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From the Principal
Principal

As we come to the end of Term 2, I want to recognise all that has taken place across our College community. It has been a long and full term, with much to celebrate, acknowledge and give thanks. In the busyness of College life, I am reminded again that God is generous and present with us. I am deeply thankful for His faithfulness, and for the support, encouragement and partnership of our families, staff and students throughout the term.

One of the joys of my role is the opportunity to see learning in action across the College. This week, I was invited into the Year 11 Ancient History classroom, where students are currently studying civilisations and significant sites from around the world. Their learning has taken them to places that have been excavated more than once, each discovery revealing more about the life, beliefs, traditions and practices of cultures from long ago.

history

The students transformed their classroom into a mini museum, and I was taken on a journey into the past by the students. Each exhibit reflected their thoughtful research, and they were able to share a genuine depth of knowledge and understanding based on the work they had done. I was particularly impressed by the detail students were able to explain, and by the way they connected artefacts, sites and evidence to the beliefs and daily lives of ancient peoples. Many thanks to Mrs Pearson, Coordinator of History, for inviting me to visit and to join the lesson.

history

This glimpse into ancient cultures connects beautifully with the excitement we have enjoyed this week as the flags of the modern world have been proudly flying around the College for our annual Unite Week celebrations. With the World Cup coinciding with Unite Week this year, there has been a wonderful sense of energy, colour and joy across the campus. I know that we all come from different backgrounds, with different heritage and experiences, but there is much that brings us together.

Just as ancient civilisations were shaped by their traditions and beliefs we too are shaped by the customs and communities that form part of our own stories. Our multicultural heritage is rich with distinct experiences and unique histories and these impact who we are today. At the same time, we share a common humanity: a desire for belonging, safety, dignity, friendship and hope.

Football, or soccer, has a remarkable way of reminding us of this. It is a truly global game, understood and enjoyed by people across many nations. We may cheer for different teams and proudly recognise different flags, but we can also appreciate the shared rules, skill, discipline and joy that the game brings. In this way, the World Cup offers us a small but meaningful picture of unity within diversity.

As a Christian College, many of us also share a common faith, and we are reminded that every person is made in the image of God and worthy of respect and care. My prayer is that our students continue to grow in their curiosity about the world and look for opportunities to live with kindness to others.

Thank you again for your support throughout Term 2. I hope you will have an enjoyable break.

How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!
Psalm 133:1

Mrs Karen Easton
Principal
From the Deputy Principal
Chris Wyatt

United as a learning community

This week is Unite Week! As this is my first Unite Week, I have loved the build-up. It has been great hearing the students and staff alike speak with enthusiasm, energy and passion about the activities of the week and the opportunity to celebrate one another’s cultural background. Excitement grew further when the flags were hung around the College last week.

I have loved learning about the community across my first semester at the College. There are many things that unite us as a learning community. We are a community of rich cultural heritage. It has been wonderful to see the students’ ownership of this. We are a united community committed to respecting one another. It has been encouraging to hear the student leaders speak about this at key College events and to see it evident across the student body.

Over the last week it has been clear that we are almost universally united by the World Cup. While not all students and families are captured by the excitement of the global event, there has certainly been a buzz amongst the students (and staff and parents) as ‘my team’ has entered the competition. I’m glad that FIFA looked after things to ensure that it coincided so perfectly with Unite Week.

I have also learnt that we are united by a commitment to holistic learning. Over the last couple of weeks, we have had the opportunity to celebrate the achievement, participation and engagement of students across the term at the Junior School Celebration Assembly and the regular Senior School Assembly. It has been wonderful to hear of the breadth of the students’ involvement from class-based learning, sport representation, Duke of Edinburgh's award, dance, music and more. We have a vibrant College full of rich learning opportunities.

This dedication to learning extends beyond our students. Last week, I was chatting with someone about this Friday being the last day of term, and I was quick to point out that our staff will actually be back on Monday and Tuesday of the following week for two professional development days. Far from a chore, the opportunity for our staff to engage in sustained learning together is invaluable. It provides a vital chance for individual and collective growth, allows us to further develop our cohesive approach to teaching, and gives us space to reflect on student progress. I look forward to this time together, knowing it will strengthen our team as we continue to focus on our students and their holistic growth.

As the holidays arrive, I trust the break will provide the rest and refreshment that each member of our community needs to return for another fantastic term of shared learning.

Mr Chris Wyatt
Deputy Principal
From the Head of Junior School
Kylie

As we approach the final week of term, there is a great sense of excitement and activity across our Junior School. It has been wonderful to see students engaged in their learning, serving others and participating enthusiastically in the many opportunities that College life provides.

This week we begin Unite Week, a special time for our College community to come together and celebrate the rich cultural diversity that makes our Junior School such a vibrant and welcoming place. As a Christian community, we give thanks for the unique gifts, backgrounds and experiences that each person brings, recognising that we are all wonderfully made in God's image. Unite Week provides an opportunity to learn from one another, show kindness and respect, and celebrate the strength that comes from belonging to a diverse community.

There is much to look forward to in the days ahead. Students will complete the remaining events of our Athletics Carnival, and we look forward to cheering one another on as students demonstrate perseverance, sportsmanship and House spirit. We are also excited for the Year 4 Band Concert, where students will have the opportunity to showcase the skills they have been developing throughout the semester.

Over the coming week, Semester 1 reports will be released, providing families with an opportunity to celebrate student growth, effort and achievement. We are grateful for the dedication of our staff who work so diligently to support every child's learning journey. 

Students from Prep to Year 6 will also enjoy visits from authors, inspiring a love of reading, writing and storytelling. These experiences play an important role in nurturing curiosity, creativity and a lifelong appreciation of literature.

Looking ahead to Term 3, we warmly encourage families to participate in our upcoming Learning Partnership Meetings held during Week 1. These conversations provide a valuable opportunity for parents, students and teachers to work together in supporting each child's continued growth and development.

As the holidays approach, thank you for your ongoing partnership and support throughout what has been a busy and rewarding term. We wish all our families a safe, restful and joyful break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for another exciting term of learning.

Mrs Kylie Singles
Head of Junior School
From the Chaplain
Denis Oliver

On Wednesday 10 June, I found myself doing something I don’t usually enjoy: getting up very early for a 6.30am prayer meeting at the ICC. It felt too early at the time, but it quickly became clear that God was doing something special. Around 1,800 believers gathered from a wide range of disciplines (including many Anglican schools) to pray for Sydney. Together, we lifted up our city: our communities, the media and arts, schools, the marginalised and those working in the health industry. It was a powerful reminder that Jesus is working in many fields through his people.

prayer breakfast

The main speaker, Tim Kirk, was a charismatic Catholic theologian and winemaker! He shared a compelling picture of faith through the lens of his craft. He spoke about the esprit de terroir - the “soul” of a vineyard’s environment. A good winemaker, he explained, doesn’t fight the conditions but works with what has been given.  This reminded me that, to be a good teacher and parent, I had to know what God had given me to work with.

Tim also gave us three rules for being a successful vintner, which he applied to being a Christian:

  • - We need a genuine quality product. Am I producing good fruit?
  • - We need an optimistic vision: How will the product bless people?
  • - We need the capacity to communicate well. We need to be creative so people can share the fire Jesus inspires.

I saw it through a College context. Am I giving students quality? Are my lessons worth being part of?  How can I bless students with Jesus? Do I know my students? Do I know their esprit de terroir? Knowing their strengths and weaknesses, have I been creative in communicating Jesus to them?

Whether in my capacity as a parent or teacher, this is hard work. But I am not doing it alone.

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener… Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself… I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
- John 15

Reverend Denis Oliver
College Chaplain
The Staffroom Series

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.

 

Nathalia M

What is your role at the College and how long have you been here?

I am a Secondary teacher, teaching History and Geography in the HSIE (Human Society and its Environment) faculty. I have been at Thomas Hassall since 2024, so this is my third year here now!

What do you love about teaching at Thomas Hassall?

I love helping students get 'the big picture' of the story God is writing through History and in the natural world. 

I love that Thomas Hassall as a College supports students to discover and develop the skills and talents they've been given to better serve not only themselves but their community.

!

What is one thing students or staff might be surprised to learn about you?

In my free time, I love reading poetry and writing music. I believe the written word, especially when put to music, can be so helpful in giving people language for what they are thinking and feeling. My own life has been so deeply impacted by the gift of poetry and music, and I just love participating in this creative process myself. If you know any good poems or have been listening to any good new music recently, please come and share it with me - I love discovering new poems and music!

If you weren’t a teacher, what would you be doing?

If I wasn't a teacher and if I could start over with the knowledge that I have today, I think I would have pursued midwifery. I love the idea of supporting the health, safety and dignity of mothers and babies during pregnancy, childbirth and the early stages of life. I think providing medical care and emotional guidance to women throughout the birthing process is such an important and necessary area in strengthening family wellbeing and maintaining a healthy society. I would have loved to be a midwife and help women as they give life to future generations.

Do you have a favourite Bible verse?

My favourite Bible verse is Psalm 27:4, which reads "One thing I ask from The Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of The Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of The Lord and to seek Him in His temple."

This has been my favourite Bible verse since I was in Year 3 and it has become an anchor for my soul through good and bad days. Reminding myself of this verse always brings such comfort to my heart and reminds me of my life's purpose.

Share a learning moment that has brought you joy recently.

This term in my Year 9 Extreme History class we have been studying historical films and how history is constructed and conveyed through different film techniques. Recently, students have been given a chance in class to research, plan, write and create their own historical films based on a major historical event of their choosing. Seeing students be creative in their choices of how to present history in a way that is historically accurate but also entertaining for a mass audience has been so exciting! I think we may have some future screenwriters and film directors in our midst here at the College!

 

What is your role at the College and how long have you been here?

I am the Science lab assistant, and I have been blessed to work here at Thomas Hassall for 21 years.

What do you love about teaching at Thomas Hassall?

I love the College spaces and working with the wonderful, dedicated staff. I love being part of students' learning in their environment and I love being enveloped in God’s love every day.

!

What is one thing students or staff might be surprised to learn about you?

I am an identical twin, and my twin sister also works at the College.

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing?

I would be baking up some delicious treats for family, friends and those in need.

Do you have a favourite Bible verse?

One of my favourites - “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” Proverbs 3:5-6.

Share a learning moment that has brought you joy recently.

I just love observing students complete a science practical and seeing them proud, happy and smiling with what they have learnt and achieved.

sharon H

 

Angela

What is your role at the College and how long have you been here?

 I am a Junior School Learning Enrichment Assistant. I started at Thomas Hassall as a casual staff member in 2023.

What do you love about working at Thomas Hassall?

My previous workplace was a large office in Sydney’s CBD where there was little opportunity to speak openly about my faith.  Working at Thomas Hassall has been such a blessing because I can openly share my faith, pray with students and staff and talk about Jesus every day.  Being part of a Christ-centred community is incredibly special. 

!

What is one thing students or staff might be surprised to learn about you?

 I own two pygmy bearded dragons named Cloud and Aerith.

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing?

I would probably still be working in an office or finding another way to support and encourage children.

Do you have a favourite Bible verse?

I have so many! But I have recently loved reading from Lamentations 3:

22 Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
23 They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“Therefore I hope in Him!”

Share a moment in your role that has brought you joy recently.

As a Learning Enrichment Assistant, there are so many wonderful moments in my work.  Recently, a student became overwhelmed by a mathematics concept and said, “This is so hard! I’ll never get it.”  We worked through the task together and before we had even finished his worksheet, he smiled and said, “Thanks, Mrs Tashman. I don’t need you anymore!”  What a win!  Seeing students grow in confidence and finding enjoyment in their learning is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.

Upcoming Dates

 

Date

Event

Thursday 25 June Author Visit - Prep 2-Day & Kindy
Friday 26 June  UNITE Cultural Dress 
LAST DAY OF TERM 2
Monday 20 July  FIRST DAY OF TERM 3
Tuesday 21 July Learning Partnership Meetings
Thursday 23 July  Learning Partnership Meetings
Friday 24 July  Parent Cafe Seminar

Please see Sports Update articles for all important sporting dates.  

Holiday Programs

Football Holiday Program

foot

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

dance

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

netball

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

volleyball

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

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! 

Wednesday 8 - Friday 10 July from 8.30am - 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 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

Wildfire Holiday

Come down and train with some of Camden Valley Wildfire's best coaches during the break at a 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).

Half Day sessions (single) = $40.00 (9.30am to 12.00pm OR 12.30pm to 3.00pm)

Half Day sessions (both days) = $70.00 (9.30am to 12.00pm OR 12.30pm to 3.00pm)

Full Day training (single) = $70.00 (9.30am to 3.00pm - lunch from 12.00pm to 12.30pm)

Full day training (both days) = $120.00 (9.30am to 3.00pm - lunch from 12.00pm to 12.30pm)

TheirCare Holiday Programs

tHEIRCARE

Book a fun winter activity today!

Junior School Illustrators Competition

We are excited to invite all students from Prep to Year 6 to participate in our Illustrators Competition.

Submissions must be entered by Friday 14 August and are to be given to the class teacher.

Please note: All entries are to be completed at home.

Inspiration: Students will illustrate an excerpt from our winning writing competition entries. Each class has been assigned a specific excerpt. These have been emailed to you.

Student entries:

  • May involve the use of pencils, paints, crayons, pastels and/or mixed media
  • May use digital art components
  • Must be on unlined A4 paper (no A3, canvas or cardboard backing will be accepted). Please do not laminate, mount or frame these as it is hard to scan for publication.
  • Must not involve AI 
  • Must be the student’s own work
  • Must be original and not previously awarded any prizes in other competitions

Entries must be labelled on the back of the illustration with the illustrator’s first and last names, class and house.

Entries will be chosen from every Year level to be published in the Thomas Hassall Online Magazine at the end of the year. Winning entries from each grade will also receive an art related prize. We encourage all students to participate and look forward to seeing their creativity and artistic talents on display.

Questions can be directed to [email protected]  

Mrs Alex Saville
Gifted and Talented Liaison for the Junior School

Uniform Shop Holiday Hours

Thomas Hassall Anglican College Uniform Shop will have amended trading hours over the holiday period. 

July Holiday Trading 2026

  • Friday 17 July 9:00am – 4:00pm

Term 3 2026: Normal trading hours resume Monday 20 July 2026

  • Monday 7:30am – 4:00pm
  • Wednesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
  • Friday 7:30am – 4:00pm

Fitting Appointment

Please use the button below to book an appointment.

Online Store

Enjoy the convenience of online shopping.

Orders will be filled when the store is next open.

www.midford.com.au Passphrase: Thomas1997

Please contact the uniform shop:

Phone: 02 8776 1193

Email: [email protected]

Cafe Chat Series: Navigating Gen AI Together

In our first Cafe Chat Series for the year, we invite parents to connect with us for a relaxed conversation about topics that matter to our students, families and College community.

This session will focus on Generative Artificial Intelligence and its place in learning. Gen AI is already changing the way students search, create, think and learn. As a College, we want to help students use these tools wisely, safely and with discernment.

A staff working party has been exploring a range of Gen AI tools to identify what best suits our students and learning context. Our aim is to provide a consistent, College-endorsed tool that supports equity of access, protects student data and helps students move away from external platforms with varying privacy standards.

Most importantly, we want students to become informed navigators of AI. This means understanding what Gen AI can do, recognising its limitations and using it responsibly.

The College is working towards making an appropriate Gen AI tool available to students in Years 7–12 from early next term. Staff training and testing will continue in preparation.

Parents are invited to join us immediately after Parent Café for this Cafe Chat Series forum. It will be an opportunity to ask questions, hear more about the College’s approach and consider how we can partner together as students learn to navigate this rapidly changing space.

Date: Friday 24 July
Time: 8.30am
Location: Cafe MRK

EventsBack to Top

UNITE Week

This week is our annual College Unite Week. It is a wonderful celebration of our cultural diversity. 

On Friday 26 June, students in both Junior School and Senior School are invited to wear an outfit that represents their cultural background. This could range from full traditional dress, an outfit featuring colours from 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 options, they are to arrive in their full winter College uniform.

LearningBack to Top

Year 3 Visit Lizard Log

On Monday this week, Year 3 enjoyed an exciting excursion to Lizard Log in the Western Sydney Parklands, where they explored many of the concepts from our Science unit this term on forces.

Throughout the day, students participated in a range of hands-on activities and experiments, including making slime, racing billy carts, and investigating how pushes, pulls, and friction affect movement. They were also treated to an engaging science show and had the opportunity to make and launch their own rockets, bringing their classroom learning to life in a fun and memorable way.

year 3

The weather was beautiful, making it a perfect day for outdoor learning and exploration. We were incredibly proud of how respectful and enthusiastic the students were throughout the excursion.

We hope your children have shared some of the many stories, discoveries, and scientific explanations from the day. It was a fantastic opportunity to see science in action and deepen their understanding through real-world experiences.

Mrs Lisa Sampson
Junior School Teacher - Year 3 Year Leader 

Year 6 Debating

Congratulations to our Year 6 debating team on winning the first round of the finals against Shellharbour Anglican College!

The topic for the debate was: “That social media sites should be completely blocked on company devices and networks.” Our team argued as the negative side, challenging the idea that a complete ban is not the best solution for workplaces.

The students highlighted that while social media can sometimes be a distraction, the issue is not social media itself, but how it is used. They explained that companies can set clear rules, time limits and expectations rather than blocking social media completely. The team also highlighted that a total ban could show a lack of trust between employers and employees, especially when adults are capable of making responsible choices at work.

They went on to explain that social media has many professional uses. It can help businesses promote products, build brand recognition, advertise job opportunities and connect with customers. Students also explained that many workers, including teachers, designers, office workers and small business owners, may use social media to keep up with current trends, learn new skills and support their professional development.

The team responded well to the Affirmative arguments about productivity, security risks, wasted time, reputation and cost. They argued that companies already have ways to manage cyber safety and monitor technology use, and that short breaks can help improve morale and productivity. They also pointed out that a complete ban may not solve the problem, as employees could simply find ways around it.

Well done to the team on an outstanding result and a fantastic start to the finals!

Mr David Stroud
Year 5 Year Leader - Debating Coach

Amazing Me with Rowena Thomas

The “Amazing Me” incursion took place in Week 9 for students in Years 4, 5 and 6. This valuable program, along with an evening session attended by parents and their children, provided a safe and supportive environment to learn about God’s incredible design and how our amazing bodies grow and develop.

amazing me

Both the in-school sessions and the evening presentation highlighted the importance of understanding how our bodies work in a positive, respectful and age-appropriate way, rather than through potentially misleading or unhealthy influences such as social media or inappropriate conversations.

The sessions encouraged open and respectful discussion around topics that can sometimes feel sensitive or embarrassing for students. We commend all students for their maturity and positive behaviour throughout the experience, particularly as they navigate these important conversations alongside their peers.

Mrs Donna Schatzman
Director of Operations and Welfare

Kindergarten Creativity on Display

Our Kindergarten artists have been exploring how lines, shapes, colours and patterns can express feelings and tell stories in their artwork. Inspired by book illustrations, famous artworks and Indigenous art techniques, students have been building their fine motor skills while growing their creativity and confidence.

Over the past few weeks, the children have been working through a multi-step art project. They began with a directed drawing of a landscape scene, followed by painting with watercolours. As they added our their details and creative ideas, the children enjoyed seeing how each artwork became unique and reflected their individual style. In the coming weeks, they will continue developing their pieces by adding patterns and textures using fine pens and markers.

These whole-class photos capture the excitement as our young artists proudly share their favourite artworks from the semester.

Mrs Candice Mannix
Junior School Teacher 

 

Parables Come to Life Through Music

In our Christian Studies unit this term, students in Years 3 and 4 have read some of Jesus’ parables. We have learnt that parables are simple stories Jesus told that contain a deeper, “heavenly” meaning.  Trying to understand the deeper meaning has sometimes been a challenge, but there have been lots of excellent questions and discussion.

To help us remember and understand these stories, musician and children’s entertainer Van Sereno has composed some catchy songs. We’ve been listening to many of these - from his album Parables during the term. Close friend and collaborator, our very own Mr Byron Mark, has also contributed to Van’s music over several years.

Last Wednesday we were blessed to have Van Sereno join us to perform some of his songs. He asked the students about what they had learnt about the parables and it was great to hear their considered responses. Everyone sang and bopped along to his groovy rhythm guitar and soulful singing. Mr Mark also dropped in during the show and helped us to clap along. There were a few ‘dad jokes’ thrown in, which elicited plenty of giggles and groans. It was a fun event that left many of us wanting to hear more of Van’s music.

On behalf of the staff and students, I would like to thank Van Sereno for sharing God’s Word with us through song. We also appreciate the effort and initiative shown by Mr Mark in organising the visit. The mini concert certainly helped reinforce the effect of music on our learning and emotions. Upon leaving the hall, one student commented (with a smile), “I’ll never be able to get those words out of my head now!”

Mr Peter Butchatsky
Assistant Chaplain - Junior School

Junior School Sports Update

CSSA Gymnastics Competition Success

gym

 

Two of our students recently represented our College at the CSSA Gymnastics Competition. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to showcase their skills, dedication and hard work.

Evie M (Year 4) competed in the Level 5 competition and achieved outstanding results:

  • - Vault – 3rd place
  • - Beam – 1st place
  • - Bars – 4th place

Her consistent performance across all apparatus earned her the title of 1st Overall Champion, an incredible achievement.

Ella K (Year 6) competed in the Level 6 competition, also performing exceptionally well, securing 1st place on Vault and 4th place overall.

We are incredibly proud of both girls for their achievements.

NSW CIS Primary Girls Football trials

CIS FOOTBALL

Last Thursday, four students proudly represented the College and CASA at the NSW CIS Primary Girls Football Trials held at Valentine Sports Park. Tiana H and Elena M (Year 5) and Natasha T and Margaret O (Year 6) were selected to attend, demonstrating their commitment, skill and enthusiasm for the game.

Throughout the day, the CASA team competed against strong opposition from across the state.  While the level of competition was high, our students rose to the challenge, showing great determination and working effectively together as a team. The girls demonstrated excellent skills, teamwork and sportsmanship.

Congratulations to Tiana, Elena, Natasha and Margaret on their fantastic effort and for representing the College with pride.

Upcoming Dates

UPCOMING JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORTING DATES

WEEK 10 Tuesday 23 June

NSW CIS Primary Boys Football trials
– team selected at CASA Gala Day

Thursday 25 June

NSW CIS Primary Cross Country
– team selected at CASA Cross Country

TERM 3 - JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORTING DATES

WEEK 3 Thursday 6 August CASA Primary Athletics Carnival 
WEEK 7 Friday 4 September NSW CIS Primary Athletics Carnival
– team selected at CASA Cross Country
WEEK 8 Wednesday 16 September Winter IPPSO Finals Day
WEEK 9 Wednesday 23 September Winter IPPSO Finals Back-Up Date

Mrs Sharon Evans
P-6 Sport Coordinator

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!