TAS Talks Term 1 Week 2

Over the holidays I took some time to read and to catch up on a long list of podcasts and documentaries. A recurring theme in many of these which gave me cause to reflect was the destructive nature of the pursuit of perfection. We can all probably recall being told that practice makes perfect or something similar when we were younger. However perfection is usually unachievable and the desire to ‘be perfect’ can actually be a barrier to growth, trying something new or just having a go.

My regular message to students is that I hope to see them giving their best effort in everything they undertake, academic studies, co-curricular activities and challenges. This doesn’t mean that I expect them all to be A students, elite athletes or champion debaters. I agree with Mr Pearson who last week told the students that he had never had a conversation with a student about failing to achieve an A, but he had plenty of conversations about not engaging in class or putting effort into their work. It is the pursuit of excellence, application of effort and continual improvement that is truly important.

Our interactions with young people are so formative and it is often easy to forget or overlook their impact. In a world where ‘comparison culture’ is everywhere (and enforced by social media), unattainable standards can be perceived as the norm. ‘Perfection’ is often based more on external perceptions than internal motivations and it is, therefore, an evasive and unworthy goal. It is important that we help our students to set their own goals and challenges rather than internalising and trying to live up to the expectations of others.

While we will continue to celebrate outstanding achievements at TAS, we also celebrate effort and improvement in every aspect of school life. It is my sincere hope that our students find fulfilment and happiness in doing their best in all that they take on, no matter what the outcome is.

Dr Rachel Horton
Principal

In my short time at The Armidale School, I have been amazed by the talent displayed by the student body. Yesterday during the Middle School Leaders induction assembly, I was in awe of Year 7 Peter Thompson’s cello performance of Svante Henryson’s ‘Black Run’. On Saturday before School resumed, I was lucky enough to head up to Malpas Dam to observe our rowing crews train. It was a privilege to watch the impact Zara Sherwood had on the consistency and stroke of all in the coxed four through her experience and indeed, talent. These two examples are of course more than just talent, they are the product of hard work and dedication. It truly is a pleasure to celebrate the performances of those who achieve in their areas of passion.  

I believe that great performances are not few and far between but require close observation. The performances that often go unnoticed are the vast majority of students who complete tasks that ‘don’t require talent’ to a high standard. For the students who wear their uniform correctly, arrive on time and always try their best; they make a significant contribution to the school and indeed the experience of others. While these actions may not require talent, they do require thought, care, and purpose. As a new member of the community, it is these performances that illustrate who has pride in the School and who are setting the foundation for their own personal greatness. For me, when we get this right it is truly the difference between good schools and great schools. 

Many of you would have seen US Navy Admiral William H Raven’s 2014 University of Texas Graduation Speech (better known as the ‘Make Your Bed’ speech) where he highlights this point. As Admiral McRaven stated: “The little things matter. If you can’t do the little things right, you will never be able to do the big things right.” 

I am confident that every student at TAS possesses a talent either hidden or on display for us all to appreciate and look forward to observing the breadth of these as we progress through the year. In the meantime, I look closely at those who perform tasks not requiring talent as being the key contributors to the positive culture at TAS. Those who get the little things right will be able to focus their efforts on the big things.  

Mr Ray Pearson
Deputy Principal

P&F Meeting – Wednesday at 700pm

The first P&F meeting of the year is on this week. We will meet face to face in Upper Maxwell as well as have a Zoom session running for those wishing to attend remotely. COVID rules will apply on campus and Zoom session details are enclosed. All are welcome with the added bonus of snacks and drinks for those able to attend in person.

• Join the Zoom meeting at;
• https://as-edu.zoom.us/j/2155172798?pwd=MnJBci9YeEJIendXNlZFdXIyUzlHdz09
• Meeting ID: 215 517 2798
• Password: TAS22

Connect with P&F

We have several Facebook pages providing useful information on upcoming activities as well as a place to stay in touch – we strongly recommend you join the main P&F page as well as your Year Group pages:

• TAS P&F FB page – Search ‘TAS Parents & Friends’ on Facebook
• Year Group FB pages – Search ‘TAS Year 12 XXXX’ on Facebook where XXXX is the graduating year of your child (e.g., if your child is in Year 8, search for ‘TAS Year 12 2026’). Ask to join.

If you have anything you would like to raise with the P&F Executive, please send us an email at [email protected]

Mr Paul Gaddes
P&F President

With the annual Coast Weekend postponed, last weekend saw our boarders involved in activities on-site with much fun had by all. The Slip and Slide organised by Croft House, the Inflatable in the TAS Pool, Dodgeball on Dangarfield, Inter-House Touch Football on Adamsfield and Saturday evening House dinners were all a huge success and enjoyed by both boarders and staff. I thank all boarding staff, particularly the Heads of House, for their coordination of these activities and involvement throughout the weekend.

I hope to have the 2022 Coast Weekend dates confirmed by next week.

Mr David Drain
Director of Boarding

White House

Unfortunately, White House wasn’t able to venture to Coffs Harbour for coast weekend, for now; however, a great deal of fun, re-connection, and building of new relationships were had by all.

With great help from our dedicated boarding staff, the boys were lucky enough to utilise the wonderful facilities which TAS has to offer. There was no holding back when boys immersed themselves in team games, mountain biking, TAS sport, and water activities. To top it off, Pizza and BBQ night was a true success with many boys walking away with full stomachs.

The boys should be congratulated on how they approached their first weekend away from home since arriving to TAS for the school year. There was a positive vibe in the air and a sense of belonging within the White House community.

A great start to 2022!

Mr Jamie Brauer
Head of White House

Summer Sport

Summer sport is well underway, and I am pleased to see some significant improvement in uniform and attendance. Please ensure that your son and/or daughter has the correct sports uniform each session and if they are unable to attend a training session or game, please remind them of the importance to communicate with their coach, prior to the commencement of the session.

Please find the Summer Sports Training Schedule for Term 1 2022.

Middle/Senior School Swimming Championships – Week 3

In light of the need to help reduce the risk and spread of COVID, we have made the decision to split the Swimming Championship on Friday 18 February.

As per the information below, MS and SS will have separate carnivals. Year 9 students irrespective of their age will swim in the SS Championships. Students who are underage will have their time entered into their correct age group and count towards the age and division champions. In addition, all presentations will be made at Assembly not at the Championship.

Tuesday 15 February night events 5.45 Warm-up 6.00pm-8.00pm  (Participants Only)

• 50m Butterfly Age Group
• Individual Medley JNR 12/13/14
• Individual Medley INT 15/16
• Individual Medley SNR 17/18

Thursday 17 February night events 5.45pm Warm-up 6.00pm-8.30pm  (Participants Only)

100m Freestyle Age Group

• 200m JNR 12/13/14
• 200m INT 15/16
• 200m SNR 17/18
• OPEN Boy Medley Relay
• OPEN Girl Medley Relay
• 6 x 50m Tooth n’ Nail (Swimmer from Year 6/7,8,9,10,11,12)

Friday 18 February – ONLY Year 12 Parents are invited to attend the SS Swimming Championship 12.30-3.30pm.
We respectfully request that you spectate on the JS side of the pool.

MS Swimming Championships Warm-up and Roll Call 8.30am first event 8.45am conclude 11.30am

MS Inter-House Games 12.30pm-3.30pm (Sports Uniform with House Shirt)

SS Inter-House Games 8.45am Roll Call -11.30am (Sports Uniform with House Shirt)

SS Swimming Championship Warm-up and Roll Call 12.15pm first event 12.30pm conclude 3.30pm

Please find the modified Swimming Championship program.

Swimming Championship Reminders

Starts will be ‘over the top’. ie the swimmer in the pool at the end of the previous race remains in the water (and holds onto the lane rope) until the next race has begun whereupon the swimmer immediately exits.

There are a huge number of heats to get through so no false starts are allowed. If you ‘false start’ you will still be allowed to swim for a ‘time’ but will not gain any points for your House or age championships in that event.

Dress will be House polo shirts and blue shorts. Day students may travel to and from TAS in the above clothing (plus shoes). All competitors must swim in TAS swimmers or navy/black race swimmers.

All competitors will wear a House swim cap. These will be provided to all students to keep. This will make it much easier for spectators to identify which house each competitor is in.

Because of the chlorine in the pool water, competitors are strongly advised to wear goggles.

You may not colour your hair, nor write on your body with a texta pen. Except for water, no food or drink may be consumed in the pool area. Students may not leave the Sports Centre area without permission from their respective Heads of House.

Times swum in these Championships will be used to determine which students will be selected in TAS teams to compete at NCIS carnival.

Mr Huon Barrett
Director of Co-curricular

Mountain Biking

On Monday evening the TAS Mountain Biking Team took to the track to compete in the first race of the New England Mountain Bikers Summer Series. The race was held on a shortened version of the SportUNE Mountain Bike Trails, with riders aiming to complete as many laps as possible in the 35 minute time frame. With 45 students in attendance, they looked great in their new jerseys! Once the race started, everyone rode exceptionally well, with some very impressive results which can be found here https://my.raceresult.com/191750/?fbclid=IwAR3dHaFVzTKN01FTHP9wLxyPRXk3UbDTRSYwhRu8bTyfg90424onv80YMtQ

In other news, congratulations to Toby Inglis who raced at Nerang on the Gold Coast in an XCO Mountain Bike National Cup Round in the holidays. He placed 2nd in the U17s Men’s division, preparing him well for the upcoming National Mountain Bike Championships in Moderna, Tasmania later this month.

Mrs Jo Benham
MIC Mountain Biking

Armidale Triathlon Round 1 2022

Despite rain, a slight chill and the taint of COVID, the TAS Triathlon team attacked Round 1 of the Armidale Triathlon Series for 2022. With the bike leg being cancelled, the event turned into a Run/Swim/Run, students choosing between 400/100/1000 or 1000/200/2000. A squad of 26 braved the conditions to set some awesome times and for many, in their first experience of multi-sport.

Ryder Alberton and Ellie Cullen hammered the short course, winning their respective divisions, with Mila Downes, Felicity Barton and the dynamic duo of Tilly Rogers and Maddie Buntine not far behind. In the longer distance, Harrison Miller continued to display his strength, first across the line with Emily Ussher, Ashlee Morgan and Halina Saunders leading the way in the ladies section. It was great to see our Year 12s, Grace Pennington and Temicka Segrave, striding out on the run. My thanks to all who attended, setting a wonderful standard for the term.

Mr James Pennington

TAS Hockey Club AGM

The TAS Hockey Club will be holding its AGM on Wednesday 16 February at the
Wicklow Hotel, starting at 6pm.
All positions on the board will be available and we would love as many of our
supporters to attend the meeting.
Preparations for the 2022 season need to commence as the senior men’s and
women’s competition is due to commence 19/20 March.
Look forward to seeing you all.

Mrs Tania Ball Ms Ingrid Steddy
MICs TAS Hockey

It’s a new year and we’re being cautiously optimistic in the Creative Arts, with eased restrictions allowing students to return to doing what they love in the classroom and the co-curricular program: we’ve had some Music items return to assembly and our ensembles and bands are starting to meet once more; Rhinoceros, Theatresports, and the Technical Production Team are already getting busy; new artworks will soon fill the foyer after work from Term 4 2021 gets a final showing. And before the end of the term, we hope we’ll have public performances to start showcasing the talents and hard work of our students.

Rhinoceros is underway, with our first rehearsal last weekend and a busy schedule ahead of us. With performances moved back to early Term 2 we have some breathing space and feel much more confident about the preparation of the show. There are plenty of opportunities for students to volunteer to assist with the show, as announced by Mr Pennington, so please contact him to sign up for those Service opportunities.

Ms Roobol, Mr Collett and Miss Low are excited to have the co-curricular Music program fully on its feet by next week. Contact them to get involved (if they don’t chase you down first) and make sure you’re welcoming the peripatetic teachers back to campus after their time away.

Mr Wheatley will be sending out emails about Theatresports at TAS – for those who are unfamiliar, it involves fun improvised acting games with wacky rules that teams play and compete with one another. We’re hopeful we’ll be able to host a Theatresports carnival at TAS later in the term, and we’ll be selecting our teams firstly from the Theatresports Club. Make sure you touch base with him to be involved in this fun opportunity.

We have a number of ideas for revitalising the Arts this year and we’re so keen to have parents and friends back on campus to celebrate the amazing school culture. So watch this space!

Mr Andrew O’Connell
Head of Creative Arts

Settling into a good routine takes time, for some a little longer than others. But I am very pleased as I walk around Junior School to see how settled our students are. I am hoping this is reflected at home…(it certainly appears to be given the lack of inquiries we are fielding at the moment.) Having said that, it is busy. To keep abreast of all the events and activities, please read TAS Talks carefully, keep your eye on the TAS calendar and pick up the phone if you need assistance!?

Parent Information Evenings

Yesterday, we held the first of our Parents Information evenings and they were very well attended. They provide a great opportunity to exchange information and they are very beneficial for all concerned. Please stay in touch with your teachers and let us know how the year is unfolding for you. The times are:

• 6.00 – 7. 00 pm           Tuesday February 8 – Kindergarten, Year 2 and Year 4
• 6.00 – 7. 00 pm           Thursday February 10 – Year 1, Year 3 and Year 5

Year 5 Leadership

Preparations are now well in place for the election of our Year 5 House Leaders this afternoon. Our leadership program, along with that throughout the rest of the school is under review. Along with our SRC, it is something we feel we could be doing more consistently and with greater efficacy. As an important element of our IB PYP program, student agency has become a key focus and I am hopeful that this will create renewed interest and vigour to what we do and the aspirations of our students. Stay tuned.

Arrivals and Departures

We feel that arrivals and departures from the turning circle are working well. Clearly, some days are better than others and wet weather tests everyone’s patience. If you have feedback for us, please let us know. In the meantime, please follow the signage and ensure that traffic flows carefully and with real caution. Reflections on the windscreen often creates difficulties for staff so please keep your FAMILY NAME attached to the passenger sun visor for easy car identification as it can be easily seen and read from a distance. Your support assists us all to keep the system operating smoothly. 

General Consent Forms

General Consent forms were emailed out to all parents this week. If you did not receive one, please contact us to ensure your email details are correctly recorded. This consent for local excursions eliminates the paperwork required for minor excursions that occur in each class from time to time. All major excursions (Lake Keepit, da Vinci Decathlon in Sydney, Representative sport, etc) will be notified using a specific excursion form and information letter.

Lake Keepit – Week 4

Parents of students from Year 2 to 5 have now received letters about the upcoming excursion to Lake Keepit. Important information is included, especially the need to register your child through the Sport & Rec website and completing the appropriate consent forms for the school. Please complete this as soon as possible and if necessary contact the school for assistance. The link for doing so will only be available until Friday 11 February. You will also have recently received the school’s digital consent form via email. Please ensure this too is completed as soon as possible.

Supervision in Junior School

Another quick reminder, that the daily supervision in Junior School begins at 8.10 am. If children are arriving earlier for clubs or other teacher-supervised activities, they must remain there with the teacher at all times.

And after school, it is important that students do not wander unsupervised, while they wait for other activities (sport, late collection etc) and we will request that the After School Club service is used to minimise the risks.  

Happy Birthday

Many happy returns to Harry Kauffmann, Sabine Kiehne, Poppy O’Brien, Pearl Redwood, Anna Trevaskis and Maggie Wood for their birthdays this week.

Mr Ian Lloyd
Head of Junior School

Summer Sports

What a great start to our Term 1 Summer sports program. It was wonderful to see many children enjoying their chosen sport on Monday afternoon. Please keep an eye out for emails from your child’s coach in relation to games commencing next week.

Gymnastics

Just a reminder that children attending Gymnastics at the Armidale Gymnastics Centre won’t return to TAS until 5pm. Alternatively, you can email one of the teachers below to indicate if you would prefer to pick your child up from the Gymnastics Centre at 4:45pm

• Anna O’Connor          [email protected]
• Tania Hardin               [email protected]
• Lana Hawksford         [email protected]

Junior School Swimming Carnival 

All children will bring home a swimming nomination form this week. Children may nominate in as many events as they wish to, however, if your child can swim 50m they must enter the 50m event only (not the 25m and the 50 event).

The 25m events are organised for those who cannot swim 50m.

Please return all swimming nomination forms to your class teacher by Friday 11 February. More information about our Junior School Swimming carnival will be in next week’s TAS talks.

Mrs Christine Wright
Junior School Sports Coordinator

Junior Basketball Camp

With the busyness of back-to-school last week, I didn’t get an opportunity to report on the Junior School Basketball Camp that was held at TAS over the break. We had 21 students from years 2-4 learn new skills over 2 full days and concluded with pizzas and a movie.

The importance of this event was highlighted by the dedication of the coaches, with Mr Arndt coming back from Wollongong, and Nick O’Neil (Basketball Captain 2021) returning early from ‘Schoolies’ to help out.

The excitement of the basketball camp has continued in 2022, with a large increase in uptake in the Junior School.

Training started last week, with games at The Den likely starting next week.

There will be an email to the basketball families once we confirm Monday competition start dates, and the registration process.

Mr Ken Secker
Coach