Term 1 I The Way Newsletter I Friday 05 April 2024

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From the Principal
Karen Easton - Principal

This is the last edition of The Way for Term 1 and I want to start by thanking everyone for a fabulous start to the year. We have enjoyed so many opportunities to showcase different talents in classrooms, sporting activities and creative thinking.

Term 2 will begin with the musical The Little Mermaid and we are very much looking forward to being transported ‘under the sea’ and being enchanted by the hard work of all involved. A large number of tickets have already been sold – and some shows are nearly booked out. It promises to be an excellent production so please make sure you purchase your tickets now.

The school holidays are on the horizon and traditionally we see these weeks as an opportunity to relax and refresh. I think these are also great times to think ahead and to try something new. My challenge is often to look for the miracles in every day and rejoice in the many wonders that we are so blessed to have in Australia. Time with friends, watching a movie, reading a book can all offer new insights and different perspectives that encourage us to step outside our own experiences. This is equally true for our children. Can I encourage you to limit screen time and go outside? Learning a new skill, playing sport or attempting a new recipe with your family can be a pleasant change in pace.

I wish you all a safe and restful break and look forward to hearing from the students the many experiences they have had and what they have learned through these times.

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.

Psalm 23:1-3

Mrs Karen Easton
Principal
From the Deputy Principal & Head of Junior School
Sandy Wheeler

Every year our Easter Hat Parade and Eggsihibition receives an outstanding attendance by our Junior School families. Thank you for taking the time to be present and support your children in what is a definite highlight for Term 1. The Prep to Year 4 students made beautiful Easter hats with many rising to the challenge to use recycled materials! The Eggsibition equally showcased student creativity across Years 5 and 6, with many students utilising items they already had at home to create their art displays.

Walking through the Eggsibition to see the number of art displays was incredibly encouraging. The Year 6 students really put in their best effort for their last ever entries. Whilst our Year 4 students were buzzing with excitement after viewing the Eggsibition, many were already planning their designs for their first Eggsibition submission next year! It is a joy to have events such as these for students to look forward to each year. It was also a great opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ within our community. Our Junior School Chaplain, Miss Georgia Beikoff explained the Easter message through M&Ms with the words ‘Messiah, Easter, Three and Worship’. I hope students enjoyed the sweet treat and Easter poem that went home with them.

Next term, students return to College on Tuesday 30 April. Not only will it be transition to winter uniform it is also musical week! All the students have started rehearsing and costumes are in process of being made. The first show is on Friday 3 May. Tickets are still available, but limited - see the article below for more details and the link to buy your tickets.

I trust you have an excellent holiday break as a family and your children come back ready for an engaging and strong term of learning on Tuesday 30 April.

Mrs Sandy Wheeler
Deputy Principal & Head of Junior School
From The Chaplain
Denis Oliver

REMBRANDT AND JESUS

I'm excited to share that I'll be joining a group of students on a journey to Italy and France. My anticipation for visiting the Louvre, especially as a fan of Rembrandt, is palpable. Interestingly, did you know that many of Rembrandt's masterpieces were initially crafted by apprentices in his workshop? It's fascinating how, at times, these apprentices would deliver work so akin to Rembrandt's style that minimal adjustments were required from the master himself. Conversely, there were occasions where Rembrandt had to extensively rework pieces due to the incompetence of the apprentices. Still, amidst these varied outcomes, there was always the hope among the apprentices for their work to be deemed satisfactory, even to the point where Rembrandt might say, "It's right just as it is."

Reflecting on this, I'm reminded of our relationship with Christ as described in Ephesians 2:10.

10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephes 2:10)

Just as Rembrandt worked on his apprentices' creations, we are God's handiwork, crafted in Christ Jesus for good works. As Christian parents, we serve as apprentices of Christ in nurturing and guiding our children towards spiritual maturity. We must embrace our role with confidence in Christ's ability to rectify our shortcomings.

Expanding on this analogy, we can view ourselves as masterpieces in progress, with Christ as the divine artist continually shaping us (Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18). Like Rembrandt with his apprentices, Jesus mentors us in the art of discipleship, expecting us to imitate and propagate His teachings.

In essence, our journey with Christ mirrors that of an apprentice under a master artist. With each day, we undergo transformation, sometimes profound and sometimes subtle, as Christ meticulously works on His masterpiece—us.

Reverend Denis Oliver
College Chaplain
From the Director of Operations & Wellbeing - Junior School
Kylie

Parent-teacher interviews serve as a cornerstone in fostering effective communication and collaboration between teachers and College families and carers. 

One of the primary advantages of parent-teacher interviews lies in the opportunity it provides for open dialogue. These sessions facilitate direct communication between parents and teachers, allowing both parties to discuss a student's progress, strengths, areas for improvement, and any concerns that may arise. Through these discussions, parents gain deeper insights into their child's academic and social development, fostering a holistic understanding of their educational journey.

Moreover, parent-teacher interviews empower parents to actively engage in their child's education. By understanding their child's academic performance and receiving personalised feedback from teachers, parents can better support their child's learning outside the classroom. This involvement cultivates a sense of partnership between home and College, reinforcing the importance of education in a child's life.

Face to face parent teacher interviews will be conducted in the Junior School classrooms on Tuesday 14 May from 3-7pm and Thursday 16 May from 3-5:30pm (Prep 2 day 3-7pm).

We look forward to this time together.

Mrs Kylie Singles
Director of Operations & Wellbeing – Junior School
From the Director of Student Wellbeing - Senior School
Director of Student Wellbeing

In today's digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. While it offers numerous benefits, it also poses certain risks, especially for our children. As educators, we believe it is crucial to equip parents with the knowledge and strategies to help their children navigate the online world safely. Over the next few terms, we will be exploring positive relationships online as well as offline. In the Senior School, we have several presenters coming into our different year groups including Brainstorm Productions, Police liaison officers, YourChoicez who, along with our regular wellbeing program, all try and equip students to build resilience and positive connections. Some of the topics they will cover are anti-bullying, cyber safety, anxiety, and mental health.

You may find the following strategies helpful when helping your child navigate the difficulties of online social media during the holidays and into next term:

  1. Open Communication: Establish an open and honest line of communication with your child. Encourage them to share their online experiences and concerns with you.
  2. Set Clear Boundaries: Establish rules and guidelines for your child's social media use. Discuss appropriate online behavior, time limits, and the importance of privacy.
  3. Monitor Online Activity: Regularly monitor your child's online activity. Familiarise yourself with the platforms they use and understand their privacy settings.
  4. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest social media trends, apps, and games. This will enable you to have meaningful conversations with your child and address any potential risks.
  5. Encourage Critical Thinking: Teach your child to think critically about the content they encounter online. Help them differentiate between reliable sources and misinformation.
  6. Report and Block: Teach your child how to report and block any inappropriate or abusive content or individuals they come across online. Most social media platforms have built-in reporting features. You can also report abuse or illegal and restricted online content via the eSafety website  https://www.esafety.gov.au/report  

Remember, your involvement and guidance play a crucial role in ensuring your child's online safety. By working together, we can create a safer digital environment for young people.

Here are some additional strategies that you can discuss with your child on how to remain safe online:

  1. Protect Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal information, such as your full name, address, phone number, or school, with strangers online. Be cautious when filling out online forms or surveys.
  2. Use Strong Passwords: Create strong and unique passwords for your online accounts. Avoid using easily guessable information like your name or birthdate. Remember to change your passwords regularly.
  3. Think Before You Share: Before posting or sharing anything online, think about the potential consequences. Be mindful of the content you share and consider how it may affect your reputation or the feelings of others.
  4. Be Wary of Strangers: Be cautious when interacting with strangers online. Remember that not everyone may have good intentions. Avoid meeting someone you only know from the internet without parental permission.
  5. Report and Block: If you come across any inappropriate or abusive content or individuals online, report it to a trusted adult or use the platform's reporting feature. Block anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable.
  6. Balance Screen Time: While the internet offers endless possibilities, it's important to find a balance between online and offline activities. Make time for hobbies, physical exercise, and spending time with family and friends.

As always, if you are concerned about the wellbeing of your child, we’d very much appreciate hearing from you. Please reach out and make contact via your child’s Year Advisor, or if more urgent there is contact information on the College website for connecting with the College Counselling Team.

Dr Anna Nalla
Director of Student Wellbeing - Senior School

The Little Mermaid

Dive into the enchanting world beneath the sea with The Little Mermaid, a magical Disney musical that's making waves on Broadway is now on stage at Thomas Hassall Anglican College!

Based on the beloved Disney film and the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, this sparkling production tells the story of Ariel, a beautiful young mermaid who dreams of life above the waves. But to make her dreams a reality, Ariel must defy her father, the sea king, escape the clutches of an evil sea witch, and capture the heart of a prince.

Featuring unforgettable songs like "Part of Your World," "Kiss the Girl," and the Academy Award-winning "Under the Sea," composed by the legendary Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, The Little Mermaid promises an unforgettable journey filled with adventure for audiences of all ages.

For 2 weeks only - 6 shows:

Friday 3 May 2024 | 7pm

Saturday 4 May 2024 | 1.30pm & 7pm

Friday 10 May 2024 | 7pm

Saturday 11 May 2024 | 1.30pm & 7pm

Click here to purchase tickets

 

Thank you to our Sponsors!

 

PLATINUM

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GOLD

 

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SILVER

 

Storm International

 

 

Devine Building

 
BRONZE

 

La Rumbla Ristorante

 
College Awards

To receive an award is a recognition to your hard work, excellence and service in the College. 

Congratulations to the following Junior School assembly merit award recipients:

Junior School Awards

 

Congratulations to the following Senior School Bronze & Gold SRS award recipients:

Senior School

 

WellbeingBack to Top

Friendship and Belonging

We are almost at the end of the first term and it is common for parents to touch base with their children and just check if they have friends. 

“The ability to obtain, maintain and retain friendships is, according to all the childhood psychologists in the whole wide world, the greatest predictor of wellbeing. Having a rich repertoire of friends is a true indicator of whether your child is travelling ok.” Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

How do you support your child if they are struggling to make friends? To answer this question, click on this link.

friendship


Mrs Jacoline Petersen
Director of Student Counselling

LearningBack to Top

Mrs Easton visits Year 2

Last week, Mrs Easton visited our Year 2 students to talk about Thomas Hassall.

Mrs Easton brought a very special book that was given to Thomas which is over 150 years old. This term, Year 2 have been looking at things from the past. What a great opportunity to find out about who Thomas Hassall was and why our College is named after him, sharing about his involvement in Sunday schools so everyone could learn new things and also about God.

Mrs Easton showed photos of where Thomas Hassall lived; the Denbigh Estate in Cobbitty, which still stands today. 

It was a great time of learning. Year 2 left with an understanding of who Thomas Hassall was, his wonderful legacy of wanting to share the good news of Jesus in the early years of our nation, and why our College is named after him.

 
Year 2 Showcase

Year 2 had so much fun applying their knowledge of face proportions, sculpting some edible art. Our Biccy Piccies showed what we have been learning about this term in our ‘Face Facts’ Unit. Students have been making drawings, collages and modelling, giving attention to the position and size of the facial features, such as observing the eyes halfway down the head and lining up the ears with the eyebrows and the nose. Making biscuit pictures is a joyful way to develop fine motor skills and students were challenged to even give attention to making fine eyelid skin with the fondant. Who knew art could be so yummy?

Year 2

 

Mrs Ann McDermott 
Junior School Specialist Teacher (Visual Arts)
Prep Easter Hat Parade

Prep White and Prep Red had a wonderful time performing and parading at the Easter Hat Parade.
We also made some beautiful crosses to remember Jesus love for us.

Easter Hat

 

Easter Hat

Easter Hat

Mrs Katherine Patterson
Digital Learning & Junior School Teacher- Prep White

CASA Touch Football

The CASA Junior Touch Football Gala Day was held on Thursday 28 March at Vale of Ah Reserve.

The Year 5 and 6 Boys and Girls teams played well throughout the day, improving their skills as the day progressed.  It was great to see our players show perseverance and teamwork, being great ambassadors for the College.

Well done to all students who represented the College.

Touch Football

Miss Tikeri and Mrs Evans
CIS Primary Swimming Championships

On Wednesday 27 March, 4 students in the Junior school competed at the NSW CIS Primary Swimming Championships at the Sydney Olympic Aquatic Centre.

Representing the College and our newly named association CASA, our Junior Boys relay team swum well against the fastest swimmers in independent primary schools in NSW.                                                                                                     

Congratulations to Coby O, Levi M, Tomas C and Liam H.

Coby also swam in the 10yr 50m freestyle and breaststroke events.  Well done Coby!

swimming

Mrs Sharon Evans
P-6 Sports Coordinator
CIS Primary Girls Football Trials

On Monday 25 March our College hosted the NSW CIS Primary Girls Football trials, with over 100 primary school girls from Independent schools across NSW attending the trials.

Congratulations to Willow S and Hanna E who were selected to represent CASA at the trials. Although unsuccessful in making the NSW team, both girls showed excellent skill and teamwork and are commended on their efforts at the trial.

Well done girls!

Mrs Sharon Evans 
P-6 Sports Coordinator
CIS Primary Boys Football Gala Day

On Thursday 4 April, the NSW CIS Primary Boys Football Gala Day was held at Valentine Park. 

Thomas Hassall had 5 boys selected to represent CASA at the trials.  In cold and wet conditions, the CASA team played 4 games as part of the trial to select 12 players in the NSW team.

Our boys showed great skill and sportsmanship throughout the day and although unsuccessful in being selected in the NSW team, were great ambassadors of the College.

Congratulations to Fawzy A, Marcus, R, Rocky B, Nikola R and Dietrich E.

Well done boys!

football

Mrs Sharon Evans 
P-6 Sports Coordinator
Year 3 - 6 School Sport

 

Upcoming Events

Winter IPSSO Sport trials – Wednesday 1 May (Term 2 – Week 1)

Students in Years 3 – 6 will trial for Winter IPSSO teams in Week 1, Term 2 – Wednesday 1 May.

All students need to complete a nomination form, for either IPSSO trials or College Sport, click here

Winter IPSSO Sports are played in Terms 2 and 3 and are:

Juniors (Year 3 and 4) – AFL, Netball, Tee-ball and Newcombe Ball

Seniors (Year 5 and 6 ) – AFL, Netball, Softball and Modified Volleyball

NB – IPSSO Boys Soccer teams were chosen earlier this term and are currently training 2 mornings a week in the APP Boys Football Program.

Please see the Term 2 – Year 3 - 6 Sport note for more information.

Mrs Sharon Evans
P-6 Sports Coordinator
Student Sport Spotlight

Oscar Q (Year 5) recently attended the MIRA Ice Skating (NSW) competition on Saturday 23 March. 

He came 3rd place in Solo Competition (trophy) and 3rd place of pairs (medal). 

Oscar will be going to Canberra to participating ACT Ice Skating competition this year.

Congratulations Oscar, what a fantastic achievement. 

Oscar Q

 

Has your child recently competed in a representative level?
We would love to share these results with our community. Please let us know via email community@thac.nsw.edu.au

CommunityBack to Top

Uniform Shop Holiday Hours

The Thomas Hassall Uniform Shop will close for the school holidays on Friday, 12 April 2024 at 3:30 pm, and will re-open on Monday, 22 April 2024.

The winter uniform changeover is the week after Mother’s Day (Monday 13 May), however, for Junior School, winter uniform is optional for the first two weeks of Term if it is cold.

Uniforms can be purchased in person or online. We recommend booking a fitting appointment online if you are a Year 7 student requiring a blazer.

Extended Holiday Trading Hours:

  • Monday, 22 April - 9:00am - 4:00pm
  • Wednesday, 24 April - 9:00am - 4:00pm
  • Friday, 26 April - 9:00am - 4:00pm
  • Monday, 29 April - 9:00am - 4:00pm

The uniform shop will return to normal hours on Wednesday 1 May 2024. 

Throughout the school term our opening hours are:

  • Monday - 7.00 am - 3.30 pm
  • Wednesday - 12.00 am - 6.00 pm
  • Friday - 7.00 am - 3.30 pm

 

Fitting Appointment

Uniform fittings are strictly by appointment only

Please use the link below to book an appointment

https://Midford.as.me/ThomasHassallAnglicanCollege

 

Online Store

Enjoy the convenience of online shopping.

Orders will be filled when the store is next open.

www.midford.com.au Passphrase: Thomas1997

Please contact the uniform shop:

Phone: 02 8776 1193

Email: THAC@midford.com.au
Holiday Programs
Football Holiday Program

Running from 22 - 24 and 26 of April from 8.30 - 2.30pm, this is an all-weather program that will take place at the College.

*Program will not run on ANZAC Day - Thursday 25 April

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 $240 for the week.

Book online now


CodeCamp

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 16 - Thursday 18 April. 

Book now

 

Motiv8 Sports

Held only once each year Super Camp is a sports festival designed just for kids. Way more than a sports dreamland, Super Camp is an energetic mix of sport, music, street culture, art and dance mashed up to create the ultimate atmosphere for kids who love having fun. Campers will be treated to an incredible array of our trademark team sports in an environment full of energy, motiv8tion and unbelievable guidance from our professional team of coaches.

8:30am-3:30pm daily - 15 & 16 April

For ages Kindy to Year 6
Book online

 

Cricket NSW 

Register Here

Cricket NSW

 

NRL League Stars

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NRL