Head of Junior School

Head of Junior School

Halfway Point

As we reach the halfway point of the term, it’s a good time to reflect on what has been an action packed 5 weeks. We have enjoyed important events in the life of the school such as the Junior Music Festival, the Athletics Carnival, Book Week, Science Week, incursions and excursions to name but a few. In the core business of learning and teaching we have seen pleasing progress in many areas—students have been engaged, teachers have delivered stimulating lessons and the school continues to be a positive and productive learning environment. These successes are worth celebrating, and they set a strong foundation for what lies ahead.

This is also a moment for each of us to pause and reflect individually. In Junior Assembly this week I asked students to reflect on their personal achievements and challenges so far, what they have done well, and where they can improve? There’s always room to grow, whether it’s refining study habits, participating more actively in class, or offering support to those around us. Knowing our superb student body, I have no doubt that they will commit to finishing this term with the same energy and determination that got us to this point.

Staffing News

Next week we farewell our highly regarded PE/PD/H teacher Ms Faye Dongas. Throughout Faye’s time at Redlands, she has worked across many P-6 classes. Faye’s enthusiasm and dedication in teaching our students the foundational skill of physical education has been very much appreciated as is her commitment to teaching and guided them through personal health and safety education. We will be sad to see Faye leave us, but we wish her well on her next adventure as she starts a new position as PDHPE teacher at Central Coast Grammar School.

Upcoming Term 3 Gallery Walks – Save the Date

We’re excited to invite Year 3, Year 4 and Year 6 parents to step into classrooms for our upcoming Term 3 Gallery Walks.  Join us for a hands-on experience of your child’s learning journey as they share their reflections and achievements over the term. Save the date, listed below, to share in these learning celebrations. 

  • Year 6 – Friday 20 September 8:30-9:30am 
  • Year 3 – Wednesday 25 September 8:30-9:30am
  • Year 4 – Thursday 26 September 8:30-9:30am 

Project Connect, from our Dean of Students, Mrs Clinton

The Project Connect program is an opportunity for our Year 6 students to build strong, supportive relationships with our Year 10 mentors which will assist their transition from the Junior Campus to the Senior Campus. We aim to create a seamless and positive experience for our Year 6’s and we look forward to watching the bonds that we hope will continue to grow

Recently some of our Year 6 students had a great time meeting their Year 10 mentors, diving into a series of engaging getting-to-know-you challenges and fun icebreaker activities. These early morning activities were fun and instrumental in fostering teamwork, collaboration, and a vibrant sense of camaraderie among the students.

Snowsports – State Interschool Competition

Last week, 10 Junior School students proudly represented Redlands at the State Interschool competition. It was an exciting week filled with outstanding performances. A special congratulations to the eight students who have qualified for Nationals next week:

  • Xandy Duivenbode
  • Blake Taylor
  • Archie Mills
  • Mia Taylor
  • Roman Pop Dimitrov

We wish them all the best and look forward to another fantastic week ahead!

Nurturing Positive Self-Esteem in Your Child

As parents, you play a crucial role in shaping your children’s sense of self-worth and confidence. Join us for an insightful presentation on effective strategies to cultivate positive self-esteem in your children. In this session, we will explore:

  • Understanding the importance of self-esteem in a child’s development
  • Understanding body image issues and how to mitigate them
  • Practical tips and everyday techniques to foster a healthy self-image in your child
  • Effective communication and the art of being assertive, and the role it plays in your child’s positive sense of self
  • How to manage digital challenges and limit the negative impact technology can have on your child’s self-esteem

Empower your child to thrive with a strong sense of self. Together, let’s build a foundation that prepares them for a lifetime of confidence and positive self-worth.

Father’s Day Celebration

We are excited to invite you to join us in celebrating Father’s Day on Monday 2 September from 7.45 am at the Junior Campus Piazza.  Please note that bookings will close on Wednesday 28 August, reservations are necessary for catering purposes.

In the event of rain, the celebration will continue as planned, with arrangements made to accommodate refreshments undercover.

Please Join Year 12 in their Efforts

Year 12 are inviting the entire Redlands community to support them in their fundraising efforts. They appreciate your support as they come to the end of their Redlands journey by purchasing one, or more, of our special commemorative 2024 drink bottles, Redlands Rhino key chains and greeting cards, or contribute directly to the Scholarship Fund.

If you make a purchase, products will be available this term either delivered to your child’s class or by post for an extra charge.

Legacy Gift 2024 – Drink Bottles & Key Chains

Uniform Update

As the days grow warmer and given that not all students are currently wearing the new uniform, which affords greater flexibility, students wearing the old uniform may choose to wear their summer uniform to school on very hot days.

Mr Ian Holden
Head of Junior School
iholden@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9953 6022