From our Head of Senior School
Service & Connection
Service & Connection
One of the great privileges of working with young people is witnessing the growth that occurs when they begin to look beyond themselves and recognise their capacity to contribute to the lives of others. In a world that often emphasises individual achievement, service reminds us that we are part of something much larger, a community built on connection, responsibility and care.
As Christians, we are called to serve others as an expression of our faith. Jesus reminds us, "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve" (Mark 10:45). This powerful example challenges us to see service not as an occasional act, but as a way of living that places the needs of others alongside our own.
Research consistently shows that young people who engage in service develop stronger empathy, resilience and a greater sense of purpose. More importantly, they learn that their actions, no matter how small, can have a meaningful impact on others. These experiences help shape character and foster a lifelong commitment to contributing positively to society. At RHAC we provide many opportunities for students to serve and to connect with others in the community.
Recently, a group of our Year 12 students visited a local nursing home in Dural. While many may assume that such visits primarily benefit the residents, the experience proved equally enriching for our students. Through conversation, shared activities and simply spending time together, students gained a deeper appreciation for the wisdom, experiences and stories of older generations. They learned that service is often less about what we do and more about the relationships we build.
Our partnership with local church groups also provides further ways for students to engage with the wider community. Whether assisting with outreach initiatives, supporting local events or participating in service projects, students are learning the importance of generosity, compassion and active citizenship. These experiences reinforce the values we seek to nurture at the College and remind our young people that they have a valuable role to play in strengthening the communities around them.
At the College, service also extends to our responsibility for the environment. Throughout the semester, students have contributed to a range of environmental care initiatives across the College. Our Environmental Care prefects lead their portfolio with a focus on sustaining our resources. From maintaining gardens and outdoor learning spaces to participating in sustainability projects and environmental awareness campaigns, students are learning that stewardship of our natural environment is an important form of service.
For some adolescents, service can sometimes feel like an obligation. Yet many discover that it becomes one of the most rewarding aspects of their education. Through service, young people develop perspective. They begin to understand that success is not measured solely by personal accomplishments but also by the positive difference they make in the lives of others. Our Year Group sessions regularly focus on aspects of service learning, with our Year 11 students recently engaging in some development sessions on servant leadership.
As parents, you play an essential role in encouraging this mindset. Conversations at home about gratitude, responsibility and helping others reinforce the lessons students encounter through school and community experiences. Through modeling at home, our young people see that they are part of a bigger picture; one where kindness matters, relationships matter and every act of service contributes to a stronger, more connected community.’
The Apostle Paul encourages us: "Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others" (Philippians 2:4). By working together as families, schools and community partners, we are helping to raise young people who not only aspire to achieve but who also seek to serve. In doing so, we prepare them not simply for future careers, but for lives of purpose, compassion and meaningful contribution.
From our Head of Junior School
The Power of High Expectations
The Power of High Expectations
One of our five teaching and learning principles at RHAC is to have high expectations for our students. These expectations are about believing deeply in what our students are capable of in their character, their effort, and their learning, and designing opportunities with this in mind. When we hold these expectations with care and consistency, we begin to see their impact in every corner of school life.
This week, I had the delight of hosting two Year 4 boys for the Relay for Life high tea in my office. It was a lovely variation to my day, and a powerful reminder of the difference high expectations make. From the moment they arrived, they demonstrated exemplary manners as they respectfully and genuinely engaged in conversation. They spoke thoughtfully, listened attentively, and conducted themselves with maturity. Their school uniforms were worn with pride, and their conversation was peppered with joyful reflection of being Junior School students. It was a joy to spend time with them, and a clear example that when we nurture high expectations, our students rise to meet them.
We see this same commitment to excellence in our Junior School musical, Finding Nemo . Alongside a team of teachers led by Miss Vincent, students give up their own time after school to attend rehearsals. They practise their lines, learn choreography, and support one another as part of a team. Their dedication requires persistence, resilience, and a willingness to keep improving. Yet it is through this effort that they grow in confidence and experience the joy of achieving something together. Similarly, on Tuesday I was nearby while one of the Junior School choirs was practising. These students had come early to school to work together with Mrs Arthur on the piece they are learning and the harmony from their rehearsal space was beautiful.
High expectations are not only evident in performance, but also in the steady and often unseen progress of learning. This week, I spoke with one of our teacher’s aides, who shared how much improvement she has seen in the reading of the students she is working with. This is the fruit of high expectations combined with patience and care. I am also grateful for the example set by our Senior School students who come in before school to listen to some of our Stage 1 readers. This act of service reflects a culture where students understand their responsibility to others. It shows that high expectations extend beyond academic achievement as they shape character, compassion, and a willingness to support those around us.
Whether on the sporting field at Gala Day, in the classroom, or in moments of quiet practice, our students demonstrate what is possible when they strive to do their best. They learn that effort matters, that perseverance leads to growth, and that success is found not only in results, but in the way they conduct themselves along the way.
Thank you for supporting your children as we work together to have high expectations for all students. Together, we are shaping children who strive for excellence not only in what they achieve, but in who they are becoming.
From the Scriptures
Fully Known, Fully Loved
Fully Known, Fully Loved
"Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did."
John 4:29
One of the deepest human desires is to be truly known. We long for people to understand us not just the polished version we present to the world, but the real person underneath. Yet there is also a fear that if people knew everything about us, they might not accept us.
In John 4, Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at a well. It is an unexpected encounter. Jews and Samaritans typically avoided one another, and a rabbi would not normally engage in a public conversation with a woman. Yet Jesus intentionally seeks her out.
As the conversation unfolds, Jesus reveals that He knows her completely. He knows about her broken relationships, her disappointments, and the complicated story of her life. Nothing is hidden from Him. When she realises this, she says, "Come, see a man, who told me all things that ever I did" (John 4:29). What is remarkable is that Jesus does not turn away from her. He does not shame her, reject her, or dismiss her. Instead, He offers her "living water" the gift of eternal life and lasting satisfaction found in Him. The woman discovers something extraordinary: she is fully known and fully loved at the same time.
This is the heart of the gospel.
Many of us live somewhere between hiding and performing. We hide the parts of ourselves we would rather others not see, and we perform in hopes of earning approval. Yet Jesus offers something better. He already knows us completely our failures, fears, regrets, and weaknesses and still invites us into a relationship with Him through His grace.
As parents, this truth is not only good news for us; it is good news for our children as well. In a world where young people often feel pressure to prove themselves, achieve more, or curate the perfect image, the gospel offers a secure identity. Our children need to know that their worth is not found in their performance, popularity, or achievements, but in the God who knows them completely and loves them deeply.
This week, may we rest in the confidence that we are fully known and fully loved by Christ. And may our homes reflect that same grace as we point our children to the One who satisfies the deepest thirst of every human heart.
Heavenly Father, thank You that You know us completely and yet love us perfectly through Jesus. Help us to find our identity and security in Your grace rather than in our performance. May our homes be places where Your love is reflected, and may our children come to know the joy of being fully known and fully loved by You. Amen.
College News & Announcements
What's coming up in Senior School
What's coming up in Junior School
Senior School News
Making Meaningful Connections
Making Meaningful Connections
Recently, a small group of College Prefects visited Dural House, a local aged care residence in the Hills District, with the aim of bringing joy and connection to members of our wider community.
During their visit, the students spent time chatting with residents, listening to their stories, and learning about their life experiences. The prefects also shared flowers and handwritten notes as small acts of kindness, helping to brighten the residents' day.
A friendly game of carpet bowls provided plenty of fun and laughter, creating opportunities for meaningful interaction and connection. The visit was a rewarding experience for the students, who gained valuable insights and a renewed appreciation for the importance of community, relationships, and finding joy in life's simple moments.
We are grateful for the opportunity to serve others and make a positive impact within our local community.
NSW Health Vaccination Catch-Up Clinic
NSW Health Vaccination Catch-Up Clinic
NSW Health will be onsite at the College on the morning of Monday, 22 June 2026 to provide vaccinations for students who missed their scheduled vaccinations earlier this year.
Parents and carers can find more information about the vaccination program and provide consent online via the NSW Health website:
https://engage.health.nsw.gov.au/engage
If you are unable to complete the online consent process, please contact Mrs Catherine Abbott, College Nurse , and a paper consent form can be sent home with your child.
Stage 5 Subject Selection
Stage 5 Subject Selection
Senior School Sports News
Senior School Sports News
Hills Zone Sports Association | Week 8 Result
| Team | Week 8 Result |
|---|---|
| Junior Boys Football | LOSS 0-4 |
Our Junior Boys Football team proudly represented the College in their first Hills Zone competition, progressing all the way to the final on Thursday afternoon.
Facing a strong and undefeated opponent, the boys knew they were in for a challenging match. Despite the result not going their way, going down 0–4, the team demonstrated resilience, determination and sportsmanship throughout the game, continuing to compete with great spirit until the final whistle.
Reaching the final in their debut Hills Zone campaign is a significant achievement and reflects the boys’ teamwork, commitment and growth across the season. The experience gained will no doubt serve them well for future competitions.
We congratulate the team on their efforts and the way they represented the College with pride.
AICES Netball Cup
Our girls represented the College with pride at the AICES Netball Cup on Wednesday, competing against some of the strongest teams from across the 85 AICES member schools.
The team performed exceptionally well in the pool rounds, finishing with four wins and just one loss to secure 2nd place and a spot in the semi-finals. In a thrilling semi-final against Illawarra Grammar School, the girls displayed incredible determination in a match that went back and forth and into multiple periods of overtime. Showing great composure under pressure, they emerged victorious with a 28–26 win to book their place in the final.
The final saw a rematch against Central Coast Sports College following their earlier pool loss. Despite a tremendous effort and competitive performance, the girls went down 15–22, finishing the day as AICES Division 1 Runners Up, an outstanding achievement.
A special mention goes to Emma Reynolds, who, despite being injured, attended the day and provided excellent sideline coaching and support for her teammates. We also acknowledge Jessica Van der Merwe, who demonstrated outstanding team spirit by stepping into a Goal Keeper role and performing brilliantly, despite usually playing in an attacking position.
Coaches Ms O’Hagan and Ms Goldie were incredibly impressed with the team’s spirit, resilience and courage throughout the day.
Junior School News
Junior School Debate Success
Junior School Debate Success
Our year 6 debating teams have wrapped up the preliminary rounds of the HICES Junior Debating competitions. Out of the 6 debates our team partook in they came away with 5 victories, what an incredible effort! The teams have worked incredibly well together sharing ideas, researching and finding reliable sources, reframing and creating models to support their arguments and delivering speeches and rebuttals with maturity and clarity.
We are anxiously awaiting final results to see if we made it through to the knockout rounds.
Congratulations; Ethan, Mithila, Stephanie, Amelia, Hazel, Maanvi, Lara, Kallie and Selena.
Sponsorship Opportunities Now Open for Finding Nemo Jr.
Sponsorship Opportunities Now Open for Finding Nemo Jr.
We are excited to announce that sponsorship opportunities are now available for our upcoming Junior School Musical, A Disney Pixar Production of Finding Nemo Jr. , taking place from 3–5 September 2026 .
This much-loved Disney production will showcase the creativity, confidence, and talent of our students as they bring the colourful underwater world of Nemo and his friends to life on stage. The musical promises to be a highlight of the school year, bringing together students, families, staff, and members of the wider community for an unforgettable theatrical experience.
We are inviting local businesses, organisations, and community members to partner with us and support this exciting production. Sponsoring Finding Nemo Jr. is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to youth performing arts while gaining valuable exposure within our school and broader community. Sponsors will be recognised through various promotional opportunities associated with the production.
Whether you are interested in becoming a major sponsor or supporting the event at another level, we would love to hear from you.
To learn more about our sponsorship opportunities, please contact our Marketing Team at: [email protected]
Thank you for considering partnering with us to help bring Finding Nemo Jr. to life and create a memorable experience for our students and audiences.
Don't miss this exciting opportunity to support our Junior Musical, Finding Nemo Jr. Sponsorship Expressions of Interest close on Friday, 10 July 2026 .
Kindergarten Explores the Wonders of Living Things
Kindergarten Explores the Wonders of Living Things
In Science, our Kindergarten students have been exploring God’s wonderful world of living things and discovering how plants and animals play an important role in our everyday lives. Through this unit, students are learning about the many useful things that living things provide for us. They have discovered that cows give us fresh milk, sheep provide wool for clothing, and plants grow into the nutritious foods we enjoy each day. Students have also been learning about where our food comes from and the journey it takes from the farm to our homes.
As part of their studies, students have explored how plants and animals contribute to the clothing we wear and investigated the basic needs that all living things require to survive and thrive.
To enrich their learning, we welcomed Golden Ridge Animal Farm to the College to share their knowledge and expertise. Students were delighted to participate in a range of hands-on experiences, including milking a cow, gently holding fluffy rabbits, and meeting adorable ducklings and chicks. The children were thoroughly engaged throughout the visit, and their excitement and curiosity were evident.
This memorable incursion brought classroom learning to life, helping students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the living world around them. We extend our sincere thanks to Golden Ridge Animal Farm for providing such an engaging and educational experience.
Year 6 Explores Freedom Through Coffee Art
Year 6 Explores Freedom Through Coffee Art
This week in art, Year 6 have been learning about artworks created by refugees. Coffee painting has become prominent in refugee communities, especially those still waiting to enter Australia. Without access to water colours, paints or other colouring media, refugees use what they had do have access to, which includes instant coffee powder. Mixing more or less water with the powder creates different strengths of coffee, which is then used to gain different depth of colour in the artworks. Inspired by this style and the theme of “freedom” Year 6 created their own coffee artworks.
Maanvi and Sargun from 6F4 reflected on their artworks.
My coffee artwork is in the theme of freedom and is inspired by the artwork I did when I was 9 years old. The girl standing in the middle with an umbrella is my focus. In the background there are lush brown trees representing a serene mood and peaceful vibes. The dots in the background are the raindrops that I created by flicking the bristles of the brush. The big black circle at the top is the sunset. Everything combined creates a pretty scene with a girl walking freely. The girl in the middle represents freeness and no worries. – Maanvi N
My artwork is inspired by the theme ‘Lack of Freedom’. The small, wooden boat is waiting patiently for someone to set it free from the abandoned shore, the someone that would never come. The island consists of luxurious trees and hard rocks scattered on the rough ground. A jetty is seen stretching across the vast ocean . In the background, a miniature sun shines its rays in the partly cloudy sky. For my artwork, I used various different techniques like glazing which is applying light layers of colours, though in this scenario coffee, onto a fully dried base layer. For darker shadows and cleaner lines, I used a black sharpie and a fineline pen. As you may notice, the sun looks brighter than the rest of the portrait to contrast with the dark brown colour. – Sargun H
Stage 2 – Service Project
Stage 2 – Service Project
Our Stage 2 Service Project, which we conduct every year, consists of writing letters to members of our community to uplift them. This involves learning about the lost art of letter writing, how to address and format a letter, and what to include in one. We then agree on a plan for what will be included in each paragraph of our letters before creating our first draft. Our teachers then read through and edit each student’s letter. A final copy is then written in our very best handwriting. Next, the letters are placed inside cards created from one of our artworks and finally sent to the recipients.
This semester, we decided to complete this task in conjunction with First Responders Day on 10 June 2026. We wrote to police officers, paramedics, firefighters, SES volunteers and the RFS. As this is a service project, it means that we do things for others with no expectation of anything in return. Today, we were fortunate enough to receive a heartfelt thank-you email from Castle Hill Police Station, in which they wrote:
I read through the letters tonight on night shift and my heart was warmed by the lovely, intelligent and heartfelt messages of support from these young souls. Small things in life make you smile and tonight this was one of those small things.
I would just like to express my appreciation as a first responder with some 30 years of service. We go about our job in the best way we know how and to see these comments and questions from the kids made me smile.
It is a wonderful activity that allows us to write with real purpose while uplifting others in our community at the same time. The students were very proud of their efforts and final products.
JS Movie Day
JS Movie Day
Junior School Movie Day
On Thursday, our Senior School Prefects hosted Junior School students across three fun-filled movie sessions, creating a wonderful opportunity for connection and community.
Session 1 welcomed Kindergarten students, who enjoyed an episode of Bluey followed by a short film, The Snail and the Whale, based on the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson. After the screening, our Prefects led the students in a series of energetic games including Duck, Duck, Goose, What’s the Time, Mr Wolf? and Simon Says. The session finished with a lively “Danny Go” dance-off, ensuring plenty of smiles and laughter.
Session 2 brought together students from Years 1 and 2, who settled in with popcorn while watching Bee Movie, enjoying a relaxed and entertaining experience alongside the Prefects.
Session 3 included students from Years 3–6, who also enjoyed popcorn and a drink while watching Toy Story, rounding out the day with a much-loved classic.
This initiative was thoughtfully planned and organised by our Vice Captains, Isabella and Atticus, and supported by the Senior School Prefects. It provided a wonderful and enjoyable way for students across the school to spend time together and build a strong sense of community.
Junior School Library News
Junior School Library News
CBCA Shadow Judging
During Library lessons all students in Years 2-6 have been reading and enjoying the shortlisted books for the Early Childhood and Picture Book of the Year Categories and our Year 6 Book Club have been reading the Younger Readers novel category. The judging process is a great way for our students to engage on a deeper level with the books and each other when discussing the criteria. The judging will be completed and our votes cast, just before the big announcement during Book Week in Term 3.
Overdue Books
Sadly, we have a small number of very overdue books that have not yet been returned. Overdue notices have been sent home with students over the past two weeks and reminders have been given in class time, if the books are not received next week accounts will be notified to charge for the lost books.
RHAC P&F Association
RHAC Spring Fair 2026 – Excitement is Building!
RHAC Spring Fair 2026 – Excitement is Building!
The countdown to the RHAC Spring Fair 2026 is officially underway and planning is already in full swing for what promises to be a fantastic community event on Saturday, 12 September 2026 from 11:00am to 4:00pm.
Firstly, on behalf of the P&F Association, I would like to sincerely thank the many parents and carers who have already submitted Expressions of Interest to volunteer or take on a Stall Leader role. The enthusiasm and willingness to contribute have been wonderful to see and we are incredibly grateful for your support. The success of our Spring Fair is only possible because of the generosity and commitment of our College community.
If you missed completing the Expression of Interest form last week, there is still time to get involved. We would love to hear from you, the link to the EOI form is at the bottom of this article. We are also excited to announce that Expressions of Interest for student-run stalls will be released next week. Students who would like to secure a stall at the Fair will have the opportunity to submit an application and be part of this much-loved event. We encourage students with creative ideas, entrepreneurial spirit to get involved.
College Umbrellas
College Umbrellas
Did you know you can purchase College umbrellas?
The P&F is excited to offer College-branded umbrellas for sale! These stylish and practical umbrellas are perfect for keeping dry during school drop-offs, weekend sports, and everyday use. Priced affordably, all proceeds from umbrella sales will go directly back to the College to support student programs, resources, and community initiatives. Your purchase not only keeps you covered – it helps make a meaningful difference at our school.
Available in large or small size. Please note, small umbrellas are available for students from Year 3. Place your order by scanning the QR code below or clicking here .
Community Notices
Community News
Work with us: Available positions
Work with us: Available positions
Join our vibrant, dynamic, and caring team in a welcoming, friendly, and professional environment.
RHAC welcomes applications from qualified candidates for both teaching and non-teaching positions. Click below to view our current vacancies.
Important Links & Resources
College Mobile App
College Mobile App
A reminder to all families to download the Rouse Hill Anglican College mobile app which has been designed to connect and enhance our community's College experience.
The app extends the functionality of the Edumate Parent Portal, offering easy access to important information anytime, anywhere from your mobile device.
- Absences
- College Calendar
- Your child's timetable and events (incl. permission notes)
- Clipboard
- Academic and Wellbeing Reports (incl. awards)
Parent and Carer Handbook
Weekly Newsletter
- College Shop (Valour)
- Munch Monitor
