SATAC Applications

Renmark High School students are well placed to be very successful in year 12.  With our recent Futures Expo, the university open days, and now SATAC applications for tertiary studies underway, it is a good time to reflect on student successes.  Last year our top two students achieved ATARs of 97.25 and 95, and students gained 3 of the 10 top scores in the Riverland.  Of our total grades in year 12 for 2018, 20% were A grades and a total of 64% were A or B grades.  These types of results meant that out of the 31 who applied for university courses, 26 students gained their first preference.  These courses included Engineering, Dental Surgery, Commerce,  Arts, Law, Physiotherapy, Speech, Medical Science, Info Tech (Gaming) and Psychology.   

From our 2017 cohort of school leavers, our top Renmark High School students achieved 99.85 and 99.70 (the top 2 scores in the Riverland).   Of the 35 who applied for university, 28 were offered their 1st preference including Chemical Engineering, Animal Behaviour, Creative Arts, Health and Medical Science, Forensic and Analytical Science, Psychological Science, Media, Architectural Studies, Marketing and Communication, Nursing, Business and Journalism.

For those putting in SATAC applications this year please remember application fees increase after 30th September for courses starting in Semester 1 2020.   30th September is also the closing date for the following courses offered in 2020 and late applications will not be accepted: Creative Arts (Drama) at Flinders University, Medicine/Surgery (including Bonded Medical place), Dental Surgery, Oral Health, and Veterinary Bioscience at the University of Adelaide.  For further important dates go to the website https://www.satac.edu.au/undergraduate-key-dates

Spring Fair

Our Spring Carnival is coming up, being held Friday night of week 1 next term.  Sites are available for stall holders so please contact the school to book.

On Wednesday August 28^th, Renmark High School’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and Art Spaces were officially opened by Member for Chaffey, Minister Tim Whetstone. We were lucky enough to have the support of community members on the day including Renmark Paringa Council CEO Mr Tony Siviour and Mayor Mr Neil Martinson, Renmark Primary School Principal Lyn Bretag, Renmark Childcare Centre Director Gale Hanson, St Joseph’s Principal Don Depalma, and RHS Governing Council representatives in attendance.

The $2.5 million dollar STEM and Arts facilities, built over 2018 were opened to staff and students at the start of the 2019 school year and have provided a platform for developing new and exciting learning opportunities. The new facilities boast a range of different learning environments. This has allowed classes to access spaces that meet the needs of different task design and for students to find spaces that meet their differing learning styles.

Already we have seen the collaboration between our Mathematics and Science faculties, designing integrated units allowing students to make links between different disciplines. Students have engaged in STEM based challenges and there has been an increase in team teaching. Within all of these, there has been a strong focus in developing students’ critical and creative thinking skills.

Students are thriving within the open learning environment. Not only are staff more accessible but students are also acting as owners of their own learning and as a resource for each other.

Charlee Webb: “As we all have Science at the same time, we have a lot of students and teachers who are able to help us”.

Amalia Belehris: “It allows you to work independently. You can pick a space that matches your learning style.”

Anna Son: “It’s got spaces for everyone’s different learning styles. I like the whiteboard tables because you can visualise your problem solving and work with others on complex problems.”

Jess Farrelly (Science Coordinator)

Student Support

The Department of Education is this year rolling out a new funding model to finance students with additional learning needs. This will provide schools with greater flexibility in delivering support. As a result, we are reviewing our current model, seeking feedback from stakeholders and researching ways we can improve our support to therefore improve student outcomes. We have had some constructive conversations with parents and welcome feedback from our community. If you would like to make a contribution, please contact the school. We are also exploring targeted literacy interventions and the best options for out site and will share this information as it comes to hand.

Transition Brokers. If your student has an identified learning need or an Individualised Learning Plan (or NEP, One Plan), they may be eligible to seek the support or a transition broker, some of whom were in attendance at our recent Expo. These organisations can provide a range of support depending on your student’s needs. This may vary from simply assisting with the development of a resume, to helping organise work experience or providing extra support and training in the work place. These groups can subsidise employers to support students transitioning into the work force. Our most recent success is a year 12 student who has secured 15 hours of part time work which he will combine with completing his SACE this year. Please have a look at the sites below and contact me at the school if you would like further information.

https://communitybridgingservices.org.au

https://wiseemployment.com.au/contact-us/

https://www.mobogroup.com.au/employment-services/

https://www.sureway.com.au/about-sureway/our-locations/berri/

https://www.barkuma.com.au

Danielle Weeks – Student Support Coordinator

The annual Language Perfect World Championships ended on September 3^rd, for the first time in a week long format. Renmark High School students across all year levels competed in a multitude of different languages over 141 hours, achieving some outstanding results across year levels.

Competing against students in 25 countries from around the globe, including United Arab Emirates, Romania, Vietnam, Canada, Spain and Austria, Renmark High School placed 266^th out of 1644 schools. In our category of 51-100 students, we placed 10^th out of 179 schools worldwide.

Globally, we took out first place in Russian in the 51-100 student category out of 36 schools and 6^th place in Greek, out of 601 schools. Students discovered the many similarities between Russian and Greek and were surprised at how quickly they progressed over the week.

In South Australia, Renmark High School came first on statistical average in French out of 45 schools, a magnificent achievement.

In total, 17 students achieved award status, however, Renmark High School’s top student this year, was Hadlee Harris who earned 5303 points and an ‘Emerald Award’.

A special mention and thank you to Maddy Matthews and Georgia Kennedy who were invited to speak live on-air at ABC radio to provide some insight and updates on Renmark High School’s performance. Other students also gave their feedback on their experience during the competition:

Breea Martinson "thank you so much for creating this comp, I’m loving it. it really helps me to grow".

Connor Stanley “It’s a good way to learn another language”

Jasmine Brine "Language Perfect is the best way of learning a new language in a fun way!!!"

Carah Jones "Love this so much".

Haleigh Barnes "I’m having so much fun".

Michelle Morris "It is a fun website to learn new languages".

Cameron Dando “ I love the tournament I want to sleep at the school”.

Congratulations to all of our talented Renmark High School participants and we look forward to seeing you take on world languages in 2020!

Jasmine Tassios - French & Spanish Teacher

The canteen recently received correspondence from a primary school student, who discussed their views on plastic straws and the impact on the environment.

After discussion, the committee decided to donate the current stock of plastic straws to the science faculty to use for STEM projects and buy a stock of paper straws.

Students are able to access these straws upon request, and we’re happy to be making small impacts on the environment.

This is an example of the impact you could have, if you just speak up. If you have any suggestions on how we can improve our canteen, please submit a letter to our committee via the front office.

Banking success for Letishia

A Renmark High School Year 12 student has made her way into the business world early by completing a school-based apprenticeship. 

Letishia Fewquandie completed a Certificate III in Business and Commerce recently as part of her SACE.

The 18-year-old began her apprenticeship in late 2017, after deciding she wanted to spend high school working towards a future career.

“I started working at the NAB in Renmark as soon as I started my apprenticeship,” Letishia said.

“I was able to drop a couple of subjects so I could focus on my apprenticeship and work at the bank every Thursday – which is my school’s flexible VET day.

“Having a job that’s related to school and getting paid to basically learn is pretty cool.”

Letishia said working in the bank had given her confidence. 

“I’ve improved my communication skills and really stepped out of my comfort zone,” she said.

“My manager has given me the opportunity to work extra shifts in the holidays and make some extra money. 

“After Year 12 I hope this leads to a proper job, but if not I have gained many skills that will allow me to branch out and continue to apply for other business courses.”

Letishia said she was an inspiration to her sister. 

“My younger sister is now doing the same certificate I did and is working at Westpac,” she said.

“I hope to be an inspiration to other students because this opportunity has been amazing.”

Jake sets scene for exciting film producer future

Creative SACE graduate Jake Rudd is one step closer to his dream of becoming a film producer.

Jake combined his love of IT and graphic design when took a Certificate III Information, Digital Media and Technology course as part of his SACE. 

The 17-year-old also completed SACE subjects Communication Products I, General Mathematics, Visual Arts – Art, and the Research Project.

The Renmark High School student completed his Certificate III and is now on track to finishing his Certificate IV Information, Digital Media and Technology course.

“I have always done well throughout school with my academic studies but in Year 11 I wanted to do something different and related to my interest in IT, which is why I took the VET pathway and the Certificate III in Information, Digital Media and Technology course,” Jake said.

“I absolutely loved the course and was able to complete it to a high standard, and in 2018 I branched out to combine IT work with design and graphic elements. I’ve always enjoyed getting creative and crafty with graphic design and using programs such as Photoshop.

“I was also able to combine my interest of computers with my Research Project when I came up with a user manual for constructing a desktop computer from start to finish. That really helped me gain an even greater understanding of computers.”

Jake now has his sights set on studying media art production in Adelaide.

“My main interest is creating videos and my lifetime ambition is to become a film producer in such a growing industry,” he said.

Renmark High School Pathways Coordinator Mrs Marina Pater said she was proud of Jake’s achievements.

“Jake has studied the Certificate III and IV Information Technology courses during his last two years at school and excelled in his SACE subjects Communications Products and Visual Arts –Design,” Mrs Pater said. 

“Jake has a strong interest in media and is looking to pursue this with further training in Adelaide next year. We are very proud of his accomplishments as a rural student in this competitive industry.”

Johnny’s on the road to success

A student who followed his business dream as part of his SACE has landed the perfect job.

Renmark High School student Johnny Bediavas successfully completed a Certificate III in Microbusiness Operations and a Certificate III in Business Administration as part of his SACE.

Johnny also studied General Mathematics, Material Products, Essential English and the Research Project.

The 18-year-old’s skills have not gone unnoticed by Renmark truck service Todiam Freightlines who offered Johnny an office clerk position.

“I have always had an interest in business and enterprise and it was a natural fit for me to follow a business pathway as part of my SACE,” Johnny said.

“I completed the Certificate lll in Microbusiness Operations last year and my Pathways Coordinator at Renmark High School suggested I study a Certificate lll in Business Administration.

“I have learned so many business administration skills, including using Microsoft Office, taking phone calls and writing messages down.

“I’m so happy to get a job where I can use my business administration skills and learn so many different things. In the future I would love to start my own business, where I find an everyday problem and find a solution to that problem.”

Renmark High School Pathways Coordinator Mrs Marina Pater is delighted with Johnny’s accomplishments.

“We are proud of Johnny's hard work and enthusiasm for the local transport industry,” Mrs Pater said.

“Johnny has been offered a position at Todiam Freightlines in their office where he is putting his VET skills to use. He is keen to continue learning more about the business world and will continue to seek more training at the local TAFE.” 

Christina Babaniotis, HR, WHS & Compliance Coordinator at Todiam Freightlines, said they were excited to have Johnny on board.

“Johnny’s enthusiasm and commitment to his work is very welcoming. It is great to see a young man dedicated to excel in his area of work,” Ms Babaniotis said.

“He fits in so well in our office and is a valued member of our team. With the legal and compliance commitment we have internally for the transport industry, this in turn will teach Johnny a whole new world of administration tools, as he has the ability and intelligence to learn and grow.

“We are excited to continue to train and assist Johnny to achieve his goals in the future.”

A group of agriculture students from year 9 (Kalyssa Plew, Stella Anderson and Brooke Perrin) and Year 10 (Danielle Leonard, Ashlee Watkins and Krystal Humby) participated in Merino Wether competition (Pen of Three) held on 4^th of September. Participating students started the day early in the morning (7 am) where they prepared the sheep for the show. The sheep was judged on overall weight gain, skin value, carcass weight and sheep handling. 67 schools along with 201 sheep entered the competition this year. The 3 year 10 students Danielle Leonard, Ashlee Watkins and Krystal Humby proudly represented Renmark High school in the show. They had to wait close to 2 hours standing with the sheep and waiting for judges to observe and make their decision, and they repeated the same routine at the end of the day before presentation at 5 pm. Students gained valuable tips and knowledge from the show which may enable them to prepare better for coming years. Students were extremely delighted to be part of school Merino Wether program and commented on how proud they felt in representing Renmark High School.

Throughout this term, Photography students have been working on various projects with Charles Tambiah, a science photographer associated with the Australian National University. Charles shared his vast knowledge of photography to guide students in exploring Macro Photography as well as portraiture. Students have produced some fantastic macro photographs using various objects as well as Spike the lizard and Smiggle the guinea pig.  There was a focus on lighting with exploration of light tables, natural outdoor lighting and studio lighting. Photography students are currently working on their portraits. Watch this space!

Darija Atsaves, Photography

Watercolour Painting

Students in Visual Arts were fortunate to have local artist Jacqui Mason come in and discuss her art and her inspirations and to  share some techniques of watercolour painting. We then had Chris Koolmatrie, Aboriginal Project Officer at SA Murray-Darling Basin NRM Board, share his valuable knowledge of native plants and their significance and use in Aboriginal Culture. Students are now applying gathered knowledge in working on a watercolour painting that depicts a chosen Riverland native plant or tree.

Ceramic tiles that represent each student’s identity

Darija Atsaves, Visual Arts

After a big day of  planning, speaking  and demonstrating high levels of resilience, students Wyatt Neef, Charlee Webb and Anna Son won 2 out of 3 rounds of debating. This will see our year 10 Renmark High School debating team compete in the finals. The grand final will be held at Loxton High School on Wednesday 25^th of September.

Mrs. Elliott - Literacy and Global Perspectives Leader

On Monday the 2^nd of September I was honoured to be invited to a state dinner at the Krystal Function Centre in Port Adelaide, in honour of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.

The state dinner was attended by many dignitaries including: Steven Marshall the Premier of South Australia, the opposition leader Peter Malanauskas, Tom Koustantonis, Steve Georganas, the Governor of South Australia and his wife, the Archbishop of Adelaide, his eminence Nikandros and all the Priests from the South Australian parishes along with 350 invited guests.

My invitation came about as a result of my involvement with the Greek community of Berri. I was the inaugural female President of the community, I am the secretary of the Berri Greek Ladies Auxiliary and the Principal of the Berri Afternoon Greek School. The dinner was a meet and greet for his Eminence as he has just been appointed as the head of the Greek Orthodox Church of Australia due to the passing of the former head, his Eminence Stylianos. His Eminence is touring all of the Australian states to meet as many of his parishioners as he can.

Personally it was a once in a life time experience and I would like to take this opportunity firstly to thank the current committee for honouring me and asking me to attend and secondly to my principal Mat Evans for releasing me from my school duties so I could attend. By Athina Papametis

Cirkidz’s two hour workshop provided for a group of year 8 students on Friday 30^th August was designed to improve student’s confidence, resilience and coordination as well as improve their strength and conditioning through basic balance on the tubes, globe and their peers, flower sticks and handles, juggling balls and spinning plates.

Students were taught the skills behind these circus activities before having a go and playing on their own and in small groups.

Wendy Matulic

Drama Teacher

Hello wonderful Renmark High School community.

I hope you have enjoyed our recent rain. I know my garden is rejoicing and singing "bring it on.."

I am sometimes asked when people hear about my area of work is “How do you do it and always with a smile?”  I can tell you that I have always had a passion for young people to reach their full potential - whatever success looks like for them. I believe that children need and have the right to experience love, safety, care, and laughter and to be instilled with hope for their future.

So to maintain longevity in my role I guard that hope and belief. I protect it, gain new knowledge and strengthen it with practical skills.  I focus strongly on looking after myself (some would question that I think) and enjoy simple things such as the recent rain, the daffodils flowering at the moment and all the other beautiful, funny, amazing little things that life has to offer.

So I like to challenge anything that may limit young people’s access to experiencing their right to experience love, safety, care, laughter and hope for their future. 

Simply because children/young people deserve it.

Have a fantastic week and keep smiling. 

Cheers Pammy - RHS Pastoral Care Worker

The RTLTC Junior Tennis Try Outs and Registration

Thursday Sept 12^th and 19^th and Saturday September 21st

For all juniors intending to play Saturday Morning Intertown Tennis and HOTSHOTS                             

HOTSHOTS Training Times

Thursday

3.45 – 4.25 pm Hotshots children 6- 8 yrs.

4.30 – 5.10 pm Hotshots for children 8-12 yrs.

Saturday

9.00-9.40 children 6-8 yrs.

9.45-10.25 children 8-12 yrs.

Hotshots is Tennis Australia’s official Getting Started Program and is designed for children who have little or no tennis experience. It is fun, social and active. Racquets are supplied.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOG0ViKczLo

Saturday Morning Competition Training Times

Thursday

4.15.pm – 5.15.pm.

Saturday

9.15.am. – 10.15.am.

Our Saturday Morning Competition is played throughout the Riverland during Term 4 2019 and Term 1 2020, starting at 9.00 am.

• 8 divisions.
• Modified balls, courts and scoring used.
• Teams of 4 or 5 – all girls, all boys or mixed.
• Adult support given to children in the younger divisions.
• Approximately half the divisions are timed, which encourages maximum participation and a definite finishing time.
• Good sportsmanship and having fun are most important.