Year 7

ISA Cross Country  

Last week 24 students represented Redlands/ISA at the CIS Cross Country Championships held at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre. Despite the muddy and tough conditions, it was fantastic to see our students putting so much effort into their runs today.  

Highlights from the day include: 

• Isaac Brooks finished 6th in the 18 Years 8k, qualifying for the NSW All Schools. 

• Imogen Howard finished 9th in the 15 Years 4k, also qualifying for the NSW All Schools. 
• 16 Yr Girls team placed 2nd overall. 
• 16 Yr Boys team placed 3rd overall. 
• Stella Brock (Year 7) showed remarkable sportsmanship by sacrificing her own race to assist a Queenwood girl who had a bad fall. She walked her to the emergency tent, an act of kindness that impressed both the ISA and CIS Convenors. 

 Well done to our Yr 7 students for their outstanding performance and sportsmanship! 

Athletics Training 

In Week 8, there is an opportunity for all students in Year 7-12 to practice their event/events for the SS Athletics Carnival which is coming up in Week 9. If you are interested, please ask your child to complete the form HERE. Training will resume in Week 2, Term 3, every Monday morning from 6:30am–7:30am at Balmoral Oval.  

First Training Session Details

• Date: Week 8, Monday morning 

• Time: 6:30-7:30am 

• Location: Balmoral Oval   

Key Information: 

• Transportation: Students must make their own way to Balmoral Oval to arrive by 6:30am. A bus will transport students back to the Secondary School at 7:30am, giving them time to change before Period 1. 

• Training Focus: Events available at the training session include sprints, middle distance, throws and long jump. High jump training will begin in Term 3 on Friday mornings in the gym from 7:00-7:45am. 

• Schedule: Training will commence in Week 8. There will be no training in Week 9, but it will resume every Monday throughout Term 3.   

ALL STUDENTS are welcome, including those who wish to use athletics training as fitness for other sports. 

Cocurricular Fun 

Joining a school club is immensely valuable for students, as it fosters personal growth, social connections and skill development. Participating in a club allows students to explore interests beyond the academic curriculum, providing a well-rounded educational experience. It cultivates leadership qualities and teamwork, as students often collaborate on projects and organise events. Moreover, being part of a club can enhance university applications and CVs, demonstrating a commitment to cocurricular activities and community involvement. Socially, it offers a sense of belonging and the opportunity to make lasting friendships with peers who share similar interests. Ultimately, joining a school club enriches the overall school experience, equipping students with essential life skills and cherished memories. 

Here are some photos of recent cocurricular clubs.

For further information please use the following link. 

Year 7 English Lessons 

To wrap up their unit on David Almond’s novella, Skellig, Year 7 English students experimented with Minecraft to create their ideal school that fostered creativity. As part of their novel study, students explored the ideas of the romantic poet, William Blake, and his perspectives on traditional education. Blake encouraged freedom of thought and creativity rather than subject-based classroom learning. Students embodied these ideas in the creation of their own Minecraft schools, including elements like trampoline floors and petting zoos. It was great to see students engage so enthusiastically with the task and the way this enthusiasm translated into their final products!

Year 7 Pastoral Care Program – Week 7 

This week for our Pastoral Sessions, Yr 7 looked at Help Seeking behaviour scenarios and worked together to unpack questions. Help Seeking Behaviours are actions people take when they need assistance or support from others. These behaviours are important because they help us solve problems, learn new things, and feel supported when we face challenges. Let’s explore what Help Seeking Behaviours are and why they matter. 

What Are Help Seeking Behaviours? 

Help Seeking involves asking for help when you need it. This can be in many different situations, such as: 

• In School: Asking a teacher or a friend to explain something you don’t understand. 
• At Home: Asking family members for help with homework or chores.
• With Friends: Asking for advice or support when you’re feeling upset or confused. 

Why Are Help Seeking Behaviours Important? 

Learning and Growing: When you ask for help, you learn new things and understand more. This helps you grow and improve in your studies and in life.

Building Relationships: Asking for help and offering help in return can strengthen your relationships with friends, family, and teachers.

Feeling Supported: Knowing that you can ask for help makes you feel more confident and supported. It’s okay to not know everything, and seeking help shows that you are willing to learn.

Solving Problems: Some problems are too big to handle alone. By seeking help, you can find solutions more quickly and effectively. 

Mental Health First Aid

A number of our Pastoral Care and Administrative staff were lucky enough to participate in a two-day Mental Health First Aid course this week facilitated by our incredibly knowledgable School Counsellors, Will Chen and Alessandro Digiacomo.

Mental Health First Aid is crucial for students in school as it provides early intervention and support for mental health challenges, fostering a safer and more supportive learning environment. Students often face many stressors, including academic pressure, social dynamics, and personal issues, which can impact their mental wellbeing. Mental Health First Aid equips teachers, staff, and peers with the skills to recognise signs of mental distress and provide initial support, guiding students to appropriate professional help when necessary. This proactive approach can prevent the escalation of mental health issues, reduce stigma, and promote a culture of empathy and understanding. By addressing mental health needs early and effectively, schools can enhance students’ overall well-being, academic performance, and personal development, ensuring they are better prepared for future challenges. 

If you are seeking further information to support your child, the following websites have some excellent resources: 

Beyond Blue

Kids Helpline 

Chess Tournament 

Calling all Year 7 students! Here’s what you need to know about the Redlands Chess Tournament: 

Sign up for the Redlands Chess Competition 2024 to challenge yourself, forge new friendships, and experience the thrill of strategic gameplay in a supportive environment! Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your critical thinking skills and be part of an inclusive community of chess enthusiasts. Prizes up for grabs!! See you at the board!!! 

• When: Friday Lunchtimes from Term 3 Week 1 -5 
• Where: Roseby Library 
• What: An engaging and inclusive exploration of chess   
• Who: Open to all Year 7 students, regardless of skill level   

Why: Sharpen your skills, make new friends, and discover the magic of chess…and win Chargrill Charlie Vouchers!!   

Supervised by: Dr Alice 

Sign Up Here

Or Scan QR Codes found around the School. 

Shout Outs 

• Stella Brock (Yr 7) showed remarkable sportsmanship by sacrificing her own race to assist a Queenwood girl who had a bad fall. She walked her to the emergency tent, an act of kindness that impressed both the ISA and CIS Convenors. 

• Aryana Mishra Mall for assisting in organising a fantastic opportunity for students to show off their talents at the Bougainvillea old people’s home on 20 June. 

Ms Abby Walker
Yr 7 Advisor
9968 9818
awalker@redlands.nsw.edu.au