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- Assistant Principal's Report
- Parent Teacher Meetings - Term 2 2022
- Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize Tour - 2022
- Student Leadership Term 2 Events
- Meet Our Student Leaders - 2022
- PHS Student Spotlight - Seth Rodriguez and Hamish Cameron
- Fun Experiences from our Art Class.
- Term 1 House Standings
- 2022 Levies
- 2022 Tasmania Term Dates
- Parklands Pop-Up Pantry
- Changes to Close Contact Requirements
- Managing COVID-19 in Schools
- Covid-19 symptoms - What to look out for
- Your Go-To Guide to Rapid Antigen Tests
- Do's and Don'ts of Mask Wearing
- The Smith Families "Learning for Life" Program
- Communites Tasmania - Ticket to Play
- Penguin District School Production 2022 - Rapunzel
Dear Parklands Community,
We welcome you back to what has proven to be an incredibly busy and enjoyable start to Term 2!
Staff Farewells
Schools are often a dynamic and fluid environment, where we are consistently navigating challenges and adapting to change. This term, we farewell three staff members who have played a pivotal role in growing and developing our students over their many years working in our wonderful school.
I would firstly like to acknowledge Ms Joss Hine, who has made the difficult decision to retire from teaching after a career spanning over fifteen years. Joss is a dearly loved teacher, who invested much of her time developing strong and impactful relationships with her students. She has been regarded as humorous, kind, caring and knowledgeable – particularly in the area of Design in Technologies. We will miss having Joss on staff and wish her and her dog Daisy all the best as she enjoys her next chapter.
Secondly, Mr Jeremy Legg has made the decision to explore the next phase of his teaching career as he embarks on a journey at Leighlands Christian School. Mr Legg has been a highly valued, caring and skilled mentor in the area of music at Parklands High School since 2018. His ability to tap into individual student interests, creativity and artistry has been phenomenal. Parklands has had a record number of student bands developed and performing under the watchful eye of Mr Legg. We know he will be sadly missed by both staff and students, and we wish him all the best on his new pathway.
Finally, we farewell Mr Anthony Hall, who has been successful in winning a leadership position at Romaine Park Primary School in the area of student support. Mr Hall has been a highly valued and skilled member of staff, who has supported many Parklands students in a variety of roles for approximately six and a half years. More recently, Mr Hall has played a fundamental role working within, and coordinating our Support Hub space. He is regarded by both staff and students as a kind, knowledgeable and forward-thinking teacher, who consistently goes above and beyond to support our students. We wish him well on his next chapter and congratulate him on his recent accomplishments.
Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
I would like to acknowledge Mr Sam Wells and Mr Guy Grey who recently initiated the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) at Parklands High School. A RAP framework provides our school with a whole-scale approach to driving reconciliation by building relationships, respect and opportunities in the classroom, around the school and with the school community. We value Tasmanian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage and look forward to developing a whole school plan that allows us to enrich and celebrate our understanding and connectedness to Indigenous culture.
Reconciliation Week occurs between May 27 and June 3 – we look forward to enacting some of our RAP developments during this time. ‘Be Brave. Make Change’ (2022 RAP theme).
Year 7 Swimming and Water Safety Program
This term, our Year 7 students have been fortunate enough to secure funding from Royal Life Saving Tasmania to participate in a Swimming and Water Safety program aimed at reducing the incidents of drowning in our state and country. During the 2021-2022 season, 112 lives were lost – this is an increase of 26 lives from the previous season. Developing the capacity of our students to participate safely in aquatic environments is essential. We encourage parents and carers to discuss theimportance of water safety with their children and embrace this opportunity. If you would like further information about the program – please contact our Health and Physical Education staff.
Sporting Calendar
Covid restrictions have been adjusted to allow students to freely participate in school sport. Research suggests that participation in physical activity has a positive impact on our social and emotional wellbeing. We strongly encourage students to speak with their Health and Physical Education teachers about these opportunities. Below is a list of sporting opportunities currently listed on our school calendar.
- Netball
- Senior and junior Football
- Year 7 swimming program
- Parklands High School Cross Country
- Inter-High Cross Country
- Soccer Gala Day
With many learning opportunities yet to come this term and Parent Teacher on the horizon. We urge students to knuckle down, remain focused, and continue to demonstrate courage and vulnerability when facing new opportunities and challenges.
Bianca Munday
Assistant Principal
Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize Tour - 2022
Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize Tour
As part of the Frank MacDonald memorial prize, Mr Lewis, former PHS student Jenique Howard and myself travelled to the Northern Territory for our 11 day study tour. We started our trip off with an early flight and then waited in the airport for many hours to meet up with the Hobart group. Once we landed in Darwin we were overwhelmed with the humidity and heat and headed straight to the hotel to have a quiet night before the long days ahead.
The first day in Darwin we went to the Royal Flying Doctor service museum, where we learnt about the bombing of Darwin and got to experience being inside a RFDS plane. We then went on a cruise around the harbour of Darwin where we visited the site of the HMAS Peary and many other landmarks. At 7 we went to the deck chair cinema and watched Ghostbusters: Afterlife.
The next day we went to the WWII oil storage tunnels under the cliffs of Darwin. It was very hot inside, but amazing to see. We then went to Casuarina Beach, where some local Larrakia people gave a traditional welcome to country ceremony and taught us many cultural practises. We also learnt how to throw spears, make fire and make bracelets out of bark.
The third day we went on a hop on hop off bus. We went to the Qantas Hangar Museum, Military Museum and Aviation Museum. As well as a general tour and history of the city of Darwin. This was so much fun and we learnt heaps.
Our fourth day started early, with a 2 hour drive to Kakadu National Park. On the way, we stopped at the Bark Hut Inn where we stretched our legs. We then went to the Mamulkala Wetlands. Here there were many lily pads and lots of cool wildlife to see. Our third stop was the Bowali Visitor centre, where we looked at aboriginal history and culture. Later that day we also did a cruise along the South Alligator River, where we saw many crocodiles and other wildlife, watched the sun set and lathered ourselves in bug spray. After a long day we checked in at the Mercure Crocodile Hotel.
Our fifth day we drove to the Anbanbang Billabong and Nawurlandja lookout. We saw many aboriginal rock paintings and climbed to the top of a lookout. It had 360 Degree panoramic views of the wetlands below. We then went to the Ubirr where we saw many more rock paintings. After lunch we went to Cahills crossing to take a look at one of only two crossings into Arnhem Land.
Our seventh day we got up at 5:30 for a 6:30 departure. We drove 2 and a half hours to Tindal RAAF (Royal Australian Air Force) base. Here we saw Australia’s newest fighter jet planes take off and land. We got to eat lunch in the Airmans mess (which was delicious). We got to tour the flight towers and see the on-site dogs and meet some of the pilots who fly the F-35 fighter jets. For dinner we went to Marksie’s Stockmans camp. Here we had jungle juice, which was amazing, and homemade stew. It was great to have a home-styled meal other than restaurant food. We also got to spin the billy of tea which was fun.
Day eight consisted of driving to Adelaide River War cemetery. We took a look around at all the graves. It was very sad to see the ages of the soldiers and tributes made by families. I also presented my soldier research here. Louis James Imer was my Great Great Grandfather. He served in World War 1 as a teenager. After looking around at the Cemetery we went to the WWII Pell Airstrip. We got to see bomb craters made by the Japanese and learnt about the property and the uses of it during world war 2. We then drove to Litchfield where we had a quiet night.
The next morning we went to the Batchelor Butterfly farm. We saw butterflies, goats, a crocodile in an enclosure, and many other animals. Our favourites were probably the baby rabbits. We then drove to Litchfield National Park. We saw some termite mounds, and wetlands. At Florence Falls we walked down 130 stairs and went swimming under the waterfall. It is one of the few safe natural places to swim. It was very fun to see the fish and go underneath the waterfall. After Florence Falls we went to Wangi Falls. Here we went for a little walk looking at the pretty twin waterfalls. After lunch we went to the Jumping Crocs cruise. We got to see many crocodiles in their natural habitat, as well as jumping out of the water trying to get the meat. We also learnt a lot about crocodiles and their ways of life. We then drove back to Darwin.
Day 10 was the 25th Of April. It is a very important day on the Australian calendar. ANZAC Day. The day many Australians lost their lives in the battle of Gallipoli. We got ready at 5am in our suits and akubras. We walked to the cenotaph and was seated for the ceremony. As 2022 is the 80th anniversary of the Darwin bombings, Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison attended the Darwin Dawn Service. There were also many US Navy Marines. As well as Australian navy, Airforce and Army veterans. After the ANZAC service we visited the Darwin Museum and Art Gallery. There was a range of galleries from Cyclone Tracy, to the maritime exhibit, and year 11/12 artwork from local schools. It was amazing to see many things all in one place. After we had lunch at the gallery, some of us decided to go shopping. We walked around the City of Darwin looking in many shops.
On the last full day in Darwin we went to the wave pool for some fun. It was super fun riding the waves on the tubes and trying to stick together as a big group. We also went and did a little bit more shopping before heading to Parliament House and the library. In Parliament House we looked around the building including the memorial plaques for the post office workers who were killed during the bombing of Darwin. In the library we looked at many different articles and artefacts from different times in Darwin’s history. We ended the day with a tropical themed dinner. We all dressed up in tropical clothing and had so much fun using photos from the trip to make memes of each other.
The last day we headed to the airport for our flights home.
I had so much fun on this journey and made many lifelong memories and friendships. I would like to thank everyone involved for making this possible. I encourage any current and future grade 9 students to apply. I am also happy to help with the process.
Finally, It is pretty safe to say we were thankful for air conditioning!
Taleah Smith
Meet Our Student Leaders - 2022
Taleah Smith
I woulsd tell a future student to take every oppourtunity possible, make sure to have fun and put your best food forward always.
In my future I would like to be working as a ???
I am unsure at what i would like to do. I want to travel and perhaps move somewhere else. I do want to have a career working with children or a law based job.
The best experience I have had in Grade 10 is ...
My best experience is the Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize. I have loved meeting new people from all over Australia, most with similar intrests to me. I also loved learning about Australias involvement in WW1 and WW2.
The thing I have enjoyed most at Parklands is …
I have loved making new friendships and relationships with staff. I love all the different range of oppourtunities avaliable to all students.
If I could change one thing about the world now it would be?
I would change the War. It is a horrible things for many families to loose people out of teir family. I makes people upset and scared.
To be the best you can be at Parklands as a student you need to ...
You need always try hard. Go to class wanting to learn. You will also have to give up some of your own time to help yourself.
PHS Student Spotlight - Seth Rodriguez and Hamish Cameron
Seth Rodriguez Year 10
Which sport do you play?
Rugby union
How long have you played for?
This year, about 5 months
Which position do you play? Why do you like this position?
Center. I like it a lot because there’s a lot to do
Who has inspired you to push yourself in your sport? How so?
Myself and my sponsor
What is your favourite thing about your sport?
The game in general. Very physical and I like the contact
How did you make the state team? (What was the process?)
I went to a two-week state trial
What were the challenges involved in making the team?
My ability to know the rules
When/where do you travel to represent Tasmania?
Canberra
What advice do you have for other athletes?
Keep doing what you’re doing
Hamish Cameron Year 9
Which sport do you play?
Hockey
How long have you played for?
11 years
Which position do you play? Why do you like this position?
Center half, because I run the ball
Who has inspired you to push yourself in your sport? How so?
My Dad because he played for Australia, and I learn off of him
What is your favourite thing about your sport?
The experiences and the physical activity
How did you make the state team? (What was the process?)
Tryouts and getting selected
What were the challenges involved in making the team?
Intense training for six days a week
When/where do you travel to represent Tasmania?
New Castle in April 2022
What advice do you have for other athletes?
Never give up, if you mess up fix and solve the problem
Fun Experiences from our Art Class.
Fun Experiences from our Art Class.
This term in Pre-Collage art we have been focusing on a sculpture unit, we have been learning techniques to create various sculptures with different materials. for example, one of the first sculptures we created was made out of foil. We were challenged to create mythical creatures using foil and wire the results were interesting. Foil sculptures are much harder than you would expect!
The next sculpture we experimented with was tape sculptures. Most people replicated hands, some people replicated objects instead. The process was very interesting, who knew sticky tape could be so sticky! During this process we were paired with a peer from our class and had plenty of time to get to know them as we used their hands to mould our tape sculptures. They came out really nicely, these sculptures were a lot easier than the foil ones!
Over the last two weeks we have split into a couple of groups working on plaster sculptures. The first plaster sculpture project involves designing and creating an animal. We have started with the base structure and will bulk it up with newspaper before wrapping it in plaster sheets. While we are working on this project, small groups have also been working with Miss Devlin to create plaster cast moulds of various items ranging from our hands to things from our cabinet of curiosity.
Some funny moments have included fingers sticking together during the tape sculptures, mythical creatures in sculpture form that oddly look like our peers…and students carrying buckets around with their hands as they wait for moulds to set.
Long term we are looking forward to creating sculptures of our own design utilising the skills we have learnt so far. Keep an eye out for our future updates and photos of our masterpieces coming from the Art Department.
By Danika Johnston and Michelle Summers-Isherwood
Levies
Levy payments are now due.
If your circumstances have changed, or if you are experiencing financial difficulty or financial hardship, or if you are receiving an invoice for levies and you shouldn’t be, please contact the school’s Business Manager, Angela Townsend or angela.townsend@education.tas.gov.au
You may be eligible for the Student Assistance Scheme. If you are eligible and your application is approved, you will not need to pay any levies. An application form is available from the School Office or you can apply online.
Changes to Close Contact Requirements
Changes to close contact requirements
Public Health has recently changed the rules for close contacts of COVID-19 cases so that they no longer need to isolate.
This means that if your child is a close contact – and importantly, symptom-free – they can attend school (except for support schools).
They would however need to pass a daily rapid antigen test before leaving home each day, for a seven-day period. Advice for close contacts is available on the Tasmanian Government Coronavirus website.
You will only need to let us know if your child is a close contact if they’re not attending school.
Close contacts should practise COVID-safe behaviours including good hand hygiene, physically distancing from others when they can and staying away from school if they have any symptoms.
While primary aged close contacts are not obliged to wear a mask in school, they can still choose to if it is practicable for them and they are happy to do so.
If your child is medically vulnerable and you have concerns with the changes to close contacts, then you may wish to work with your child’s medical practitioner to identify further options to reduce the risk of COVID-19 to them. If you have any concerns, please talk to us about alternative learning options.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our school office.
For more information about COVID-19, please visit the Tasmanian Government Coronavirus website or contact the Tasmanian Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738, or Department of Education COVID-19 Support Hotline at COVID19support@education.tas.gov.au or on 1800 816 057.
If you need support translating or interpreting this information, contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.
Managing COVID-19 in schools
This term, there will be some changes in how COVID-19 cases are managed in schools.
Our school will continue to work closely with Public Health to safely manage any COVID-19 cases, with a focus on testing students and staff who have symptoms.
The number of students and staff with COVID-19 will be closely monitored, and we will work with Public Health to respond as needed. If there’s an increase in cases, Public Health will tell us what we need to do and what actions families will need to take.
Parents and carers will no longer receive a message every time there is an individual case in a class or grade – unless students or staff are medically vulnerable.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our school office.
For more information about COVID-19, please visit the Tasmanian Government Coronavirus website or contact the Tasmanian Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738, or Department of Education COVID-19 Support Hotline at COVID19support@education.tas.gov.au or on 1800 816 057.
If you need support translating or interpreting this information, contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.
Covid-19 symptoms - What to look out for
COVID-19 symptoms to look out for
Thank you to our entire school community for your cooperation this term by practising COVID-safe behaviours.
As you know, an important COVID-safe behaviour is to stay at home if you’re unwell and get tested for COVID-19 using a rapid antigen test.
Public Health tells us that the number of cases of COVID-19 in children is low, and they’re likely to have milder symptoms.
It’s a good reminder to be mindful of the symptoms of COVID-19 in children. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 in children are cough, fever, runny nose and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
For more information, please visit the Tasmanian Government Coronavirus website or contact the Tasmanian Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738, or Department of Education COVID-19 Support Hotline at COVID19support@education.tas.gov.au or on 1800 816 057.
If you need support translating or interpreting this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.
Communites Tasmania - Ticket to Play
Ticket To Play Vouchers
Communities Tasmania - Ticket to Play
Information for parents/guardians/carers
To be eligible for a voucher, children must be:
- living in Tasmania;
- aged between 5 and 18 at the time of application; and
- listed on a valid Centrelink Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card (either their own or their parent, guardian or carer’s) or be in Out of Home Care.
Eligible participants receive two vouchers worth up to $100 each. Vouchers can be used at two different activity providers, or both at one activity provider.
Important dates
Ticket to Play runs on a financial year.
Applications are open from 1 July 2021 to 5 pm on 30 May 2022.
Vouchers must be given to an Approved Activity Provider by Monday 6 June 2022.
How to apply for a Ticket to Play voucher
Voucher applications are online. To apply for a voucher click here.
For each application you will need:
Parent/carer details (name, address, contact details and Centrelink Customer Reference Number)
Participant details (name, date of birth, Centrelink Customer Reference Number)
After submitting your application, you will receive an email asking you to confirm your email address by clicking on a validation link. Once your email address is confirmed, you will receive your Ticket to Play voucher codes by email.
What are the vouchers?
Each Ticket to Play voucher is a unique code (eg 22- ABC-ABC1-ABC).
Find an Approved Activity Provider
Vouchers can only be used at Approved Activity Providers (organisations/clubs) who meet certain eligibility criteria.
To find a list of Approved Activity Providers click here.
How to use Ticket to Play vouchers
Give your voucher code(s) to an Approved Activity Provider when you register your child for membership. You will need to show your voucher code(s) and Health Care or Pension Concession Card. The Approved Activity Provider will reduce membership fees by up to $100 per voucher.
If the full membership fee is less than $100, vouchers can only be used for this amount. For example, if membership costs $80, one voucher will cover the whole amount. The remaining amount of $20 cannot be used at another provider.
If the membership fee is more than $100, you can choose to pay the rest out of pocket or use your second voucher. For example, if full membership costs $150, the voucher will cover $100 and you will pay $50 out of pocket or use the second voucher for $50.
If you are using two vouchers at one activity provider, the vouchers will cover membership fees up to $200. For example, if full membership costs $150, the vouchers will cover $150. If full membership costs $250, the vouchers will cover $200 and you will pay $50.
Contact us
Contact us at tickettoplay@communities.tas.gov.au or on 1800 252 476.
Frequently Asked Questions for parents/carers/guardians
What if my child turns 5 or 19 during the season?
Children must be aged between 5 and 18 at the time of application. A child is eligible to apply on the day they turn 5 and until the day before they turn 19.
If I am 18, do I need to enter parent/guardian/carer details?
No. If you are 18 at the time of application, you can enter your own details on both pages of the application form.
What if my child is not listed on an eligible Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card?
Your child must be listed on a Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card to be eligible to apply.
Applicants who are in Out of Home Care and are not listed on an eligible card can apply for a voucher by contacting tickettoplay@communities.tas.gov.au or 1800 252 476.
Can I apply for vouchers for more than one child?
Yes. You can apply for vouchers for more than one child in one application form. Each child must be listed on a Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card and their own unique Customer Reference Number (CRN) must be used in the application.
How much funding is available?
Two vouchers worth up to $100 each are available for each participant in the 2021-22 financial year.
How do I apply if I don’t have internet access?
You can access the internet for free at your local library and even book a time for a library volunteer to help you.
Your chosen activity provider may be able to help you to apply online.
Some community organisations such as the Salvation Army may be able to help you access the internet.
If you still can’t access the internet, please contact us on 1800 252 476.
What if I don’t have an email address?
You can sign up for an email account through free providers including Gmail, Yahoo Mail or Mail.com.
What if I have made a mistake in the application?
Contact us at tickettoplay@communities.tas.gov.au or on 1800 252 476.
What if I receive an error message when I try to apply?
Check that you have correctly completed all sections of the application form.
If you are still unable to complete the form, contact us at tickettoplay@communities.tas.gov.au or on 1800 252 476.
What if I don’t receive my vouchers?
If you do not receive an email asking you to confirm your email address after submitting the online application form, please check your junk and spam folders.
If you do not receive anything within 24 hours, please do not try applying again. Contact us at tickettoplay@communities.tas.gov.au or 1800 252 476.
What if I lose my voucher codes?
Contact us at tickettoplay@communities.tas.gov.au or on 1800 252 476.
What can the voucher be used for?
The vouchers can be used for membership fees with Approved Activity Providers including Sporting clubs, Learn to Swim centres, Scouts, Girl Guide and Cadet organisations.
To find a list of activity providers click here.
Vouchers cannot be used for:
- individual equipment items or uniforms
- court fees or match day fees
- gym membership or classes run by a private gym
- travel to and from activities
- programs that run for less than six weeks
- activities that are part of the school curriculum or school-run competitions, including weekend inter-school sport competitions or activities
Can I use the voucher for dance classes?
No. Dance is not recognised as a sport by Sport Australia. DanceSport is a recognised sport and the voucher may be used if the club is affiliated with DanceSport Australia and meets the Approved Activity Provider eligibility criteria.
What if my local club isn’t an Approved Activity Provider?
Clubs must be registered as Approved Activity Providers to redeem vouchers. Contact the club to see if they have considered registering as an activity provider.
What happens if my child changes their mind about joining a club?
Activity providers cannot refund vouchers that have already been redeemed.
You will need to contact the club your child has joined to notify them. If the voucher has not been redeemed, you may use it at another Approved Activity Provider.
Can I use a voucher more than once if the activity costs less than $100?
No. Vouchers are single use only. Any remaining amount is not redeemable for cash and cannot be used towards membership at another activity provider.
Can I use my vouchers towards club fees I have already paid?
No. You must use vouchers at the time of registration.
Who can I contact for help?
Contact us at tickettoplay@communities.tas.gov.au or 1800 252 476 for help.