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 Junior School
Sandy Wheeler

Keeping Kids Safe on Social Media with the "Safe, Savvy, Social" Framework

Children born between 2010 to 2024 have been called ‘Generation Alpha’ and they are digital natives. They were born into a world with iPads and Instagram and they have grown up with the internet as a part of life. How do we prepare them for a digital world and future?

Let me share with you how we, in the Junior School, are teaching students to be responsible digital citizens.

We use three simple words: Safe, Savvy, Social.

These three words encourage the students to think critically about their online interactions and usage. I have used this language of being Safe, Savvy and Social in our K-6 morning musters this term and it is also being covered in our Manners Matter program. Manners Matter is our daily pastoral care time which is strategically placed before lunch break. Ask your child about the hand actions that go along with each word and see if they remember them. We also posted class ‘Digital Citizen Pledges’ in Seesaw under the headings Safe, Savvy and Social.

With so many children spending time on technology or online, teachers and parents have a shared responsibility to proactively and intentionally teach children to be responsible digital citizens. No matter your position on social media usage, it is a part of how young people can connect with friends, explore topics and express themselves. It is important for students to understand how to use it safely and responsibly. I especially highlight to families the need to be informed about social media platforms and their age recommendations. Many of these are recommended 13 years old and above and new legislation is moving towards 16 and above.

Safe

It is essential that children understand how to protect themselves online. Children need to tell a trusted adult when something isn’t right. Consider the following:

  • Access to social media
  • Parental controls and privacy settings
  • Not sharing personal information online
  • Creating strong passwords and keeping them private
  • Talk to a trusted adult when feeling uncomfortable

Savvy

In addition to staying safe, children must develop a sense of being savvy when it comes to their digital choices. It is about learning skills for being responsible and smart online by making responsible judgements. Consider the following:

  • How do we know what we see or read is true?
  • What is a healthy balance of technology use?
  • We all leave a digital footprint and we need to be careful what we share online.

Social

Just as respectful relationships are developed in the physical world, it is just as important when we are online. We need to teach children how to connect with others in a healthy and positive manner on digital platforms. Consider the following:

  • How do we engage with others positively online as you would in person?
  • Do you as a parent or carer know what they are doing in the digital world and how they are treating others online?
  • What expectations do you have for your child when they socially interact online?
     

Advice for families

  • Keep having small conversations, often
  • Reassure your children that they can always come to you, no matter what
  • Set up rules and expectations
  • Make use of any safety settings available

I also highly commend these two websites if you are looking for a deeper dive into the world of raising children in a digital world -equipping them for life ahead.

SchoolTV –Because parenting doesn’t come with instructions, SchoolTV is a wellbeing resource that can support you in the challenges relating to modern-day parenting.

Esafety commissioner parents section – We can help our children safely navigate the online world by taking some basic steps to reduce the risks.

Keep these three words in mind - Safe, Savvy, and Social. You can use these words in your home as a complement to the learning we are doing at the College.

Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.

Psalm 25:5

Mrs Sandy Wheeler
Deputy Principal & Head of Junior 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 Director of Operations & Wellbeing - Junior School
Kylie

Junior School Voice (JSV) empowers students by involving them in decisions that affect their school life, fostering responsibility, confidence, and critical thinking. By sharing their ideas on rules, activities, and routines, students feel valued and develop decision-making skills. This promotes a collaborative and inclusive environment, where all voices contribute to making College better.

JSV encourages ownership of actions and behaviour, as students take pride in class goals and group projects. This builds positive attitudes toward learning and teamwork.

The first JSV representatives for Semester 1 meet weekly with their lead teacher to gather feedback and report back during Manners Matter.

REPRESENTATIVES
Year 2 - Mrs Stroud Jada S Aiden D Amelia J Samuel A
Year 3 - Mrs Lawler Scarlett B Harper E Mary A Isaac H
Year 4 - Mrs Lawler Braydon L Isabella J Ethan S Tegan H
Year 5 - Ms Hansford Aidan H Mariam I Kristabel L Evana M
Year 6 - Ms Hansford Noah Z Thomas S Ariella L Mikayla Q
We look forward to hearing from students through this exciting new initiative.
Mrs Kylie Singles
Director of Operations & Wellbeing – Junior School
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.

LearningBack to Top

Junior Art Showcase

As we establish routines for our youngest students in the Junior Art room, Year Ones become familiar with the space, learning appropriate and safe use of materials and equipment.  Experimenting with new materials while settling into the school year is a focus while we learn the primary colours.  Our first and foremost colours of red, yellow and blue will be used to mix the whole spectrum when we begin exploring the paint medium, learning about the history of pigments and the visual and emotive effects of warm and cool colours.  Each week, class groups brainstorm a list of things in our natural and made world that are red (They stand out!), yellow (They stand out too!) and blue (Not so many individual things, but made up for by a lot of blue sky and water in our environment…)

Year 1

Year 1

Year Ones are using terminology to describe pictures.  They are learning about positive and negative space in Visual Art;  the objects they draw take up positive (filled) space, while the empty background is negative space.  They are also considering composition; if they draw their objects large, there is less negative space on their coloured paper to fill in with white chalk, oil pastel or acrylic paint.

It can all get a bit messy (Can I wash my hands?) but, importantly, we are practising our cleaning up routines and learning to take responsibility for the mess we make as we become good citizens of the planet.

Mrs Ann McDermott 
Junior School Specialist Teacher (Visual Arts)
Language in Junior School

The Power of Hello. Teaching Young Children to Greet the World

In the Prep and Kindergarten classrooms, every small lesson can have a big impact. One of the simplest yet most meaningful lessons we can teach young children is how to say "hello" in different languages. This small word holds great power— it opens doors to new friendships, fosters inclusivity, and nurtures curiosity about the world.

When children learn how to say hello in multiple languages, they gain an early appreciation for diversity. Young learners who speak languages other than English feel seen and valued when they hear familiar words in the classroom.

Holahola 2

Introducing children to words from different languages helps them understand that the world is full of unique cultures, traditions, and ways of communicating. Saying “hola,” “bonjour,” or “ni hao” sparks their curiosity and encourages them to ask questions about different countries and people. These early experiences with languages build the foundation for cultural understanding and empathy.

Greeting others is one of the first steps in forming connections. When children learn and practise saying hello in different languages, they develop confidence in communicating with others. They also learn that language is a bridge that connects people, no matter where they come from.

By teaching our youngest learners the simple act of saying hello in multiple languages, we are planting the seeds of kindness, inclusion, and global awareness. We are inspiring them to continue exploring new languages and embracing different cultures.

 

Mrs Viviana Morris
Junior School Teacher (Languages)
Year 6 Transition

Our Year 6 students began their transition program. This program prepares the students with the skills needed to make a positive and successful transition from Year 6 to Year 7. It is also a great opportunity for our students to become familiar with Senior School teachers, learning spaces and subject expectations.

Over the course of the next three terms, students will engage with Science, Japanese, Visual Arts and History. They will complete these subjects in various Senior School learning spaces, such as the new STEM building, specialist classrooms, and N Block, the home to the Senior School IRC.

It’s a wonderful opportunity for our students and teachers to develop connections before Year 7 starts, and it’s fantastic to see the enthusiasm for learning that our Year 6 students bring to the classroom!  

Mrs Millie Pettett
Assistant Academic Dean

Year 6 Canberra Excursion

The Year 6 students recently embarked on an exciting and educational three-day excursion to Canberra, immersing themselves in the political, historical, and cultural aspects of Australia’s capital. With a combination of engaging tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on learning, the trip provided students with a deeper understanding of the nation's heritage.

1. Parliament House:
A major highlight was the visit to Parliament House, where students learned about Australia’s political system and the roles of key government bodies, including the Prime Minister, the Senate, and the House of Representatives.

2. The Australian War Memorial:
Students had a meaningful experience at the Australian War Memorial, reflecting on Australia’s military history. The guided tour took them through the emotional exhibits, including the Roll of Honour and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, deepening their understanding of the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers in various conflicts.

3. National Museum of Australia:
At the National Museum of Australia, students explored the rich cultural and historical fabric of the nation. Through dynamic exhibits, they learned about Indigenous cultures, European settlement, and the key events that shaped modern Australia. The museum's interactive displays sparked curiosity and fostered a deeper connection to Australia’s history.

4. Museum of Australian Democracy (Old Parliament House):
A visit to the Museum of Australian Democracy allowed students to explore the history of Australia’s democratic system. Touring the former Parliament House gave students a glimpse into the workings of government and the significance of civic responsibility, including the importance of voting and participation in democracy.

5. Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre:
Questacon offered a fun and engaging experience, where students explored hands-on science exhibits that sparked their curiosity about technology and innovation. Interactive displays and exciting demonstrations made science and technology come to life in an enjoyable way.

6. Australian Institute of Sport (AIS):
At the Australian Institute of Sport, students toured the elite training facilities that support Australia’s top athletes. They learned about the dedication required to excel in sports, gaining insight into how the AIS helps young athletes reach their full potential across various disciplines.

7. National Electoral Education Centre:
The National Electoral Education Centre gave students a fascinating look at the electoral process in Australia. They learned about the history and significance of voting, how elections are conducted, and the role of the Australian Electoral Commission in ensuring fair and democratic elections. Interactive displays helped students understand the importance of their participation in the democratic process.

8. Mount Ainsley Lookout:
The trip also included a visit to Mount Ainsley Lookout, offering stunning panoramic views of Canberra. From this vantage point, students could see key landmarks like Parliament House, the War Memorial, and the city’s central business district. It was a perfect opportunity to appreciate the city’s thoughtful design and layout.

9. Driving Tour of the Embassy and Lodge District:
The excursion included a driving tour through Canberra’s Embassy and Lodge district. Students passed by the official residences of the Prime Minister and the Governor-General, learning about the significance of these sites and the embassies of various countries, highlighting Canberra’s role as the political and diplomatic hub of Australia.

10. National Gallery of Australia:
At the National Gallery, students explored Australia’s vibrant art scene. They viewed significant works of art, including those from Indigenous and contemporary Australian artists, gaining an appreciation for the country's artistic heritage. The gallery's diverse collections sparked creative thinking and opened students’ eyes to the world of visual arts.

This Year 6 Canberra excursion was a rich educational experience, providing students with valuable insights into Australia’s history, governance, sports, culture, and art. The mix of educational activities and sightseeing left students with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of their country’s heritage and democratic system.

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist schools in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding to our College in the amount of $30 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. 

 

We appreciate the staff who helped make this journey unforgettable for our Year 6 students.

Ms Kylie Singles
Director of Operations & Wellbeing - Junior School

Junior School Sports Update

Junior School Cross Country Carnival for students in Years 3 - 6

On Tuesday 18 March, we held our annual Junior School Cross Country for Year 3 to 6 students at College. After postponing the carnival last week due to the rain, we were blessed with perfect weather to run the 2km and 3km courses.

We recognise and commend all students for their hard work and persistence during the event.  It was fantastic to hear students encourage each other and reflect on achieving their personal best results.

Special mention to the Age Champions, who placed first in their age group:

AGE

GIRLS

BOYS
8/9 Years Sophia C Raphael A
10 Years A'mia B Jeremy G
11 Years Ella K Samuel I 
12 Years Violet O Thomas S

A huge thank you to our Year 10 PASS students who were check points stationed along the course, offering support and encouragement to all the runners. We are also grateful to the guide runners who accompanied the Junior School students as they raced.

Congratulations to those students who placed in the top 8 of their respective age groups, earning the opportunity to represent the College at the upcoming CASA Cross Country Carnival on Thursday 8 May. We wish them all the best as they continue their training and preparation!

UPCOMING SPORTING DATES
WK 9 Wednesday 26 March NSW CIS Primary Swimming Carnival
WK 10
Thursday 3 April  Years 5 & 6 CASA Boys and Girls Touch Football Gala Day
WK 11 Monday 7 April  Years 5 & 6 CIS BOYS AFL Trials **
** Please contact Mrs Evans if you are interested in trialling at the NSW CIS Boys AFL trials

 

Dates for your Calendar

TERM 2
WK 1 Thursday 1 May NSW CIS Primary Girls Softball trials **
WK 2
Thursday 8 May  CASA Junior Cross Country Carnival
Friday 9 May NSW CIS Primary Girls Rugby 7’s trial **
WK 3 Monday 12 May  Year 3 – 6 Athletics Carnival – Campbelltown Stadium
** Please contact Mrs Evans if you are interested in trialling at the NSW CIS GirlsSoftball or Rugby 7’s trials.

Mrs Sharon Evans
P-6 Sport Coordinator

CommunityBack to Top

Kindy Parent Meet Up

Last week at the MRK Cafe, we welcomed out Kindy families for a special meet-up, giving parents a chance to connect with others in their child's class. It was a great way to start the day with conversation and coffee. 

Kindy
kindy

Thank you to everyone who joined us for a lovely morning. 

 
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!