4 February 2020

We have warmly welcomed many new students and some staff: Primary – Head of Primary – Mrs Karen Shannon-Duhigg, Teacher – Mrs Emma Roe; Secondary Teachers – Mr Andrew Keane, Miss Vivian Ho, Miss Pearlin Paul; Support Staff – Ms Belinda Hunter, Mr David Madurai, Mr Rex Llamas.

Our commencement Assemblies focused on the School’s impressive namesake, Rev Richard Johnson, Chaplain for the First Fleet and Colony (232 years ago), and reinforced our Christian heritage and culture based on Biblical truth and faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ. The Bible verses (Isaiah 9:6-7) below magnified the wonderful majesty of Jesus:

“For to us a child is born,

To us a son is given.

He will be called Wonderful, Counsellor,

The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father,

The Prince of Peace.

There will be no end to his reign,

His kingdom of justice and mercy will last forever.”

The sovereignty of Jesus over all creation may be difficult to believe and accept during extreme personal challenges. However, by all accounts, Rev Richard Johnson maintained a daily trust in Jesus through his very trying circumstances, many seemingly insurmountable. Mrs Jenny Clay, Head of Secondary, is in the midst of facing cancer and will, in mid-March, undergo surgery. Her first round of chemotherapy has gone well and, following recuperation after surgery, she will have a second round of treatment. Mrs Clay will continue to share her role with Mrs Scrimshaw, for the short-term. Mrs Clay firmly believes in the grace and power of her Saviour, Jesus. Whilst we will enjoy Mrs Clay’s presence for limited times during Terms 1 and 2, we can pray for her full recovery and healing. Let’s trust in the Lord as strongly as her.

Significant hardships have also come in the form of bushfires. Many Australian towns/communities have suffered severe fire devastation, especially throughout NSW. In fact, fire dangers will continue during the next couple of months. One situation which triggered the concern and compassion of staff and student leadership recently was the experience of St Peters Anglican College, Broulee, which had facilities (some classrooms and admin building) destroyed by fire, including playground and landscaping, as well as the remaining buildings severely smoke damaged. Also, the families of thirty (30) students had homes destroyed, with some losing both houses and businesses. RJ Student Forums have decided to ask everyone to generously donate money during this week as a special RJ Appeal, with a focus in our Assemblies/Chapel this Friday to encourage students/classes to compile cards, special messages. We want to reach out to the St Peter’s community in these ways ie. financially and emotionally. Please offer whatever support you are able. Thank you.

During the latter part of 2019 we undertook a number of capital works projects, most of which have been completed. The Oakhurst Primary Hive and Studio refurbishments have achieved tremendous outcomes and were greatly enjoyed by everyone last week, including parents, grandparents who were keen to visit – the feedback was very complimentary. As well, all the Block H classrooms and learning support rooms were refreshed. At Marsden Park, several new classrooms, new playground and landscaping, new turf on the sports field and new substation have provided significant improvements. Two projects at Oakhurst currently under construction and scheduled for completion towards the end of this Term are the Block E Drama/Performance Space and the Changerooms/Toilets. We are grateful for the necessary resources to complete these important projects.

During coming weeks wonderful opportunities have been planned to bring staff and parents together for various Information Meetings, with the main goal of facilitating crucial communication and understanding within the complexities of our School community. Please make sure you attend. We are thankful for all in our School who constantly share an optimistic outlook and who do what they can to help achieve the School’s stated intentions.

To assist parents with the School’s procedures for enquiring about student-related matters, the document titled Lines of Communication 2020is highlighted for everyone’s attention and use. Please ensure that this written guide is followed.

We are pleased to announce that, following considerable pressure from the School, Busways has just confirmed a new School bus service from 17 February, morning and afternoon, commencing from Alderton Drive in Colebee, through Stonecutters Drive and Symonds Road to RJ via Glendenning. Our students are encouraged to use this new service and, as a result, we will be able to wind back the provision of the RJ Bus through those areas, to save duplication of services. 

Coming up soon is the first Parents’ and Friends’ Association Meeting and every parent is most welcome to attend. The P&F Assoc. is a good way of discovering the latest news and finding out how best to practically participate in the life of the School. We thank the P&F Assoc. for their contribution of 32 Primary laptops and additional Primary and Secondary STEM resources (BlueBots, Spheros, Dash&Dots, Lego STEM construction, Laser engraver/cutter, 3D Colour printer), as well as at Marsden Park, 4 outdoor seating sets and playground resources.

Mr Paul Cockrem
Principal

With quite a few events happening in the next couple of weeks, it will also be necessary to take note of information being sent home from the School. Some of the events include our Years 3-12 Swimming Carnival, Years 5 & 6 Camps (from Feb 10), Year 11 Study Camp (Feb 13-14), Year 7 Camp (Feb 19-21) and Year 7 Immunisations (Feb 13). We also have Parent Information Evenings across our two Campuses that we encourage parents to attend. And in the case of Secondary Information Evenings, students in those Stages should attend with their parents.

SWIMMING CARNIVAL

House Meetings were held in the first week to ensure that Houses are prepared for the upcoming Years 3-12 Swimming Carnival this week. The Years 3-12 students will be in action on Thursday 6 February at the Mt Druitt Swimming Centre. Eagles (Green) will be keen to make a good start this year after winning the Overall House Championship in 2019 but the other three Houses (Lions – Yellow, Rams – Purple, and Sharks – Red), will be just as keen to show them that they are up for the challenge.

The Swimming Carnival is a normal school day and all students are expected to attend the Carnival irrespective of whether they swim or not. This event is not an optional event. Student attendance will be recorded. Novelty events will be provided throughout the day so non-competing students can stay cool and still earn points for their House. All students are required to remain at the Carnival until the end of the event.

With the weather forecast being rain on Thursday, please stay tuned as to final arrangements for the Swimming Carnival.

EXPECTATIONS & UNIFORMS

Without exception, Richard Johnson is a School that has high expectations of our students and staff alike.The reputation of our School rests with all of us. This is exemplified by the way in which we take pride in how we look, walk, talk and interact with each other. Our School Uniform and Presentation Policy can be accessed on the General Resources page of our website or you can read it from the Secondary diary on pages 136-137. This includes our expectations as a School around students’ hair styles and lengths, jewellery (particularly girls’ earrings), the wearing of a hat whilst moving around the Campus, particularly in the summer months, as well as greeting staff and guests in the School. Our expectations around the use of IT in the School is spelled out clearly in the diary (refer to pages 141-144).

One of the expectations of our Secondary students is that they develop good study habits very early on. This involves completing homework tasks each night and having their parents sign their diary on the weekend. This is then checked by their Home Group teacher. Finding a space at home in which they can do homework and study on a daily basis, which is also well lit and equipped with the materials they require, is also vitally important. Setting up a study timetable which includes time set aside for social interactions with friends, chores around the home, work commitments or sporting and musical pursuits assists the students to manage their time well.

DIARIES 

Our Secondary Diary contains School events and special days relevant to Secondary students, as well as a designated column where students are asked to write in their timetable for the day so homework can be written alongside.

Parents are asked to sign on page 1 of the diary to confirm acknowledgement that their child has received the diary from the School. A parent is also required to sign the diary each week, so that the School is aware of issues being communicated by staff about their child. There is a space each week for parents to make any short comment/query as well.

Parents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the information in the blue sections of the diary. Important matters are covered in this section of the diary and everyone benefits when the parents are fully aware of what is expected of the students.

IMMUNISATIONS – YEAR 7

Just a reminder that all Year 7 students have been given a package of information concerning free vaccinations provided by NSW Health. Parents/Carers need to read through the package and complete the necessary consent forms and return via the Student Reception. The first dose of vaccinations will occur on Thursday 13 February.

Here’s to a fantastic year of learning ahead for all of us. If you ever have a question or a query, please ensure you contact our School Office and they will direct you to the best person to answer your query.

Mr Alan Dawson,
Deputy Principal

The beginning of Term Parent Information Note is available on the website in the general resources section.

THE HIVE AND THE STUDIO

Mr Cockrem has enjoyed leading tours of our innovative new teaching and learning spaces – The Hive and The Studio. The students have been excited to commence Library, Music, STEM and Drama lessons in these purpose-built facilities. The opportunity to be immersed in tasks within these well-resourced spaces will add to our students’ overall engagement levels and love of learning.

ASSEMBLIES

Students from Years 2 to 6 enjoyed a combined Assembly with the Secondary Section last Friday to celebrate Richard Johnson Day. We were reminded of the great Christian legacy left by the namesake of our School in the first Bible preaching, commencement of educational facilities and the building of a Church in the new colony. Year 5 entertained us with a reprise of their ‘Supercalifragalisticexpialodocious’ item from Presentation Night last year.

Parents of the presenting class are most welcome to join us for our Primary Assemblies each week. Our theme for this term is ‘In the Beginning – Genesis.'  We will look at some of the major stories from the book of Genesis that demonstrate God’s power, righteousness and love for His people. Please refer to the Parent Information note for classes presenting at Primary Assemblies each Friday at 9:10am in the Hall. All students in Year 3 and new students in Years 4-6 will be presented with a Bible in Assembly in Week 3 – Friday 14 February.

STUDENT FORUM AND BUSHFIRE ASSISTANCE

Two students from the Year groups 4-6 have been elected by their peers to be representatives on the Student Forum in 2020. We congratulate Lucia Papa, Aidan McLeod, Joshua Ewen, Laylah Golden, Isabel Papa and Calvin Totaan-Imbag. The team and I met with Secondary leaders and Mr Cockrem to discuss initiatives to help support St Peter’s Anglican College in Broulee, which is near Bateman’s Bay, that was affected by the recent bushfires. Money boxes will be placed around the Campus this week for donations, there will be a sausage sizzle at Thursday’s Swimming Carnival and Friday 8 February will be ‘Fiver for a Friend’ day to collect more funds that will go immediately to assist St Peter’s. Primary classes will also have the opportunity to pray for and write cards or letters of support to the junior students at Broulee. These are wonderful service opportunities for RJ students.

PRIMARY INFORMATION EVENINGS

It was great to see so many of you at our information sessions on Monday evening and we hope any questions were answered and you were provided with a general outline of the coming year for your child. There will be Parent/Teacher Interviews later this term to discuss your child’s progress.

MOBILE PHONES

Primary students who bring a mobile phone to School must hand it in at Primary Reception in the morning and collect it at the end of the school day or leave it turned off in their bags. Primary students found using a mobile phone on School grounds will have it confiscated and parents will be notified to collect the phone from Reception. The School does not accept any liability for lost or stolen phones brought to School.

SWIMMING CARNIVAL

We are looking forward to a great day at the Years 3-12 Swimming Carnival this coming Thursday, 6 February at Mount Druitt Pool starting at 8:15am. Students need to remain at the Carnival through to its conclusion – not signed out early by parents. The Swimming Carnival is our students’ first major sporting event to show support and team spirit for their House. We hope many parents can join us on this day.

YEARS 5 AND 6 CAMP

Oakhurst Stage 3 students will be joining with the Stage 3 Marsden Park students for the annual Teen Ranch Camp in Week 3. Years 5 and 6 benefit greatly by attending this outdoor recreational camp.

SPONSOR CHILDREN

Each grade (K – 6) has been linked with a sponsor child from the New Creation Children’s Home in Kathmandu, Nepal. Each student is asked to bring in $1-$2 per month to contribute to supporting their sponsor child. The children also enjoy writing and receiving letters to one another throughout the year. We thank you for your support of this important ministry.

MATHS GROUPS

Grouping in Mathematics is changeable year to year, depending on student needs. In 2020, Years 3-6 students will be placed into ability groups for Mathematics. This allows for more intensive and tailored instruction where students at similar levels can access content at a pace most beneficial for their understanding, with similar curriculum outcomes covered in all groups.

Mrs Karen Shannon-Duhigg
Head of Primary Oakhurst 

The Term 1 Parent Information Note is available in the resources section on the School website, as is the Stationery Order for students in Years 3-6. If you have not familiarised yourself with these documents please do so as they provide valuable information for a successful year.

We appreciate your ongoing prayers for our School and Marsden Park Campus throughout 2020.

ASSEMBLY

In Primary Assembly this term, we will be going back to creation and looking at significant stories from the book of Genesis. In Genesis 1:1 we read, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth”. Colossians 1:16 reminds us, “For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him.” What a great way to start our new year, knowing who our great God is and reflecting on His authority in our world.

The Parent Information Note outlines classes presenting throughout the term. Parents of the presenting class are warmly welcome to attend Primary Assemblies, commencing at 9:00am in the middle of Block A. All students in Year 3 and new students from Years 4-6 will be presented with a Bible in Assembly on Thursday 20 February.

CLASS NAME CHANGE 

Due to new student enrolments, please note that 3M is now a 3/4 class and will be known as 3/4M.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES

As our Campus size increases, during lunchtimes students will have opportunities to participate in choir (Yrs 1-6), dance (2-6), chess (2-6), debating (5-6), library lunch and Lego and our newly named KFC - Kids for Christ Christian Club (1-6). Staff generously give their break times to provide these opportunities for students.

FIRE RELIEF FUNDRAISER

RJ is supporting St Peter’s Anglican College in Broulee on the NSW South Coast. This school lost buildings and play spaces through fire over the summer. Marsden Park Student Forum will be collecting money “Fire Funds” each morning in Week 2 to send to St Peter’s as well as providing an update on this school and our fundraising in our morning Assembly on Friday. Please send along some money with your child as you feel appropriate to support this School community. Students will be preparing cards of support for students to sign to send to encourage the students at St Peter’s. A barbeque will be available to also raise funds at the 3-12 Swimming Carnival so send your child along with a few dollars to purchase a sausage sizzle on this day.

JUMP ROPE FOR HEART

Primary students (K-6) will be participating in Jump Rope for Heart again this year. Students are already busily turning ropes during break times. We look forward to your support of this worthy cause. Further details will be provided in coming weeks by Mr Mitchell, Primary Sport Coordinator.

PRIMARY INFORMATION EVENINGS

A Parent Information Evening will be held for Marsden Park families this evening, Tuesday 4 February, commencing in the COLA at 6:30pm. Please come along to hear information about our School year.

SPONSOR CHILDREN

Our Campus supports a sponsor child, Ashish Tamang, from the New Creation Children’s Home in Kathmandu, Nepal. Ashish is 12 years old. We have sponsored him since he was 8. Each student is asked to bring $1-2 per month to contribute to supporting this child and the orphanage. We thank you for your support of this important ministry.

STUDENT FORUM

Congratulations to Titi Taiwo and Jade Potter who were nominated for Student Forum. Titi and Jade will join the Primary Captain and Primary House Captains to represent our Campus in 2020.

SWIMMING CARNIVAL – YEARS 3-12

The Years 3-12 School Swimming Carnival will be held this Thursday 6 February at Mt Druitt Pool. Students remain at the Carnival through to its conclusion. The Swimming Carnival encourages House team involvement and support. We look forward to seeing you there to cheer on your child and their House.

YEAR 5 AND 6 CAMP

Our Year 5 and 6 students will be heading to Teen Ranch in Week 3. All notes should be returned. The students and teachers are looking forward to this outdoor recreation camp.

UNIFORM

Our students look wonderful in their School Uniforms, however, in Week 1 some items were not consistent with the “School Uniform and Student Presentation Policy”. Parents are reminded to adhere to the Policy at all times. Please note in particular:

• Hairs styles may not involve significant differences in the length of hair. No shaved hair or below size 2 clippers. Hair should not fall across the face or eyes.

• Boys: No jewellery except for a watch.

• Girls: Earrings are to be plain gold or silver stud/small sleeper earrings only. Necklaces or bangles are not permitted. Only clear nail polish may be used. A watch may be worn.

It is essential that all Uniform items are clearly labeled so they can be quickly returned to students.

Mrs Narelle Taylor
Assistant Principal/Head of Primary Marsden Park 

Each week, teachers set tasks for students to complete. Each task focuses on one topic in mathematics. These tasks usually need to be completed before students can access other Mathletics activities. Students aim to achieve 85% when completing tasks. Encouraging students to achieve 85% encourages mastery of knowledge and provides for sustained practice of knowledge and skills.

Once set tasks are completed, students are encouraged to continue using Mathletics to develop their mathematical skills. Students can:

• Reattempt a task – look for tasks that have a red or orange bar next to them. This indicates a result of less than 85% for the task. To reattempt a task click on the learn button, click on the topic and click on the activity.
• Participate in Mathletics Live – Students compete against other students in a timed quiz that rewards speed and accuracy.
• Maths Apps and Games – Students can select from a range of apps and games that encourage development of mathematical skills and problem solving.

Students receive points for correct responses and bonus points for achieving improved scores in a task. Awards are presented each term to encourage high-performing students and classes.

Each week, students will have a Mathletics lesson where they complete Mathletics tasks with the support of their classroom teacher. We also encourage students to participate in Mathletics at home. Mathletics can be accessed at home by going to www.mathletics.com or by using the free Mathletics app available from iTunes or Google Play. Students will need their login details which will be provided by their class teacher this week. Please contact your child’s teacher or email Mr Reed mreed@rjas.nsw.edu.au if you are having any difficulties accessing Mathletics at home. 

Mr Michael Reed
Primary Coordinator 

Parent sign-up notes will be sent out this week with instructions on how to access your child’s Digital Portfolio. Parents that were connected to their child's account last year are granted automatic access to the new class their child is enrolled in. Please contact your child’s teacher or email Mr Reed mreed@rjas.nsw.edu.au if you are having any difficulties accessing your child’s Digital Portfolio.

We strongly encourage you to sign-up with Seesaw and take the time to look at your child’s work and discuss their learning.

Mr Michael Reed 
Primary Coordinator 

One of the biggest changes has been in the introduction of our BYOD program, and the integration of technology in everyday lessons. The introduction of CANVAS and the Microsoft suite of products, and the Edumate Portal for students and parents, has benefitted our School community in many ways and we are constantly striving to further improve the way we deliver learning materials so that students are engaged and involved with all that is taking place. That’s been particularly exciting, but also just looking back and seeing the way that Service Learning, under Mr Rowe’s guidance, and School Leadership opportunities, with Mr Dawson, have given opportunities for students to develop as “people” – to take responsibility, to thrive and grow as individuals and become the person that God created them to be – this is one of the things we wanted for our students. If we were involved as teachers in sending them out into the world, what values and characteristics did we want them to reflect? In a world which is often centred on itself, how could we promote a servant heart? I find there is a great generosity of spirit amongst so many of our students, which importantly underlines what they are also learning at home, and why the partnership between home and School is vital to any young person’s development. Let’s keep that communication and openness happening, for everyone’s benefit in 2020.

Before writing this article I looked back over my last piece from 2019. We had just had the Year 12 Formal and I knew how much this group were now looking forward to “life beyond School”. They have now received their results and at this stage, 73% of eligible students have received offers for undergraduate courses at various universities, in a range of fields – Optometry, Engineering, Education, Nursing and Cybersecurity, to name a few. Others have joined the workforce or are pursuing TAFE qualifications. In 2020, our 14^th cohort will graduate from Year 12, and it will be just as exciting for them to pursue their goals and ambitions, as it has been for every other year!

This Wednesday evening, we begin our Information Evenings, just to make sure everyone has the same details about policies and procedures, and also as an opportunity for families new to the School to meet other parents and put some faces to teachers' names. All evening meetings commence at 6:30pm in the Hall.

Year 11 students are reminded of the urgency of returning their Study Camp permission notes this week – parents will be asked to complete them on Wednesday evening if not already done so. Camp runs overnight at Stanwell Tops from 13-14 February and all students are expected to attend.

One of the other things I wrote in my last article was “We can make plans, but God directs our path”. This was the day before I received a health diagnosis I wasn’t expecting, and it certainly changed for me and my family what happened over the holidays. I still read many books – Karen Swallow Prior’s biography of the writer, abolitionist and founder of Sunday Schools, Hannah More (Fierce Convictions) was particularly inspiring. I was also challenged by David Mansfield’s collection of reflections on the life of Sydney evangelist and preacher John Chapman. I gained, however, my greatest comfort in the word of God and was grateful of how these truths had been embedded in my life through teaching and song by the many faithful Christians I have encountered over the years. I have had four rounds of chemotherapy and will have surgery soon – a situation that I know is not unfamiliar with many families in our School, and the prognosis varies for each of us. At this point in time, God has given me a path which I know He walks with me. I would encourage you to read Romans 8, and I remain assured that “neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, or anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (verses 38-39)

Mrs Jenny Clay
Assistant Principal/Head of Secondary

Entry Forms are available from: Student Reception, Home Group Teachers, English Teachers.

Trials will be held in weeks 6- 8 of Term 1. English Teachers will post a list of trial session times on the door of B Block Staffroom for the trials at lunchtime. English Staff will then select the finalists who will present their speech at the Secondary TALKFEST FINALS Showcase Evening on Monday 18 May 2020 at 6:30pm.

House Points will be awarded for participants and you also have your participation acknowledged as an extra-curricular activity on your reports!

Collect your entry form today, submit the entry form to your English teacher, write the speech and present your speech during week 6 of Term 1. 

Mrs Annette Sicard
Secondary Teacher

It was wonderful to see our students sharing the joy of the festive season with our community in this way.

Mrs Annette Sicard
Secondary Teacher

Our roles mostly include:

• In-class support 
• Support with assessments (mostly to get started and accountability) 
• Reading assessments – YARC (York Assessment of Reading Comprehension) 
• IPs (Independent Plans)/ITPs (Independent Transition Plans)
• Disability Provisions for examinations and in-class assessment tasks
• Learning Centre (B9) and Study@The Hub and B4

However, if you do have any concerns consult with your child’s subject teacher in the first instance and they will ascertain what help may be required.

If you would like further information about any other Learning Support matter, please feel free to contact me at the School or email klyons@rjas.nsw.edu.au.

Study@The Hub and B4

Students are invited to make use of both the lunch time and afternoon sessions. Students can attend and work on their homework, assessment tasks or revise their past work. Students do not need to book in, just turn up with a willingness to work. Staff are available to assist and give guidance. The lunch time sessions are on Monday, Thursday and Friday during the second half of lunch in B4. The afternoon sessions run from 3:30 – 4:30 every day in The Hub. Please note that this is for Secondary students only and usual School expectations apply.

Mrs Kerrie Lyons
Learning Support Co-ordinator (7-12)

Both parents and students are encouraged to attend their relevant Information Evening, with Year 11 on Wednesday 5 Feb (Week 2), Years 7 and 8 on Wednesday 12 Feb (Week 3), Years 9 and 10 on Wednesday 26 Feb (Week 5). This is a great opportunity to meet the teaching staff, access information relevant to your child’s Year, including their Camp, as well as providing you the opportunity to ask questions.

Below are expectations for every Secondary student regarding morning arrival and using the School provided lock and locker. It is recommended that both parents and their children read through and are aware of these expectations.

PUNCTUALITY  

To help students start each day well please ensure that they arrive before the start of Period One, 8:30am. It is expected by this time students are lined up, fully equipped, ready to enter their first lesson of the day. Students who arrive close to or after 8:30am are late to class which interrupts the lessons that have already commenced.

LOCKERS

Each year students are reminded of the expectations around operating a School locker. The following rules pertaining to lockers are important for the smooth operation of the School and we ask all parents and students to read through the guidelines and abide by them:

• The students must use the locker allocated to them. They are not to swap lockers with anyone else. If there is a good reason why a student has an issue with the locker which he/she has been allocated, they are to approach their Welfare Coordinator and give him/her a written explanation of the problem. The Coordinator will then consider the matter and may give the student permission to change lockers. Only then may the student use a different locker.
• The student must use the lock provided by the school. Locks from home have, in the past, needed to be sawn off when keys were lost or combinations were forgotten. Students trying to use their own lock run the risk of it being removed. Students who have problems with the School lock which was issued to them must see their Coordinator and explain the problem.
• Students who lose their locks or deliberately damage their lock will be issued a replacement lock and $20 added to their School account.
• Students must keep their bags etc inside the locker. No bags or books should be left lying around anywhere in the school. Bags are not to be taken to class.
• Students need to keep their lockers locked at all times. Lockers left unlocked will be secured by staff members.
• Students may not share lockers with others.
• Students may not open or attempt to open any other student’s locker.
• Students should not congregate near lockers. They should use their locker and then move away to allow other students to access their own lockers.
• Students may only visit lockers before school from 8:00am-8:30am, then during Recess, during Lunch and after school from 3:20pm. Students should always take enough equipment for the following two periods.
• Students may bring mobile telephones to School, but they must be switched off and kept in their locked locker throughout the school day, Recess and Lunch included.
• Students should secure personal laptops in their lockers during Recess and Lunch. 

On Thursday, we have the annual RJAS 3 – 12 Swimming Carnival. It is being held at Mt Druitt Swimming Centre this year. It is a great venue and I am looking forward to the day. As we are trying to limit the amount of paper, the Swimming Program is posted on the RJAS Website. Also, with the forecast for Thursday please make sure that you keep up to date by checking the RJAS Website on Thursday morning. Alternative arrangements may be needed for the day.

There are many opportunities for our students to compete in Gala Days, Trials or other sporting events this year. I would ask that parents/carers and students keep a look out on the following websites for upcoming events:

• CSSA: www.cssa.net.au
• CIS: https://www.cis.nsw.edu.au/home/

I am looking forward to the year and reporting about student achievements regularly.

Mr David Hyde
Secondary Sports Coordinator

What is your favourite food?

Cinnamon scrolls.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Walking our 2 cavoodles, playing the piano and bubble baths.

When and why did you come to work at this School?

Commencing in January 2020, I am excited at the opportunity to lead a vibrant, Christ-centred Primary School.

What do you think you will enjoy about your role in the School?

Being part of a dynamic learning community and working alongside dedicated staff.

Describe a wonderful experience you’ve had which you will never forget.

During a family holiday in Hawaii while stand-up paddle boarding – 2 enormous sea turtles swam towards me then right by me – so close I could touch them!

Why did you become a Christian?

I was fortunate to grow up going to Sunday School and being part of a strong Bible-based evangelical Church where I was surrounded by wonderful role models, great teaching and was prayed for. As I learnt the enormity of grace and marvelled at God’s creation – I knew this was what made life make sense and committed myself to Jesus.

What is your favourite bible verse and why?

Zephaniah 3:17 – ‘The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will rejoice over you with singing’. I love that this verse reflects the many aspects of God – His power, His love, His care for us. I love singing songs of praise to God but this verse says He will rejoice over us with song – how amazing!

What is something you want to achieve?

Learn to tap dance!

If you could meet any person in the world at the moment who would it be and why?

Sting – musician. I admire his lyricism and song writing prowess. I’d love to sing with him!

What is your favourite food?

Spicy Mexican food.  

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Camping with my wife, playing football and watching movies.  

When and why did you come to work at this School?

I trust the vision of the School and feel I can play a strong role in supporting it. 

What do you think you will enjoy about your role in the School?

Bringing my lived experiences and educational background into each of my classes and seeing student minds activated and broadened.  

Describe a wonderful experience you’ve had which you will never forget.

Cycling around Kyoto with my wife during Autumn.  

Why did you become a Christian?

I grew up in a Christian home, but I became a Christian much later after I heard and experienced the Gospel in a fresh and deeply personal way.  

What is your favourite bible verse and why?

Colossians 3:1 – For me it is a daily reminder to direct my heart towards the things unseen.  

What is something you want to achieve?

I’d like to someday build a home for my family.  

If you could meet any person in the world at the moment who would it be and why?

Jurgen Klopp! The current manager for Liverpool FC. He is a fantastic leader and has a unique energy for galvanising people and creating healthy teams.