Engaging our community
Championing student voice and agency
We would like to recognise the following students for their outstanding participation in the final workshop of the Writing Democracy Challenge at the NSW Parliament House on Wednesday, 20 November 2024:
- Tianna Zarib, Year 7
- Daniella Antwan, Year 7
- Isabella Cardarello, Year 8
- Mia Cardarello, Year 8
- Elise Carroll, Year 8
- Brooklyn Touche, Year 8
- Imeelya Jameel, Year 9
- Rianna Georgis, Year 9
- Elaine Krishna, Year 9
- Risath Gunarathna, Year 10
- Kareem Abualfoul, Year 10
Throughout the day, our students had the unique opportunity to engage with peers from across New South Wales, forging new friendships and expanding their networks. They were inspired by addresses from The Honourable Prue Car MP, Minister for Education and Early Learning, and two-time Paralympic gold medallist Liesl Tesch. Both speakers passionately emphasised the importance of using writing as a tool to amplify voices and effect change.
Our students also had the chance to write letters to key figures such as NSW Secretary of Education Murat Dizdar PSM and Mayor of Liverpool Ned Mannoun, addressing topics close to their hearts, including road safety, inflation, and student advocacy.
As an added bonus, the students attended a live parliamentary session, where they witnessed The Honourable Jihad Dib MP and The Honourable Charisma Kaliyanda MP in action.
This experience was invaluable for all involved, offering insight into the democratic process and the power of civic engagement.
We extend our gratitude to UNSW and The Story Factory for providing our students with this exceptional opportunity.
A day to remember
On behalf of Mr Chatwin and the History Faculty, I would like to extend our thanks to Mr Banks, Ms Doan, Ms Khoshaba, and Mr Leng for their outstanding organisation of our final faculty excursion for the year. Thanks to their hard work, Year 9 students had the remarkable opportunity to visit the Anzac Memorial at Hyde Park, where they were able to explore the deep symbolism behind every aspect of the memorial.
The students were moved by a powerful monologue that vividly dramatised the experiences of soldiers who served in the Australian Light Horse Regiment, with a particular focus on those who fought in the Battle of Beersheba. The performance brought to life the bravery and sacrifice of these soldiers in a way that will stay with our students for many years to come.
After reflecting on the memorial's significance, the students had the chance to enjoy each other’s company while taking in the stunning urban sights that Sydney has to offer. It was a truly special day, one that not only enriched their understanding of our history but also allowed them to bond and create lasting memories.
Our sincere thanks go to everyone involved in making this excursion such a meaningful and unforgettable experience for our students.
Fostering carer and parent voice
First and foremost, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated parents and carers for their incredible participation in the 2024 edition of our Tell Them From Me Parent Survey. Thanks to your support, we achieved our highest ever number of respondents, a truly remarkable achievement that speaks to the strong bond we share as a school community.
Your invaluable feedback has provided us with meaningful insights that will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our school, guiding our school planning and decision-making for the years ahead.
We are also delighted to congratulate Mrs. Nadine Mattielo and Mrs. Shama Hussain, the lucky winners of our $50 vouchers. We truly appreciate your involvement, and I will be in contact with you shortly for further details.
Once again, thank you to each and every one of you. Your voices are essential in helping us grow, and we are grateful for your continued commitment to the success of our school and our students.
Upcoming Parent/Carer Information Sessions
We are pleased to invite you to our upcoming information sessions, where we will guide you through the important process of your child’s transition from Year 6 to Year 7 in 2025. These sessions have been designed to provide you with the support and information you need to help your child thrive as they move into secondary school.
Parent/Carer Information Session (Inclusive & Special Education Unit - In Person)
Date: Monday 2 December 2024
Topic: Year 6 to Year 7 2025 Transition
Time: 3:30pm – 4:30pm
This in-person session will focus on the Year 6 to Year 7 transition for students in the Inclusive & Special Education Unit. It will be an opportunity to engage directly with our staff, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into the transition process.
Parent/Carer Information Session (Mainstream - Online - Zoom)
Date: Monday 9 December 2024
Topic: Year 6 to Year 7 2025 Transition
Time: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
This session will cover the same topic but for students in the mainstream setting. It offers flexibility for parents and carers to stay informed and involved in their child’s transition from primary school to high school.
We look forward to seeing you at one of these sessions and working together to ensure a smooth and successful start to your child’s secondary school journey. Your participation is invaluable, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
As always, the Zoom links for all online parent and carer meetings will be sent via text message and email closer to the date.
Upcoming events
Please find attached a summary of key events taking place over the next four weeks and early next term.
Mr Floresca
Head Teacher Engagement