Middle School

Term 2 Wrap-Up 

Article by Jodi Fitzgerald- Tate, Head of Middle School

As we reach the end of Term 2, we reflect on an incredibly full and rewarding 11 weeks in Middle School. From commemorations and competitions to excursions and incursion days, our students have had rich opportunities to grow, connect, and celebrate. 

The term began with a respectful and moving ANZAC Day Service, giving students the opportunity to honour the sacrifices of past and present servicepeople. Shortly after, our school observed Reconciliation Week, where students explored the theme of “Now More Than Ever” through activities and reflections aimed at deepening understanding and action in support of reconciliation. A highlight during this time was hosting students from our yapa (sister) school, Shepherdson College, fostering cultural exchange and friendship. 

Our academic and co-curricular programs were buzzing with activity. Year 5 students were treated to the hands-on and high-energy Mad Science Incursion, whilst our Year 6 cohort engaged in a valuable session with the Proactive Policing Unit, building awareness around safety, decision-making, and leadership. 

Our Year 8 students experienced a significant academic milestone by completing their first set of exams, developing important study skills and self-discipline. Across all year levels, mathematics came to life through the Middle School Times Table Tournament – Battle of the Home Groups, where healthy competition fuelled enthusiasm and learning. 

Celebrations of culture, creativity and voice were another highlight of the term. During Languages Week, students took part in diverse activities, and our Mandarin learners proudly received Chinese Reading Awards. 

Our annual House Public Speaking competition showcased the confidence and talent of our students, while the ACS Chess and Athletics events saw our representatives perform with pride and competitive spirit. 

Our community values continued to shine through in weekly Lunch Clubs, student-led wellbeing initiatives like the Kindness Collective, and the ongoing engagement with families through events such as the Elephant Ed Parent Webinar, Parent, Teacher Student Interviews and the much-loved Mother’s Day Stall. 

We were honoured to be nominated for a ResourceSmart Awards, recognising our school’s commitment to environmental sustainability. In the spirit of inclusion, our students and staff proudly acknowledged IDAHOBIT Day, reinforcing the importance of respect and diversity in our community. 

We also enjoyed special celebrations, such as Founders’ Day, marking our school’s birthday with gratitude and pride.  

We concluded the term on a high with Me You Us Day, a powerful reminder of the values that unite us and the importance of belonging. 

As students head into a well-deserved break, we thank families for their continued support. Please note that the first student day of Term 3 is Tuesday, 29 July. 

We wish all families a warm, safe and restful holiday. 

Middle School Times Tables Tournament 

After weeks of fierce competition, challenges, and lunchtime showdowns, we’re excited to announce the overall winners of the Term 2 Middle School Times Tables Tournament… Congratulations to 6A! 

The Times Tables Tournament was a new Middle School initiative designed to boost number fluency and have fun doing it. Every week, students participated in a series of engaging activities, from online quizzes and games to knockout battles and challenges. Points were earned through weekly Home Group activities and Friday lunchtime battles, with every student encouraged to take part. 

The result? Improved confidence with times tables across the Middle School and a fantastic sense of teamwork and energy from all Home Groups! 

While 6A may have taken the crown this time, the real win was the effort and improvement shown by all. Times tables are the foundation of Maths success, and we’ll continue to encourage practice through future challenges and classroom routines. 

We encourage all families to support regular times tables practice at home, as it plays a key role in helping children become confident and capable Maths learners. 

Cultural Incursion: Face-Changing & Noodle Dancing 

Article by Zoe Zhao, Middle School Mandarin Teacher 

As part of our Languages and Cultures Week celebration, students enjoyed a vibrant lunchtime performance featuring the traditional Chinese opera of face-changing and the captivating skill of noodle dancing. With swirling movements and lightning-fast mask changes, the performers brought Sichuan opera to life, sparking curiosity and excitement. The noodle dancer amazed students with strength and rhythm, stretching dough into long strands through dance.  

After the performance, students eagerly asked questions about the history behind these art forms and the years of training involved, showing great curiosity about what it takes to deliver such a successful performance.  

This interactive showcase offered our students a dynamic window into Chinese traditional arts - lending history, entertainment, and learning in one memorable language and cultural immersion experience at Overnewton.