Term 2 | The Way Newsletter | Friday 6 June 2025

Latest UpdatesBack to Top

From the Principal
Principal

I want to draw your attention to our student leaders.

We have many young people who are excellent role models in the College. I regularly witness the emerging leaders in our Junior School assemblies as the students introduce items, encourage award recipients and generally set a tone of excellence.

In the Senior School the Year 12 Captains and Prefects have welcomed visitors to the College, contributed to our Open Day and continued to present at whole College events. I receive multiple compliments and specific comments about the calibre of our leaders and the manner in which they conduct themselves. I am enormously proud of the students and want to share this with you all as you are raising remarkable young people.

This year, we have intentionally worked to shift our culture with the purpose of valuing student voice, and empowering our young leaders to make a difference. The College Captains and Vice-Captains have risen to this challenge with grace and determination. Each has spoken thoughtfully at Senior School assemblies, inspiring students from Years 7 through 12 to think deeply about perseverance, motivation, influence, and character. Their words have encouraged all of us to reflect on the choices before us and to consider how we "show up" each day matters.

What has been most inspiring, however, is the way these leaders have walked the talk. They have not shied away from opportunities to serve. Instead, they have modelled a genuine commitment to the College—seeking out ways to lift others up and create a sense of belonging for every student. They are leaving behind a significant legacy, one built on honesty, humility, and courage.

I also want to commend to you other student leaders. Those who lead sporting teams, represent in dance, debating, chapel, house events and in the classroom. We don’t need a title or a badge to be a true leader. Leadership is about upholding values and walking the talk with integrity. There are many capable students at Thomas Hassall.

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." 
Philippians 2:3

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

Events like Crazy Hair Day remind me how a little bit of fun goes a long way in building connections with one another.

What a colourful and completely crazy day we’ve had at College— no one could miss that it was Crazy Hair Day today!

The students and staff brought such brilliant creativity to Crazy Hair Day with imaginative and eye-catching creations. It was a joy to be a part of the fun. My hair was sprayed by Junior School students and they really went all out!

Beyond the colour and fun, today was also an opportunity to be united as a Junior School community and build a sense of ‘togetherness’ no matter your age or class group. We’ve made special memories that I hope will last a life-time. I wonder if we should make Crazy Hair Day an annual event in the Junior School? I will visit our Junior Student Voice groups in the coming weeks and ask for their feedback on this.

Thank you for spending time helping the students get ready for today and making this such a success with your support and creative efforts at home.

Semester 1 Reports Update
Ms Hansford will be sharing an article this week about our new and improved Junior School semesterly report. I encourage you to take the time to read it. Thanks to recent technological improvements, we’ve been able to redesign the report format to be clearer and more accessible regarding your child’s learning and progress this semester.

As the long weekend begins, I wish you all a blessed time as a family.

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you.”
2 Corinthians 13:13

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

Week 5 was photo week at our College - a time when everyone wants to look their best, knowing that these images will be around for years to come. It was an impressive week. Uniforms were on point, people were clean-shaven, shirts were tucked in, and hair was immaculate - and that was just the staff!

One day, I was in class while some of our senior girls were getting ready for their photos. They were fussing over every detail - hair, posture, how they’d appear on camera. There was laughter, but also tension. They were clearly feeling the pressure to get everything just right. I couldn’t help but wonder: Why are you going to all this trouble? There's more to you than your appearance.

Worrying about how we come across to others is something we all wrestle with—it’s nothing new. But the Bible offers us a different take on what really matters when it comes to beauty – something that goes deeper than appearances. Listen to these words from the Apostle Peter:

“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewellery or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self—the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to adorn themselves.”
1 Peter 3:3–5

This passage offers timeless beauty advice - not just for women, but for men too.

1. Work on inner beauty over outer beauty. Outer beauty fades with time, but inner beauty - character, integrity, faith - grows stronger as we mature.

2. Focus on the beauty of gentleness and peace. Gentleness is not weakness; it’s controlled strength. The word translated “quiet” in English actually means peaceful, calm, steady, and chilled - not anxious or rest-less. A woman (or man) of faith can stay calm in the storm because they know that God is in control.

In a way, true beauty is hope you can see - in both attitude and action. Christian women (and men) are gentle, they manage their strength with grace - just like Christ. They are at peace, even in tough times, because they trust in God's plan – just like Jesus.

So parents, let’s teach our daughters - and our sons - that real beauty isn’t found in mirrors or makeup kits, but in faith, hope, and love. That kind of beauty doesn’t fade. In fact, it grows brighter with time.

Reverend Denis Oliver
College Chaplain
From the Junior School Director of Teaching and Learning
lisa

At Thomas Hassall Anglican College, we understand that strong communication with families supports student learning.

We are pleased to introduce a new reporting template in the Junior School to reflect the new syllabus in all the Key Learning Areas.

Reporting is a core responsibility of teachers and a key phase of the teaching and learning cycle. The reporting process is one avenue for teachers to reflect on individual and class achievement and can provide clarity on future directions. The new report to be sent at the end of Term 2 will give clear direction to parents to indicate in which areas your child has progressed, and provide specific advice on areas for further improvement.

The new report template enhances transparency and consistency in assessing your child’s progress. The structured format with clear headings and simplified language will help both you and your child to understand their academic achievement and areas for growth. We trust this will encourage productive discussions about learning goals for parents, students and teachers.

The main changes to the 2025 report are outlined below.

Learning Behaviours at the beginning of the report. As these are central to each child’s success as a learner, we have placed them at the start. The overall teacher’s comment is also placed on this page, as a space to celebrate your child’s growth and encourage future direction.

A-E given for each Key Learning Area – English, Mathematics, SCIL or Integrated (History, Geography, Science and Technology), Creative Arts (Dance, Drama, Music, Visual Arts) and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education. We also have Modern Languages and Christian Studies included in the report.

3-point scale (Achieving At, Achieving Above or Achieving Below) for each subject’s Focus Areas or Practices, such as Reading Comprehension and Writing in English, Number and Algebra in Mathematics, and Knowledge and Skills in Integrated and SCIL. This will clearly indicate to children and parents where each child is placed according to grade level expectation of learning. These clear areas replace the much wordier and complicated outcomes previously included for each subject.

For English and Mathematics, each child will be given Areas of Understanding and Areas for Growth. Areas for Understanding indicate the knowledge and skills in which your child has demonstrated growth and progress. Areas for Growth suggest next steps that could be supported at home, as well as at College.

We are confident that this new report format will provide a straightforward guide to each child’s semester of learning. Once the reports are sent, I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or comments.

Ms Lisa Hansford
Director of Teaching and Learning - Junior School

Donut Fundraiser

 

The Parent Community Network is running a Krispy Kreme Fundraiser to support College community events, including the South West Festival.

Order some tasty treats for you and your family and pick them up directly from the College. Orders must be received by 10am on Monday 16 June. Late orders will not be accepted after this date to ensure delivery.

Orders will be ready to take home on Friday 27 June, the final day of term – a sweet way to celebrate the end of Term 2!

-12 Original Glazed Dozen: $26.00
- Assorted Dozen: $34.00 (4x Original Glazed, 2x Strawberry Sprinkles, 2x Choc Iced, 2x Strawberry Jam, 2x Choc Iced Custard)

Order online www.thac.nsw.edu.au/book
New website

We are thrilled to our announce our new website will be launching soon.

We have been working hard behind the scenes to create a fresh design with updated features and a clearer window into life at the College.

Thank you to all the students, staff, parents and alumni who’ve already shared their reflections — your words will be part of what makes the new site so special.

There’s still a chance to be involved. If you’d like to contribute a short comment or testimonial, the form is still open for a little longer.

We can’t wait to share the new website with you. Stay tuned!
Can you host Japanese Students?

We are excitedly anticipating a visit from Takayama Junior High School, our sister school, who will be visiting the College - 1 – 5 August 2025. Hosting students will provide your family with an amazing intercultural experience. We have always had such positive feedback from families who have hosted and it is a vital part of our Japanese language program within the College community. The Japanese students are here to experience Australian Culture and our style of family life to improve their spoken English. 

  • Students attend school on weekdays and enjoy
  • Family life with you on the weekend
  • Japanese language is not necessary.
  • Students just fit in with your family routines – eat your food
  • They need their own bed but can share a room, they will need to be in pairs or in three's.

Families are paid $55 per night ($110 to host 2 students)

If you are interested in hosting students, please click on this link and fill out the online form.

Thank you for considering this wonderful opportunity.

Mrs Fiona Byrne
Languages Coordinator - Senior School
Upcoming dates

Date Event
Monday 9 June Kings Birthday Public Holiday
Friday 13 June K-2 Strings Showcase Assembly
 
Monday 16 June

Junior School Strings Sydney Eisteddfod
Tuesday 17 June Parent Information Session - Police Register here
Wednesday 18 June

MADE for Stage Buy your tickets
Thursday 19 June Duke of Ed - Year 10 Silver Hike

Please see Sports Update articles for all important sporting dates.  
Crazy Hair Day

Today, students in Prep to Year 6 took part in Crazy Hair Day.

It was a very fun day and we loved seeing all of the colourful and different hairstyles amount the students and staff.

Here are just some of the wonderful creations!

 

WellbeingBack to Top

Are Children inherently Good inside?

Are Children inherently Good inside? Are you inherently Good Inside?

In her book Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be, Dr. Becky Kennedy offers a transformative approach to parenting, emphasising connection, compassion, and self-awareness. As a school psychologist, I find her insights invaluable for fostering emotional resilience and positive behaviour in children.

Core Philosophy: Inherent Goodness
Dr. Kennedy's central premise is that both parents and children are inherently good. This perspective encourages parents to view challenging behaviours not as signs of a child's inherent badness but as indicators of unmet needs, lack of skills or struggles. By adopting this mindset, parents can respond with empathy and understanding, rather than frustration or punishment.

Empathy Over Discipline
Traditional parenting often emphasizes discipline and correction. In contrast, Dr. Kennedy advocates for prioritizing connection over consequence and skills building over consequences.  She suggests that when parents focus on understanding the emotions behind their children's behaviours, they can guide them more effectively. This approach fosters a supportive environment where children feel heard and valued. As parents, we can acknowledge, validate and permit our children’s emotions.

Practical Strategies for Parents
Good Inside provides actionable strategies for everyday parenting challenges:

- Emotion Coaching: Helping children identify and articulate their feelings promotes emotional intelligence and self-regulation.
- Repairing Ruptures: Acknowledging and addressing moments when the parent-child connection is strained strengthens trust and understanding.
- Setting Empathetic Boundaries: Establishing clear limits with compassion teaches children respect and responsibility.
- Encouraging Independence: Supporting children in making choices fosters confidence and autonomy.

The Role of Self-Compassion
Dr. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of self-compassion for parents. Recognizing one's own imperfections and practicing self-care are essential for maintaining emotional well-being. By modelling these behaviours, parents teach their children the value of self-respect and resilience.

Application in the School Setting
Implementing the principles from Good Inside can enhance the school experience for children. When parents and educators collaborate with a shared understanding of a child's emotional needs, they create a consistent and supportive environment. This partnership can lead to improved behavior, academic performance, and overall well-being.

Conclusion
Dr. Becky Kennedy's Good Inside offers a refreshing perspective on parenting, focusing on connection, empathy, and self-awareness. By embracing these principles, parents can navigate the challenges of raising emotionally healthy and resilient children. Incorporating these strategies into daily life can lead to more harmonious family dynamics and a positive school experience. For those interested in exploring these concepts further, Good Inside provides a comprehensive guide to becoming the parent you aspire to be.

It is available in hardcopy or audiobook.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions [email protected]

Mrs Jacoline Petersen
Director of Student Counselling
Dr Coulson Webinar - Carrots and Sticks

Tired of yelling, time-outs, and reward charts that don’t seem to work? Join Dr Justin Coulson for Carrots and Sticks, a thought-provoking presentation that dismantles traditional discipline methods and reveals powerful, positive parenting strategies. In this presentation you will:

- Discover the ineffectiveness of punishment and rewards: Learn why these common tactics can backfire and hinder your child’s development.
- Explore science-backed alternatives: Gain practical tools and techniques for guiding your child’s behaviour without resorting to punishment or bribery.
- Empower yourself with positive parenting skills: Build a more harmonious and connected relationship with your child through effective communication and collaboration.

This session is for you if you want to:

- Move beyond outdated discipline methods.
- Foster positive behaviour in your child.
- Create a more peaceful and joyful home environment.
- Connect with other parents seeking positive parenting solutions.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a renowned parenting expert and gain valuable insights for raising happy, confident children.

Register online https://happyfamiliesfamilyeducation.ac-page.com/awj-carrots-hfs
Police Parent Presentation

ThinkUKnow Parent Information Session – Tuesday 17 June

We’re inviting all parents to attend a special information session at the College, hosted by the Liverpool City Police Area Command.

ThinkUKnow is a nationally recognised program that helps parents and carers better understand the online environment our young people are navigating. The session will explore how children and teens use technology, the challenges they may face, and how we can work together to keep them safe online.

DATE: Tuesday 17 June 2025
TIME: 8.30am (45-minute session)
WHERE: Held at the College – final location will be confirmed based on registration numbers

This is a free event, but registration is essential.

https://forms.gle/WBTxNrWSGGZfmWvs5

We encourage all parents to take part in this important session.

LearningBack to Top

Learning in Prep

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Prep

Ph 3.jpg

Prep

In Prep this Term, we’ve been learning how to keep our bodies, minds, and hearts healthy.

We enjoyed reading The Colour Monster by Anna Llenas, a story that helped us to explore different feelings like happiness, sadness, anger, and calm. We talked about how it’s healthy to name our feelings and share them with others.

After reading the book, the children created their own Colour Monsters by choosing colours that matched how they were feeling. This activity helped the children understand that all feelings are okay and that talking about them is an important part of staying healthy and happy.

Prep

Mrs Candice Mannix
Junior School Teacher - Prep Purple
Year 5 and 6 Drama

Year 5 and 6 students recently impressed with their scripted drama performances, presented as the culmination of their work this semester.

Throughout the unit, they explored the elements of drama through games, improvisation, and script work. Working in groups, students collaborated to interpret scripts and bring their characters to life in their class performances. This task showcased their creativity, confidence, and strong teamwork skills. It was a fantastic celebration of their learning and effort—well done, Year 5 and 6!

Year 5 drama
Mrs Lianne Brown
Chance and Probability

Year 5 Maths Learning – Chance and Probability

Do you know the origin of the term “Buckley’s chance”?

This week, Year 5 students have been learning about ways to represent probabilities in Maths. This has involved playing a number of chance games, using cards, dice, spinners, and random generators. This has certainly been a fun way to learn! We have also talked about everyday language used to describe chance events.

Mr Stroud told us the story of William Buckley, an Australian convict who escaped from his colony and fled into the bush in the early 1800s. He was given a very small chance of survival. However, he was accepted by a local Aboriginal tribe and lived happily with them for about 30 years. “Buckley’s chance” has come to mean “no chance”, but in William’s case, he survived against all odds. What a great link between our learning in Maths and History!

maths and history

Mr Peter Butchatsky
Junior School Teacher - Year 5 Team Leader
Mystery in the Junior Library

Missingbook#1.jpeg

Can you solve the mystery of the missing book?

Missingbook#2.jpeg

Can you solve the mystery of the missing book?

Missingbook#3.jpeg

Can you solve the mystery of the missing book?

Missingbook#4.jpeg

Can you solve the mystery of the missing book?

This Term the Junior library has an exciting new competition for students in Years 1-6.

There is a mystery in the library, a book has gone missing! Thankfully the naughty person who took it has left several clues behind, can the students of Thomas Hassall solve the mystery before its too late?

Using at least one of the clues left in the library students will need to write/create an exciting solution to the mystery. Who took the book? Where did it go? How did they find it? Its all up to their imagination. Every entry submitted will go into the draw to win a brand new book of their choice. 

So come up the library, grab a detective's notepad and help us solve the great mystery of the missing book!

Mrs Arabella Issa & Mr Michael Smith
Junior IRC Library Team
2025 Parli-Flicks Short Film Award

Students are invited to take part in the 2025 Parli-Flicks Short Film Award.

This year, the theme is: “What do I value about democracy?” It invites students to create a one-minute short film that explores what democracy means to them and why it is important that all citizens have a say in decision-making processes.

The competition is open to NSW students in Years 5 to 12. Five entries will be shortlisted in these categories:

- Best Regional
- Best Metropolitan
- Best Primary (Years 5 & 6)
- Best Junior Secondary (Years 7 – 9)
- Best Senior Secondary (Years 10 – 12)

One of these entries will receive the Parli-Flicks Prize 2025—a $500 prize and a trophy. All shortlisted entries will receive $100 (to be shared by the entrants), and each shortlisted student will receive an individual medal. Shortlisted finalists will be invited to an awards night at the NSW Parliament in Sydney, with travel and accommodation assistance provided to regional finalists.

Entries close at midnight on 8 August 2025.

To enter, students can work individually or in a group of up to three. Films can be live action or animated, drama or comedy, documentary-style or direct-to-camera. The main requirement is to answer the theme question within one minute.

Teachers can use the Teacher Guide to help students develop their entries. More information, past winning entries, and the competition guidelines are available via Parliamentary Education & Engagement: [email protected].

I believe this competition is a wonderful way to engage students with the values of democracy and help them find their voice as active citizens. I would greatly appreciate it if you could encourage your students to enter.

Please let me know if you have any questions or would like support in sharing this opportunity with your school community.

Nathan Hagarty MP
Member for Leppington
Art meets Chemistry

Art meets Chemistry in this new and exciting international competition!

Open to students aged 5–19, they are invited to submit their entry on the theme 'What is chemistry to me?'. Entries are to be submitted between 1 August and 1 October for a chance to win a share of $2500!

Entry is free. For more information and to enter, please visit http://www.raci.org.au/ICAAC

 
Prep to Year 6 Writing Competition Winners

The Junior School recently held a writing competition, based around the theme of “Clouds”.

We were thrilled with how many students entered a story or poem around this theme. Ms Hansford and I loved reading through the entries from the finalists for each grade. It was challenging to pick winners but those pieces that received places were chosen for their originality, descriptive language, sophistication of sentences and storytelling. The winning entries will be published in a digital format, enabling more to have access to these. This will be released late Term 4. 

Prize winners will be rewarded with a certificate and a book related prize. Our winners and highly commended achievers from Year 1 – 6 will also take part in a writing workshop with published author, Deborah Abela, to hone their writing skills. This will occur later in Term 2.

Well done to all who entered and congratulations to the winners listed below. Stay tuned for an upcoming P – 6 illustrators’ competition.

Writing Competition Winners for Prep – 6

Grade 1st Place 2nd Place Highly Commended
PREP Roman X

Kai W

Samuel Y

David F

Lucy B
KINDER

Quinn B
Alexis V

 Ruby N

Alessia J

Savanna M

Olivia F
YEAR 1 Valentina I Oscar R

Lana K

Georgia A

Harlow G
YEAR 2

Amelia J

 Violet K

Harrison M

Noah Q

Olivia K
YEAR 3

Scarlett B

 Evie R

Maison G

Allegra D
YEAR 4

Delphy M

 Elena M

Arwen D

Zane S

YEAR 5

Hannah L

Elise M

Leo V

 Elizer S

Mariam I

James L
YEAR 6 Oliver I Ira S

Orlando C

Xander S

Claudia A


 

Mrs Alex Saville
Gifted and Talented Liaison for the Junior School
ICAS Update

The ICAS competitions will be running again this year for students in Years 3-6.

Instructions regarding how to enrol have been emailed to you.

Please note there is a strict date by which to enrol. Enrolments past this date cannot be accepted.

If you have further questions, please contact Mrs Saville on [email protected]

Performing ArtsBack to Top

Independent School Dance Festival

Our dance students spent the day at the Independent School Dance Festival where they had the opportunity to showcase their talent as well as experience a salsa workshop. They also had the opportunity to watch other schools and see the versatility and amazing choreography of other independent schools within the area in styles of lyrical, contemporary and musical theatre.

It was a wonderful experience for our Primary Junior Troupe and MISA secondary dancers to perform in a professional theatre and they were an outstanding representation for the College. We thank our dance coaches for their hard-work in preparing the students and for working with them through the day and night backstage.

Dance

 

Mrs Melanie Whitelaw
Head of Dance

Junior School Sports Update

NSW CIS Primary Netball Gala Day

A huge congratulations to Bailey D, who proudly represented our college at the 2025 NSWCIS Primary Netball Trials held on May 29. As a shooter, Bailey showcased outstanding accuracy, composure, and court awareness against some of the strongest netball talent in the state, the team were lucky enough to meet the incredible Helen Housby who plays for the NSW Swifts and were showing some of the girls some of her special moves she does in the SSN. Competing at this level is a remarkable achievement, and we are so proud of her dedication and determination throughout the lead-up and on the day.


bailey

NSW PSSA Primary Boys Hockey Championships 

Congratulations to Kye Q, who recently played at the NSWPSSA Primary Boys Hockey Championships.  Kye played in games across 4 days, representing NSW CIS and the team finished 9th overall.

Well done Kye!

Hockey

Junior School Athletics Carnival – Final Results

After some delays due to the recent wet weather, we are excited to announce that all events from the Junior School Athletics Carnival have now been completed.

Congratulations to Carmichael House – winners of the overall points score! Your teamwork, enthusiasm, and athletic spirit were outstanding.

House points - 
1. Carmichael: 2,419
2. Lewis: 1,946
3. Wilberforce: 1,767
4. Liddell: 1,741

Age Champions
A huge well done to the following students who were named Age Champions for their consistent high performance across multiple events:

  Girls Boys
8 Year Alexis D Petar K
9 Year Millie B Cristiano B
10 Year Amia B Jeremy G
11 Year Ella K Hudson G
12 Year Violet O Rocky B

These students demonstrated not only athletic excellence but also great sportsmanship and determination.

CASA Junior Athletics Carnival Team

Students who have qualified to represent our school at the CASA Athletics Carnival next term will receive an email with details of their events. We are proud of all who have earned a place on the team and look forward to seeing them compete.

Training for selected students will take place every Friday, from 3:00 – 4:00 pm, with Coach Rob, commencing Friday 13 June. Attendance is encouraged to ensure the team is well-prepared for the competition ahead.

Thank You and Well Done!

A big thank you to all staff, students, and families who supported the carnival. Whether participating, cheering from the sidelines, or helping behind the scenes, your contribution made the event a success.

We are proud of all our junior school athletes – well done!

UPCOMING SPORTING DATES

UPCOMING EVENTS

WEEK 7

 Thursday 
12 June		 NSW CIS Primary Cross Country Carnival

WEEK 8

 Wednesday 18 June CSSA Gymnastics Competition

WEEK 9

 Tuesday 24 June NSW CIS Primary Boys Football Gala Day (team selected at the CASA trials)
Thursday 26 June

Years 5 & 6 NSW CIS BOYS Softball Trials **
Year 5 and 6 only
** Please contact Mrs Evans by 13 June if you are interested in trialling at the NSW CIS Boys Softball trials

DATES FOR YOUR CALENDAR
TERM 3 WEEK 3 - Thursday 7 August: CASA Junior Athletics Carnival
 

Mrs Sharon Evans
P-6 Sport Coordinator

Co-curricularBack to Top

Co-curricular Update

It’s been a vibrant fortnight of activity across the College, with students shining in the arts, sport and public speaking.

Yesterday, we were thrilled to host Choral Fest 2025, welcoming students from 11 other TASC schools. Over 700 students filled our halls with music, taking part in a vocal technique workshop and rehearsing a powerful combined choir item. A special thank you goes to our guest conductors, Mrs Francesca Olsen and Mrs Fiona Fitzgerald, for their expert leadership and inspiring presence. The day was a joyful celebration of creativity, collaboration and community through music, and it was wonderful to see so many students united in their love of singing.

Continuing the musical theme, our Senior String Orchestra performed at this week’s assembly under the baton of Mr Ehab Ibrahim. Their rendition of Celtic Dreaming and Dance by Australian composer Stephen Chin was both moving and technically impressive. The orchestra tackled the piece’s haunting melodies, shifting rhythms, and sweeping dynamics with great maturity and musicality, earning a warm and appreciative response from the audience.

In sport, energy has been high in Football and Basketball sessions, with students enthusiastically getting involved regardless of skill level. Our Football teams have been working hard on technique and teamwork, with this week’s focus on perfecting headers—resulting in some great aerial action and plenty of laughter. On the Basketball courts, drills and friendly scrimmages have kept the students active and engaged, building not only athletic skills but also friendships and a strong sense of team spirit.

Looking ahead, our much-anticipated MADE for Stage showcase is just around the corner! Taking place on June 18, this Creative Arts night will feature students from Years 7–12 presenting a vibrant mix of music, visual art, dance, drama and entertainment. Rehearsals and preparations are well underway, and the level of creativity and commitment from our students has been outstanding. It promises to be an inspiring evening that highlights the breadth of talent across our school community. Tickets are available now at www.thac.nsw.edu.au/book – don’t miss out!

Meanwhile, our Year 8 HICES Debating team represented the College with clarity, confidence and conviction in their recent round. Debating the topic "Should we ban bottled water in Australian cities?", our team took the affirmative stance and delivered a well-researched and passionately argued case. I had the pleasure of visiting the team during their preparation, and it was fantastic to see the depth of their thinking, the collaborative way they refined their arguments, and the enthusiasm they brought to the challenge. The students displayed strong teamwork, critical thinking and public speaking skills, and were excellent ambassadors for the College throughout the event.

From choirs to courts to compelling arguments, it's been a wonderful fortnight of growth, expression and participation. We look forward to what the next few weeks will bring as we continue to celebrate the achievements of our students across all areas of College life.

Mr Luke Robinson
Director of Co-curricular

CommunityBack to Top

The Way we connect

The Way We Connect – Keeping Our Community Informed

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!