Term 1 | The Way Newsletter | Friday 21 March 2025

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From the Principal
Principal

There is much to recognise and celebrate in this edition of The Way. Last week we held a service for the 25th anniversary of the College and opened the new STEM building. It was a fabulous occasion and I want to specifically commend the students who attended for their exemplary behaviour. The student leaders had the opportunity to meet our guest speaker – Dr Lewis Jones from the university of NSW. He inspired us all to see God’s design in Science and how they go together. Dr Jones wrote to thank the College and to acknowledge the students – ‘I thoroughly enjoyed myself and was so impressed with the students…They were positively engaged with life and are a credit to their parents and staff and teachers and the vision for education that you have together created and fostered.’

We have also completed NAPLAN for another year and held our two cross country carnivals. Again, I want to commend the students for their efforts and commitment. It is wonderful to walk around the College and observe so many of the students actively learning and concentrating in their lessons. Today, the Senior Boys’ Football Team competed in the CIS Football Cup against Central Coast Adventist School. This is another great example of how learning occurs – the boys operated as a team, they encouraged each other, and their skill was evident. Congratulations on a well-deserved win.

CIS Soccer

 

I am meeting students as often as possible as they arrive on the buses each morning. It is a wonderful way to start my day. Hearing them thank the bus drivers, help younger students with their bags and greet me is a joy.

I also want to start a conversation with you all about the impact of online interactions on young people. You will be aware that there is new legislation coming into effect in December 2025. The aim of these new laws is to establish a minimum age of 16 for social media use and to place responsibility on social media platforms for the safety of their users. In 2023 all government schools introduced a policy to restrict phone use onsite. At Thomas Hassall we require students to use the College issued pouch during the day as a secure place for phones and to promote a safe environment for all students. We understand that social media platforms can be a great way to connect with our families and friends but it is also a danger to young people who do not understand the impact of their choices. Please continue to have discussions with your children regarding phone use and interactions. It is never okay to film other children and there are legal implications surrounding the sharing of photos and videos online.

“For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities–all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”

Colossians 1:16-17

Mrs Karen Easton
Principal
From the Deputy Principal & Head of Senior School
David Butler

It is that wonderful part of the term when after settling into classes, most students will be undergoing or preparing for their first assessment tasks in many of their subjects.

  • What strategies have they been using to revise their notes, connect the various themes, memorise their quotes or formulas and prepare themselves to perform at their best?
  • Have they been spending time at home in well organised and quiet spaces working hard?
  • Have they reached out to their teacher for clarification on something they have been confused about in their personal study?
  • Have they utilised the maths tutoring available in J block on Tuesdays – Thursdays or visited the Study Centre one afternoon to get some help from some of our graduates who is a subject expert?
  • What measures have you put in place to assist your child – perhaps ensuring a younger sibling is active in another part of the house or are you minding your child’s phone so it won’t distract them?
  • Have you designated a few weeks each term where the Playstation or Xbox is placed in a cupboard?
  • Do you test them on the facts they have to memorise?

I hear so many stories of supportive families from students I mentor or teach and it is wonderful for the staff team to know that so many families understand that the work outside of school hours is vitally important for the consolidation and conversion of school time learning into a deep understanding. Most Year 11 or 12 students around the state would be spending at least a couple of hours each night on their studies.

I was pleased to read of Mrs Easton’s encouragement around the perils of social media and I likewise would like to encourage families to have safeguards in place such as the charging of phones in a family space, restrictions on Wi-Fi after certain hours of each day and having trusted family members in all of the online groups your children are involved in. We use a cool auntie and some older cousins, and I am confident you will have similar measures in place. In the Senior School years, whilst we have guidelines in place and staff members who are vigilant, it is often the levels of personal responsibility a teenager has that will define their behaviours in regards to their phone use in more public settings. We will continue to partner with you in the education of your child on the responsible use of their smart phones through our wellbeing programs, special guest speakers and also through our regular use of police liaison officers to discuss the legalities in the space with each year group. It is certainly an area that we will continue to be looking at in regards to best practice. At present we are considering exactly when we will require students to place their phones in their pouches, as we are finding quite a few students are active on their phones prior to the school day beginning. I spend a lot of time each afternoon with students as we wait for the public buses to arrive and those down time discussions between students as they wait for their buses seems to have been replaced by entertainment-based phone use. Maybe further consideration should be given here also….

Happy studying to all students this weekend and in the recovery from the tug of war and many kilometres run at the Cross Country carnival!

Mr David Butler
Deputy Principal & Head of Senior School
From the Chaplain
Denis Oliver

Cross country running is a unique challenge. Unlike a sprint or a neatly marked track race, cross country often winds through unpredictable terrain—hills, mud, and forests—with no finish line in sight until the very end. Runners push forward, trusting the course map and the markers along the way, even when they can’t see the destination. In many ways, this uncertainty mirrors Abraham’s journey of faith in Genesis 12:1-3.

When God called Abraham, He didn’t give him a clear map or an obvious finish line. Instead, He simply said, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you” (Gen 12:1). Abraham had to trust that God would lead him to the right place, just as cross-country runners must trust the course.

Yet when Abraham finally arrived in Canaan, the land God had promised, he did not take possession of it. Instead, he lived as a foreigner, knowing that the true fulfillment of God’s promise would come to his descendants in the distant future (Gen 15:13-16). This must have been difficult - running the race faithfully, only to realize that the finish line was still beyond reach. But Abraham continued to trust in God’s plan, understanding that his journey was part of something much bigger than himself.

cross country

Abraham’s faithfulness wasn’t just for his own sake—it was for the generations after him. He followed God not because he would see all the blessings in his lifetime, but because his obedience would shape the future. This is much like being a Christian parent. Parents raise their children in faith, not only for their own spiritual journey but to pass on God’s promises and truth to the next generation. Just as Abraham trusted God for the future of his descendants, Christian parents invest in their children’s faith, knowing that the seeds they plant today will bear fruit in the future.

Cross country runners don’t run aimlessly. They follow the markers, listen to their coaches, and trust the process. In the same way, Christians are called to trust God’s direction, even when the path isn’t clear. Like Abraham, we may not always see the finish line, but we can run with faith, knowing that God’s promises will lead us to something greater.
Reverend Denis Oliver
College Chaplain
From the Senior School Director of Teaching and Learning
Jason CB

Navigating Challenges in Teaching and Learning

Teaching and learning are complex processes. Every 50 minutes, a diverse group of adolescents gathers with a professionally trained educator to engage with the curriculum set by NESA. Each student brings their own experiences, attitudes, abilities, and perspectives—many of which can change from day to day. Likewise, teachers, while always striving for professionalism, bring their own experiences and personalities, and like everyone, they have both good and challenging days.

For the vast majority of the time, classrooms are positive, productive spaces where students flourish under the teacher’s guidance. However, there may be moments when, in a lapse of judgment, teachers say or do something that does not align with expectations. Similarly, students, in moments of immaturity or impulsiveness, may act in ways that fall short of our shared standards.

Such moments can affect the teacher-student relationship and, in turn, impact learning. When concerns arise with teachers, we encourage students to first address them directly with their teacher, either in person or via email. In most cases, teachers are receptive to feedback and will take steps to address concerns or provide an opportunity for reconciliation. Teachers prefer this direct approach, as it fosters mutual respect and resolution.

If a teacher appears unwilling or unable to engage with the concern, parents and students are welcome to escalate the matter to the relevant coordinator, Director, or Senior Executive. It is important to acknowledge that perceptions can differ, sometimes making situations seem unclear. However, by prioritising open and honest communication, we strengthen the essential partnership between teachers, students, and parents—ensuring the best possible environment for learning and growth.

Mr Jason Corbett-Jones
Director of Teaching & Learning - Senior School

Upcoming dates

Date Event


Thursday 27 March 

College Insights with Mrs Easton at 5PM

Dr Justin Coulson Presentation at 6PM - BOOK NOW
Friday 28 March Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Hike Depart
 Friday 4 April  Movie Night at 5.30PM - BOOK NOW
Friday 11 April  Junior School Easter Hat Parade

Please see Sports Update articles for all important sporting dates.  
Open Week 2025

Last Saturday, we concluded our Open Week with a full day of tours and activities across the College. It was a well-organized and informative event and we are proud of how everything unfolded.

Our students played a key role in assisting with various activities including hospitality. They welcomed and supported visiting families throughout the day and their efforts were appreciated by many. We received positive feedback from visitors, highlighting how well our students represented the College.

open week 1
open week 2

We would also like to thank our staff members, who led the tours and ensured the day ran smoothly. Their guidance and knowledge were essential in helping prospective families learn more about what our College offers.

A special thanks goes to our Parent Volunteers for sharing their experiences and offering support throughout the day. Your involvement was a great help and contributed to the success of the event.

As we reflect on the day, we appreciate the teamwork and dedication from all involved. We look forward to continuing these efforts in the future and building a strong sense of community within the College.
Official Opening of the John Flynn Centre

On Thursday, March 6, we proudly celebrated our 25th anniversary with the official opening of our new STEM building, the John Flynn Centre. This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.

We were honored to welcome esteemed guests, including Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun, Anne Stanley MP, Member for Werriwa and Nathan Hagarty MP, State Member for Leppington. Their support highlights the vital role of STEM education in shaping future leaders and innovators.

Named after Reverend John Flynn, founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, the John Flynn Centre stands on Flynn Avenue, which was also named in his honor. We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone involved in bringing this vision to life.

EventsBack to Top

Dr Justin Coulson Presents

Is your child struggling with setbacks? Do you worry they’re not equipped to handle life’s challenges? “How can I help my child be more resilient?” is a question Dr Justin Coulson, renowned parenting expert, often hears from worried mums and dads.

In Resilience: Developing Strength, Calm & Kindness in Our Kids, Dr Justin will be sharing his groundbreaking approach to building resilience in children. You’ll learn the psychological secrets that build your child’s sense of identity, strengths, and growth mindset in order to perform better, be happier, and build resilience. Discover practical strategies to help your child thrive in the face of adversity and reduce your own parenting stress.

Dr Justin will explain the factors that help and hinder resilience, why common advice such as “toughen up, Princess” just doesn’t work, and how competition and praise may undermine resilience.

Using powerful stories and illustrations that every parent can relate to, this session will show you how to help your child cope positively with the challenges that life throws at them.

John Lambert Auditorium
Date: Thursday 27 March, 2025
Time: 6:00pm
Parking will be available onsite

This is a free event, bookings are now open and are essential. 
You're Invited: "College Insights" with the Principal

College Insights: An Information session about Academic Results & Student Learning

Many parents have questions about academic results—how they’re structured, what they mean and what to expect for their child. After ongoing discussions through emails and at the Parent Café, we’re offering a chance to explore these topics in a relaxed and open setting.

Join Principal Karen Easton for a casual information session on Thursday 27 March at 5pm in our new STEM Building. This session will provide insight into how academic results work, how students learn, and what this means for your child’s progress. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions throughout the session.

This is also a great chance to visit our John Flynn Centre for STEM, a purpose-built space designed to support hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

For those attending the Wellbeing Matters event at 6pm, this session is conveniently scheduled beforehand, making it easy to attend both.

We look forward to seeing you there!
Movie Night

Join us for a movie night as we watch THE WILD ROBOT

Friday 4 April | 5.30pm

This is a free event and everyone is welcome. Gates open at 5.30pm with food trucks and entertainment. The movie will begin at 6.30pm.

Bring your picnic rug and blanket and join us on the oval. In the event of wet weather, the event will move indoors.

Gift Donation
If you have a business that would like to donate to our pre-movie activities, please contact us [email protected]

Your company name and logo will be displayed on the big screen before the movie commences.

WellbeingBack to Top

Screens and Teens

A common topic of conversation I have had with parents at the College, both as a Year Advisor and now as ICT leader, is how to monitor and manage their child’s use of laptops and phones. Technology has brought so many benefits to education; it enhances engagement in the classroom, assists with study and revision, cuts down on paperwork, allows us to communicate quickly and easily with you as parents, and saves students carrying around the heavy trove of textbooks that we had to when we were at school! However, it also raises questions about how to set boundaries and support healthy screen habits.

Here at the College, our boundaries over device use are made clear to students:

  • If at College, phones must be in College phone pouches from 7.55am to 2.35pm each day. If students or parents need to contact each other during school hours, they can do so through the front office. If students are seen using their phones during this time, they will be asked to take them to the Senior School Hub and will receive a lunchtime detention.
  • Laptops are only to be opened in class when the teacher gives permission. While laptops are often used for textbooks and interactive learning activities, some lessons will be laptop-free. There is also an expectation in most classes that notes will still be handwritten, rather than typed.

However, these are not always foolproof, and it can be even harder to set boundaries in the home.

The best way to help your child navigate the online world is by being aware and actively engaging in conversation with your kids about their online and social media use.

Ten Tips for managing your teen’s technology

Here are ten tips to help you in this journey:

  1. Frequently talk with your child about their technology use – Ask about their favourite apps, websites, and online interactions to foster open dialogue. As I speak to parents, it’s great to hear that many of these conversations are already happening.  As part of this, make sure you create open lines of communication – reassure your child that they can come to you if they feel unsafe online.
  2. Have access to or follow your child’s accounts – Know who they are interacting with and be aware of any potential risks.
  3. Check whether they are old enough for the Social Media they are using: The government is bringing in new minimum ages for various social media sites, and if your child is under the minimum age, don’t let them create an account.
  4. Use filters and parental controls – Tools such as Family Zone and Covenant Eyes can help manage access to inappropriate content.
  5. Set time limits on device use – Encourage balance by allocating specific times for study, relaxation, and screen-free activities.
  6. Charge devices outside the bedroom – Keeping both laptops and phones in a public area overnight, such as the kitchen or dining room, can prevent late-night screen use and improve sleep quality. It’s also essential for school that devices are adequately charged for the next day, so it’s a win-win!
  7. Encourage stopping computer use an hour before bed – This allows the brain and eyes to wind down for a better night’s sleep. Encouraging your child to read before bed instead of being on their device may also promote literacy.
  8. Model healthy digital habits – Children learn by example, so demonstrating good technology use yourself is essential.
  9. Encourage balance – Help them find a balance between online and offline activities. Facilitating your child’s participation in social activities outside of school, such as sporting groups, extracurricular activities, youth groups and church can help your child feel connected to those around them without spending lots of time online.
  10. The Importance of Consistency - Like with all boundaries, consistency is key. Enforcing screen time rules, setting expectations, and maintaining open communication might not always be easy, but it is crucial in helping your child develop healthy technology habits. It is worth the energy investment and initial tension that having these conversations might cause!

Further resources

  • The eSafety Commissioner website (www.esafety.gov.au) provides a wealth of resources on online safety, including guidance on cyberbullying, privacy, gaming, and social media. Parents can access tips, expert advice, and step-by-step support on managing their child's online experiences. You can also use this website to report illegal online activity such as cyberbullying, to the authorities.
  • Our Director of Student Counselling, Mrs Peterson, often shares special reports and articles from SchoolsTV through this newsletter, covering topics such as screen time, internet addiction, social media, and cyberbullying. Click here to access the full range of articles, videos, and reports on SchoolsTV.
  • The College has recently subscribed to an online wellbeing platform called Wellio. Wellio is hosting a free upcoming webinar for parents on Managing Device Use: Creating Healthy Tech Habits at Home, on Thursday 22nd May at 6.30pm. Click here to register.

Mr Samuel Mills
ICT Leader, Year 8 Advisor and History Teacher

LearningBack to Top

Year 8 News

After a great camp to start the year, filled with many adventurous activities such as a giant swing, sky cycle, canoeing and high ropes, Year 8 have settled in to the rhythms of school life.

This term, we have had a special focus on ‘together’, and this has been a consistent message we have been communicating through both our Year meetings and at chapel. In our meetings, we have been encouraging students to work as a team, to treat others the way they would wish to be treated, and to support each other in their learning. At chapel, Rev Oliver has been encouraging us to look at the Bible to see what it looks like to live as the body of Christ.

Alongside this, we have been reminding students to:

  • Be punctual: Arriving on time not only maximizes learning opportunities but also fosters discipline and respect for others.
  • Be prepared: Ensuring they have all necessary learning materials contributes to a smoother and more effective educational experience.
  • Adhere to uniform guidelines: Consistent uniform compliance promotes a sense of unity and equality within our school community.

These habits are essential in creating a positive and productive learning environment for everyone.

In our Pastoral Care classes, we have begun to look at Growth Mindsets, the idea that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This perspective fosters resilience, a love for learning, and a willingness to embrace challenges. We believe that cultivating a growth mindset will empower our students to face challenges with confidence and persist in the face of setbacks, ultimately contributing to their overall success and well-being.

Next Wednesday, Year 8 students will participate in a workshop titled "Thinking Traps," presented by Toolbox Education. This session aims to help students identify and manage unhelpful thoughts that can lead to anxiety, self-doubt, or disengagement. The workshop will equip students with strategies to challenge and reframe these thoughts, fostering a more positive and resilient mindset.

We are looking forward to seeing Year 8 continue to grow in their resilience, character and learning in the year ahead.

Mr Samuel Mills & Mrs Roslyn Rodriguez
Year 8 Advisors
Practical Experience in TAS

Year 11 Construction Students Earn White Card Certification

white card

This term, Year 11 Construction students successfully completed their White Card safety training, a crucial step toward working in the construction industry. The certification equips students with essential knowledge of workplace health and safety, ensuring they can identify hazards, follow regulations, and maintain a safe work environment. Completing this training opens doors to work experience and future employment opportunities in the building sector. Students demonstrated commitment and enthusiasm throughout the course, gaining valuable skills for their careers. Congratulations to all participants on this important achievement!

Mr Mark Reed
VET Coordinator

Year 11 Hospitality Cooking Masterclass

Food tech

Over the past few weeks, Year 11 Hospitality students have begun the practical components of their course, developing new culinary skills in the kitchen. A highlight of their learning experience was a special masterclass with our MRK chef, Bill, who demonstrated how to brunoise an onion for their Mushroom Duxelles recipe. His expertise provided students with valuable industry insights and hands-on techniques to refine their skills.

Miss Michala Georges
TAS Coordinator

Senior School Sports Update

Congratulations Oliver C and Evangelina P

We are so proud of Oliver and Evangelina who both threw National Qualifying distances in the Hammer Throw, at the NSW Junior Athletics Championships. An incredible performance!

We wish Oliver and Evangelina all the best as they now prepare to compete at the Australian Athletics Championships in Perth in April.

Sport

CIS Boys Football Cup 

Our CIS Cup Boys Team are off to a great start winning their Round Two Game against Central Coast Adventist College 6-3. We wish them all the best as they progress through this prestigious knockout tournament and are looking forward to seeing them in action again in a few weeks for their Round 3 Game. 

Soccer

Soccer CIS

Upcoming Sporting Dates
WEEK 9 Wednesday 26 March AICES Schools Basketball Cup
WEEK 10 Tuesday 1 April MISA Grand Finals
WEEK 11 Tuesday 8 April

MISA Trials during Period 5 and 6

MISA Dance Showcase - Period 5

TERM TWO
WEEK 1 Tuesday 29 April 
FIRST DAY BACK!		 Senior School Athletics Carnival

Mrs Irene Focas
Senior School Sports Co-ordinator

CommunityBack to Top

Holiday Programs

Football Holiday Program

foot

Running from Tuesday 22 - Thursday 24 April at 8.30am - 2.30pm, this is an all-weather program that will take place at the College.

It is open to boys and girls aged 5-13 of all skill levels.

Students will participate in fun activities, game development and learn soccer skills from accredited coaches.

$65 per day or $180 for the week.

Dates for you diary for the next Football Holiday Program:

JULY HOLIDAYS
Monday 14 July to Friday 18 July

OCTOBER HOLIDAYS
Tuesday 07 October to Friday 10 October

*The Dance Holiday Program will not run in the April Holidays.


CodeCamp

code

Join CodeCamp these School holidays where kids design, code, problem solve and become storytellers and creators of technology, by creating games, websites, music and videos or flying drones - in just 2-3 days! 

Tuesday 15 - Thursday 17 April from 9.00am - 3.45pm.



Motiv8 Sports

motiv8

THE MOTIV8 GAMES are held only once every year and provide campers the chance to win Gold. The Motiv8 Games is a futuristic version of the Olympics with a rock concert style atmosphere. This  multi-sports event will give campers the opportunity to participate in a long list of team sports, individual events, showdowns and team building challenges. 

Monday 14 - Tuesday 15 April.

For ages Kindy to Year 6
The Way we connect

The Way We Connect – Keeping Our Community Informed

Since launching this initiative in our last edition, we've already received some fantastic questions and suggestions. Some parents have been contacted directly, while others will find answers in this newsletter. For those with broader topics, the upcoming College Insight Session will provide further clarity.

If you have a question or suggestion, you can submit it using the form below. This will be a regular feature in our newsletter, helping to keep our community informed.

Please note that while not every submission will receive a direct reply, we will ensure recurring topics are addressed in a way that benefits everyone.

Got a question? Submit it via the button below—your input helps shape what we share!