The Importance of Parent Involvement During Examination and Reporting Periods

As we approach the end of the year, examinations and reports are keeping both teachers and students busy. Year 11 exams are only halfway complete, and students in Years 7–10 will sit their final exams early in Term 4. During this period, teachers are also working hard to write, review, and send out interim and final reports.

This process involves hours of work, including drafting, reviewing, sending, setting, marking, and documenting student progress. Some students will show improvement, others will maintain consistency, and a few may have regressed. However, all students have room for growth.

In all of this, one key factor can significantly influence how students respond to feedback—the involvement of parents. Teachers view parents and guardians as essential partners in the education process. The conversations you have with your child about their exam results and report comments are crucial. They show your child that you value their education and support their teachers' efforts.

We thank you in advance for the active role you play in encouraging, guiding, and supporting your son or daughter. Your involvement makes a big difference in their learning journey.

Research has shown that when schools and families work together, children:

- do better
- stay in school longer
- are more engaged with their schoolwork
- go to school more regularly
- behave better
- have better social skills

More Resources

The construction of the new STEM building on Flynn Ave is well underway and has just reached a significant milestone. Many sections of the outside scaffolding are being dismantled around the building as the feature panelling is completed. These new amazing facilities will consist of eight Mathematics classrooms, six Science Labs, two General Learning Areas, a Design & Technology classroom and a new Mathematics staffroom. On the construction site there are over thirty tradespeople including electricians, plumbers, wall tilers, joinery installers and painters. They are all working together on both levels to provide state-of-the-art facilities which are planned to be completed by the end of Term 4 this year.

During the next school holidays, the K Block building next door will become a construction site. These major renovations will provide the College with brand new Textile and Food Tech classrooms and a new larger combined staffroom in addition to other improvements on both levels. All going well we plan to have the whole project completed for the start of Term 1, 2025. Both buildings will be connected by an upstairs enclosed “bridge” to improve access to the STEM departments.

After many months of meetings with our architects designing and planning these wonderful new facilities, we are getting really excited as we get closer to the next milestone when the carpet is laid and the new furniture and equipment is set up in the classrooms.

Mr Warren Murray 
Capital Works Project Manager

On Thursday night Year 12 had their third annual Trivia Night event, bringing together staff and students for an exciting event filled with laughter, teamwork, and friendly competition. Pizza and drinks were served as participants had to put their knowledge to the tests across a variety of categories such as sports, film, fake news, and trends in society bonus segments!

The night ended with the “Big Back Bandits” and the “Dino Nuggets” taking third and second place respectively, and the teachers from HSIE, anchored by Mr Butler - the “Dukes of THAC” taking the trophy home.

The highlight of the evening was Mrs Ford’s dancing to NUTBUSH City Limits, which sparked a spontaneous dance movement by students at the front of stage. In sync to perfection. Dr Gawthorne did say poetry in motion.

Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this event a memorable success. We can’t wait to see what next year's Year 12 has in store.

Mr Roderick Fortuin
Year 12 Advisor

MISA End of Term Results 

A big congratulations to all students who represented us in MISA this term. Collectively, we earnt 101 points for our College, putting us in 5th position overall. This is out of 17 schools in the Macarthur region which is outstanding! I want to extend my thanks to those students who were putting their best foot forward each week and to our dedicated teaching staff who took on the role of coach this term. 

A special mention to the following students who have been named MISA Player of the Term. To receive this award, students must have shown a consistent commitment to the overall success of their respective teams whilst at the same time, giving it their all on the court/field! 

MISA Champions - Girls AFL  

I am so excited  to announce that our Senior Girls AFL team have once again made history by winning their AFL grand final 6 years in a row! This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our talented athletes. 

As we celebrate this victory, I want to take a moment to honour our Year 12 girls, who have been instrumental in leading our team throughout their high school journey. These young women have not only excelled on the field but have also exemplified the spirit of sportsmanship, teamwork, and resilience across multiple sports. Their leadership and camaraderie have set a standard for future players, inspiring them to strive for excellence both in sports and academics.

The journey to the grand finals was filled with challenges, but the team's determination never wavered. Each match brought its own trials, and through teamwork and perseverance, they emerged stronger. The grand final itself was a nail-biting affair, with the girls displaying incredible skill and tenacity, ultimately securing their place as champions once again.

To our Year 12 players: thank you for your unwavering commitment and for representing our school with such pride. You have left a lasting legacy, and we can't wait to see how you carry your passion and leadership into the next chapter of your lives.

MISA Champions - Netball 

The Year 7-8 Netball season proved to be one for the ages as our girls played their hearts out and remained undefeated throughout the season. I had the privilege of watching their semi final game where they were down by 6 points but under the fierce leadership of Miss Tikeri, were able to come back and win by 1 point. What made me so proud was not that they won (although I can't deny that I wasn't thrilled) but the way they came together as a team, persevered through the challenge they faced and remained positive even in tough times. This grit is what sport is all  about!

The girls then went on to win their grand final which again, was a testament to not only their talent but their drive to do well. 

AICES Athletics Carnival 

On a beautiful, sunny Tuesday in Week 8, a talented group of secondary students proudly represented Thomas Hassall at the AICES Athletics Carnival.

Each athlete gave their all, showcasing exceptional skill across running, jumping, and throwing events. Special congratulations go to Luke M, who achieved outstanding results, taking 1st place in both the high jump (1.8m) and long jump (6.4m). Christian M also impressed, securing 2nd place in the long jump (4.78m). Ryder W demonstrated great speed, finishing 3rd in the 100m (13.15s), while Matt M earned 3rd place in shot put with a throw of 11.35m. 

Both the Junior and Senior boys’ relay teams performed well, finishing in strong positions.
Representing Thomas Hassall were:

It was a fantastic day for all involved, with our students demonstrating determination, team spirit, and remarkable athleticism. Congratulations to all who participated!

Mrs Irene Focas
Sports Coordinator - Senior School