30 March 2021

 “The quality of the performance given tonight was extraordinary, and the talent and dedication displayed by the cast and crew is truly a credit to the school. I am struck by the production quality and the successful combination of technology, choreography, musicianship and vocal performance. Dreams once unattainable are now being achieved. I am intensely proud, as an 'old boy,' to see my alma mater not diminishing but flourishing, growing from strength to strength as the years go by”.  

“I brought my mum, daughter and wife Wednesday night with me and they absolutely adored it! My mum is a church organist - she was so impressed with the live band”. 

“What an amazing performance which exemplified skill and such professionalism that is so far above a High School level. You guys are amazing and I can’t put into words how grateful I am as a parent, to have my daughter a part of such an incredible event. She has absolutely loved every minute of it”. 

“Wow, wow, wow!!! This was simply amaaazing!”

Congratulations to all those involved who made this dream come alive. 

This week we host the Primary Public Speaking Finals both at Oakhurst last night (Monday 29 March) and Marsden Park (Wednesday 31 March) for our Primary students. These nights are always a fantastic showcase of our young talent as some of them speak in front of a larger audience for the first time. Thank you to our School Vice Captains for adjudicating this event.

At the 2020 Secondary Presentation Evening and Farewell to our Foundation Principal, Mr Cockrem, the School Council Chairman Rev David Mears announced the naming of the new Senior Learning Centre – The Paul Cockrem Senior Learning Centre. 

During the Easter Break, we will be installing two portable classroom units near the School sports fields to provide replacement learning spaces for our students during the construction phase of our new Senior Learning Centre which will integrate with the upper level classrooms in Block C. Construction will commence during Term 2 and should be completed for the start of the new 2022 academic year. In our first edition of the RJ Review in Term 2, I will share some more images of the interior of the new building.

As we approach the Easter weekend, may I encourage each family to consider the significance of the Easter message to each of our lives. While at Christmas we celebrate the gift of God’s son Jesus, at Easter we remember the sacrifice He gave in order for us to have life everlasting as He allowed His son to innocently die on a cross alongside criminals, be buried in a borrowed tomb and rise again and ascend into heaven. 

Easter means something much more than just forgiveness. It means that we too can come to the same “resurrection life” that Jesus lived. This is the new life that comes from putting to death our old life, which is the sin that dwells in our human nature. 

To believe fully in Jesus Christ and His resurrection is to believe in the work that took place in His body here on earth, when He destroyed in His mortal body everything that was in conflict with God’s will and His Word. He was obedient unto death, every day of His life, and completed the work on Calvary when He cried, “It is finished!” At that moment, all of the indwelling sin in His human nature had been defeated and the way back to the Father was opened up for all mankind.

May you and your family have a safe and holy Easter holiday break.

Mr Alan Dawson
Principal (Acting)

We see so much of that happening amongst our students already – over $800 was raised from the Bullying No Way! Mufti Day donations and the purchase of spider drinks (Secondary). Primary students have raised an enormous total of over $14,000 through sponsorship for Jump Rope for Heart – this is incredible generosity on the part of the School community. Next week our Cross Country focuses on Run4Bibles - $7 will purchase a Bible for a student in South Africa.

We are called to ‘love our neighbour’ and these generous gifts are a way of sharing our blessings with others, so that good will come for other people. Easter is a timely reminder of the greatest gift we have all been given – the offer of eternal life if we trust in Jesus. His death and resurrection have made a way back to relationship with God possible. Our Easter Chapels have each focused on this wonderful message.

At the start of Term 2, it will be optional until Mother’s Day as to whether students wear Summer or Winter Uniform. The change back will occur after Father’s Day in September. This is an easy and helpful way to remember when the “official” switch in uniforms occurs. The holidays will be a great time for students to acquire new pieces of uniform. I suspect the grey slacks for Secondary girls and navy slacks in Primary will be very popular, especially as the weather gets colder. Remember though, these items are optional and formal uniform will be required for School photos in May.

Cross Country tomorrow will be an event that parents can attend as spectators. All parents will need to sign in at the check-in desk at Hanna Reserve and be given a coloured sticker, so that staff who are on supervision can easily identify parents who are present. Social distancing and good hand hygiene should still be observed between adults. Hand sanitiser will be available at the check-in and recording desks. The QR code used, links to our WoLi system (Who’s on Location) and records (if requested) are downloaded from there. All records are required to be kept for 28 days.

Finally, a huge thank you to all students and staff who were involved in our Secondary Musical. It was an amazing production, made even more unique by the involvement of Primary students in the Children’s Choir. If we continue with our biennial productions, some of these students will have the opportunity to perform in at least four stage shows while at RJ. Even more for those who started participating in the mammoth Primary productions some years ago! That would be an incredible commitment of time and energy – not just from students, but from families as well. Many have “lived” Joseph for the last six months!

Have a safe and healthy Easter break. We proclaim triumphantly Christ is risen – He is risen indeed!

Mrs Jenny Clay
Deputy Principal (Acting) 

BANDAGED BEAR DAY

Our Bandaged Bear Day in Week 8 was lots of fun with many furry friends of varied shapes and sizes sharing the day with us. The students enjoyed the Bear-themed activities at lunchtime and $2,135.90 was raised for the Children's Hospital at Westmead. Great work everyone and special thanks to Mrs McCormick for her organisation of the day. 

PRIMARY GRIP LEADERSHIP DAY

Primary leaders from Oakhurst and Marsden Park braved the wet weather to attend the GRIP Primary Student Leadership Conference at Sydney Olympic Park accompanied by Mr Reed. The conference goal for 2021 is to lead with responsibility and to be ready when it’s time to lead. It was an excellent opportunity for our students to develop their gifts as confident leaders. Students enjoyed sharing their experiences as leaders with others including Anjali having the opportunity to share about our Kindy Buddy program with the conference. Students gained many new ideas from presenters and other schools which we look forward to sharing with Student Forum. 

"It was helpful to learn that everyone has talents, but not everyone has every talent." Jonah Rams House Captain

"I learnt that it is important to know when it is time to be a leader and to be ready for opportunities." Mekail Eagles House Leader

"I enjoyed meeting leaders from other schools and sharing ideas that we could hopefully use back at RJ." Aisha Primary Vice-Captain

PUBLIC SPEAKING FINALS

Last night the final round of the Public Speaking Competition was held in the School Hall. The standard was very high and we were treated to a range of expository topics with many convincing arguments. Congratulations to the following students who received awards last night:

• Stage 1 - Jemma F and Veeshaye S
• Stage 2 - Kai G and Ezekiel S
• Stage 3 - Hope G and Anjali N

MUSICAL PRODUCTION – JOSEPH AND THE TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT

A massive congratulations to the whole cast and crew of the School Musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. This was a wonderful production. A special acknowledgement to our Primary performers who were part of the Children’s Chorus – Anjali N, Rebecca S, Liliana S, Nicholas S, Jonathan P and Sam R. You were amazing! Also special mention to our own wonderful Primary Music teacher, Miss S-D who was the show’s choreographer. Sensational!

3-6 CROSS COUNTRY 

The Years 3–12 Cross Country will be held this week on Wednesday 31 March at Hanna Reserve, Oakhurst. The students will compete in the morning and be back at School for recess. Parents are welcome to observe at Hanna Reserve.

JUMP OFF DAY

This Thursday, 1 April, our last day of term, will be the culmination of our Jump Rope for Heart work this term. The students have all improved greatly with their skipping skills and RJ has currently raised over $14,000! Amazing! We are looking forward to each grade showing off their abilities on Thursday. Parents do not attend this event.

SCHOOL MEDICATIONS AND EXPIRY DATES

A reminder from our Reception/First Aid team in Primary to keep medications stored at School up to date. This includes Ventolin puffers and Anaphylaxis autoinjectors. You will be contacted to replace any medications that are past their expiry dates. Please remember that asthma and anaphylaxis plans must also be updated annually by your GP. A number of students have had vomiting bugs recently. RJ follows the NSW Government Health guidelines which state that students who vomit at School must be kept at home for a minimum of 24 hours.

EASTER ASSEMBLY LIONS HOUSE

A big thank you to the students in Lions House who presented our Easter Assembly last week. Through songs and skits we were reminded of the true meaning of Easter and why this holiday is such a special one for God’s people.

I wish every RJ Oakhurst Primary family a happy and blessed Easter and a safe holiday time.

Mrs Karen Shannon-Duhigg
Head of Primary - Oakhurst

BANDAGED BEAR DAY

Our Campus raised a total of $1251.20 was raised for Bandaged Bear Day. Thank you to our school community for your incredible generosity and support of Bandaged Bear Day. 

BULLYING – NO WAY! DAY

The message portrayed to students during our very bright and colourful ‘Bullying – No Way! Day’ in Week 8 was ‘Stop! Go Tell’. We live in a sinful world where people will inevitably be unkind to one another from time to time. This includes children. Instead of retaliating, we want students to directly say ‘Stop!’ if someone is saying or doing something unkind or that they do not like. If they don’t stop, then the student is encouraged to ‘Go’ and ‘Tell’ a teacher or grown up who can help. The ‘Stop! Go Tell’ message will continue to be reaffirmed with students as we promote positive and respectful Godly relationships with one another. A wall of students’ hands encapsulated in a heart with the message ‘Stop! Go Tell’ helped to promote a sense of unity across our Campus and spread this important message.  

COMMUNITY CONNECTS

Marsden Park Campus hosted our first Community Connects evening in Week 8, with a large number of families attending this inaugural event. The evening provides an opportunity for families to connect firstly with one another and secondly, with members of the School Executive. The first part of the evening was dedicated to the 3 very important Cs - ‘Coffee, Cake and Chat’. This was followed by an information session where Executive staff provided details about School Operations, Campus Operations and School Planning, addressing pre-registered topics proposed by parents. We look forward to welcoming families to our next Community Connects event on Tuesday 15 June in Term 2. 

CROSS COUNTRY EVENTS

The K-2 Cross Country was held onsite yesterday. Our students, and even toddlers, teachers and parents had a lot of fun running our special ‘wiggly’ cross country track while collecting points for their House. It was wonderful to see so many parents able to attend and enjoy this wonderful event and celebration of School community. The Years 3-12 Cross Country will be held at Hanna Reserve tomorrow, Wednesday 31 March from 9:30-11:00am, excluding bus travel. Parents attending this Carnival need to register their attendance using the QR Code at the venue.  

JUMP ROPE FOR HEART – JUMP OFF DAY

“Jump Off Day” will be held this Thursday 1 April. Students wear their House Shirt and Sport Uniform on this day as special House skipping competitions will also be included in the Jump Off. Parents are able to attend but need to be mindful of social distancing and sign in using the QR Code. To date, RJ Primary students from our two Campuses combined are the highest fundraising school across all of Australia, so far raising over $14,000. This is a monumental effort and shows such servant hearts in our students and their families. Well done RJ!! 

NAPLAN TESTING DATE UPDATE– YEARS 3 AND 5

NAPLAN Practice Tests were held for students in Years 3 and 5 last Thursday. Please note updated testing dates for NAPLAN testing in May:

• Tuesday 11 May – Writing
• Thursday 13 May – Reading
• Friday 14 May – Conventions of Language
• Monday 17 May - Numeracy

PUBLIC SPEAKING FINALS

The Public Speaking Finals will be held tomorrow evening, Wednesday 31 March at 6:30pm. Parents of students successful in making the Finals have been invited to attend this event with their child. The event will be held in the COLA.  

SECONDARY PRODUCTION OF JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT

Congratulations to staff and students involved in the Secondary production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Marsden Park students Isobel and William C, and teacher Miss Seto, were involved in the live band, doing an amazing job. I’m sure if you saw the Secondary production, you will agree it was a wonderful show. 

TERM 1 PARENT/TEACHER INTERVIEWS

Term 1 face-to-face Parent/Teacher Interviews finish this evening. Thank you to parents who were able to attend. I trust you found these interviews insightful and helpful. Phone interviews will continue throughout the remainder of the week, but the booking form will cease from this afternoon at 3pm. 

UNIFORM

On return in Term 2, students may wear either their Summer or Winter Uniform for the first 3 weeks. The Summer and Winter Uniform cannot be combined; students wear one or the other. From Week 4, Winter Uniform must be worn each day. Please refer to the School Uniform and Student Presentation Policy available on the School website https://www.rjas.nsw.edu.au/resources/general/ to ensure your child is in the correct uniform. 

Students continue to wear their hat all year round. Pre-Kindergarten children wear the long sleeve polo shirt with the School tracksuit from Week 3 of Term 2. They may wear Summer or Winter Uniform in the first 2 weeks. For added warmth, parents may purchase the School jumper. No other items of clothing are to be worn (including skivvys or long sleeve shirts under the polo). 

WSCS INTERSCHOOL TRIALS

WSCS Term 2 Interschool sport trials for students in Years 3-6 were postponed due to flooding last week. These trials have been rescheduled to the first week of Term 2, Wednesday 21 April.

Mrs Narelle Taylor
Assistant Principal/Head of Primary - Marsden Park

This, along with many sparkly sequins, provided the illusion of a single piece of fabric. Just as the coat was made of many colours, those who participated in the musical were many and varied, contributing a different facet but all working cohesively for the end product, our magnificent Musical Production. Collaboration can be seen across our School, in classrooms, in staffrooms and on the sports field. Good working relationships and teamwork improve our school's richness, bringing us together as one cohesive body. So at the end of a busy and long term, I want to thank you all and wish you a safe and restful holiday and remind you that should you require assistance, to make contact.

NAPLAN PRACTICE TESTING

In Years 7 and 9, we have completed our NAPLAN practise tests this week. This allows NESA to ensure the capabilities of our system and the NAPLAN testing facilities. We do not receive any results from these tests, but it has undoubtedly provided our students with a quick reminder of the process of NAPLAN.

Our School will be participating in NAPLAN Online between 11 and 21 May 2021. 

Excessive preparation for NAPLAN Online is not recommended. Students can use the public demonstration site (https://www.nap.edu.au/online-assessment/public-demonstration-site) to familiarise themselves with the types of questions and tools available in the NAPLAN Online tests.

STUDY SAMURAI

To access Study Samurai, click on the link below to gain access:

Study Samurai Access

Our School's subscription details are:

Username: RJ@studysamurai.com

Password: success21

The Study Samurai Library subscription allows access to 3 online resources:

• Study Samurai video lessons (75 short video lessons with quizzes)
• Study Skills Handbook (43 topics on study skills)
• Online Wellbeing Course (17 topics on wellbeing)

April's Study Samurai tip can be seen by clicking on the link below:

Study Samurai Tip

Mrs Julia Scrimshaw 
Acting Head of Secondary/Director of Studies 

Time will be given to allow students to empty their lockers and for a member of staff to check that they are locked and empty. It is highly recommended that students start taking home books they do not need over the last two days of this term.

Some lockers for Year 9 and 10 students will be relocated during the holidays to allow for the commencement of construction of the Senior Learning Centre. It is essential that these lockers are left empty to allow for them to be moved.

I do hope that all families of the RJ Community have a safe and relaxing break, getting ready for a great Term 2.

Mr Brad Maxwell
Director of Welfare/Assistant Director of Studies  

SOCCER CLINICS

We are looking forward to offering Soccer Clinics at both Campuses next term. You will receive an email outlining when the trybooking.com website is open for bookings to purchase a place for your child. The Clinics are $10 per week for Years 1-2 students and $15 per week for Years 3-6 students.

Just a reminder of the following times for Soccer Clinics:

Oakhurst:

• 1-2 Soccer Clinic (Thursday morning 7:45am-8:30am)
• 3-6 Soccer Clinic (Friday afternoon 3:40pm-4:40pm)

Marsden Park:

• 1-2 Soccer Clinic (Thursday afternoon projected time 3:30pm-4:15pm)
• 3-6 Soccer Clinic (Thursday afternoon 3:30pm-4:30pm)

YEARS 3-12 CROSS COUNTRY

This Wednesday will see the latest instalment of the Years 3-12 Cross Country. Just a reminder that students should be drinking adequate water in the lead up to the Carnival and on the day of the Carnival. It is really important that they stay hydrated before and after the event.

Parents wishing to attend the event will need to sign in with our COVID Marshalls. There will be a sign in sheet near the toilet block at Hanna Reserve where they will also receive a guest sticker.

The times for the Carnival are approximations and if parents intend on supporting their child, please be aware that these times may change.

• 11/12 year boys – 9:45am 
• 11/12 year girls – 9:50am
• 10 year boys – 10am
• 10 year girls – 10:05am
• 8/9 year boys – 10:15am
• 8/9 year girls – 10:20am

While the 11 and 12 years will run together, the top 4 in each age group will proceed to the Zone Carnival. The 8 and 9 years race though is run together and the top 4 in the race will go through to the Zone Carnival. At CSSA level, there is no 8 years race as they race with 9 years.

JUMP OFF DAY

Jump Rope for Heart is nearing its culmination with Richard Johnson raising just over $14,000 so far, what an incredible effort to help the Heart Foundation! 

Our Jump Off Day is this Thursday for both Campuses so keep on practicing those tricks! And don’t forget to share your online fundraising page with friends and family to raise money for a great cause! Still need to sign up online? It’s easy just follow this link and enter your details.

www.jumprope.org.au/parents 

WSCS TRIALS

Due to ground closures, the WSCS trials didn’t take place last week. As a result, we will endeavour to have these trials take place on the first Wednesday of Term 2.

Mr Gavin Mitchell
Primary Sports Co-ordinator 

YEARS 3-12 CROSS COUNTRY

The next sporting event at RJ will be the Years 3-12 Cross Country tomorrow. We will be running this event at Hanna Reserve with the Primary coming down in the morning and Secondary heading down just before noon. We are looking forward to supporting Run4Bibles again this year with every $7 raised sending a bible and bible resource to young people in South Africa. Please get involved in supporting this worthy campaign.

With current restrictions at the CSSA State level, we will have to run a CSSA Nepean Zone Cross Country. This will most likely be in early Term 2. Our top 4 runners in each category will have the opportunity to make the Zone team that will then compete at CSSA State Cross Country in Term 2.

CSSA STATE SWIMMING

Today we had twenty students attend the CSSA State Swimming Carnival at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. With over 70 CSSA Schools represented it was great to witness the competition. To reach this level, our students at RJ had to be in the best three places from the CSSA Nepean Zone Carnival. This is an awesome achievement in and of itself. To compete at the CSSA State Carnival shows a positive growth mindset of achieving the best you can at all levels. Congratulations to all students who represented RJ and the CSSA Nepean Zone at this event.

SCHOOL AND REPRESENTATIVE SPORT

Next term, we will be following a similar Secondary Sports Program to Term 1. The only change is Year 7 will be rotating through two sports or representing RJ in Representative Sports. Students have nominated for a position to trial in the representative sports which will be conducted in Term 2 Week 1. The Secondary Sports Program will run a similar format to this term and students will be notified of the sports that each year group will participate in for Term 2.

Mr David Hyde
Secondary Sports Co-ordinator 

What is your favourite food?

I really enjoy anything unhealthy. I love sour lollies and I love salt and vinegar crisps. 

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

At the moment I am completing a paint-by-numbers (which is going to take me years I feel). I also enjoy reading soap-opera books or watching TV. I enjoy playing board games with my family. 

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

I started at the beginning of 2021. I had just completed my Masters in Primary Education and was looking for a job and I was keen to be in a quality school to continue to grow as a teacher. 

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

I am already enjoying the support that I have had from all the teachers and feel that I have already grown immensely. I am looking forward to continuing to grow as an educator. 

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

When I was in Year 10 my mum and I went on a trip around the world. We got very lost in Italy one night and couldn't find our way back to our motel. We walked into a pub and the owner looked up where we were staying and then drove us there. It was a 30 minute drive. The kindness of that man will never be forgotten. 

Why did you become a Christian?

I was fortunate enough to grow up in a Christian family and so had Christian values instilled from a very young age. I don't really remember a time when I didn't believe in the grace shown by God to me, however, there are many times in my life when I have had to re-make that decision to hold on to God when I could have easily chosen the way of the world instead. 

What is your favourite bible verse and why?

"Jesus answered them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance" Luke 5:30-31. 

What is something you want to achieve?

- Personally: I want to see my children grow up to be followers of God, living a life that honors Him. 

- Professionally: I want to see the students in my class have those "oh I get it moments" and see them grow academically and spiritually. 

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

Tom Hanks. I would love to discuss with him the challenges he has faced as a man of faith in the career he has. 

What is your favourite food?

It changes a bit, but one of my solid favourites is a Thai or Indian curry.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Sewing and all kinds of crafty things! I love sewing clothes and Bible journaling. 

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

I had been working as a teacher's aide at my previous school while I was studying my teaching degree. I came to RJ to start the next part of my career as a classroom teacher. I was very excited to be able to work here as I knew several people who had been or still are part of the RJ community.

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

I'm loving being a part of two different faculties and I think that I will continue to enjoy the variety and the opportunity to teach in two areas that I am passionate about. 

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

Last year I got married during COVID lockdown. It was a very stressful time and sad that we couldn't have all our friends and family there, but lots of people still came and parked their cars outside the church we were in and watched the livestream from outside. Then they were all still there to clap and cheer and throw confetti at us as we walked outside! I was so surprised that they were there and it was so special. After the service we walked down the street to my in-laws house and we ate party pies, sausage rolls and wedding cake for afternoon tea!

Why did you become a Christian?

I was very little when I became a Christian, but as I have grown up, I have learnt more about what it really means to be a sinner, and how I will never be good enough on my own. God's forgiveness and His grace is amazing and that's why I serve Him in thankfulness each day!

What is your favourite bible verse and why?

Hebrews 6:19 – Because it assures us of the certainty and hope we have in all of God's promises.

What is something you want to achieve?

I'd like to start a garden so that I can grow and eat my own vegetables!

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

Dr Megan Sumeracki – She is a learning and memory expert who co-founded a podcast I like to listen to called 'The Learning Scientists.' I have been reading her book and I would love to meet her and ask her lots of questions!

This event provides a wonderful opportunity to spend time with other members of the RJ Community and to nurture that sense of ‘belonging’ whilst serving others with your time. To ensure the success of this activity we require four or five volunteers to assist Mrs Ghali with packaging approximately 700 gifts for both Campuses on Friday 23 April 9:00am to midday. (The initial packaging will take place at the Oakhurst Campus.)

Furthermore, we require even more volunteers to assist with the Stalls themselves.

The Oakhurst Campus requires at least six volunteers to set up from 8:00am with pack-up approximately 2:00pm (morning tea and lunch will be provided by the School). If you can only assist with a part day, please advise accordingly.

The Marsden Park Campus requires at least four volunteers to set up from 9:15am with pack-up approximately midday (morning tea will be provided by the School). 

If you can assist, please email sghali@rjas.nsw.edu.au as soon as possible to assist with planning.

Funds raised will be deposited in the fundraising clearing account, and allocated as suitable projects are considered.

Please also note that as a volunteer, as per the School policy, you will require a valid Working With Children Check Clearance. If this hasn’t been provided as yet, please email Mrs Ghali your clearance number together with your date of birth for verification.

Thank you for considering your involvement in this worthwhile activity as we hope to bring a smile to the face of every Mum on this special day.