21 June 2024

By living out our faith authentically within community, we create a powerful testimony of our unity, compassion, and commitment to one another as we live in God's love and grace. This visible demonstration can inspire others to seek the same faith and fellowship, drawing them closer to the heart of God. Over the last few weeks there have been some wonderful opportunities to experience community at RJ; student to student, student to teacher, teacher to parent and parent to parent. 

As we sprint towards the end of the term with great speed, I am thrilled to reflect on the incredible events and achievements of the past two weeks and to share the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

Sibling Discounts Update

This week, a letter was sent out to our RJ families regarding the College Council’s decision to adjust sibling discounts over the next five years. While this change will affect some of our college families, please be assured that we remain committed to keeping our fees affordable for our local community and within the guidelines set by the Anglican Schools Corporation. We understand that any adjustment to fees can be challenging and we are here to support you through this transition. Your understanding and support are greatly appreciated as we make these necessary changes to ensure the sustainability and growth of our college.

Trivia Night Success

Our recent Trivia Night was a resounding success! It was heartening to see our community come together, enjoying a fun and engaging evening. With challenging questions, puzzle masters at work, lively banter and a spirit of friendly competition, the event was a fantastic way to foster community spirit. Events like these are a testament to the strong bonds and vibrant spirit within our RJ College family and we look forward to more opportunities to gather and celebrate together.

Winter Sleepout

Our Winter Sleepout event will run tonight with over 170 students from Years 6 to Year 12 taking part. This is a unique event that encourages students to assimilate for just one evening, the life of homeless youth in our city. Having soup for dinner and sleeping in the cold on only cardboard for comfort, adds to this meaningful experience. All monies raised through the event are forward to Youth Off The Streets to support the amazing work they do here in Sydney to look after homeless youth. The Winter Sleepout highlights our commitment to social responsibility and community service, reinforcing the values we hold dear at RJ.

Stage 3 Grandparents Day

Yesterday's Stage 3 Grandparents Day was a beautiful celebration of community and intergenerational bonds. It was wonderful to witness the joy and pride on our students' faces as they shared their school experiences with their grandparents in the classrooms. The event included performances, classroom visits, and morning tea that allowed grandparents to engage with their grandchildren’s education in a meaningful way. Such events enrich our college life and highlight the importance of family connections, making our community stronger and more united.

Upcoming Events

Looking ahead, we have a showcase of Junior School Public Speaking and Soloist Concerts from both Junior and Senior Schools next week. These types of events are essential aspects of our students' development, helping them build confidence and poise through public speaking and performance opportunities. Our students will have the opportunity to shine and demonstrate their talents in front of an appreciative audience and we look forward to celebrating their hard work and dedication with them. 

Cultural Celebrations

Our term will culminate in a vibrant cultural celebration in the Senior School with Heritage Festival Day on Thursday 4 July. The day will entail a colourful display of the diverse backgrounds that make up our college community with students and staff sharing and celebrating their cultural heritage through music, dance, food and traditional dress. Following this, we will gather for our K-12 Celebration Assembly on Friday 5 July as a fitting way to end a term filled with achievements and community spirit. These events provide a platform for us to acknowledge and honour the rich tapestry of cultures within our school, promoting inclusivity and mutual respect.

God Bless
Mr Alan Dawson | Principal 

This year we have had the privilege of having both the Senior School and Junior School Athletics Carnivals in the same week, one day after each other. That has made it both a very busy week as a Deputy Principal, but also a wonderful opportunity to see our students in another light, showing different strengths, aspects of their personalities and a sense of community and fun. Particular highlights for me are seeing the Eagles, Lions, Rams and Sharks in full voice during the House chant competition and the way the day culminates in the House relays. Here we have the joy of seeing the identity of our Houses shine through in their chants and the students working together in their House teams to run the best possible relay. 

But the 2024 Athletics Carnivals had something even more special, highlighted for me in two key events I witnessed. In particular races at both the Junior School carnival and the Senior School carnival we had competitors trip over during the race. This can be quite painful for the competitor, both in the physical pain of falling over and grazing yourself, but also the embarrassment of it feeling like everyone is watching. However, in both incidences something special happened that made me very proud to be part of RJ. In the Junior School carnival at the start of a long distance race, one of the competitors noticed that the student had fallen over. They immediately stopped, checking in on the student and forfeited any chance they had at potentially winning the race. This sense of care for the student superseding their desire to win the race was so touching and made me so appreciative of the students that we are blessed to have at RJ. 

On a similar note, the previous day at the Senior School Athletics Carnival, a student had fallen over during the relay. They were visibly shaken from the impact and from their distress at the situation. At that moment, not only did their fellow relay team member from their House support them, but the students from all houses came around to support them and help them from the track. Taking care of her and supporting her at this difficult time. Such kindness being a part of our community is so important in what the Bible calls the fruit of the spirit and should be something we should all aspire to demonstrate to others. In both the above cases there was no-one guiding the students to be supportive of their peer. It came naturally to them as the helpful and kind thing to do. 

We now look towards some wonderful events that help us conclude the term well. The Winter Sleepout happening this week, helps students engage with the realities of poverty and homelessness. The temperatures at the moment will certainly give students an appreciation of how challenging it must be for those that have to sleep rough. The term then concludes with Heritage Day in the final week. An incredibly important day that allows us to celebrate the many and varied cultures that make up our rich tapestry at RJ. Both events are a great opportunity for students to learn and engage with others through empathy and understanding. What great opportunities for our students to grow in their appreciation and to think outside of themselves.

Mr Scott Roby
Deputy Principal

STAGE 3 (YEARS 5-6) GRANDPARENTS’ DAY

Yesterday we welcomed Grandparents of our Years 5 and 6 students to the College for a special visit. Each class presented an item in the Courtyard, followed by some time in the classrooms and topped off with a delicious scones with jam and cream morning tea! We love having our College families come to visit ❤

COLLEGE ATTENDANCE 

As the Winter term is drawing to an end, we continue to have high levels of sickness and absenteeism. Please continue to monitor your child’s health and do not send them to school if coughing, sneezing or with a high temperature. That being said, we do encourage College attendance, and many children have missed days and weeks of school this semester – this can have an effect on progress, so if your child is well, please prioritise attendance. Holidays during term time will result in missed concepts and can affect social development with peers. Junior School teachers will not set work for students on holidays in term time.      

REPORTS AND PARENT/TEACHER INTERVIEWS

• Report distribution will be online – Thursday 4 July (Week 10) We will send electronic copies out to families uploaded to Edumate. Please contact your child’s Class Teacher if you require a printed version and are unable to organise this from home. Instructions on how to access online Reports will be emailed to you.

• Parent/Teacher interviews – Thursday 1 August and Tues 6 August (Term 3  - Weeks 1 and 2) 
Online bookings for interviews will be sent out in Week 10

COMING UP –

• Soloists Concert Tuesday 25 June after school in The AV room Senior Library the HUB

• Public Speaking Showcase Wednesday 26 June Junior School Courtyard 4pm

• Cool Cans Day Thursday 4 July (Week 10) to raise funds for Anglicare’s Take Love appeal. Students can wear cool colours mufti. Bring a gold coin donation and a tin of food for the hampers. Please check the 'use by' date before donating.

• Last day of Term 2 – Friday 5 July

• Term 3 commences Monday 29 July (return in Winter uniform)

Enjoy your weekend, 

Mrs Karen Shannon-Duhigg
Head of Junior School

The dates for CRU Blast are: Monday 22 July 2024 – Friday 26 July 2024 (third week of the holidays)

The registrations have commenced, and students have received a flyer. The link to register for the camp is: CRU Camp Registration

The QR Code will take you to the registration page.

We’d love to see your child/children at CRU Blast this year. If you have any questions, please contact Liam Johnston by email – [email protected]  

Mr Liam Johnston
Christian Ministry & Service Leader 

Use of Words

The impact the spoken word has on our friends and family can be quite powerful. We read in Proverbs 15 and also Proverbs 18 that our words can be either soothing or crushing to others, our words can build up or tear down. Our words reflect the value we place on those around us as well as the value we place on ourselves. It is always pleasing to hear students encouraging their friends, whether in the classroom or at the athletics carnival.

Some students at RJ have needed to be reminded of how a careless comment or poor attempt at humour can impact the listener. At times whether intentionally or by accident words shared between students have caused harm and have required both time and energy to either restore a friendship or at least the ability for the students to be amicable towards each other.  Our words reflect what we value, in fact in Luke 6:45 Jesus says that our words reflect our hearts. It is our hope and prayer that our students will strive to be caring and respectful to all around them, reflecting the College's values in what they say and do.

Attitude of Service

With the annual Winter Sleep Out taking place tonight, Friday 21 June, it is a great encouragement to see the number of students (and staff) willing to participate in this event. Many memories will be created during the sleepout, through the games, the shared meal, the unique experience of sleeping overnight at the College and the discussion about homelessness. Thank you to the parents/carers who allowed their children to attend, helping the College raise funds for the Youth of the Streets charity and allowing an act of service to take place in a unique way.

As students move from the earlier years of Senior School to Year 10 through to 12 I hope that they embrace an attitude of service towards others, engaging in the many opportunities to serve the RJ community and beyond. It would be disappointing for a student to look back at their time at RJ and regret not taking up the chance to participate in formal service events, like the sleepout or being part of the service team and also not taking up the chance to support the College community by engaging in co-curricular activities that are on offer. May our students be courageous in their choices, striving to both support and serve the College and beyond when the opportunities arise.

How to Get "In The Zone"

Commonly called “Being In The Zone”, the flow state is an experience that unleashes creativity and performance. When you're in flow, you might feel the following:

• Complete Concentration: Your focus is sharp, and you're fully engaged with the task at hand.

• Time Flies By: You lose track of time and become immersed in the activity, forgetting about the outside world.

• Effortless Productivity: You accomplish a lot without feeling like you're exerting much effort.

• Optimal Consciousness: Self-awareness fades, and you're fully present in the moment.

• Uninhibited Action: You feel a sense of liberation, where fears and mental blocks disappear, and you just do it!

When you're in the zone, you act, move, and create with a natural rhythm, undisturbed by negative self-talk or distractions.

To achieve this, you need a good balance between the challenge of the task and your skill level. Here are four key factors to consider:

1. Passion and Interest: When you're passionate about an activity, your interest and enjoyment naturally increase.

2. Appropriate Challenge: The task should be challenging enough to engage you but not so difficult that it becomes frustrating.

3. Skill-Set Alignment: Your skills should be well-matched to the task. A familiar activity with new milestones is ideal.

4. Emotional Balance: Avoid frustration by ensuring your skill level meets the challenge. Negative emotions can block flow.

Steps to Achieve on Your Skill Level

Depending on where you are in your skill development, you can take different steps:

1. Develop Your Skills: Continuously improve your abilities to meet the challenges you face. Practice, learn, and refine your techniques.

2. Take More Risks: Set higher challenges and higher stakes to push yourself further. This can help maintain your interest and drive.

Practical Tips for Senior School Students

Here are some additional tips to help you get into the flow state:

• Set Clear Goals: Knowing what you want to achieve can help you stay focused and motivated.

• Eliminate Distractions: Create a conducive environment for concentration by minimizing interruptions and distractions.

• Stay Positive: Cultivate a positive mindset and practice self-compassion. Remember, mistakes are part of the learning process.

• Use Breaks Wisely: Take regular breaks to rest and recharge. This helps maintain high levels of productivity and creativity.

By understanding and applying these principles, you can experience enhanced creativity, productivity, and overall satisfaction in your activities. Whether it's studying, sports, or a hobby, getting "in the zone" can transform your experience and results.

You and your parents can learn more about how to achieve your academic goals at www.studyskillshandbook.com.au by logging in with the details below and working through some of the units.

Our College's access details are: 

USER: [email protected]

PWD: success21

Mr Brad Maxwell
Head of Senior School

3-6 Athletics Carnival

We were blessed with glorious sunshine for our Junior School Athletics Carnival this year. The day got off to an outstanding start with numerous records set in the 1500m race. This year saw the inclusion of selected students from Year 2 to increase our 8 Year division. They had a wonderful time at the event.

More will be known in the coming week related to whom has made the zone carnival team. Students will be notified via the Sports board when all the results have been finalised.  A full list of the School Record and All Time records broken will be placed in the next RJ Review. The Zone Carnival will be held early in Term 3 on Monday 5 August at Blair Oval. Please put that date in your calendar if you are intending to come along and offer your child support on the day.

A special mention on the day must go to Phoebe C who was more concerned with another competitor who fell over and comforting her rather than finishing off her 800m race. We love seeing outstanding displays of sportsmanship where concern for our friends is on display. 

Thank you to all the parent volunteers who offered their service at the carnival to assist our students navigate their way around the track and complete various events. Thank you also to our amazing RJ staff for making the event run smoothly with assistance from our amazing NSW athletics officials.

Football Gala Day Finals

Our Stage 2 RJ girls had an outstanding day at the recent CSSA State Football Finals Gala Day. The girls managed to navigate their way out of their pool group with some outstanding goals, some fantastic defence and excellent enthusiasm. 

This was the first time that RJ made it to the semifinals of this competition and despite putting up a great effort, they narrowly went down 2-1 in their semifinal to the eventual champions on the day. Thankyou parents for coming along to support our girls!

Zone Athletics Carnival

As mentioned above, the Zone Athletics Carnival will be held early in Term 3 on Monday 5 August at Blair Oval, St Marys. Save the date if you are intending to support your child on the day or if you are able to offer assistance. Please note that you must have a WWCC to offer assistance at the carnival.

Mr Gavin Mitchell
Junior School Sports Leader

Students did extremely well competing in the various events, and data will be finalised to coordinate progressions to the Zone Athletics Carnival, to be held on Friday 2nd August (Week 1), at Blacktown International Sports Park. Stay tuned for more details.

On Tuesday Miss Roediger took our 15 and under girls netball team to the CSSA Secondary State Netball Gala Day. We were put in a very competitive pool, and our girls did RJ and themselves proud. Finishing third in their pool, with first and second in the pool going on to be in the Grand Final, what an achievement and success. Congratulations ladies.  

Our WSCS Soccer Teams have both progressed through to the Grand Final for their respective age groups, to be held this Tuesday 25th June. We think of these teams as they prepare and play their best on Tuesday.

Hassan H (Year 11) competed at the NSW CIS Cross Country Championships on Thursday 6th June. Hasan finished 49th in his age group, and is to be congratulated on his achievement! Well Done. 

Kiara F (Year 11) and Brigette W (Year 9) have both been selected to represent NSW CIS at the NSW All Schools Girls 18&U Football Championships, next Tuesday and Wednesday. This is an honour to have such high performing and achieving students represent themselves, our College, and the association. Congratulations ladies, and our thoughts will be with you next week! 

Edyn S (Year 7) competed at the Sydney Academy of Gymnastics Invitational last weekend, and won 2 gold medals for Beam and Bars. Edyn won her overall silver medal for achievements on the day. Congratulations Edyn!

Calvin T (Year 10) and Mia A (Year 10) both competed at the Nunawading Spectres Basketball Tournament in Melbourne last week. Calvin and his team took out the Championship in their division, Congratulations! And Mia and her team finished 5th in their division, Congratulations!

Please send through all sporting achievements to [email protected] so we can celebrate your success.

Mrs Trish Millard
Faculty Leader PDHPE & Sport