From the Principal

Important staffing updates

Term 4 in schools is often busy managing staffing changes and ensuring that the school will have capable, committed teachers to start the new school year. Thankfully, we are experiencing significantly less staff turnover in 2024 than we have for several years. However, we will sadly be saying goodbye to a few committed staff members in December. All of them have reflected very positively on their time at RHAC and I wish them well for the future. We have welcomed, or will be welcoming, some impressive new teachers and aides. I trust that the following summary will be of interest to our parents.

Valued staff who are finishing with us:

Mrs Robyn Gray – Robyn is one of our longest serving staff members, having started at RHAC in 2004. She has made outstanding contributions to Christian education and student well-being in particular. Robyn will retire at the end of the year. May the Lord bless her in the future.
Ms Rebekah Quill – Rebekah will be finishing with us at the end of the year. She has been a skilled, dedicated TAS teacher and I wish her well for the future.
Ms Fiona Khoo – Fiona has taught at RHAC for over 5 years. Her commitment to, and perception of, some of our youngest RHAC students is admirable and much appreciated. Fiona has decided to retire and will finish just before the end of the year.
Mrs Jo Barrett – Jo has been a dedicated teacher’s aide at RHAC for the last 9 years and will retire in December. Her passion for supporting young learners will be missed.

I previously mentioned that our Head of Science, Mr Morgan Williams, will leave us at the end of the year.

Welcoming new staff:

Visual Arts teacher – RHAC welcomed Mrs Elisabeth Goodhew at the beginning of this term. Elisabeth proved to be an excellent candidate for this role and comes to us with a wealth of experience.
Head of Science – Mrs Yana Dennis-Smither has been appointed to replace Mr Williams as our Head of Science from the beginning of 2025. Yana comes to us from Bede Polding College where she has been a highly regarded Head of Science.
Science teacher – We are continuing to look for a strong Science teacher to replace Mrs Swart.
English teacher – Our growing school needs an additional English teacher from the beginning of next year and I am thankful that Mr Peter Tucker will be joining us. Peter has considerable experience and comes to us from St Joseph’s Hunter’s Hill (Joeys).
Junior School teachers – The College is part way through a recruitment process to replace Ms Khoo and to employ an additional teacher to cater to enrolment growth in the Junior School.
Junior School teacher’s aides – RHAC is currently looking for 2 teachers’ aides for the Junior School. One to replace Mrs Barrett and the other will be an additional aide to help the college provide support to children with identified needs.
Senior School learning enrichment Teacher’s Aides – Mrs Louise Smiles joined the team this term. We are currently recruiting for an additional teacher’s aide in the Senior School. Sarah Haim (who currently works part time in the Grove Café) was chosen to fill one of these positions. Sarah’s warmth and enthusiasm will be a blessing to our students. She will start at the beginning of 2025. We are working on replacing Sarah in the café.
Senior School library assistant – Mrs Angeline Dela Cruz has been appointed from a strong field of candidates to work part time in the library from the beginning of 2025.

Available Positions at RHAC

Mr Brett Hartley Principal

From our Head of Senior School

Positive relationships are important

I have always found that the best way to get the ‘feel’ of a school community is to take a walk around the grounds and have some spontaneous conversations along the way. This week I have been able to have an early morning check in to see Year 11 off to camp, join a game of handball with some Year 7 boys - admittedly I got ‘out’ very quickly! -, listen to a group of students talking to our café baristas about their upcoming assessments, calm the nerves of some Year 12 students awaiting their Music HSC exam, and help a Junior School student pick up some papers that a pesky bird had been scattering about after playing in the bin at lunch time.

Walking around classrooms is also another way we can get a sense of where our students are headed and how our Teaching and Learning Principles look in action. Observing lessons both through classroom windows and by popping in, I am able to see what our students are engaging in and observe the explicit and direct instruction that they are receiving. What is most evident, and what creates a sense of how the school ‘feels’, is the relational manner in which our teachers approach the education of our students. Beyond the classroom, teachers foster these connections in different ways; through coaching teams, leading student-interest groups, and through simple, incidental conversations on playground duty. There is a strong sense of community when I look around and see our students and their teachers engaging in these ways.

The Bible teaches us that positive relationships are important, and most significantly it is our relationship with God that shapes the way in which we interact with others. We are instructed to love our neighbour and to avoid selfish motivations. Philippians 2:4 reminds us that we should not be ‘looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” and Galatians 6:10 further compels us to remember, ‘Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers’. At our staff Devotions this week, we have reflected on the ways in which Christ models right relationships and prayed for these qualities to guide how we engage with one another in our community.

On another note…

In the Senior School so many moments of growth and improvement occur and are acknowledged and celebrated in real time. There are also more formal occasions where we are able to recognise student accomplishments, one being our annual Presentation Day at the end of Term 4. It is at this event that we are able to highlight the achievements of a broad range of our students in the areas of living out College values, academic attainment, sporting success and in a variety of specialised areas. Whilst not everyone receives an award at this assembly, encouragement and recognition are part of the language used in classrooms, in the playground, and on school reports, ensuring each student knows what they have done well and where their next goals should be directed.

Have a lovely week.

Mrs Leisa Bromley, Deputy Principal & Head of Senior School

From our Head of Junior School

Junior School Awards

When I am on the pick-up car duty in the afternoon, I like to ask students about their favourite part of the day while we wait for their car. They tell me about things that happened in the classroom, lessons they love, games they played and unexpected things that happened. Often, they will tell me about a success they had, a merit stamp they received or that they are about to receive their navy, bronze or silver award. All these pieces of news are given with smiles and excitement. This is the joy that comes from being part of a learning community at school.

Throughout the school day, students are rewarded for their learning. While this looks different for different students, teachers work diligently to ensure that their teaching enables all students to learn and grow and to recognise how they are improving. Most importantly, when students experience success, they are intrinsically rewarded. They feel good about themselves and are eager to learn more. I find out about these successes when I visit classrooms and students proudly show me what they are doing or when students approach me in the playground to tell me about an achievement.

Teachers also reward their students through smiles, encouraging words and feedback for improving their work. These small, but important actions, help students to grow and develop both academically and socially. There are, of course, times when a teacher needs to remind or redirect students so that they can walk a better path. We have high expectations of all our students as we want them to be successful in their learning and in their play. These high expectations are also important as they help students to understand how their actions affect others in learning and in the playground. This means that students occasionally receive small consequences for their actions. These brief timeouts provide students with time to reflect and consider a different course or action.

At our assemblies, we give out merit, sporting and music awards. Our merit awards recognise students who go above and beyond in their actions and words. I value that these are not connected with academic success, but rather with how what they do and say reflects their character, care and courage.

In the last week of Term 4 on the 4th of December, we have our formal Presentation Day where we celebrate academic effort and achievement. We give out a variety of awards including the Principal’s Banner. To ensure a consistent approach throughout the Junior School, two students from each class will be awarded this banner. At this event, some students will receive awards, and some will not. This is challenging for teachers as we would like to give every student an award as we do throughout the year in big and small ways. A great deal of discussion and data analysis is used to make these decisions. It is important that these decisions are left in the hands of teachers and not by parent request. Ultimately, our measure of success is about much more than who is the best. In the end, we want all students to reach their potential and to grow into adults who love God and love their neighbour.

Dr Kaye Chalwell, Head of Junior School

From the Scriptures

James 1:19-27

Last week, I mentioned that the book of James had a profound effect on my life as a new Christian and to this day, continues to impact my life every time I read it.

In my earlier years, I used to ask myself, “Am I doing what this passage says?” but I have since realised it is easy to deceive yourself and think that you do. I have since asked myself “If I were to ask my family, am I being the person that this passage wants me to be?”. The first thing you need to know is, I have not asked them, why ? I didn’t need to ask them, for now I am faced with a true reflection of how I should see myself and more often than not, it drives me back to seek God’s forgiveness and help.

Today’s passage is from James 1:19-27 .

¹⁹ My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, ²⁰ because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. ²¹ Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

²² Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. ²³ Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. ²⁵ But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

²⁶ Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. ²⁷ Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Now that you have read the passage, can I ask you to re-read verse 22 again, reflect on this for a moment. How does this verse sit with you? Is it true in your life?

Have a look again at verses 19 and 27. Are they true of you as well?

Let me encourage you to take the opportunity to talk to Jesus about what you have just read and thought through.

Mr Wayne Conoulty, Chaplain and Head of Christian Education

Celebrating Learning

Leaders who lunch

In Week 3, we will be inducting our student leaders for 2024-2025. It has become a tradition for our outgoing College Captains to have brunch with the incoming College Captains and share their experiences and advice over a meal.

It is our pleasure to announce that our College Captains for 2024-2025 are Sam J and Tenisha S . Thank you to Charlize S and Benjamin F for their leadership and for continuing this lovely tradition.

We look forward to introducing you to the whole Prefect team next week.

Mrs Leisa Bromley, Deputy Principal & Head of Senior School

Year 10 Visual Arts Portraiture

Year 10 Elective Visual Arts students have again demonstrated their sophisticated artistic abilities by creating a portrait of a significant person. The portrait needed to include both traditional portrait conventions and contemporary strategies.

Traditional Conventions include:

Capture a likeness of the sitter (a significant person in their lives)
Traditional oil painting techniques, including grisaille, require the students to create a monochromatic painting first, ensuring various shades are placed strategically to ensure a true likeness. The students were then required to mix coloured glazes. Glazes are very thin layers of colour that are applied repetitively to build up the surface and create a realistic image.
Use a sign or symbol to reveal something about the sitter, such as their personality and emotional traits. This could be a hand gesture or an object.

Contemporary strategies include:

A round canvas
Purposeful colour choice and or mark-making.

And, once again, I am so very proud of them all!

Ms Sondrine Glendenning, Head of Visual Arts

Year 9-10 Visual Design 'Playtime' Program

Years 9 and 10 Visual Design classes having been working hard to create a toy. They were required to research, experiment with and document the process of creating a toy.

The toy could be created for any age group but must be purposeful. Students chose to create toys for various reasons, including developing fine motor skills, enabling teenagers to self-calm (including fidget toys and weighted toys), learning to understand and communicate feelings, healthy eating and education and comfort when a child is sick.

Take a look at their incredible creations below.

Ms Sondrine Glendenning, Head of Visual Arts

Gabi M represents NSW in Australian Girls Choir world tour

"For the last 9 years, Gabi M (Year 11) has been in singing with the Australian Girls choir," shares her mum, Jacqui.

This year the choir turned 40 and there are 6,500 girls in the choir nationally. Only 55 choristers are chosen to go on the International tour so the spots on tour are hard to get. This year Gabi is one of 11 girls from NSW chosen.

On Thursday 19th September, Gabi flew to Melbourne to meet with the other girls from around Australia. On Monday 23rd September, the group landed in Paris, France for a 3 week tour. They performed across France, Switzerland and Singapore. They stayed with host families in each country, attended schools and performed in some amazing locations and venues.

"We'd like to thank all the teachers, who have encouraged Gabi to follow her music dreams. Gabi's music journey at RHAC started in Junior school when she was in Year 4. She joined the Junior School choir and Cantabile choir. Mrs Morris was her music and choir teacher. Gabi has had so many opportunities in both Junior and Senior School to develop her music performance. She has been on two Junior School music tours, participated in HISES Choir, Junior and Senior School musicals, and Chapel band.

"Mrs Ahn was Gabi's tutor in Years 7-9 and she has encouraged her to challenge herself and get out of her comfort zone, and she is the reason Gabi chose Music for her HSC.

"Mrs Bourke has been so helpful in encouraging and extending Gabi in her solo performances this year. Fast forward to year 11, Mrs Morris is now her singing tutor and preparing songs with her for the HSC."

Wow! Congratulations, Gabi and thank you Jacqui for sharing her RHAC journey. We are also grateful for our teachers, especially on World Teachers' Day !

Lara R awarded Age Champion at Adrenaline Dance Finals 2024

We are so proud to share that Lara R (Year 8) was awarded Age Champion in the 13-14 years Elite Division at Adrenaline Dance Finals 2024 over the weekend.

Lara's winning routine, a Broadway Jazz ('All that Jazz' from Chicago The Musical) was choreographed by Lyndall Wennekes.

Lara proudly represents and trains at Caper Performing Arts in Bella Vista.

"Thank you for your support and care in allowing Lara to have the time off school to pursue her passion," says proud mum, Wendy,

Lara has also been awarded a management contract through Mini Republic, and has successfully received an audition call back for 'Annie' The Musical showing at The Capitol Theatre from March 2025.

Well done, Lara!

Georgiou H & team awarded Youth League One Premiers & Champions

Georgiou H (Year 7) and his team recently represented Sydney FC and was awarded Youth League One Premiers & Champions . Georgiou also scored the winning goal at the Grand Finals.

"The first-ever team to remain undefeated throughout the year!", says proud parent, Zara G.

"RHAC has provided Georgiou with opportunities to play in higher age groups, including participation in Under 16’s competitions such as the Bill Turner Cup and HZSA competitions. Despite being younger, Georgiou is still given the chance to represent the school".

Senior School sports news & results

In this week's Senior School sports: HZSA sports results, HZSA Volleyball Highlight, HZSA Table Tennis Championship and HZSA Junior Boys Tennis Championship

HZSA Volleyball Highlight

In what is a relatively new sport at the College, our volleyball program continues to go from strength to strength. This season, our Open Girls team put in an outstanding performance, narrowly missing a spot in the final by just one competition point. Their determination and skill development throughout the season have been remarkable, and they should be proud of their achievements. On the boys’ side, we were thrilled to enter two teams into the Open Boys competition. Our Open Boys GOLD Volleyball team has advanced to the semi-finals, which will be held next week. Their dedication has been evident in their consistent effort, often training twice a week to refine their skills and strategies.

This success would not have been possible without the incredible support and guidance of Mr. Wayne Conoulty, along with our external coaches, Sear Karami and Liam Han. Their expertise and commitment have been key to the progress and accomplishments of the teams.

We are extremely proud of both the Open Girls and Open Boys teams, and it’s great to see all the hard work paying off. Good luck to our Open Boys GOLD team in the semi-finals on Monday!

HZSA Table Tennis Championship

Last Friday, we took a team of 10 students to the PCYC Hawkesbury to compete in the HZSA Open Table Tennis Championships. It was an exciting and highly competitive day, with our teams facing some impressive opponents in every match. The standard of play was outstanding, and it didn’t go unnoticed, with spectators openly praising the quality of competition throughout the day.

Congratulations to our teams for their excellent efforts, finishing in the following positions:

Boys Division

Tyler H and Aiden A - 11th
Jesse C and Aseem G - 13th
Darsh S and Siddharth S - 16th

Girls Division

Maia B and Keira M - 6th
Holly W and Amelie F - 8th

Well done to all on a great day of competition!

HZSA Junior Boys Tennis Championship

On Wednesday, 3 of our Year 7 students represented the College in the HZSA Junior Boys Tennis Championship at Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope. Despite the challenging heat and competing against older, more experienced players, our boys demonstrated exceptional resilience and sportsmanship throughout the championship day.

Mark Jim Harris and Luca Mendonca performed particularly well, both finishing 4th in their respective pools and advancing to the finals. In the finals, they continued to compete strongly, achieving a mix of wins and losses against tough opposition.

We are incredibly proud of the boys' efforts and determination.

The final placings were as follows:

Mark J.H. - 12th
Lucas M - 13th
Guransh S - 22nd

Thank you to Mr Lambert for taking the team to this event. Well done to all involved!

HZSA Sports Results

Mr Luke Adams, Head of Student Opportunities & Teacher PDHPE Faculty

Crazy Hair Day fundraiser for Operation Christmas Child

Last Friday, our Junior School participated in a fun-filled Crazy Hair Day to raise funds for Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child , and we are thrilled to announce that we raised an incredible $1,073.55 ! These generous donations will go towards purchasing boxes and labels for gifts that will bring joy to children in need.

As part of the Year 6 and Stage 1 service learning project, students in Years 1, 2 and 6 have already brought in wonderful donations to add to the boxes. This Friday 25th October, Year 6 and Year 1 students will be packing the gifts, ready to be sent off.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed – your generosity is making a real difference!

Check out some of our crazy do's below!

Miss Penelope Fisher, Junior School Teacher/Year 2 Stage 1 Leader

Chris Z takes Bronze medal at 2024 Sydney International Fencing Festival

Chris Z (Year 3) recently competed at the 2024 Sydney International Fencing Festival (U10 Sabre) and took home the Bronze medal (3rd place). The Festival attracts fencers from across the Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore.

"Chris started Sabre from Term 4 2023 and has only had one year of training. He has extreme passion for fencing (Sabre) because he loves the history of it," says proud parent, Young Z.

Check out Chris receiving his medal below.

Junior School sports news & results

NSWPSSA Athletics Championships

On Wednesday, Chase M of Year 5 represented the Combined Independent Schools (CIS) team at the NSWPSSA Athletics Championships at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre.

Chase competed in the 200m event, placing 3rd in his heat and 15th overall, with an impressive time of 28.07 seconds. This is an outstanding achievement, well done Chase!

NSWPSSA National Boys Softball Championships

Congratulations to Archer C of Year 6, who travelled to Queensland last week to represent NSW in the PSSA National Softball Championships. NSW won 6 of their 8 games, finishing in second place. Archer’s tournament highlights include hitting 2 home runs, 3 triples, 6 singles, and 8 RBIs. Well done, Archer!

Round 8 Hills Zone interschool competition results

Mrs Wendy Strong, Junior School Sports Co-ordinator

What's coming up in Junior School

Events for Weeks 3 & 4

Information is current at the time of publishing.

For more information or to see events your child is involved in, including rep sport and extra curricular music, please check out the Calendar or Events tab on the College App (available from Apple App Store or Google Play ). Copies of permission notes can be downloaded from the event on Edumate .

Week 3

Monday, 28th October

Tuesday, 29th October

K-2 Music Celebration Assembly
Y3-6 Music Celebration Assembly
Y4-6 String Ensemble Performance
String Development Program Information Afternoon
Beginner Band Information Evening incl Performance Band Performance

Wednesday, 30th October

Thursday, 31st October

Friday, 1st November

Y1 Excursion - Brewongle Environmental Education Centre
Y2 Science 'Plant Power' Incursion
Stage 2 HZSA Afternoon Sport (Sem 2)

Week 4

Monday, 4th November

Tuesday, 5th November

Y3-6 Music Solo Performance Night

Wednesday, 6th November

Thursday, 7th November

Friday, 8th November

Saturday, 9th November

P&F Spring Fair (10am-3pm).
All welcome.
Refer to "Spring Fair News" for updates.

Term 4 calendar (updated 15/10)

What's coming up in Senior School

Events for Weeks 3 & 4

Information is current at the time of publishing.

For more information or to see events your child is involved in, including rep sport and extra curricular music, please check out the Calendar or Events tab on the College App (available from Apple App Store or Google Play ) . Copies of permission notes can be downloaded from the event on Edumate.

Week 3

Monday, 28th October

HSC Exams
Rep Sports

Tuesday, 29th October

HSC Exams
Rep Sports

Wednesday, 30th October

HSC Exams
Rep Sports

Thursday, 31st October

HSC Exams
Y9 PASS Aquatic Days
Rep Sports

Friday, 1st November

HSC Exams
Y9 PASS Aquatic Days
Various extra curricular activities
Rep Sports

Week 4

Monday, 4th November

HSC Exams
Y11 Lunch Information Seminar - Western Sydney University

Tuesday, 5th November

HSC Exams
Rep Sports

Wednesday, 6th November

HSC Exams
Rep Sports

Thursday, 7th November

HSC Exams
2025 Y12 Leadership Team GRIP Conference
Generation STEM Showcase

Friday, 8th November

Y12 Physics Luna Park Excursion
Various Extra Curricular
Rep Sports

Saturday, 9th November

P&F Spring Fair (10am-3pm).
All welcome.

Refer to "Spring Fair News" for updates.

Messages for Junior School

Uniform changes for Years 5-6

This year, the College has been developing a Stage 3 (Years 5 and 6) girls’ uniform. The skirt and blouse can be worn in both winter and summer and ultimately will replace the summer and winter tunics. While the skirt is the same as the secondary school skirt, the blouse has been especially designed for the Junior School.

After additional discussions this week, there will be a two year period where families can opt for their children to wear the existing uniform or to change to the new uniform (see below).

Thank you to Amelia L (Year 4) for showcasing the new uniform.

Dr Kaye Chalwell, Head of Junior School

Save the Date - Music events for Junior School

Welcome back to Term 4! I hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable break.

We have a busy and exciting term ahead in the Music Department, with several key events to look forward to. Please take a moment to review the important details below as we start the term together.

Tuesday, 29 October (Week 3) - Kindergarten to Year 6 Music Celebration Assemblies; String Development Information Afternoon; Beginner Band Information Evening
Tuesday, 5 November (Week 4) - Years 3-6 Solo Performance Night
Saturday, 9 November (Week 4) - P&F Spring Fair

Tuesday, 29 October (Week 3) - Kindergarten to Year 2 Music Celebration Assembly

We invite you to join us for a special assembly featuring performances by the Yearr 2 music classes, Stage 1 Choir, the String Ensemble (Years 1-3), and the String Development Program. It promises to be a delightful showcase of our youngest musicians.

Tuesday, 29 October (Week 3) - Years 3-6 Music Celebration Assembly

Our Years 3-6 students have worked hard in their music ensembles, and this assembly will celebrate their efforts. Performances will include the Beginner Band, Cantabile Choir, Intermediate Band, and the String Ensemble (Years 4-6). We will also recognise students who have shown exceptional commitment to their ensembles.

Parents of award recipients will be notified via email closer to the date.

Tuesday, 29 October (Week 3) - String Development Information Afternoon

If your child is interested in learning a string instrument, you’re warmly invited to attend an information session at 4:00pm in the Auditorium.

Tuesday, 29 October (Week 3) - Beginner Band Information Evening

For those interested in joining our Band Program (woodwind, brass, and percussion), this session will provide valuable information. It starts at 5:30pm, and students will have the chance to try different instruments to help determine which one suits them best.

Tuesday, 5 November (Week 4) - Years 3-6 Solo Performance Night

Selected students will have the opportunity to perform solo pieces in MSpace from 6:00pm to 7:30pm. Parents of participating students have already been notified by email.

Saturday, 9 November (Week 4) - P&F Spring Fair

Our Junior School ensembles will be performing at this popular community event. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the students to showcase their musical talents. Performance times are given below:

In addition, there will be other performance opportunities for our ensembles later in the term, including the Christmas Service and the Presentation Ceremony. Further details about these events will be provided as the dates approach.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in fostering your child's music education. I look forward to seeing you at many of the musical events throughout the term.

Mrs Gloria Ahn, Head of Music Department

Save the Date - Junior School Presentation Day

As Dr Chalwell shared in her message this week, on Wednesday 4th December Junior School will have their formal Presentation Day where we celebrate academic effort and achievement.

Families of award recipients will be notified by email prior to the event.

More information to follow in coming weeks.

Messages for Senior School

Save the Date - Music events for Senior School

Welcome to Term 4! I hope you all had a restful and refreshing break.

We have an exciting line-up of music events this term, and I encourage you to mark your calendars for the following and click below for details and timetables :

Tuesday, 22 October (Week 2) - Stage 5 Performance Night
Saturday, 6 November (Week 4) - P&F Spring Fair
Tuesday, 19 November (Week 6) - Stage 4 Performance Night
Thursday, 21 November (Week 6) - MADD Night (Music, Art, Drama, and Design

Tuesday, 22 October (Week 2) - Stage 5 Performance Night
Our Year 9 and Year 10 Elective Music students will be showcasing their talents with solo performances. The evening will begin at 7:00pm and conclude around 8:30pm in MSpace.

We warmly invite you to join us in supporting our students.

Saturday, 6 November (Week 4) - P&F Spring Fair

All of our Music Ensembles will be performing at this wonderful community event. Please refer to the schedule below for specific performance times.

Tuesday, 19 November (Week 6) - Stage 4 Performance Night

Selected students from Years 7 and 8 will be performing solo pieces on this evening. Audition details have been emailed to students. If your child is interested in auditioning, please contact Mr. Tyler Barnes at [email protected] for the application form.

Thursday, 21 November (Week 6) - MADD Night (Music, Art, Drama, and Design)

Year 9 and Year 10 students from the Elective Music, Art, and Drama classes will be showcasing their talents. The evening will begin with Drama performances at 6:00 pm in TLC, followed by Music performances in the Auditorium. Visual Design and Art displays will also be featured in the Auditorium.

Please also note that our students will have additional performance opportunities at events later in the term, such as the Christmas Service and Presentation Day ceremonies.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in nurturing your child's musical growth. Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us.

Mrs Gloria Ahn, Head of Music Department

Save the Date - Senior School Presentation Day

On Thursday 5th December, Senior School will have their formal Presentation Day where we celebrate academic effort and achievement.

Families of award recipients will be notified by email prior to the event.

More information to follow in coming weeks.

Faculty Support Sessions - Term 4

Do you want to improve your child' s results and their understanding of their coursework? If so, this is a great opportunity to receive guided advice and support.

Faculties in the Senior School conduct weekly opt-in study and support sessions for students to attend as they require.

Students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to access subject teachers and support and assistance for work or assessments that are currently completing. Students do not need to book a place but should arrive to the listed rooms at the times included in the below grid.

Download the timetable

Mr Hadley Johnston, Head of Curriculum & Teacher HSIE Faculty

Senior School Representative Sports Calendar & Nomination Guidelines – Term 4, 2024

In addition to these weekly updates, Senior School students have been emailed a calendar outlining all the representative sporting opportunities for Term 4.

Please note, students who nominate to trial for these teams should have extensive playing experience and in the case of AICES and CIS trials, students should be playing in a representative team outside of school at an association or state level. Some sports, such as cricket, require students to be involved in certain representative teams or academies for nominations to be accepted.

Please download the Senior School Representative Sports Calendar –Term 4, 2024 below.

Nomination Guidelines

Students MUST email all nominations (Noms) to the Head of Student Opportunities [email protected] AT LEAST 3 days before the nomination date. Late nominations will not be accepted. Students who do not nominate will be turned away from any trial they attend.

Nominations need to include the following information:

Name
Event
Date of birth
Year Group
Parents email
Playing positions (1st and 2nd preference)
Playing/representative experience

Once the nomination has been completed and accepted, further information about the trial will be sent to students and their nominated parent email address.

If you have any questions about representative sport or would like some more information about a team or trial, please see Mr. Adams at his office or email him. Additional information can also be found on each association’s website.

Hills Zone Sports Association (HZSA): https://hzsa.com.au/
Association of Independent Co-Educational Schools (AICES): https://www.aices.com.au/
Combined Independent Schools (CIS): https://cis.nsw.edu.au/home/

Rep Sports Calendar - Term 4 2024

HZSA

AICES

CIS

Mr Luke Adams, Head of Student Opportunities & Teacher PDHPE Faculty

College News & Announcements

Edumate offline Friday 25 October

Please note that Edumate will be offline on Friday 25th October from 9:00pm - 10:00pm for scheduled maintenance. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Mr Adam Fell
IT Services Manager

Whooping cough in Junior School - Signs to look out for

There has been a small number of confirmed cases of whooping cough (Pertussis) in Junior School. As it is a NSW Health notifiable disease, the College has a duty of care to inform families. Please click on this information for more details.

It is important that parents are aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention for your child should they become unwell.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the College on 8824 5844.

Mrs Catherine Abbott, Nurse

2026 Scholarships

Rouse Hill Anglican College offer a range of scholarships for entry each year into Years 7, 9 and 11. Scholarships are awarded on merit and granted at the Principal’s discretion.

Online applications for Scholarships in Year 7, Year 9 and Year 11 2026 will open Monday, 4th November 2024 and close on Sunday, 2nd February 2025.

More information will be shared in coming weeks in the newsletter and website .

If you have any questions, please contact the Enrolments team [email protected]

Mrs Sarah Crawford, Registrar

College Shop trading hours - Reminder to new PreK, Kindergarten & Year 7 students

Please note updates to the College Shop trading hours from October 2024 to January 2025 . You can view or download from the link below.

Pre-K, Kindergarten, Year 7 and new enrolment uniform fittings will be by appointment only. The online booking system will open from Tuesday, 1st October 2024. Appointments will be available from Monday, 21st October 2024.

You can order uniforms, stationery and equipment online or make an appointment via the Valour Schools website

For all enquiries, contact the College Shop directly via email [email protected] or phone 8814 3518

Download Oct-Jan trading hours

P&F Spring Fair News

Saturday, 9 November - Save $10 on ride band pre-sale tickets; Volunteers & Donations urgently needed

Spring Fair 2024 is nearly here. Mark your calendars for Saturday, 9th November .

This event is a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together, celebrate and create lasting memories. But to make this day truly special, we need your support!

Pre-sale tickets - Save $10 on ride bands

Don’t miss out on exclusive pre-sale tickets here . Purchase a ride band ticket in advance and enjoy unlimited carnival rides from 10:00am to 3:00pm.

Pre-sale pricing ends Monday, 4th November. VIP Parking passes are also available.

Donations – Stalls and Silent Auction

As we gear up for our highly anticipated Spring Fair, we are excited to announce that this year’s event will feature a Silent Auction.

We are very grateful for your consideration to provide a donation to help benefit the fundraising efforts from this year’s Spring Fair. If you’re able to get involved, we kindly request donations of items or services from our school community that could be auctioned off.

Here are some examples of silent auction items:

Gift Certificates: For local restaurants, shops, or entertainment venues
Unique Experiences: Tickets to events, vouchers for classes, or tours
Handmade Goods: Crafts, artwork, or custom creations
Special Services: Photography sessions, tutoring, or personal coaching
Themed Baskets: Filled with goodies around a particular theme
New items: Homewares, Tech and Gadgets

You can drop off items at either the Junior or Senior School reception. For digital gift vouchers, please send directly to [email protected]

Your generosity and support are greatly appreciated, all proceeds will benefit our school. We look forward to showcasing the amazing items donated by our wonderful community.

Click the links below to secure your ride bands, parking pass and much more!

Save $10 on Pre-Sale Tickets

Support your College - Sign up to Volunteer

Donation Form

Spring Fair Event Page

RHAC Facebook

RHAC Instagram

Email P&F

We still need Volunteers!

To help make this year's Spring Fair a success, we need your help. We are asking for people to either coordinate a Year Group stall or assist by helping to prepare, setup or be involved in running one of these Year Group stalls on the day. We would also appreciate assistance from those who would be willing to help in a more general capacity on the day with activities such as setup.

If you can assist, please complete the Volunteer Expression of Interest form here .

Here is a list of the stalls for each Year Group:

Pre-K Sand Art making
Kindergarten – Cake Stall
Year 1 – Lolly Stall
Year 2 – Drinks Stall
Year 3 – Plant Stall
Year 4 – Snow Cone Stall
Year 5 – Fairy Floss Stall
Year 6 – Milkshakes Stall
Year 7 – Dutch Pancake Stall
Year 8 – Popcorn Stall
Year 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 – BBQ & Hot Chips Stall

Community, Connection and Contribution

Our P&F Association is run by volunteer parents with the goal of creating a sense of community, connection and contribution amongst our College families. The proceeds from this year’s Spring Fair will be put toward building new amenities on the main oval, an initiative that will have a direct impact on all year groups at the College. We are excited to have our families involved and please do all that you can to get involved however big or small you can.

Thanks so much from the P&F Association.

Matt Perry
President – RHAC P&F Association
[email protected]

Thank you to our sponsors

Save $10 on Pre-Sale Tickets

Support your College - Sign up to Volunteer

Donation Form

Spring Fair Event Page

RHAC Facebook

RHAC Instagram

Email P&F

Important Links & Resources

Parent and Carer Handbook

The RHAC Parent and Carer Handbook (link below) is designed to provide families with information about the daily operation of the school including:

RHAC’s vision, values and approach to learning
uniform and stationery requirements
lost property
a map of the College
managing student absences
student illness and well-being (e.g. caring for students who are sick at school, school counselling and reporting student success)
extra-curricular opportunities
technology
communication - flowcharts are provided to assist parents in knowing who to contact, an explanation on how to make a complaint
parent involvement and the work of the RHAC P&F
policies and procedures

Parent & Carer Handbook

College Shop - Trading Hours, Uniform Fittings, Online Shop

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.

College Shop Hours (eff. 26/10/23)

Uniform fittings are by appointment only. Over-the-counter sales are available throughout.

For holiday hours (eg. term holidays, Easter, Christmas/New Year), please check for notices under College News of the newsletter.

2024 Trading Hours

Normal trading hours resume week commencing 05/02.

Monday – Wednesday: 8:00am - 12:00pm
Thursday – 12:30pm - 5:30pm
Friday: CLOSED

Please refer to "College Shop Trading Hours - October 2024 - January 2025" above for additional opening hours.

College Shop Contact Details
[email protected]
Ph: 8814 3518

College Shop Website

User Guide

RHAC P&F

The P&F exists to foster community, connection and contribution amongst College families, and the broader College community. We exist to generate a sense of community involvement amongst the College and to contribute back to the College through social activities, community events and fundraisers.

This is a big year for the P&F with our biennial Spring Fair. As the saying goes: many hands make light work. If you’ve been considering how you can get involved, this is your opportunity. All parents/carers are welcome to attend, regardless of your involvement in the committee.

This year, we're excited to announce the Spring Fair, a major fundraising event in the 2024 calendar. We welcome your support in planning and participating throughout the year as many hands make light work. Businesses interested in sponsorship or supplying goods or services are encouraged to reach out.

Family Support Meals

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 by clicking the 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.

Get Involved

To get involved in the P&F, contact us at the email below.

Warm regards,
Matt Perry
President – RHAC P&F Association
[email protected]

Purchase College Umbrellas

Donate to Family Support Meals

Email the P&F

Senior School building development updates

We will continue to provide monthly updates and progress photos on our website. You can also view the masterplan and general project information.

We invite you to watch a timelapse video (June 2023 to January 2024) on our website via the link below.

Progress updates

Community News

P&F Spring Fair - Saturday 9th November - Don't miss out

Rouse Hill Anglican College P&F Association presents this year's 2024 Spring Fair, Saturday, 9th November . This is an all community event and is open to RHAC families and the local community. We'd love your support.

Buy your ride band tickets: Don’t miss out on exclusive pre-sale tickets. Purchase a ride band ticket in advance and enjoy unlimited carnival rides from 10:00am to 3:00pm. Pre-sale pricing ends Monday, 4th November.

VIP Parking Pass: Limited VIP parking will be available, so be sure to secure your pass early.

Donations welcome for Silent Auction:

As we gear up for our highly anticipated Spring Fair, we are excited to announce that this year’s event will feature a Silent Auction.

Save $10 on pre-sale tickets

Support your College - Sign up to Volunteer

Donation Form

Spring Fair Event Page

RHAC Facebook

RHAC Instagram

Email P&F

[AD] Good Az Gold Tours & Transfers

We would like to thank Good Az Gold Tours & Transfers for sponsoring this year's P&F Spring Fair .

The team at Good Az Gold are pleased to announce the arrival of their new fleet of 70-seat capacity coaches. With the festive season just around the corner, these cost-effective transport options are perfect transporting large groups for your next event or function.

Click on the link below for more information.

Download flyer for more information

[AD] Grasshopper Soccer Sydney Hills - Free Trial Offer for RHAC Families

We would like to thank Grasshopper Soccer (Sydney Hills) for sponsoring this year's P&F Spring Fair .

Grasshopper Soccer is Australia's #1 non-competitive soccer provider for children 2-12 years old. Their goal is to teach kids how fun soccer can be, and aims to teach and develop soccer skills to children in a safe and enjoyable environment.

Contact Grasshopper Soccer today to book a free trial session or to enrol, call Nitin 0467 698 427 or click the links below to download the flyer, Term 4 timetable and to receive your special offer.

Special Offer

Enrolment Form

Work with us - Apply Now or share this opportunity with your family & friends

RHAC invites qualified staff for both teaching and non teaching roles to apply for the advertised vacancies. Please visit our website for more information.

Teachers interested in working to temporarily replace teachers who are absent are very welcome to discuss this possibility with the Head of Operations, Mrs Sharon Hogan by sending an email to [email protected]

Applications forms can be found on our website .

View vacancies

Download application forms

Working with Children Check

In this Issue

From the Principal

Important staffing updates

Important staffing updates

From our Head of Senior School

Positive relationships are important

Positive relationships are important

From our Head of Junior School

Junior School Awards

Junior School Awards

From the Scriptures

James 1:19-27

James 1:19-27

Celebrating Learning

Leaders who lunch

Leaders who lunch

Year 10 Visual Arts Portraiture

Year 10 Visual Arts Portraiture

Year 9-10 Visual Design 'Playtime' Program

Year 9-10 Visual Design 'Playtime' Program

Gabi M represents NSW in Australian Girls Choir world tour

Gabi M represents NSW in Australian Girls Choir world tour

Lara R awarded Age Champion at Adrenaline Dance Finals 2024

Lara R awarded Age Champion at Adrenaline Dance Finals 2024

Georgiou H & team awarded Youth League One Premiers & Champions

Georgiou H & team awarded Youth League One Premiers & Champions

Senior School sports news & results

Senior School sports news & results

Crazy Hair Day fundraiser for Operation Christmas Child

Crazy Hair Day fundraiser for Operation Christmas Child

Chris Z takes Bronze medal at 2024 Sydney International Fencing Festival

Chris Z takes Bronze medal at 2024 Sydney International Fencing Festival

Junior School sports news & results

Junior School sports news & results

What's coming up in Junior School

Events for Weeks 3 & 4

Events for Weeks 3 & 4

Week 3

Week 4

What's coming up in Senior School

Events for Weeks 3 & 4

Events for Weeks 3 & 4

Week 3

Week 4

Messages for Junior School

Uniform changes for Years 5-6

Uniform changes for Years 5-6

Save the Date - Music events for Junior School

Save the Date - Music events for Junior School

Save the Date - Junior School Presentation Day

Save the Date - Junior School Presentation Day

Messages for Senior School

Save the Date - Music events for Senior School

Save the Date - Music events for Senior School

Save the Date - Senior School Presentation Day

Save the Date - Senior School Presentation Day

Faculty Support Sessions - Term 4

Faculty Support Sessions - Term 4

Senior School Representative Sports Calendar & Nomination Guidelines – Term 4, 2024

Senior School Representative Sports Calendar & Nomination Guidelines – Term 4, 2024

College News & Announcements

Edumate offline Friday 25 October

Edumate offline Friday 25 October

Whooping cough in Junior School - Signs to look out for

Whooping cough in Junior School - Signs to look out for

2026 Scholarships

2026 Scholarships

College Shop trading hours - Reminder to new PreK, Kindergarten & Year 7 students

College Shop trading hours - Reminder to new PreK, Kindergarten & Year 7 students

P&F Spring Fair News

Saturday, 9 November - Save $10 on ride band pre-sale tickets; Volunteers & Donations urgently needed

Saturday, 9 November - Save $10 on ride band pre-sale tickets; Volunteers & Donations urgently needed

Thank you to our sponsors

Important Links & Resources

Parent and Carer Handbook

Parent and Carer Handbook

College Shop - Trading Hours, Uniform Fittings, Online Shop

College Shop - Trading Hours, Uniform Fittings, Online Shop

RHAC P&F

RHAC P&F