Today, we celebrated Colours for Compassion, a Jersey Day that coincides with the excitement of the World Cup. Students and staff were encouraged to wear the colours of their chosen teams and to bring a donation to support our sponsor children. The World Cup is a wonderful event which brings together different nations under a common passion for football. We want to extend this shared passion to a deeper recognition of the rich diversity in the world and to promote a shared passion for looking after others.
Each jersey represents a nation, a culture, a story. It highlights that we all come from different backgrounds and perspectives. While we may support different teams, speak different languages, or live in different parts of the world, we want to be united in our shared humanity. This can be challenging particularly when we witness conflict and division. I want our students to be stronger than this and to have hearts that care for others.
Moments like today are a wonderful opportunity to pause and reflect on the many blessings we enjoy. We live in a country with freedom, access to education and opportunities that are not available to all. Around the world, many children face circumstances that limit their access to basic needs, schooling, and safety.
Through Compassion Australia, our College supports two children as part of a global program that is impacting millions of lives. There are more than 40 countries, and over 9,000 church partners working together to support the physical, emotional and spiritual development of children who do not have access to the same opportunities as we have. This is a huge undertaking and we are proud to be involved.
This week, funds raised through our gold coin donations will go directly towards supporting the children we sponsor. While a gold coin may feel small, it represents a choice to care for others and to look beyond ourselves.
The Bible gives us a clear picture of what compassion looks like. In Colossians 3:12, we are encouraged:
“Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
Compassion is more than feeling sorry for others. It is about recognising that people’s circumstances are different from our own and being prepared to respond with kindness and generosity. I know that this is not always easy, even for me as an adult. But being people who show compassion to others takes us beyond our own circumstances and offers hope.
Thank you for supporting today and helping your children to think about others as they celebrate the excitement of the World Cup.
I have been reflecting on the concept of being united recently. A couple of weeks ago we celebrated Reconciliation Week and over the last couple of weeks we have been engaged in planning for Unite Week which will occur in Week 10 of this term. These events focus on bringing people together to celebrate our collective identity in a way that honours and acknowledges our individual uniqueness.
On Wednesday of this week, I had the privilege of being part of a Thomas Hassall table at the annual Sydney Prayer Breakfast held at the ICC Sydney. It was an incredible event! The breakfast brought together 1800 Christian people from all walks of life and industries to stop and pray for the work of the Gospel across our city, state and country. The guest speaker for the event was Tim Kirk, who amongst other things, is a famous wine maker. Tim shared his faith journey as a proud, passionate and committed Christian Catholic man. He retold the story of when he first personally encountered Jesus at the age of 15 and the impact that moment has had on his life since then.
What struck me as I listened to Tim Kirk’s presentation was the power of the Gospel to not only change lives but also to unite. The power of his testimony had nothing to do with denomination or cultural or family background, it had everything to do with the truths of the Gospel: Jesus was born, lived, died and was raised to life. It is in this truth that the 1800 people across the ICC were united.
Back on campus, we are engaging in several events that have a similar power to bring us together. Today, for instance, we are celebrating the commencement of the FIFA World Cup by wearing Colours for Compassion. As a College, we have committed to supporting two young people across the world who are less fortunate than ourselves. Our Junior School supports Alondra, a 6-year-old girl from Peru. Our Senior School supports Hengki, a 15-year-old boy from Indonesia. Whilst only symbolic, this support makes a significant difference in the lives of these young people. The money raised through the students’ gold coin donation will directly support our Compassion sponsor children. As the World Cup begins and loyalty for different countries resounds, we are united by our efforts to make a difference and be generous to others.
I have heard a lot about Unite Week and I am very much looking forward to it. The students and staff speak with such passion and enthusiasm about what a wonderful cultural celebration it always is. As we prepare for Unite Week, we have planned a series of learning experiences to focus on cultural awareness, cultural appreciation and cultural responsiveness. These learning experiences will take place in the Manners Matter lessons in Junior School and Pastoral Care groups in the Senior School. These important discussions and reflective exercises will help to frame the cultural celebration that takes place in Unite Week. May it be a time where each person’s cultural background and uniqueness can be celebrated, honoured and respected and where our College community is further united.
One of the great privileges of working in a school is being surrounded by words every day. We read them, write them, speak them, listen to them and increasingly post them online. Words shape our thinking, our relationships and our understanding of the world around us.
Recently, I finished reading The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams. The novel explores the significance of words and how they help us make sense of our experiences. It reminded me that words are far more than letters on a page; they have meaning, power and influence.
Each week in Junior School, I share a "Word of the Week" with students. Over the next two weeks, our focus word will be optimism. Optimism is the ability to look for the good in a situation and to believe that things can improve, even when circumstances are difficult. In child-friendly terms, optimism means having hope and believing that tomorrow can be better than today.
While some people may naturally lean towards being optimistic, optimism is not simply something you are born with. It is a skill that can be learned, practiced and strengthened over a lifetime. Every day we have opportunities to choose how we respond to challenges, disappointments and setbacks.
As a Christian school, we recognise that our ultimate source of hope is found in God. The Bible reminds us that God is faithful and that we can trust Him, even when life is difficult. Christian optimism is not pretending that problems do not exist; rather, it is confidently placing our hope in God's goodness and His promises.
Words play an important role in developing optimism. The words we speak to ourselves matter. The words we speak to others matter. The words we write, text and post online matter. Encouraging words can build someone up, while careless words can leave lasting hurt.
In Junior School, we want our students to be known for using words that bring kindness, encouragement and hope to those around them. We want them to think carefully before they speak, write or post, asking themselves: Are my words true? Are they kind? Are they helpful?
Reading also matters. Through reading, students encounter new ideas, expand their vocabulary and develop their understanding of the world. Books introduce us to words that help us express our thoughts, feelings and beliefs more clearly. Strong readers become stronger communicators, and strong communicators are better equipped to positively influence others.
Over the coming weeks, I encourage families to talk about optimism at home. Celebrate effort, look for opportunities to be thankful and discuss how words can be used to encourage others. Together, we can help our children develop a hopeful outlook, grounded in faith, kindness and wisdom.
"The tongue has the power of life and death."
Proverbs 18:21
I was fortunate to walk into a Year 4 classroom yesterday whilst a few students were promoting the books they were reading to their peers. What a wonderful environment to share their growing love of reading.
One of the students was looking for a new read and expressed interest in Emily Rodda novels. I suggested he try ‘Rowan of Rin’, one of my favourites. How special to be greeted in the playground this morning by that student, who delightedly told me he had started the book and was loving it. It made my day.
Every day at the top gate, I see a couple of students holding books in their hands. I ask them what they are reading and if they are enjoying it. Many happily tell me about the book and why they chose it.
Our words and our enthusiasm count. Helping our students gain an enjoyment of reading is crucial to learning. We can see when students extend their vocabulary through reading. We can see how images become richer in their writing when students read quality literature. We can see how friendships can form through the sharing of favourite books.
Please consider using this link when helping your children choose their next quality book. The site lists all the books chosen for the 2026 Premier’s Book Challenge:
Offering a wide range of genres, the list will support you encourage your child to grow in their reading choices with quality books. Many will be available in local libraries.
Let’s continue to build a community of literacy at Thomas Hassall.
One of the joys of my role is meeting with individual students to offer support and encouragement. At the end of each meeting I offer to pray with and for them, and almost always they gladly accept. Children love to pray and they love knowing someone is praying for them.
Yet in my own life, prayer isn’t always my first response to stress or worry. Even when my own children are in need, I can let doubt, pride, or simple forgetfulness get in the way.
Recently, my daily devotions have reminded me again of God’s power and provision through prayer, not only in the stories of others, but in the many ways God has faithfully answered my own prayers.
The Bible is clear about the transformative power of prayer. Paul writes:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:6–7
Praying with and for our children is a great privilege. It shows them how deeply we care, and it points them to a God who is powerful and attentive to every detail of their lives.
Lately, the first verse of a much‑loved old hymn has been echoing in my mind. I offer it as an encouragement for us all to spend more time praying with and for our children:
What a friend we have in Jesus,
all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
all because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer! - Joseph Medlicott Scriven (1855)
Welcome to The Staffroom Series, a new feature where we introduce you to some of our teachers and support staff across the College.
Through this series, we will learn a little more about their roles and get to know the people behind the work they do each day.
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What is your role at the College and how long have you been here?
I started teaching at Thomas Hassall Anglican College in 2005 which makes this my 22nd year here. I am a TAS teacher and focus mostly on manual arts based subjects. This aligned well having completed a Certificate III in Cabinetmaking. More recently I trained as a VET Construction teacher and am now helping stage 6 students in my role as the VET Coordinator.
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What do you love about teaching at Thomas Hassall?
My greatest joy in teaching is giving students an opportunity to find a skill, or talent, or interest and helping them to develop their capacity in that area, and possibly even make a career of it.
What I love about Thomas Hassall is that it doesn’t try to hide students from the world, but encourages them to develop a Christian worldview and helps to give them the tools to stand strong in their Christian faith and influence those around them.
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What is one thing students or staff might be surprised to learn about you?
I own an industrial sewing machine. I bought it when I wanted to make a canvas cover for my box trailer. Since then it has been very useful for making canvas products like camping equipment and storage bags for my 4wd. I also tan my own leather for making leather goods.
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If you weren’t a teacher, what would you be doing?
My favourite place to be is somewhere quiet in front of a campfire. I would probably be travelling Australia in my 4wd finding short blocks of work as a farmer or builder.
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Do you have a favourite Bible verse?
As a father and husband I recognise the importance of stewardship I carry for my family. Therefore I love the message in Joshua 24:15 “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
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Share a learning moment that has brought you joy recently.
Last week the Year 12 Construction classes had an incursion day where they completed 2 concrete projects. A 6m2 pad to facilitate drainage of water across a path, this used 60 premixed concrete bags and a mixer. The other was a 27m2 footpath with 4m3 delivered in a truck. All students had a successful day and learned a lot about how hard a full day of work can be.
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What is your role at the College and how long have you been here?
I am a Learning Enrichment Innovator in our Junior School and work with the TAS department in Senior School. My role involves supporting innovative teaching and learning across K to 12, particularly in STEM, digital technologies and inclusive education.
I joined the College in Semester 2, 2025, as a consultant one day a week, and at the beginning of 2026, I became a permanent part of the team. I have enjoyed working with both students and staff to create engaging learning experiences, both in the classroom and as co-curricular programs. I also head up the after-school STEM Robotics program for Years 7 to 9.
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What do you love about teaching at Thomas Hassall?
I love helping students discover that they are capable of more than they thought possible. Whether it is building a robot, solving a problem, creating something new or overcoming a challenge, those moments of growth are incredibly rewarding. At Thomas Hassall, I appreciate the strong sense of community, the willingness to innovate, and the genuine care shown for students and staff.
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What is one thing students or staff might be surprised to learn about you?
Many people know me through STEM and robotics, but they might be surprised to learn that I am also a rope skipping coach and have helped students represent Australia at six World Championships. I love seeing young people develop confidence and resilience both inside and outside the classroom. Learning should be “hard fun”.
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If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing?
I have wanted to be a teacher since I was in Year 3. But if I couldn’t be a teacher, I would probably be working in educational technology, innovation or product design - finding ways to use technology to solve real-world problems and help people learn or an astronaut.
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Do you have a favourite Bible verse?
My favourite Bible verses are Jeremiah 29:11 and Joshua 1:9. Together, they remind me that God has a plan and purpose for our lives and that we can face challenges with courage because He is always with us. These verses have guided me through many opportunities and changes throughout my personal and teaching journey.
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Share a learning moment that has brought you joy recently.
Recently, I watched a group of students spend weeks refining a robotics solution that wasn't working as they had hoped. Through perseverance, teamwork and problem-solving, they eventually achieved success. Seeing their excitement and pride reminded me that some of the most valuable learning happens when students embrace challenges and keep going when things get difficult. I have travelled internationally with student robotics and rope-skipping teams, but I still get excited every time when students see their robot successfully follow a line for the first time!
Today, students from Prep to Year 12 took part in our Colours for Compassion Mufti Day, filling the College with a vibrant display of team colours and sporting pride.
Inspired by the FIFA World Cup which kicked off this morning, students wore the colours of teams and nations they support, including international sides, state representative teams and local sporting clubs. Jerseys, scarves, beanies and team merchandise created a colourful atmosphere across the campus as students celebrated their love of sport.
Adding to the excitement, students from both Junior School and Senior School came together at lunchtime to watch the opening-day World Cup match between Czechia and South Korea. It was wonderful to see students of all ages sharing in the World Cup spirit and enjoying the game together.
More importantly, the day was an opportunity to show compassion for others. Through gold coin donations, students and families contributed to the College's ongoing support of our sponsor children through Compassion. While we enjoy celebrating the different nations represented in the World Cup, it is also a reminder that there are children and families in many countries doing it tough.
Thank you to everyone who participated and donated. It was wonderful to see our community come together, united by sport and a shared desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Following the passing of Dr Bryan Cowling, founding Principal of Thomas Hassall Anglican College, we have been grateful for the many tributes recognising his life, service and lasting contribution to our community.
Mr Nathan Hagarty MP, Member for Leppington, recently paid tribute to Dr Cowling in NSW Parliament and has kindly shared this with the College community. His tribute is embedded below.
We also thank Mayor Ned Mannoun and Liverpool City Council for the condolence letter and Mayoral Condolence Motion, acknowledging Dr Cowling’s significant contribution to education, local history and the wider Liverpool community. These documents are available to view below.
Week 10 is our annual College Unite Week. It is a wonderful celebration of our cultural diversity.
On Friday 26 June, students in both Junior and Senior School are invited to wear an outfit that represents their cultural background. This could range from full traditional dress, an outfit made up of colours of their national flag or a sporting jersey from their national team. If students do not have any cultural items to wear, they are encouraged to wear the colour orange, as this is the national colour of Harmony Day in Australia.
Please note: This day is NOT a mufti or free dress day. If students choose not to participate or wear any of the above mentioned, they are to arrive in their full winter College uniform.
Year 5 students recently took part in an exciting Mission to Mars Day, exploring what it might take for humans to travel to and live on the Red Planet.
Throughout the day, students participated in a range of hands-on learning experiences that combined science, technology, engineering and creativity. They heard from astrophysicists from the University of New South Wales, who spoke about how people may one day be sent to Mars and the challenges involved in such an ambitious mission.
Students then used Minecraft Education to plan and build a habitat that could sustain life on Mars. This required them to think carefully about shelter, food, water, oxygen and the harsh conditions of the Martian environment. Working collaboratively, they also designed a 3D toy that could be taken on the spaceship, considering both creativity and practicality for life in space.
Another highlight of the day was a glimpse into spacecraft history, with students examining LEGO models representing different generations of space exploration. This helped them see how technology has changed over time and how each step in history has contributed to future possibilities.
Mission to Mars Day was a wonderful opportunity for Year 5 students to ask big questions, solve problems, work as a team and imagine the future of space exploration. The day inspired curiosity, creativity and excitement as students considered what life beyond Earth might one day look like.
Mr David Stroud Junior School Teacher - Year 5 Year Leader
On Tuesday 9 June 2026, as part of their PASS (Physical Activity and Sports Studies) assessment, the Year 10 students took the lead in organising and running a Mini Olympics session for our Year 2 students.
Designed to celebrate participation, teamwork, sportsmanship and pure enjoyment, the event featured a variety of lively activities including soccer games, relay races, throwing challenges and classic Mini Olympic‑style events.
Our Year 2 students had an incredible time. Here’s what some of them shared about the day:
“It was the best day ever!” - Raza, 2 Yellow
“I really like playing soccer and doing the relay race!” - Jordan, 2 Blue
“The Year 10s were nice and they encouraged us to do the right thing.” - Samuel, 2 White
"I liked everything, except soccer!" - Kristine, 2 Yellow
“The Year 10 students planned it very well!” - Abigail, 2 Red
“It was a pretty good day!” - Clementine, 2 Blue
“I loved playing soccer!” - Rosie, 2 White
“I think it was awesome!” - Romeo, 2 Red
Ms Danica Potgieter Junior School Teacher - Year 2 Year Leader
Band Jam is a unique annual collaboration between regional Anglican schools, bringing together Intermediate and Senior bands for an immersive day of learning new music, building friendships and performing as a spectacular grand ensemble.
This year, 160 talented students from Thomas Hassall, Broughton Anglican, Danebank Anglican, and Oran Park Anglican joined forces for an intensive workshop with acclaimed guest conductor Joan Thorp. A Sydney-based musician, educator and arranger with 25 years of professional experience, as well as an accomplished French Horn player. Joan brought incredible expertise and energy to the podium.
Throughout the day, students were challenged to learn three completely new, distinct pieces from scratch:
- "Lightning" – An exciting, high-voltage piece that electrified the room.
- "Ijo Ajoyo" – An African celebration dance filled with complex and rewarding rhythmic challenges.
- "You’re the Voice" – The iconic Australian anthem, specially arranged for concert band by Joan herself.
While the diverse repertoire pushed our musicians to their creative limits, they rose to the occasion beautifully, finding a deep sense of camaraderie and shared purpose with their peers from neighbouring schools.
The memorable day culminated in an evening showcase for parents and families. The grand band delivered a powerful, full-bodied concert performance that beautifully celebrated the hard work and collaboration of the day.
On Thursday 4 June, a team of 31 enthusiastic students from Years 5 and 6 proudly represented our College at the CASA Soccer Gala Day. With 15 girls and 16 boys competing against seven other schools, it was a fantastic day where students showcased teamwork and determination.
Both teams demonstrated great skill and commitment throughout the competition. The girls team achieved an impressive equal 3rd place, while the boys team finished strongly in 5th place. All players are to be congratulated for their positive attitude and the way they supported one another on and off the field.
The day also served as a selection trial for the CASA representative team. We are thrilled to announce that several of our students were selected. Congratulations to the following boys: Jacob D, Jeremy G, Oliver S, Aiden P, and Christian K, and to the girls: Natasha T, Margaret O, Tegan H, and Elena M.
Well done to all students involved for representing our school with pride and for making the day such a success!
Three Year 6 Boys trial for the NSW CIS Primary Boys Softball team
Last Thursday, Liandro L, Coby O and Jayden H, from Year 6 proudly represented the College at the NSW CIS Primary Boys Softball Trials.
The competition was strong, with players from across the state demonstrating a high level of skill and determination. Our boys rose to the challenge, playing well throughout the day. They showed great teamwork, skills, and a positive attitude.
A special congratulations to Liandro for his outstanding performance and for being selected to represent NSW CIS at the NSW PSSA Championships in Term 3.
Congratulations also to Miss Breanna Evans on being named coach of the NSW CIS team, a well-deserved recognition of her expertise and commitment to the sport.
We are extremely proud of all three boys for their efforts and sportsmanship. Well done!
Running from Monday 13 July - Friday 17 July 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 $300 for the 5-Day Program.
Bookings now open from the button below.
Holiday Dance Program
Thomas Hassall Anglican College is offering a two-day indoor Holiday Dance Program during the school holidays.
The program is designed for students who enjoy dance and movement, with classes available for different ages and ability levels. Students will take part in a fun and active day of dance while developing confidence, technique and creativity.
Wednesday 15 July 2026
Students can choose from:
Intermediate to Advanced: 8–15 years
Beginner to Intermediate: 6–12 years
Friday 17 July 2026
Open classes will be split by age and ability, with styles including:
Acro
Jazz
Lyrical
Program Details
Time: 8.30am – 2.30pm
Location: Thomas Hassall Anglican College Campus
Cost: $65 for one day or $100 for two days
Please ensure your child brings a water bottle, recess, lunch and wears comfortable clothing suitable for dancing. Dance shoes are recommended but not required. Sports shoes are preferred.
Netball Holiday Program
Join us for a one-day Netball Holiday Clinic for beginners.
This clinic is designed for students in Years 3 to 7 who are new to netball or looking to build confidence with the basic skills of the game.
Date: Thursday 16 July 2026
Time: 8.30am – 2.30pm
Location: Thomas Hassall Anglican College Campus
Level: Beginner
Year Groups: Year 3 – Year 7
Cost: $50 per student
Students will participate in a fun and supportive day of netball skills, drills and game play. The clinic will focus on the basics of netball, including passing, catching, footwork, shooting, court positions and teamwork.
Please ensure your child brings a water bottle, recess, lunch and wears comfortable sporting attire with suitable sports shoes. All netball equipment will be provided.
Bookings are now open from the button below.
Volleyball Holiday Program
Take your game to the next level with a full day of skill-building, training and match play.
Thomas Hassall Anglican College is offering a Volleyball Holiday Clinic in collaboration with Sparrows Volleyball. The clinic is open to the community and is suitable for students from Year 6 to Year 12, with sessions available for different skill levels.
Players will develop strong foundations through practical drills and game-based activities, focusing on:
Serving, spiking, setting, digging and blocking
Building court awareness and positional play
Developing confidence through match play
Clinic Dates
Monday 13 July 2026 | Open Level
Year 6 – Year 12
Build your game from the ground up. This session is suitable for players of all skill levels, including those still developing confidence in volleyball. Students will learn core skills such as serving, spiking and setting through practical drills designed to sharpen technique and build court confidence.
Wednesday 15 July 2026 | Intermediate to Advanced
Year 7 – Year 12
This session is for experienced players ready to extend their skills. Students will focus on advanced tactics, precise positional play and higher-intensity training to strengthen their performance on the court.
Program Details
Time: 9.30am – 1.00pm
Location: Thomas Hassall Anglican College, 125 Kingsford Smith Avenue, Middleton Grange
Cost: $65 for one day or $100 for two days
Open to: Students from the College and wider community
Please ensure your child brings a water bottle, recess, lunch and wears comfortable sporting attire with suitable sports shoes. All volleyball equipment will be provided.
Bookings are now open from the button below.
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!
Wednesday 8 - Friday 10 July from 8.30am - 3.45pm.
Motiv8 Sports
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 6 - Tuesday 7 July
For ages Kindy to Year 6
College families can use the code "THAC20" for a 20% discount.
Wildfire Holiday Basketball Camp
Come down and train with some of Camden Valley Wildfire's best Coaches during the break at a school holiday Basketball Camp/Program that will bring an elite Basketball experience for players at all skill levels.
Sessions for ages: 5 - 18 Years
Dates: Wednesday 8 - Thursday 9 July
Please bring your own Basketball, towel, lunch & plenty of water (to stay hydrated).
1/2 Day sessions (single) = $40.00 (9:30 to 12:00pm OR 12:30 to 3:00pm)
1/2 Day sessions (both days) = $70.00 (9:30 to 12:00pm OR 12:30 to 3:00pm)
Full Day training (single) = $70.00 (9:30 to 3:00pm - lunch from 12:00 to 12:30pm)
Full day training (both days) = $120.00 (9:30 to 3:00pm - lunch from 12:00 to 12:30pm)
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!
