30 August 2022

It was wonderful to see so many students take part by coming dressed as one of their favourite storybook characters. With a particular focus on “all things Disney”, the event was extremely fun and colourful with a fanciful kaleidoscope of characters from a broad range of story types. A big thank you to all our Primary teachers who didn’t miss a beat in joining the students for the dress up!

The RJ Community Connect nights held over the last fortnight provided our parents with the opportunity to view the 'Imagine 25' items submitted by Marsden Park and Oakhurst students as part the 25th Anniversary Art Competition. Parents also learned about the new single sign-on procedure for the RJ digital platforms (Edumate, RJ App, Seesaw, Canvas). This new procedure will simplify access for parents by removing the use of different login requirements. If you haven’t signed on yet to reset your password, I encourage you to do so today. Also, the version 2 of the RJ App will be rolled out next term.

With Father’s Day occurring this coming Sunday, I thought I would share an article with our dads from the Focus on the Family website. Here is the link:

https://www.families.org.au/article/involved-father

In this article, we are reminded that dad’s need to be involved in their children’s lives. In doing so, we also need to recognise that we do things differently to mum in the parenting our children… and that’s actually ok. The article list 7 things fathers do.

1. Fathers parent differently

2. Fathers play differently

3. Fathers build confidence

4. Fathers communicate differently

5. Fathers discipline differently

6. Fathers prepare children for the real world

7. Fathers provide a look at the world of men

If you’re a dad, understand that you are unique to your children. Your children need you to be involved in their lives and show them how much you love and care for them. The greatest example of fatherhood is that of our Heavenly Father. Showing love, compassion, grace, kindness and being quick to forgive, are ways we can reflect the attributes of our Father in Heaven towards our own children.

Above all this Father’s Day, remember that fatherhood is a lifelong adventure. Keep learning, keep trying… and keep encouraging the dads around you.

And happy Father’s Day!

God Bless,

Mr Alan Dawson | Principal 

Not all poetry has a rhythm but it is beautiful the way that words can express deep and meaningful ideas, experiences and emotions. If I cast my mind back, it was the ballad that first grabbed my attention. At school it was the metaphysical poetry of John Donne, particularly his religious poetry. In teaching I have worked with students to understand the complexities of W.B. Yeats – even to the point where my students could sing his poetry in their HSC exams! These are some of the memories which bring me joy, and I’m looking forward to being able to meet with many of our alumni on 7 September. What stories our former students will have to tell!

Creating positive memories of school is important. It’s too easy to be mournful and disconsolate about school and work. Being grateful and giving thanks for opportunities actually takes work, and we can encourage one another in this every day. Sometimes, though, things happen in our lives which are beyond our control, and we need help to find a way forward. On Thursday 8 September we will be asking the question RUOK? The Student Forum and the Service Team will combine forces to create cupcakes for morning tea, whilst the Arts Captains have planned a dance party for Secondary students at lunch time in the Hall. Primary students will complete a range of class based activities. The theme of this year’s event is “No qualifications needed”. A series of conversation starters will be displayed around the Secondary area and students are encouraged to ask one another “RUOK?” If they think a friend needs extra help or support, to go beyond just “surviving” at school, then we want them to pass those names on so we can put professional supports in place. No-one needs to do life on their own.

This year we have reviewed many of our policies, and shortly I will have completed a new Student Leadership Policy. It sets out in a very deliberate way, to make clear the process of applying for leadership in Primary and Secondary, and how leaders are selected – not necessarily elected. We have not wanted to go down the path of popular elections and this has given great assurance to the students, that they are each considered on their own merit. The policy also outlines the various leadership programs our students have opportunity to experience. Some events change year by year, but others have become embedded in our normal cycle of School events. What is then particularly exciting, is seeing our Year 12 students then confidently apply for various leadership programs at University. It is an ever evolving cycle, as we prepare young people for the world beyond school and to be leaders in their local (and one day, global) communities. It was great to see the enthusiastic participation of Year 11 last week, as they participated in a leadership seminar, to help prepare them as they nominate for School leadership, in all its forms, for 2023. Our encouragement remains, however, that you don’t need a badge to be a leader. Leadership is reflected in many ways, and a badge is a token of a position, but not necessarily a reflection of who we really are. I am always reminded that God sees us even when we think no-one else is looking – but God also loves us, when we think no-one else even cares. How great is our God!

God bless

Mrs Jenny Clay
Deputy Principal  

To assist this fundraising activity, Primary & Secondary families who have a small business (or have a close relationship with one) can further assist by donating products or services as Auction items e.g. Nutrimetics Pack, Cleaning Service, Art Lessons, Meal Voucher, etc. Businesses will be noted on our website where the value exceeds $50. Please forward the item to an RJ Reception area. 

Furthermore, each Pre-K and Primary class are asked to donate themed items which will be bundled to create large, impressive hampers. Items will be placed in a basket in each Primary classroom. Each Year Group has a different theme as noted below:

(Using a standard cake box helps us with stacking, recording the ingredient list, and transit.) No nuts please.

• Auction Security - General supervision of hampers and items/vouchers (9:00am to 1:00pm)

• Auction Finale - Contacting of successful bidders, processing payment, distribution of items (1:00pm)

• Children Activities – Supervision of Giant Jenga, Giant Connect 4, Table Tennis (9:00am to 2:00pm)

• Children Craft Activities – Setup and supervision - Origami/Sand Art/Plaster (8:00am to 2:00pm) - Limited availability

• Cake Stall – General sales (Saturday 9:00am to 2:00pm) - Limited availability

• Canteen – General sales (10:00am to 2:00pm)

• Setting Up (8:00am to 9:00am), Pack Down/Clean Up (2:00pm to 3:00pm)

Please click the above volunteers link to let us know how you can help, confirming your preferred area and availability. As per policy, you will be required to have a current Volunteer WWCC.

Rides currently include: Dodgem Cars! Round Up! Body Rock! Super Slide! Auto Racer! Cup'n Saucer! Rocket Ride!

• Early bird discounted tickets available until Friday 16 Sept, 1:00pm

• *25c Trybooking admin fee

• Rides open at 10:00am

• $30 ride tickets on the day, individual rides $6 and $9 each

Many parents joined us for the morning and we were treated to an amazing variety of costumes plus a special performance from Mr ‘Tigger’ Dawson and the teachers. There was even a special visit from Mickey Mouse and Rafiki at lunchtime! Mrs Peterson, our treasured Librarian, was very happy with the Book Fair, so a special thank you if you were able to purchase a book or stationery up in F6 classroom last week - a wonderful incentive to keep reading with your children.

LION KING JNR TICKETS

The buzz continues as our Primary Musical - The Lion King Jr draws closer. Both evening shows are just about sold out on 13 and 14 September but a couple of tickets may still be available if you move fast! 
Book Online: www.trybooking.com/CBNKZ

DRYDEN AVE AFTERNOON PICK UP

Another reminder that this pick-up area is a designated ‘drive-through’ quick pick up of students who can get into a vehicle unassisted so drivers do not need to get out of their cars. This helps keep the waiting queue of vehicles moving. Please have your child/ren enter your car from the kerb side - not walking out onto the road to get in on the driver’s side as this puts students’ safety at risk. We have also had a few students recently not picked up on time or picked up by other family members without clear communication. Please make sure you and your child know the routine each day for getting home.

COMPASSION CHILD SPONSORSHIP 

Over the coming weeks we hope to contact the students we are sponsoring at both campuses and get to know them better. All classes have a donation box where students are able to donate money on any day. This is designed to take the pressure away from the need for more regular fundraising. Your child can bring coins in to donate in class. Why not chat to them about this worthwhile cause?  

FATHER’S DAY STALL

This coming Friday, 2 September, we will be holding our Father’s Day fundraising stall so students can buy an item for the special father figure in their life. Students are asked to bring a $5 or $10 note (no coins please) - one gift only.

This is our Bible memory verse for the term – see if your child knows it and the matching actions!                                                                                     

Enjoy the rest of your week, 

Mrs Karen Shannon-Duhigg
Head of Primary - Oakhurst

To all families, I wanted to send my wholehearted thanks for a great time last Thursday for the Book Week parade. Firstly, thank you to parents who I am sure helped their children come ready to parade in such a wonderful range of costumes and designs. The goal of the parade is two-fold, firstly, to develop a deep love of literature amongst students so that they come to the realisation that books are such an integral part of life, secondly, the purpose of the parade is also to build community and togetherness amongst staff, students and families. I can say with no reservation that we met both goals during the event! I am personally looking forward to 2023!! 

House Meetings  

House meetings are an excellent opportunity for students to demonstrate their leadership potential. The final house for Term 3 will continue to look at the craft created by the house leaders. Please be aware that the date of this meeting has changed to the 15 September.   

Father’s Day Sausage Sizzle

We are looking forward to welcoming our Dads to a special sausage sizzle this Thursday morning. Unfortunately registrations have closed for this catered event. 

Father’s Day Stall Fundraiser

Our students enjoyed purchasing something special for their Dad today. Thank you to the generous volunteers who facilitated the stall. We wish our Fathers all the best for this Sunday.

Primary Leadership Program 

As part of our ongoing Commitment to Service at RJ over the next few weeks students in Year 5 will be challenged to commit to Service opportunities. Most of these opportunities will occur at school and you will have received a communication regarding this from Mrs Tracey Kuiper. Please encourage your students to participate in the program as this is a great opportunity to serve. This program is also a prerequisite for school leadership in 2023.  

Overview 

- The Young Leaders Program engages students in 5 key areas. 
- Communication 
- Organisation and Teamwork 
- Service 
- Christian Development 
- Physical Endeavour 

COMPASSION CHILD SPONSORSHIP 

Over the coming weeks we hope to contact the students and get to know them better and put in place a system where students will be able to donate money on a class basis. This is designed to take the pressure away from the need for more regular fundraising.  

Overview of Compassion 

Compassion is a Christian, international, holistic child development organisation. Through our Child Sponsorship Program, more than 2 million children are currently being released from poverty in Jesus’ name. With over six decades of experience, Compassion’s unique approach to solving poverty works: research proves it. For more information  

Compassion.com.au  

LION KING JNR TICKETS

Yes – they are now on sale! Don’t wait – secure your seat today for our Primary Musical on either 13 or 14 September. Don’t miss it!
Book Online: www.trybooking.com/CBNKZ

Term 3 Events (Still to come)

Please see an overview of Term 3 events below.

• Year 5 Leadership Program 
• Primary Musical – The Lion King Jr 
• Father’s Day Stall and Breakfast
• Pyjamarama (Year 4 Sleepover now postponed until early Term 4)   

ASSEMBLIES

Assembly Schedule for term 3 is as follows: -  

We will be looking specifically at Colossians 3:12 during assemblies this Term.  

HOUSEKEEPING  

• Absences: Please email the absences email address:  absences@rjas.nsw.edu.au or SMS 0438 657 339. 
• Early pick up: To arrange to collect your child early from School please call the Office on the day of the scheduled pick up before 9:00am.  
• Child being picked up by another party: If your child is being picked up by any other person other than parents please call the school before 9:00am or email the names of the person/s and mobile number/s and request that they bring their Drivers Licence as proof of identity.  
• After school care arrangements: If you have arranged after school care please remind your child before dropping them to school. In an emergency please call the office to ensure the message is not missed.  

Mr Luke Sale
Head of Primary - Marsden Park

Mission Australia Youth Survey

Students in Years 10 and 11 were provided with the opportunity to complete the annual Mission Australia Youth Survey this week. The information gathered across Australia provides an amazing and helpful snapshot of the thoughts, concerns and values of teenagers today. 

Year 11 Examinations 

Our Year 11 students will be sitting their exams in Weeks 8 and 9, from Monday 12 to Monday 19 September. The timetable has been shared with students via CANVAS and all examinations will take place in the Senior Learning Centre. I encourage members of the RJ community to be praying for the students and their families as they both prepare and complete the examinations.

Arrival at School

It is concerning to see an increase in the number of students arriving late to school of a morning. Students are expected to arrive from 8:00am to be ready to start school by 8:30am. If students are late this is communicated to parents who are given the opportunity to provide a reason for the late arrival of their child if they have not already done so. If no reason is provided by a parent the student is issued a Late Demerit which contributes to the possibility of a formal lunch detention being issued - issued when a student accumulates five demerits in 15 school days. Sadly there is an increasing number of students on detention due to their late arrival to school. I encourage all parents to contact the school if their child is late to provide an explanation / reason and also to speak with their children if they are struggling to arrive to school on time.

RJ Spring Festival - Cakes/Biscuits/Slices Galore

This Thursday, the eldest Secondary child in each family will be sent home a cake box for you to return on Friday 16 September filled with yummy goodies to sell at the Spring Festival on the Saturday. Thank you in advance for your involvement in this fundraising activity.

Vaping is more than a Social Concern

With vaping continuing to be an issue spoken about in the media I thought it would be helpful to remind parents of the Schools position regarding vaping and share a helpful resource with the RJ Community. The School's stance is quite clear regarding vaping due to the health risks and laws surrounding vapes and young people. Vaping is not permitted at school, any student found to be vaping at school and / or found to have vapes in their possession will face suspension and possible expulsion from the school.

NSW Health have many resource online, including an "Information for parents and carers page - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/pages/vaping-parents.aspx. The following statement certainly got my attention - "Young people may think they are simply inhaling flavoured water, this is far from the truth. Vapes can have the same harmful chemicals found in cleaning products, nail polish remover, weed killer and bug spray." 

If anyone has concerns for any student in the RJ community regarding vapes / vaping please contact myself or any member of staff at the school.

Mr Brad Maxwell 
Head of Secondary 

Most have been able to complete their Sections such as Physical Recreation and Service while working through the limitations of lockdown and physical distancing. One area they have had significant trouble with is completing their Bronze Level hikes due to Covid and flood damage. We were finally able to go on Friday 9 August to the Blue Mountains National Park near Glenbrook.  

We had great weather for the hike with only a bit of rain to show itself on Friday afternoon. The students participated really well, looking to encourage each other along they away. They were able to see Aboriginal artworks in Red Hands Cave, navigate through bush, camp out for a night with only their own equipment and see how they went at carrying their own packs. Overall, I was impressed with their effort. I just want to acknowledge Mrs Reed for attending as well and helping to encourage the students on. 

Our next hike is coming up soon so looking forward to that one.  

If you have a child who is Year 9 or who has turned 14 years old, and you or they are interested in knowing more about the Award then they can come and see me or you can go to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award website at dukeofed.com.au and see what the Award involves. As a School and then myself as the Duke of Edinburgh Award Coordinator, we aim to let students experience all kinds of achievement and this is highly recognised way of pursuing this.   

Mr Chris Bemrose 
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Coordinator at RJAS 

Mr Hunt and Mrs Oliver mentioned that the RJ students were well behaved at this event, which is lovely to hear. Several of our students have qualified for the CSSA State Athletics Carnival which is held this Friday at Sydney Olympic Park. A special thank you to Mr Rees for his assistance on the day.

State Athletics Carnival

Our students who have qualified for the State Athletics Carnival will compete this Friday. This is just a reminder that students should only be purchasing CSSA sports uniforms if they have qualified for the CSSA team which competes at the CIS carnival. If students finish in the top 3 at the carnival this Friday, they will qualify for the CSSA team. Students are only allowed to wear CSSA gear at school if they make this team.

Mr Gavin Mitchell
Primary Sports Leader

If you would like your child to purchase a gift, please send $5 or $10 (single note preferably) on 

• Marsden Park: Tuesday 30 August 
• Oakhurst: Friday 2 September 
• Pre-K students who only attend Wed/Thurs/Fri will also be given an opportunity to purchase on Wednesday 31 August. 

Students are limited to one gift, although an exception is made if a child has two fathers (e.g. a stepfather). Please avoid sending coins to avoid them being lost on the day and to assist with end of day cash handling and counting. 

Volunteers are needed to help at both Campuses
Marsden Park 8:15am - 11:30am
Oakhurst 9:15am - 2:00pm
Please email Mrs Ghali if you can assist on the day SGhali@rjas.nsw.edu.au