Senior School Link – Week 7, Term 1 2024 - 14 March 2024
Bob Meakin, Deputy Headmaster & Head of Senior School
Dear Parents and Carers
On Tuesday evening, our musicians performed in the Scholars’ Recital to the delight of everyone present. A huge thank you to them and the Music staff for a wonderful evening.
Yesterday’s assembly saw the presentation of the Archer Shield for CAS Cricket with an unbeaten season which Ms Marquet held aloft for the School to see.
Thank you to the cast and crew rehearsing for the Senior Production of Cloudstreet as they are working incredibly hard and well into the evening to ensure that there is a fine play for us to enjoy next week.
We also acknowledge the CAS Swim team for all their hard training in preparation for the CAS Championships at SOPAC this evening. We wish the swimmers the very best in the pool tonight which promises to be a great evening and we wish our sailors and rowers well for this weekend.
I would like to just draw your attention to an important message from NSW Public Health who has confirmed there is an outbreak of Whooping Cough (Pertussis) within the community, primarily amongst school-aged children and we have been notified of a number of cases within our Year 7 cohort. If your son has cold like symptoms, is unwell or has a cough, please do not send him to school and instead, seek a review with your doctor so a test for whooping cough can be completed. If your son is coughing, please ensure he is kept away from babies younger than 6 months of age or unvaccinated. Vaccination boosters are recommended for adults especially those who care for young children or babies, and for pregnant women.
My final message is for the community to look after one another after a challenging and confronting week.
Have a great week.
Best wishes
Bob Meakin Deputy Headmaster & Head of Senior School
Angelique Sanders, Director of Student Wellbeing
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
On Tuesday afternoon, our Year 7 and 8 students had the opportunity to engage in workshops facilitated by our House Prefects. The workshops were designed with a focus on fostering key values in our young people: Kindness, Compassion, Understanding, and Courage. In an engaging and supportive environment, students gathered in their House groups to delve deeper into these important themes.
The goal of these workshops was not just to discuss the meanings of these terms but to explore what embodying these behaviours looks like in real life and how it feels to practise them. Through guided discussions by our Prefects, our students were encouraged to reflect on their actions and consider the impact of their behaviour on others around them. Having Prefects lead our younger students in these workshops allows them to see the impact of positive leadership. It served as a powerful reminder that these values are not just ideals to be admired but are actionable qualities that can shape their interactions and contribute to a more inclusive and understanding school environment.
I would also like to remind you that should you need to speak to anyone about concerns you have regarding your son, please reach out to the relevant people. We are here to support them through their journey, and this trying time.
Regards,
Angelique Sanders Director of Student Wellbeing
Matt Grice, Director of Sport K – 12
Dear Parents and Guardians,
I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for all the support from of all students, parents, care givers and staff that has been provided during the summer sport season. The dedication and hard work has made a significant difference in ensuring a successful and enjoyable season.
Saturday saw the 1sts Cricket team receive the Archer Sheild for the 5th successive time from Mr Meakin after finishing the season undefeated. They have also extended their unbeaten streak to 18 CAS games. The dedication and hard work put in by each team member, coupled with the guidance and support from Mr Banes and Mr Staunton, have been instrumental in this remarkable achievement. This undefeated cricket season has not only brought immense joy and pride to our team, but it has also united us as a tight-knit family, forging lifelong friendships and memories. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to watch such a phenomenal season and look forward to carrying this winning spirit into the future.
Well done also to the 10ths Basketball (below) and the other undefeated teams this season. Amazing effort and a big congratulations to all!
Rowing held a very successful training camp in Berry, NSW over the weekend as they prepare for Nationals. A huge thank you to Mr Carroll and his team for facilitating this fantastic initiative.
A big thank you to Mr Pardey who took our Mountain Bike team to the Australian Mountain Bike Interschools Championships in Thredbo last week. The competition has a great atmosphere with competitors supporting and encouraging each other; this is reflective of the current direction of adventure sport and physical recreation for the masses. There is rivalry in the race but frequent stops in practice to chat, assist and cheer on riders from other schools. It was great to see so many students from around Australia exercising and competing in the Australian Alpine Region.
A reminder there is a sport free weekend this Saturday for the Senior School. An excellent chance for all to take a breath before the Winter season starts in full next week. A schedule of the Winter Season training and Co-Curricular Activities can be found here.
I hope everyone has a lovely weekend.
Kind regards
Matt Grice Director of Sport
Basketball Report – Round 10
Cranbrook Basketball played against Barker in Round 10 of the CAS competition last Saturday. The Brookie Ballers won 29 games, lost 17 games and had one exciting draw. It has been an eventful season of basketball for the Brookie Ballers and thanks goes to all the team managers and coaches involved in making it and successful and learning experience for all boys.
1sts
The Cranbrook 1sts played a competitive first half and, although behind on the scoreboard, were within touching distance at the half time break. The third quarter was challenging for the Brookie Ballers and they could not get into sync offensively. The margin widened in Barkers favour and the game loosened up in the four quarter with Cranbrook shots dropping. Cranbrook outscored Barker in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough to get back in the game and lost 68-97. There were several highlights including a some deep 3-points shots but the most impressive was Tom Schall’s (10 points) monster one handed dunk late in the game. Finn Haysom got it going with six 3-point baskets and finished with 29 points. Justice Single and Charles Walshe score 10 points and 8 points respectively, while Jesse Sher finished with 7 points and bag full of assists and rebounds.
2nds
The Cranbrook 2nds started on fire and opened up a 13-2 score line. Slowly Barker 2nds chipped away at Cranbrook lead and got themselves back into the game. It was a competitive fixture but Cranbrook eventually was unable to put the ball in the hole enough times and lost 39-53. Ben Olschewski led the Cranbrook 2nds with his high energy at both ends of the floor scoring 10 points.
I am so incredibly proud of the tremendous work being done by our musicians. Last week we saw 12 very talented students take to the stage, sharing their love of music with us. This week, we were treated to a special concert featuring our music scholars, who enchanted us with their talents. This group of students plays a special role in developing and maintaining an important cultural element within the fabric of our school. Through their hard work and determination, they inspire others, and by exemplifying diligent effort, they set the standard to which we all should aspire. I am immensely proud of all the performers who have shown tremendous grit and determination to present such high-quality works, both last week and again this week. Below are some visual highlights of the evening.
Monday 18 March
Performance Plus Masterclass series
Next Monday we are thrilled to have four Masterclasses running concurrently as we look to showcase and support the talents of all students across a spectrum of disciplines.
Janet Davies (Strings), David Stratton (Contemporary Music), Francis Greep (Piano) and Dr James Knightingale Woodwind/Brass and Percussion) will give masterclasses workshops to select students. These sessions are open to all students, and I would encourage them to select the most appropriate area in order to gain valuable insight as they too seek to develop their craft in music making.
Tuesday 26 March
Easter Concert
In the coming weeks, we look forward to hearing our Choirs, Chamber Strings and Brass ensemble perform a series of reflective works in our annual Easter Concert. Please join us In the Chapel for a evening of Music
Phil Beverley Director of Music
Cloudstreet Drama Production
Cloudstreet penned by Australian author Tim Winton, is a literary masterpiece that transcends generations with its poignant exploration of family, identity, and the Australian experience. Set in post-World War II Perth, the novel-turned-play follows the lives of two disparate families – the Pickles and the Lambs – who find themselves sharing a large, ramshackle house on Cloud Street.
At its core, Cloudstreet is a saga of resilience and redemption, weaving together the stories of its colorful characters against the backdrop of a rapidly changing nation. From the affable yet flawed Sam Pickles to the stoic and resilient Oriel Lamb, each member of the two families grapples with their own trials and tribulations, ultimately finding solace and strength in their shared struggles.
Cranbrook Drama is excited to present this senior production in the round as an immersive production for the audience to experience in the Packer Theatre.
Cranbrook had a mixed result in its debates against Kambala on Social Issues last Friday night but continued to turn out success stories. Wins for the 8s, 10s and Senior As, with the 10s now undefeated after four rounds!
See below the ISDA topics, for which Cranbrook was affirmative in all debates:
Division
Topic Area Round 4 ISDA: Social Issues
7
That celebrity activism has been good for social justice.
8
That celebrity activism has been good for social justice.
9
That we should offer a wage to primary domestic caretakers.
10
That schools should actively subvert gender roles.
Senior B
That schools should actively subvert gender roles.
Senior A
That schools should actively subvert gender roles.
See below the updated tally:
ISDA Division
Round 1 vs SACS
Round 2 vs St Caths
Round 3 vs Kincoppal
Round 4 vs Kambala
7
WIN
Loss
WIN
Loss
8
WIN
TBC
WIN
WIN
9
WIN
WIN
WIN
Loss
10
WIN
WIN
WIN
WIN
Senior B
WIN
WIN
WIN
Loss
Senior A
WIN
WIN
Loss
WIN
Eastside R2 results Cranbrook vs Scots
Cranbrook had a successful evening against our Bellevue Hill rivals, Scots, in Round 2 of the competition. Wins were had for the 8s, 9s, 11s and 12s. Congratulations to the 9s and 12s, who are undefeated after two rounds!
See below the Eastside pre-season round topics:
Division
Topic Area Round 2 Eastside: Law and Justice
7
That the government should provide a lawyer to all plaintiffs and respondents in civil lawsuits.
8
That the government should provide a lawyer to all plaintiffs and respondents in civil lawsuits.
9
That we should abolish purely aesthetic requirements for housing construction (e.g. requiring neighbouring houses to look different, regulating window position, regulating colour choices).
10
That all regulation of Artificial Intelligence should be created by a technocratic body.
11
That all regulation of Artificial Intelligence should be created by a technocratic body.
11
That all regulation of Artificial Intelligence should be created by a technocratic body.
See below the results for Cranbrook:
Eastside Division
Round 1 vs Sydney Grammar
Round 2 vs Scots
7
Loss
Loss
8
Loss
WIN
9
WIN
WIN
10
Loss
Loss
11
Loss
WIN
12
WIN
WIN
This Friday 15th March sees the following debates take place:
Details
ISDA
Eastside
Round
Round 5
Round 3
Venue
Shore
Reddam
Address
Cranbrook (Home)
Cranbrook (Home)
Entry via
Rose Bay Avenue pedestrian gate. On entry, make a sharp right and go down to Level V4 of the Vicars Centenary Building.
Hordern Oval New South Head Road gate. On entry, walk past the Rotunda and go into the Senior School Library. This will be the meeting point.
Years 7-9 debate / finish
Debates start 6.30pm / Debates finish 7.30pm
Debates start 6.15pm / Debates finish 7.15pm
Years 10-12 debate / finish
Debates start 7.30pm / Debates finish 9.00pm
Debates start 7.15pm / Debates finish 8.45pm
Topic area
Not advertised
Education
Spectator policy
Spectators welcome
Spectators welcome
A reminder that all Years 7-9 debaters must be collected by a parent or guardian at the end of the night.
Cranbrookians attend Model UN State Conference
Last weekend, the following students attended the Model UN State Conference:
Kernel He
Jack Kelly
Archie Talib
Hunter Wild
Oscar Simich
The students travelled to Collaroy, where they connected with students from across Sydney and beyond within the state for a weekend of international debates. Students engaged with a range of UN-worthy issues, including the impacts of decolonisation, overseas slavery and political censorship. It wasn’t just all about debates, the students had opportunities to socialise with like-minded students, re-connecting with those they’ve met at other events and even making new friends.
An account of students’ experiences will be published in our next article.
Upcoming oratory events
Social Debating (Years 7 and 9), Rostrum Public Speaking Prep, and Mock Trial this Thursday 14th March from 3.30-5.30pm
ISDA Competition Debating R5 vs Shore (home) and Eastside Competition Debating R3 vs Reddam (home) this Friday 15th March
Public Speaking next Monday 18th March from 3.30-5.00pm, with Rostrum students staying until 5.30pm
Social Debating, Mooting and Mock Trial next Thursday 21st March from 3.30-5.30pm
ISDA Competition Debating R6 vs Scots (away) and Eastside Competition Debating R4 vs Sydney Boys (away) next Friday 22nd March
Oratory programmes above are fully subscribed for Semester 1
There has been a lot of recent interest in participating in one or more of our oratory programmes listed above. However, close date for sign-ups have long passed and we are presently fully subscribed across all debating, public speaking, and Model UN. We are therefore unable to accept new enrolments. However, students keen to gain access to our resources and prepare themselves for Semester 2 sign-up are welcome to reach out to me (note, we only accept expressions of interest from students directly). Sign-up for Semester 2 offerings will circulate via student email in mid-June.
AMEB Voice and Communication being introduced
Starting after the Easter break, Cranbrook will be introducing the AMEB Voice and Communication syllabus to students in Years 7 and 8 who find speaking publicly a challenging experience and who are eager to develop the confidence and skill to express themselves with purpose, clarity and flair. The AMEB course may be familiar to those whose children work through grades of Music for their chosen instrument. For Voice and Communication, it will involve engaging with a range of text types like prose and poetry, speaking in a range of contexts (some favourites include performing a magic trick to an audience or presenting a verbal media report) as well as learning good vocal exercises and posture techniques to communicate well.
Students involved will be led by a public speaking coach and teacher with experience in this field, receiving small group tuition and support so they can prepare for the formal external assessment component of the AMEB. This involves speaking in small groups and individually to a panel of assessors, who will provide marks and feedback. Involvement in Voice and Communication is designed to be long term, with students moving up grades (levels) each year, eventually having the opportunity in senior years to try their hand at the Voice and Communication Certificate course. More details can be found on pages 71-92 of the syllabus guide.
It is planned to host weekly prep sessions for students on Friday afternoons at Cranbrook, 3.30-5.00pm. There will also be a weekly lunchtime check-in for students. The formal assessments by the AMEB are typically held in August-September each year, with back-up dates in the final months of the academic year. Preference will be given to students not already involved in our programmes and numbers will be limited.
This will be a paid extra for those students who ultimately participate. The cost will include tuition throughout the year, a light afternoon snack each Friday, and the fee for the formal assessment (cost will exclude having to re-sit an assessment for any reason, which will be charged extra).
A webinar with more information will be held via TEAMS at 6pm Monday 25th March. If you and your Year 7 or 8 child are interested in attending, please register your interest here.
Contact
Should you or your son have any further questions about any of Cranbrook’s oratory programmes, you are welcome to reach out to the Head of Oratory and Student Journalism, Mr Benjamin Smith, at bsmith@cranbrook.nsw.edu.au. In the first instance, students should be making contact about getting involved.
Essential information and highlights for parents will be posted here on Cranbrook Connect as part of the Thursday Link. Students involved in oratory programmes will receive updates via their respective Canvas or TEAMS channels.
Benjamin Smith Head of Oratory and Student Journalism
Articles of Interest
Please find articles of interest below compiled each week by members of the boarding staff team.
The Old Cranbrookians’ Association is proudly supporting the Three Islands Classic (3IC), to be conducted as usual on Sydney Harbour. It’s open to all who are owners or skippers and can beg, borrow or by other means produce a keelboat for the day! The event will be held on Sunday 24 March 2024 and will commence at 11am with most yachts sailing for approximately one and a half hours. Arrival at Royal Australian Naval Sailing Association (RANSA) will then be around 1pm for an award ceremony at about 2pm. Old Cranbrookians and Cranbrook families are all welcome to come along!
Cost: $70 to cover the cost of running the 3IC, the use of the venue at RANSA for the post-race raft, TryBooking fees and trophy regeneration.
For all enquiries or if you’re just keen to be part of a crew, please contact Rebecca Curran in the Development Office on +61 2 9327 9409 or email alumni@cranbrook.nsw.edu.au
CRU Camp
Don’t miss out on a CRU Camps for K-Y12! Choose from residential activity camps, HSC & IB study camps or daytime-only camps, all with fantastic activities like sailing, horse riding, rock climbing, archery, canoeing, abseiling, cooking, Year 12 study, plus new friends, engaging Bible talks & more! For more info or to register, visit crucamps.com.au ‘CRU Camps’ is a division of the Crusader Union of Australia which has 90 years’ experience running safe, Christian camps for kids.
