Principals Report

Dear Fortians, Parents and Carers,

Speech Day unfolded as a successful event, concluding smoothly within the scheduled time frame. The gathering at Sydney Town Hall, is an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students and it is wonderful to be able to share this occasion with parents and former Fortians in such a beautiful venue. Our guest speaker, Philippa Scott, Fortian from the Class of 1998, shared her insightful reflections during her engaging speech. She recounted the significant influence her teachers at the Fort had on her long after she left the Fort and her transformative experiences, particularly moving to Canberra to study at ANU and the valuable period she spent living abroad. Philippa highlighted how stepping beyond the familiar walls of Fort Street and immersing herself in a different culture broadened her perspective and contributed significantly to both her personal and professional growth. Additionally, Alexander Howdin, the School Dux of 2023, delivered an outstanding valedictorian speech, making particular mention of his gratitude to the teachers at the Fort, his family, and his cohort. Special thanks go to Ms. Propsting, who coordinated the entire event, and the Speech Day committee, including our wonderful office staff, Ms. Mattick, Mr. Scudds, Mr. Manchester, and Ms. Wray, for their dedicated efforts in the preparations leading up to and on the day itself.

The Silver Duke of Ed qualifying hike proved to be a success, skillfully and meticulously led by Mr. Latimer. Congratulations to the 60 students who completed the hike. We extend our gratitude to the dedicated teachers, Mr. O’Neill, Ms. Johnston, Mr. Dong, and Ms. Catalan, who along with Mr. Latimer, generously sacrificed their weekend to accompany and support our students during this challenging and rewarding expedition. Their commitment and guidance played a vital role in ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all participants.

On February 22, Fort Street conducted a study skills workshop in the school hall, targeting Year 7 students along with their parents. Dr. Prue Salter, an experienced expert in the field, delivered the workshop, offering practical insights into effective learning strategies. The session covered essential aspects such as time management, note-taking, and examination techniques, providing attendees with valuable tools for academic success. Dr. Salter has been a longstanding contributor to our school community through these workshops, emphasising a commitment to enhancing students’ academic journeys. The interactive and informative workshop aimed to equip participants with tangible skills and foster a collaborative learning environment.

The recent Chinese school visit was a memorable experience for our Chinese Elective students as they had the chance to forge new friendships and practice their Mandarin-speaking skills. A special thank you goes to Mr. Dong and Mr. Gillespie for their organisation, ensuring a smooth and enriching cultural exchange. During the visit, the visiting students actively participated in various lessons, further enhancing their English language skills and fostering cross-cultural understanding. The visit not only provided an opportunity for language practice but also served as a platform for building lasting connections between students from different cultural backgrounds.

The upcoming Year 12 Parent-Teacher Night is scheduled for Monday, March 11, running from 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm in the school hall. Interview bookings through Sentral will be opened next Monday. For Year 11 parents, teacher interviews will be held on-site in the school hall on Monday, March 25, with bookings set to open next Monday, March 18.

NAPLAN testing is on again for Year 7 and Year 9 students. An email containing the test timetable will be sent out early next week. The tests are scheduled to take place between Wednesday, March 13, to Monday, March 24. Additionally, students will receive guidance this Friday on accessing practice NAPLAN exams from home.

Upcoming Events:

February 28: Zone Swimming Carnival

March 1 – 18: German Sister School Visit

March 1: P&C Year 7 Welcome Evening

March 6-8: Year 7 Camp

March 8: International Women’s Day

March 11: Year 12 Parent Teacher Interviews

March 13: P&C Meeting (Zoom)

March 13-25: NAPLAN Testing Window

March 25: Year 11 Parent Teacher Interviews

March 29 & April 1: Public Holiday

April 2 – 9: Year 12 Assessment Period

April 10: P&C Meeting

April 12: Cross Country Carnival

April 11-24: IMP European Tour

SRC Events

End of 2023 – Talent Quest and Candy Cane Drive!

The SRC ended last year’s festivities with two of our most anticipated annual events – the Candy Cane Drive and the Talent Quest. We spread Christmas cheer by selling candy canes and tags where students could write a message to a friend (much like the Rose Drive). This raised a small profit that went to the SRC budget, which we use for events like these! We then capped off a wonderful school year with the Talent Quest, organised by our Secretary Claire; it featured some incredible SRC and Staff acts, whole-school Christmas karaoke, and a wide range of truly impressive talents. During this period, our Vice President Dante stepped into the role of President, overseeing a very busy period with some of the most successful events we’ve run since COVID. Such a strong end to the school year gave the SRC momentum coming into a very busy Term 1.

2024 Clubs and Committees Day

Clubs and Committees Day is an important annual event, especially in a school with so many diverse extracurriculars and active students. Our Committees Liaison, Jesse, has been working since late last year to coordinate the myriad groups we have at Fort Street. This year, we saw great turnout and interaction, especially in years 7 and 8, who showed lots of interest. A range of clubs and committees participated, from Robotics Club to Philosophy to student-led social justice groups. The SRC would like to thank all the staff who organise these clubs and wish students luck with their newfound extracurriculars!

Upcoming events

International Women’s Day Fundraiser – Thursday March 7 – BBQ and fundraiser.

Finally, welcome back to school – the SRC is looking forward to a great and busy year ahead!

Eleanor (she/her)

SRC President

Year 11 Camp

On the morning of the 7th of February, we lugged our fully-packed suitcases (consisting almost entirely of snacks) to the Cohen Undercroft where we waited eagerly for the arrival of the buses that would take us to the Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation in Narrabeen which was where we would spend the next three days. The atmosphere of the cohort was diverse—with some students lamenting about forgotten items and others questioning the nature of the ‘Deep Water’ and ‘Archery Tag’ activities—but we were optimistic that spending this time with our friends and teachers would be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. 

The bus trip was brief and it felt as though no time had passed since we embarked that we were now arriving at our destination, Narrabeen Institute of Sport. We were first introduced to the dining hall, where we would spend our mealtimes socialising, playing cards, and eating the camp food that was served (which surprisingly wasn’t too bad). 

Before long, we were separated into our activity groups and thrown into the deep end (both figuratively and literally for some of us). We rotated through lessons that taught us important life skills such as Independence and Relationships as well as recreational activities such as canoeing, archery, and team games. 

By the end of the day, we were as exhausted as students during assessment period and returned to our cabins for some well earned rest (although some late-night sugar-induced shenanigans were afoot). 

The next day, we were woken up bright and early to commence a full day’s worth of activities. Throughout the day, many groups realised the true danger of the ‘dark water’ and stand-up paddle boarding activities was others attempting to sabotage and capsize your boat into the water. Nevertheless, the water activities were a highlight for many of us and even if we got a little wet, the laughter shared with friends about the collective lack of balance and skill we possessed made it all worth it.

The teamwork and problem solving puzzles within the ‘Initiatives’ activity were unexpectedly enjoyable, as groups worked together to find a practical solution to a common problem and develop their communication and critical thinking skills.

‘Archery Tag’ provided us the opportunity to live out our Hunger Games aspirations and attack our opposing team members with arrows softened with a marshmallow-like tip, which in all its adrenaline-fueled chaos created memories (perhaps of fear) that we will never forget.

Another memorable activity for our cohort was the trivia night we held that tested our knowledge on Drugs and Alcohol and included fun challenges such as the Vegemite challenge and try-not-to-laugh competition. For the second night, there were team games such as ‘finger fencing’ and ‘scissors paper rock’ which were very unique and engaging.

As our time at camp drew to a close, we embarked on our journey back home for a well-earned rest, with a bittersweet feeling of relief and sentimentality that we had survived Year 11 camp with all its ups and downs. 

A huge thank you from our cohort to Ms Catalan and Mr Tennent for their hard work in organising this amazing experience for us and Ms Nolan, Mr Prasad, Ms Strati, Mr Patulny, Mr de Jong, Ms Dooley, and Ms Propsting for sacrificing their time to be with us. 

Gina Hong (Year 11)

Year 11 Silver Duke of Edinburgh Qualifying Hike

Last weekend, 59 Year 11 students completed their Silver Qualifying Adventurous Journey hike by walking 35 km from Cowan station to Wondabyne Station. Half the group walked in the opposite direction from North to South.

 It was a challenging route which required fitness, navigation skills and a range of bush craft knowledge. Students crossed a variety of terrains. Throughout the journey students were trialing new skills and learning such as different camp stove types, new camping recipes and types of water filtration devices.

Despite two minor ankle injuries, some mosquito bites and one or two cases of sunburn all students were safe and enjoyed their trip. The journey also prepared them well to attempt their Gold level award expeditions later in the year.

I would like to thank Mr O’Neill, Ms Johnston, Ms Catalan and Mr Dong for their patience, care and efforts above and beyond what is required. Without teachers volunteering these trips would not be possible for Fort Street students.

 Mr Latimer

Silver Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator

World’s Greatest Shave

As part of Fort Street’s annual tradition, the Year 12 Charity Committee is hosting the World’s Greatest Shave on Friday May 17 (Term 2 Week 3). All funds raised will support blood cancer research and hair donated will be made into wigs for cancer patients.

We encourage you to talk to your child and get them involved in this charity initiative by committing to cut, colour or shave their hair and finding sponsors to raise funds towards the target. Sign up to the team page here.

Additionally, we would love to see some support from the FSHS community. You can donate to our team page here.

Thank you for helping us reach our goal.

Year 12 Charity Committee

Work Experience at Fort Street

WORK EXPERIENCE AT FORT STREET

Work experience is a program for year 10 students

It is optional, but highly recommended. Here’s why…

Work experience is more than a checkbox on your resume; or something you “have to do” in year 10. It is fun and it unlocks doors to opportunities!

Work experience bridges the gap between your studies and the workplace. It helps you build your confidence and skills ready for work

What Counts as Work Experience?

Work experience is any activity that helps you learn more about the workplace. It’s an experience that supports your knowledge and skills related to a chosen career path.

While traditional work experience opportunities see you spending a week or two with an employer, it includes other experiences such as:

Workplace Visits & Tours: Where you spend the day touring different workplaces, hearing from employees and learning more about the careers on offer.

Job Shadowing: This is where you’re paired with different professionals and spend a day or two with them, observing what they do and learning about their work.

Work Placement: This option allows you to spend a dedicated amount of time getting hands-on experience in a workplace. You could spend one day a week on placement for a set amount of time or complete your placement as a block for a week or two.

THE BEST WAYS TO FIND WORK EXPERIENCE

There are LOTS of ways to find work experience, so it’s essential to stay open to new ideas and opportunities. Work experience is most beneficial when you use it to explore your ideas and uncover new ones.

Remember to stay curious and give something new a go! Here are our top tips for sourcing opportunities near you:

1. Networking: Use your networks to find opportunities. For example, ask your parents and family if their workplaces offer placements. Personal connections often open doors to valuable work experiences.
2. Career Services: Speak to your school’s careers adviser. At Fort Street, that’s Ms Salisbury (office in the library). She’ll provide information on employers who offer work experience and help you find the right fit for you.
3. Volunteer Opportunities: Consider volunteering in your community. Volunteering allows you to contribute to a cause and provides a chance to develop skills, make connections, and showcase your commitment.
4. Online Platforms: Explore online platforms dedicated to job and internship postings, such as Linkedln, Seek or Indeed. Create an online profile and set up job alerts to stay in the know about opportunities.
5. Cold Outreach: Take the initiative by contacting companies or professionals in your field. Craft a well-written email expressing your interest and highlighting your skills. Many successful work experiences start with a proactive approach, demonstrating your enthusiasm and commitment to potential employers. Ms Salisbury is very happy to help you with this.

WHERE CAN WORK EXPERIENCE LEAD YOU?

Work experience can help you open many doors! Some opportunities you undertake may help you clarify where you want to steer your career.

And others can be the starting point for bigger and better things, such as:

Understanding yourself: talents, aptitudes, interests

Finding the Right Career Path: Work experience is a compass that guides you toward your possible future career pathways. By actively engaging in different roles, you can discover your strengths, preferences, and areas of interest, helping you make informed career decisions.

Understanding Role Preferences: Work experience is a trial run. It helps you to see whether a role aligns with your interests and goals. If so, that’s brilliant. If not, at least you now know that, and can begin to consider other possible career paths instead.

To do a work experience placement there are some legal requirements, and some (but not much) paperwork required by the Department of Education. Please make an appointment to speak with Ms Salisbury to get copies of the paperwork and to discuss possible opportunities and host employers. All year 10 students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and start thinking about potential experiences this year.

Fort Street P&C Fort Street High School is 175 years old this year!

There will be 2 substantial events to celebrate.

Fort Fest 2024! Friday 20th September, 3:15pm – 8.00pm.

An event for all the school and local community, with music, food, games and stalls. Run jointly by the SRC and P&C to raise money for the school, we are looking for volunteers to join the planning committee. We have roles of all sizes to suit all interests, so please email us at events@fortstreetpandc.org if keen. 

We’ll also need parents and students to run the stalls at the Fest. We’ll be sending out more details later, but in the meantime, please complete this Expression of Interest Form to let us know if you would like to be run a stall – https://forms.gle/LCjwhZKtTb5tBokC6

Fortian Alumni Dinner! (date tbc)

The school will be hosting a special birthday version of the Annual Fortian Dinner for all alumni. To be held on-site with guest speakers, entertainment and access to the school museum. The school is looking for any parents with experience in event management or contacts for furniture hire/catering/decorations etc. who would be willing to help with the organisation. Please email events@fortstreetpandc.org if this is you!

P&C Meetings

We encourage all parents and carers to join our P&C. Our aim is to support an inclusive and enriching community and provide students with the experiences, resources and facilities they need. Research shows that children perform better at school when their parents are involved in their education!

At the first meeting this year, the P&C approved the purchase of:

IMP Tuba and Trombone to the amount of $10,560

Staff Appreciation Lunch after Speech Day to the amount of $3000

Year 7 Social Event to the amount of $3000

Food Tech classroom Deep Fryers to the amount of $500

Science lab Incubators to the amount of $2800

Two 3D Printers to the amount of $12000

Next P&C meeting: Wednesday 13th March

Focus Item (tbc) starts at 7pm and the main meeting starts at 7:30pm, on Zoom.

The P&C holds meetings at 7:30pm on the second Wednesday of each month during school terms. The first meeting of the term is in the school library and the following meetings each term are held via Zoom. These meetings provide an opportunity to learn more about what is happening in the school, how it operates, to ask questions and to meet other parents. The Principal usually gives an informative report on the recent happenings within the school. 

Before most P&C meetings is a presentation on a focus item, for example on Wellbeing, eSafety, or how a particular subject is taught. If you have a suggestion for a focus item, please email the P&C: info@fortstreetpandc.org.

UNSW Engineering Young Women in Engineering Club

Toxic Achievement Culture

Toxic achievement culture is characterised by the entanglement of self-worth, achievement and the relentless pursuit of academic or extracurricular success – at any cost! This phenomenon goes beyond the mere quest for success. it embeds a belief in students that their merit is exclusively tied to their achievements, often propelled by intense external pressures from families, schools, and society.

Some students are overfilling their schedules with activities aimed at “getting ahead”. However, the consequences are proving to be detrimental on students’ mental and physical health resulting in burnout and heightened levels of stress. This culture is also being aggravated by parental expectations, peer competition and a relentless comparison ethos often driven by social media.

There is nothing wrong with having ambition, but it’s crucial to ensure that this desire doesn’t push our young people into a toxic cycle of achievement and make them feel that they must achieve in order to matter. The relentless drive to excel is leading many students to prioritise accolades over genuine learning and personal growth, often at the expense of their own wellbeing and interpersonal relationships. As adult carers, we need to advocate for a more balanced and holistic approach to achievement, emphasising the importance of resilience, wellbeing, and the pursuit of diverse interests.

This Special Report will help you understand the signs of toxic achievement, and how to address them so as to teach students how to adopt a better work/life balance.

Here is the link to your Special Report https://fortstreet.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-toxic-achievement-culture

Year 10-12 Information Evenings Tuesday 12 March & Tuesday 26 March

Students in years 10 to 12 can discover why the University of Sydney is the right place for them at our Information Nights for year 10 to 12 students held across Sydney.

They’ll have the chance to speak with current students and alumni from the area who have undertaken a variety of degrees from across the University and learn about admission requirements, entry schemes, pathways, fees, scholarships, financial assistance and support services from our expert staff and UAC representative.

Year 10 students joining us will take part in a separate interactive session that aims to help link personal interests and skills with careers and courses with a focus on selecting the right subjects for senior high school. Registration links for each event are here.

Bus Passenger Forum – Inner West

Online Feedback Welcome:

I know that the reliability and quality of bus services in the Inner West is of the utmost importance to our community, and many are eager to share their experiences and feedback.

Have your say at the Petersham Bus Passenger Forum

The NSW Government has announced the creation of a Bus Industry Taskforce to make recommendations to improve the reliability, quality and effectiveness of bus services across NSW.

The Taskforce is engaging directly with passengers and local communities to hear what people want to get from their bus services.

Members of the public and representatives from community groups, local businesses and non-government organisations are being invited to have their say at Bus Passenger Forums across NSW.

The Bus Passenger Forum pop up for the Inner West is being held on Thursday 29 February 2024, 10:00am – 12:00pm, at the Petersham RSL, 301 Trafalgar St, Petersham NSW 2049. 

You can register to join us on the day.

If you are unable to attend, you can still provide your feedback by visiting haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/bus-industry-taskforce

I hope to see you there.

Jo Haylen
https://www.johaylen.com/