Growing Through New Experiences
In Junior School we are committed to providing rich, memorable learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Throughout the course of each year, every student in Years 3 to 6 has the opportunity to participate in a grade camp. This week, Year 4 students have been preparing to attend their overnight camp at Taronga Zoo.
Overnight camps help children develop independence and confidence. Being away from home (even for just one night) encourages students to take responsibility for themselves, make decisions, and navigate new environments. These experiences build resilience and self-esteem in a safe and supportive setting.
Camp life is all about connection. Whether students are sharing a cabin, working together on a challenge, or simply chatting as they complete activities, they’re building friendships and learning to collaborate. These moments foster empathy, cooperation, and a strong sense of community.
The ZooSnooz programme at Taronga Zoo is a unique learning experience. Students receive exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the zoo after hours, participate in guided night tours, and learn directly from expert educators about wildlife conservation, animal behaviour, and environmental sustainability. These hands-on experiences bring science and geography to life in a way that’s engaging, meaningful, and unforgettable.
Being immersed in the natural world—even in the heart of Sydney—helps students develop a deeper appreciation for animals and the environment. Through interactive workshops and close-up animal encounters, students gain a better understanding of the importance of protecting biodiversity and the role they can play in conservation efforts.
For each of the Junior School camps, our teachers work alongside camp providers to thoughtfully design experiences to stretch and challenge students. Our aim is to nudge them gently out of their comfort zones. Whether it’s trying a new activity, speaking up in a group, or sleeping away from home for the first time, these moments of challenge are where real growth happens. Students return with a stronger sense of self, new skills, and a greater belief in what they can achieve. Thank you to our families and staff for supporting these enriching experiences. Together, we are helping our students grow into curious, confident, and compassionate learners, and we look forward to hearing from Year 4 when they return.
Fathers Day Events
Our Fathers’ Day stall was a huge success last week thanks to our incredible P and F volunteers. There was quite the buzz in the Junior School Library with students selecting that perfect gift amongst an impressive range of choices. We also celebrated Father’s Day with the wider College community last Friday morning at the Father’s Day Breakfast. I would like to say a huge thank you to the many staff who helped with the breakfast. Father’s Day is also a good time to reflect on the blessing it is to have a heavenly Father who is the perfect model of love and who strengthens us as we raise the next generation of children.
Uniform Reminder
Finally, a friendly uniform reminder that students will be moving into the summer uniform. Between now and the end of term, your children can come to school dressed in either full summer uniform or full winter uniform on those colder days. The changeover marks the shift to warmer weather as Spring comes in, which I am keen to welcome after a season of wet, cold weather!
God bless,
Mrs Jenny Squire
Deputy Principal – Head of Junior School
Sport
As Term 3 draws to a close, we’re excited to reflect on the incredible sporting achievements of our students. From team triumphs to individual excellence, it’s been a term filled with determination, growth, and celebration. Here’s a look at some of the standout moments:
IPSSO Finals – Best of Luck to Our Teams!
We are thrilled to announce that four of our IPSSO teams have successfully made it through to the IPSSO Finals:
- Senior Netball
- Senior AFL
- Junior Netball
- Junior Newcombe Ball
These teams have shown outstanding commitment and teamwork throughout the season, competing each week against other schools in our region. As they prepare for the finals, we want to acknowledge the effort of every player and coach involved. Your hard work at training, your positive attitude on and off the field.
Our Finals day has been postponed to Wednesday 17th September at Thomas Hassall Anglican College. AFL will be playing at Greenway park.
We wish all teams the very best as they head into the final round – we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way!
CIS Athletics Carnival – A Huge Achievement
Friday 5th September saw a group of our talented athletes compete at the CIS Athletics Carnival, one of the highest levels of school athletics in NSW. We are incredibly proud to share that six students from our school qualified to compete at this elite event – a remarkable achievement in itself! Congratulations to Jazlyn P, Kimberley I, Marcus V, Ethan O, James K and Lucas V for their fantastic effort representing our college and CSSA.
Each of these students demonstrated not only athletic ability but also perseverance and focus in their events. Among them, a special congratulations goes to Lucas, who placed 2nd in Long Jump and has now qualified for the NSWPSSA Championships. This is an exceptional accomplishment, and we look forward to seeing how Lucas performs at the next level. Well done, Lucas!
Hayley is off to Korea!
We are incredibly proud of Hayley P, who recently competed in the Australian Aerobic Gymnastics Championships in the highly competitive International Youth division. Hayley performed exceptionally well, making it through to the finals as one of the top 8 athletes in the country.
In the finals, she delivered a stunning routine and placed 5th overall, earning herself a well-deserved spot on the Australian National Squad.
Even more exciting, Hayley has now been selected to represent Australia in Korea later this year – a remarkable achievement and a huge milestone in her gymnastics journey. Congratulations, Hayley! We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.
Soccer Stars!
Anastasia C (Year 7) and Ishna M (Year 6) recently played in the U12 Division 1 grand final for Western Condors FC in the Southern District Soccer Competition. Their team secured a 3–1 victory against Moorebank, with both students playing outstandingly. Impressively, half the team—including Ishna—played up an age group, making the win even more remarkable. Well done, Anastasia and Ishna—we’re proud of your teamwork, determination and sportsmanship!
Celebrating a Term of Sport
This term has been a shining example of what sport is all about – teamwork, perseverance, joy, and growth. Whether students were competing in finals, representing the school at state level, or simply enjoying lunchtime games with friends, we’ve seen so many moments of courage and collaboration.
Thank you to all our coaches, staff, and families for your ongoing support of our sports program. Your encouragement makes a world of difference to our students.
Let’s finish the term strong and look forward to even more exciting opportunities in Term 4!
God bless,
Mrs Stephanie Wright
Sports Coordinator