Principals Report

Dear Fortians, Parents and Carers,

Welcome back to Term 2. It has been a particularly busy start to the term with many excursions and incursions taking place over the past two weeks. Teachers returned to a professional learning day at school on Monday 29 April with a shared focus with all other NSW Department of Education schools on Curriculum Implementation. Staff spent time during the day looking at changes to the curriculum, new syllabus implementation, programming, and assessment.

As we enter Term 2, I want to stress the significance of consistent and punctual school attendance. Research unequivocally demonstrates that regular attendance is paramount for students to excel academically, forge meaningful social bonds, and enjoy a fulfilling school experience. According to the NSW Department of Education, students are required to attend school at least 90% of the time. However, recently, we have observed an increase in occasional absences among our students. Missing school can result in missed assignments, diminished social interactions, crucial lessons, or opportunities like sports team selections.

Additionally, there has been a noticeable rise in lateness among students. Being late not only affects a child’s attendance record but also deprives them of valuable learning time. Last term, our wellbeing team met with consistently late students to devise strategies for improvement. Starting from Term 2, the school will implement a comprehensive plan to enhance student attendance. Many of our students demonstrate exemplary attendance; to recognise their commitment, we are introducing an attendance reward system. For those persistently struggling with lateness, after-school detentions will be administered – more details about attendance will be sent via email to parents next week. If you encounter difficulties in ensuring your child’s punctual attendance, please reach out to the school. Our staff is dedicated to assisting you and your child. We look forward to collaborating with you to provide the best possible support for Fortians throughout their high school journey.

ANZAC Day Assembly

Students returned on Tuesday 30 April to an ANZAC Day assembly. I would like to thank Ms Wark for putting together this assembly and to Amelia Khoury (Year 10), Kai Hall (Year 10) and Abhijay Beer (Year 10) for the thoughtful and respectful ANZAC addresses delivered and to Jasper Kameron (Year 11) for playing the bugle at this occasion. At the assembly the Chamber Choir beautifully performed Abide with Me arranged by Matthew Manchester and Alex Pringle.

Sport at the Fort

The whole school Cross Country event was a huge success again this year held at HJ Mahoney Memorial Park in Marrickville. I would like to thank Ms Ezekiel HT PDHPE/Sport and the entire PDHPE team for putting this day together. Congratulations to Preston, who won the house championship. I would also like to congratulation our age champions:

18 Boys – Calan O’Dwyer 18 Girls – Anne Sophie Hegi

17 Boys – Gordon Yuan 17 Girls – Vlada Vasiliev

16 Boys – Joe McGee 16 Girls – Anna Kepert

15 Boys – Akira Howard 15 Girls – Majella Murphy

14 Boys – Harrison Ma 14 Girls – Audrey Leblond

13 Boys – Miles Elliot 13 Girls – Ashleigh Pitzing

12 Boys – Lucas Lim 12 Girls – Cara Hughes

Our school athletics carnival will be held on Wednesday, March 15, at SOPAC, Homebush. I would like to remind all Fortians that the carnival is not just about competition; it’s about coming together as a community to celebrate our talents, support our peers, and create memories. Whether you’re sprinting down the track, soaring through the air in long jump, or cheering from the sidelines, your presence and participation make a difference. Fortians are encouraged to paint the field with their house colours and show their house spirit.

I am also proud to announce that three of our Fortians, Daniela Guzina, Brendan Fu, and Horatio Zhang, will be representing Fort Street and Sydney North at the upcoming NSW CHS Swimming Carnival next week. I extend our best wishes and support to them for a successful competition. I am also excited to share that Joey Lu will be representing Sydney North at the All Schools Football Tournament in Coffs Harbour. We wish Joey the best of luck as she competes in this event.

IMP Spain and Portugal Tour

During the school holiday break, a group of 99 talented students, accompanied by nine dedicated staff members, embarked on a musical journey through Spain and Portugal. The tour was a remarkable experience, as our students had the opportunity to showcase their talents in breathtaking venues to international audiences. We extend our deepest gratitude to the IMP Director, Matthew Manchester, and his team, whose tireless efforts made this trip possible. Additionally, we express our heartfelt appreciation to the staff who accompanied our students during the holiday break: Mr Manchester, Ms. Mattick, Ms. Thompson, Ms. Propsting, Mr. Latimer, Mr. Ockwell, Mr. Shakibaei, Mr. Pringle, and Mr. Cassar. Your commitment and support have enriched our students’ musical education beyond measure.

Cairns Geography Field Trip

Towards the end of the school holidays and the first few days of term 2 our Year 12 Geography students embarked on a memorable field trip to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. Led by the dedicated efforts of Mr. Latimer and Ms. Jenkyn, our students delved into the wonders of one of the world’s most remarkable ecosystems. From exploring the diverse landscapes of Cairns to snorkeling amidst the breathtaking coral formations of the Great Barrier Reef, this trip was both educational and awe-inspiring. Special thanks to Mr. Latimer and Ms. Jenkyn for their exceptional organisation and unwavering dedication in providing our students with such a valuable learning opportunity.

Staff Changes for Term 2

I would like to extend a warm welcome Ms Gabriela Capel who joins us as a permanent teacher in the CAPA department. Ms Capel is an experienced Visual Arts and PDM teacher who joins us from Carlingford High School.

Upcoming Events:

Monday 13 May: Year 10/11 Study Skills evening for students and parents

Monday 13 May: Theatre Sports Competition (evening)

Wednesday 15 May: Athletics Carnival – SOPAC Homebush

Friday 17 May: Year 12 Shave for a Cure Charity event

Friday 17 May: Zone Cross Country, Macquarie Sporting Fields

Monday 20 May: Year 7 Elephant Ed Workshops

Monday 23 May to Sunday 26 May: Gold Duke of Ed Hike

Monday 27 May: In Concert Rehearsal and Performance

Wednesday 29 May: Future Leaders Conference

Leadership Academy

Stage 6 Premier’s Debating Competition

It has been an enthusiastic start to 2024 for the Debating and Public Speaking Club. For the second year running we have had our largest enrollments of students, especially from the Year 7 and 11 cohorts. Students have been eagerly engaging in the weekly Monday afternoon club training, learning the ins-and-outs of debating and honing their public speaking skills. 

The Stage 6 Premier’s Debating Competition kicked off with some mixed results from our A and B Teams. The Fort Street High School PDC A team began their season with some very tough opponents, however this did not phase them in the slightest. Their opening round was against one of the competition favorites Sydney Girls High School and after a hard fought debate they narrowly lost. However, they dusted themselves off and turned this around and won their next two debates, moving them into round 3 of the competition. A special mention goes to the team’s victory over their bitter rivals Lindfield Learning Village, last year’s winners, which has given them strong motivation. 

The B team consisted of many new faces, most of which had never debated before in a formal setting,  and despite this, gave their opponents some tough debates. They too faced off in their opening round against Sydney Girls, narrowly losing, by one point against a  seasoned team. Unfortunately they were knocked out in the next round, again narrowly losing. Despite their losses the team learnt some valuable lessons and tricks and I am sure will be using them in their path to victory next year. A big congratulations to all our senior students and we will be cheering on our A team as they go further into the PDC Competition.

Stage 6 PDC Team A

• Johnathan Bonnice – Year 12
• Min Park – Year 11
• Gina Hong – Year 11
• Ella Lo – Year 11
• Toby Smith – Year 11

Stage 6 PDC Team B

• Alexa Salmon – Year 11 
• Keith Hoang – Year 11
• Emma Howes – Year 11 
• Charlie McQueen – Year 11 
• Claire Bentley – Year 11

Mr Tennent (Debating and Public Speaking Coordinator) 

IMP Tour to Spain and Portugal

On the 11th of April, 110 excited Fort Street High School students and staff (and almost 3000kg of gear!) boarded flights for Madrid for the long awaited and highly successful 2024 IMP Tour to Spain and Portugal.

An unforgettable trip, the musical highlights included:

• An intensive wind band workshop in Madrid, tackling a Spanish military fantasy with musicians from the Spanish Armada wind band, under the baton of their conductor Lt Cdr Miguel.
• A concert at the Teatro Mira in Madrid where IMP students performed to a wonderful audience of over 400 patrons.
• In Granada, a performance with standing ovation from around 550 patrons in the Auditorio Manuell de Falla, a recital hall venue in Granada with outstanding acoustics. Located right next door to the Alhambra, the views from the dressing room were stunning!
• A school exchange at the Colegio Sagrado Corazon in Granada, which boasted a stunning chapel where the students from both schools enthusiastically performed for each other.
• A performance in a Lisbon theatre in Palmela.
• In a very special event, the Chamber Choir and an octet of wind and brass provided the music in the Australian Embassy’s ANZAC commemoration at Liga dos Combatentes, on Lisbon Harbour, and Fortians also served as ushers, and flag bearers. Speakers included the Australian Ambassador to Portugal, Indra McCormick, and the Turkish Ambassador.
• A 3-hour orchestral masterclass with Maestro Pedro Neves, conductor of the Lisbon Metropolitan Orchestra.
• Members of the Tour Wind Band and the Jazz Orchestra participated in a 3-hour masterclass with the navy band of the Portuguese Armada followed by a beautiful lunch in the mess hall hosted by the Australian Ambassador. As is our custom, Fort Street sang for their supper, to the delight of the Navy officers, musicians, and cooks.
• Enjoying the beautiful sounds of local Fado musicians during the farewell dinner in the Old Town of Lisbon.

When not rehearsing or performing, Fortians soaked up the sights, sounds and tastes of Spain and Portugal, exploring the historic streets of Madrid, Granada, Seville and Lisbon on foot; taking a day trip to breath-taking historic town of Toledo; sampling tapas, Pasteis de Belem, and other culinary delights; discovering their flair for Flamenco dancing; visiting a bull farm; and marveling at the majestic Alhambra in Granada and palaces of Sintra.

An enormous debt of gratitude is owed to the IMP Coordinator & Director of Bands, Matthew Manchester, as well as Fort Street High School Staff, and the IMP committee. Without their passion, energy, and outstanding organisational skills, this trip could not have occurred.

Instrumental Music Programs

SAVE THE DATES: IMP Winter Concert Friday 28 June and IMP Summer Concert Friday 13 December

In Concert 2024 – tickets now on sale!

Families of students participating in In Concert 2024 can now purchase tickets for the performance at Sydney’s Town Hall on Monday 27 May at 7.00pm : Here

Other Opportunities

1. State Wind Bands – applications close 10 May

The Arts Unit’s State Wind Bands provide an opportunity for high potential and gifted music students in NSW public schools to perform in a state ensemble under the direction of expert conductors. The rehearsal schedule is condensed to support participation from non-metro students, who will work with professional conductors and tutors in large ensemble and small sectional sessions to prepare for performances at the Sydney Opera House.

State Senior Band (for students in Years 9 to 12) Workshops at The Arts Unit, Lewisham Saturday 10 – Sunday 11 August. Performances at The Sydney Opera House Monday 12 – Tuesday 13 August.

State Junior Band (for students in Years 5 to 8) Workshops at The Arts Unit, Lewisham Monday 12 – Tuesday 13 August. Performances at The Sydney Opera House Wednesday 14 – Thursday 15 August.

Cost: Sydney metropolitan student participation fee – $110. Students from rural & remote schools – $85.50. For more information and to apply, visit artsunit.nsw.edu.au/program/state-wind-bands Enquiries: Luke Wallace luke.wallace20@det.nsw.edu.au

2. State Music Camps – applications close 10 May

The Arts Unit’s State Music Camps provide an opportunity for high potential music students in NSW public schools to develop their performance skills under the guidance of expert conductors and tutors in a residential camp setting. During the week, students participate in both large and small ensembles, performing a range of engaging and high-quality repertoire with the camp culminating in a concert for families on the final night.

2024 dates:

Senior State Music Camp (Years 8 to 12) – 30 June to 5 July (Term 2 Week 10)

Junior State Music Camp (Years 5 to 8) – 21 July to 26 July (Term 3 Week 1)

Venue: Sydney Academy of Sport, Wakehurst Parkway, Narrabeen

Cost: Sydney metropolitan student participation fee – $700. Students from rural & remote schools – $375

For more information and to apply, visit: https://artsunit.nsw.edu.au/program/nsw-public-schools-state-music-camps Enquiries: Jacqueline Shaw jacqueline.shaw@det.nsw.edu.au

3. State Choir – applications close 30 May

The Arts Unit’s State Choir provides an opportunity for high potential and gifted choristers to sing challenging repertoire with Australia’s leading choral directors. The choir is open to all NSW public school students Years 8 to 12, with no audition required. The rehearsal schedule is condensed to support participation from non-metro students, who will rehearse in Sydney across three days to prepare for performances at the Sydney Opera House.

Workshops: The Arts Unit, Lewisham Sunday 11 August  and The Sydney Opera House Monday 12 – Tuesday 13 August.

Performances: The Sydney Opera House Monday 12 – Tuesday 13 August.

Cost: Sydney metropolitan student participation fee – $110. Students from rural & remote schools – $82.50

For more information and to apply, visit: artsunit.nsw.edu.au/program/state-choir Enquiries: Jacqueline Shaw jacqueline.shaw@det.nsw.edu.au

4. Boys Vocal Program – applications close 10 May

The 3-day Boys Vocal Program is a non-audition vocal program led by tutors Stuart Davis and Arlo Sim at Trackdown Studios at the Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, in Term 2 Week 6.

Open to all students in Years 5 to 12 who attend a NSW public school who love to sing and want to experience what happens in a recording studio. During the first two days of the workshop, students and teachers work on vocal warm-ups, vocal techniques, ensemble singing, filming a film clip and developing an exciting, harmonised repertoire. On the third day, students record the track with sound engineers at Trackdown Studios, where they experience the recording, engineering and mixing process. Following the program, the completed music clip and recording are available to all schools via the Arts Unit website.

Dates: Tuesday 4 June to Thursday 6 June (9.00am-2.30pm)

Location: Trackdown Studios, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park.

Cost: $90.00

For more information and to apply, visit: https://artsunit.nsw.edu.au/program/boys-vocal-program Enquiries: artsinitiatives@det.nsw.edu.au

P & C Fundraising

From dining to shopping, to travel and more, an annual Entertainment Membership means getting more of what you need and love, giving back to a cause you care about and sharing in the moments with those around you.

Your purchase of an Entertainment Membership contributes to our Fort Street P&C fundraising, with 20% of every purchase going to the school. 

Help us achieve our fundraising goals by sharing the link with your friends and family. Thanks for your support!

Purchase here:
https://subscribe.entertainment.com.au/fundraiser/2d03327

Year 12 Webinar Series

This series will give Year 12 students the inside scoop on everything they need to know about university – from choosing a degree, navigating entry programs, and applying to study, to tips and tricks for reducing their stress levels and boosting wellbeing.

Tuesday, 4 June
6-7pm
Early Entry Info Session

Wednesday, 11 September
6-7pm
Transitioning from School to Uni

All sessions are recorded for easy access and reference for anyone who has registered.

Register Now

UNSW | Year 10 Info Evenings: Subject Selection

May 9 to May 14, 2024

Get advice and information that’s specially tailored for Year 10 students, that will help you navigate the HSC subject selection process, explain how UNSW admissions and scholarship applications work, and give you an insight into transitioning into university life so that you can get a head start on planning your future.

Parents and teachers of Year 10 students are invited to join the evening as well as participate in the live Q&A session.

We are offering two Year 10 Subject Selection Evenings across May. Event dates:

• 6 PM – 7 PM, Thursday 9 May
• 6 PM – 7 PM, Tuesday 14 May

Please select the date that best suits you. Attending both isn’t necessary (they’re all the same).

Find out more

Workshops and Information Evening

UOW | Performance & Theatre School Holiday Workshops

July 17 to July 18, 2024

The University of Wollongong is excited to introduce a new selection of school holiday workshops offered on 17 & 18 July 2024 for students in Years 11/12. These workshops are led by award-winning playwright, screenwriter and UOW lecturer Mark Rogers, winner of Sydney Theatre Company’s Patrick White Award. Two different workshops are available: Monologue Masterclass and Playwriting Masterclass.

Expressions of interest are open from Monday 29 April and close on Monday 20 May 2024.

Find out more

University of Sydney | Year 12 Information Evening

May 22 to May 23, 2024

Explore our iconic campus and learn more about university entry, scholarships, study options and more at our information evening for Year 12 students and their caregivers. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore your options and ask any questions you have about joining the Sydney student community next year.

Our on-campus event will include a tour, course advice exhibition and information sessions on curriculum, scholarships, student support, campus life and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander study pathways. If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry – our online session will cover everything you need to know!

On campus
Wednesday 22 May, 4 – 7 pm

Online
Thursday 23 May, 6 – 7:30 pm

Find out more

SPECIAL REPORT: Celebrating IDAHOBIT

We possess a profound ability to shape our children’s attitudes and beliefs, embedding values of acceptance, inclusivity, and respect for all.

The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), celebrated each year on May 17th, emphasises the critical need to educate children about diversity and inclusivity. Inaugurated in 2004 by the World Health Organization, this day is a global call to promote tolerance and combat discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community.

Instilling respect and acceptance for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in children is crucial. Celebrating IDAHOBIT helps families communicate a strong stance against discrimination, highlighting the importance of diversity and the damaging effects of stereotypes and biases. These prejudices often arise from the media, societal interactions, and peer influences, necessitating proactive efforts from parents and caregivers to counteract and discuss these issues.

Creating inclusive environments supports diversity and plays a vital role in raising awareness and demonstrating solidarity with LGBTQIA+ students and community members. It is a commitment to creating a world free from prejudice and discrimination, instilling values of empathy, respect and inclusivity.

This Special Report will help you fostering acceptance, empowering young people to become compassionate and informed advocates for equality.

Here is the link to your Special Report https://fortstreet.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-celebrating-idahobit-au