Head of Junior School
It has been wonderful to have enjoyed the regular rhythm of a disruption-free Term 1 again, such an important starting point for our students in a new school year. I know from talking to staff and some parents that we have seen challenge in learning, growth and progress amongst students in a range of different areas across school life. Time for reflection over the break is also important and I encourage you to talk to your child about what it is they have felt most proud of this term or maybe what has challenged them.
A hallmark of any good school is its busyness, and no one could ever say that Redlands does not meet this measure. Therefore, it is even more important for students and teachers to rest in the breaks, and I encourage staff and families to step away from school and find things to do together that bring you happiness.
As we end the term today, I also acknowledge and thank our Redlands staff, students and families for the various roles played in supporting our school community. I wish everyone a restful break and safe travels, where taken, and we look forward to welcoming the students back for Term 2 on Wednesday 26 April.
Please note that students should be in Winter Uniform for Terms 2 and 3, which includes blazers, except on Wednesdays when we have Sport and on their class’ PE day.
International Day
On Tuesday, our Junior Campus was awash with energy and vibrant colour as we celebrated our global-mindedness and diversity through our annual International Day event. It was particularly joyful to have so many parents give up their time to share their cultural backgrounds and experiences, which is always a highlight and added significantly to the richness of the day. Thank you to the many parents involved in celebrating and acknowledging our rich community diversity.
Mrs Benneyworth
As some parents may have noted, at very late notice, Mrs Benneyworth did not return at the start of Term 1.
With her approval, I am able to now share that during the summer break, Mrs Benneyworth was diagnosed with multiple myeloma which is a blood cancer. She has started treatment which she reports is going well and we have remained in contact with her, offering support where we can.
I have deliberately not spoken to the students about Mrs Benneyworth as I know these types of matters can trigger different emotions for different students and can be hard for young students to process. However, if your child has been taught by Mrs Benneyworth and/or if you feel that you would like to share this with your child, the holiday period may be a good opportunity to do so.
I know you will join me in keeping Jo in your thoughts and prayers and we will keep our community updated, as appropriate.
Easter Service
In Ms McKenzie’s recent absence, I am grateful to our Secondary School Chaplain, Mrs Philips and to Ms Michaels for leading our engaging Easter Service this week. I also acknowledge their support of our weekly Chapel services and thank them.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Ms Ciara Harding, who was married last weekend. We wish her and her husband, Sean, a lifetime of happiness together.
Reminder: Medications on Year 6 Camp
Preparations are at the final stages for our Yr 6 Camp and if your child requires medication (prescribed or OTC) on camp, you will need to complete and return a Medical Authority Form (MAF) located on Pulse HERE to Mr Atkins (Head of Outdoor Education) via email at eatkins@redlands.nsw.edu.au.
This form will need to be returned to Mr Atkins by Friday 24 April. Students should not be arriving to camp without a completed MAF if they require medication. Please contact Mr Atkins for any other questions.
Term Dates 2023 and 2024
Notwithstanding the occasional important family circumstances that necessitate leave of absence during term, please can I ask families to carefully review our term dates for the rest of 2023 and 2024 ahead of booking future holidays. I share the concern of some teachers as we have seen a gradual increase in students miss important learning time due to term time holidays.
Please be reminded that the start of Term 2 is Wednesday 26 April and for your reference and planning of future holidays, please find the term dates for the rest of 2022 and 2023.
OOSH Parent Feedback
To support our OOSH team who are currently working on a project that will allow us to improve our programs and how families utilise the service, all OOSH families are encouraged to click on this link to answer 5 quick questions to help us reflect on our operations.
Uniform Shop
Holiday Opening Hours
The Uniform Shop will close at 4pm on Thursday 6 April and reopen on Thursday 20 April 2023. To make an appointment for a winter uniform fitting, please click HERE or visit Pulse for further details.
Winter Uniform
All students must return in full winter uniform on the first day of Term 2. Blazers are compulsory to be worn to and from school in all Year Groups. Further information on winter uniform requirements can be found HERE.
Back to School Vouchers
We are now accepting the NSW Back to School Vouchers in the Uniform Shop. Purchases must be made in store or via telephone by quoting your voucher number. Vouchers expire on 30 June 2023, so remember to use them when purchasing winter uniforms. (Please note that vouchers cannot be used with FlexiSchools orders).
Mr Ari Guha
Head of Junior School
aguha@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9953 6022