Head of Secondary School
International Day
The Secondary School proudly celebrated International Day on Tuesday, raising $590 for the UNICEF Change for Good charity. Not only did students dress in their national heritage or House allocated dress, but there were also a number of activities for students to partake in such as Spanish salsa dancing, Chinese kite design and Japanese fan design, to name a few. In addition, all Yr 7 students were treated to the Taiko drumming ensemble and were able to have a go on the Taiko drums themselves.
At our International Day assembly, we were honoured to invite back Redlander Maartje Drok, (Class of 2008) (pictured below with our Coordinator of Languages, John Holden) , who spoke to the students about her experiences as an international student at Redlands and the various experiences she has had studying and working around the world since she graduated from Redlands.
Below is an excerpt from my speech to the students at our assembly, in which I highlighted the importance of International Day at Redlands.
“Today is a special and important day in our school calendar. While we enjoy seeing the rich pageantry of colours, flags and clothing, while we savour the delectable culinary treats and while we appreciate different cultural expressions through dance, music and art, I believe International Day has a far greater significance than these enjoyable events we see on the surface.
You see today, we also and more importantly recognise and celebrate the rich diversity of cultures, backgrounds and nationalities that form the Redlands community. Approximately 20% of us sitting in the gym today come from an international or expat background. Our varied experiences, our different worldviews and our international mindedness enrich each other and strengthen our community.
Our strength is our diversity.
Today I am wearing a tie given to me by the principal of Tupou College in Tonga. Like many of you who have been on exchanges or Service Learning trips overseas, I was very fortunate to spend a month living and working with Tupou staff and students at their school in Tonga. I was accepted into their community and grew and learnt much from this experience. I know many of you have similarly been enriched by diverse human connections made during exchanges or Service Learning trips to Tanzania, Cambodia, China, Japan, Fiji, New Caledonia, New Zealand or other countries.
But, sadly, just over two weeks ago, in the terror attacks in Christchurch, we saw the ugly side of humanity. We saw a horrific act of hatred born out of ignorance and fear. Ignorance of others and fear of difference that led to blind hatred and callous evil.
However, out of my own mixture of shock, grief, anger and frustration in response to the events in Christchurch, an overriding emotion of hope has begun to develop. It is a hope that comes from interacting with you, the community of students and staff at Redlands, a community comprised of a rich tapestry of nations, ethnicities and religions.
Instead of fear and ignorance and hate, I see how we illustrate genuine respect and empathy and love for each other in our daily interactions.
Our strength is our diversity.”
Theatresports
It was great to see so many teams of students from different Year Groups competing in our Theatresports competition on Tuesday evening. I commend all students who had the courage to partake in the improvisational comedy games throughout the evening. I would like to congratulate the Sleepy Senior team who woke up in time to win the Senior Competition, and the Mafia team who took out the Intermediate Competition. (Although there might be a further investigation to ensure no bribery or intimidation of the judges took place.) Also, congratulations to Fraser Clarke (Yr 12) who won the Magic Senior Moment on the night, and Callum Wardman-Browne (Yr 12) who won the Magic Intermediate Moment.
Musical: Strictly Ballroom
I would like to acknowledge all of the parents, staff and students who were involved in the amazing production of the musical, Strictly Ballroom, last Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. From the props, to the costumes, to the set, to the lighting, to the makeup (and hair!), to the music, to the acting, to the singing and, of course, to the dancing, it was a production of the highest calibre.
While I congratulate all of the students who shone on the stage, I would like to make a special mention of the large number of students who were involved in the crew, worked backstage or were in the orchestra pit. It was amazing to see so many students leading these production areas of a school musical and while they might not be “in the bright lights”, their contributions are truly appreciated. I would also like to thank the many staff members and parents who have given so much of their time and effort in making this year’s musical such a success.
Thank you for thoroughly entertaining us – love was certainly in the air as we loved the show!
Military Road Construction
Please click here for an update on the Military Road construction works.
Student Safety Message from the Deputy Principal
Please click here to view an important message from the Deputy Principal, Ms Sarah McGarry.
Term 2 Departures
If your children will be leaving Redlands during or at the end of Term 2, could you please provide notice to the Principal (via email to registrar@redlands.nsw.edu.au) by tomorrow Friday 5 April. As per our Terms and Conditions, any Term 2 departures notified after this date will incur one term’s fees in lieu.
Tim Flannery Presentation
Mr Sean Corcoran
Head of Secondary School
scorcoran@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9870