Embedded Files
LAND OF THE GADIGAL PEOPLE OF THE EORA NATION
BULLETIN 5 - Term 2 - Friday 1 May 2026
MESSAGE from Dr Susan Green, Principal
MESSAGE from Dr Susan Green, Principal
Welcome to Term 2!
I hope you had a wonderful Easter break – students have been back for almost two weeks and are looking refreshed, happy, and ready to be intellectually and creatively challenged in their learning.
Uniform is looking increasingly good – please remember to put names on jumpers and jackets so they can be returned if lost. Lost items are handed into the front office.
Term 2 started for teachers with two days of professional learning dedicated to strengthening inclusive education, with a focus on disability and neurodiversity. Thank you to Amber Johnson and Laura McIntyre for presenting on the ways we can enhance partnerships with the learning and support team to improve student learning outcomes and wellbeing, and to Hannah Ingram for presenting on differentiated teaching and assessment to support and lift every learner. Thank you to Deputy Principal Ms Nilaufer Rajwar for coordinating the school development days.
I warmly welcome two new permanent teachers to Newtown High School of the Performing Arts: Ms Sarelle Young is our new substantive Deputy Principal replacing Peter Shields who retired in 2023. Sarelle Young is a highly experienced Deputy Principal working previously in this leadership position at Caringbah High School and Prairiewood High School. I also welcome Mr Antonio Ferlin who joins the PDHPE Faculty as substantive teacher. Previously at Chester Hill High School, Antonio Ferlin will be an excellent addition to our school. I also welcome back from parental leave, English Teacher Mr Alain Lavrut.
These first two weeks have felt like the busiest start to term ever. Year 11 has been impressive with their approach to their Half Yearly Examinations that commenced week 1. Exams are now over and students will soon start to receive important feedback.
Last night was the second sold out performance of the Dimitris Basis Concert. With well over 120 Music students and technical crew, it was extraordinary. The two performances showcased the incredible talent, discipline, and musical versatility of Newtown High School of the Performing Arts students and staff. The rehearsals so early in term and the holidays were a logistical challenge and testament to the passion and dedication of everyone. It was a delight to watch students shine last night. A big congratulations to Mr Emlyn Lewis Jones and Ms Ula George for their inspiring leadership of the final collaboration with Dimitris Basis and the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW. Congratulations to the Music Faculty (who also performed or conducted), and to Ben Turner and the technical company, including some NHSPA alumni who continue to collaborate with us. Thank you to Ms Effie Milos and Ms Christina Argyri for assisting on both nights and the P&C for serving refreshments at interval.
Ms Deb Summerhayes, Deputy Secretary Public Schools, and Ms Juliette McMurray, Relieving Director Educational Leadership, visited NHSPA this morning. Thank you Mr Julian Emsley and Year 9 History, Ms Maddison Smith and Year 10 Design & Technology, Mr David Ryan Year 7 English, Mr Remi Slade-Caffarel Year 8 French, and Mr Charlie Koster Year 8 Science, for welcoming us into your classrooms. Deb enjoyed talking with students, viewing our beautiful Aboriginal Murals, the History Timeline in F Block, and the library’s new alumni wall, as well as the collection of archival framed posters from past Drama performances on the walls. We discussed the high performing, high expectations learning culture of NHSPA. Deb was particularly interested in hearing about the Year 10 Drama Extension Wellbeing plays and also the staff Collaboration Hubs embedding cross faculty dialogue for excellence in teaching and learning.
Thank you to the many parents and carers who have donated to our new tax deductable Library Fund. Acknowledgments of books purchased through donations will be put inside each novel/text. We are most grateful for your support. As a result, our Library collection will continue to grow to the benefit of students now and of course these books will lift and engage students for years to come.
Thank you to the P&C for their $10,000 contribution to our purchasing of Science Headsets for computer simulations of concepts and phenomena for interactive learning. These will be purchased soon for students to use this year.
Financial statements for school activities and subject financial items were sent out last term. Reminders for financial items yet to be received have been sent out this term. I thank you for your attention to these. As always, any questions about subject or course financial statements, please contact the school.
The voluntary school contribution of $200, like the P&C donation, Library Fund donations or St George Trust Fund donations, help us enormously. I thank our community for your ongoing support which enables us to deliver such educational excellence and to constantly improve the learning experience and environment for students.
In 2025, voluntary contributions and donations helped fund: outdoor furniture (tables, chairs and umbrellas); furniture outside the library (tables and colourful chairs for an extra outdoor learning space); much needed new seating in the Studio Theatre; new drapes in the Studio Theatre; the establishment of a TAS design room for digital technology (laser cutter and 3D printers), and more. We are currently looking to purchase some shade sails for much needed added shade in summer. We are also excited about the volleyball court to be built later this year.
I am always impressed by our students. Impressed by their attitude to their learning, their efforts to achieve their personal best in subjects, their friendliness, their support of each other, and their kindness. At NHSPA we constantly remind students about our school values of excellence, creativity and equity, as well as our high expectations for learning and behaviour. Please see our updated NHSPA Student Behaviour and Wellbeing Support Policy, which incorporates the DoE’s new Anti-bullying framework.
We have seen a significant improvement in attendance, however, there are still too many students arriving late to school with no justifiable reason. Repeated lateness is disruptive to all students’ learning – to the individual as well as the class. The attendance team is currently targeting students with repeated unexplained lateness to school.
It’s going to be a wonderful term, with our Semester One Showcase performances starting soon. Thank you, as always, for your support and engagement with our school. I wish all students a positive and exciting term ahead.
CHANGE OF DETAILS
CHANGE OF DETAILS
It is vital that school holds valid details for all students should we need to contact parents. If you have recently changed your address or any other contact details, please complete the change of details form and return to the front office.
PERMISSION TO PUBLISH
Please complete and return the form below to the front office if you need to advise the school of any changes in the 'Permission to Publish' consent of your child.
MESSAGE from our Prefects
Teacher Spotlight: The Many Worlds of Ms George
(by Maya Harriman-Khan)
Born Ioanna (Ula) in a small Greek village, she arrived in Australia in 1959 at just four and a half years old, aboard a ship with her parents and two-year-old brother. “We came out here for a better life,” she says simply. “We were very poor there.” Like many migrant children of the era, she was enrolled in kindergarten and thrown into a new language and culture, a process that came with its share of hardship. “There was a lot of racism then,” she recalls, and with that came disassociation from her Greek culture, including her name, going by Joan until she was 18. However, throughout her childhood her parents, though without formal artistic training, filled the home with creativity: her father tended a magnificent garden, her mother crocheted and cooked with flair. “They have a wonderful sense of creativity,” she says. “I’ve always had that in me.’”.
When she finished high school in 1973, she faced the kind of fork-in-the-road moment that would define everything that followed. She had applied to study law at Sydney University and to the National Art School at Taylor Square. “My heart of hearts wanted art,” she admits. “But my background - because I’m Greek - a woman in law for a Greek community is huge.” The decision was made clear as the National Art School responded first. She had to go to “my parents’ dismay,” she laughs, “but I’ve never looked back.”
She completed five years at the National Art School, specialising in photography and printmaking, then added an education qualification at Sydney Teachers College. Despite a few teaching blocks post-graduation, she was not ready to be a teacher - not yet. “I was still a youngster myself, really,” she says. “I thought, I’m going to travel. I’m going to see the world properly.”
“Lots of little things”
What followed was two decades of living life as fully as possible. Venturing into hospitality, Ms George became a partner in a restaurant honouring her Greek heritage, opening in the mid-1980s on O’Connell Street in Newtown, Taverna To Steki (meeting place). It offered Greek food and live music in an atmosphere unlike anything else around, providing a home for those miles away from theirs. It has since passed through different owners and relocated, and still operates today on Enmore Road as Steki Taverna!
“Restaurantering is very hard,” she says with a knowing smile. But she loved it, the creativity involved in food, the community, the energy of it. In between and around the restaurant, she also worked as an events coordinator with the Council on the Ageing, advocating for the rights, interests and futures of Australians as they age. She also found the time to organise community festivals, and take part in volunteer work of various kinds. She also completed a postgraduate degree in Communications at UTS, where, in one prescient assignment, she created a concept advertisement imagining what it would look like if you could see the person you were calling on the phone. FaceTime! Decades before it existed.
“I did a lot of little things,” she says. “And then it was time.”
Walking Through the Gates
Ms George first came to NHSPA in 1999, through a connection with the wife of her former printmaking lecturer at art school, Jacquie Boon, who was teaching in the Visual Arts department. She arrived as a casual, nervous and unsure what to expect.
She walked into Corelli’s gates and the first thing she saw were students running up to each other with flowers in their hands, embracing. There was music coming from practice rooms, dancers running outside in costume. “The way that everybody embraced each other was wonderful,” she recalls. “I thought: this is home.”
By 2001 she had secured a permanent position in Visual Arts, teaching photography and film. During her time in the department, she collaborated with a colleague in the drama faculty to write an entirely new film studies curriculum for Years 9 and 10, which was endorsed by NESA and shared with regional schools across New South Wales. The pair also established a school film company, taking students as far as Broken Hill to shoot original short films, including a Western, a silent film, and several others.
From Darkroom to Wellbeing Room
After more than a decade in the classroom, around 2012, Ms George moved into the Careers and Wellbeing role, where she has remained ever since. “I loved art,” she says. “But I was getting tired in front of the classroom. I can still help, still do stuff - but now I just want to concentrate on wellbeing.”
The transition turned out to be a natural one. The same instinct that led her to teach art experientially, using a hands on, personal, story-driven approach, translates directly into how she approaches careers advising.
When asked if a student has ever come back and told her something she did that had changed their direction in life, she described one student who was struggling academically but had a deep passion for health and care work. Rather than push her through the traditional HSC path, Ms George worked with her family to explore a TAFE pathway in human services. Years later, that student came back. She had gone on to study nursing at UTS, and was then training in midwifery. “She said, “Miss, I followed your advice…you stood up for me.” Ms George pauses. “Those sorts of stories, they really stay with you.”
On Creativity, Resilience and the Pressure to Be Safe
As a careers advisor at a performing arts school, Ms George sees a particular tension play out every year: students who are deeply creative, but who feel pressure - from family, from society, from fear, to choose something safer.
“I had that dilemma too,” she says. Her advice is to follow your instincts, and to consider double degrees and multidisciplinary study to keep a creative passion alive whilst building skills that open other doors. “You’re going to change your career multiple times. Don’t rush it. Do it at a time that works for you.”
Ms George… the Rebel?
Ms George giving the Captain’s Address at her graduation in 1973.
What students may not know about Ms George is that she was, by her own admission, a bit of a “rebel” at school. As a Burwood Girls Captain, one of her first acts was to push for the abolition of the prefect system, arguing that all Year 12 students should share the responsibility of leadership. After egalitarian success, she turned her attention to the canteen.
“The food was really expensive and not great,” she recalls. They went to the canteen management and asked to negotiate for fair prices. The canteen refused. So the students acted. On one Monday, not a single girl at Burwood Girls ordered her lunch. Every one of them had brought food from home. “They listened,” she says with evident satisfaction. “It was changed for the better.” She leans forward. “That’s why student voice is important. The SRC is a really important platform, as long as it’s fair, because I believe in justice.”
Twenty-Seven Years, and Counting
Ms George has now been at NHSPA for twenty-seven years.
“Every year I say goodbye to kids and I’ll be crying, and then a whole new lot I get to love arrive, and then they leave too,” she says. “I always say: thank God I came here. I’ve never been with such wonderful people.”
“As soon as I walk in here, I can feel it, you can hear someone practising. Dancers come out into the corridor still in their leotards to eat a banana. Musicians in the hallways”. When asked “Why stay at Newtown all this time?” She looks around, as if taking it all in again for the first time. “There is a difference [from other schools]. There is.”
Three Quick Questions
Q: What’s one question you wish someone would ask you that nobody ever does?
“I think that one question would have been for someone to say: “Miss, what’s one teacher that inspired you?” Her visual arts teacher, known to students as Ruby, who, she says, “used to talk about art like you could eat it. Like you could feel it.”
Q: What’s a book, film, or song that changed the way you see the world?
A film, she says: “In the Mood for Love,” directed by Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Kar-wai. She saw it about fifteen years ago and found herself thinking about it again just that morning, on the train to work, watching the light outside the window. The memory arrived unbidden, which is, she suggests, exactly the point. She connects it to Marcel Proust and his idea that senses can suddenly unlock whole sheets of memory, a smell, a sound, a quality of light, and suddenly you are somewhere else entirely. For Ms George, that is what great art does: it arrives when you need it, not necessarily when you expect it.
Q: What’s something you believed at 16 that you’ve completely changed your mind about?
Growing up, she was ashamed of being Greek. She did not want to speak the language in public. She asked her mother to buy Vegemite instead of the food they ate at home. She changed her name from Ioanna to Joan. “I didn’t want to associate,”. The shift came in high school, when she became interested in what was happening politically in Greece, students fighting for freedom, tanks rolling through the streets of a country that called itself the birthplace of democracy. She embraced Greek music. And when she finished school, the first thing she did was go and change her name back. “Because I thought: language is freedom. I need to learn this language. I need to own it,” she says. She smiles. “Now I’ve fully embraced my heritage. It gave me a lot of freedom. To be who I am.”
Written in memory of one of Ms George’s first creative inspirations, her father, George.
TEACHING & LEARNING
A focus on differentiation
Our first School Development Day this term was dedicated to inclusive education, with a focus on supporting students with disabilities and diverse learning needs. We heard from our expanding Learning and Support Team about the wide range of support available to students at NHSPA, including in-class support and small group tuition. Across all five sessions, staff engaged with current research and illustrations of practice, collaborating across faculties to share ideas and resources. During our second session, staff explored eight key differentiation strategies, identifying specific ways to implement these in their own classrooms this term. The energy and commitment brought to this process was wonderful to see!
Literacy placemats
Explicit teaching of literacy across all Key Learning Areas (KLAs) supports the continued growth of student achievement. Our staff are eager to introduce Literacy Placemats to their classrooms — accessible reference tools that list important vocabulary for each topic, including both general academic language and subject-specific terminology. A particular focus is on encouraging students to draw on this vocabulary in their own writing, using precise language that demonstrates deeper understanding. We look forward to sharing more in coming editions.
As always, if you have any questions about your child's learning or how they are supported in the classroom, we encourage you to reach out to their teachers.
Free Parent Support Webinars
Elevate Education delivers high-impact workshops to our students that help to develop their study skills, motivation, and exam preparation.
Over the next term, parents are invited to attend Elevate's free webinar series, where you can help support your child at home by reinforcing the skills they're learning at school.
Register today at: https://go.elevateeducation.com/auschoolwebinars
Hannah Ingram
HT Teaching & Learning
ANZAC Day - Whole School Assembly
ANZAC Day - Whole School Assembly
NHSPA commemorated Anzac Day in a special Anzac assembly on Thursday 23 April. The assembly was led by Peeraya and Diksha in Year 11 and Freddie in Year 10, delivering an informative and moving speech that they wrote with the help of Jensen in Year 11. Freddie represented the Australian Army Cadets for the occasion, wearing full dress uniform and explaining the significance of the rising sun emblem on his slouch hat.
Teka in Year 8 played the Last Post beautifully on his trumpet to the rapt assembly.
At this event, NHSPA proudly honoured the courage, sacrifice and service of those who have served our nation.
VOX POP
Year 12s
Studying for their Term 1 Half-Yearlies.
Financial markets for Business Studies. The Tempest and Hag-Seed for Advanced English; One Night the Moon for Standard English.
Year 11s
Studying in the Library for their Half-Yearly Maths exam with Ms Vicki Stewart, Relieving Head Teacher Mathematics.
DANCE
WELCOME BACK TO TERM 2!
Welcome back to Term 2, which for the Dance Department is a very busy Performance term with many Showcase Concerts and Dance Festivals. Please see an outline below of the performance schedule which indicates which Companies and classes are required for each performance:
HSC COMPOSITION SHOWCASE 6th May, 6:30pm - Year 12 dance students will present their HSC Core Composition, performed by a student from another year.
DANCE CLASSWORK SHOWCASE
Tuesday 2nd June, 7:00pm- Students in these classes will perform: 7DA0, 8 Classical Ballet, 9 Dance, 9 Dance Extension, 9 Classical Ballet, 10 Dance Extension, 11 Dance and some Year 12 Dance students (this will be communicated to the students).
Wednesday 3rd June, 7:00pm- Students in these classes will perform: 8 Classical Ballet, 8 Dance, 9 Classical Ballet, 9 Dance Extension, 10 dance, 10 Dance Extension, some Year 12 Dance students (this will be communicated to the students).
LIGHTHOUSE DANCE PROJECT
Wednesday 9th & Thursday 10th June- Senior Repertory Company, Senior Dance Company, Senior Classical Ballet Company & Intermediate Repertory Company.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT DANCE FESTIVAL- The Newtown items have been scheduled as follows:
Tuesday 9th June- Junior Classical Ballet Company 6:15pm Show
Wednesday 10th June- Year 7 Performance Group Burg 6:15pm Show Year 7 Performance Group Callaghan 8:15pm Show
Thursday 11th June- Boys Ensemble 6:15pm Show Intermediate Dance Company Banks 8:15pm Show
Friday 12th June- Intermediate Dance Company Callaghan 6:15pm Show
DANCE SHOWCASE, Seymour Centre
Saturday 13th June- ALL Dance and Classical Ballet Companies.
DANCE HSC COMPOSITION NIGHT
Next Wednesday 6 May our Year 12 HSC Dance students will present their Core Composition in St George's Hall at 6:30pm. As part of their HSC course they are required to choreograph a solo that is performed by a younger student for both their Trial and Practical HSC examination in August. This performance is a wonderful opportunity for the Composition dancers to perform the 'works' for the first time and for Year 12 to present their work to family and friends.
The students have been working extremely hard and invite you to attend this Showcase performance, entry will be via gold coin donation with proceeds going towards a charity.
We look forward to welcoming you to a night of creativity and excellence.
Key Dance Performance Dates Semester 1 2026
Wednesday 6 May - HSC Composition Showcase, St George's Hall
Tuesday 2 & Wednesday 3 June - Dance Classwork Showcase, St George's Hall
Wednesday 10 & Thursday 11 June - Lighthouse Dance Project, St George's Hall
Saturday 13 June (ALL Day) - Dance Semester 1 Showcase, Seymour Centre
Tuesday 9 - Friday 19 June (specific dates TBA) - In the Spotlight Dance Festival, Seymour Centre
Key Dance Performance Dates Semester 2 2026
Friday 27 & Saturday 28 November - Schools Spectacular, Qudos Bank Arena
Thursday 3 & Friday 4 December - Dance Semester 2 Showcase, St George's Hall
Thursday 10 December - Finale Showcase (Specific performers TBA), Seymour Centre
DRAMA
Frantic Assembly workshop
Frantic Assembly workshop
NHSPA Year 11 and 12 students took part in an intensive physical theatre and devising workshop with artists from renowned UK company Frantic Assembly at the end of last term.
This was an incredible opportunity to learn from leading international practitioners and our students threw themselves into the full day intensively, gaining invaluable skills to support them in group devising.
Welcome Mr Joel Granger
Welcome Mr Joel Granger
The Drama Faculty is thrilled to be hosting Mr Joel Granger for his preservice teaching placement this term.
A graduate of WAAPA’s Music Theatre course, Joel's numerous credits include Elder McKinley in The Book of Mormon, Phar Lap in Phar Lap the Musical, Hairspray, Pippin, Guys and Dolls and West Side Story on Sydney Harbour (Opera Australia). Joel will be working with Ms Hardingham's classes as well as Year 8 Musical Theatre during his time at NHSPA.
Key Dates for Term 2 in DRAMA
Year 10 Extension perform in the Year 7 Welcome Event Thursday 7 May 5pm
All year 10 Drama Excursion to Saplings at Sydney Opera House Wednesday 13 May
All Year 9 Drama Students to attend Commedia dell'Arte incursion Monday 11 May
All Year 8 Drama and Musical Theatre Excursion to The Lion King Wednesday 1 July
Performance Dates for Semester 1 Drama Showcase
Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 June (Week 9), Studio Theatre
VET SCREEN & MEDIA / FILM STUDIES
YOUNG FILM MAKERS AWARDS @ LEICHHARDT TOWN HALL
Showcasing Leichhardt Town Hall as one of the new homes of film, this event presents some of the Inner West's best in an exciting film showcase. There will be screenings of new works and a panel discussion focused on exploring some of the benefits and challenges of shooting in the Inner West.
This event is an opportunity to see this venue in action and engage with the future of filmmaking. We are proud to announce that this event will be showcasing the work of 4 of our Screen & Media Student Filmmakers with the inclusion in the Festival of 2 of their films - "Communication" by Indianna Thompson and Lily Stoll (Yr 12) and "River" by Maud Destoop and Alec Compton (Yr 11).
More details for the event here: https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/leichhardt-town-hall-film-showcase-16-may
CONGRATULATIONS
CONGRATULATIONS
to Taylan Grogan
to Taylan Grogan
Taylan's film he made for VET Screen & Media "darrens_camera" has been selected as a JUNIOR CATEGORY FINALIST in the prestigious "Very Short Film Festival".
Taylan will be flown to Hobart for the Festival Event!
CONGRATULATIONS to
CONGRATULATIONS to
Indianna Thompson
Indianna Thompson
Indianna's film she made for VET Screen & Media "ALONE" has been selected in the OFFICIAL SELECTION for the prestigious "Very Short Film Festival".
Indi's film will be screened across the Hobart Premiere Weekend and be part of the Official National Tour of the Festival films.
Heartbreak High Interview
Heartbreak High Interview
Here it is - dropped on news.com.au
VET Screen & Media Students Eloise and Nika at their first media junket!
MUSIC
DIMITRIS BASIS "THE FINAL ENCORE"
DIMITRIS BASIS "THE FINAL ENCORE"
in rehearsal
in rehearsal
Full report on the concert in upcoming weeks!
MUSIC ENSEMBLES 2026
MUSIC ENSEMBLES 2026
ATTENDANCE
Your child is expected at weekly rehearsals, wearing correct school uniform, as a participating ensemble member. Prompt attendance is a vital part of the ensemble culture and learning.
If you know your child will have difficulties attending a rehearsal, emailing the school to notify that ensemble's coordinator is optimal so as to have minimal impact on your child and the ensemble.
ENSEMBLES
The Music Ensembles Program is the primary co-curricular focus of the Music Faculty, whose purpose is to enhance and extend the listening and performance skills of all students who audition and participate in Ensembles. The program works at high potential, extended and sophisticated level, the ensembles achieving professional performance status through peer and public recognition. Currently the program supports 21 ensembles running regularly through the year, and targeting a wide variety of instrumentation, vocal focus and genres.
NATIONAL
BAND
CHAMPIONSHIPS
Congratulations to these students who achieved National Junior Champions in the following categories, at the recent National Band Championships 2026.
An outstanding validation and achievement at the National level!
ALIA WALKER
FLUGELHORN
JUNIOR NATIONAL CHAMPION
AURELIA SAUNDERS
BARITONE
JUNIOR NATIONAL CHAMPION
NHSPA at the NSW Department of Education ANZAC Commemoration Service
On Thursday 23 April, NHSPA music students Estelle Field, Stella Guo and Will Donaldson represented NHSPA by performing at the DoE ANZAC service which remembers and honours teaching and other school staff who have served or continue to serve in the armed forces. This service was at the Parramatta offices and several executives were present including Murat Dizdar, Secretary of the Department of Education.
Will played the Last Post and Rouse, while Estelle and Stella performed as part of The Arts Unit Junior Singers leading the audience in the national anthems, several traditional hymns and Australian classics of I Still Call Australia Home and Always Remember.
Thank you to Amber Johnson Music Teacher for accompanying these students.
SCHOOLS SPECTACULAR FEATURED ARTIST APPLICATIONS
Applications for Schools Spectacular, as well as Pulse Alive, State Music Ensembles and other TAU initiatives have been processed and received by the school for endorsement.
Students who have auditioned for and are actively supporting the Music Cocurricular ensembles will be considered for endorsement in these TAU initiatives, accoring to our and TAU's policies.
Students must ensure they speak to Mr Miller (HT Music), prior to submitting their application to ensure both school and Principal endorsement.
The Music Cocurricular Policy can be found here, for further information and clarification:
Key Dates for Semester 1 Music
T2W3 Tue 5 May: Jazz Orchestra at Lazybones Lounge
T2W5 Tue 19 and Wed 20 May: BIG NIGHT OUT Music Showcase Concerts SGH 6pm
T2W6 Tue 26 and Wed 27 May: VIVO Music Showcase Concert SGH 6pm
T2W9 Sun 21 June: ASBOF Band Festival; Concert Band and SWE (times tba)
MUSIC SHOWCASE CONCERTS ENSEMBLE LISTS
*Please put these dates in your diary*
BIG NIGHT OUT - MAY 19th & 20th
St George's Hall, 6pm
Concert Band
Junior Choir
7/8 Extension Choir
Tango Ensemble
WOMP, Weapons of Mass Percussion
Junior Percussion
Intermediate Choir
9/10 Extension Choir
Jazz Combo
VIVO - MAY 26th & 27th
St George's Hall, 6pm
SWE, Symphonic Wind Ensemble
Senior Extension Choir
Zangari Guitar Ensemble
Senior Percussion Ensemble
Corelli String Ensemble
Senior String Ensemble
Senior Littlefield Guitar Ensemble
Junior Littlefield Guitar Ensemble
Jazz Orchestra
Do you store your instrument in the Music Storeroom?
Do you store your instrument in the Music Storeroom?
Please LABEL YOUR INSTRUMENT CASE with your name, year and a contact
e.g. school email address (in case of loss)
A colourful tag or distinctive keyring is helpful, especially if your case is black with black straps
NHSPA Vocal and Instrumental Program
NHSPA Vocal and Instrumental Program
The school provides an opportunity for students to have instrumental and/or vocal lessons at NHSPA with professional tutors. The lessons take place during the school day on a rotational basis so that students do not miss the same class each week. Most lessons are half an hour in duration once a week over each school term.
This opportunity is available to all students enrolled in Newtown High School of the Performing Arts.
Students are reminded that they need to swipe in and out of every lesson.
You can sign up for the program and access lessons using this link:
Vocal/Instrumental Tuition Program Application Form
** Currently, there is no capacity for new Vocal, Guitar or Percussion/Drum kit Applications **
For Voice, Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone, French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba, Euphonium, Percussion (Timpani, Auxiliary, Drum Kit, Mallets), Piano.
PERFORMING ARTS NOTICE!
PERFORMING ARTS NOTICE!
Notice regarding The Arts Unit Initiatives and Schools Spectacular
Initiatives offered via the Arts Unit are developed to provide performing arts opportunities to students of NSW Public Education schools statewide.
At Newtown High School of the Performing Arts, a specialist, selective entry performing arts high school in Dance, Music and Drama, we offer numerous enrichment and extension opportunities in the Performing Arts to develop the talents of our gifted students.
For a student at NHSPA to be eligible to apply for an Arts Unit initiative, they must receive the school's endorsement. This will usually be given by a Head Teacher and confirmed by the Principal.
Parents looking at opportunities for their students through the Arts Unit should get in touch with the relevant Faculty Head Teacher for guidance in this matter before seeking endorsement from NHSPA and submitting an application for Arts Unit programs.
Parents and students should be familiar with NHSPA's Dance, Drama and Music general co-curricular policies. Familiarity with these policies in tandem with consulting the faculty Head Teachers will ensure the best contextual understanding regarding opportunities for our talented students.
Links to NHSPA Co-Curricular Policies:
Please speak to the relevant Performing Arts Head Teacher if you have any questions.
MATHEMATICS
International Mathematical Modeling Challenge
In the final week of Term 1, groups of students took part in the International Mathematical Modeling Challenge, a prestigious global competition. Participants were given just five days to develop a solution to a complex real-world problem.
This year’s challenge focused on how to best distribute resources to help prevent poaching in Etosha National Park — a vast area the size of a small European country, operating with limited funding and a constrained number of trained park rangers. Students had to carefully consider how to deploy these scarce resources for maximum impact.
Our students produced some exceptional and thoughtful responses, demonstrating deep engagement with both the mathematics and the real-world context. They should be very proud of their efforts.
Math Modeling Club
Math Modeling Club meets every Monday at lunchtime in C7. In these sessions, students explore how mathematics can be applied to solve real-world problems.
The club is open to all students, regardless of their most recent maths results. We especially encourage those with strengths in writing, research, creative or critical thinking to join and contribute their unique perspectives.
Maths Talent Quest
This term, Newtown High School of the Performing Arts will be running its first-ever Maths Talent Quest!
The National Mathematics Talent Quest (MTQ) is a nationwide competition that invites students to undertake real-world, mathematically based investigations, either independently or as part of a class. Through participation, students learn to think and work like mathematicians — collaboratively, creatively, and in ways that can make a meaningful impact.
Projects are due by the end of the term. Winners of the Newtown round will go on to represent the school at the state level.
For more information, please see Ms Carter in the maths staffroom, or attend a Math Modeling Club session on Monday lunchtime in C7 for support and guidance.
For inspiration, you can explore this list of project ideas:
https://www.mav.vic.edu.au/Tenant/C0000019/00000001/downloads/Student%20activities/MTQ/100_Inspiring_MTQ_Titles.pdf
Year 11 Assessments
This week, our Year 11 students completed their very first senior Mathematics exam — an important milestone in their academic journey.
We are incredibly proud of the focus, preparation, and perseverance they demonstrated. Well done to all students — we look forward to seeing you build on this strong start.
HSIE
Year 11 Geography Field Trip
On Monday 23 March, the Year 11 Geography students travelled to Oatley Park to undertake some field research as part of their mandatory preliminary HSC course. The focus was on Earth’s Natural Systems, investigating the interactions between the 4 key systems that make up our world – the atmospheric, hydrological, geomorphic and ecological systems.
After a well-timed series of train trips and a very pleasant walk through the streets of Oatley, we entered the gates of Oatley Park where the serenity of the natural surrounds immediately washed over us. Kookaburras, cockatoos, king parrots and lorikeets greeted our arrival enthusiastically as we proceeded deeper into this truly beautiful oasis in the suburbs of Sydney, adjacent to the Georges River.
Despite a little bit of light drizzle in the middle part of the day, the students undertook a series of practical investigations into the relevant functioning elements that make up the park.
After some initial forest bathing, the students did some field sketching and microscopic analysis of different parts of the park’s ecology. Students then worked in groups to complete a transect activity, carrying out a series of recordings using various geographical instruments and equipment.
Following a picturesque waterside lunch break on Jewfish Beach, students conducted water testing and assessment of the water quality of this patch of the river.
Throughout the day, students were deeply engaged, represented the school very well and hopefully gained a solid understanding of some of the practical aspects of geographical research that can potentially be applied to their own Geographical Investigation task next term.
12 Geography Excursion to Cabbage Tree Bay, Manly
Underneath a bright and sunny autumn sky, our intrepid Year 12 Geographers gathered at Corelli’s Gate, ready for an adventure to Manly to undertake further fieldwork as part of their senior geographic studies. It was early in term 2 and what better way to ‘dive’ back into the term after the holidays, than to immerse oneself into the beauty of the stunning underwater world that lies right on our doorstep here in Sydney. The focus of the day’s activities was on Ecosystems and Global Biodiversity as well as some consideration of Tourism and its contribution or lack thereof to Global Sustainability.
A train to Circular Quay, a leisurely cruise across the harbour via ferry to Manly and then a sunny stroll through Manly, brought us to our destination at Shelley Beach. From there, it was all action stations. Wetsuits on, flippers, masks and snorkels fitted and then into the brisk, clear waters (pool noodle for extra floatation optional). We were lucky enough to witness a huge array of marine life. Cabbage Tree Bay is known for its diverse habitats like rocky reefs, seagrass beds, and sponge gardens, which provide shelter and food for a wide range of marine creatures.
Initially some friendly fishes were curious to check out these somewhat ungainly lumps that had just entered their realm. As we ventured further out into the bay, more aquatic delights revealed themselves. Giant cuttlefish, Eagle rays, brown stingrays, Port Jackson Sharks, blue gropers, and wobbegongs were among the different sea life that were spotted going about their underwater lives. Along with these, were great schools of many different fish species.
As we reached the extent of our travels out into the bay and turned back towards the beach, more delights awaited us. The return journey brought us to octopus, green sea turtles and even more brightly coloured and inquisitive little fishes. As is often the case in such situations, the hours seemed to fly past. We would have loved more time to explore but it was time to return to shore and get warm again, before a quick expedition around the Bower headland to look at the range of biodiversity present and its contribution to the Cabbage Tree Bay ecosystem.
Throughout the day, the students were outstandingly behaved and received much positive feedback from Damien and his team running the day’s events.
David Cole
SOCIETY & CULTURE AT NHSPA
This year, NHSPA proudly introduces Society and Culture for the first time, and our students have hit the ground running. From the outset, they have engaged deeply with course content and research methods, developing skills that go well beyond the classroom.
For their first assessment task, students designed and conducted their own primary research focus groups, investigating a controversial issue of their choice. By combining primary and secondary research, they were able to triangulate data, challenge their own assumptions, and form well-evidenced new positions - all while demonstrating ethical research throughout the process.
Students achieved excellent results and are already looking ahead to applying their growing research skills in future investigations. We are excited to see where this new subject takes them!
SCIENCE
Year 9 Energy Assessments
Year 9 students recently completed their Energy assessment, applying their understanding through hands-on circuit construction alongside written responses demonstrating their Working Scientifically skills.
Students built both series and parallel circuits, correctly configuring components such as power supplies, resistors and meters to demonstrate their proficiency in circuit construction.
Year 8 Living Systems Presentations
Our Year 8 students have been busy exploring Living Systems through a hands-on assessment task.
Working in pairs, they researched either a human body system or a plant system and created detailed A2 posters, combining clear written explanations with carefully labelled scientific diagrams. Students then presented their work to the class, demonstrating their understanding of how these systems function and how their components interact to support life.
TAS
Year 11 Food Technology
Last term, Year 11 Food Technology students explored the factors that influence food selection, examining the psychological, social, and economic influences on food choices and eating habits. As part of their practical learning experiences, students investigated strategies for eating on a budget while still maintaining balanced and nutritious meals.
In these images, students can be seen preparing a cost-effective beef-and-tomato pasta dish, applying their knowledge of meal planning, budgeting, and food preparation. Through these activities, students developed a greater understanding of how individuals and families can make informed food choices while managing financial constraints.
Year 10 Food Technology
Year 10 Food Technology students have been exploring the process of food product development through a hands-on design challenge inspired by a fictional pie company they developed themselves. Students were tasked with creating an innovative pie aimed at a teenage market while also addressing a specific health need.
Throughout the term, students generated and researched ideas, surveyed 20–30 teenage students to gather consumer feedback, and refined their concepts before selecting one final product to develop.
Over several practical lessons, students learned pie-making skills while testing and modifying their recipes based on sensory evaluation feedback provided by classmates.
Students then designed professional packaging for their products, including nutrition information panels and food labels that complied with current food standards legislation, before developing marketing plans to promote their pies to teenage consumers.
The creativity, problem-solving, and practical skills demonstrated throughout this unit have been outstanding.
Below are photographs of students preparing their pies and completing sensory evaluations as part of the development process.
Year 8 Technology Mandatory
TAS has recently introduced a new unit of work in Year 8: The Cam Toy. This timber-based project introduces the concept of engineering, where a rotating cam can enable movement in the creative, fun toy design. So far, students have really enjoyed the challenge.
YEAR 7
YEAR 7
Our Year 7 Technology Mandatory students have shown excellent skill and enthusiasm throughout the Boom Box project.
They applied accurate measurement and construction techniques, producing high-quality outcomes while working safely with a range of tools and equipment.
BOOM BOX PROJECT
BOOM BOX PROJECT
Students demonstrated creativity in the finishing stages, with each Boom Box reflecting individual design choices. They also developed a strong understanding of the engineering principles behind their projects and communicated their ideas clearly using appropriate technical language in their Design Folios.
TECHNOLOGY MANDATORY
TECHNOLOGY MANDATORY
Overall, this project has been a strong demonstration of practical skills, creativity, and design thinking.
Year 8 Master Designer Textiles
Last term, students were designing and developing textile prints using Affinity software and have produced creative and technically skilled designs. Their designs have been printed over the school holidays by a local manufacturer using a direct-to-fabric printing method on a 100% Cotton Drill fabric. This Term, students will be busy cutting and preparing their printed fabric to then sew and make reusable lunch storage bags.
PDHPE & SPORT
Opens Boys & Girls Football Knockout Out - Round 1
Opens Boys & Girls Football Knockout Out - Round 1
The Opens Girls Football team faced Engadine High School under challenging circumstances, taking the field with only 10 players. Despite this disadvantage, the team displayed great determination and resilience, trailing by just three goals at half time. As the match progressed, fatigue began to take its toll and the opposition extended their lead, with the final score finishing 8–0.
The Opens Boys Football team made a strong start, taking an early 1–0 lead and carrying that advantage into half time. Belmore Boys High School responded with determination in the second half, fighting back to claim a 2–1 victory. Despite the result, our boys played exceptionally well and demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship throughout the match.
U15s Girls & Boys Football Knock Out - Round 1 - Bill Turner Cup & Trophy
U15s Girls & Boys Football Knock Out - Round 1 - Bill Turner Cup & Trophy
The U15s Girls Football team opened the day with a strong performance against Marrickville High School, who were coming off a win in their first match. The girls started confidently, taking control early and heading into half time with a 3–1 lead. They maintained this dominance throughout the second half, finishing with an impressive 6–1 victory. A special mention goes to Meg McVeigh for an outstanding performance, scoring five goals in the match.
The U15s Boys Football team put in a strong performance against Blakehurst High School, starting the match with confidence and taking an early 1–0 lead. Blakehurst responded just before half time to level the score at 1–1, shifting the momentum of the game. In the second half, our boys found it difficult to regain their early rhythm, with Blakehurst capitalising to secure a 3–1 win.
NSW CHSSA Sailing Championships at Belmont 16ft Sailing Club Ltd
NSW CHSSA Sailing Championships at Belmont 16ft Sailing Club Ltd
Congratulations to Freddie (Yr 10) and Henry (Yr 7) for competing during the Term 1 school holidays!
Of the 83 boats entered, Freddie placed 21st overall. Because of the variety of boats, classes are split up into 5 divisions: in his division Freddie came 3rd!
Australian Rowing Championships Congratulations to Mia (Yr 11) who alongside her brother Petar (NHSPA Alumni) travelled to Tasmania to compete in the championship.
Australian Rowing Championships Congratulations to Mia (Yr 11) who alongside her brother Petar (NHSPA Alumni) travelled to Tasmania to compete in the championship.
Mia raced in the school girl single, double and quad scull categories, reaching the semi-finals in the double and quad events. Well done in such windy conditions which lead to program delays and sinking boats!
Mia raced in the school girl single, double and quad scull categories, reaching the semi-finals in the double and quad events. Well done in such windy conditions which lead to program delays and sinking boats!
Respectful Relationships PDPHPE Program
Respectful Relationships PDPHPE Program
This year, NHSPA is participating in the DoE's Respectful Relationship program. It involves NHSPA Staff across a range of faculties working together in our 'Wellbeing: Inclusion & Diversity' Collaboration Hub which meet twice a term.
Working in small action groups, the hub is working with specific year groups to target impovement in positive and respectful relationships within the NHSPA community, with the aim of assisting students to develop the skills necessary to being positive citizens and thrive in society. We are using the program framework (pictured on the right) to review current programs at NHSPA to evaluate and improve 2026 implementation.
Current workings involve the following:
Year 11 - Multiculturalism
Year 10 - Change and transition into Senior School
Year 9 - Racism
Throughout the year, students will be involved through the following:
Year meetings
PDHPE lessons
Extra-curricular programs
**The information note has been sent to parent and student emails for access to the links**
Keep up to date!
Keep up to date!
NHSPA Athletics Carnival - Monday 4 May
Zone Cross Country - Monday 25 May - notes will be sent home via School Bytes shortly
Sydney East Cross Country - Wednesday 10 June
Sydney East Gymnastics Trials - Tuesday 9 June
REMINDER !
A reminder that Year 7-10 students must be in full (shirt and shorts/pants) sport uniform on Tuesdays and PDHPE practical lessons.
Please encourage your child to bring and wear a hat when they are outside.
KEEP UP TO DATE !
KEEP UP TO DATE !
Newtown High School Facebook page
Newtown High School of Performing Arts
Bligh Zone website
https://www.blighsssa.nsw.edu.au/
Sydney East Schools Sports Association
Sydney East Schools Sports Association | Arncliffe NSW
Sydney East Schools Sports Association - Home
Disability & Inclusion
Library - Dr Trish Kennedy
Out of the Archive
In the last staff photograph for Newtown High School, the subjects look a little solemn, perhaps because they were not only parting ways with cherished colleagues but facing the glare of an uncertain future. As the 1989 magazine notes, many of the “devoted staff” had "never taught anywhere else”, with 17th of November marking the end of one era and the “beginning of a new one” on a site now dedicated to excellence in the performing arts.
The last staff Newtonians: Barry Jenkins, Principal, is pictured in the foreground. Newtown Boys High School (1962-1976) and its later incarnation as Newtown High School (1977-1989) catered exclusively to boys’ education.
Tableau of dancers at NHSPA c. 1990
Boys performing at Newtown High School
Yet earlier newsletters hint at student personalities who relished performance long before the establishment of NHSPA. Just as the two boys astride stilts (at some point in the 1980s) channelled fairground culture, the boys vying for attention in the group shot evoke the dynamism of students as adept at staging a performance as our current cohort of actors.
Barry Jenkins, the last principal of the fully comprehensive Newtown High School asserted the long standing diversity of school enrolments in his closing statements: “Always there have been talented boys; boys who have excelled academically, boys who have had a true talent in art or music. Newtown has nurtured that talent or ability and successes have been applauded”.
HSC Minimum Standards
This week, in the Year meeting, Year 10 began preparing for their HSC Minimum Standards Tests which will be conducted this term.
All students in NSW need to reach a minimum standard of functional literacy and numeracy to receive the HSC. Students show they have reached the required minimum standard of numeracy and literacy by completing 3 tests. One on each of Numeracy, Reading and Writing.
Students have many opportunities to demonstrate their standard of Numeracy and Literacy throughout Year 10 -12 and NHSPA will be supporting all students to attain their Minimum Standards, beginning this term.
Please find links to:
1. information from the NSW Department of Education on the HSC Minimum Standards and
https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/nesa/hsc/minimum-standard
2. the skills students will demonstrate in the three online tests.
https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/nesa/hsc/minimum-standard/skills-needed
Students will be given the opportunity to sit a practice test in each of the three domains in Week 3 before attempting the online tests in Week 4 and 5. Students have been emailed their NESA numbers to activate their schoolsonline accounts and have also received a link to the lockdown browser used for all three Minimum Standard tests.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Tommy Piccinelli (Year 7) who recently had the opportunity to be part of the children’s chorus in Turandot with Opera Australia at the Sydney Opera House.
Tommy has had many wponderful opportunities, having also appeared in the children’s chorus for La Bohème last year and in Manon with the The Australian Ballet. He feels very fortunate to continue developing his love of performing on stage and screen.
Well done, Tommy!
NHSPA P&C Fundraiser
NHSPA P&C Fundraiser
Support our school and save while you spend
NHSPA P&C is fundraising with the Entertainment Book. It’s a fantastic (and easy!) way to support the school and save money at the same time.
When you purchase your Entertainment membership you’ll get immediate access to the Entertainment app, with thousands of discounts across Australia, NZ and beyond:
· Discounts at local favourites like Corelli’s Café
· Vouchers for Dendy and Event Cinemas, bowling and theme parks
· Save 3% or more on everyday essentials at Woolworths, IGA, Uber, Target, EG fuel … and many more!
Plus go in the draw to win:
· Spectacular Baltic cruise including flights, hotel, transfers, and premium onboard inclusions for two people
· The ultimate expedition to Antarctica
Your 12-month Entertainment membership costs $75, with 20% going direct to the P&C to support our school. Plus … buy before 14 May and get a second membership FREE – so you can share the savings with a friend!
Check out what’s included and buy online:
https://subscribe.entertainment.com.au/fundraiser/9g71273
WELLBEING
Newtown Neighbourhood Centre Challenge 2006
The Everyday Challenge is a new community fundraiser that invites neighbours across Newtown to take part in a 48-hour food budget challenge during Neighbourhood Week (12 - 18th May).
Sign up, donate via the link:
From our Counsellors
If you are interested in learning more about how to support your child through turbulent teenage years, you might find the following websites useful:
https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/teens-screens/parents/
NHSPA ALUMNI NETWORK
2026 Extra-Curricular Activities on offer to NHSPA students
2026 Extra-Culrricular Activities.pdfTo enlarge, click right top corner (2 pages)
AFTER SCHOOL STUDY CENTRE
AFTER SCHOOL STUDY CENTRE
To support learners in developing effective study habits the school will run an after-school study centre during term times on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday afternoons from 3:25pm-5:00pm in the school Library.
This is open to all students, providing a quiet environment in which focussed study could take place.
Whilst attendance every week is not compulsory, should your child wish to use this facility, it is recommended that they be regular in their attendance for effective learning to occur.
The study centre will be supervised by a staff member between the times above to assist learners with organisation, planning, and developing successful study habits should they so wish.
This is an excellent opportunity for students to form small study teams to work together to improve their understanding of concepts and spur each other on to achieve a personal best in their subjects.
Expectations for attendance are as follows:
Students
respect the rights of other learners and so maintain a quiet learning environment.
desire to improve their performance in subjects.
use this time productively.
be regular in attendance.
The centre has been shown to be an effective way for improving students' results, confidence, and organisation in an enjoyable, relaxed environment.
THE ASSC IS A QUIET SPACE TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR LEARNING AND SEEK HELP FROM STAFF
VACCINATIONS Year 7 - Friday 22 May 2026
VACCINATIONS Year 7 - Friday 22 May 2026
NSW Schools Vaccination Program
NSW Schools Vaccination Program
As part of the NSW School Vaccination Program 2026, the following vaccines will be offered free of charge at school:
Year 7 students:
• diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine – 1 dose
• human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine – 1 dose
Year 10 students:
• meningococcal ACWY vaccine – 1 dose
To have your child vaccinated at school, you need to give your permission (consent) either online or by filling out and returning the paper consent form.
To Provide Consent:
1. Read the school vaccination program information. Translations are available. Please refer to the NSW Health webpage:
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/school_vaccination_language.asp
2. Sign the consent form — you can do this online or on a paper consent form.
3. Return the consent form back to school as soon as you can.
4. Talk to your child about getting vaccinated. Information for students.
5. To give consent online visit: https://engage.health.nsw.gov.au/engage or scan the QR code below.
You Will Need:
1. Medicare card details for you and your child
2. name of the secondary school your child will attend in Year 7 or Year 10
3. your Service NSW login details (this is the same account you might use to renew
your driver’s license)
4. if you don’t have a Service NSW account, you can create one by visiting
https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/services/myservicensw-account/how-to-create-an-account
More Information:
For detailed steps on how to provide consent, please watch the How to Provide Consent Video or refer to the NSW Health webpage:
(https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/online-consent-school-vaccination.aspx).
If you or your child does not have a Medicare card, internet access or you are unable to complete the online consent, ask your child's school for a paper consent form.
On vaccination day, children should eat a good breakfast and wear a short-sleeve shirt like their sports uniform. After getting the vaccine children can play sport, shower, and do afterschool activities as normal.
For more information on routine school vaccinations, please visit:
www.health.nsw.gov.au/schoolvaccination.
For a detailed video explanation of how to provide consent, please click the following link:
https://vimeo.com/877304083/da667f7044
Please note Vaccinations for Year 7 are scheduled for Friday 22 May 2026
TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS
Newtown High School of the Performing Arts has been very fortunate since its establishment in 1990 to enjoy the extra support of parents, carers, our alumni, and the wider community.
We are delighted to announce the establishment of the Newtown High School of the Performing Arts School Library Fund.
Together with the St George’s Hall Trust Fund, which was established in 1993, there is now a second tax deductible way our community can contribute to the school.
Tax deductible donations to these funds greatly contribute to the provision of the best educational opportunities and facilities for our students and community.
TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS
St George’s Hall Trust Fund Performing Arts Donation
This donation is to support the school’s performing and visual arts endeavours. We suggest a donation of $200 per year per family or any amount which is tax deductible through our St George’s Hall Trust Fund. Each year donations provide funding for technical equipment, musical instruments and professional industry workshops for students which enrich our programs and extend students’ opportunities. Donation(s) may be made on the School Bytes statement or Parent Portal.
Library Fund Donation
The Library Fund is a tax-deductible fund established in 2025. Library Fund donations will be used for the following:
• new books
• computer/software and hardware
• library furniture such as bookshelves, booth seating, library displays and archival preservation
Donations made to the St George’s Hall Trust Fund or the school Library Fund are fully tax-deductible as charitable contributions under the ATO provisions.
OTHER DONATIONS
School Donation
If you would like to make a general donation to the school, please include the amount you wish to donate at the designated section via the School Bytes statement which will be emailed to you in the beginning of Term 1. Please note, this donation is not tax deductible. Donation(s) may be made on the School Bytes statement or Parent Portal.
NHSPA P&C Donation
The P&C relies on voluntary fundraising donations as their primary means of fundraising. We suggest a donation of $50.00 per year per family. Funds collected are allocated to fund items or projects in consultation with the school. P&C members support the school to ensure our children have the very best educational opportunities possible and our aim, when allocating funds, is to have whole of school impact.
The P&C works with the school to identify and implement specific funding for a variety of initiatives. One such initiative was the purchase of mega decking, consisting of stage legs and braces, which were used for the 2023 production of the Musical ‘Sweeney Todd’ and ‘Legally Blonde’ in 2025. In 2025 a laser cutter for the TAS faculty was partially funded through the P&C. Other items purchased in the past include the new school bell, PA security system and large fan in the gym.
ARCO Anti-Racism Contact Officer (ARCO)
ARCO Anti-Racism Contact Officer (ARCO)
The Role of the Anti-Racism Contact Officer (ARCO)
in Our School
At Newtown High School of the Performing Arts, we are dedicated to ensuring an inclusive, respectful, and equitable environment where every student feels safe and valued. A critical component of this commitment is the role of our Anti-Racism Contact Officer (ARCO).
Who is the ARCO?
We have three Anti-Racism Contact Officers at our school: Mr J Emsley, Ms Y Mak, and Mr V Zitser. They are specially trained staff members who support students, staff, and families in understanding, addressing, and preventing racism within our school community. Their work ensures our school remains a welcoming space for all, regardless of background.
What does the ARCO do?
Provides Support: Offers guidance to those experiencing or witnessing racism and ensures concerns are handled appropriately.
Promotes Education & Awareness: Leads initiatives, workshops, and discussions to foster respect, understanding, and inclusion.
Implements Policies: Enforces the NSW Department of Education’s anti-racism policies, ensuring all complaints are managed fairly and effectively.
Monitors & Reports: Tracks trends and collaborates with school leadership to develop strategies that prevent racism and promote inclusivity.
Engages with the Community: Works with parents, local groups, and external organisations to extend anti-racism efforts beyond the classroom.
Why Does This Role Matter?
Racism has no place in our school or society. The ARCO helps create a positive, supportive learning environment where every student can thrive. By promoting awareness, understanding, and respect, we strengthen our school’s values and commitment to equity.
How Can You Get Support?
If you experience or witness racism or would like to learn more about anti-racism initiatives, our Anti-Racism Contact Officers, Mr J Emsley, Ms Y Mak, and Mr V Zitser, are here to help. You can reach out to these staff confidentially for support, guidance, and resources.
For further information about the ARCO role and anti-racism education, visit the NSW Department of Education website:
https://education.nsw.gov.au/teaching-and-learning/multicultural-education/anti-racism-education
Together, let’s continue building a school community that celebrates diversity and stands against racism.
NSW Term Dates 2026
School Term Dates
First and last days for all students
School Term Dates
First and last days for all students
Term 1: Monday 2 February to Thursday 2 April 2026
Term 2: Wednesday 22 April to Friday 3 July 2026
Term 3: Tuesday 21 July to Friday 25 September 2026
Term 4: Tuesday 13 October to Thursday 17 December 2026
NHSPA Calendar 2026 - Term 2
NHSPA CALENDER TERM 2 2026.pdfTo enlarge, click right top corner
NHSPA CANTEEN
NHSPA CANTEEN
ORDER ONLINE
ORDER ONLINE
Online ordering now available. To place orders online, you will need to create a Flexischools account
Flexischools: Australia’s #1 School Canteen Online Ordering App (opens in new window)
SAFE INTERNET
PARENT ADVICE for Cyber Bullying from the eSafetyCommissioner
Use parental controls: Parental controls are software tools that allow you to monitor and limit what your child sees and does online.
They can be set up to do things like:
Block your child from accessing specific websites, apps or functions (like using a device’s camera, or the ability to buy things).
Filter different kinds of content — such as ‘adult’ or sexual content, content that may promote self-harm, eating disorders, violence, drugs, gambling, racism and terrorism.
Allow you to monitor your child’s use of connected devices, with reports on the sites they visit and the apps they use, how often and for how long.
Set time limits, blocking access after a set time.
If a device or program is shared by multiple members of your family, you should be able change the tool settings to reflect each user’s age and skills.
For further parental support please see the below links.
https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/issues-and-advice/parental-controls
https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/issues-and-advice/cyberbullying
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