May, 2023
Summary view
Full view2023 Non-Government School Census Collection
The Australian Government Department of Education would like to advise all staff, parents and guardians that it will collect certain information about the school, its staff and student body as part of the 2023 Non-Government School Census collection.
The Census provides information about the school and the number and characteristics of the school’s staff and student body during a specific reference period during Term 3 this year.
The names of students and staff are not collected, apart from the name, position and contact details of the staff member nominated as the primary contact for the Census.
Download further information here or send an email to the Trinity College Business Manager for further details.
2023 French Exchange
A group of 21 students and teachers has recently returned from an exciting trip to Mâcon and Paris as part of the French Exchange.
The journey was an amazing, life-changing trip for the students, which provided incredible learning experiences. Students were able to practice their French language skills while out and about as well as with their host families, a task that required them to draw on logic, working memory and creativity to understand and to make themselves understood. The students also worked on their resilience, independence and problem-solving skills in a real-life environment.
The next exchange, scheduled to take place in 2025, will mark the 20th anniversary of this program and we look forward to marking this milestone in many special ways.
If you’d like to see more photos of the students and teachers in France – visit the trip Facebook page here.
2023 Gymkhana A Great Success!
With 100 riders from 32 different schools across South Australia, our Trinity riders produced excellent at last Friday’s Gymkhana.
Trinity won the Iris Stephenson Memorial Trophy for Best Secondary School on Parade and came equal third with Investigator College for the Interschool Gymkhana Perpetual Trophy.
See our riders’ points throughout the day here.
- Alexys (Year 10) placed first in the Pleasure Hack class in the Encourage Show Horse ring as well as winning the Steppingstones novelty event.
- Brittney (Year 6) placed first in the Learner’s Mount (Year 4 – 6) class in the Topsy Ring.
- Elena (Year 7) placed first in the Pair of Ponies in the Open Show Horse ring
- Evelyn (Year 10) placed first in the Pleasure Hack class in the Open Show Horse ring.
- Jana (Year 8) placed first in the Learners Mount (Years 7 – 9) class in the Topsy Ring.
- Paige (Year 8) placed first in the Best Presented Hack in the Encourage Show Horse ring.
- Sam (Year 2) placed first in the Rider (Reception – Year 3) class in the Encourage Show Horse ring.
- Zahara (Year 6) placed first in the Child Handler (Year 4 – 6) and Best Tail Rider (Year 4 – 6) classes in the Topsy Ring.
Our volunteers for the day were exceptional; their enthusiasm to help wherever needed was most appreciated. Feedback from the participating schools was positive and made all the hard work behind the scenes worthwhile.
If you haven’t viewed the video of some of the day's action on the College’s Facebook page, its well worth the look!
Thank you for your support of the students and staff involved.
Source: Leanne Trippa, Equestrian Club
Trinity Receives Three Australian Education Awards
The annual Australian Education Awards is the leading independent awards event. The awards showcase the top-performing schools, principals, department heads and teachers for their outstanding achievements and transformative work that makes a profound difference to the lives of young people across Australia.
In 2023 we are thrilled to announce Trinity College has once again been recognised as a leader in education securing three awards.
Grok Academy Innovation In Curriculum Design - Blackham Environmental and Conservation Centre
This award recognises excellence in curriculum design in an Australian school.
The Trinity College Blackham Environmental and Conservation Centre (BECC) has a new initiative to provide diverse, inclusive, and engaging outdoor experiences for younger students. Its programs safely take students out of their comfort zone and encourage them to develop their self-confidence and mental fortitude by taking safe risks. By incorporating First Nations’ history and culture and teaching the importance of sustainable living, the BECC allows students to develop a deeper appreciation for our nation’s cultural diversity and the beauty and fragility of our environment. This alternate learning environment fosters student curiosity and imagination and encouraged problem-solving and collaboration amongst the students.
Grok Academy Best Stem Program - SPARK Program
This award recognises the most outstanding STEM-based project or education program implemented by a school in Australia.
The Trinity College SPARK program received the prestigious title of "2022 STEMM Educator of the Year at the South Australian Science Excellence and Innovation Awards”. This acknowledges a team of educators who have delivered a holistic learning experience for our students and promote lifelong learning, interdisciplinary connections, and technological innovations.
The SPARK immersive experience features six workshops that are designed to align with the Digital Technologies National Curriculum, create cross-curricula connections, highlight diverse industry connections, and empower students to become inquirers, analysts, and innovators. Students are shown how to use new hardware, actively encouraged to innovate and be creative problem-solvers.
Department Head of the Year - Samantha Andonis
This award recognises the most outstanding department head in a school in Australia.
Samantha has a proven track record of leading the way for women in the field of STEM and Innovation having been presented with the;
- 2022 SA Science Excellence & Innovation Awards – STEMM Educator of the Year (Team).
- 2021 Australian Education Awards – Department Head of the Year (Excellence Awardee)
- 2021 SA Science Excellence & Innovation Awards – STEMM Educator of the Year (Finalist)
These public acknowledgements are testament to Samantha's exceptional contributions to STEM education and her dedication to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.
The Trinity College SPARK Program was announced as the winner of the STEMM Educator of the Year – Primary or Secondary School Level Category at the SA Science & Innovation Awards on Friday 25 November.
The Trinity College SPARK Program is a future-oriented STEM curriculum. Through an immersive five-day experience, students engage in interdisciplinary and technological themed learning activities that develop inquiry skills, computational thinking and creativity.
The design, implementation and evaluation of the SPARK Program at Trinity College has truly been a team effort and the impact on teaching and learning has been published in the Mathematics Education Research Journal.
As exemplary educators, innovative curriculum writers and contemporary researchers, the team of Samantha Andonis, Steve Grant, Wayne Jaeschke and Sion Harman are at the forefront of STEM education and are leading educational innovation throughout South Australia. Click on the image below to watch a short video about the Trinity College SPARK Program.
Trinity College has once again been recognised nationally with an Excellence Award in the Australian Education Awards 2022 Best STEM Program category for the ‘SPARK’ initiative.
The ‘SPARK’ initiative is a future orientated STEM and digital technology program. It involves seven specialist STEM educators facilitating a session and implementing pedagogical strategies to promote student agency and problem-solving, and to showcase how digital technologies can enrich learning.
One component of ‘SPARK’ is a 5-day immersive experience where Year 7 and Year 8 students engage in interdisciplinary and technological themed learning experiences that develop inquiry skills, computational thinking and creativity.
The SPARK immersive experience includes:
- Doctor Drones: Using the Engineering Design process, students collaboratively build a drone attachment to successfully fly medical supplies to the remote areas of Nepal. Designs, routes and written programmes were evaluated for efficiency to encourage refinement.
- Robotic Engineering: Students become robotics engineers needing to solve the technological challenges associated with autonomous cars. The robotic vehicles were coded to move at various angles and use advanced sensors to measure distances and aspects of tilting.
- Technology in Sport: To understand the role of data in society, students wore GPS trackers to monitor physical performance. Students applied scientific inquiry skills to inform goal-setting and team tactics.
- Mathematics of 3D printing: By applying mathematical concepts such as measurement and geometry, students were challenged to remodel the generic “spinning top”. 3D models were programmed using TinkerCAD, and once 3D printed, were tested and evaluated.
- Do Your Bit: Using the Design Thinking Process, students prototyped a device that would promote positive mental health. To establish empathy, students brainstormed the local and global social challenges faced by children, adults and the elderly. Once a target audience was selected, students created sketches and programmed the BBC Micro:Bit to sense environmental stimuli and incorporate user inputs.
This award recognises excellence in the use of education technology by an Australian school. When judging this category the criteria considered was:
- How the technology has fulfilled a need in or outside the classroom
- Impact of the technology on the school
- Change management and implementation process
- Evidence the technology has supported student learning outcomes
The Trinity Innovation and Creativity School (TICS) in its first year of operation continues to help us meet the challenges of a greater reliance on technological solutions but permits us to explore new technologies, develop teacher capacity and lead the way with STEM programmes.
This award recognises the most outstanding professional (staff) learning and development program or initiative implemented in an Australian school. When judging this category the criteria considered was:
- Innovation and excellence in program design and delivery
- Demonstrated support for individual professional learning and links to individual and school-wide learning priorities
- Contribution to improved student learning outcomes
- Effective collaboration, reflection and feedback
Recently nine staff were presented with Professional Learning Certificates in Future Oriented Learning (PCFOL) which is a key component of the work of the Education Futures unit at UniSA to understand how to best implement and sustain innovation in schools. In 2020 staff participated in the PCFOL through the Trinity Research Institute This work is led by Mr Wayne Jaeschke (Director of Research & Learning Services) and the result is a whole-of-College engagement in data-informed professional learning that transforms education and builds new understanding about the way schools develop the capacities students need to flourish in a rapidly changing world.
The College is thrilled to announce that STEM Co-Ordinator, Ms Samantha Wyatt has been acknowledged as the Best Department Head of the Year by the judges of the Australian Education Awards.
This award recognises the most outstanding department head in a school in Australia. When judging this category the criteria considered was:
- Demonstrated commitment and drive to lead
- Consistently high standards of teaching
- Leadership of innovation and improvement in curriculum delivery and student learning
- Commitment to professional development and collaboration with colleagues to address student learning needs
- Engagement with parents and the wider school community
This National recognition for us as an organisation acknowledges how we are leading the way with the teaching of new skills, outstanding staff professional development offerings and immersing the learning experience for our students across the curriculum with technology.
The Trinity Innovation & Creativity School (TICS) completed in December 2019, was named as an Australian Education Awards 2020 Finalist in the category of, Innovation in Learning Environment Design.
The new school building (TICS) is the result of a rigorous consultation process between architects, educators, students, parents, our wider community and with our university partners. The design was informed by a growing body of knowledge in learning design for the 21st Century and reflects the increasing dependence of technology in the workplace, along with greater need for critical and creative, collaborative working skills.
The TICS design features spaces intended to reflect that pedagogical shift – with flexible, fluid spaces; being multi-textural and multi-purpose; with embedded and integrated collaborative ICT services; break-out spaces alongside classrooms and a lecture theatre, with facilities for VR and 360-degree immersive environments.
Technology chosen for TICS reflects the need for students to be across industry standard tools in a variety of different areas. Additive manufacturing (commercial grade 3D printers), virtual reality and 360 projection are examples of technologies that are becoming key for students to participate in emerging industries.
The College is developing in students a self-directed approach to learning. This learning space gives students the opportunity to develop greater ownership of the learning environment. From the ability to make their own room bookings, to the many breakout spaces on offer, the design of this learning space enables students to craft their own experience. For example, view Year 8 student Ryan who has produced his own podcast “The Road to the Big Time” available on Spotify and Youtube.
Trinity College seeks to improve educational practice to support young people to succeed personally and academically at school and, in their lives beyond school. With our University partners, Trinity has co-developed a research agenda which has deepened the capacity of teaching staff to engage in powerful and purposeful reflection and evaluation of educational practices within this new space. Teachers will be upskilled in educational research, and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in 21st Century learning spaces through Masters and PhD study and publication.
The Educator’s sixth annual Innovative Schools list reveals fifty schools making the most profound and exciting impact in Kindergarten to Year 12 education. Trinity College was named in this list from over 300 schools.
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced Australian schools to implement massive changes to their existing models as face-to-face classes shifted online.
While this no doubt posed enormous challenges across all areas of education, parental engagement and student wellbeing, some schools saw some unique and exciting opportunities to innovative and improve the way they deliver teaching and learning, not just in 2020 but well beyond the pandemic.
Education professionals are constantly looking for new ways to enhance student learning and engagement and increase productivity. Schools around the country are implementing new initiatives, technology and methods of learning and teaching that are moving the education industry forward.
The Educator Innovative Schools report seeks to showcase those schools at the forefront of change and innovation. From new learning spaces to curriculum design, use of technology and more, these schools are trying new approaches to teaching and learning that are shaping the educational landscape of the future. Find out more here.
China Trip to Singapore a Great Success
During the recent school holidays students from across the College along with Chinese teachers Ms Bu and Mr Sun travelled to Singapore for the bi-annual China trip.
The trip was a great success and was a very productive journey for all participants who enjoyed eight days of exploration and cultural exchange. Highlights included a tour around the city sights as well as visits to the Singapore Science Centre and Singapore Fly Ride, Marina Barrage and Sustainable Gallery as well as the New Water Visitor Centre and a visit to a local high school
Ms Bu and Mr Sun report that everyone had a great time and all students represented the College and Australia in a positive and proud manner.
Distinguished Service Awards
One of the highlights of the College AGM each year is the public acknowledgment of staff who have qualified for our Distinguished Service Award which celebrates 20 years of service.
On Monday evening this week we acknowledged these Trinity College and STARplex staff for their service;
Donna Brand, Monica Daju, Ian Dale, Jane Fraser, Dale Halliday, Kerrie Henstridge, Susan Philp, Jana Pridham, Matthew Skeen, Cherrie Stocks, Jennifer Stone, Joseph Sun, Kaylene Targett, Susan Twigger, Wendy Underwood and Rebecca Ward.
We also extend our thanks to current parents and College staff who attended the AGM both in person and on-line to achieve our quorum.
Trinity Students Excel at Generations in Jazz
Last week students in the Stage Band 1 and our Jazz Vocal Ensemble travelled to Mount Gambier to attend the Generations in Jazz event. Competing with over 4500 other students from 83 schools from all states, our music students were immersed in a world of jazz unlike anything they had experienced before.
Congratulations to Andrew Newhouse and the Stage Band 1 who took out second place in their division - an enormous achievement that we were not expecting.
While the Vocal Ensemble didn’t place in the top three, they achieved the fifth highest score in a division with 27 other schools. The level of performance in the vocal division was exceptionally high, so this result is also huge and we couldn’t be prouder of the students in this group!
The feedback from the adjudicator was very positive and this group performed the best they have ever performed.
And finally, each Stage Band division selects individuals from all the schools to form a superband - similar to the All Australian AFL team selection. These selections are incredibly difficult to receive and I am so excited to report that Elyse Fechner (Year 9) was selected on trumpet for the superband and incredible achievement!
We had an amazing weekend and thanks must go to Andrew Newhouse for his work with the Stage Band and for his support of this trip and music and Trinity.
It was never about winning for our Stage Band and Vocal Ensemble but performing at their best and learning, growing and developing from the experience.
Source: Kristy Triantafilakis, Director of Co-Curricular Music
Trinity College Foundation Turns Dreams into Reality
A Trinity College education can help turn a dream into a reality. While many of our students have great abilities, some may not always have the opportunity to fulfil them. The Trinity College Foundation was established in 1995 with the vision of creating a world of opportunity for students who attend the College and since its inception, every cent donated has gone towards fulfilling this aim.
The Foundation facilitates fundraising for special projects throughout the College and provides funding for ongoing scholarships as well as supports students to participate in Operation Flinders and aids students in need through the Spirit of Trinity Fund.
As current students are the recipients of past generosity, future generations depend on the continuing and vital support of current parents, old scholars and friends of the College. Funds are raised through donations, sponsorship and special events like the annual Trinity Foundation Dinner and silent auction.
Now in its twenty fifth year this annual event attracts a wide cross section of our community including parents, friends, staff, College suppliers and old scholars. In addition to a wonderful night of entertainment, guests enjoy a sumptuous three course dinner and the opportunity to place a bid for one or more of the exciting donated auction items to help raise money to support the Foundation. The 2023 event – A Foundation Glitter Ball will be held on Friday 23 June at the National Wine Centre. Tickets can be purchased online here.
If you’re unable to attend, we invite families to donate non-perishable items to create gourmet hampers that are included in the silent auction. Sweet or savoury, all items will be gratefully received including chocolate bars, chocolate boxes, sweet biscuits, savoury biscuits, crackers, coffee, tea, olive oil, nuts, olives, dried fruit, coffee, tea, drinking chocolate or any other non-perishable gourmet item. Donations can be delivered to the Foundation Office or placed in the Foundation Dinner donation box located in your school’s front office. Every donation, no matter how small, will be a big help!
The lives of the students at Trinity College has been enriched by those who have helped shape our College by giving in the past - now you can play a part in ensuring the generous spirit that helped shape our College continues.
For further information please visit the Trinity College Foundation webpage, telephone the Foundation Office on 8523 8724 or send us an email to foundation@trinity.sa.edu.au.
Students and Old Scholar at SA Motorcycle Road Race
While many Trinity families were hunting for chocolate eggs over the Easter weekend, two current students, Georgia (Year 12) and Xayvion (Year 7) as well as old scholar Paul van der Heiden (1997) made the journey to one of the country’s premier motorcycle racing events at McNamara Park Raceway in Mount Gambier. Not only did the weekend mark the start of South Australia’s racing season it also hosted the annual Easter Cup which attracts racers from nation wide to compete at this 2.4km long circuit which boast 110 years of racing history.
Georgia unveiled her freshly designed #22 Yamaha R3 and put down some solid lap times in what proved to be some very testing rain-soaked conditions to qualify in the middle of the pack with fierce competition in front and behind in both the limited class as well as the hotly contested super sport 300cc category. Whilst constantly hassled by wet weather racing, Georgia battled consistently against highly experienced local and interstate riders making convincing passes at turn one and showing off impeccable top speed drafting along the undulating back straight and ended the weekend with a solid standing to the start of the season.
Xayvion piloted the MSA owned bike #7 bLU cRU to contest the South Australian Junior Cup as well as his own bright yellow #333 Yamaha R15 in the Junior state titles. Facing some stiff interstate competition in bLU cRU Xayvion qualified in position three on the grid and rounded out the weekend with a third, second, second and second in his respective races to take home second place overall. While the #333 bike was less competitive than he would’ve wished, Xayvion battled well putting down a number of PBs and reaching lean angles low enough to drag an elbow around pine tree corner.
Old scholar Paul van der Heiden continues to be a well-respected personality in the road race scene of South Australia and on track consistently rode with the front runners in the superbikes category astride his 1000cc #76 BMW. Finishing only just outside the podium positions during the state titles round, Paul was able to pull something special out of his bag of tricks for the Easter Cup feature race to take out third place whilst keeping pace with first and second and lapping a whopping two seconds faster than his next closest competitor.
With round two coming up at the international Tailem Bend circuit in July and a round in Phillip Island in September, they’re already anticipating a nail-biting season which is due to finish up at the local Mallala Motorsport Park in mid-November.
Source: Daniel Amoy
