14 March 2016 - Thomas Hassall Anglican College

Term 1 I 14 March 2016
Awards
From the Principal
Were you able to attend the Great Aussie Bush Dance last Friday evening?
What a superb family night for all in attendance. Over 270 people were
able to enjoy a great band, lovely food prepared and served by our Year 11
Hospitality students under the direction of Mrs Benham, and the bush
dancing was such fun. Thank you on behalf of the College to Mrs
Hutchens and the team of Class Parents and staff who organised the night.
Congratulations. We are certainly looking forward to another spectacular
evening in 2017. Pictures later in this edition and also more on the
website.
Expectations are high for our College Musical in April - “The Wizard of Oz.” Many students from
both Junior and Senior School are involved. Be sure to mark the dates in your diary which will
be in Week 1 and 2 of Term 2 and invite your friends, neighbours and family. Bookings are
available from next Monday.
It will be lovely to enjoy the musical, and all other events in the John Lambert Auditorium, from
the beginning of Term 2, in air-conditioned comfort. The P&F donation back to College from
2015 fundraising and some additional funds from the College will enable this long-awaited
project to be completed, using the latest technology to achieve the best results for our College.
I can hear many families saying – phew, at last!
Term 1 Senior School Parent Teacher interviews are being held across the next few weeks so
please take the opportunity to book a time to discuss your child’s progress with teachers.
Could I draw your attention to the note on student leave that has been included in this edition of
the newsletter. While we appreciate the need for families to visit relatives across the globe,
which we see as very relevant, there are costs to student learning particularly in the older
years. Thank you for your consideration.
The representative Swimming Carnival season moves to the highest levels in the next week.
NASSA is the group of Anglican Schools our swimmers represent. Mrs Evans (Junior) and
Miss Mugridge (Senior) will be providing details. It will be great to be cheering the teams on at
the Sydney Olympic Aquatic Centre at Homebush and we wish them well. It is very pleasing to
be able to commend students who train and practice most days to reach their best times.
Thank you also to our two past students Dale Edginton and Danielle French who coach many
of our representatives each week.
Ross Whelan
“The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The Lord protects the
unwary; when I was brought low, he saved me.” Psalm 116:5-6
CARMICHAEL
Dominic Petrovski
Stefan Ruhs
Antonio Daniele
Abigail Bakhit
Hunter Samuel
Jaiden Cordina
Arianah Cordina
Mikayla Cordina
Gabriella Sabongi
Sebastian Bryant
Jake Lam
Marcelo Veliz
Syed Haq
Carla Beltran
Christian Algeri
Sergio Warda
James Lindsay
Carlos Loureiro
LEWIS
Stephanie Gao
Lydia Quartiero
Emily Vaga
Hunter Samuel
Isaac Delicata
Luke Sullivan
Lachlan Johnson Stella Sayasith
Samuel Johnson
Michael Ofloglou
Sebastian Saliba
George Koutsaliaris
LIDDELL
Della Khan
Dean Sobbi
Crystal Gilani
Rohan Prasad
Ethan Ould
Amber Gilani
Dante Mamone
Nora Mariud
Emmeline McAnally
Stephanie Inzitari
Gabriella Trajkoski
WILBERFORCE
Adrian Mulluso
Andrew Adam
Rocco Furfaro
Zachary Moore
Reyhana Ali
Anthony Aouad
Benjamin Camilleri
Nicholas Le Franc
Mia Fernandopulle
TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More
In the coming weeks we will be providing an opportunity for parents to meet
teachers in order to touch base and catch up with the progress of their child. I
would encourage parents to bring their child to the interview to be part of the
discussion. Although there is no official report, teachers will be able to give some
feedback on assessments and classwork that has been completed. Parents will
also be able to communicate any areas of concern or positive feedback they may
have. This is an important partnership and allows for a flow of information that will
assist teachers, students and parents to partner together.
Last week Year 11 went on camp. The
camp’s theme, ‘Stronger Together’ was
designed to assist the students on their
journey towards the HSC. There was a
strong focus on study skills and leadership.
Most students I have spoken with took
something away from the camp that will
directly assist them in their preparation and
practice as they move towards the HSC.
We will continue to reinforce the principles outlined during the camp. TEAM was
central to the message of the camp. One of the issues we have in moving
effectively as a community is the tendency towards an individual or self-centred
view of the world. If we commit to travel together as a team, appreciating and
celebrating the individual differences that we each have, then TEAM can be a
very rewarding and uplifting experience.
During the camp a small group of representative swimmers took some time out to
represent the College at the NASSA Swimming Carnival. The level of competition
from the selection of Anglican schools from across Sydney is strong with some
state and national times being achieved. Our students held their own throughout
the night and although we weren’t the stand out school we did grow in our sense
of TEAM. I would like to thank all the parents, the contributing students and
especially the staff and Sport Captains, Lefteri Mihalatos and Stephanie Taylor.
As a result from the night we have 19 students going through to the next level of
competition at AICES. This is a very positive outcome and one which reflects a
commitment to TEAM.
I have enjoyed my time out of the office assisting with the Year 7 Sport Program
which is introducing students to AFL this term. The program is a basic skills
program but helps introduce the students to the flow and pace of the game.
Although the College has employed outside coaches I personally use the time to
get to know the Year 7 boys and establish a rapport with them. One of the
important themes I am wanting to build is a sense of being connected to a TEAM.
Despite the recent hot conditions the boys have responded well and are starting
to connect together. This simple theme of TEAM needs to connect right across
the College community.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 reads, "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend
themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
Mr Roger Young
Term 1
Diary Dates
Week 8
Tuesday 15 March
Year 7 Immunisations
Wednesday 16 March
Year 11 Biology Excursion
Year 11 & 12 Visual Art Excursion
Thursday 17 March
Year 10 PDM Excursion
Friday 18 March
College Open Day
Week 9
Monday 21 March
Senior Cross Country
Wednesday 23 March
Making Bullying History Seminar
Years 8 & 10 Parent Teacher Night
Friday 25 March
Good Friday
I would like to congratulate Mrs Hutchens and the Class Parent team for an
amazing Bush Dance on Friday night. As you can see by the photos everyone had
a wonderful night with great entertainment, food and company. It really was a
happy, fun night filled with joy!
Attendance at College affects outcomes
All parents understand that attendance at College every day is their legal
responsibility that is governed by State and Federal Government legislation. This
means that students must be at College every day unless they are sick. This is so
essential to their learning as the way the curriculum is presented means that
students miss vital learning even if they are away for a short time. We don’t just
teach from a textbook where the pages can be caught up learning is interactive,
collaborative and responsive to the children’s input.
It also sends the message to the child that education matters to you and to their
future. If you don’t prioritise t their attendance then you cannot expect your child to
value learning and to be motivated to study and do their best. This impact becomes
greater as the child progresses through the College.
Many parents ask me when is a good time to take extended leave during term. I
would like to say every leave affects your child in some way, in Kindergarten they
may miss important sounds and maths concepts, these become more complex as
the years go on. We understand the importance and benefits of going to visit
relatives and seeing more of the world but I want to encourage you to only do this
once in the Primary years, once in Years 7 – 9 and not at all in Years 10, 11
and 12. If you do decide to go, link it up with a vacation break so you are
taking as little term time as possible.
Even short term family holidays, such as a cruise, have an impact and send a
message to your child. Some parents are choosing this option for a family holiday
and I need you to be aware that your child will miss important concepts. The way
we teach makes it impossible for work to be provided so you need to take that into
account when making that decision.
Year 5 & 6 are off to Camp this Wednesday. These are always a great time for the
students. Year 5 will be testing their skills in the great outdoors as well as learning
to work together as a team, whilst Year 6 is off to Canberra where they will learn
about how the Federal Government works as well as visiting some of the
attractions of Canberra. We wish them all a great time away together.
Mrs Christine Bessant
Term 1
Diary Dates
Week 8
Wednesday 16 March
Year 5 & 6 Camps
Thursday 17 March
Year 5 & 6 Camps
Junior HICES Debating Comp
Friday 18 March
Years 5 & 6 Camps
College Open Day
Week 9
Tuesday 22 March
NSW CIS Primary Swimming
Making Bullying History Seminar
Wednesday 23 March
Easter Hat Parade & “Eggsibition”
Thursday 24 March
Easter Assemblies
Friday 25 March
Good Friday
Important College Dates
Term 1
Monday
14 March 2016
Years 9 & 11 Parent Teacher Interviews
Tuesday
15 March 2016
Year 7 Vaccinations
Wed - Friday
16 - 18 March 2016
Year 5 Camp
Wed - Friday
16 - 18 March 2016
Year 6 Camp to Canberra
Friday
18 March 2016
College Open Day
Monday
21 March 2016
Senior School Cross Country
Wednesday
23 March 2016
Years 8 & 10 Parent Teacher Interviews
Friday
25 March 2016
Good Friday Public Holiday
Monday
28 March 2016
Easter Monday and Public Holiday
Thursday
31 March 2016
K-6 Parent Teacher Interviews
Friday
1 April 2016
Junior School Cross Country
Tuesday
5 April 2016
Prep, Years 2-6 Parent Teacher Interviews
Friday
8 April 2016
Term 1 Concludes
Term 2
Monday
25 April 2016
ANZAC Day
Wednesday
27 April 2016
Term 2 Commences
Thur - Saturday
28 - 30 April 2016
College Musical ‘Wizard of Oz’
Thur - Saturday
5 - 7 May 2016
College Musical ‘Wizard of Oz’
Thurs - Fri
5 - 6 May 2016
Mother’s Day Stall
Friday
6 May 2016
Senior School Athletics Carnival
Tue –Fri
10-13 May 2016
NAPLAN Testing
Thursday
19 May 2016
Year 12 Parent Teacher Night
Friday
27 May 2016
Year 7 Taster Day
Wed - Friday
8 - 10 June 2016
Year 9 Camp
Tuesday
7 June 2016
Year 7 Vaccinations
Friday
10 June 2016
Junior School Athletics Carnival
Monday
13 June 2016
Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday
Wednesday
22 June 2016
Year 11 Parent Teacher Night
Friday
24 June 2016
Term 2 Concludes
Class Parent News – Kindergarten fill the coffee shop!
Last Friday, Kindergarten held a gathering at a local café. We were thrilled that over 20 mums (and quite a few future
students! Ha!) enjoyed the great coffee and a relaxed atmosphere at Pie & Co in Austral. I hear that a fun end-of-term
dinner is also being planned so keep your eye on this newsletter for further information shortly. Thank you to Amanda
Vella and Amanda Moriana for organising this function and to Pie & Co for fitting us all in!
Open Day – 18 March 2016
Open Day is an opportunity for prospective parents to visit the College during a normal school day and consider if we are
the ’right fit’ for their children. We are expecting a large number of visiting families to hear an address by the Principal,
view the campus with student tour guides and have the opportunity to speak with staff about programs and enrolment
procedures.
We hope you will commend this day to any families or friends you may know who are interested in the College.
On-line registration is essential.
International Women’s Day Breakfast
On Tuesday 8 March I had the privilege of representing the College at the
Quota International Women’s Day Breakfast. Quota International was formed in
Washington USA in 1919 and has members all around the world with the
purpose of empowering women, children, the deaf, hard of hearing and speech
impaired - either physically or through fund raising activities. Quota
International of Liverpool Inc have been long-time donors of two encouragement
awards presented to our students at Celebration each year.
This event was the 9th International Women’s Day Breakfast for Quota and
guest speaker Deborah Wallace, APM, who has 33 years’ experience in the NSW Police Force, was inspiring, hilarious
and poignant. Deborah is a Detective Superintendent and has been Commander, Gangs Squad since 2014. Deb first
came to the attention of the public when she was the young detective who helped re-enact the series of events that lead
to the murder of Anita Cobby in 1986 – a turning point in the case, and her career. I commend Quota and the exceptional
work of their volunteers to you. Happy International Women’s Day to all the gals!
Wizard of Oz Musical – Sponsorship Opportunity for your business
As you know, the College will stage the all-time favourite musical, Wizard of Oz, this year. We have developed an
enviable reputation with the South West community for delivering very high quality musicals and this year will be no
exception. This year’s production will be held from 28-30 April and 5-8 May in the (air-conditioned!!!) John Lambert
Auditorium and our students have already been rehearsing for many weeks.
Whilst ticket sales assist with some costs, we rely on sponsorship which allows us to produce a musical with high
production values, particularly for the technical production and staging.
We would like to offer our College families the opportunity to promote your business to both our College Community and
those from the local area who may attend, by becoming a sponsor of the 2016 production.
We have included a copy of our Sponsorship Brochure in this edition of The Way and hope that you might consider
becoming one of our valuable sponsors. There are different sponsorship levels and I would be happy to discuss this
proposal with any families who may be in a position to provide this extra level of support … as well as benefit your
business. T: 9608 0033 or E: jhutchens@thac.nsw.edu.au
Mrs Jo Hutchens
“Apart from having a fantastic evening I also got to
meet some new parents and catch up with some new
friends I have recently made. Thank you”
Eggs are a traditional symbol of Easter communicating new life, but in
Rwanda an egg can literally mean the difference between life and death for
children.
The “Egg A Day” project is rescuing children from malnutrition and reducing
child mortality in that corner of the globe.
After the Rwandan genocide in 1994, villages were left with thousands of
unattended children, between the age of two and five. Often a five year old
would be left to care for one or even two younger siblings.
The local Anglican bishop in Rwanda, Dr Laurent Mbanda, decided to use
church buildings as pre-schools for these unattended children. He also noticed that many of these children were
malnourished from protein deficiency as their families were too poor to own poultry, let alone cattle. And so began the
‘Egg A Day’ project, where children would be given an egg a day. Currently, there are 1,500 eggs being produced daily
and distributed in 17 of the 200 preschools.
Believe it or not, for these children, an egg is the highlight of their day and the
children wait quietly and expectantly.
But the project does more than provide essential protein in the child’s diet. It
provides employment for people at the poultry farm where the eggs are
produced.
The ‘Egg A Day’ program means that in Rwandan preschools this means that
there is;
•
•
•
a safe place for kids to go while their mums and dads work in the fields
somewhere to learn letters, numbers and other important stuff before starting school
an opportunity to learn about Jesus who made them, loves them, died for them and provides for their basic needs
In Australia, Anglican Aid has set up sponsorship for this event and at our College Cross Country, we will be collecting
money at our barbeque to help support this. If you would like to find out more about this charity and contribute yourself,
go to: https://anglicanaid.org.au/oneegg
Happy Easter!
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Matthew 25:40
Rev Stuart Tye
Congratulations
Gavin & Elise Daley welcomed a new addition to their family with the birth of their
son, Kai Jeremiah in the early hours last Saturday morning. Mum and bub are
doing well and we are thankful for God’s goodness to this family.
Year 2 Excursion to Fairfield City Farm
The Olden Days
Last week Year 2 had the privilege of visiting Fairfield City Museum to experience what life
was for our great grandparents.
We learnt many things about life in the olden days. We had an ‘authentic’ experience inside
a school classroom. The building was small and made of timber. It was used to educate
children from the farms around the area. The furniture was basic with a blackboard in front of
the class and some maps on the wall. The desks were bolted to the ground. The students
ranged from Kindergarten to Year 6. All in one room! We were inspected by the teacher
before entering class to make sure that our hands were clean and that we were dressed
appropriately. The boys had to turn their pockets inside out to make sure there were no
rocks in their pockets. Once we were inside, we used a nib dipped in an ink to well to do
some writing. It wasn’t easy! It was a hot day when we visited the museum and it was even
hotter inside the school room. We imagined what it would’ve been like for our great
grandparents when they were inside that room in summer. It would not have been pleasant
at all!
There was no electricity and running water back then. Life was pretty simple. We were most
impressed with their genius invention of a ‘safe’ to keep their food fresh. It was a box made
of a metal fly screen which was hung on the wall. The screen would protect the food from
flies, mice and cockroaches but also let the air in. In summer time, they would wet a piece of
hessian cloth and put it over the safe to keep the food cool and fresh.
The General Store
Hand & Nail Inspection
Here are some of the students’ reflection from the day.
On Tuesday we went on our excursion. 2L and 2C came. First we went to the old school. We
got to use ink pens from the olden days. We also saw the cane. The school looked very old.
Next we went to an old house. It was called Caversham. It was very fun and we saw an old
fridge (which was an ice box). Then we went to the laundry. We hung the washing and the
folded them. Lastly we went to the general store. By Natasha (2L)
Hanging the Washing
On Tuesday 2C and 2L went to Fairfield City Museum. First we visited the general store.
They didn’t have the same things as now. Next we visited the blacksmith. He put a piece of
metal in the hot fire. He has to do it over and over again. Then we visited the old school. We
learnt how to write with ink. Last we played some olden days games. My favourite game was
called the ‘knuckles’. By Caitlyn (2L)
I went to Fairfield Museum on Thursday 3 March. I went to the school house and learnt how
to write with ink. I went to the blacksmith and he made objects with metal. Next I went to the
laundry. It was very old but it was fun. Then I went to the dress-up area. Ava wore old
clothes and she looked pretty. I went to the games area and started playing with the skipping
rope. By Rocio (2W)
The Blacksmith
I went to Fairfield Museum on the bus and it took us 20 minutes to get there. We got off the
bus and had recess. Then I went around the place. First I went to the old school. Next I went
to the store and we learnt how they cut cheese. They used a cutter to cut cheese. Then I
went to the blacksmith and I saw how they made hooks with the fire. By Nicholas (2W)
Andrew, Adrian, Charlie, Mathew and Brock were sitting at the back of the bus having fun.
We had recess when we arrived at the Museum. At the laundry, we hang and ironed clothes.
Playing with the Knuckles
At the little cottage, we saw a fire place, wooden toys and a piano. At the blacksmith, we saw
a fire and at winter it was very cold. At the general store, there was a man called John. He was
a very nice man. The store sold Milo and John said Milo has been around for a long time. At the old school,
we wrote with a nib dipped in ink. People got to dressed in the olden style clothes. Last but not least,
we played some olden days games. By James (2D)
Year 2 Excursion to Fairfield City Farm
On Tuesday, my class with to Fairfield City Museum with 2L. We went there to
learn about the past. First we went to the blacksmith. Then we went to the laundry
to learn how people used to wash their clothes. We had so much fun. Lastly we
went back to school. By Mila (2C)
On Tuesday 2C and 2L went to Fairfield City Museum. We dressed up as one of
the olden days people. First we went to the blacksmith. He taught us how to bend
a metal. In the olden days, when something was broken, he told us to take it to
the blacksmith. Next we went to the dressing up area. Ana, Ben, Isadora and
Alex. S dressed in the olden days style clothes. Then I went to an old school and
we wrote with wet blue ink and it was fun. By Faith (2C)
Mrs Woods with students
Multilit Training in the Junior School
A volunteer group of parents met on Thursday 18 February to be trained
as tutors for The Multilit Reading Program in the Junior School. These
tutors will work individually with students in Years 3 – 6 for 30 minutes
each reading session. We currently run two sessions each morning from
8.30 – 9.30 in R Block.
The program consists of sight words, word attack skills, fluency
development and spelling strategies. Text reading follows, during which
time the tutors question and discuss with the student the main points of
the story read. Our parent volunteers are enthusiastic and have made an
excellent start with their students over the past few weeks. We look
forward to a positive year of reading together.
The College is grateful for the parental support we receive and we
welcome both our experienced and new tutors as they help our students
develop the essential elements of reading.
If you are interested in being a Multilit tutor this year please contact Mrs
Wheadon via the College office.
Mrs D Wheadon
Coordinator of Learning Support
Junior Choir
The College Junior Choir had their first rehearsal last Thursday and made a
beautiful sound! Students auditioned from Years 3- 6 and are part of the newly
formed group under the direction of Mrs Allison Lewis and Vocal Tutor,
Francesca Olsen. Students still interested in auditioning and joining the group
are encouraged to collect an application form from Mrs Lewis or Mr Lane.
Preparations are under way for our first performance!
Parent Portal
A reminder to all parents :
Please update any changes to contact details including phone numbers and email addresses to ensure that all
correspondence from the College is received.
All student absences need to also be verified through the Parent Portal within 7 days of each
day of absence.
Any enquiries please email parentportal@thac.nsw.edu.au
Years 3-6 Sport - Term One
Term 1 IPSSO Draw
Term 1
IPSSO
Game Time
16-Mar
Training of
teams Yr 5 & 6
1.00 - 2.20
23-Mar
St Mark's
William Carey
CS
ASG
30-Mar
6-Apr
Depart
Girls Soccer
Cricket
Oz Tag &
Softball
THAC
THAC
THAC
12.30 - 2.20
12.10
Hoxton Park Res
Powell Park
THAC
12.30 - 2.20
12.10
Hoxton Park Res
Powell Park
THAC
12.30 - 2.20
12.10
Hoxton Park Res
Powell Park
THAC
All teams train Wednesday morning 7.30 – 8.15am (except Girls Soccer – 7.30 – 8.30am).
Parents are encouraged to come along and support the teams each week.
Term 2 Sport - for Years 3 - 6
The Winter IPSSO competition commences in Term Two and continues through to the end of Term Three.
Trials for IPSSO teams have been finalised.
*
IPSSO teams – Winter Sport teams represent our College in Boys Soccer, Girls Netball, Mixed
Newcombe Ball and Volleyball, Mixed AFL and Mixed Tee-ball/Softball.
*
Students who are not involved in IPSSO teams will participate in the Year 3 -6 College Sports
program.
All sports are taught by qualified coaches and the sport runs for the entire term. There is no cost
associated with the program as is covered by College fees.
NSW CIS Junior Basketball Trials
Congratulations to Dillon Cruz, Aydin Dursun, Mark Carbone, Jessica Weston and Emijila Vidakovic who
were selected to represent NASSA at the NSW CIS Basketball trials on Friday 26 February.
All students performed well throughout the day and represented the College with pride. Unfortunately they
were unsuccessful in being selected for the CIS team. We are very proud of your efforts, well done!
Junior School Cross Country Carnival - Friday 1 April – Week 10
Years 3-6 Only
Venue:
The Primary Cross Country Carnival will be held at College on the ovals.
Distances: Students in the 8, 9 and 10 year old age groups will run 2km
Students in the 11 and 12 year age groups will run 3km
Clothing:
College sports uniform.
Nutrition:
Students should have a nutritious breakfast on the day of the carnival.
They are required to bring a refillable drink bottle, with water in it.
HELP WANTED . . . We need some parental assistance to help make the day a success.
Parents are required to sit at ‘checkpoints’ around the track to ensure students stay on the track.
Please notify Parent Reception if you can assist on the day.
Junior School NASSA Swimming Carnival
Best of the Best Champions!
The NASSA Junior Swimming Carnival was held on Tuesday 1 March at Sydney
Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. Many of our have been training hard under the expert
guidance from our coach and former College captain, Dale Edginton and Danielle
French.
As a team, our swimmers performed brilliantly in both individual events and the relays.
Their commitment and dedication saw us place a credible 4th in the overall pointscore.
A highlight of the night was the final race, the Best of the Best relay. This relay has the
fastest 9, 10, 11 and 12 year old swimmer from each school, in the final relay race to
finish the carnival. For the 2nd year running our College won the relay. A welldeserved result for the team: Mia Tran, Cooper Smith, Travis Smith and Will Diener.
As a College we were very proud of the swimmers for their efforts and achievements.
Thanks also to the parents who attended to cheer our swimmers on, your support was greatly appreciated.
Congratulations to the following students who will represent
Travis Smith
11yr 50m Freestyle
11yr 50m Breaststroke
11yr 50m Backstroke
OPEN 100m Freestyle
11yr 50m Butterfly
Senior Boys Relay
Will Diener
12yr 50m Freestyle
12yr 50m Backstroke
12yr 50m Butterfly
12yr 50m Breaststroke
OPEN 100m Freestyle
Senior Boys Relay
10yr 50m Freestyle
Junior 50m Backstroke
Junior 50m Butterfly
Cooper Smith
Junior 50m Breaststroke
Mathew Vongprachanh
11yr 50m Breaststroke
Dahlia Logozzo
Junior 50m Breaststroke
Arielle Logozzo
12yr 50m Breaststroke
Zane Finneran
Senior Boys Relay
Lucia Garrido
9yr 50m Freestyle
Senior Boys Relay
PE and Sport Reminder
It is advisable that your child has a refillable drink bottle on Sport and PE days to ensure that they are able to rehydrate after exercise. A frozen drink is also a great idea. All children are required to wear the PE cap or College hat
for sporting activities.
Athletics skin/tights
Students representing the College wishing to wear athletic tights or skins
under their College sport shorts are only permitted to wear the College athletic
tights. These are available from the College uniform shop at a cost of $20.00.
Tights should not be visible or hanging out from underneath the College
Sports uniform.
AFL – GWS Giants visit
On Wednesday 9 March Pat McKenna from the GWS Giants visited our
Year 3 Boys during their AFL session. It was great to see him encouraging
our junior AFL players.
Important Junior School Sport Dates for Term One
Week 8 -
Monday 14 March - NASSA Junior Boys and Girls Soccer Gala Day – Camden
Week 9 -
Tuesday 22 March – NSW CIS Swimming Carnival – Homebush
Week 10 -
Thursday 31 March - NASSA Junior Girls Netball Gala Day – Penrith Valley Indoor Stadium
Week 10 -
Friday 1 April – THAC Junior School Cross Country – at College
Week 11 -
Wednesday 6 and Thursday 7 April – NSWPSSA Swimming – Homebush
Week 11 -
Thursday 7 April - Cops and Kids League Day – Browns Family Reserve –
(IPSSO Senior Oz Tag team)
Throughout the year, there are also NSW CIS trials for some sports which do not have a Gala Day as an entry path.
If your child plays representative sport in Softball, AFL, Hockey or Rugby Union please see Mrs Evans to indicate your
expression of interest to be nominated for these sports.
Students need to be in Years 5 or 6 and have represented their Association in their sport.
Information regarding CIS trials and sports available is found at; https://www.aisnsw.edu.au/Services/CIS/Pages/
Sports.aspx
Mrs Sharon Evans
P-6 Sports Coordinator
NSW All Schools State Triathlon
On Friday 3 March nine Thomas Hassall students competed at the Sydney
International Regatta at Penrith for the NSW All Schools State Triathlon
Championships. With a turnout of over 2,500 competitors we realised that we were
in for a tough day of racing. With many of our students racing for the first time there
were some nerves setting in. All of our teams did an exceptional job with a fantastic
achievement from our intermediate boys team consisting of Adrian Neoklis (run),
Marco Kalik (Bike) and Harrison Dalianis (swim) taking out 14th place across
the state of 70 teams. It was a fantastic day and we look forward to even better
results next year. Thankyou to the parents who came and supported out teams.
Thankyou also to Miss Friel and Mr Butler to took the team, despite the early 6am
start and extreme heat, and allowed the day to run effortlessly.
Junior Boys Team 1
Intermediate Boys
Jerome Nakhl
Junior Boys Team
2
Michael Rhus
Lukas Kaltsas
Luke Sullivan
Marco Kalik
Elijah Cruz
Dejan Miljusevic
Harrison Dalianis
Adrian Neoklis
NASSA Swimming Carnival
The Senior NASSA Swimming Carnival was held at the Sydney Olympic Park
Aquatic Centre on Wednesday 2 March. We had over 40 students from Thomas
Hassall competing in various events throughout the evening.
Our team attended several training sessions which were ran by Dale Edginton and
Danielle French at the Whitlam Centre. The aim of these sessions were to come
together to build team spirit, practice relay changes and improve our starts and
finishes. A massive thankyou to Dale and Danielle who worked with our students
and helped out during the NASSA carnival. Their help in marshalling,
timekeeping, team organisation and team moral were irreplaceable.
As a team, our swimmers performed brilliantly in individual and in the relays. Our commitment and dedication saw an
improvement in the team results, placing 5th in the Junior division and 6th in both the Intermediate and Senior divisions. This
placed us with a credible 6th in the overall point score. Thankyou to Mr Geering who organised and ran the team as well as
acted as our NASSA official on the day. Stephanie Taylor, Miss Mansour, Miss Sharma, Mrs Mertzanakis and Ms Raft also
helped on the day with time keeping, marshalling and team managers. Mr Young and Mr Whelan supported our team
throughout the night and increased the team moral. Thankyou to all the parents who also helped out at the carnival by
supporting and cheering on our students.
Congratulations to the following students who will represent NASSA at the AICES Swimming Carnival on the 30 March in
both individual and team events:
Addison Evans
Alana Francis
Andrew Adam
Angus Geoghegan
Bradley Micallef
Charlise Eades-Formica
Claudia Maday
Damien Trimboli
Emmaline Furley
Georgia Cosier
Harrison Dalianis
Jordyn Sinclair
Luke Sullivan
Matthew Deoliveira
Sophia Kovac
Tristan Moledo
William Collyer
ACIES Tennis Opens
Anuj Singh participated in the AICES tennis Open championships on Thursday 11
February. Playing students who are were several years his senior Anuj showed great
skill acquisition and determination. Over 60 students were nominated to be selected to
play in this competition. Anuj played well in the pool rounds and only narrowly missed
out on the playoffs. We look forward to hearing about his future tennis competitions and
wish him well in his upcoming Tennis tournament.
NASSA Tennis Gala Day
The NASSA Tennis Gala day was played at the Wests Tennis Club, Leumeah on the
Friday 4 March. Our students adapted to the new fast rules which were endorsed as a
prelim to the AICES Tennis Schools cup. The day saw minimal injury despite the heat
and lengthy games. The Gala day finished with an amazing rally between the Open
boys Broughton and Thomas Hassall singles, the outcome of which determined who
would progress to the final. Unfortunately our team narrowly missed out by one set due
to an ill-fated injury late in the match. Thomas Hassall finished 5th in both the girls and
boys competitions, which resulted in an impressive improvement from the 2015 results
placing us 5th overall. The students should be congratulated on their tireless effort
throughout the day, amazing team attitude and continuous never-say-die fighting spirit.
Thankyou to Mr Butler who trialled and trained the team for the last couple of weeks. A
big thankyou to the Mr Palmer and Miss Mansour who supported the team on the day
and enabled some fantastic athletic exhibitions and sportsmanship from our team.
Miss Mansour was also invaluable in the smooth running and organisation of the Gala
Day. We look forward to the competition next year where our Tennis team will clearly be
a force to be reckoned with.
Thomas Hassall Cross-Country Carnival
This year Senior school will be running the Thomas Hassall annual Cross-country
carnival at Rossmore Grange on Monday 21 March. The day will commence at 8am and
finish at normal school time. We look forward to this opportunity to exhibit some of our
cross-country runners who made it through to state last year as well as our up and
coming junior students. The day will also encompass several House events including
house relays, stage relays and a generation relay. The day is set to be an amazing day
of competition, fun and house spirit. Don’t forget to bring a picnic blanket and plenty of
food and water for the day. Stay tuned for more information.
Important Dates for Senior Sport for Term 1
THAC Cross-country - Monday 21 March
AICES Swimming Carnival - Wednesday 30 March
NASSA Netball Gala Day - Thursday 7 April
Throughout the year, there are also NSW CIS trials for some sports which do not have a Gala Day as an entry path.
If your child plays a representative sport outside of school please ensure that you see the PE staff to indicate your
expression of interest to be nominated for these sports. The most current details for sport nominations will be in the
Daily Bulletin. Students are also encouraged to let the PE staff know the competitions students partake in
Iocal competitions. We are always happy to report and celebrate with the sporting successes
of our students.
Ms Anna Mugridge
Senior Sports Coordinator
Intermediate Bands Visit Oran Park Anglican College
On Friday 4 March the Intermediate Concert Band and Stage Band visited our
sister school – Oran Park Anglican College – to perform two sets and
demonstrate instruments featured in the Concert Band.
Oran Park students, who have just commenced a compulsory band program,
have shown great interest in this program and benefited from seeing these
instruments in action.
Mr Byron Mark was able to showcase each instrument with the help of our
wonderful students. The Intermediate Stage Band was able to showcase the art
of improvisation by performing in a jazz/funk style.
This is both groups first performance outside of College and thus a tremendous
learning experience for them. We look forward to sharing more musical
opportunities with this school in the future.
Mr Nick Lane
Director of Ensembles
The Hub Performances
The HUB performance this week was perhaps the most variety our
Thomas Hassall student community have had put on display for them
this year! Performers ranged from senior vocalist Mirabel Collyer singing
a vocal solo, all the way to powerhouse vocal duet from two Year 7
students, Tatiana Mendez and Anneliese Luxton (who also multi-tasked
and played piano whilst singing harmonies!)
Other performers were Elysia Mayne performing a vocal solo while
accompanying herself on the piano, and the Matthew Squire quartet,
accompanied by Pierson Ford on bass, Mr Lane on piano and myself on
tenor saxophone. This particular piece was a jazz standard where all
members were sight-reading – a great effort by all performers!
A big thank-you again to all those performers, and to our student and
staff community who continue to provide a supportive audience and
friendly environment for students to showcase their talents.
Mr Byron Mark
TAP Football Program
The TAP Football Program commenced in Week 3 and
sessions run Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons.
If you are in Year 3 and above and are interested in trialling
for the TAP Football program it’s not too late!
FOOTBALL
PROGRAM
Trials can be organised this term.
Application forms are available at
Football Development Programs
The College offers Football Development programs for students in Kinder – Year 6. The programs are offered
to both boys and girls and will be conducted by our TAP Football Program Head Coach, Ramsin Shamon.
The one hour sessions are designed to improve the skill level of each individual and cater for all abilities.
Students will be involved in fun activities that develop skills and promote understanding of the game.
Kinder – Year 2 Program – Tuesday, 3.00 – 4.00pm. This program is full, names placed on short waiting list
Year 2 – Year 6 Program – Thursday, 3.00 – 4.00pm. – 2 positions available in the program.
Once students are in the program, they hold their place in the program for the year.
If you require information on any of these programs, please contact Mrs Evans, P-6 Sports Coordinator and TAP
Coordinator - sevans@thac.nsw.edu.au Brochures and application forms are available at the College Office.
From the College Nurse
Year 7 Vaccinations
Vaccinations will take place at the College TOMORROW. If you have not already done so, please return your
consent forms to the College Nurse as soon as possible. Please ensure your child eats a good breakfast before
coming to College on Tuesday.
Nut Free Environment
There are a number of children enrolled in the College who have particular allergies. Most of these can be managed
without reference to other students. However, several children have a life-threatening allergy to
nuts including peanut butter and Nutella and any snack products containing nuts. As a result, we
ask that parents refrain from packing nut products or products that may contain nuts for recess,
lunch or on special occasions where food is sent to classrooms for parties, etc. This includes
home made items. Please check product labels carefully to ensure that you do not inadvertently
endanger the health of one of our students. If a student arrives at College with a food that
contains nut products, the food will be confiscated and an alternative lunch provided, if
necessary. Families are also reminded that this practice is followed when the College holds
special treat days or events. We strive to minimise the risk of exposure to nuts and this can only
be achieved with the co-operation and involvement of the community. It is important that we remember
that we are all responsible for student health and safety.
Ms Karen Tindall
College Nurse
College Cashier Operating Times
Please note that the Cashier operates at Student and Parent Reception as follows
7:30am – 9:30am Monday – Friday
Thank you for your cooperation.
Mrs Coral Raymond
Office Administration
Important News from the Enrolments Team
Now is the time to submit applications for siblings who wish to be considered for 2017 enrolment.
Siblings for 2018 enrolment and beyond will need to have lodged their applications two Calendar years in advance.
The Application Fee is $100 and $500 Acceptance fee (non refundable) per child.
If you have any further enquiries please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Jeanette Merrett (Junior School Enrolments) or
Mrs Priya Deguara (Senior School Enrolments) as interviews are presently being conducted.
The Enrolments Team
Car Park and Traffic Updates
Please remember to use drop off zones when picking up or dropping off your children in the car parks. Please do not
allow children to get out in the middle of car parks but ensure that they are dropped directly onto the pathways
provided. We understand that people have time constraints particularly in the morning but the safety of our children
always must come first.
Southern Cross Ave, Middleton Grange Road Closures
We have been advised that the temporary road closures in Middleton Grange have been extended and will be
completed by Sunday 20 March 2016 (weather dependent). The traffic set up still remains as follows for that period
Temporary full road closure of Southern Cross Avenue between Windstock Avenue and Custance Street
Temporary one-way (westbound traffic permitted only) traffic movement along Southern Cross Ave between
Monkton Ave and Windstock Avenue.
We appreciate your cooperation and patience always.
Teasing vs Bullying
Bullying is a term that’s wrapped in emotion. For many people it’s associated
with bad childhood memories. It’s been estimated that around 40% of people
have experienced bullying in the past. It’s something that we don’t want to
happen to our kids.
But I fear it’s being overused at the moment and confused with teasing and
rudeness.
Rudeness refers to thoughtless behaviours and thoughtless words. Kids often do rude things to each other
without thinking their actions through. Examples include breaking wind in a child’s direction; joking about the colour of a
child’s hair in front of others; failing to share possessions and neglecting to acknowledge someone. Rudeness is usually
about selfishness and thoughtlessness. Taken on their own many rude behaviours can be seen as an element of
bullying but when looked at in context they are more about thoughtlessness, lack of consideration
and poor manners rather than a deliberate attempt to hurt someone.
Teasing refers to annoying, hurtful behaviour that is used to get a reaction from someone
else. Teasing can be persistent in nature; but not always. It’s generally an attempt to get under a
person’s skin. It can involve name-calling; it can be personal and hurtful in nature. It can also
infringe on another person’s rights. But generally teasing doesn’t have the key ingredients that
make up bullying.
Bullying is the selective, uninvited, repetitive oppression of one person or group by another. It involves three
elements – intent to hurt or harm; power imbalance; and repetition over time. It takes many forms and guises including
physical aggression; verbal abuse; emotional aggression (or blackmail); intimidation and harassment and exclusion.
Why the distinction?
Our ability to be discerning about bullying is as important as the action we take when we are sure that our child is on the
receiving end of Bullying behaviour. These actions include: dealing with feelings; providing emotional coping skills,
getting others involved; building up a child’s support networks; and building self-confidence that can take a battering.
Bullying needs to be taken seriously. But we also need to be discerning about bullying behaviours.
By Michael Grose
For more information see Michael’s website, http://www.parentingideas.com.au
Mrs Clare Calderwood
Student Wellbeing