Term 2 | The Way Newsletter | Friday 29 May 2026

Latest UpdatesBack to Top

From the Principal
Principal

This week has been dominated by the annual College photos. And like the students, I too feel the pressure to look my best as we capture a moment in the year that will serve as a reminder for years to come. It also makes me reflect on the importance of relationships. Our friends, colleagues and siblings in particular. Watching older students hold the hands of their younger brothers and sisters as they queue for their family shot is beautiful. Equally, seeing families disembark from the College buses in the morning is just as poignant. Older brothers and sisters, older students assisting younger ones as they climb down what can appear to be very big steps reflects the thoughtfulness and care that I hope you will see reflected in the photos when they are available.

Relationships are at the heart of what we do. Students do not learn well without feeling valued and known. A highlight for me over the last fortnight has been learning from a boy in Year 1. He has been visiting my office on a Thursday to help me with my football tips. Each time he has brought a different group of friends and they come and share so much more than their thoughts about who will win on the weekend. They give me a glimpse into the wonderful learning that is taking place, their excitement about the word of the week or finding their way from one side of the College to another. They tell me what they want to be when they grow up and they are obviously gaining confidence in reading and communication skills. It is a joy but more than that, it captures a moment in their lives as they learn.

 

Visit

 

You may have seen that four of our older students were interviewed for an article in the Sydney Morning Herald this week too. The reporter was keen to unpack the length of HSC exams and wanted their thoughts on whether three-hour exams were still relevant. It was an opportunity for them to apply their learning to a real-world context. Interestingly the students reflected that longer exams provided the opportunity to showcase their learning. We did talk about the importance of understanding that we are all different though and for some, their length is more challenging. No conclusions were reached but the experience was captured in a wonderful photo that represented a moment in the life of these students.

I do trust that you will appreciate the learning and growth of all our students in this edition of the newsletter.

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.
- Ecclesiastes 3:1

Mrs Karen Easton
Principal
From the Deputy Principal
Chris Wyatt

National Reconciliation Week and Respect

This week is National Reconciliation Week. Held annually from 27 May to 3 June, National Reconciliation Week is a dedicated time for all Australians to learn about and celebrate the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia and foster reconciliation discussion and activities.

At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous people, for the benefit of all Australians, regardless of cultural background.

Today at Junior School Muster and Senior School Assembly, I took the opportunity to read a picture book written by an Aboriginal author. The book brought to light some of the challenges and injustice associated with Australia’s shared history and highlighted the opportunity for all Australians to work together towards a future where reconciliation is a lived reality for all.

jnr

Essentially, reconciliation is about looking back to understand, be informed and appreciate, so that we can look forward together with respect for others, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

In speaking with the students, I reflected on the fact that reconciliation is a Biblical idea. The Bible tells us that God reconciled us to himself or made it possible for things to be made right between us through Jesus’ death on the cross. The Bible also encourages us to seek reconciliation where it is needed.

This year, the theme of Reconciliation Week is two very powerful words: "All In". Reconciliation is not a spectator sport. This means that we can’t just sit on the sidelines and watch others do the right thing – we all have to step onto the field and join the team. This connects perfectly to one of our Positive Learning Behaviours: Respect.

Being "All In" means our respect has to be active. Respect isn't just sitting quietly; it’s about making sure everyone is included, listening to people's stories, and making sure nobody is left sitting on the sidelines alone.

Reconciliation isn’t about guilt. What has happened in the past has happened. Our role is not to look back but to look forward, to get off the sidelines and to respect everyone regardless of their cultural background.

As I reflected with the students about culture and respecting others, it is worth considering the ripple effect our actions and words can have. When we choose to be "All In" with our respect, our kind actions ripple outward. It starts with each student and a friend, but it spreads to the whole classroom, and then the whole College.

To help us to be ‘All In’ on reconciliation, it is helpful to talk more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, to learn about their culture, their knowledge, their ways of being. This helps us to appreciate and celebrate their culture. This will be something that the students will have the opportunity to do as we head towards Unite Week at the end of this term where we celebrate our cultures as well as the oldest living culture in the world, that of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Mr Chris Wyatt
Deputy Principal
From the Chaplain
Denis Oliver

Have you heard the phrase in loco parentis? It’s a Latin term used for teachers, meaning “in the place of a parent.” In Spanish, though, it almost sounds like “parents are crazy!” I remember when I first learned that phrase - it has stayed with me ever since.

I work hard at being a father, but I often feel like I get it wrong. Sometimes I’m too hard, sometimes too soft, and sometimes I say the right thing at exactly the wrong time. I love my children deeply, but parenting can often feel like an uphill battle.

When my son was a teenager, he started attending the church down the road after they appointed a new youth leader. He absolutely loved him and thought he was the best. I remember him coming home one day, excitedly telling me what he had learned. He spoke about how wise Eliseo, his youth leader, was and shared everything he had said.

I found myself feeling frustrated. I had been saying many of those same things for years, and they seemed to fall on deaf ears! As a father, I couldn’t help but wonder: Why is he listening to him and not me, especially when he doesn’t even have kids?

I didn’t take it out on my son, but I did vent to my wife. She gently reminded me, “Isn’t it wonderful that there are other godly people speaking into our son’s life?”

Grumbling a little, I had to admit she was right. Parenting is a partnership, even with people who are not parents themselves.

You also know we did everything for you that parents would do for their own children. We begged, encouraged, and urged each of you to live in a way that would honour God. He is the one who chose you to share in his own kingdom and glory. 
- 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12

The apostle Paul “parented” adults as he taught the faith. Not in a condescending way, but with genuine, familial concern. He longed for the people in his care to become those who honour God with their lives.

I’m really looking forward to the remaining Parent Teacher Night. I can’t wait to meet the parents of the students I teach, and to share both the wins and the challenges together as a team.

What a gift it is that our students are surrounded by adults, both at home and at school, who are working together, with that same hope: that they would grow into people who honour God with their lives.

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.

 

TEACHER

ⓘ

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

I joined Thomas Hassall in September 2025 as a teacher in the HSIE (Human Society and its Environment) department.

♡

What do you love about teaching at Thomas Hassall?

When teaching a new concept to students and you see the “penny drop” as they understand what you are explaining and their eyes light up and it makes them smile the biggest smile.

!

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

Although I am quite loud and jovial, I’m actually a softie at heart and my feelings can get hurt easily.

↗

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

Cooking food in a food truck on the beach.

✝

Do you have a favourite Bible verse?

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

✦

Share a learning moment that has brought you joy recently.

After months of the battle of wills, and many conversations, won over and connected with a few students in a particular class which changed the entire dynamic of the class and allowed for a positive learning environment.

 
ⓘ

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

I am a Year 5 teacher here at Thomas Hassall. I’m a relatively new teacher to the College, and have been here since Term 4, 2025.

♡

What do you love about teaching at Thomas Hassall?

The thing I love about teaching, is the opportunity to invest in student lives’, help them learn and grow and teach them about how much God truly loves them. The community here at Thomas Hassall is really beautiful and I am so grateful to be a part of it! 

!

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

You might be surprised to know that I am quite creative! I enjoy doing anything crafty or artistic and I can draw & paint realistic pictures.

↗

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

I would either be a social worker or do something church related! I love building relationships with people, leading them to Jesus and helping them reach their goals!

✝

Do you have a favourite Bible verse?

Yes! It would have to be Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you declares the LORD, plans to prosper you & not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope & a future’. This is my favourite Bible verse because it reminds me that God is in control & he has my future in his hands.

✦

Share a learning moment that has brought you joy recently.

Last week a student in my class was struggling with a math concept. After a few attempts to support the student in their understanding, they finally got it and yelled out loudly ‘I GET IT’! I absolutely love those ‘light bulb’ moments and it is such a privilege to witness them! 

.

 

glen

ⓘ

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

 My role at Thomas Hassall is Grounds/Maintenance. I have been in this role now for approximately six months.

♡

What do you love about working at Thomas Hassall?

I enjoy working at Thomas Hassall for several reasons. I like the friendly Christian environment, everyone is very helpful and there is a wonderful sense of belonging. The bonus of seeing my grandchildren every day is great.

!

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

During my High School years I played several sports at State and Australian level including Australian School boys cricket and representing the state in athletics.

↗

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

If I wasn't working, I would be enjoying playing with my three grandchildren, playing golf and fishing.

✝

Do you have a favourite Bible verse?

I don't have a favourite verse, I enjoy all chapters of the Bible.

✦

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

Working with the staff at the recent Musical. Everybody came together making it a wonderful experience, I was proud to be part of it and found it very rewarding.

PARKING AND ROAD SAFETY AROUND THE COLLEGE

The safety of our students and all members of the community is a priority for the College. We ask parents and carers to take care when driving or parking in the streets surrounding the College, particularly during busy arrival and departure times.

The new pedestrian crossing on Flynn Avenue is an important safety measure for students and families accessing the College. The No Stopping zones near the crossing must be kept clear at all times. Vehicles stopped or parked in these areas reduce visibility for students crossing the road and for drivers approaching the crossing.

Please do not stop or park in front of or near any crossing, even briefly when dropping off or collecting students. Keeping this area clear is essential to ensure students and other pedestrians can be seen and cross safely.

The College has also received concerns from local residents regarding vehicles obstructing driveways and parking in surrounding streets in ways that create safety issues. We ask families to respect the access needs of our neighbours and only park in permitted areas.

Parking on footpaths or nature strips can limit pedestrian access and reduce visibility for drivers. Rule 197 of the Road Rules 2014 does not allow parking on a bicycle path, footpath, dividing strip or nature strip. Vehicles should be parked kerbside on the street in a permitted parking area only.

As a result of concerns raised regarding parking around the College, we understand that Liverpool City Council rangers will be patrolling the surrounding streets and may issue fines for parking offences. Please refer to the image below from Liverpool City Council showing examples of legal and illegal parking, along with other school zone offences.

Thank you for helping us keep the roads surrounding the College safe for everyone.

PARKING

 
Parent Cafe

Cafe MRK is open to parents every Friday morning for breakfast with your children before College!

It's also a great way for you to meet other parents, particularly after the bell.

It opens at 7.30am until 10.00am Friday at MRK (Canteen).

We look forward to seeing you there.
Student Early Pick-up

We understand that there may occasionally be unavoidable circumstances where your child’s normal dismissal arrangements need to change during the day. As a reminder, all changes to dismissal arrangements should be emailed to [email protected] or phoned through to the College on the day by 1:45pm to ensure your child receives the message prior to dismissal.

If it is necessary to collect your child early, please inform the College office in advance so notes can be delivered to your child, particularly if students are leaving during break times.

Depending on class activities and the volume of notes being distributed at the time, it may take up to 30 minutes for notes to reach students. Providing advance notice helps ensure your child is organised and ready with their belongings to leave promptly.

Thank you for your cooperation and support in helping minimise disruptions to student learning.
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 - 31 July to 4 August 2026. 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 simply fit in with your family routines and share your meals.
  • - They need their own bed but can share a room, they will need to be in pairs or in threes.

Families are paid $60 per night 

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

EventsBack to Top

Colours for Compassion Mufti

As the FIFA World Cup approaches, students are invited to take part in Colours for Compassion by dressing in the colours of a team or nation they support.

While we celebrate the different nations represented in the World Cup, we also remember children and families around the world who are experiencing hardship. As a College, we support a child through Compassion, and this mufti day is an opportunity for students to contribute to that ongoing support.

COLOURS FOR COMPASSION MUFTI DAY

Prep - Year 12
Friday 12 June
Gold coin donation

WHAT TO WEAR

Students participating in mufti may wear a full outfit in the colours of a World Cup nation, a sporting team they support or a team they play for. This may include a jersey, supporter scarf or beanie. Jerseys do not need to be soccer jerseys.

Students who are not participating in mufti should attend in full College Winter uniform.

MUFTI GUIDELINES

  • Outfits must be modest and appropriate, in keeping with the ethos of the College.
  • Clothing with inappropriate slogans, images or messaging is not permitted.
  • Students are asked to avoid wearing tights or leggings. Where worn, they must be paired with a longer top, jersey, jumper or jacket.
  • Enclosed footwear is required. Thongs and sandals are not permitted.
UNITE Week

Week 10 is our annual College Unite Week. It is a wonderful celebration of our cultural diversity. 

On Friday 26 June, students 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.

WellbeingBack to Top

Understanding Anxiety and Depression Webinar

Join SchoolTV for this exclusive free webinar featuring international experts Dr Emma Woodward and Dr Joe Stammeijer, as they share valuable insights into recognising early signs of concern and practical approaches to supporting the wellbeing of young people. 

WEBINAR: Understanding Anxiety and Depression to Foster Resilience (Part 2)
DATE: Wednesday 10 June 2026
TIME: 7:30 pm

speakers

This webinar is part 2 of a series and will go for 45 minutes. 

In this session, topics include: 

  • - Staying Calm and Connected
  • - Building Daily Routines
  • - Meeting the Needs of Neurodivergent Learners

 

LearningBack to Top

Poetry Comes to Life for Year 9

Year 9 have been studying how poetry sustains and challenges views on war, reflecting contextual influences and the impact of the industrial revolution.

Last Thursday, Year 9 had the privilege of watching a poetry performance by the professional group, Poetry in Action. Below, Year 9 student Rose C and Adeline C share their reflection on this dynamic and inspiring experience:

poetry

Through the ‘Poetry in Action’ workshop, we were able to question our perspectives on war in poetry. The expressive professional acting of the narrative in Dulce Et Decorum Est gave us an opportunity to thoroughly imagine war poet, Wilfred Owen’s experiences of WWI.

The brutality and tragedy of war was expressed through the actors’ captivating performance. In capturing emotions of desperation and fear, as the audience, we were effectively able to sympathise with the poet and his fellow soldiers in the tragic moments of war. Likewise, the blending of both comedic and dramatic elements in the workshop kept everyone highly engaged with the costumes bringing the poems to life, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the experience.

Different views were explored, allowing us to question our knowledge on the purpose of war, an honourable act for your country or its depiction as a harsh, brutal reality.

Overall, the ‘Poetry in Action’ workshop was extremely entertaining and allowed all of us to gain a better understanding on the shifting perspectives of war, and how they have been expressed in poetry. 

- Rose C & Adeline C
Year 9 Student

 

Performing ArtsBack to Top

Tutor Spotlight

Outstanding Harmony: Congratulations to Our Piano Students!

We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate the exceptional achievements of our talented pianists in their recent Piano for Leisure examinations. Securing top-tier marks across the board, these students have demonstrated incredible dedication, artistry, and perseverance.

Please join us in congratulating:

Eva S Grade 3: A+ (High Distinction)
Ryan T Grade 1: A+ (High Distinction)
Emilia N Grade 2: A (Distinction)
Yuuki T Grade 2: A (Distinction)
Benjamin L Preliminary Grade: B+ (Credit)

 

Of course, behind every great performance is countless hours of practice, guidance, patience, and encouragement.

Well done to our students and their tutor, Zoran C for setting such a beautiful note for the term ahead!

If your child is interested in the Instrumental Tuition Program, please visit the College website for more information or email [email protected], or complete the tuition form below.

Mr Luke Robinson
Director of Co-curricular

Senior School Sports Update

7 - 9 CASA Volleyball 

Volleyball

The CASA 7 - 9 Volleyball Gala Day was a fantastic success, with both our boys’ and girls’ teams putting in outstanding performances. The boys’ team dominated the competition by not dropping a single set all day and taking out the grand final in 2 sets! Their skill and determination were exceptional throughout the tournament.  

Our girls’ team also performed brilliantly, securing 3rd place after a series of hard-fought matches. They showed great resilience and sportsmanship across the day. Congratulations to all players for representing the College so proudly and for their excellent efforts on and off the court.

Upcoming Sporting Dates
Week 7 Tuesday 2 June AICES Cross Country
PUSH UP Challenge
Week 9 Tuesday 17 June MISA Grand Finals
Wednesday 18 June  10-12 CASA Volleyball Gala
Week 10 Tuesday 23 June Tryouts for MISA Term Three

Mrs Irene Focas
Senior School Sports Co-ordinator

Co-curricularBack to Top

Year 11 MISA Public Speaking

On Thursday 14 May, David A and Seraphina T both competed in the Year 11 MISA Public speaking competition, having prepared a 6 minute speech, whilst also having readied themselves for an intimidating impromptu 1-2 minute response to an unseen question.

 

misa

 

David spoke on audio-visual production teams and how “They don't write the music. They don't sing the song. But they decide how it lands.” Seraphina leant into the controversial claim that “charisma almost always wins over skill”. For their impromptu presentation, both were given the prompt of “I would have, I could have, I didn’t”, having to immediately respond to this statement in an insightful and engaging manner. Both did amazingly well, with David being able to secure 1st place in the event, a fantastic achievement which we are very proud of.

Opportunities for Year 9 and 10 students are coming up next term, with tryouts and practices starting shortly. We look forward to seeing whether we can continue with this momentum in future events.

Mr Connor Deer
Senior School Teacher – HSIE
Bronze Duke of Edinburgh

On Friday 15 and Saturday 16 May, 70 of our Year 9 Bronze Duke of Ed students completed their first adventurous journey. Half of the cohort set out from Waterfall, following the Bullawarring Track alongside Heathcote Creek. Kingfisher Pool was a standout moment, and students kept an eye out for the resident koalas as they continued toward their lunch stop at Battery Causeway.

The other half of the cohort began at Audley and hiked to Heathcote via the Engadine Track, with the waterhole on Kangaroo Creek proving to be a highlight of the day.

duke

All groups arrived at Heathcote Scout Camp with time to rest and then learn the essentials of setting up tents. Students debriefed their day, reflected on their experiences, and then turned their attention to cooking dinner. The campfire and toasted marshmallows were a hit.

The next morning, groups swapped tracks to complete their hike. Having fewer groups along the same tracks helped with timing and flexibility. It was encouraging to hear students singing, chatting, and supporting one another along the way. They handled this introductory journey well, gaining a taste of the adventures still to come.

A big thank you to the teachers who volunteer their time to make these special experiences possible. Well done to all the students who stepped outside their comfort zone and embraced the challenge of the hike. 

Mr Dave Catto
Duke of Edinburgh Leader

CommunityBack to Top

Prayers & Praises

As one of the College Chaplains, my heart is that our team can support our students, staff and families wherever we are able.

At the moment, Peter and I serve our staff by being available to listen, pray and encourage them as they care for the young people in their classrooms. Students also know they can come to us if they would like someone to pray with them, offer a listening ear, talk through a concern or seek biblical wisdom for a tricky situation.

Recently, I have been thinking more about how our team can serve our College families as well.

That is where Prayers & Praises comes in.

You may have something weighing on your heart that you would like someone to pray about. You may have concerns you cannot quite put into words, but would appreciate someone praying on your behalf. You may simply need someone to talk to - someone who can help you think clearly, process an issue or offer a biblical perspective.

We would also love to hear the things you are thankful for. It may be an answered prayer, a moment of encouragement, a blessing in your family or something good you have seen in the life of the College. Praising God for His goodness is an important part of prayer and we would love to give thanks with you.

Please feel free to email us with any prayer requests, praises or concerns. It would be our privilege to pray for you and to walk alongside you in whatever season you are facing.

[email protected]

We are here, so please make use of us whenever you need.

Rev. Denis Oliver
College Chaplain
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!