Embedded Files
LAND OF THE GADIGAL PEOPLE OF THE EORA NATION
BULLETIN 12 - Term 3 - Friday 30 August 2024
Message from our Deputy Principal Wellbeing, Mr Karl Pico
Message from our Deputy Principal Wellbeing, Mr Karl Pico
Term 3 is always an exciting and eventful time, with our Year 12 students completing their major works and preparing for their practical performances and project submissions. The work exhibited by our talented dancers, musicians, writers, performers, artists, and designers reflects their commitment, dedication and passion to their courses. It is always a highlight when the school community comes together to celebrate the completion of major works and to hear from the students about the concepts and inspiration underpinning their works. Congratulations to all HSC students and their teachers who have put in long hours to support the students to achieve their best.
A huge congratulations to our senior debating team consisting of Josephine Bradfield, Rafael Gonzalez, Lola Merewether, Scarlett Saunders, Emma Walker and Karys Werstak, for winning the Premier's Debating Challenge. Well done to Debating coach and English Teacher, Ms Ellis, who mentored the team and has given the students the support, time and resources needed to achieve this success.
The Duke of Edinburgh award scheme helps young people build confidence, resilience and independence as they take on new challenges, develop their passion and engage with the wider community. Several students from Years 10 to 12 are currently involved and working through their bronze, silver or gold awards. Congratulations to Freddie Lawrence, Dylan Noble, Kaisey McCelland and William Smith who have achieved a Gold Duke of Edinburgh award. This is an outstanding achievement involving a five day residential program, four day adventure journey and twelve months of refining a skill, volunteering and physical recreation.
The Years 10 and 11 information sessions provided a valuable opportunity for students and parents to learn about the HSC credential and to make informed decisions about their pattern of study in the senior years. Students this week have been meeting with their curriculum advisers to discuss curriculum choices for 2025 and post high school plans. It has been a huge pleasure hearing students talk about their future goals with confidence and positivity.
Our students were fortunate to attend an “in-house” Careers Expo to assist them to focus on future education pathways and possible career options. A big thank you to our Careers Advisor, Ms George, and her team of volunteers for organising the Expo and to Deputy Principal, Ms Scanlan, for her important presentation on HSC requirements. Thank you to the Executive and staff who were on hand to discuss course offerings and subject information with Year 10 students and their parents.
The Year 10 skiers left for Jindabyne and Perisher on Friday 23 August and without Mr Cole’s energy and expertise, this excursion would not have been the success that it was. Thank you to all the staff who have willingly volunteered to enable the Alpine excursion to take place and provide our students an opportunity to extend and challenge themselves.
Year 11 students are now preparing for their final exams in Weeks 8 and 9 and looking towards starting the HSC. Thank you to Ms Johnson and Mr Podreka who have organised the Years 11 to 12 transition program to support students cope with the increased demands of the HSC. This week, all Year 11 students participated in a seminar Managing HSC Stress presented by the UTS Kidman Centre. Students will also be participating in Ace Your Exam workshop, a financial literacy seminar, and hear from current and former students as part of the HSC advice forum.
On Thursday 29 August afternoon, staff participated in the first of two Twilight School Development Days. This was in lieu of the School Development Day on Friday 20 December. Staff worked in their faculties in developing new teaching and learning programs and scope and sequences, in line with the new curriculum. The next Twilight SDD will be on 22 October. This will be facilitated by Hayley Saunders, Aboriginal Education, Strategic Delivery Adviser who will run two Cultural Awareness Professional Learning sessions for our staff. We look forward to these engaging and informative sessions.
Students at NHSPA continue to uphold the school values of excellence, creativity and equity as well as inclusion and diversity. Our leadership team has been busy organising events to celebrate Wear it Purple Day and ensure that NHSPA is a supportive, safe and empowering space for everyone. Thank you to Dean and Lauren, our Student Support Officers, and their team of student volunteers for organising another dynamic and colourful celebration.
Careers Expo
Uniform
Newtown High School of the Performing Arts is a uniform school. Uniform is only one aspect of the high expectations culture of our school and our uniform is looking good!
There has been a very visible improvement this term and that is fantastic to see. And we know it will continue to improve as uniform expectations become accustomed practice.
Students are expected to be in correct uniform every day. If there is a reason that a student cannot be in uniform on a particular day, a note, signed by parent/carer, needs to be given to the Swipe Room before school and the student will receive a uniform pass.
Uniform is a safety issue, a social issue around equity, around image, and uniform is often linked with behaviour.
A REMINDER TO EVERYONE:
NHSPA sports trackpants are allowed ✓
Jeans or leggings are not allowed X
NHSPA jackets/jumpers are allowed ✓
Non-school jumpers or hoodies are not allowed X
Black leather shoes must be worn ✓
Thank you to the SEED Student Leadership Team (led by Head Teacher Teaching & Learning, Ms Hannah Hindmarsh), who are designing an NHSPA Hoodie which will be added soon to our uniform options.
A lunchtime detention (half lunch) will be issued if a student is out of uniform more than three times.
An email will be sent alerting parents/carers that their child has been out of uniform and asking for their support.
Pickles has informed us that they have recently been low in sizes 12 and 14 sweaters, but they should be in stock now. If you have any questions about accessing the correct uniform from Pickles, or difficulty paying for our uniform, or any queries, please contact the school.
Student Attendance
The evidence is clear that consistent attendance is the essential first step for your child to have a positive experience at school. Every day matters for your child’s learning. In recent years we’ve seen too many students miss a day of school here and there. Missing school for students means missing assignments, time with friends, an important Maths lesson or getting picked for a sports team. With days missed, years are lost.
Students are required to attend school every day, whether it’s the first or last day of the term, Mondays, Fridays or days dedicated to sports carnivals, school excursions and incursions. Help us make sure your child is achieving their best and stays ahead in their learning with regular school attendance. The more time your child attends school, the greater their opportunity to learn and improve their wellbeing. Together, let’s build positive attendance habits for a lifetime.
If your child is absent from school, please let us know why as soon as possible, even if it is just a few minutes at the start or end of the school day. Of course, there will be times when your child is unable to be at school (like when they are unwell). Medical appointments should take place outside school hours where possible and family holidays should be taken in term breaks.
If your child is feeling anxious about coming to school and you need support, please reach out to your child’s Deputy Principal, Year Adviser or myself (Deputy Principal, Karl Pico) directly. Our staff are here to work with you and your child to help them attend school each and every day. There are also helpful resources for parents and carers on the Every Day Matters website.
Thank you again for working with our teachers and support staff to make sure your child is at school, on time, every day. We all want to see our students learn, grow and belong in our equitable and outstanding education system.
Newtown High School of the Performing Arts
News From Our Prefects
News From Our Prefects
Year 12 students are gearing up for their graduation and studying extremely hard for their upcoming HSC exams
We wish them all the best !
If you have any suggestions/ ideas or feedback for the Prefects, please come and speak to us or fill out this form:
Vox Pop
Vox Pop
Lots of Romeo and Juliets being covered...
Is office duty hard work?
"No, not really, just time consuming".
English
English
NEWTOWN WINS STATE-WIDE DEBATING COMPETITION
NEWTOWN WINS STATE-WIDE DEBATING COMPETITION
The victorious Newtown High School of the Performing Arts Year 12 Debating Team with Jack Taylor - Head Teacher English and Cass Ellis - English Debating Teacher.
Nearly 170 schools participated in the 2024 NSW Premier’s Debating Challenge, culminating in a thrilling finale at Sydney University.
Ben Worsley: Principal Media Officer DoE, reports.
Extract from NSW Government website - Education.
Sport and politics – it is a perennial debate that receives vigorous attention every four years when the Olympics take over our screens.
So, it was a fitting topic for the final of this year’s NSW Premier’s Debating Challenge, at Sydney University’s Great Hall.
Just a few weeks since the thrilling conclusion to the Paris Games, Newtown High School of the Performing Arts took on Kirrawee High to debate ‘that the Olympic Games should always remain politically neutral’.
Newtown took the negative and won the day, arguing successfully that individuals need to make political statements during global events to effect meaningful social change.
Newtown student Scarlett Saunders said it was a timely topic.
“The topic was so recent that we all had a strong knowledge of it,” she said.
“It wasn’t the first preference for either team, though in hindsight it was a good topic for the audience.”
The final was the culmination of the 2024 state-wide knockout debating competition, involving 167 teams and roughly 660 senior students.
Victorious Newtown student Lola Merewether said the return to face-to-face debating was one of the challenges the teams had to overcome.
“The experience was very nerve-racking because we have done so many years of online debating,” she said.
“It was great to finally debate in an environment like the Great Hall. It felt like the experience matched the effort we put in.”
All debates during the competition had a one-hour preparation period followed by speeches of eight minutes.
Team member Josephine Bradfield said the Newtown team did not expect to win, which took the pressure off in the final.
“We started debating to improve our communication skills and enjoy ourselves,” she said.
“We didn’t really know each other before we started debating together, though it has really given us a bond.”
Newtown coach Cassandra Ellis said she could not be prouder of the team’s efforts.
“They were never complacent with their success, taking every opportunity to seek feedback from the adjudicators on how to improve their performances for future debates, writing pages of reflective notes and poring over the details leading into the next debate,” she said.
Scarlett Saunders said it was an incredible feeling when the team was announced as the winners.
“The school has never won the competition before,” she said.
“This was my tenth-year debating and given that this might be one of my last opportunities, I am really glad to finish the competition this way.”
Orange High School was the best placed regional school, finishing third.
YEAR 12 EXTENSION 2 ENGLISH MAJOR WORKS
YEAR 12 EXTENSION 2 ENGLISH MAJOR WORKS
presentation in the NHSPA Library
presentation in the NHSPA Library
CAREERS EXPO - Thursday 22 August 2024
Careers Crowd
Careers Crowd
The star organisers amongst many
The star organisers amongst many
Ula George, Careers Advisor and Zoe Martins, Administrative Officer
Ula George, Careers Advisor and Zoe Martins, Administrative Officer
Thank you to all our parents and carers for being part of the EXPO and Subject Information afternoon.
It was wonderful to see the energy and collaboration between parents, students, exhibitors and staff in seeking the optimum pathway for our children’s future.
Some of the comments from the exhibitors:
Your students were so respectful and engaged in the conversations and asked such relevant questions
It was also wonderful to see so many parents/carers being part of the conversations
It's always a pleasure coming to the NHSPA EXPO
We could have stayed all day!
TAS Fashion Show
TAS Fashion Show
The Year 12 Textiles and Design Fashion Show was a true highlight of the year, with our students stealing the spotlight as they showcased their amazing garment designs. Each piece on the runway told a story of creativity, hard work, and personal expression. From the initial sketches to the final stitches, these young designers poured their hearts into their work, resulting in a stunning variety of styles—from intricate, handcrafted details to bold, statement pieces.
This event was a celebration of all the effort and growth our students have experienced throughout the year. They didn’t just learn how to design and sew; they also tackled the challenges of managing projects, meeting deadlines, and presenting their ideas with confidence. The fashion show gave them a chance to shine and share their hard work with the whole school community.
Fashion Show.MOVThe audience was truly impressed by the talent and creativity on display, making this year’s show an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
This incredible showcase would not have been possible without the dedication and support of our teachers, Dani Stephens and Simona Kanasugi.
Congratulations
to all students involved!
Design and Technology Exhibition
Year 12 Design and Technology
The Year 12 Design and Technology students are in the final stretch of completing their Major Design Projects, with the deadline set for Thursday 29 August. Their commitment and hard work have been evident as they bring their innovative ideas to life.
A showcase evening will be held on Tuesday 3 September from 5:00 pm in the Common Room to celebrate their efforts. This event will display the students' remarkable projects, highlighting their creativity and technical skills. All are invited to attend and support our talented students as they unveil their work.
HSIE - Geography
HSIE - Geography
YEAR 11 GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIP
On Wednesday 21 August, 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 and Human-Environment Interactions, two of the syllabus courses.
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 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.
The students then undertook a series of practical investigations into the relevant functioning elements that make up the park, exploring mangrove and wetland ecosystems and carrying out a series of recordings using the appropriate geographical instruments and equipment. After a very picturesque lunch break, students continued to a number of other sites within the park to do further soil sampling, water testing and field sketching activities.
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.
Skillin' It!
Skillin' It!
Skillin' It! has been running all year with the grand final taking place on Thursday 29 August in the Studio Theatre.
The winning team of four were awarded cool Skillin' It! caps. Thank you Mr Rigby!
PDHPE & Sport
PDHPE & Sport
Year 11 PDHPE First Aid Course
On Monday 19 August all Year 11 PDHPE students completed their First Aid Course (provide CPR, provide basic emergency life support and first aid).
Thank you to Carly and Tamara from 'Carlys Helping Hearts' for delivering the course and providing students with the life long skills of first aid.
Some key learnings from the day:
Administering EpiPens & Anapens
Asthma management
Soft and hard tissue injury management
CPR for adults and young people
Year 10 bstreetsmart
On Wednesday 21 August, Year 10 students adventured to Qudos Bank Arena for bstreetsmart - Smarter, Safer Drivers event.
Bstreetsmart is Australia's largest education event on road safety. It is the inspiring initiative of the Trauma Service at Westmead Hospital. Westmead’s Trauma Service is constantly reminded through their hands on work that young people aged between 15 – 30 are disproportionally represented in road trauma. As a result they have a strong commitment to Road Safety Education.
The purpose of bstreetsmart is to reduce the fatality and injury rates of young people by promoting safe behaviour as drivers, riders and passengers.
Students also saw some of their bfilmed assessment task videos projected on the big screen across the arena!
Year 8 Gala Day
On Wednesday 28 August, Year 8 students competed in the annual Bligh Zone Gala Day.
Students were divided into teams across a range of sports including soccer, oz tag, netball and basketball.
It was great to compete in friendly matches against Marrickville High School, Dulwich Hill High School of Visual Arts and Desgin, Sydney Secondary College (Balmain & Leichhardt), Strathfield Girls High School and Tempe High School.
Year 12 Football
On Tuesday 27 August, the Year 12 Football team competed in a friendly game against Sydney Secondary College Blackwattle Bay Campus.
As their secondary schooling comes to a close, we celebrate the significant contribution these students have had on our sporting community.
Junior Artistic Swimming Championships
Caterina Longhi as a member of the Junior National Artistic Swimming Team representing Australia at the Lima, Peru 2024 World Aquatics Junior Championships
SASS RECOGNITION WEEK
We wish to acknowledge and celebrate our dedicated and hard working SASS
We wish to acknowledge and celebrate our dedicated and hard working SASS
who consistently go above and beyond and are an inspiration to us all!
who consistently go above and beyond and are an inspiration to us all!
Thank you for all that you do!
School Administrative Support Staff and Others: Christina Argyri (SAM) , Adam Oliver (Business Manager), Susanne Bajic (Attendance), Joan Boyd (TAS), Anna Kapsanis (Receipting), Josie Mackay (Science Lab Ass.), Zoe Martins (Science Lab Asst. Front Office), Suzanne Priestley (Library), Cindy Stedman (Receptionist), Patricia Tsintominas (Front Office), Bernadette Van den Bergh (Front Office), Leonie Watts (Front Office), Roxanne Yates (Front Office), Natalie Fazzalaro (Casual), Lachlan Barker-Kennedy (SLSO), Bora Celebi (SLSO), Annie Lam (SLSO), Jeffrey Reiss (SLSO), Scarlett Shine (SLSO), Justine Blaylock (SLSO), David Gaynor (TSO) and Sean Giles (GA)
Dean Adams (SSO), Lauren Kalagurgevic (SSO) and Benjamin Turner (Theatre Manager)
Wear It Purple Day - Friday 30 August 2024
Wear It Purple Day - Friday 30 August 2024
MUSIC
MUSIC
HSC MUSIC SOIREE
HSC MUSIC SOIREE
Selected works from an outstanding year of HSC musicians; programs will be representative of Music 1, Music 2 and Extension.
We encourage all to attend, especially students considering HSC Music in the future, and friends and family to support this talented and hardworking group.
Tuesday 3 September, 6 pm
St Georges Hall
Entry by $5 donation (cash only please)
2024 SPRING PROM
Tickets on Sale Now https://www.trybooking.com/CUYLI
In the tradition of Proms Concerts, NHSPA invites you to an evening of fine music in a convivial Spring atmosphere.
Please bring a picnic rug and cushions for comfort, as there will be a very small number of chairs made available around the perimeter of St George's Hall. Your edible fancies of choice are encouraged, such as a fine picnic supper or savoury snacks. As such the P&C Cafe won't be running during this evening.
This is a school event and as such please refrain from bringing and consuming alcohol.
Tuesday 24 September 2024
6 pm - 9 pm St Georges Hall
DRAMA
DRAMA
Why do we say "chookas" instead of good luck?
To wish an actor 'good luck' in so many words is thought to be tempting fate so we say "chookas" instead. Apparently this is because back in the J.C Williamson days of the late 1800's a full house meant performers could afford chicken (or “chook”) for dinner. Hence, “Chook it is!” or “Chookas!” became a way to wish for a great show - and a full house.
It's HSC Drama Prac Exam time!
It's HSC Drama Prac Exam time!
It's been a very busy time in Drama with the HSC Individual Projects deadline on Monday 26 August, and Performance examinations for Group Performances and Monologues happening in the Studio from Monday to Wednesday of next week (2-4 September).
Our amazing HSC cohort have worked so hard and have, this week, handed in some extraordinary individual projects ranging from video dramas to set designs, costume designs and applied research projects. We are so excited for our students to perform for the HSC examiners next week in the performance examinations.
If you have an HSC Drama student in your life, please give them a huge round of applause for all their incredible efforts to date. And if you have an HSC Drama student in your household, we give you a round of applause too, because we know how important your support is in this process.
Chookas Year 12, we are so proud of you!
Year 10 Production News
Year 10 Production News
Rehearsals for our Year 10 Production are underway. A series of public apologies (in response to an unfortunate incident in the school lavatories) by playwright John Donnelly is a satirical play that is piercing in its interrogation of how our attempts to define ourselves in public are shaped by the fear of saying the wrong thing.
A series of public apologies (in response to an unfortunate incident in the school lavatories) was included in National Theatre Connections 2020 (pictured), an anthology which brings together 9 new plays by some of the UK's most prolific and current writers and artists. We can't wait for you to see our amazing cast's interpretation of this exciting play early in Term 4.
Meet Director Warwick Doddrell
Meet Director Warwick Doddrell
Director of our Year 10 Production, Warwick Doddrell is an award-winning director from Western Australia, creating intimate, visceral and energetic productions.
Warwick has a degree in film production and studied for his Master’s degree (Directing) at NIDA. He trained in London with the New End Theatre and has staged works in Perth, Melbourne, London and Sydney, and continues to develop new work, including a new musical of Dot and the Kangaroo, workshopped with the Victorian College of the Arts in 2018.
He has interned with Opera Australia, Michael Cassel Group, MonkeyBaa and the Ensemble Theatre, and has directed for Nate Butler Studio, Central Coast Opera, New Theatre, Old 505 Theatre and the Kings Cross Theatre, as well as assisting for Merrigong Theatre, MonkeyBaa, CDP and NIDA.
Get to know our co-curricular tutors!
Get to know our co-curricular tutors!
Drama companies are run by a combination of NHSPA teaching staff, and industry tutors.
Get to know our current tutors Tahlia Merlino, James Hartley, Katie Ord and Blake Kendall.
Tahlia Merlino is an actor, director, educator and theatre maker. A NIDA trained actor and graduate of 16th Street Actors Studio, Tahlia works as an educator at companies including ATYP & NIDA.
James Hartley is a director, writer, and actor. His short films have been screened in over 20 countries. In 2023 he wrote and directed Death in the Pantheon, nominated for Best in Theatre at the Sydney Fringe Festival.
Katie Ord is a director and actor whose credits include Chain Play: When There’s A Will, There’s A Way (Director), Birthday Bash: Quit Your Job (Director), Boom (Co-Stage Manager), Dragon Tales: Soy Sad (Director).
Blake Kendall is a creative producer, community storyteller, writer, educator, filmmaker, environmentalist and artist - as well as a NHSPA alumni who has recently returned from living and working in Berlin!
VET NEWS (Entertainment / Screen & Media)
VET NEWS (Entertainment / Screen & Media)
Our students from VET Entertainment are getting ready to finish off all the work for their Certificate 3 in Live Production and Technical Service Qualification (or attainment towards). They have recently, along with some from the Certificate 3 Screen & Media cohort, set up classroom vision systems and a full podcast bar for the Subject Selection Expo.
VISUAL ARTS
VISUAL ARTS
NEWTOWN COLLAGE COLLECTIVE
Evening Workshops
Unleash Your creativity! Newtown Collage Collective is Newtown High School of the Performing Arts’ newest arts hub conveniently located in the heritage listed St George’s Gallery (below St Georges Hall on King Street and right next to Corelli’s Café).
We are offering creative workshops, with all profits going back to NHSPA. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, there is something for everyone, so please join us to support the school community and explore the fascinating world of collage. Our expert collage artist will guide you step by step, from selecting your papers to composing your own artworks; you will be surprised at how time flies in these all-inclusive workshops.
You will explore a range of techniques and styles and by the end of each workshop, you'll have crafted your own collage artwork that dances with colour, texture, and imagination.
The workshops can be a wonderful evening to have with friends or even some much needed creativity on your own.
All materials are supplied so all you have to do is head to the booking site to secure your place.
Website for further information and booking links:
Ski Trip Highlights
Ski Trip Highlights
On Friday 23 August at around 8am, a group of 51 intrepid Year 10 students and 5 selfless teachers, set off for the Snowy Mountains in southern NSW.
After a 5-year break (due to Covid and other circumstances), extensive planning and growing anticipation, the much-loved Alpine Excursion was finally a reality once again.
Day 1 was a travel and preparation day – lunch at Goulburn and a quick stretch of the legs in Cooma, before arriving at our home base for the next few days at the beautiful, mountainous setting of Bungarra Alpine Centre, about a 5-minute drive outside Jindabyne. Here, students and teachers were kitted out in their various equipment - skis and snowboards, ski poles, boots and helmets.
The remainder of the day was spent settling into the lodge, eating a very tasty dinner and briefing the students on what was to come the next day.
Day 2 began around 5.30 am (although even earlier for some of the more enthusiastic students) with everyone up and about, organising and packing for the first day on the slopes. Students demonstrated a wonderful attitude at this largely unfamiliar hour for many of them, an attitude that would remain consistent throughout the whole trip.
A magnificent sunrise, another tasty feed in our bellies and we were on our way to Perisher – well Smiggins actually, the beginner slopes just down the road. Despite a brief and untimely rain shower just as we were exiting the coach, everyone made the change into their ski boots and readied themselves for the snow. Students were in 2-hour ski/ snowboard lessons both morning and afternoon, with some free time in the middle of the day for them to work on the skills they had been learning. After a bit of a patchy morning, the rain cleared, and we were treated to a beautiful, sunny afternoon.
By the end of the first day, it seemed everyone was a little exhausted but full of smiles and tales of their different adventures around the slopes – a few tumbles, some T-bar and J-bar trials, some bumps and bruises but mostly lots of improvements. The coach ride back to our accommodation was full of excited chatter as the students (and teachers) recounted some of their favourite moments.
The evening was spent unloading damp boots and gear into the drying room, devouring another tasty dinner and relaxing around the lodge with music, games of pool and a bit of footy on the tv in the background. A 9.30 pm direction to their rooms, followed by 10 pm lights out also met very little resistance from the students as they knew another 5.30 am wake-up awaited them.
Having established the daily routine, day 3 was another picture of organised harmony as the students rose, ate, packed the bus, travelled to Perisher, unpacked, prepared for more lessons and hit the slopes once again. Another full day (8.30 am - 4.30 pm) of snow time but this time we were at Perisher proper, a bigger mountain and much more snow cover than the previous day. By now the students knew their instructors and greeted them warmly and enthusiastically, ready for further coaching and improvement.
The confidence was growing, the turns were more parallel and the stacks were fewer and further between (for most of the students at least!). Both roll calls ran smoothly at the end of their first lesson and before their second lesson, and in between students munched the somewhat expensive mountain fare and went out again to explore this bigger playing field they had been training on.
The afternoon brought a bit of unexpected excitement as a thunder and lightning storm rolled in and shut the lifts for an hour or so. Once the all-clear was given though, our students rushed to get back on the mountain despite the inclement weather that persisted. Rain and even hail could not halt the charge of the NHSPA skiers/snowboarders from shredding up the white fluffy stuff!
Exhausted from another full day of action, we spent Sunday evening again amongst the comfort and serenity of the mountain lodge.
All too quickly, the final day was upon us. Like clockwork, the students again did all that was asked of them to leave the lodge as tidy as possible and pack their bags ready for the afternoon’s departure.
Before that would occur though, there was more skiing and snowboarding to be done. A windier and colder morning awaited us up at Perisher, but the students just got stuck in with very little complaining. You could tell they were really loving the snow lifestyle by this point, and it was a shame they could not have another full day and night to indulge further.
Once again, the students were outstanding ambassadors for our school and approached the day with pure joy and enthusiasm. Some were now mastering their jumps and spins, while others were super-stoked just to be making it down the ‘big’ runs without falling – everyone improving with every run. The morning lesson done, a bit more free time on the slopes and it was time to head back to the reality of life in Sydney.
At this point, I would just like to say a huge, huge thank you to the wonderful staff that came on the trip and helped make it such a success. Rachael Holland, Hannah Hindmarsh, Tyrone Rigby and Remi Slade-Caffarel were the ultimate professionals when it came to managing the students in all that they had to do throughout the time away and it truly could not have happened without their fabulous support – even giving up their weekend in the process!
The Alpine Excursion is so much more than just a bit of fun in the snow. It really is a wonderful opportunity for the students to grow in so many ways:
Mixing with students they would not normally
Organising themselves under time pressure
Living in a cramped environment with a big group of others
Learning new skills in a largely foreign environment for many of them
The ability to literally fall down and get back up, time and time again
Facing harsh extremes of temperature, wind, rain, hail and snow
Facing their fears and anxieties and conquering them
Learning to read maps and find their way around a mountain in all conditions
Responsibility for themselves and others
It was wonderful to have the opportunity to take these students and teachers away for such an experience and I thank everyone for their hard work, good humour and fantastic attitudes throughout.
A slightly exhausted but very happy group,
Mr David Cole
Wellbeing
Wellbeing
BULLYING NO WAY WEEK
This year's theme is 'Everyone Belongs'
When we feel like we belong, bullying struggles to find a place. It's about embracing who we are, respecting everyone's differences and standing up together against unkindness.
Belonging means we all have a role in preventing bullying. We're encouraged to speak up and create a safe place where everyone feels supported and respected, and our voices are heard and valued.
Newtown High School of the Performing Arts rejects all forms of bullying behaviours, including online (or cyber) bullying, by maintaining a commitment to providing a safe, inclusive and respectful learning community that promotes student wellbeing.
Staff are committed to establishing evidence-based approaches and strategies that promote a positive climate where bullying is less likely to occur. All members of the school community are active participants in building a welcoming school culture that values diversity and fosters positive relationships.
A key component of a supportive school culture is building respectful relationships and an ethos that bullying in any form is not accepted. For our next whole school assembly, the S.E.E.D team will speak about the impact of bullying and strategies to support a positive sense of belonging at school.
NEW CANTEEN - Anthony Catering
Welcome to our new canteen operator
Anthony Catering
ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE
To place orders online, you will need to create a Flexischools account via the link:
Flexischools: Australia’s #1 School Canteen Online Ordering App Flexischools Guide (PDF 254.36 KB)
Canteen - Anthony Catering - Menu.pdfTo enlarge, click right top corner
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
For Voice, Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone, French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba, Euphonium, Percussion (Timpani, Auxillary, Drum Kit, Mallets), Piano.
Staff Book Recommendations
Staff Book Recommendations
This new segment asks NHSPA staff to share their recommendations for a good read. Each week will offer a mix of genres, non-fiction and fiction, and styles. All books bought from Better Read Than Dead in Newtown by a member of the NHSPA community (student, parent or teacher) will contribute to NHSPA credit with the bookstore.
FOR STUDENTS
FOR STUDENTS
Everyone knows the devil is real. Everyone knows that witches exist. Everyone knows that saying the wrong thing can get you hanged ...
When fourteen-year-old Maggie's grandmother is accused of witchcraft, Maggie has to run for her life. But Scotland is in the grip of terror and Maggie runs straight into danger, falling into the hands of the English.
Defying the king can be deadly, but falling in line is unthinkable. Maggie must learn to stand up for herself if she is to survive ...
FOR ADULTS
FOR ADULTS
Seventeen-year-old Aussie Che Taylor loves his younger sister, Rosa. But he's also certain that she's a psychopath--clinically, threateningly, dangerously. Recently Rosa has been making trouble, hurting things. Che is the only one who knows; he's the only one his sister trusts. Rosa is smart, talented, pretty, and very good at hiding what she is and the manipulation she's capable of.
Their parents, whose business takes the family from place to place, brush off the warning signs as Rosa's -acting out.- Now that they have moved again--from Bangkok to New York City--their new hometown provides far too many opportunities for Rosa to play her increasingly complex and disturbing games. Che's always been Rosa's rock, protecting her from the world. Now, the world might need protection from her.
After School Study Centre
After School Study Centre
After School Study Centre 2024 Final.pdfTo enlarge, click right top corner
St George's Hall Trust Fund Donation
St George's Hall Trust Fund Donation
We invite you to contribute towards our St George’s Hall Trust Fund.
St George’s Hall and The Studio Theatre are used by all students for year meetings, presentation assemblies, performances and various incursion workshops.
Through the St George’s Hall Trust Fund, the school is able to enhance the Performing and Visual Arts within the school by improving the physical spaces to create 'state of the art' venues, provide scholarships to students, technical equipment, musical instruments, and workshops with industry professionals.
The school is currently looking to install air-conditioning in St George’s Hall and replacing the seating in the Studio Theatre.
We suggest a donation of $200 per year per family. Any amount donated to the St George’s Hall Trust fund is tax deductible.
Donations can be made online through your School Bytes Parent Portal.
NHSPA Events Calendar Term 3 2024
NHSPA Events Calendar Term 3 2024
NHSPA CALENDER TERMS 3 2024 (1).pdfTo enlarge, click right top corner
Wellbeing
Wellbeing
FREE PARENT SESSIONS FOR SUPPORTING YOUR CHILD'S WELLBEING
The Kidman Centre UTS.pdfTo enlarge, click right top corner
Safer Internet
Safer 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
School Bytes - Parent Portal
School Bytes - Parent Portal
Introduction to School Bytes - Letter to New Parents.pdfTo enlarge, click right top corner
NHSPA Digital Devices (Mobile Phone) Policy
NHSPA Digital Devices (Mobile Phone) Policy
NHSPA Digital Devices Policy
Newtown High School of the Performing Arts (NHSPA) aims to develop skilled and creative learners who value the performing and creative arts as well as academic excellence. The school creates an environment where all students are encouraged to set high expectations and are supported to achieve their full potential.
RATIONALE AND PURPOSE
This procedure guides student use of digital devices at our school including requirements and expectations regarding the safe and appropriate use of mobile phones by students.
Our school acknowledges the educational value of digital devices in supporting and enhancing educational outcomes and student wellbeing. We also recognise they may cause harm if used inappropriately and that we need to support our students to use them in safe, responsible, and respectful ways.
OUR SCHOOL’S APPROACH
Digital devices, such as but not limited to, mobile phones, laptops, headphones, earphones/air pods, smart watches and other personal music or communication devices, should not negatively impact teaching and learning.
At school, all digital devices are turned off and out of sight between 8:55am – 3:10pm.
Please click the following link for NHSPA Digital Devices Policy:
Support Services
Support Services
SCHOOL STUDENT BROADBAND INITIATIVE
An important initiative from the federal government that could benefit families at
Newtown High School of The Performing Arts
The School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI) is offering free broadband access to help families struggling to stay connected for educational purposes.
There are still many plans available, and this could be a significant opportunity for many families.
For more details on how families can apply, please visit the official website:
WILKINS FAIR DAY - Sunday 8 September 2024
WPS FAIR.pdf.pdfWILKINS FAIR DAY - Sunday 8 September 2024
The Wilkins Fair Day is happening on Sunday 8th Sept. It’s a huge event on the local calendar, with over 5,000 people visiting the school for rides, games, performances and food.
The day will feature:
10 carnival rides including a giant slide, pirate ship, the teacups (plenty for big and small kids) & all covered by an unlimited rides wristband. Pre-purchase unlimited rides wristband at a special discount before 6/09/24 for collection on the day - bit.ly/WilkinsFairDay24_wristbands
Performances all day from Wilkins students and community groups
Jams, plants and gifts from the Wilkins Green Community Garden
the Cake stall will be pumping with fresh baked delights
the classic BBQ will be there, with traditional meat and vegan options. We have also invited a few food trucks to ensure no one goes hungry.
other free family activities and lots more
KEEP A LOOK OUT FOR ALL THE DETAILS: www.facebook.com/wilkinspandc
Coordinated by volunteer Wilkins P&C families, it is the school's largest fundraising event. All money raised will go to supporting school activities that will benefit all students.
Regards
Sarah Jones
Principal
Wilkins Public School
Fit For Life
Fit For Life
Excellence Creativity Equity
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