As part of the Stage 6 Chemistry Course — Module 1: Properties and Structure of Matter — Year 11 Chemistry students from RHAC visited the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) to deepen their understanding of atomic structure, isotopes, and radiation.

Students engaged in hands-on learning and scientific demonstrations highlighting the properties of unstable isotopes and the methods used to detect and measure radiation. A key activity involved the use of a scintillation counter to investigate the characteristics of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. In another demonstration, students observed how data is collected in a radiation experiment using low-level radioactive sources and appropriate detection equipment.

The excursion also provided an opportunity to explore ANSTO’s world-class facilities. Students were shown detailed models of the OPAL (Open Pool Australian Lightwater) Research Reactor, where they learned about its operation and the diverse applications of nuclear science in research, industry, and medicine.

Site tours included:

• OPAL Reactor – Australia’s only nuclear reactor, used for neutron beam research and medical isotope production.
• Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering – where scientists use neutron beams to examine the structure of materials at the atomic level.
• Centre for Accelerator Science – which supports a range of research applications from environmental science to materials engineering.
• ANSTO Nuclear Medicine Facility – where life-saving medical isotopes are produced for diagnostic imaging and cancer treatment.

This immersive experience at ANSTO allowed students to directly connect their theoretical knowledge to real-world applications of nuclear science and enhanced their appreciation of the role chemistry plays in modern society.

Mrs Nadine Engelsman
Science Teacher

Year 10 STEM students have been working all term on a project to design a board game. In groups, they had to come up with a game concept then work out the gameplay and the rules of the game. They also had to design the game board, playing cards and game tokens, which were printed using the 3D printer. After completing their board games, students then played each other’s board games for enjoyment and peer review.

This was an incredibly challenging task with a lot of critical thinking, creativity and collaboration skills involved, yet all students rose to the challenge and produced some amazing board games. The engagement in this task was exceptional and every student thoroughly enjoyed the project.

What a night! Our Year 7 and 8 students had an absolute blast at the PJ-themed disco last Friday. The Auditorium was filled with laughter, great music, and some very impressive dance moves. From Oodies to colourful onesies, matching PJ sets and fluffy slippers, everyone embraced the cosy vibes while still bringing plenty of energy to the night.

It was so good to see so many students getting involved, dancing with their friends and enjoying the chance to relax and have some fun outside the classroom. We loved seeing everyone having such a good time. We even had some awesome break dancing!

A big shout-out goes to our Year 12 students who came along to help out. Whether they were welcoming students at the door, running the lolly table, or dancing along with the students, they were a huge help and brought such a great sense of leadership and support to the night.

The disco raised over $2,600 for The Jeremiah Project —a local ministry that supports people experiencing homelessness.

Thank you to everyone who made the night happen—students, staff, volunteers, and families. Your support has made a real difference, showing that when our community comes together, we can have fun and create change at the same time.

Mrs Georgia Migon - Year 7 Advisor
Miss Tayler Whan - Year 8 Advisor

RHAC's very own Year 7 student, Hugh G. , is set to represent Australia at not one, but two international baseball championships in the USA this July.

This is the second year in a row that Hugh and his Hills team have won the Australian National Baseball Championships. Last year, Hills Red took out the Little league Australian Baseball Championships and went on to represent Australia in Williamsport, Pennsylvania at the Little League World Series.

"Hugh was thrilled that his teachers, College staff and school mates came to watch his games and cheer him on whilst in Australia and then tuned in to ESPN to cheer Hugh on whilst he was in America," said his proud mum, Lara.

Last Friday, Hugh and his Hills team took on Melbourne Athletics in the Intermediate League Australian Championships gold medal game in Melbourne. Hills won 12 - 2.  Hills finished the tournament defeated; however, Hugh's two run homer in the Gold Medal game saw him taking out the most valuable player award.

Hugh and his Hills team are now off to Livermore in California to compete in the Intermediate World Series in July, before Hugh moves on to play for Australia in the Cal Ripken World Series in Branson Missouri.

"We are incredibly grateful for the outstanding level of support Mr Hartley, the RHAC teachers, staff and friends have shown Hugh."

(Story and photo submitted and published with permission from Lara G)

It was wonderful to bring the Junior School community together for our end of term Celebration Assembly. The energy and enthusiasm of our students was evident as they sang, played music, danced, received awards and congratulated their peers. This enthusiasm was matched by the parents who joined us for the morning. Already, in the two times we have had the assembly, it has become an important part of the Junior School calendar. It is great to be able to celebrate the achievements and values of students as they have applied themselves to their learning and the life of the College.

I’d also like to acknowledge the way that the students politely and quietly waited as the dance item was set up. This reflects the respectful way that students are conducting themselves in their classes and around the school. As I said at the assembly, I am very thankful for our teachers who give 200% to support every student’s growth and providing amazing opportunities for them. We are all looking forward to the break and to returning for another term worth celebrating.

Congratulations to all our award recipients below:

Our Years 5–6 students recently attended a police-led seminar focused on helping young people stay safe and make smart choices online. Presented by Constable Sophie from Riverstone Police Station, she highlighted the growing presence of technology in daily life and the importance of cyber safety. Constable Sophie also provided students with practical advice on how to navigate the digital world responsibly. It was an engaging and informative session that equipped students with the knowledge and valuable tools to navigate the internet responsibly and stay safe online.

Here are some firsthand reflections from our Year 5 students, Aarohi P and Ameera S:

• Be Safe Online: "Last Tuesday a police officer, Constable Sophie from Riverstone Police Station came to visit us and talk about cyber safety. The constable explained that we shouldn't talk to strangers, never reveal personal information and never write intimidating stuff in our group chat. She said if someone makes you feel unsafe online we should tell a trusted adult about it. This talk was very important because it helped us learn that we must be safe online by never talking to strangers, no bullying and never revealing our personal information." (Aarohi P)
• A Sobering Seminar: "Constable Sophie purpose was to warn us about potential dangers while surfing the ‘Net’. One clear message was to always tell a trusted adult if we feel that someone has posted something weird and inappropriate. For example, you are in a group chat and somebody said something about hitting someone. When this happens you should always tell a trusted adult and report it to the police. The speaker warned us about the age of people who play on internet which is common to be 30 years old. This helped me understand that some people use very little techniques to take your information off your mouth." (Ameera S)

Peer Support in the Junior School consists of a series of organised peer-led sessions which commence in Term 3 Week 2. The program targets the whole of K-6 students and is led by Year 6 leaders who facilitate six small-group sessions under the supervision of teachers. Each 30-minute session is designed to help integrate our students into school life as well as improve their mental, social, and emotional wellbeing.

"The Peer Support Training was an amazing experience to learn and build skills that are crucial for when I lead my group in the next term. With fun games, activities and challenges, the teachers prepared Year 6 for every little concern we could have. In more detail, we first learned how to communicate in different ways, partnering up with someone from a different area of the room to do a game that really strengthened our communication skills. Following that, we learned about empathy and we created posters showing the potential challenges and highlights of Year 1 and Year 6’s life. To further help us understand empathy, we created a small play that highlighted empathy. However, throughout the day, we participated in a small competition that pushed us to be on our best behaviour.

"There were three main things I learned. Firstly, I learned how to work together in a large group, (15 people), to work together to please everyone whilst overall, making something enjoyable and fun, which was the result of our skit. Secondly, I learned ways to solve challenges that I would have to overcome during the actual sessions, especially managing time effectively. One way I learned how to tackle this challenge was when we, as a group of 15, had to figure out ways to solve three different scenarios, and one was a situation surrounding time-management. Finally, I understood how to communicate ideas efficiently, delving into what communication is and how the key component of communication is listening." (Methuki W, Year 6)

Dr Catherine Tikoft
Stage 3 Leader

Last week, the Auditorium transformed into a sonic universe as Moon Radio Hour landed at RHAC for an unforgettable musical performance. Presented by Musica Viva, , this wildly imaginative show was part concert, part theatre, part cosmic radio broadcast—and it had students (and teachers!) completely captivated.

From the moment the first note sounded, the trio of talented musicians—armed with saxophones, guitars, flutes, samplers and more—had us zooming through space and bouncing through sound. Their energy was infectious, their improvisation spontaneous, and their sound effects? Out of this world.

But the real stars? Our students.

With a mix of laughter and creative chaos, they took the stage to become loud, erupting volcanoes and powerful, roaring rockets , giving the professionals a run for their money. The volume may have lifted the roof a few centimetres, but so did the joy. It was pure, noisy brilliance.

And then… silence fell.

A hush. A pause. A dramatic beat.

In a performance that will be talked about for light years to come, Miss Haggar channelled the infamous Ghargahar—an evil bird from the dark side of the moon—with such force, flair, and vocal power that she left everyone completely stunned. With just a squawk, a glare and a few well-timed flaps, she stole the show. (We’re told the musicians are still recovering.)

A huge thank you to Moon Radio Hour , Musica Viva, and everyone who made this cosmic musical experience possible. We’re still humming—and possibly still watching the skies.

Until next time... over and out.

Dr Catherine Tikoft
Stage 3 Leader

A new group of students from Years 3-6 have had a wonderful time again this term during Junior School Extra Curricular time. As part of our service project, we are learning about the life giving work of The Water Gift – a charity organisation that provides safe drinking water to those in our world who don’t have access to it, using the SAFE sticker. The SAFE sticker is a world first innovation to ensure water is safe to drink.

Darryl from the Water Gift taught us about the process of SODIS and we learnt how to correctly prepare and make the stickers. The students were so excited to be learning about this innovation and also to have the opportunity to serve those in other parts of the world through making stickers for families to have access to safe drinking water. It was also exciting to have various students from Year 10 volunteer their time and visit the Junior School to support our younger students in this project. Please visit the Water Gift website for more information.

This week, our Junior School Library Monitors held our annual Second Hand Book Sale to raise money for our Compassion sponsor children. The books sold were all ex-library books. The students from Pre-K to Year 6 had the opportunity to attend the stalls and purchase books. We are very excited to announce that the sale was a HUGE success raising just over $915.00 towards the continued sponsoring of our Junior School Compassion children, Dora and Soloman.

Mrs Roycroft (Junior School Teacher's Aide) captured some happy faces of our Pre-K students with their book purchase.

Year 5 student, Ameera S, participated took part in the Australia's Biggest Morning Tea at Rouse Hill Town Centre, an initiative hosted by the Cancer Council. With the support of the local community. Ameera raised over $1,500 for this important cause.

"What made this event even more special is that Ameera baked cupcakes all by herself and sold them alongside a delicious variety of savoury items and Indian desserts. Her dedication, planning, and effort were truly commendable, and the positive response from the community was overwhelming," beams her proud mum, Amina.

"We’re very proud of her commitment to helping others and thought it would be lovely to share this achievement with the school community that continues to inspire and support her."

(Story and photo submitted and publish with permission by Amina A)

Early Bird Bookings

Early Booking Closed 12:00pm, Wednesday 18 June 2025.

Casual Bookings

Casual Bookings Closed 12:00pm, Friday 20 June 2025.

Bookings received after this cut-off will now be considered Last-Minute and charged at the current fee schedule.

Please note: Once a booking is made, the session is payable regardless of attendance.

Programmed activities and excursions are subject to weather conditions and may change due to circumstances beyond our control. Excursions and centre-based workshops are also subject to change and require a minimum of 30 children to proceed.

K-6 Robotics and Coding Program - Castle Hill Learning Hub

Secure your place in the Term 3 program at Sypher Space Learning Hub, Castle Hill—spots are limited and filling fast! Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to learn, grow, and connect.

• Coding and Robotics
• LEGO® Engineering
• Public Speaking Exercises
• Debating
• Drama
• Science Experiments...and more!

July Holiday Workshop

Sypher Space is also offering programs jam-packed with STEAM learning activities including:

• Science and Robotics
• Art Lab
• Science
• Public Speaking

Click below for more information and to register—both programs are filling quickly, and places are limited!

Please ensure all lost property items are collected before the end of Term 2.
We currently have a number of items at both Junior and Senior School receptions. If items are not collected by next week, they will be donated to the P&F.

For labelled items, we have emailed the relevant students to collect them.

We will be performing maintenance to our network systems on Saturday 5th July between 8:00pm – 3:00am Sunday 6th July. During this time, your access to the Edumate Parent Portal may be disrupted.

We thank you for your patience.

RHAC IT Services
[email protected]

Effective from Term 3 , parents will no longer need to email the College when their child will be absent. Instead, parents/carers are to wait for and respond to the absence notifications that are sent via the College mobile app.

Parents/carers are already receiving absence notifications via the College mobile app at approximately 9:30am each morning where they are asked to submit a reason for their child/s absence.

Although this process has been in place for some time, we would like to streamline the process further. Currently, parents are still being asked to email [email protected] or [email protected] to report known absences. This process will be phased out.

To allow families time to adjust, we will continue accepting absence emails for the remainder of Term 2 . We encourage families to download the College app using the links below.

Thank you for your support.

The College Shop will be closed during the July school holidays and will reopen on last Thursday of the holidays 17th July 12:30 – 5:30pm.

Bookings are essential for uniform fittings.

We are delighted to inform you that Rouse Hill Anglican College will be participating in the world-renowned ICAS competition this year.

What is ICAS?

ICAS is an online academic competition that is designed to assess students’ higher order thinking and problem-solving skills in English, Mathematics, Science, Writing, Spelling Bee and Digital Technologies. Each assessment celebrates students’ accomplishments by providing opportunities for recognition and development. Every student who participates will receive a printed certificate and an online results report. Top performers will be eligible for medals.

How to participate in ICAS

If you wish for your child to participate in ICAS this year, please:

1. Read about ICAS subjects and prices HERE
2. Read the terms and conditions HERE
3. Go to Parent Portal to purchase tests HERE
4. Enter our school’s access code – NNB002
5. Enter your child’s details, select the tests you would like to purchase, then proceed to payment.

Please note that the ICAS tests shown for selection are at the school’s discretion.

After payment is made via the Parent Payment System, you will receive an order confirmation email, please keep this for your records. The Parent Payment System and registrations for ICAS 2025 will close on Monday the 28th of July. ICAS will be held in Term 3 from the 4th - 29th of August.

ICAS results and certificates

All assessments will be conducted online, at school. We will notify you of the date(s) that we will run ICAS assessments, and when your child’s ICAS results are ready. Your child’s ICAS certificates will be delivered to school. Once we have received them, we will present them to your child to bring home. The back of the certificate will show your child’s ICAS results and the login details, “TAP ID and Pin”. - Use these to enter the Results Portal orti.icasassessments.com/ortiStudent .

Junior School Parents – Please note that the assessments will take place outside of school hours beginning at 8am on school grounds so as to not interrupt the regular classroom day.

As part of a wider enhancement to services which includes increased frequencies and extended routes, Busways and Transport for NSW will make minor timing changes to some school services to improve on-time running.

Please be aware that the new school timetable will be in effect from Monday 30th June 2025. Download the letter below for more information.

Parents and students are advised to please refer to their schools timetabled services at: https://www.busways.com.au/nsw/school-services/school-timetables and select the link adjacent to their schools name; “ New timetable | 30 June 2025 ” or visit https://www.transportnsw.info/trip to plan their trip.

For further information, please contact Busways Customer Service on 1300 69 2929 or [email protected] .

Interested in Bus Transport?
We’re pleased to share that there are currently available spots on the RHAC Private Bus servicing the Cattai, Pitt Town, and Hills of Carmel bus route.

This is a convenient and safe transport option for families in these locations, offering peace of mind, reliable service, and a supportive environment for students as they travel to and from school each day.

If you’d like to secure a place or find out more, please email [email protected] to enquire. Places are limited, so don’t miss out!

From time to time, fellow families at the College are hit by unforeseen stresses (physical, emotional, financial, etc.). The RHAC P&F, through your support, facilitates a way for those families to access quality meals in their time of need to simply ease a bit of the pain during difficult times.

You can help by donating a store-bought meal , or by donating as little as $10.00 by clicking the TryBooking link below which would be greatly appreciated. If you can provide a store-bought meal for the freezer, slices/banana breads / muffins (lunch box fillers) and desserts are also most welcome and may be dropped off with Mrs Sharon D’Agostino at the College main reception.

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.

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.

Over the coming weeks, we will be updating the way we communicate certain information to families, with the aim of reducing the number of emails you receive and to ensure you don't miss any updates. More details will be shared soon.

The mobile app links directly links to:

• Edumate Parent Portal
• Absences
• College Calendar
• Your child's timetable and events (incl. permission notes)
• Clipboard
• Academic and Wellbeing Reports

• Parent and Carer Handbook

• Weekly newsletter

• College Shop (Valour)
• Munch Monitor
• Announcements (coming soon)

Please bookmark the new College Shop website so that you can order uniforms easily. If this is your first time visiting the new uniform shop you will need to create a new login and password and read the full user guide below.

The Terms Dates 2026 calendar can be downloaded from the:

• RHAC website
• Parent and Carer Handbook
• College mobile app