St Hilda’s Collegiate School

Newsletter

No. 2 | 17 April 2014

Principal’s Message

Madrigal Choir singing at the Eucharist Service held on Monday 7 April 2014

Dear Parents, Caregivers and Friends of St Hilda’s A busy and very full term is coming to an end. We have had an ongoing focus on managing commitments this term. It has been pleasing to see students make more considered choices about school activities, and aim to do things well. Despite this, we have noticed that the girls are tired and we hope they manage to have a good break during the end of term holidays. As I write this, our tour group is preparing to leave for Vietnam. We depart on Saturday 12 April and travel via Singapore to Hanoi. We then spend just over two weeks travelling through Vietnam completing a diverse range of cultural activities. I have no doubt that the students, staff and parents participating in this tour will find the experience challenging and rewarding. Chapel life has been particularly busy recently. We have completed our ‘Stations of the Cross’ series, we have held our Easter Eucharist Service, and we have had a range of guest speakers. The highlight has been the St Hilda’s Hikoi which was developed to support Bishop Kelvin’s Te Harinui – Hikoi of Joyful News. The Hikoi was planned by our Chaplain, Gillian Townsley and Under 40-Ministry Educator, Benjamin Brock-Smith. A small group of students representing the Chapel Committee and some staff joined members of the parish and Bishop Kelvin and together we visited sites of historical significance to St Hilda’s. We started on the wharf to represent Sister Etheleen and Geraldine arriving in Dunedin. We then visited, amongst other sites, the site of the first school at 177 Leith Street, the current school and hostel, before finishing the Hikoi by laying flowers on Sister Geraldine’s grave at the Northern Cemetery. This journey was a highly valuable opportunity to visit these important sites and reflect on the work of those who came before us. St Hilda’s has a long and proud history, much of that is due to the vision and the work of the Sisters, who overcame considerable adversity in establishing St Hilda’s – a ‘school for the daughters of gentlemen’. I would like to thank Gillian and Benjamin for their work in planning and preparing this experience for all of us. Finally, I would like to acknowledge the support I have received from the school community following my decision to finish as the Principal of St Hilda’s at the end of this year. I am humbled by the kindness shown to me. Thank you so much. Melissa Bell

Principal’s Message Cultural Departments Community Coming Events

In this issue ... Page 1 4 - 5 9 - 13 14 - 15 16

Special Character Sports Prefects Board of Trustees

Page 2-4 6-9 13 15 - 16

Special Character Chaplain’s Chat

We have been very fortunate recently to have three wonderful guest speakers in Chapel. They are all really quite different to each other, but each in their own way has been able to share something of God’s love for this world and for each of us personally. The first was Trish Franklin from Anglican Family Care. AFC is that part of the Anglican Diocese which cares for the needy in our city. They have trained social workers who help people with parenting, budgeting, counselling, restorative justice and emergency care. They also go into schools and homes to assist where they can. Trish talked to us specifically about the Food Bank that they run, and we were able to see the contents of a typical food parcel. We are encouraging girls to bring items that we will present during the Eucharist Service, and which Trish will take to the Food Bank. This is a concrete way in which we, as a community, can help people right on our doorstep! Flora Mutuga-Koine was our next guest. She is from Kenya and works with the Kenya Wildlife Service as a Senior Warden and Conservation Manager, and her husband is the Worship Director at Mamlaka Hill Chapel in Nairobi. They have come to NZ with a team of twelve others at the invitation of CMS, the Church Missionary Society, which is part of the Anglican Church in NZ, as part of the celebrations of 200 years of Anglicanism in NZ. Only a week beforehand, six people were shot and killed while in church in Mombassa and just the other day a bomb blast in Nairobi itself killed and injured more people. It is good for us to have met someone from these places we hear about on the news, and to remember to pray for them. How blessed we are to be able to worship and live in peace.

New Zealander of the Year for 2013 speaking at Student Assembly

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and selfcentered.  Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.  Be kind anyway. If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway. If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you.  Be honest and sincere anyway. What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight.  Create anyway. If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.  Be happy anyway. The good you do today, will often be forgotten.  Do good anyway. Give the best you have, and it will never be enough.  Give your best anyway. In the final analysis, it is between you and God.  It was never between you and them anyway. And since we are coming up to Easter, I guess I could say that in many ways, these words sum up the story of Jesus and the gift of his life to us, the ones he loves. Dr Gillian Townsley Chaplain

Ian Grant - Senior

Our third speaker was the Senior New Zealander of the Year for 2013, the parenting “guru”, Ian Grant. From over 100 nominees, Ian was chosen to receive this award to recognise the work that he and his wife, Mary, have done for over 40 years that has positively impacted on the lives of thousands of Kiwis, particularly in the area of helping families. Way back when I was young, I remember Ian’s Sunday night TV programme for teenagers called “The Herd”, and the music events put on around NZ by Youth For Christ. So it was great to have him share some pearls of wisdom with us. What stood out for me was the poem he shared which although not written by Mother Theresa originally, has come to be associated with her: Page 2

Procession into Eucharist Service

St Hilda’s Heritage Hikoi

On Tuesday April 1st, a group of 35 Chapel Committee girls joined with the Bishop, Melissa Bell, myself and other representatives of the Anglican Diocese and our school to do a Heritage Hikoi around Dunedin. The Rt Rev Dr Kelvin Wright is currently travelling through Otago and Southland, for “Te Harinui – A Hikoi of Joyful News” which celebrates 200 years since the beginnings of the Christian gospel in New Zealand. It began on March 14, on Stewart Island, and the final destination is Kurow on April 12.

As part of this bigger event, when Bishop Kelvin was in Dunedin, we did a “mini” Hikoi around sites of historical significance to St Hilda’s. We started at the wharf and remembered the vision of Bishop Nevill and his dream in the 1890s to provide denominational schools in the diocese. He invited the Sisters of the Church from Kilburn in London to come and set up a school for girls. So in October 1895, Sisters Geraldine and Etheleen undertook the journey by ship to Dunedin. After stopping in Australia, they travelled to Dunedin on the SS Mararoa and arrived at Port Chalmers on Tuesday, December 19th.

We then walked around to the new Settlers’ Museum, Toitu, and explored the wonderful area they have about life on a boat. For two unmarried women to travel across the world, on a voyage by ship that would take months, was a huge undertaking. You would have to be really determined to undertake such a journey, and the Sisters were. They had a vision for something – education for girls – and they were determined to see it happen. Their story has been described as a “venture of faith” because it was such a risky idea. After some morning tea we walked to 177 Leith Street which is the site of the first school, a house known as The Grange. The Sisters had set about furnishing the classrooms on their meagre capital of £41 by scouring the second-hand shops. With this they also had to pay rent as well as hire staff. Although the Sisters wanted to name the school St Michael’s, Bishop Nevill insisted that it be named St Hilda’s. The school was advertised as an “English school for daughters of gentlemen,” and on February 4, 1896, there were eleven names on the roll and the school was opened with the Holy Eucharist celebrated in the chapel. Of course the school is no longer there, on its original eleven acres of land – sometime if you can, have a drive past and see if you can what is there! We then walked all the way up to Tolcarne for lunch. Here the Bishop shared with us his reason for doing the Hikoi and day girls were able to see what Tolcarne is like, and experience what it is like to walk there and back each day! St Hilda’s has had boarders since its very early days but towards the end of the 1950s the Kilburn House dormitories in Heriot Row were described as “slumlike in their squalor.” After a building appeal raised the necessary funds in 1960-61, the new buildings took shape quickly and an increased number of boarders were enrolled for 1962. However, despite assurances from the builders, Tolcarne was not ready for the new school year and so girls were given an extra week’s holiday! Not a bad way to start some would say!

We then walked down to the present site of the school. By mid-1899 the house in Leith Street was full to overflowing with 61 pupils. Bishop Nevill came to the rescue by acquiring a beautiful home called Mahinga just above Heriot Row, on the corner of Cobden Street. The school moved in at the end of 1899, and the new century began with a roll of 80 pupils. More property was bought in Heriot Row (1917) and on Royal Terrace (1925). Over the years there were many changes to the school; more properties were bought in Royal Terrace and old buildings were demolished and replaced with more modern ones. The financial strain of such building projects, as well as the need to pay staff salaries, resulted in the signing of the Deed of Integration in 1979 and although a new era of St Hilda’s began, the special character of the school remained an integral part of this Deed.

After this stop, we walked down to All Saints church. Here the Rev Michael Wallace pointed out the many connections between St Hilda’s and this parish. One connection involves the stained glass windows. At the closing service at the end of 1913, a stained glass window given in memory of an Old Girl, Hilda Russell, was unveiled. Then in 1972, the old Chapel and Hall were demolished to make way for a new classroom block (Nevill Building) which was opened in October 1973. The Chapel-Hall extension was begun in 1974 and completed in 1975. At some point in this process of demolition and rebuilding, the stained glass window of St Hilda ended up at All Saints, and there are now two of these windows – one at All Saints and one in the new chapel at St Hilda’s. The mystery of exactly what led to this duplication of windows is still unresolved.

At All Saints Church

After a quick afternoon tea at All Saints, we walked to our final destination, Northern Cemetery, to visit the grave of Sister Geraldine. Sister Geraldine arrived in Dunedin in 1895 and was the first headmistress of St Hilda’s until her death in 1908.

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During her time in Dunedin she always spoke of her “dear girls.” She was a gentle woman with a sweet kindly nature which made her a friend to all. Her lively interest in everything around her and her desire to do the best for the school and everyone in it was obvious to all. However, her health was poor and she died suddenly on July 8, 1908 at the age of 47. Her death was a tremendous shock to everyone. Her funeral was held in the school chapel and was attended by girls, parents, friends and the clergy. She was buried in the Northern Cemetery and the Old Girls and staff donated the headstone. The Sacristans placed some blue and white flowers on her grave and we all sang, “Our God is an Awesome God.” The Bishop then closed our Hikoi with prayer, giving thanks for the vision and commitment of those, such as Sister Geraldine, who had started our school, and who throughout the years have continued to make this place what it is today.

Cultural Arts Corner Performing Arts Productions

The senior Performing Arts classes have performed their biggest assessment of the year entitled “Perform a role”. Year 11 presented “Alice in Wonderland” to a ‘full house’ who really appreciated the energy, focus and interpretation of this talented group of students. Year 7 and 8 were lucky enough to see the last dress rehearsal during the day. This production appealed to all age groups. People laughed a lot at this pun-filled play and the imagined horror of the executioner chopping everyone’s head off to please the Queen! A huge thank you to Jess Smales for the excellent lighting and Tessa Woodhouse for operating the sound.

Year 11 “Alice in Wonderland”

Lauren MacColl placing flowers on the grave of Sister Geraldine with Maddy McAllister looking on.

Year 12 and 13 presented “2B or not 2B” by Sarah Delahunty to very receptive audiences. This play was written for teenagers and the teenagers in the audience certainly enjoyed the dark humour in this challenging ensemble piece. The performers were brilliant to watch and well supported by Zoe Richards’ lighting design, Nan Li’s sound effects and Sherry Li’s outstanding make up artistry.

Some thoughts from girls who came along on the Hikoi: “The Hikoi was fantastic! I loved experiencing the boat and what it would be like for Sister Etheleen and Sister Geraldine coming to New Zealand.” “Also it was interesting seeing where the first site of St Hilda’s was, now a taxi stand.” “It was sad seeing Sister Geraldine’s grave.” “Tolcarne had a really nice view and they had really good food!” “It was a great experience and really interesting to see the history of St Hilda’s.” Dr Gillian Towsley Chaplain Page 4

Year 12 & 13 “2B or not 2B”

We are grateful to the teachers, students, family and friends who came along and made these evenings have wonderful performance tension. Mr Huggett has taken brilliant photos of the performers in action so we are exceptionally grateful for this priceless documentation too.

Performing Arts students are making the most of “Peninsula” by Gary Henderson (currently on at the Fortune Theatre). This is quite possibly the best NZ play ever written. Some of our students are even seeing the performance twice, to boost the depth of their insights for the end of year external examination questions. We are lucky enough to have the whole cast and production crew answer questions in a forum after both shows we are seeing AND we have Patrick Davies (director) coming in to school to do a practical workshop with our girls. I highly recommend this show to all audiences, even though it is set in 1964 Banks Peninsula, Christchurch, the play has themes which transcend time, so any age group would appreciate this gem of a play.

Arts Assembly Photos

Cameron Taylor

Rachel McMillan TIC Performing Arts

Music

Sings Hilda and Madrigal rehearsals are well underway with preparation for “The Big Sing”. Well done to all students who have shown commitment and diligence in learning their parts in their own time to make rehearsals much more efficient. Madrigal has had the extra task of preparing music for the Easter service, and are pleased to have a couple of new pieces added to their repertoire. The Orchestra has been extremely productive with what has been achieved this term. With Chamber Music looming, orchestra rehearsal time will be sacrificed to accommodate time to work on their pieces. The Chamber Music Contest takes place on the 14/15 June in Marama Hall at the University of Otago. We have eight groups entered. It is important that all the instrumentalists involved spend time not only in their groups, but individually to make sure they give a convincing performance at the competition.

Jane Hendry

Isabella Aldrich , Lily Hornal and Tamara Mason Junior Shakespeare Group

Production

The production rehearsals have miraculously continued with so many distractions and other happenings reducing the numbers attending rehearsals. This is a big test of how well students can catch up on vital rehearsals, including chorus singing, blocking, and choreography. Look out for ticket sales - it will be a great show. Next term is going to be full on! Michael Grant TIC Music

21SEVEN Rock Group

Arts Assembly Thanks also to Arts Prefects, Amy Wright and Polly Tenci for organising such a varied programme for the Term 1 Arts Assembly. These assemblies showcase some of the talent that we have here at St Hilda’s, and all the girls who performed are to be thanked for their involvement. Your performances were much appreciated by the whole school. Well done. John Huggett Arts Department

Year 11 & 12 Dance Group Page 5

Sports

South Island Secondary Schools’ Athletics Champs 5 and 6 April - Timaru

Athletics Otago/Southland Secondary Schools’ Athletics Championships 15 March 2014 - Surrey Park, Invercargill

The St Hilda’s Team had 14 girls qualify and travel to this event where some amazing results were recorded.

St Hilda’s had a team of 21 competing, 16 of whom qualified for the South Island Championships by gaining a top 5 position.

Caitlyn George - 1st in Under 16 100m and 200m. Caitlyn broke the 100m record and equalled the 200m record. Danica Davies

3rd

St Hilda’s won 12 individual titles and 3 relays. Libby Jones 1st Senior Discus Throw 1st Shot Put 1st Hammer Meg McKay 1st Senior High Jump and 800m Danica Davies 1st Senior Hurdles Caitlyn George 1st Under 16 100m 1st Under 16 200m Caitlin Kenny 1st Under 16 High Jump Erin O’Brien 1st Open Walk Joccoaa Palmer 1st Under 15 200m Mikayla Thorn 1st Under 15 High Jump The Under 15 relay team of Mariah Nelson, Joccoaa Palmer, Leonie Palmer and Mikayla Thorn won in record time.

Under 19 Hurdles

Danica Davies

Meg McKay

1st 1st

Under 19 800m High Jump

The Under 16 relay team of Caitlin Kenny, Hayley Shallard, Aria Park and Caitlyn George also won in record time. The team of Hayley Shallard, Aria Park, Caitlyn George and Meg McKay won the Open Girls 4 X 400m title Other placings Senior Girls: Danica Davies 2nd 2nd 2nd Libby Jones 3rd Meg McKay 3rd Under 16: Melina Palmer 2nd Under 15: Leonie Palmer Joccoaa Palmer Under 14: Beryn Abbot

2rd 2nd 3rd 3rd 3rd 3rd

Discus Throw Shot Put Javelin Javelin 400m Hammer Throw 100m Long Jump 200m Triple Jump 100m

Meg McKay





Discus Throw

Cecillia Crooks and Olivia O’Neill also qualified for the South Island Championships in Timaru on April 5th and 6th

Erin O’Brien Caity Kenny Libby Jones Mikayla Thorn Leonie Palmer Joccoaa Palmer

1st 1st 2nd 2nd 3rd 3rd 4th 2nd 4th 3rd 5th

2000m Open Walk Under 16 High Jump Under 19 Hammer Discus Shotput Under 15 Triple Jump High Jump Under 15 200m 100m Under 15 100m 200m

The Under 16 Relay team of Caity Kenny, Hayley Shallard, Aria Park and Caitlyn George - 2nd in Under 16 100m Relay. . Page 6

The Open 4 x 400m Relay team of Hayley Shallard, Aria Park, Caitlyn George and Meg Mckay  - 1st.

The Under 15 Relay team of Miriah Nelson, Leonie Palmer, Joccoaa Palmer and Mikayla Thorn - 1st in Under 15 4 x 100m Relay.

openers Polly Inglis (37 not out) and Bella James (29 not out), secured victory in the 12th over. Earlier, Molly Johnson with 3 for 9 and Sarah Wyber with 3 for 15 had bowled very tightly and accurately. In the final, a week later against Otago Girls’, St. Hilda’s was again dominant, winning by 10 wickets. Sarah Wyber with 3 for 8 and Aisling Beamish with 3 for 6, including a hat trick, restricted Otago Girls’ to 51 all out. Again Polly and Bella were untroubled reaching the total in the 8th over.

Under 15 Relay Team

Congratulations to the team for this amazing effort by the girls, resulting in St Hilda’s being the 5th best school in the South Island on the Medal Count, and the top girls’ school.

Basketball

Congratulations to Nicole Ruske for being selected in the NZ Under 16 Basketball Team to compete at the Australian Under 16 State Championships and Aleisha Ruske for being selected in the NZ Under 18 Basketball Team.

Cricket

Aisling Beamish, Polly Inglis and Olivia Gain with awards

This means the team will travel to Palmerston North endeavouring to do one better than its runner-up place at last year’s nationals. Captain, Polly Inglis, an outstanding schoolgirl cricketer made the Otago Under 21 team and was a key player in the successful Otago Sparks Women’s Team that won the domestic One Day final against Auckland in January. Polly was also the best batsman at last year’s NZCT finals. Congratulations to Bella James, Molly Johnson, Biddy Hoskin and Olivia Gain for their inclusion in the Otago Under 15 team. Neil Rosenberg TIC Cricket

Heptathlon

Congratulations to Danica Davies for winning a Bronze Medal at the National Under 18 Heptathlon Event in February. 1st XI has qualified for its fifth consecutive NZCT New Zealand Secondary Schoolgirls’ Finals

Highlanders visit to St Hilda’s

The 2014 cricket season has been very productive for St Hilda’s with three teams being entered in national and local competitions. The Year 7 and 8 Team competed in three rounds of the Active Post NZ Cricket Competition making it through to the semifinal where it lost to the eventual Otago-Southland winners, Tahuna Intermediate. The 1st XI has qualified for its fifth consecutive NZCT New Zealand Secondary Schoolgirls’ Finals in Palmerston North in December where it will represent the Otago-Southland region. The team beat Blue Mountain College in the semi final in Tapanui by 10 wickets. Chasing 74 set by Blue Mountain,

Aaron Smith, Kane Hames, Jarrad Hoeata, Lima Sapoanga, Nasi Manu and Trent Renata were greeted to St Hilda’s by a small crowd of girls gathered outside the school office and as they walked through the corridors at peak rush hour, the Page 7

excitement shown by the girls wasn’t particularly subtle. Our rugby, touch and Year 13 PE girls were very lucky to have the opportunity to ask some questions about their individual journeys to becoming professional athletes which was inspirational and amusing at the same time. It was extremely valuable to hear from such accomplished athletes and the girls made the most of the opportunity to ask questions. The rugby and touch girls then went out to the field to get some tips from the boys and to show off their skills, especially with tackle bags. This ended in a game of touch where the Highlanders had their turn to show us some of their skills.

The Under 15 Eight of Lili Sabonadiere, Brieana Shea, Stella Keown, Josie Cook, Kate Edwards, Georgia Hay, Claudia Maker, Gabby Hunter and Mia Knott came 7th in the A final, the Under 15 Quad came 8th in their A Final, the team consisting of Claudia Maker, Josie Cook, Kate Edwards, Gabby Hunter and Mia Knott. Other A final results were the Under 17 Double of Eliza Adams and Zoe Sabonadiere gaining 6th place, and Lili Sabondiere and Brie Shea coming 8th in the A final of the Under15 Double. B Final results were the Under 18 Double gaining 7th in their final, and the Under 15 Four gaining 4th place. Eliza Adams, in the Under 17 Single, came a credible 7th in the B final and the Under 18 Pair gained 3rd place in a sprint finish. Also congratulations to Mia Knott who has gained a trial for the South Island Under 18 team for coxing and will travel to Twizel during Easter to trial. A big thanks to the coaching staff of Lauren Farnden and Gina Persico, Alan West, and the parents whose support helped make this week so successful. Courtney Shea Rowing Squad

Swimming The visit was exciting and inspirational and provided the girls with sporting role models as well as motivation to take their chosen sport to the next level. The girls also came away with a signed poster and some selfies which I’m sure they will treasure for weeks to come!  Kate Holden Sports Prefect

Rowing Maadi Cup A St Hilda’s squad of 19 recently travelled to Twizel to compete in the rowing nationals, often referred to as the Maadi Cup. This event had over 2000 rowers racing, being one of the biggest sporting events in the southern hemisphere for high school students with some events having up to 60 entries.

Congratulations to the following girls who represented St Hilda’s and were placed at the Otago Secondary Schools’ Swimming Champs recently: Aleisha Ruske - 1st in Women’s 15 and Over 50m Backstroke, 50m Butterfly, 50 Freestyle, 2nd in 50m Breaststroke. Tink Brinsley-Turner - 3rd in Women’s 15 and Over 50m Breaststroke Cecilia Crooks - 2nd in Women’s 14 and Under 50m backstroke, 50m Freestyle Olivia Gold. 2nd in Women’s 15 and Over 50m Butterfly, 50m Backstroke 50m Freestyle, 1st in 50m Breaststroke. The Relay Team of Cecilia Crooks, Aleisha Ruske, Olivia Gold and Nicole Ruske were placed 1st in the 200m Medley and 200m Freestyle relays. The Relay Team of Anna Lindsay, Mariette Devereux, Tink Brinsley-Turner and Lulu Schneiders were placed 3rd in the 200m Medley and 200m Freestyle Relays.

Tennis

Our girls did extremely well, considering the high calibre of rowers from all over the country, making four A Finals, four B Finals, two C and one E. Page 8

At the Tennis Otago Senior Prizegiving, Jessie Stevenson was awarded the trophy for the ‘Most Valuable Premier Woman player in Otago’ for the 2013/14 season, and Meg Timu was awarded the ‘Most Improved Senior Woman’ medal.  These were outstanding achievements as they were the only two senior female awards given and both went to St Hilda’s students, and furthermore, these awards covered all ages, not just school students.   This recognition was a reward for all the hard work put in by the two outstanding players. Congratulations.

Touch

Recently, the St Hilda’s Touch Team played in the South Island Touch Tournament. After a first up loss, they managed to draw one game and win the other five to finish 5th at the tournament.

Volleyball

The Senior A Volleyball team had an excellent weekend in the Otago/Southland Championships. They played four games in pool play beating OGHS B 3 - 0, Mt Aspiring 3 - 1, LPHS 3 - 0 and losing to Bayfield 1 - 3. The team then moved on as top in their group to play the final against OGHS A. In a closely contested game the team came out strong winning the first set convincingly. There was little to separate the two teams over the next three sets, each of them being decided by two points. It was 2 - 2 going into the deciding fifth set. Polly Inglis played a huge role, serving well, to take St Hilda’s to a 7 - 0 lead at the start of the fifth set. After this, the team had no problem in winning the final set 15 - 8 for a 3 - 2 victory. This is now two years in a row for St Hilda’s winning the Otago/Southland Championships.

Waterpolo

A massive thanks to both Kate Cotter for being team manager, and Charlotte White for being an awesome coach. We couldn’t have done it without either of them. Anna Lindsay and Charlotte Cotter Waterpolo Team Congratulations to: Abbey Johnston and Paige Thomson, members of the Otago Under15 Mixed Touch Team who have been selected in the New Zealand Under15 Mixed Touch Team. Libby van Harselaar who has been selected in the New Zealand Under 15 Waterpolo Team.    Sophie Coutts who has been selected in the New Zealand Rhythmic Gymnastic Team. Laura McKenzie who has been named in the NZ U19 Women’s Touch Squad. Esther Fogarty who won a Gold Medal last Weekend at the NZ IRB Nationals.

Departments Careers, STAR and Gateway

The beginning of the term has seen six senior students begin their Gateway programme. This programme is intended to strengthen pathways for students from school to further education and training or employment. Students undertake structured workplace learning across a range of industries and businesses within Dunedin, while continuing to study at school.

Senior A Waterpolo team

On March 23 the St Hilda’s Senior A waterpolo team travelled to Invercargill to compete in the South Island Secondary Schools’ Waterpolo Tournament. We had the perfect start with an easy game against James Hargest which we won 13-3. The next day we played Otago Girls’ and won 10-5. Our biggest pool game was against Burnside HS. It was an intense game with the girls giving everything. We came away with a 3-2 win and were therefore top in our pool. We had an easy quarter final the next day against Christchurch Girls’ followed by another intense game against Rangi Ruru in the semi finals. After a shaky start we found our rhythm and played strongly to win 9-4. This guaranteed us a medal. We tried so hard to beat Burnside again, but they had stepped up their game and had the underdog drive on their side. It was a great game with both teams playing extremely well, with Burnisde eventually winning 4-3. But despite this loss we came home proud of our achievements and having a huge goal to get the gold medal next year.

This year we are fortunate to have supported placements for Early Childhood Education at Kelsey Yaralla, Roslyn and Mornington Kindergartens. Other placements are being finalised with Otago Polytechnic for event and project management to support a student undertaking Business Studies, and Sport Otago’s health based programmes to support a student undertaking Sport Training and Development studies. As Year 13 students begin to turn their thoughts to plans beyond life at St Hilda’s, Tertiary Liaison visits are underway by the main tertiary providers. We have enjoyed presentations from University of Otago, University of Auckland and Massey University, with Otago Polytechnic, Canterbury and Lincoln Universities booked before the end of Term 1. Victoria University will visit early in Term 2. These tertiary providers will return in Term 3 to assist students with 1:1 course planning. Early Term 2 will also see Year 13 students attending Tertiary Information Day on Monday 12 May. As this is within the tertiary semester, it allows Year 13 students the opportunity to experience the uniqueness of the Otago tertiary providers’ campuses, to attend special presentations and tours, along with visits to Residential Colleges. Year 13 students are not required to attend school on this day, and will be issued with a comprehensive programme and campus map, enabling them to plan their day for Page 9

maximum benefit. Further information can be obtained from the following link: http://www.otago.ac.nz/about/open_days.html Coming up quickly after the holiday break is the Otago Careers Festival, being run over the month of May 2014. The full programme of events being held throughout the Otago region can be found at www.otagocareersfestival. co.nz Once again STAR funding is providing opportunities through Short Courses for senior students to obtain skills and experiences in Defensive Driving and First Aid. Students are encouraged to keep an eye on the Daily Notices for new signup opportunities. Some senior students are being supported to undertake full year courses by distance in Equine and Agricultural studies. This busy term has also seen Year 11 students attending the Drive2Survive Expo, held at the Edgar Centre for Year 11 students throughout the region. This is an intense morning where students moved around a series of workshops investigating such topics as the Physics of Car Crashes. It is a poignant reminder to the students of the power of a motor vehicle. They heard from Emergency Department workers, the Police, and other key people who become involved when crashes take place. The session finished with a survivor retelling their personal story. This is not the sort of event you would say you enjoyed, but was filled with worthwhile information about keeping our young people safe on the roads. The event is supported by SADD – Students Against Drink Driving, and further information can be gained from their website http://www.sadd.org.nz/

Indian dance presentation at Student Assembly

A huge thank you to all of the responses we have had from you regarding hosting students. Our homestay database is looking very healthy and I know that we have fantastic homes in which to place our girls. If you’re interested in being a homestay, but haven’t yet had a chance to get in touch with us, please do! We hope you all enjoy a relaxing break over the school holidays, while we are enjoying Queenstown with our group of short-term Thai students.

Ichikawa Visit

Sharon Ritchie Careers/STAR/Gateway Co-ordinator

International Department

Holly Armstrong and Shania Scott with Indian visitors

We have been a busy department over the last two months. We have had a fantastic group of Indian students here for two weeks, a delightful group of Japanese students also here for two weeks and we also welcomed in a lovely little group of six Year 9 Thai students for nine weeks. Both our Indian and Japanese groups left having experienced Dunedin and St Hilda’s at their best. They saw and did many things and the success of the visit is thanks to the homestay families, who so generously opened their doors to these girls. Whilst New Zealand is exceptionally different to both India and Japan, the girls all thoroughly enjoyed their experiences and the departure tears were enough to demonstrate their reluctance to leave. Page 10

On Sunday, March 16, St Hilda’s Collegiate School and John McGlashan College welcomed 40 students and three staff from our sister school in Tokyo, Ichikawa Gakuen High School. This two week programme has been running for several years now and every year it always amazes me how welcoming our girls and their families are, as well as how quickly tight friendships are forged. This year was no different to any other in that the students were kept very busy with Baldwin Street, farm visits, penguins, as well as the all important ESOL lessons. In addition to all of these activities the students also participated in an elective programme where they chose to spend a day working within the science, social science or music area. The farewell ceremony on Friday 28 March demonstrated how much was learnt over their time here, and as well as that we were witness to Ichikawa’s first ever kapa haka performance. Old girl, Kate Ellsion, and some very keen helpers from the St Hilda’s kapa haka group should be proud of the amazing performances put on. We are always grateful for the amazing families who open their homes to these students and appreciate the kindness and generosity extended to them. Please let us know if you are interested in hosting for the Ichikawa visit next year. Kirstyn Mawdsley Director of International Students

Languages Department

In March the Languages Department reported to the Board on achievement levels for 2013 and the many exciting developments and initiatives in our department. We are happy to report that in 2013 we gained many Merit and Excellence endorsements across all levels. We also reported on the successful introduction of Spanish over the last two years. This year is the first year that we have Year 11 Spanish and it is exciting to plan ahead to Year 12 and 13 Spanish in the future. We also reported on our department philosophy which is to make language classes as creative and varied as possible and to cater for a variety of learning styles within our classes. We aim to give students a large amount of choice in their learning and we encourage languages as a subject for all levels and abilities and we try to encourage students to speak in the language that they are learning as much as possible. As reported in the last newsletter, Harriet Keown has been selected as a Young Ambassador to represent New Zealand in France as part of the WW1 commemorations. As part of this experience, Harriet must complete an ongoing research project throughout the year. You can read updates on her research through the “Shared Histories” website which has blog entries from all the Young Ambassadors. Please feel free to check out this website and follow Harriet’s progress: www.sharedhistories.com. Languages students have been out and about recently. Senior French students were lucky to have the opportunity to attend a film at the French Film festival held at the Rialto. This was enjoyed by all students who attended. ESOL students are looking forward to a day trip to Araiteuru Marae where they will spend the day and learn about many different aspects of Maori culture. Year 10 French and Spanish students are also looking forward to a combined French and Spanish lunch at the end of the term. We look forward to reporting back on these events in the next newsletter. Happy easter, felices fiestas, feliz Pascua! Philippa Kruger HOD Languages

Physical Education and Health Department Year 12 Abel Tasman Report

tramping and kayaking and then swapping mid week. It’s a trip that tests group dynamics and the girls are expected to write journal entries every day reflecting on this aspect of the trip. They were also required to organise their own tents, gear and food to last for the week which meant having to think about quantity as well as quality. As a result, Two Minute Noodles and rice dishes were very popular. We were very lucky with the weather, especially for the kayaking, with mainly tail winds during the week. I would like to thank the girls for being so positive and helpful and for making the most of the opportunities offered. Thanks also to fellow teacher, Ruth Allott, the parent helpers, Lynne Burns and Gordy Wyber, the sea kayaking guides, Torrey and Rob, and bus driver John Foote for making the trip such a success. Bee Bradfield TIC Year 12 Abel Trasman Trip

Year 13 Murchison Report

The Year 13 PE class recently completed a one week white water kayaking experience in Murchison. The NZ Kayak School is the country’s premiere training facility for white water kayaking and the instructors are some of the world’s best. The trip challenges the girls on many levels as the sport is very demanding and also has an element of fear associated with it. Many of the girls took swims early in the week, but to their credit bounced back to master many skills on the Buller River. The girls were fantastic and worked very hard in the changeable weather and water conditions. Their results were fantastic for this difficult assessment and they can be very proud of their efforts. This trip is the highlight of the PE calendar and an experience I, and no doubt the girls, would recommend for anyone. Alan West HOD PE Department

The Year 12 Physical Education class spent an amazing week in early March tramping and sea kayaking in the Abel Tasman National Park. The girls were split into two, with groups

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Science Department Biology Field Trips Biology in the Wild. Report of recent field trips by Year 12 and Year 13 Biology classes. March is always a busy month for Biology as we take advantage of the last of the good weather to investigate some of the amazing animals and ecosystems of the Otago coast. Year 12 Biology starts the year with two internal assessments based on marine animals and ecosystems. A trip to the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre, on March 18, allowed students to see many marine organisms up close and to benefit from the vast knowledge of NZMSC educators, Steve Cutler and Dr Jean McKinnon. This trip involved both laboratory work and a survey of the organisms on the rocky shore of the Otago Harbour. We are very fortunate to have such an excellent facility so close to our school. On March 31 the Year 12 Biology class headed to Blueskin Bay to complete shore transects to count and identify the organisms of the intertidal mudflats. The students were focused and incredibly enthusiastic about counting the various clams, crabs, worms and shellfish they found in each quadrat. The sampling conditions were ideal and over 40 species were counted and identified. Cockles and small top shells were the most numerous, with some quadrats containing over 500 of each! An octopus was one of the more surprising animals we found. At school, students had the task of identifying species found and researching how each species interacts to create the population distribution patterns observed. This is always an interesting field trip as students learn skills used by many ecologists, resource managers and conservationists. We were joined by two trainees from the College of Education, Daniel Bleckinger and Robyn Warbuton. Special thanks go out to Helen Scott, Sandra Deans and Barbara Prince, who gave their assistance in the field.

Year 12 Biology at the Marine Studies Centre

The Year 13 class had an intensive day on the Otago Peninsula viewing the behaviour of royal albatross, Stewart Island and spotted shags, and penguins. The albatross put on a great display for us, feeding their chicks and soaring right past the viewing window. We were able to see behaviours Page 12

that reinforce bonds between parent bird and chick, how the crossbill feeding occurs and how a chick spends its day after the post guard phase of the life cycle. Observation of the anatomy of the wing of the adult birds enabled us to understand how the birds travel up to 1000 km in the search for food for the chick without the expenditure of too much energy (they glide). The young albatross when they first leave Taiaroa Head may not return to dry land for up to seven years, spending all of this time circumnavigating the Southern Ocean. We saw recent data using the latest tracking devices that has given some answers as to what the birds are doing during this extended period at sea.

Harriet George and Simone Ferguson checking out the identity of birds from the Monarch.

A trip on the Monarch allowed us to get a view of the three main bird colonies from the ocean. We observed several albatross skimming over the waves in search of food using the tiny updrafts that they exploit to maintain their gliding-like flight. Gauging the biodiversity and its interactions is never easy, but this was especially evident with the appearance of a little blue penguin, many fur seals, terns etc during this voyage. The day ended at Penguin Place where the moulting Yellow eyed penguins looked a little worse for wear. They gave us a fascinating insight into the physiological changes these birds must go through each year to stay warm and waterproof in the freezing Southern Ocean. We also had a sobering look at the penguin hospital where starving penguins are being nursed back to health before release into the wild. Although not confirmed, it is likely overfishing and climate change have depleted the penguins’ food source and both chicks and adult birds have been badly affected this year. While the Yellow eyed is a solitary penguin and usually difficult to view we were able to see many, a rare privilege. The knowledgeable educators at each venue gave us insight into current research results and techniques. Of particular relevance to our studies were the migration patterns of the albatross, courtship behaviours and the difficulty of raising young in the wild. Each venue increased our understanding of the challenges and conservations issues surrounding these birds. The New Zealand Marine Studies Centre at Portobello, in the following week, enabled the girls to have a “hands on”

experience with a range of marine animals, this time within the confines of a research laboratory. Each small student group investigated one aspect of an organism’s behaviour, in relation to a biotic or abiotic factor. Results of these investigations were shared on return to school via google docs. In the afternoon we were able to view and touch a range of animals and work out their escape strategies from predators, their reproductive strategies and other symbiotic relationships they have with animals within their habitat. Finally we looked specifically at biological clocks and three relatively simple but effective techniques that have been used to gather data on animal activity patterns in a marine environment. Of special interest were the results of Barbara Williams, an early scientist at Portobello. Her time lapse data is as relevant today as it was in the 1960’s and the girls were able to make similar observations to those Barbara made over 50 years ago.

Prefects

2014 Prefects’ Profiles

I was six, and last year passed a St Cecilia Performance Diploma. although, as the girls know very well, this does not mean I can play “Lead Me Lord” in chapel without messing it up!.  For the last few years I have been working towards my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, which has taken me on many amazing tramps with my fellow Duke of Ed’ers and given me an incentive to keep pursuing a range of different co-curricular activities. Next year I plan to attend the University of Auckland to study a Bachelor of Arts.  I also want to keep up my French, so am interested in spending a university semester on an exchange in Paris.  In the future I want to work in the publishing industry, ultimately as a magazine editor in New York City (in my wildest dreams).  This year, Claudia and I want to help the St Hilda’s girls see that learning is awesome!  School is cool!  We want to promote and encourage academic success, and to help everyone make the most of our top level school environment.  I am really looking forward to 2014, and am excited to face the challenges ahead with the rest of the amazing prefect team!

Claudia Paterson

Harriet Keown, Head Girl & Claudia Peterson, Deputy Head Girl

Harriet Keown

Four years ago, I moved from the very small community of Raes Junction to Tolcarne and St Hilda’s.  Although it was a hard decision at the time (I very nearly didn’t come), I can assure you that I have never looked back.  At first it was a bit of a culture shock coming from a small country school and living among sheep, cows and lots of space, to a bustling Dunedin and living with 139 other girls in close proximity.  However, I very quickly adjusted to city life, and can now say (although slightly regretfully) that I am a converted city gal.  My favourite thing about being a St Hilda’s girl is definitely the countless opportunities we are offered, especially within the school curriculum.  I love all my subjects this year, especially History, French and English. No matter how geeky it sounds, I get very excited about coming to school each day to learn more and more! Crammed around my academic studies, I have played for the Senior A netball team for the last three years, as well as a couple of Dunedin teams along the way.  Last year I also dabbled in a bit of social basketball for the very enthusiastic ‘Hoops, We Did It Again’ team, until a fateful mid-season game when I sprained my ankle, thus ending both my netball season and basketball career.  I have also been part of the St Hilda’s athletics and harriers teams since Year 9, and have been lucky enough to travel to many different events around New Zealand with these teams.  I have played the piano since

I’m Claudia Paterson and I am Deputy Head Girl this year at St Hilda’s. I have been at St Hilda’s since Year 7, and I have thoroughly enjoyed every year that I’ve spent here! There are lots of awesome opportunities that you can partake in at St Hilda’s, and while it is impossible to do them all, I think it is important to take advantage of as many opportunities as you can. I have been rowing for St Hilda’s since Year 9 and I just finished up my fourth season of the sport. Rowing has been extremely beneficial for me as it has taught me vital time-management and discipline skills that I continue to use in all aspects of my life. I am also a member of the St Hilda’s Amnesty International group. I really like to be involved in Amnesty because it helps you gain a greater understanding of the world whilst improving the world (even if it’s ever so slightly!) at the same time. But of course, the most important thing at school are your academic studies. I really enjoy learning - I have a particular passion for the sciences but I always strive to do my best in all of my subjects. I am perhaps one of the few people that actually admits to having fun when I study, although I’m sure everyone secretly has a bit of fun whilst studying! My number one tip for any girls wanting to do well is to become interested in what you are learning, as it really helps you to understand it if you genuinely want to know about it! For me, the best thing about learning is that there is always more to learn, and the more knowledge you have, the more you start to see links between things. Next year, I am planning to do either Health Sciences at the University of Otago or Engineering at the University of Auckland. But for the moment, I am focused on giving the school 100% in my last year. I have a great partnership with Harriet, the Head Girl, as well as the rest of the Prefect group and we are going to do our best to implement all of the great ideas that we have! Term One has been extremely hectic but it has been most rewarding at the same time. I am honoured to have been put into my role and I can’t wait to work even harder to make the most of my final year. I daresay next term will be even busier, but it is certainly a challenge that we are all ready for! Page 13

Community Blood Bank

The PFA will continue to meet monthly on the second Tuesday in the month at 7.30 pm in the staffroom. Anyone wishing to join the PFA is more than welcome. Wishing you and your families an enjoyable Easter. Barbara Bridger PFA President

Libby Jones donating blood

The school has built up a very good relationship with NZBLOOD over the past few years and last week, 28 students made it through the rigorous screening process and gave blood at the Edgar Centre. This is a great result and Leita Mackay from the Blood Service wrote: “Your girls were all very organised, very well mannered and sensible. They were a credit to St Hilda’s and a pleasure to have donating. I have no doubt many will continue to donate and spread the word for us as well. The breakfast you held was a great idea, so thanks again to all who contributed to the organising and providing for this. In total we had 28 girls who donated, meaning St Hilda’s pupils potentially saved 84 lives yesterday…a great effort” Special thanks to Jordain Adams and her trusty crew of Harriet Burdon, Lauren Hay, Kate Holden and Bailey Sutherland who arranged and prepared the very successful cooked breakfast for the donor students at 8am in the morning before they donated blood. Special mention must be made of Alice Back (Year 13) who donated for the third time. Well done Alice. We look forward to continuing this strong relationship with the Blood Service next year and thanks to everyone who signed up. Neil Rosenberg The Blood Man!

Parents’ and Friends’ Association The main focus of the PFA since our last update has been this year’s fair. It was a stunning day for a fair and there were many highlights from the day. The proceeds from the fair will go towards upgrading classroom furniture. The PFA this term has provided the funds to enable the purchase of the new Kapa Haka uniforms, which were on show at the Meet the Teachers’ Wine and Cheese evening recently and also for the purchase of a new moveable dance floor for use in Whitby Hall. Page 14

Board

of

Trustees

The Board of Trustees met on Thursday 20th March 2014.

Departmental Presentation

During the March meeting the Board received a presentation from Philippa Kruger, HOD Languages. Philippa profiled staff in her department highlighting their areas of expertise. An outline of the department’s philosophy was provided relating to the delivery of the curriculum to ensure active engagement of students. Philippa displayed a video to the meeting of students speaking in French and Spanish. The video informed the Board of what students enjoyed about learning a foreign language and showcased language classes in action. Philippa explained the method of teaching used that provides students with the confidence to participate speaking a foreign language in class. An essential part of any language course is immersing the students in the culture of the countries as this provides students with a deeper understanding of the language. It was evident from Philippa’s presentation that the use of technology has had a positive impact for students’ learning in her department. Philippa reported on students’ NCEA achievement for 2013 and spoke to department strategies being implemented to raise the endorsement levels in the Excellence band. Melissa Bell informed the Board that she has had several discussions regarding NCEA Scholarship and advised that many of those who gain scholarships are native speakers, which in the past has discouraged our students from registering for Scholarship. Philippa spoke to the meeting of an alternative external examination that students could sit if they wanted to study at university in a French speaking country. 2014 will see Spanish being taught for the third year at the school and students this year will be able to obtain a NCEA accreditation in Spanish for the first time. 2014 will also be the last year for the teaching of the Japanese language.

St Hilda’s Amnesty International Group The St Hilda’s Amnesty International Group has had a successful Term One with an increase in new members. Here is a photo of the recent baking session for Women’s Refuge. Girls are welcome to join the St Hilda’s Amnesty Group on Tuesday lunchtimes in Room 200.

Students are able to travel on exchange programmes. School trips to New Caledonia for senior students have taken place in the past. Research into trips for students studying French and Spanish are presently taking place with a view to gaining approval from the Board for the trips to take place in 2015.

Reports from the Principal and Student Trustee

The Principal’s report informed the Board of St Hilda’s Collegiate School being designated as an Apple Distinguished School. This award recognises innovation in teaching and learning, using technology.

Claudia Paterson Amnesty Group

Each staff member is required to undergo annual performance appraisals. Melissa provided an overview of the revised appraisal documentation. The appraisal process requires staff to carry out a self-appraisal prior to their formal appraisal. Students’ evaluations form part of the appraisal process. Staff are encouraged to undertake ongoing professional development and set personal professional goals. An update was provided on progress against strategic focus points. Page 15

The Student Trustee reported on the outstanding sporting and cultural achievements.

Self-Review

The Board adopted the Timetabling Procedures, which had been revised in consultation with staff.

General

The Board received several annual reports. These related to the expenditure of tagged funds received, 2013 Analysis of Variance, 2014 Goals and Targets and 2014 Charter.

Coming Events

Updated regularly on the Parent Portal site www.shcs.school.nz/parents

May Thursday 1 Monday 5 Wednesday 7 Monday 12

Vietnam Trip return Term 2 begins St Hilda’s Cross Country in the afternoon at John McGlashan grounds Tertiary Open Day - Year 13 students only Logan Park Road Race Year 13 Parents’ Seminar 7:00 pm in the Library Year 10 Science Quiz 7:00 pm in the Library Thai Student Farewell evening in the Library

The next Board meeting following this newsletter is scheduled for 29th May 2014 in the Library at 5:30 pm. Members of the school community are welcome to attend Board meetings.

Tuesday 13

Nicola Williams Chair, Board of Trustees

Friday 16

Diary This ... ... ... Sports Coaches Evening

Monday 19

Country Visits Ranfurly and Arrowtown

Tuesday 20

Country Visits - Wanaka King’s Road Race

Wednesday 21

Country Visits West Otago and Southland

An important Sports Coaches Evening is to be held on Thursday 8th of May, at 5:30pm in the Library. We expect all adult and student coaches to attend. This meeting is an opportunity to introduce the St Hilda’s sporting ethos, to meet and network with other coaches and staff, ask questions and establish support networks. Alan West Sports Council

Country Visits - May Monday 19

Ranfurly - 11:00 am Hawkdun Lodge, 1 Bute Street, Ranfurly RSVP Sarah Smith (03) 444 9668





Arrowtown - 4:30 pm St John’s Church Hall, Berkshire Street, Arrowtown RSVP Nathan Imlach (03) 409 8622

Tuesday 20

Wanaka - 4:30 pm St John Rooms, 4 Link Way, Wanaka RSVP Ellie Morris (03) 443 2073

Wednesday 21

West Otago - 11:00 am Waikaka Sports Complex, Waikaka RSVP - Amanda Perkins (03) 446 8630



Southland - 4:30 pm - Elmwood Garden, 309 Dee Street, Invercargill RSVP Lisa Hay (03) 221 7261



Thursday 22

South Otago - 12:00 Noon Cross Recreation Centre, 18 Glasgow Street, Balclutha RSVP Jan Campbell (03) 418 2454

Wednesday 14

Wednesday 21 - Practical Assessments – Senior Friday 23 School Thursday 22 Monday 26

Country Visits - South Otago HPV Year 8

June Monday 2nd Wednesday 4

Queen’s Birthday - School Closed Otago/Southland Milton Relay International Science Competition

Thursday 5

Open Day for prospective Boarding families

Thursday 12 Sunday 15 Monday 16 Wednesday 18 Friday 20 Saturday 21 Monday 23

Otago Cross Country Year 11 Study Skills Year 10 Study Skills Big Sing Year 12/13 Formal Boarding places for 2015 confirmed NZSS Cross Country 2015 Boarding places offered from 9:00 am Year 11 Science Field Trip - pm Year 11 Science Field Trip - am

Wednesday 25 Friday 27

Monday 30 June - Production Week Friday 4 July Performance nights to be advised Monday 30

Founders’ Day Service