From the Principal

It was wonderful to see so many members of our community come together for the Festival of Redlands on Saturday. While the weather was playing tricks on us throughout the day and forced us to adapt and change course at times, it certainly didn’t dampen the energy or the positive school spirit on display for all to see.

My highlights were:

• Speaking to many parents and carers and hearing your positive reflections of Redlands
• Watching the senior students lead various sports activities for our younger students
• Seeing the youngest dancers swarm around the stage to yell and cheer for our older dancers performing
• And speaking to the many Redlanders who came to share in the festivities at their alma mater – whether they were the graduates from over 50 years ago who shared stories with me about their time at the School or the graduate from the Class of 2018 who made the point of telling me how his journey post school would not have been possible without the education and experiences he had at Redlands.

My lowlight was certainly my terrible shooting against our 1sts players in the basketball competition, but it was good to see their higher standard at least!

Again, a huge thank you to everyone involved from the RPFA, Friends of Groups, other parents, students, alumni and the many staff whose tremendous efforts made the event such a success.

Over the past week I have had the opportunity to share some of my reflections on leadership to our newly minted Year 12 students – both at the final dinner of their Camp last Thursday and at their leadership induction assembly on Tuesday. It has been exciting to see this cohort quickly step into their roles as valued leaders of our Secondary School so authentically and expertly.

At their assembly, I specifically acknowledge those new Year 12 students who might have missed out on a formal leadership position or who would prefer to just be a part of the supporting cast behind the scenes than a lead up front. I reminded them that they are all important leaders as Year 12 students and to look to find their own moments to shine. Working together they will help to create that authentic and infectious school spirit and energy that will shape the culture of the year ahead.

I believe the legacy of the Class of 2025 will not be determined by the impact of a few, but rather by the collective influence of many, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this Year Group will make at the School over the next 12 months.

Mr Sean Corcoran 

Photo caption: A big thank you to everyone who joined us at the Festival of Redlands on Saturday! It was wonderful to see such a great community turn out to celebrate 140 years of Redlands education.

Community Update

Wow and thank you to our dedicated and passionate community volunteers, led by our effervescent RPFA, for their mighty effort in developing and delivering our highly anticipated Festival of Redlands. It was fantastic to see our community of alumni, students, staff, parents and friends come together to enjoy, celebrate and participate in the many activities and performances that took place throughout the day in celebration of our 140^th year. Congratulations to all involved and well done Roseby for taking out the Festival of Redlands Cup. 

It was a pleasure to attend the Junior and Secondary School Parent Contact Group (PCG) Meetings this week. Our PCGs, along with other volunteer positions and groups, continue to keep our community connected, included and supported within the many and varied aspects of school life. A reminder that parents and carers are invited and encouraged to attend the Redlands Parents and Friends Association Annual General Meeting (AGM) to be held in Room 2.3 on Level 2 of the Learning Hub (Senior Campus) this evening. This is a great opportunity for new parents to hear how our Association works within, and for, our valued community with annual updates provided by our Principal and the President of the Redlands Parents and Friends Association. 

Thank you for your continued guidance and support and as ever, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Community Engagement team, or to me directly, should you have any feedback, suggestions or questions.

Grant Birse
Head of Community Engagement
9908 6406
gbirse@redlands.nsw.edu.au

Foundation

Spring Online Auction and Premium Degustation Raffle are LIVE!

This online auction and raffle are open to all members of our community and proceeds will be dedicated to the means-tested Coralie Amos OAM Scholarship. Some amazing prizes not to be missed, donated by members of our wider community.

Exclusive degustation dining for 8 by Big Sam Young at home or in private dining room of S’More at Castlecrag.

Both auction and raffle  will close at 3.30pm on Tuesday 5 November as part of the Melbourne Cup Luncheon. 250 tickets only @ $50 each.

Auction bid HERE

Raffle tickets HERE

Thank you all for contributing and participating!

Festival of Redlands

What a terrific celebration when the wider Redlands community came together to pay homage to our wonderful School and its long and distinguished history with 140 years of Redlands education.

Prep School and Redlands House Art Auction

What an incredible effort from our youngest artists! Each unique piece, a testament to the creativity and passion of our young artists, found a new home, with every artwork sold! An amazing achievement, raising over $6,500 towards the High Country Campus!

Thank you to everyone who participated, bid, and supported our budding artists.

Wishing Tree at the Piazza

We are thrilled to share the success of our very first Wishing Tree initiative during the Festival of Redlands! Families and friends came together to write heartfelt notes of love, good wishes and celebration, choosing colourful ribbons representing varied values to transform our tree into a stunning tapestry of goodwill.

Every message written and hung from the branches contributed to the High Country Campus Appeal, supporting the expansion of facilities for our students and staff.

Redlander Alumni Café

A traditional place for all our community to get together led by the Redlander Alumni Association! Plenty of home baked cakes, brownies and biscuits were enjoyed and we are grateful to all the current parents for their extraordinary effort in delivering such an enormous quantity of treats!

Particular thanks to the following alumni:

Our special guest alumni Dr Sue Morey AM RL 1959 and Coralie Amos OAM 1964, after whom our current means tested scholarships has been named, for joining us.

Wonderful volunteers MC Mia Kloiser-Jones RL 2022, Katina Casimaty RL 2022 and Jameson Prescott RL 2021.

Alumni Café Volunteers Jennifer Farrell RL 1962, Vicky Kvisle 1974, Robin Brown RL 1974, Tracy Wolf RL 1986, Natalie Davies 1987 (Redlanders President), Lisa Wolf-Jones RL 1990, Kylie Abineno RL 1991, Tiffany Wong RL 1992, Gillian Bain RL 1993, and Cristy Riddell RL 1997.

Maddie Godsell RL 2017, who helped younger students make beautiful Christmas Cards for those in our community who may not otherwise receive one.

Redlands Melbourne Cup Luncheon – Only a Few Tickets Left

Bookings will close on Monday 28 October.

BOOK HERE

Mrs Dana Casimaty
Director of Development
dcasimaty@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9858

Redlands Parents and Friends

Festival of Redlands Appreciation

On behalf of the RPFA, we wanted to send our utmost appreciation for all the time and effort committed to making the first ever Festival of Redlands a roaring success! Many hours were dedicated to working together as an entire community across school staff, alumni, the Redlands Parents and Friends Association and extended parent and student volunteers.

Whether it was the eight months of hard work meticulously sorting each detail by the planning committee, the awesome bunting creation team, our wonderful marketing staff’s help to promote the event in the lead up, or the amazing Jackie who volunteered the entire day to help us run our international food from the canteen, the rowing captains for running the erg competitions, our fabulous music, dance and drama staff or those volunteers tireless checking tickets to each activity on the day. Sweet thanks to Nadine Papageorgiou for spearheading the delicious cupcakes and treats kindly provided by Prep and Junior School families and also the terrific team who organised and supported the ninja challenge across the campus playground equipment. Thank you also to the academic staff who showcased the wonderful academic achievements of the school. In particular, big thanks to Ms Kimberlee Chipper, Ms Kathy Reid, Ms Argiro Anagnostou and Ms Vanessa Wang for their hard work. Everyone involved put forth their best effort and the strength and passion of our Redlands community and culture brightly shone through!

We truly came together in a concerted effort to bring to life an event that celebrated our rich history, current strengths and exciting future and we can’t thank everyone enough for the time, effort and passion committed. Our goal of “Shining a Light on 140 Years” of our school was most definitely met and exceeded!

Finally, on a much wider scale, we wanted to make sure to extend our utmost appreciation to ALL of our extended RPFA and the many other parent volunteers who work tirelessly throughout the year. Including but certainly not limited to the following: Nancie Pageau, Marnie Wright, Jennie Cadman, Mayumi Staley-Lobo, Jenny Krallis and Jen Harris for PCG coordination and to all the class and year parents for their efforts; Karen Nicholson and Monika Crennan for FoG coordination and to all the chairs of FoGs and active FoG members; Anna Maria Stillone for coordinating Twilight Drinks; Kate Kesby for the second hand book sale, Emma Okhovat for Humanitix; all the exam scribes, classroom/excursion volunteers, mentors, all the second hand uniform sorters, washers, menders and sales assistants, Specifically JP Forrest, Rebecca James and Jo Lloyd, Michelle McDonald and Sophia Stewart-Kasimba for RPFA comms including Note Day and Pulse and finally to the RPFA Executive Committee for all your support, drive and commitment to making our School even better. We truly have a very special culture here at Redlands and couldn’t do what we do without every single one of you. THANK YOU!!

Your 2023/2024 RPFA Committee

Redlands Melbourne Cup Luncheon 2024

This year the tradition continues as we host the event that stops the nation at Sergeants’ Mess in Chowder Bay overlooking stunning Sydney Harbour. Join us for an unforgettable afternoon with French Champagne on arrival, a gourmet three course meal with fine wines, raffles and sweeps, entertainment and fashions on the field.

Buy yours here.

Upcoming Parent / Family Get-togethers 

Contact us to list your event.

Walks on Tracks

Weekly guided walks around the northern Sydney area are organised by Ann Marie, a wonderful RPFA volunteer. This is a great way to meet other Redlands parents and get in shape, plus a wonderful way to spend a morning discovering the many paths of the Sydney area.

The invitation for walks is open, so if you have friends or family who you think would like to come along, please feel free to bring them. Dogs are also welcome on most walks, look for the ???? below .

Walks start at 8.40am and are roughly 1 1/2- 2 hours. For those with the time, we love to stop for a coffee afterwards. In case you’re running late, just text Ann Marie so they can wait for you. Walks for the remainder of the year:

Any questions, please contact Ann Marie on 0406 691 533. See you walking!

Book Club

The Redlands Book Club is a group of Redlands parents – past and present – who share a love of reading. New members are always welcome! The Book Club meets twice each school term to discuss a book, rotating among members’ homes. Occasionally, outings are also organised to events, movies or shows that are tied in with books. If you would like to join Book Club, and learn where we are meeting this month or simply want to know more, please contact Monica or Sabiha.

Our next meeting will be on Wednesday 30 October at 7pm, when we will be discussing Safe Haven by Shankari Chandran.

Seen a book you’re dying to read and discuss? Recommend it for our next read!

Unplugged AI

This Term 4, two of our wonderful Class Parents, Daniella Aburto and Anita Fonseca will be facilitating an “Unplugged AI” lunch club for Prep school kids! Over six fun-filled sessions, students from K-2 will explore the basics of Artificial Intelligence through engaging games and hands-on activities—no devices needed! They’ll develop key skills like critical thinking while having fun with friends. They’d love for your kids to join them on Fridays at lunchtime as they dive into AI in a playful, screen-free way!

The Week in Pictures

A couple of shots of our RPFA President with the star of the show, the birthday cake, and Treasurer and BBQ master, both hard at work at the Festival of Redlands…and some committee kiddos also put to work on the best stand at the event (in their minds); along with a selection of other photos that capture the spirit of the day. 

Do you have event pics you want to share? Please send them to RPFA Note Day.

RPFA Committee

President: Brittne Whitelaw
Vice President: Carrie Taylor
Secretary: Jennifer Mast
Treasurer: Joe Russo
Committee: Monika Crennan, Michelle McDonald, Lisa Middlebrook, Karen Nicholson, Emma Okhovat, Sophia Stewart-Kasimba 

Head of Secondary School

Student Leadership at Redlands

The 2025 Year 12 Induction Assembly took place earlier this week and the entire School community were exceptional in their support of, and respect for, our incoming student leaders. Each Year 12 student received their Year 12 badge and those with specific leadership responsibilities received a certificate, leadership badge and blessing, shown below.

Today, we commission you as Redlands Captains for 2025. 

We embrace your leadership of our community and know you will demonstrate and nurture the Redlands values in your words and actions. 

As servant leaders you are called to be a light to those around you – to support, guide and inspire. We encourage you to ‘let your light shine’ so that others may see your good deeds and be motivated by your words and actions.  

May God guide and bless you to lead with humility and hope. 

It’s always an exciting time when a new Year 12 cohort commences their final year of school. The Camp experiences is a catalyst for this new beginning and it has been a joy to hear students speak of forming new friendships with their peers and the anticipation of what lies ahead. At the Induction Assembly this week, I leaned into Joan Chittister, one of my favourite theologians, who has these messages for leaders.

Firstly, don’t ask who the leaders are. Be one. If we want change and growth in our schools or community, we must not look for someone else to create change or bring about growth. We must be willing to step up to lead the change or pursue the growth. Secondly, have the courage to disagree. It is alright to say, “I think differently about that” because we cannot create change or achieve growth if we are not willing to have differences. Also, use your gifts. Do not sit quietly while your gifts lie dormant. The world is waiting on you. You have been created with gifts and a purpose. If there is something you want to change, activate your gifts. A reminder to stop making excuses. People often make excuses for not being a leader: claiming perfectionism, or being too sensitive to criticism, or even being too busy. We are reminded that “You cannot complain about something, if you do nothing to fix it”. And finally, get educated. You cannot use the reason, “I don’t know what the issue is or how to help.” Gather 5 people together, get educated about something then do something about it. 

Mr Corcoran’s speech about his own experience of leadership disappointment was discerning and honest. Regardless of what the Class of 2025 achieve over the next 12 months, how they step into the space of leadership and grow from this will be the mark of their character. We are all so hopeful of how they will let their light shine.

Mary’s House Walk: Sunday 27 October – 8:30 am

Many of our students are supporting Mary’s House and registering to take part in the walk this Sunday.

It’s not too late to register or donate to the team (whether you are a student, staff member, parent or friend) by following this link! The walk is 8.8km starting and finishing in St Leonard’s Park, North Sydney. Registration costs $85/adult and is free for those under 18. If you would like to donate, please follow the same link.

If you are joining us, please be at St Leonard’s Park, North Sydney by 8:30am for check-in. Look for the Redlands banner!

The Great Book Swap for Indigenous Literacy Foundation: Friday 1 November

Redlands is also holding a Great Book Swap on Friday 1 November in support of the Indigenous Literacy Foundation who work with remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to provide the tools and resources they request to shape the direction of their children’s future and to publish their own stories, often in First Languages.

Students are asked to bring in a second-hand book that is in good-condition and a gold coin donation over the course of Week 2 and 3 to then be part of the swap. Please see the Service section of Note Day for more information.

Meet the Academic Coach – Sabrina Blasco (Redlander, Class of 2023)

Sabrina supports students across Year 7 to 11 at the Illuminate Scholars Program. Learn more about her below in this Q&A.

Q: What was your favourite subject at school?

A: My favourite subject at school was English. I especially loved the texts I studied in Years 11 and 12.

 Q: What is your favourite subject to tutor and what subjects do you tutor?

A: I tutor lots of different subjects, including English, Biology, History, Theatre and some Maths. I specialise in IB subjects, including Theory of Knowledge, and can help with other IB-specific skills such as CAS and the Extended Essay. My favourite subject to tutor is either Biology or History because I love to explore how bigger concepts connect to each other in explaining processes or cause-and-effect claims.

Q: What’s your best study tip for exam preparation?

A: Use past papers! They are the best guide to the format and content of your exams. By reading over and marking your past papers you can easily identify the areas where you need more support, making your study more efficient. They can also develop your exam technique (like reading questions carefully and answering depending on rubrics), as well as help you get used to organising your time during exams and managing stress.

Q: What’s your favourite study method?

A: Definitely the blurt method. You get a blank piece of paper and choose a topic, then you blurt out all the information you remember about this topic (you can use diagrams, dot points, mind maps etc.) After this compare your paper to the syllabus points of class notes on this topic and fill in the blanks. Repeat until you remember all the content! I find this is helpful because it can demonstrate that you usually know more than you think and so it improves confidence and gives you the motivation to keep going. Also having the freedom to just blurt out all the information you have can take some of the pressure off making perfect notes and is a cathartic way to start revising.

Q: What are you studying at university? What do you like most about it?

A: I am majoring in English and Ancient History at the University of Sydney. The thing I like most about my degree is the broad range of texts that I get to read, including classic and modern literature, ancient sources (such as poems and inscriptions), and the academic articles that link them all together.

Wellbeing Support Seminar for Secondary School Parents

Ms Gemma Van de Peer
Head of Secondary School
gvandepeer@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9811 

Cocurricular Clubs

A Call Out to all Senior Leaders for the Big Sister Club

As your children enter their final year at Redlands, we encourage them to explore the wide range of cocurricular opportunities available. One such initiative is the Big Sister Club, which fosters connection and mentorship between Year 12 students and younger Year Groups.

The Big Sister Club provides a supportive environment where younger students can seek advice on managing school assignments, handling stress and balancing their school life. It’s a valuable opportunity for Year 12 students to share their knowledge, mentor their younger peers and make a lasting, positive impact on the school community.

We are currently seeking Year 12 students to join the Big Sister Club as mentors. Their involvement can help create a welcoming and inclusive space for our younger students, while also building leadership skills and deepening connections within the Redlands community.

If your child is interested in becoming a mentor, they can contact their Year Advisor, Ms Lisa Vale and Ms Meta Regis for more information. We appreciate your support in encouraging their participation.

Thank you to Helena Lewis and Miriam Killin from Year 7 for sharing their insights at the Year 12 Year Assembly on Monday. 

Stagecraft in Action: A Journey to Performance

Senior Acting Club has provided a creative outlet for our talented students every Monday lunchtime in the Drama Studio. Over the term, students have honed their acting skills and dedicated themselves to rehearsing a variety of plays, showcasing their passion for the performing arts. Each rehearsal has been filled with energy, creativity and collaboration as students explore different characters and theatrical techniques.

In the second last week of term, the culmination of their hard work will be presented to cocurricular performing arts students and staff. This performance will allow the Senior Acting members to share their progress and artistic development, bringing their characters to life on stage. We are excited to see how each student’s unique interpretation will contribute to a memorable performance that celebrates the spirit of creativity and teamwork within the Senior Acting Club.

A special thanks to Ms Amber Virtue for her guidance and support throughout the term, ensuring the success of the students’ performances.

Nick Walker
Coordinator of Activities
nwalker@redlands.nsw.edu.au 

Service

Mary’s House Walk: Sunday 27 October – 8:30am

As you read last week, Redlands is proud to be supporting Mary’s House, a local and completely community-funded organisation who provide immediate critical care, safety and shelter, and then access to legal and financial services, to women and families impacted by domestic violence.

Their 8.8km walk is this Sunday. It is wonderful to see lots of students have already registered. It’s not too late to sign up – whether you’re a student or a family member, please join the Redlands team by following this link. Registration costs $85/adult and is free for those under 18. If you would like to donate, please follow the same link.

If you are joining us, please be at St Leonard’s Park, North Sydney by 8:30am for check-in. Look for the Redlands banner!

The Great Book Swap for Indigenous Literacy Foundation: Friday 1 November

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation invests in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities to provide the tools and resources they request to shape the direction of their children’s future. They run three core programs including: Book Buzz that aims to develop pre-literacy skills and familiarity with books for babies and toddlers, Book Supply that gifts books that aim to interest and engage the Community in reading and sharing books together and Community Publishing that supports adults and children to write and illustrate their own stories in their own language.

On Friday 1 November, the Senior School is holding a Great Book Swap to raise money for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. This will involve students bringing in a gold coin donation and a book for the swap. The idea is that students bring a book to then get a book!

Students know which day they need to bring in their book. It would be wonderful if parents could please support them to remember!

Books should be:

• good condition (we want second-hand books but they shouldn’t be ruined)
• age appropriate (for someone in Year 7 – 11)
• fiction or nonfiction including graphic novels but NOT a magazine or a textbook or a book read for school
• something interesting that another student in the school will like

Ms Rosanna Peterson
HSIE Teacher
rpeterson@redlands.nsw.edu.au

Year 11

Year 11 Camp

Last week, Year 11 students attended their final school camp in Jindabyne, where they built resilience, teamwork and leadership skills. The week fostered new friendships and strengthened existing ones, leaving students with a greater sense of community and preparation for their final year.

Camp Reflection

This year, I was part of one of the two cross-country ski groups for camp. While the limited amount of snow unfortunately meant that we didn’t get to participate in cross-country skiing, we made the most of the experience and had a fantastic time.

Throughout the week, there were countless moments of laughter, and we created many unforgettable memories. Some highlights included singing dozens of songs as we hiked, playing Werewolf under the tarp while it hailed and rained and finding snow at the top of South Rams Head, which led to a massive snowball fight in which everyone participated. These are just a few of the countless moments that made Year 11 camp truly unforgettable.

However, what would camp be without a challenge? The greatest challenge this year was hiking to the peak of South Rams Head. The climb required us to gain almost 1,000 meters in elevation in a single day. Many of us struggled with the steep ascent, but with plenty of breaks, encouragement and the determination to reach the top, we pushed through and were rewarded by the snow.

Our fondest memory happened on the fourth day of camp. After a long hike along the Thredbo River, we reached our pick-up area but still had two hours until the bus arrived. We set our packs down near the river and decided to go for a dip. While I only waded my feet, others fully submerged in the water, enjoying a well earned break from the long hikes we had endured in the days prior.

And although every single one of our not so “Cross-Country Ski” group was exhausted by the end of the week, there was one thing that we could all agree on: Our Year 11 camp was filled with fun memories and was one that we will certainly never forget.

Filip Feller

After spending time at camp, pushing their limits, exploring the outdoors, and testing themselves, Year 11 demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and determination. Camp offered them a glimpse of what lay ahead in Year 12 – a year that would be filled with growth, challenges and the opportunity to build on everything they had learned so far.

As they reflected on their final year of school, they recognised that it would be a time to shape the legacy they leave behind. It would be a year to celebrate friendships, strive for both personal and academic success and embrace every moment. Just like on camp, the year ahead would present obstacles, but each challenge would become an opportunity for growth, learning and emerging stronger.

 And of course, we can’t forget the new Year 12 Jerseys!

Year 12 Induction

Now presenting Year 12 2025!

Year 12 Student Leaders

A huge congratulations to our 2025 Student Leaders on their induction as Portfolio Captains, House Captains and Captains of Activities! We know you’ll shine as inspiring role models and lead the School with passion and energy throughout the coming year.

Ms Lisa Vale
Yr 11 Advisor
9968 9837
lvale@redlands.nsw.edu.au  

Year 10

Year 10 Assistant Year Advisor

I am delighted to announce the appointment of Ms Victoria Mukherjee as the new Assistant Year Advisor for Year 10. Ms. Mukherjee joined Redlands in 2022 as a dedicated and passionate English teacher. Her enthusiasm for both her subject and the broader learning experience is evident, and she is excited to take on this new role, offering support to our Year 10 cohort. She looks forward to helping them grow, learn, and prepare for their future roles as leaders within the school community.

Service to the School Community

In recent weeks, several Year 10 students participated in connection sessions with our Year 6 students. These sessions provided an opportunity for our cohort  to run games and activities, making them familiar faces for the Junior School students who will join Year 7 in 2025. I would like to extend my thanks to the many Year 10 students who generously volunteered their time. Their efforts were greatly appreciated and helped to create a warm and welcoming environment for the younger students.

Code of Conduct

I am also pleased to report that the transition to the new smart device policy has been largely positive. While there have been a few sanctions, the majority of students have adapted well, embracing the opportunity for more face-to-face conversations, laughter and outdoor activities during recess and lunch. It’s wonderful to see such positive changes and I am confident this trend will continue as students adjust to the policy.

As we move through Term 4, we would like to remind all students of the importance of maintaining high standards of uniform. With summer uniform now in effect, blazers are required for formal assemblies and students should ensure that their shirts are tucked in, and for formal occasions, ties are tied properly and top buttons fastened. Jewellery should be worn in accordance with the code of conduct and chewing gum is not permitted on school grounds. A reminder that any requests from staff to fix uniforms, such as tying ties or buttoning shirts, will result in a demerit. Accumulating three demerits will lead to an after school detention.

We appreciate your support in reinforcing these expectations.

Upcoming Service Opportunities

Mary’s House Walk 

Mary’s House Services was founded in 2015-16 by a dedicated group of residents from Sydney’s northern suburbs. The Mary’s House refuge was established to address the significant gap in government funded services and to save lives in the region by providing support for women and children to feel safe, hopeful, and empowered to begin rebuilding their lives. 

The Walk 

Sign up here to join the Redlands Team.  

• It’s free for students: register and come along to walk for awareness.  
• Do that little bit extra and raise some money for Mary’s House/ask people to sponsor you to walk. 
• Get your family/other adults to come along: $85 registration 

Mr Richard Millham
Acting Yr 10 Advisor
rmillham@redlands.nsw.edu.au

Year 9

Year 9 Exam Block

Congratulations to the whole Year 9 cohort for the way that they have conducted themselves this week in completing their exams. 

I know that many students have found the week to be a big academic challenge, especially in Days 3 and 4, however a significant amount of determination and grit has been shown to complete each task to the best of their ability by many students and we look forward to seeing the result of these efforts come in over the next few weeks. 

Year 9 Camp

With camp fast approaching in Week 4, Year 9 will have their full camp briefing this Friday (25/10) during Tutor time. Please watch for any updates to come prior to our departure. 

Winter School 2025

Mr Atkins will be speaking with Year 9 students about our Winter School 2025 program in the coming weeks. Following this, an Expression of Interest form will be made available via iLearn for students who wish to apply. Once students have expressed their interest, we will provide further communication to both students and parents regarding the application process, which will commence towards the end of Term 4. Parents can access the Winter School information page via Redlands Pulse. 

The Great Book Swap

On Friday 1 November at lunchtime, Redlands is hosting the Great Book Swap for Indigenous Literacy Foundation. The ILF are working with remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to deliver culturally appropriate books, meet their literacy needs (particularly of infants) and enable the production of books written by adults and children in the Communities, often in First Languages.   

We are asking for your help to make this a success. The idea is that each student brings in a book (and a gold coin donation) to then enter the Great Book Swap and take a book.  

The book needs to be:  

• In good condition (we want second-hand books, but they shouldn’t be ruined)  

• age appropriate (for someone in Year 7 – 11) 

• fiction or non-fiction including graphic novels but NOT a magazine or a textbook 

• something interesting that another student in the school will like 

Please help your child to bring this book and a gold coin donation in on Wednesday the 30th of November.   

You may like to donate further to our Great Book Swap here. 

Schools for Impact

 In Term 4 of this year, Year 9 students will take part in a Schools for Impact program. 

The Schools for Impact program is designed by Impact100 Sydney: a giving circle that funds specialist, local charities to dream big and transform the lives of people in need in our city. Under the Schools for Impact program, the aim is to encourage and empower students to learn about, and fundraise for, a particular problem space. This year, Impact100 is helping to fund charities focused on Employment Pathways for Vulnerable Communities.  

The program is a powerful Service Learning opportunity as students embark on not only purposeful fundraising, but dedicated learning about an important social cause in Sydney. It also gives them agency to make educated decisions about where their raised funds go.  

The program culminates in an excursion to Sydney University which will take place on Thursday 21 November. You will be receiving more information about the program and excursion in the coming week.

Mr Tobias Horan
Yr 9 Advisor
9968 9872
thoran@redlands.nsw.edu.au

Year 8

Embracing Mindfulness

This week, we began a focus on mindfulness in our Tutor sessions. Mindfulness is the awareness that occurs when you focus on the present and on the purpose of what you are doing. Studies have proven that mindfulness has both physical and psychological benefits. Our hope in building students’ capacity for mindfulness is that it will help them better self-manage their attention and engagement in the classroom and hopefully also assist with harnessing their focus in their upcoming examinations.

To introduce the concept, students practised three key activities with their Tutor groups – mindful breathing, a mindful safari and guided imagery. We will continue to refine their knowledge and capacity for mindfulness, so that it can become another tool in our students’ arsenal.

Wishing Dr Rajeev all the Best

On Friday, Cowper Yellow bid farewell to their Tutor, Dr Rajeev, as she moves off to spend some time away from Redlands on maternity leave. Students were thankful for all the support she has offered them these past two years and wished her well for the new parenting adventure that awaits her. For the remainder of the year, Cowper Yellow’s new Tutor team will be Ms Karen Pittard and Mr Tony Callaghan.

It turns out that Dr Rajeev timed her departure well, as she was then to have her baby the very next day! Mother and child are both healthy, and we wish her all the best for a successful time away with her new baby and her family.

Leadership Induction Assembly

On Tuesday, the School officially acknowledged the transition of our Yr 11 cohort into Yr 12 and inducted the new student leadership team in an important formal assembly. Our new School Captains, Aneke and Liam, spoke to students about the importance of embracing the opportunities offered at Redlands to become their best selves, and encouraged them to make the most out of the term ahead. I hope students were inspired by seeing their new captains and I look forward to the day when we see them walking across the stage to embrace leadership roles within the School.

Debating with Industry Professionals

On Wednesday, two Yr 8 students, Gabby Thomas and Vivienne Matthews, debated in front of an audience of 100 tech industry professionals, leaders and teachers on the argument that cybersecurity poses a greater threat to digital users than AI. Led by Ms Bailey and coached by Jacqui Kernot (Security Director for Accenture), the girls researched and prepared their case. They were up against a strong team from SCECGS Darlinghurst and came out victorious, offering wonderful insights into the personal and economic impact of cyber attacks. 

A huge congratulations to Gabby and Vivienne for their outstanding work! Thank you to Ms Bailey and Ms Kernot for coordinating this opportunity for them.

Creative Writing Success

In Term 3, Roseby Library staff held a writing competition to celebrate Book Week. Students were required to write a response to a stimulus prompt for The Library of Lost Souls. Students needed to imagine a hidden library filled with books that contain forgotten spells and ancient secrets, and compose a tale about a young reader who accidentally unleashes one of these spells. What happens next, and how do they navigate the magical consequences?

Congratulations to Alexis Castan and Ada Grossman who both wrote enthralling pieces and were awarded certificates and received Dymocks book vouchers as prizes for their excellent work.

Double Double, Toil and Trouble

This week, Yr 8 English classes continued to move through their study of Shakespeare’s tragedy Macbeth, with many engaging in small performances to draw out their understanding of how Shakespeare creates characters and constructs meaning through his stagecraft and language devices. The famous ‘double double, toil and trouble’ witches’ chant scene was a favourite for 8B as students watched several groups perform with interesting props for spell ingredients, a cauldron and, of course, (eclectic) witches’ hats.

Drama Showcase Event

Congratulations to all the Yr 8 Drama students who held a showcase last night on the Fahl Garden, presenting pieces they have been working on this term and last. It is always lovely to hear of the amazing talent we have in our cohort for the Arts and I look forward to seeing many of our Yr 8 go on to perform in further school productions! Thank you to all the Drama staff who helped to coordinate the event. Be sure to check this space next week for photos from the event!

Indigenous Literacy Foundation – Week 3 Events

Next week, on Friday 1 November, at lunchtime, Redlands is hosting the Great Book Swap for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. The ILF are working with remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to deliver culturally appropriate books, meet their literacy needs (particularly of infants) and enable the production of books written by adults and children in the Communities, often in First Languages.

We are asking for your help to make this a great success! The idea is that on Wednesday each student will bring in a book and a gold coin donation. Then, on Friday, students will be able to enter the Great Book Swap and take a different book home with them to read and enjoy.

The book students bring in for the book swap needs to be:

• in good condition (we want second-hand books but they shouldn’t be ruined)
• age appropriate (for someone in Yrs 7 – 11)
• fiction or non-fiction including graphic novels (but NOT a magazine or a subject textbook)
• something interesting that another student in the school may like

Please help to remind your child to bring this book and a gold coin donation in next Wednesday (unfortunately, EFTPOS will not be available).

You may like to donate further to our Great Book Swap here.  

Examinations in Week 4

A reminder that students will commence their Yearly Examinations in Week 4. These examinations will be a good opportunity for students to test out the knowledge and skills they have learned in their courses of study. I wish students all the best with their study and preparation for these examinations and encourage them to reach out to their subject teachers for support and guidance, should they require it. Further information about examinations, including the Week 4 examination timetable, can be found on Pulse.

Smart Devices at Redlands

This term, Redlands adjusted its policy on the use of smart devices within the school environment. Acknowledging the research of experts such as Jonathan Haidt who states that “smartphones act as experience blockers. Once introduced into a child’s life, they diminish other forms of non-smartphone-based experiences, which are crucial for their developing brains” (‘The Anxious Generation’ 2024), the school has now established itself as a smart device free environment.

Smart devices, particularly smart phones, are no longer permitted in any setting while students are at school or engaged in school-related activities during Term 4. Smartphones are to remain in student lockers and students will not be permitted to have their smartphone on their person at any time during the school day. Full details can be found in Ms Van de Peer’s Term 4 welcome letter on Pulse.

Students have been rising to the occasion here and working well to curb their use of smart devices. I look forward to the cohort continuing to embrace this change and benefiting from their increased person to person interactions with one another.

Term 4 Key Dates and Upcoming Events

• Year 8-11 Book Swap Assembly – Week 3: Tuesday 29 October
• Indigenous Literacy Book Swap Event – Week 3: Friday 1 November
• Year 8 Examinations – Week 4: Monday 4 November – Wednesday 6 November
• Moonbah: Gearing for Growth evening – Week 6: Monday 18 November
• Speech Night (and Term End) – Week 8: Wednesday 4 December

Mr Jimmy Tod-Hill
Year 8 Advisor
jtodhill@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9908 6462

Year 7

United Nations Youth Voice Competition

On Saturday, 19 October, Yr 7 students Aashray So and Paolo Corneli participated in the United Nations Youth Voice Competition, held at the University of Technology Sydney. Students explored topics ranging from helping Australian schools keep pace with technological development to combatting the issue of loneliness. They not only showcased their speaking skills but also pitched innovative and creative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Aashray reflected on his experience as below.

“To reflect on my experience, I would say it was a very enlightening activity. I came to understand that writing a speech is not as simple as it seems. You can write it but you’re not done there. You must edit and revise it, add humor and facts, research the topic and overall put a lot of work into it. I think that my process was very enjoyable as I was interested in my topic ( how the loneliness epidemic can be combatted) and was excited to present my hard work into a supportive yet still competitive environment. Overall, it was very enjoyable, and I would definitely do it again.”

New Zealand Exchange 

We are excited to announce that in Term 1 next year, four Redlands students from the 2025 Year 8 cohort will have the chance to participate in an exchange program with Kristin School in Auckland, New Zealand. For more information about Kristin, visit Kristin School’s website. 

This exchange is perfect for students who are actively involved in school life and eager to represent Redlands abroad. 

Selected students will travel to Auckland for three weeks, from 1 February to 23 February, 2025. They will live with a Kristin host family, attend the Kristin Year Group Camp for one week, and join classes with their host partner for the remaining two weeks. 

In turn, Kristin students will visit Sydney from 8 March to 30 March, staying with their exchange partner and family, participating in Year 8 Camp and attending classes. Please ensure you are available to host during this period if you apply. 

Host families provide accommodation, meals and transport. Ideally, exchange students should have their own room. Costs for Redlands students include return flights arranged through the school and any spending money. 

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed to assess suitability and match with exchange partners. Spaces are limited, and acceptance will depend on the availability of suitable partners with shared interests. 

We look forward to this enriching opportunity for our students! 

Year 7 STEAM Event: Bee-yond the Hive 

Get ready for an exciting Year 7 STEAM event happening from 31 October to 1 November. This year’s theme is Bee-yond the Hive, featuring a variety of lessons and activities centered around the fascinating world of bees. Students will explore the lifecycle of bees, pollination, threats to bee populations, biodiversity, and even the innovative use of AI and Arduinos to build a beehive sentry. 

We are thrilled to partner with Rooftop Bees and Integrated STEM, who will lead the specialist lessons during these two days. To make this event even more enriching, we invite parents and community members to volunteer their time to support students as they engage in these interactive lessons. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn alongside the students about bees, AI and technology! 

The event will culminate in a Creative Challenge, where students can showcase their knowledge and understanding in a hands-on, innovative manner 

We look forward to an engaging and educational event that will inspire our students and deepen their understanding of the vital role bees play in our ecosystem. 

Bee-yond the Hive Lessons: 

Exploring AI 

Students will develop a ‘classifier’ algorithm to help computers make agricultural decisions, such as creating a beehive sentry.  

Arduino Beehive Sentry 

Students will gain hands-on experience building an Arduino-based system to automate the detection and capture of beehive pests. 

Rooftop Bees Tour 

A guided tour of the beehives on the Learning Hub rooftop will teach students about the importance of bees, their challenges and their role in ecosystems and sustainability. 

Science Experiment 

Students will investigate honey composition using a refractometer to measure sugar content. They will compare different honeys for sweetness, viscosity and colour, while discussing nectar sources and their impact on honey characteristics. 

Honey/Coffee Scrub 

Students will create a Honey/Coffee ground scrub using locally sourced ingredients and explore ingredient sourcing and the principles of a circular economy. 

Research 

Research packs and questions will be provided to deepen students’ understanding of bees’ life cycles, pollination, threats, conservation, and habitats. 

Leadership Induction Assembly

On Tuesday, the School officially acknowledged the transition of our Yr 11 cohort into Yr 12 and inducted the new student leadership team in an important formal assembly. Our new School Captains, Aneke and Liam, spoke to students about the importance of embracing the opportunities offered at Redlands to become their best selves, and encouraged them to make the most out of the term ahead. I hope students were inspired by seeing their new captains and I look forward to the day when we see them walking across the stage to embrace leadership roles within the school.

Shout Outs

A huge thank you to Lina Lewis and Miriam Killin for speaking at the Yr 11 Assembly this week about the Big Sister Club. They are very passionate about this cocurricular club and are keen to get some extra Yr 11 Students on board as mentors to the younger Year Groups.

Well done to Aryana Mishra-Mall who won the recent Book Week writing competition titled The Library of Lost Spells. Imagine a hidden library filled with books that contain forgotten spells and ancient secrets. Students were encouraged to write about a young reader who accidentally unleashes one of these spells. Excitingly, these entries will be published in the next edition of the Roseby Review Newsletter later this term.

NSW School Vaccination Program 2024

Each year NSW Health works in partnership with schools to offer the vaccines recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) for adolescents as part of the school vaccination program.

The following vaccines are offered free to Year 7 students at school on:

• Thursday 7 November – Year 7 – diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (dTpa)
• Thursday 28 November – Year 7 – human papillomavirus (HPV)

Students who miss the first clinic date will be offered a catch up opportunity on Thursday 28 November.

Vaccination will only be provided at school if consent has been received.  To provide consent for vaccination online go here, you will need:

• your ServiceNSW log-in details, or to create an account with ServiceNSW if you don’t already have one
• Medicare details for parents/carers and your child

Please note parents/carers will need to provide separate consent for each of the two different vaccinations.

Benefits of online consent for parents/carers:

• SMS notifications when vaccinations are given
• easy updating of your child’s details online
• faster upload of your child’s vaccination records to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR)

If you or your child do not have a Medicare card, consent can still be provided by requesting a paper-based consent form directly from the Year Advisor.

To help answer questions you may have regarding providing vaccination and online consent, please visit the NSW Health website.

Upcoming Service Opportunities

Mary’s House Walk 

Mary’s House Services was founded in 2015-16 by a dedicated group of residents from Sydney’s northern suburbs. The Mary’s House refuge was established to address the significant gap in government funded services and to save lives in the region by providing support for women and children to feel safe, hopeful, and empowered to begin rebuilding their lives. 

Sign up here to join the Redlands Team.  

• It’s free for students: register and come along to walk for awareness.  
• Do that little bit extra and raise some money for Mary’s House/ask people to sponsor you to walk. 
• Get your family/other adults to come along: $85 registration 

Indigenous Literacy Foundation 

On Friday 1 November at lunchtime, Redlands is hosting the Great Book Swap for Indigenous Literacy Foundation. The ILF are working with remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to deliver culturally appropriate books, meet their literacy needs (particularly of infants) and enable the production of books written by adults and children in the Communities, often in First Languages. 

We are asking for your help to make this a success. The idea is that each student brings in a book (and a gold coin donation) to then enter the Great Book Swap and take a book. 

The book needs to be: 

1. 1. Good condition (we want second-hand books but they shouldn’t be ruined) 
   2. Age appropriate (for someone in Year 7 – 11)
   3. Fiction or non-fiction including graphic novels but NOT a magazine or a textbook
   4. Something interesting that another student in the school will like

Please help your child to bring this book and a gold coin donation in on Friday 25^th October (EFTPOS Is not available). They can hand this to their Tutor and then will have access to the book swap on Friday 1^st November.

You may also like to donate further to our Great Book Swap here. 

Important Dates 

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

Head of Junior School

I am delighted with the very positive start our Junior School students have made to Term 4. Yesterday in Assembly we spoke about the remainder of the academic year and used the metaphor of a downhill ski slope – as one moves down the course, momentum increases and maintaining focus becomes essential. Just as a skier makes thoughtful adjustments to navigate the run successfully, our students are encouraged to make positive choices over coming weeks. These decisions not only shape their own experience and reputation but also have an impact on those around them. By acting with care, responsibility and consideration, students can ensure a strong finish to the year.

The recent Festival of Redlands was a wonderful highlight of the year, bringing our school community together for a day filled with excitement and fun activities. It was great to see everyone enjoying themselves and building connections across the school (P-12). A special thank you goes out to the RPFA organising committee and volunteers (both parents and students), whose hard work and dedication made this event such a success. We are truly grateful for their efforts in fostering the sense of togetherness that makes Redlands so special.

The Kindness Project – From our Dean of Students, Katie–Louise Clinton

In Term 4 our Year 6 Wellbeing leaders have launched the Kindness Project.

The Kindness Project Is all about highlighting students who have shown kindness to one another, when no one is watching. The Wellbeing leaders have collaborated to make a special ‘post’ box. Next to the box will be cards that have a space where you can write about a time someone has been kind and what was the action shown?

The Kindness Project box is in the Prep and Junior School Reception area and is open for anyone to use including our teachers, please share your ideas and spread the magic and we hope to feel the transformative power of kindness. Please encourage your child to talk about people at school who have demonstrated kindness, ask them if they see someone helping another student make sure to put a note in the kindness box! We will be making announcements in Assembly as we spotlight the way we show kindness to each other at Redlands.

Viva Mexico – from our Language Teacher, Joanna Colagiuri

Viva Mexico will be visiting the Junior School to perform for Redlands students as part of the Spanish program on Thursday 31 October.

Viva Mexico is a musical and cultural journey led by Victor Valdés, who performs with instruments including the Mexican harp, Mexican and Spanish guitars, violin and trumpet.  Students will learn folk dances and the meaning of Spanish lyrics in some popular songs.  Victor will also explain the cultural history of the instruments and the Charro suit worn by the Mariachis. 

Parents have been invoiced for the cost of the incursion with Term 4 fees. 

The performances will take place at the following times on Thursday 31 October:

• 8:30 – 9:20am: Year 3
• 9:30-10:20am: Year 4
• 11:00-11:50am: Year 5
• 12:00-12.50pm: Year 6

Term 4 Parent Information Session

Defiance and Connections: Managing Defiant Behaviour While Building Stronger Bonds

Our school counsellors will delve into how attachment and emotional connections influence defiance in primary school-aged children. We’ll define defiance, explore why it happens, and provide practical strategies to manage it, all designed to reduce defiant behaviour while strengthening parent-child bonds. Learn how to balance secure attachment with giving your child space to adapt and grow, building their distress tolerance and resilience to life’s challenges.

Save the date in your diary – Thursday 14 November, 8.30am. Registration link will be provided next week. 

Parents Circles: Responsive Parenting and Raising Healthy Children – From our School Counsellor, Silvia Roberts

Being a responsive parent sounds simple enough, but living high-stress lives, often in isolation, lots of us know how difficult it can be. Recognising that the essential condition for a healthy child’s development is the child’s relationship with nurturing adults, I invite you to join me for regular Parents Circles.

The last Parents Circle in 2024 will take place in Week 4 in the Prep Library after school drop off. We welcome our prep and junior school parents to attend. Please feel free to bring your own coffee or tea. As this is a parenting circle of support, numbers are limited to 20 to keep it small enough for interactive discussion, please register your interest here. 

The topic for Week 4 (Wednesday, 06/11/2024 8.30 am – 9.30 am in Lucy Hill Library) is:

Positive Functional Development: Model of Developmental Immaturity

• Focusing on understanding and exploring how early experiences in the family shape children’s emotional responses, decision making and the relationships they develop later in life.
• Learn to recognise patterns of “immaturity” in yourself and your children.
• How do my own childhood experiences influence my parenting style?

Are you feeling trapped in a parenting pattern that might not serve your child, yourself, or your family? Connect and ask questions to empower yourself with tools and insights. 

Term 4 Wellbeing Webinar

Junior School parents and carers may also be interested in the following Secondary School Wellbeing Webinar next Tuesday 29 October, 6.00-7.00pm. 

Navigating the Social Media Landscape: New Laws, Online Communication, and Digital Literacy

As discussions around social media restrictions and bans gain momentum, it’s essential for parents to stay informed about the possible changes and their impact on teens. This presentation will explore the current legislative landscape, share key research findings, and help parents prepare for potential backlash from teenagers related to new social media regulations. We will also discuss how messaging and texting platforms are central to teens’ social interactions, highlighting both risks and benefits, and provide practical strategies for fostering social media literacy and critical thinking. By teaching teenagers to critically assess information, make safe online choices, and engage responsibly, families will be empowered to navigate the digital world with greater confidence.

All parents are encouraged to attend our School counsellor-led webinar which can be accessed here, in the comfort of your own home.

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

Head of Preparatory School

Festival of Redlands

The recent Festival of Redlands was a wonderful highlight of the year, bringing our school community together for a day filled with excitement and fun activities. It was great to see everyone enjoying themselves and building connections across the school (P-12). A big shout out to the incredible bidders on the Prep art works, they were truly hot property and have all gone to good homes!

A special thank you goes out to the RPFA organising committee and volunteers (both parents and students), whose hard work and dedication made this event such a success. We are truly grateful for their efforts in fostering the sense of togetherness that makes Redlands so special.

The Kindness Project – From our Dean of Students, Katie-Louise Clinton

In Term 4 our Year 6 Wellbeing leaders have launched the Kindness Project.

The Kindness Project Is all about highlighting students who have shown kindness to one another, when no one is watching. The Wellbeing leaders have collaborated to make a special ‘post’ box. Next to the box will be cards that have a space where you can write about a time someone has been kind and what was the action shown?

The Kindness Project box is in the Prep and Junior School Reception area and is open for anyone to use including our teachers, please share your ideas and spread the magic and we hope to feel the transformative power of kindness. Please encourage your child to talk about people at school who have demonstrated kindness, ask them if they see someone helping another student make sure to put a note in the kindness box! We will be making announcements in Assembly as we spotlight the way we show kindness to each other at Redlands.

Term 4 Parent Presentation

Defiance and Connections: Managing Defiant Behaviour While Building Stronger Bonds

Our school counsellors will delve into how attachment and emotional connections influence defiance in primary school-aged children. We’ll define defiance, explore why it happens, and provide practical strategies to manage it, all designed to reduce defiant behaviour while strengthening parent-child bonds. Learn how to balance secure attachment with giving your child space to adapt and grow, building their distress tolerance and resilience to life’s challenges.

Save the date in your diary – Thursday 14 November, 8.30am. Registration link will be provided next week. 

Parents Circles: Responsive Parenting and Raising Healthy Children – From our school counsellor, Silvia Roberts

Being a responsive parent sounds simple enough, but living high-stress lives, often in isolation, lots of us know how difficult it can be. Recognising that the essential condition for a healthy child’s development is the child’s relationship with nurturing adults, I invite you to join me for regular Parents Circles. As this is a parenting circle of support, numbers are limited to 20 to keep it small enough for interactive discussion, please register your interest here. 

ySafe at Redlands

On Monday, our Junior, Prep and Redlands House staff attended a digital and online safety workshop run by David Smith from ySafe. It was a timely reminder of just how many tools, services and platforms our students, staff and parents are using, or being exposed to, on a daily basis. While Redlands promotes the positive use of Digital Technology for learning, work and day-to-day activity, we also recognise the potential issues and dangers that are present. But, rather than hide from these risks and not use technology, we are encouraged to engage in dialogue, share our experiences, identify potential risks, and develop our shared understanding of the digital landscape and how to navigate it safely. As always, our primary concern is for the health, well-being and safety of the students.

We are fortunate at Redlands to have access to some great resources to support us in navigating the digital landscape. These resources are used for lessons in classrooms, but are also available to students, staff and parents to dip into as needed. You can access these resources on the Digital Safety page on PULSE. 

Mrs Ainslie Breckenridge
Head of Preparatory School
abreckenridge@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9848

Redlands House and PreKindergarten

Wednesday Lunch Orders for Cremorne Seniors

For the remainder of Term 4 Redlands House Senior classes can order their lunch from the canteen on a Wednesday. Families will be able to order from a limited menu via the online ordering system. Order can be made online using the Flexi Schools system.

Flexischools is a well-established organisation allowing you to easily place all your canteen orders online at any time.

1. Simply go to www.flexischools.com.au and click “Register” and enter your email address.
2. You will be sent an email with further instructions on how to complete the registration.
3. Fill in your details on the registration form and click submit.
4. Add your children, select your school and their class.

Existing Flexischools users can simply ‘Add a Student’ and manage all students at multiple schools on the one account.

Once registered, you can start placing orders immediately. If you have any questions, please contact the Flexischools Customer Service Team on 1300 361 769, or you can contact them via their website.

Please note the following:

As you can imagine not all items available at the canteen are suitable to be transported to the Preschool. For this reason, we have a limited menu available, as per the attached list. Please ensure all online orders are completed before the 9.00am daily cut-off.

Kindergarten Orientation

On Wednesday 30 October, children moving into Kindergarten at Redlands in 2025 will have their second opportunity to visit and spend some time engaging in activities and experiences in the classrooms in the Prep School. Please bring children to preschool by 8.30am. The children will then walk up to the Prep school with their class at 8.50am and will return to the Preschool for morning tea.  The children should wear mufti/plain clothes on this day. Please also remember, an information session will be held in the Arnold Library for parents at 9am.

Seniors and Transition Gold Concert 

Costume Requirements – Each child requires a white pair pants, shorts or skirt for the concert. Can these items please be brought to school in a named zip lock bag before Wednesday 22 November. We will have a full dress rehearsal on Wednesday 22 November. The children will be provided with a t-shirt to wear for the concert.

Concert Day 29 November – Children are to arrive at school by 9am on Concert Day in their normal school uniform. The concert will begin at 10am and should conclude by 10.45am. The students will return to Preschool for the rest of the day. Should you wish to take your child home, they can be collected from the Preschool after the concert, once they have changed back into their Redlands uniform.

Junior Parent Teacher Learning Discussions

 Parent Teacher Interviews for families of Junior students will be held in Week 3 of term, 28 October to 1 November. Interviews can be booked via the https://www.schoolinterviews.com.au/code/625jw. The code is 625jw. Bookings can be made until 9am to Friday 25 October at 9am.  If you’re unable to attend these interviews in person, we can arrange for the interview to be conducted via zoom.

Term 4 Important Dates

• 25 October – Kindergarten Orientation 8.50 am
• 18 November – Orange Class Juniors Sing-along 10am
• 22 November – Yellow Class Juniors Sing-along 9.30am

Mrs Chemane Huon
Redlands House and Transition Coordinator
chuon@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9904 1448

Mrs Ainslie Breckenridge
Head of Preparatory School
abreckenridge@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9848

Secondary Sport

As we prepare for Term 4 it is important to remind students that maintaining commitments to school cocurricular activities is essential for all students as it prepares them for tertiary education and future employment in several ways:

• Time Management – Balancing academics with co-curricular commitments teaches students how to prioritise tasks and manage their time effectively. This is a key skill for university life, where students face increased academic demands and greater freedom in structuring their schedules.
• Teamwork and Collaboration – Participating in group activities like sports, clubs or artistic performances fosters collaboration and teamwork. This builds interpersonal skills, which are critical in both group projects and professional environments that require working with diverse teams.
• Resilience and Perseverance – Commitment to a long-term cocurricular activity, especially when faced with challenges, teaches perseverance. This builds resilience, which is highly valued in both academic and professional contexts, where setbacks are common but persistence leads to success.
• Commitment and Accountability – Staying engaged in cocurriculars demonstrates a student’s commitment and accountability—traits that are important in their future, where self-driven work is common, and in employment, where reliability and commitment to projects are crucial.

By consistently engaging in cocurricular activities, students set themselves apart as disciplined, well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the next steps in their academic and professional journeys.

We are very much looking forward to the official start of the ISA Summer Season this weekend, please find attached the fixtures for this weekend.

Please note: student calendars will have the most up-to-date fixtures.

Please ensure you allow for Saturday traffic to get to your venues at least 30 minutes prior to your fixture starting.

Player Expectations

• All Players are expected to behave in accordance of the:
  • Redlands Secondary School Code of Conduct
  • ISA Code of Conduct
• Any breach of the Redlands Secondary School Code of Conduct and/or the ISA Code of Conduct will be followed up in line with the Redlands School Disciplinary Policy.
• All of the Redlands Players are to be respectful and polite in all communication with coaches, staff and teammates.

Player Communication

• Players are expected to communicate with the Sports Department with regards to all injuries, absences and illness
• Please do not pass a message onto to Sports Department through your teammates/friends
• Any absences from trainings or matches need to be complete via the Sport Absence Form (located in Quick Links)

Match Day

• All teams are to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of their fixture.
• All teams are to arrive at their fixture in full Redlands Sport/Playing uniform.
• Support fellow teammates, teams, opposition players
• Play every game to the best of your ability, for Redlands, for your teammates and for yourself.

Wet Weather

• All wet weather/training modifications will be made through the Redlands App, all students, parents/carers should download the Redlands app adding their specific sports for real time notifications.
• Morning Training/Fixtures – Our morning training is on astroturf, so wet weather calls are highly unlikely. In extreme conditions, a call will be made around 6am, we will try to communicate any changes as soon as possible, if in doubt please assume training is still on.

‘Pressure is a privilege. It means you’re doing something worthwhile.’

Daniel Ricciardo

Redlands Secondary Sports Calendar

• Friday 25 October – Snowsports photos (Lang Gym – 10.10am)
• Saturday 26 October – Summer ISA Round 1
• Saturday 2 November – Rowing Newcastle Regatta
• Saturday 2 November – Summer ISA Round 2

Basketball

Round 1 this weekend!!  Good luck this weekend and thank you for your hard work at training.

Can’t wait to see Redlands Blue and Gold on the courts and supporters on the sidelines this weekend. We have out A line at Oakhill all day. This will be a very tough start to the season and I know you will all embrace the challenge and put forward your best effort.

All venues and game times are on Pulse.

Good luck. Let’s go Rhinos!!

Simon Gleeson

Rowing

Students have continued their strong training into Week 2, with some of the early testing already yielding PBs from students that have had consistency in their training.

Over the next few weeks we will be preparing for the first regatta of the season with the Newcastle Grammar School regatta held on Sat 2 November. Students will race in a range of crews and boat types at this regatta before having a more formal crew selection process leading into the other Term 4 regattas. Regatta information that includes a timetable, race draw, crew lists and more is typically available the Wednesday prior to Saturday racing.

Term 4 Regattas

• Saturday 2 November: Newcastle Grammar School (Berry Park)
• Saturday 16 November: All Schools Regatta (Penrith)
• Saturday 30 November: Sydney Girls High Regatta (Penrith)

Last weekend the Friends of Rowing manned the Rowing tent at the Festival of Redlands where they had a number of rowing machines in action with all ages from Year 2 through to parents having a go.

A special thanks to the students that assisted with Friends of Rowing:

• Anoushka Lee
• Lily Wainberg
• Lachlan McKay
• James Collyer
• Toby Anderson
• Henry Dobson
• Frankie Richardson
• Katie Budden
• Gus O’Sullivan
• Sebastian Salz

Sailing

Coaches Jameson, Aiden and Mitch have conducted several productive sessions with the Pacers & Elliots, benefiting from a variety of conditions that have allowed for effective training. Over the past week, the Pacer students engaged in a range of activities: on Tuesday, they practiced fleet racing starts and sailed around the entire course; on Thursday, they focused on heavy wind upwind sailing and participated in team racing drills, including start practice; and on Saturday, they worked on mark trap drills to enhance their tactical skills by learning to slow down other boats while positioning their teammates ahead, followed by team racing around a full course. Just yesterday, the Elliot students were back on the water, many of whom are new to sailing, so the focus was on building their confidence and mastering the basics. In the upcoming sessions on Thursday and Saturday, the coaches aim to further improve the sailors’ skills and knowledge, giving more experienced sailors additional responsibilities.

Snowsports

Friday 25 October

• Snowsports Photos – Secondary School |  Recess 10.10am LANG GYM
• Snowsports Photos – K-6 |  Lunch 1.00pm Dunnet Hall
• The 2025 Redlands Cup has been scheduled for Sunday 13 July 2025.

Tennis

The Redlands Cup was played last Saturday at Mosman Lawn Tennis Club with a fantastic entry by students and great parent support.

The Redlands Cup is a knockout tournament with the draw created for the following competitions:

• Senior Boys Singles (Yr 10-12)
• Junior Boys Singles (Yr 7-9)
• Open Girls Singles

This tournament is open to all students who have competed in Summer and/or Winter Tennis.

Max Byron, the new Tennis Captain, leading by example, won the Senior Boys Singles 6-1 in the Final against Zach Ressas.

The Junior Boys Singles was a closely fought competition with a large number of entries, highlighting the strength of the Junior Boys coming through.

The semi finals were close matches with Anay Mishra Mall beating Bowen Shiao 6-1, and Regan Vom beating Jonathan O’Carrigan 6-1.  Anay won the Junior Boys Singles 6-3 in the Final against Regan.

It was great to see the launch of the Open Girls Singles competition this year, and exciting to see Angel Edwards in Year 7 winning the title 6-3 against Jessica Lee.

This will be a growing event showing the number and strength of female students now playing Tennis.

The Redlands Cup was a great launch to the new Summer Tennis Season ahead with the Inter School Competition starting this Saturday.

We are looking forward to a great summer of tennis – good luck to all students this Saturday!

Touch Football

As per Pulse News, Games begin this Saturday 26 October.

Student Calendars and Pulse link to fixtures will display game times. 

To note regarding this weeks game, some girls teams are part of the gala day format, so will be 25 minute round robin games (if more than one fixture). Otherwise games are the standard 2x 20 minute halves. 

We encourage all players to support other teams within the program where possible this season. This Saturday our girls teams are participating in a gala day at home, lots of Redlands games to support!

For fixtures:

• Students need to arrive 30 minutes prior to their start time when own travel is required to venue.
• For bus travel fixtures, students are expected to travel on school provided busses. If students are planning on travelling with family to the away games email notice to Jparsonage@redlands.nsw.edu.au is required by 8am Friday of that week. 
• All absences need to be informed. Please ensure the parent/ carer logs an absence via the ABSENCE button in PULSE. *Please note that unexplained absences from a training session or match will result in School Disciplinary Action.

 Please see below for reminders.

• Redlands sport shorts and an athletics singlet (or Redlands sports polo) to play in.
• A Redlands hat for sun protection during training and games is encouraged.
• Bring plenty of water for games.  

Jordan Parsonage 

General Sport Information

Fixtures

• All student training and fixture details will be available to families under My Schedule on Redlands Pulse. Additionally, the weekly Fixtures (The Redlands Rhino) can be found on the Secondary School Sport page on Redlands Pulse from Wednesday each week. Please ensure you check Redlands Pulse Friday afternoon to ensure you have the latest fixture information.

Uniform

• The Redlands sports uniform should be worn to all trainings and matches (students are not permitted to wear any non-Redlands branded clothing). In the event of inclement weather students should wear their Redlands fleece or sports tracksuit.
• Students must wear trainer style sneakers that are preferably white with non-marking soles. It is part of our shared responsibility to ensure that students wear footwear that aligns with the activity to be undertaken. High top sneakers, Vans, Converse etc. are not appropriate for School Sport.

Saturday Sport Absences

• Parents are required to log an absence via the Sports Absence Form available on Redlands Pulse – Secondary School Sport (under ‘Quick Links’ prior to missing any training session or weekly fixture.
• Any student unable to attend a Saturday fixture due to illness, is required to submit a Medical Certificate to their Sports administrator by the Monday morning following the missed fixture.
• Injured students are required to attend all training sessions and Saturday fixtures.
• Failure to do any of the above will jeopardise a student’s eligibility for Colours, Pockets, and Awards and result in school disciplinary action.
• Please refer to the Student Planner 2024 for full details on requirements for participating in a Representative Sport.
• Bus Transport
  • When travelling on Redlands transport the Redlands school rules are in place and students should be always upholding the values of the school:
    • Have good behaviour, safe behaviour and appropriate language at all times.
    • Follow the driver (and supervising staff) instructions at all times.
    • Obey the transport rules and regulations at all times (seat belts must be worn at all times).
    • Leave the bus how they found it (no rubbish, no mess).

Students who fail to meet the standards of the above will face school disciplinary action.

Wet Weather

• Unless communicated differently or in the morning of the session (via Redlands Pulse & Clipboard), all training sessions are to be deemed ‘on’.
• Students should bring with them a change of Redlands Sport Uniform (Thursdays only) or their school uniform (Tuesday) if there are light showers during training.

Redlands Concussion Protocols and Updates

Following the publication of the AIS Australian Concussion Guidelines for Youth and Community Sport, the School has released a new Concussion Procedure along with a Concussion Referral and Clearance Form and a Graduated Return to Sport Framework. These documents can be found on Redlands Pulse and are linked below:

• Concussion Procedure
• Concussion Referral and Clearance Form
• Graduated Return to Sport Framework

In addition, we have published a Concussion Information Sheet which summarises how concussion is managed and the pathway a student must follow to return to competition.

• Concussion Information Sheet

Key points include:

• recognising red flag signs or symptoms of concussion (call 000 immediately)
• a student suspected of concussion must follow the graduated return to sport framework before they can return to competition
• a parent/carer is now required to take their child to a healthcare practitioner within 72 hours of the incident for the initial consult and again after 14 days symptom-free (at rest) before the resumption of contact training

Please read the procedure and if you have any queries on how a student will be managed following a suspected concussion, feel free to reach out to the designated Concussion Officer for each campus.

The following staff members have been designated as the Concussion Officer for each campus:

• Ms Mia Lundquist (Secondary School)
• Mr Eddy Atkins (High Country Campus)

Summer Sport

A reminder that all key information for the season has been uploaded onto the Secondary School Sport page of Redlands Pulse, if you have any additional questions, please reach out to the appropriate Sports Administrator listed at the bottom of this page.

Sports Photos

All Sports Photos are available for parents to view / purchase on the SPA Images Website 

Photo Library >> Schoolsports 2022-24 >> select your sport

Password (redlands2024) Redlands has an agreement with SPA Images that we will only use the images for marketing purposes.

Melba has finalised all photos taken of sport teams and co-curricular activities and they are now available for parents to view and purchase. Please visit the Melba Studios website, Select the ‘Schools’ icon. The password for access is winnie.

Summer Sport – Key Contacts

Junior Sport

Important Reminder Regarding Student Pick Up at Sport Venues on Wednesdays

Please take note of the following important reminders regarding Wednesday Sport pick-up. If you plan to pick up your child from the venue, please notify the Junior School Sport department (juniorsport@redlands.nsw.edu.au) before 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday.

Any emails received after this time will not be passed on to supervising staff, and your child will return to school as usual.

Discuss the pick-up arrangements with your child each week to avoid confusion. We’ve had some children feeling upset at the venue because they were unsure of the plan.

If you have a standing pick-up arrangement, remind your child to inform the staff (Redlands teachers) during transit to the venue. This will help alleviate any stress at dismissal time.

If you or the carer is not at the venue at the time of departure, your child will be transported back to school. Please ensure you arrive slightly earlier to avoid this situation.

Pick up has to occur at the conclusion of the session and not prior. Students cannot be left behind for late arriving families.

Rep Sport Summer Sport Term 4

A reminder to check your app each week in regard to your child’s team as our teams are ‘fluid’, meaning teams may change from week to week depending on 3 main criteria:

ABILITY: in direct comparison to other students across the sport

ATTENDANCE: any student who misses 2 games in a season unrelated to sickness may be moved

ATTITUDE: this is based on behaviour at trainings, on game day and not limited to the sporting arena

Parents and carers are reminded to check the teams each Friday afternoon for changes that may have taken place at training during the week. Students may at times be asked to fill in for other teams occasionally due to absentees etc.

Non-Rep Sport Recommencing Term 4

Students were reminded about the three ‘rights’ and how they impact upon their involvement in Redlands Sport in Term 4. Students are asked to adhere to these;

• Right place
• Right time
• Right equipment

Can you please ensure your check your child’ activities to see what sport they are commencing in this term making sure they bring the appropriate gear and or equipment to sport.

Non Rep families are also reminded to check the home page of Pulse as well as their individual sport pages on a regular basis for updates.

Term 4 2024 Upcoming Key Dates

These have all been updated on Pulse for your viewing and preparation These events can also be located in our school sport calendar. The  Junior School Parent Information Booklet has also been updated for Term 4- this can be viewed here Parent Information Booklet

Mr Trevor Dunne
Head of Junior Sport
tdunne@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9953 6022

Dance Academy

Ballerina Flies

Huge congratulations to Year 11 student Hannah Scott, who has been accepted into the Queensland College of Dance and will be attending full time ballet training from January 2025.

The Academy is absolutely thrilled by this achievement and wish Hannah the very best for her future. 

Tickets for End of Year Performance 2024

The Academy is full steam ahead with preparations for the End of Year Performance….

Tickets are now on sale for the RDA End of Year Performance!

Please check our RDA EOYP Pulse page for further details on performances and the after party.

BUY PERFORMANCE TICKETS

Tickets for After Show Party

If you haven’t already, make sure to book your tickets for the RDA After Show Party, happening directly after the Saturday 3.30pm performance in the Chatswood Theatre Foyer. Join us for drinks and nibbles at 6:30pm, and let’s all celebrate a wonderful year of dance at Redlands.

BUY AFTER SHOW TICKETS

Friends of Dance (FOD) Sewing Bees

Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a complete beginner, your sewing abilities are more than welcome at our FOD Sewing Bees. 

We are working on costumes for our End of Year Performance, so let’s stich, chat and sip our way through a productive and enjoyable morning and help perfect some wonderful costumes!

If you haven’t been to an FOD sewing bee before, then please pop along anytime from 8:30am. We hope to see you soon.

Dates: Saturday 26 October, Saturday 2 November, Saturday 9 November
Time: 9am – 12pm
Where:   Studio P1.1   |   Parkes Hall Building   |   Junior Campus

For further information please contact Anneliese on 0418459419

Sunday Rehearsals

A reminder to “save the dates” for our extra EOYP rehearsals on Sunday 3 & 17 November.

Please check our RDA EOYP Pulse page for the most up-to-date rehearsal schedule.

Any Questions?

For the most up-to-date information on all things dance please

CLICK HERE FOR REDLANDS DANCE ACADEMY PULSE

And please contact us with any questions, concerns or feedback.

A reminder that if you wish to make an appointment to speak with Ms Revie, please contact the Dance Department.

Ms Gilly Revie
Head of Redlands Dance Academy
grevie@redlands.nsw.edu.au
02 9908 6488 

Drama and Theatre

Drama Celebration Night

Save the date: two weeks until the Redlands Drama Celebration Night
6pm for a 6.30 start Friday 8 November in Redlands Hall, come along and enjoy a great range of drama, film and musical theatre from across the year and campuses.

Year 8 Drama students performed a great al fresco setting of Compass by Jessica Bellamy last night in the Fahl Garden: a few photos below with a show report to follow next week.

Tickets to the Both Junior Musicals are officially ON SALE NOW!

Tickets to Madagascar Junior and Seussical Junior can be found here.

Year 5 and year 6 Musical Theatre have been working hard on their shows all year and can’t wait to share their creative work with you.

End of year Showcases for all Extracurricular Drama and Theatre classes are deep in their rehearsal process too. Our wonderful Drama Tutors will be sending out letters to invite you to these showcases in the next couple of weeks. The showcases schedule will also be published to pulse for your reference.

Term 4 is an exciting time of year for Extracurricular Drama with many events and showcases brought to you by our wonderful Redlands performing artists.

Ms Amber Virtue
Head of Extracurricular Drama

Music

Festival of Redlands

Last weekend, many of our students performed at the Festival of Redlands: Shining a Light on 140 Years. Whilst we didn’t get to go ahead with our mainstage performances as we’d hoped, we still had many students involved in smaller ensembles and engaging the community! 

We’re proud of our students and how willing they are to be involved. Many thanks to Friends of Music as well as our staff for their support of the event.  

Student Spotlight: Elliot Taylor (Bassoon)

Over the holidays, Year 8 student Elliot Taylor performed at the Australian Double Reed competition (ADRS), hosted in the Gold Coast. Competing in the competitive Grade 7/8/CMus section, he was deemed the winner by the panel. Congratulations Elliot for this outstanding achievement!

Year 8 and 10 Curriculum Showcases

Congratulations to the Year 8 Students for their performances on Monday evening! Thank you to the families to attended to watch the performances and to the class teachers for the organisation. A special thanks to Dr Eskenazi for his support and accompaniment of the students. 

Students 10 Elective Music classes will perform in their showcase in Week 4 . Parents and friends are invited to attend and support the students in their performances and celebrate their achievements this year. Please note the following dates in your calendar:

Calling Future Viola and Double Bass Players

Are you looking to stand out in the orchestra and take on an exciting musical challenge? Our ensembles are in need of talented students to learn the viola and double bass! Both of these instruments play essential roles in creating the rich, full sound of an ensemble. Whether you’re interested in deep, resonant basslines or the warm, unique voice of the viola, now is the perfect time to start learning. Get in touch with Ms Moses if you are interested.

Ensemble Attendance and Expectations

A reminder that weekly attendance at ensemble is essential for all students enrolled in cocurricular ensembles. Regular participation is essential for students’ musical growth and the success of our ensembles at important upcoming end-of-year events. We greatly appreciate the  support of our community to help our students all rehearsals until the end of term. 

We also ask that all students ensure that they bring all required equipment, and are regularly practising their parts at home in the lead up to end of year events.

Upcoming Junior Curriculum Instrumental Performances

Term 4 is always an exciting time for our curriculum instrumentalists, as we aim towards our biggest performances of the year. Yr 2 and Yr 3 Strings are looking forward to performing in the Strings Concert, with the cocurricular ensembles, and Yr 4 and 5 students are busy preparing for the MIP Concert. In our lessons we have spoken about those pesky nerves that sometimes get in the way, and how we can help to overcome them by being well prepared and ready to perform. We encourage students to continue regular practice at home, and our tutors are always available to help with any tricky passages. Please save the date for the following performances which will be open to parent and carer  visitors:

• Strings Concert – Monday 4 Nov 2-3pm
• MIP Concert – Thursday 7 Nov 2-3pm

Strings Concert, Monday 4 Nov 2pm

Term 4 – 2024

Here to help!

Keep your eye on Pulse and the MUSIC EVENTS page to ensure key dates are all on the family calendar and reach out to your campus Music Office if we can assist in any way.

Mrs Jacqueline McGlade  
Junior Music Administrator | juniormusic@redlands.nsw.edu.au | 9908 6495
CLICK FOR PREP & JUNIOR MUSIC PULSE

Ms Kirsty Hales
Senior Music Administrator | seniormusic@redlands.nsw.edu.au | 9968 9820
CLICK FOR SENIOR MUSIC PULSE 

Ms Katherine Moses
Junior Campus Music Subject Coordinator (P-6)

Ms Victoria Williams
Secondary School Music Subject Coordinator (7-12)

Mr Mathew Owen
Director of Music Performance (P-12)