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LAND OF THE GADIGAL PEOPLE OF THE EORA NATION
BULLETIN 18 - Term 4 - Friday 6 December 2024
Message from Deputy Principal, Curriculum & Administration
Belinda Scanlan
Message from Deputy Principal, Curriculum & Administration
Belinda Scanlan
Hello everyone,
I'm sure you are all looking forward to a well-deserved break as we head into the holiday season. The students and staff here at Newtown have been working so hard and having a lot of fun and we are all so proud of their efforts.
Showcase
I have had the pleasure of attending Music, Drama and Dance Showcases over the last few weeks and the Visual Arts students also presented their Spring Show. The artistic talent showcased across all four areas was outstanding and I'd like to recognise not only the hard work of all the teaching staff involved, but their incredible industry expertise that allows our students these amazing extension opportunities. Thank you to all the Performing and Creative Arts faculties!
Wellbeing
Yesterday, Years 7, 8 and 9 gathered together across the day to watch Year 10 Drama students perform some bespoke Wellbeing Performances directed by Amy Hardingham of the Drama faculty. This important initiative aims to highlight difficulties students may face around healthy relationships, 'mean on purpose' behaviours and bullying by presenting age appropriate scenarios for the students.
Following the theatrical representations a panel of prefects, year advisors, deputy principals and wellbeing staff answered any questions the students had. The students I spoke with found this extremely realistic and mentioned that many of the scenarios were 'so real'. As a parent, you may like to take this opportunity to talk with your child at home about their school relationships.
Ask them what they learned during these workshops and discuss ways they can be an upstander and ask for help if they experience any difficulties in their social relationships. It is also a good time to reinforce kindness and respect towards others and talk to your child about the language they use when chatting with their friends in person and online. As we know, social life at high school can be challenging so any guidance we as a school and you as parents can give your children will help them navigate through successfully.
I hope you all enjoy a restful break over the holidays, and I look forward to seeing the students back next year relaxed and ready for learning.
Belinda Scanlan
Deputy Principal
St George's Hall - Air Conditioning
St George's Hall - Air Conditioning
Meetings and plans are underway for air conditioning to finally be installed in St George’s Hall.
Please see the link here for an extract from of the Architects’ Return Brief which includes interesting aspects of the heritage significance of our beautiful St George’s Hall.
News From Our Prefects
News From Our Prefects
Hey Newtown !
Over the past 2 weeks the NHSPA Prefect team has been working hard on a few initiatives to wrap up the end of a busy year!
Keep an eye out for the Addison Road food hamper drive that will be taking place in the final weeks of term, which aims to support those experiencing food insecurity and financial struggle during the holiday season. We ask anyone who is able, to consider bringing in donations for under the Christmas tree in the office: lollies, nuts, crackers, biscuits, body or face products, toys, books, etc.
Once again, the Friday bell is going to be selected by the year group with the most improved attendance, so keep coming to school and encourage your peers!
We also want to give a huge congratulations to any students performing in our end of year music, dance and drama showcases, and encourage everyone to support their friends and peers at these events.
As always, our suggestion box is open to any ideas that you would like the prefect body to consider.
We also have our instagram @nhspa_prefects which you can follow to keep engaged and updated with any new initiatives!
We hope everyone has a safe
and happy end
of the year!
The Beginning Story of NHSPA!
The Beginning Story of NHSPA!
Mr David Franks is a former staff member of Newtown High School:
"I was actually the first Head Teacher Mathematics appointed to the school in 1976. In 1985 I was deployed to research and write a report on establishing a performing arts high school at Newtown. That report was instrumental in the school being established."
David Franks with Year 10 Drama students rehearsing prior to their performance on Thursday.
The staff, students, parents, and wider community of NHSPA say a sincere THANK YOU, Mr David Franks!
2025 Co-Curricular Auditions Timetable
for Music, Dance, Drama, Film and Technical Company
2025 Co-Curricular Music, Dance, Drama, Film, Tech Company Auditions Timetable.pdfDANCE
UPDATED - AUDITION SCHEDULE 2025
2025 Co-Curricular Dance Program Auditions
We invite students to audition for the 2025 Co-Curricular Dance Program.
DANCE COMPANY AUDITIONS
Years 9, 10, and 11: Monday, December 9th, 3:30pm-5:30pm
Years 7 (2024) and 8: Wednesday, December 11th, 3:30pm-5:30pm
CLASSICAL BALLET AUDITIONS
Years 9, 10, and 11: Tuesday, February 11th, 3:30pm-5:30pm
Years 7 and 8: Friday, February 14th, 3:30pm-5:30pm
SCHOOLS SPECTACULAR 2024
SCHOOLS SPECTACULAR 2024
50 Years 8 and 9 NHSPA students loved watching and singing along to the fabulous Schools Spectacular performance during the Friday matinee show. It was a wonderful way to support the many talented students involved!
DANCE SHOWCASE 2024
DANCE SHOWCASE 2024
SYDNEY DANCE COMPANY SUMMER WORKSHOPS
YEAR 10 DRAMA EXTENSION WELLBEING PROGRAM
The Year 10 Drama Extension class this week presented the original theatre pieces they have been developing as part of their studies about Applied Drama and Theatre. Throughout the semester they consulted with NHSPA Wellbeing staff and students from Years 7, 8 and 9 about what wellbeing concerns they have, and then created plays which they performed to the year groups to explore topics at the heart of our students' social development.
These performances were the catalyst for discussion post performance with panels of staff from our Wellbeing teams and our year group Prefects who talked about the issues raised in the plays and what support students can access if they find themselves in similar situations.
A HUGE congratulations to the Year 10 Extension class and to Ms Hardingham for leading this valuable initiative which is now in its second year.
As always, thanks must also go to Ms Van Munster and the hard working VET students who assisted greatly in helping Year 10 realise this creative vision through their production expertise.
DRAMA SHOWCASE SEMESTER 2
Some moments from our Semester 2 Drama Showcase.
Thanks to all our Directors Mr Gonda, Ms Hardingham, Blake Kendall, Katie Ord, James Hartley, and Tahlia Merlino who have worked tirelessly over the semester with our Drama Companies to create thought provoking and engaging theatre as part of our Showcase season.
A huge thanks must go to Ben Turner, Ms Van Munster and the tech crew who always ensure that our performances are dazzling and professional.
DRAMA SHOWCASE SEMESTER 2 - Hospitality
Design & Media - FILM STUDIES
BLOODFEST FILM GALA EVENING - On The Red Carpet!
A Festival of student Horror films!
On Tuesday evening the Film and Drama staff along with Dr Green attended the Annual Bloodfest Student Horror Film Festival, where the film students from NHSPA's Design and Media Film Studies course had a staggering 7 out of the 10 film Finalists , and another as an Honourable Mention.
Year 10 student Josie Ritter won "Best Actor Award" and has won private acting sessions and a go-see with one of Sydney's top agents.
Year 10 students Etti Davis, Nika Desai and Zoe Richardson won "Best Directors Award" and have won a day on set for a current film in production.
Our talented film students were represented by:
My Girl - Isaac Brown & Dylan Wrenn (10)
Man-ia - Jordan Nguyen (10)
From The Heart - Indianna Thompson (10
My Reddit Friend - Hugh Price (10)
Spectral Specs - Gabe Cook & Jake Boissonneault (10)
The Painter - Kyla Vanderkley (10)
Purged - Etti Davis, Nika Desai, Zoe Richardson (10)
Inner West Young Creatives Awards - On The Red Carpet!
Last weekend the Inner West Young Creatives Awards were held in Marrickville, with a celebration of the best films from students 12 - 25yrs old being shown.
NHSPA was represented with the films:
Don't Look - Indianna Thompson (10) - Runner Up of High School Student Film
Obsession - Fran Nagle & Great O'Donoghue (10) - Winner of High School Student Film
A huge achievement for these students.
FILM COMPANY
Application Process
Application Process
The Film Production Company is open to students in Years 8 to 10. The Company will meet weekly in the Visual Arts Faculty.
Selection Criteria for the Film Production Company
Students must produce a short film (30 seconds) demonstrating their interest and skill in various aspects of film production.
An application form can be collected from the Visual Arts staffroom in week 2, 2025 and must be submitted with a film into the Drive folder by 3.10pm on Monday 24 February 2025.
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1JJ2BtI9JYHI3GueTiW6x_NhxrSeaxGXs?usp=sharing
MUSIC
Alumni Success
Alumni Success
NHSPA Alumni Sarah Lolohea and Adrienne Torres, AKA 'Wild Avenue', had their single 'Waiting' played on Nova 96.9 last week.
You can support their Triple J Unearthed submission here: https://www.abc.net.au/triplejunearthed/artist/wildavenue/ and stream 'Waiting' on your favourite music service.
Wishing this always outstanding duo much success!
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.
VOX POP
VOX POP
Lunchtime in the Library
Lunchtime in the Library
Why are you playing Bananagram?
Because it's fun!
NHSPA P&C - Save the Date !
NHSPA P&C is excited to announce a film night featuring Legally Blonde! SAVE THE DATE!!
Thursday 27 February 2025 @ sunset
More details to come - see our flyer attached!
Any enquiries to nhspapandc@gmail.com
Movie Night with Silent Auction (1).pdfWhat's Happening to the Performing Arts HSC
What's Happening to the Performing Arts HSC
NSW Curriculum reform is releasing new syllabus content for the creative and performing arts. The draft Year 11 and 12 creative arts Dance, Drama and Music (1, 2 and extension) mainstream and life skills syllabus’ were released at the end of October.
Currently these syllabus’ are in the syllabus consultation period. Community, students, teachers, stakeholders, networks and other persons are invited to give feedback on the proposed syllabus and assessment changes. This is known as the ‘Have your say’.
The ‘Have your say’ period for Creative Arts 11–12 draft syllabuses closes Friday 20 December 2024. You may provide feedback via this form:
https://nesa.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cOnMBPYytytC0MC
and/or personally email NESA expressing your concerns.
Email address for submissions outside of the form:
nswcurriculumreview@nesa.nsw.edu.au and nswcurriculumreform@nesa.nsw.edu.au
A detailed summary and comparison of current syllabus /assessment vs new proposed changes is found over the page.
VISUAL ARTS
New November and December dates for NHSPA's Newtown Collage Collective
A wonderful activity to do with friends or on your own, spend a couple of hours in a visually creative zone hosted by our experienced collage teacher. We'd love your support as all profits go directly back to the school.
See details below to book!
TAS
TAS
Year 12 Food Technology
In Year 12 Food Technology, our students have been dedicated to honing their skills and abilities in the art of baking by developing innovative and challenging recipes.
Throughout this process, they have invested considerable time and effort into perfecting their techniques, experimenting with various ingredients, and crafting unique baked goods that showcase their creativity and culinary expertise.
This journey has not only strengthened their practical skills but has also fostered a deep understanding of the baking industry.
Year 12 Textiles and Design
In Year 12 Textiles and Design, our students have embarked on an innovative project that challenges traditional notions of fashion by experimenting with garbage bags as a medium for design. This unique approach allows them to explore historical design developments while fostering creativity and resourcefulness.
By utilising unconventional materials, students are gaining practical skills in construction and manipulation, encouraging them to think critically and push the boundaries of traditional fashion.
This hands-on experience is providing them with valuable insights into the evolution of fashion, and we are excited to see the imaginative creations that emerge from their explorations!
Year 10 Food Technology
In Year 10 Food Technology, students have been enjoying the festive spirit by getting hands-on with delightful cooking projects, including the creation of exquisite Oreo truffles. These delicious treats are thoughtfully decorated in layers of rich dark chocolate and creamy milk chocolate, showcasing the students' culinary skills and creativity.
Year 9 Hospitality
Year 9 Hospitality students showcased their culinary talents and professionalism by catering for the recent drama showcase, impressing both guests and staff alike.
Their commitment to excellence was evident as they prepared and served a delicious array of dishes, creating a delightful dining experience that complemented the evenings' performances. From planning the menu to executing their service with precision and flair, the students demonstrated exceptional teamwork and attention to detail. This opportunity not only allowed them to apply their skills in a real-world setting but also highlighted their ability to thrive under pressure.
We are incredibly proud of their hard work and professionalism, which contributed significantly to the success of the showcase!
Year 8 Technology Mandatory
In Year 8 Technology Mandatory, students have been exploring the art of hand embroidery by creating beautifully crafted tote bags.
This project has allowed them to develop their sewing skills while expressing their creativity through intricate designs and personalised embellishments.
As they learned various embroidery techniques, students demonstrated patience and attention to detail, resulting in unique and functional pieces that reflect their individual styles.
SCIENCE
SCIENCE
LIFELAB - NSW Secretary of the Department of Education's visit to the Charles Perkins Centre
Year 8 LifeLab Program
Year 8 LifeLab Program
Two of our lucky Year 8 classes have once again been selected this year to participate in the LifeLab program run by the Sydney Institute for Women, Children and their Families. The program involves an 8 week educational health program run at school and an interactive excursion held at the Charles Perkins Centre at The University of Sydney.
Students were able to participate in a fun health circuit where they learned how to use a range of medical equipment to measure health. They interviewed a range of health professionals and they also used the University's high-tech labs to extract DNA from strawberries and take part in a DNA electrophoresis practical.
PDHPE & SPORT
NSW All Schools - Cricket
NSW All Schools - Cricket
2024/25 NSW All Schools Cricket // 15 Years & Under Selected Teams
After two scorching days of cricket at Central Coast Regional Sporting Complex, congratulations to Diksha Chowdhary (bottom row, 3rd from right - Year 9), 1 of 13 girls who were selected to represent NSW All Schools at the 2025 School Sport Australia 15 Years & Under Cricket Championships.
The Girls team will represent NSW All Schools in New South Wales (Venue TBC) from 22-26 September 2025.
Coming up in PDHPE and Sport:
Year 7 Swim School - Monday 9 and Tuesday 10 December
From the Archives (Rebecca Richmond, Rel. Librarian)
The Sky is the Limit for NHSPA class of 2024!
Archived: NHSPA Class of 2004 Graduation Program
NHSPA’s class of 2004 was many moons ago (240 to be exact) – and what a perfect time to reflect on the Class of 2004’s parting message as our class of 2024 begin the next chapter in their HSC free lives.
David Spink, NHSPA’s 2004 Acting Principal writes in the Graduation Program:
“Once again it is that time of the year when fond farewells must be made. For you…the curtain is finally coming down on your High School Performance…May you all realise your ambitions; that your expectations remain a driving force throughout your life."
2004’s School Captain Holly McBride reflects on their time at NHSPA and writes:
“Procrastination is the thief of time…and we must have been doing a lot of that lately because our time at Newtown has escaped us…We are encouraged to savour every moment, exploit every opportunity, and leave the group we have come to know so well: which we do with a heart full of memories, a mind full of knowledge and the inspiration to pursue whatever goals we seek to achieve…While procrastinating in writing this…I have realised that we are not travelling to meet an end, but rather, to experience the journey.”
As we reflect on the 20 years since this NHSPA graduating class, we farewell our current year 12s and wish them all the luck for their future endeavours.
The class of 2004 left asking, is the sky the limit? - And for our 2024 class, the answer is, yes!
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
AFTER SCHOOL STUDY CENTRE
AFTER SCHOOL STUDY CENTRE
After School Study Centre 2024 Responsibilities and Roster.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 4 2024
NHSPA Events Calendar Term 4 2024
NHSPA CALENDER TERMS 4 2024 (1).pdfTo enlarge, click right top corner
WELLBEING
WELLBEING
Wellbeing plays for Years 7, 8 and 9
Wellbeing plays for Years 7, 8 and 9
Year 10 Extension Drama worked hard this semester to consult with the Year Advisors, Deputies and Student Support Officers, and students from Years 7, 8 & 9 about important wellbeing issues affecting their year groups. As a result these discussions students developed an original short play for each of these year groups exploring friendships, bullying and positive relationships.
The Wellbeing Performances took place on Thursday of Week 8 (5th December). Each performance was followed by a Q&A session with Year Advisors, Deputies and Year Group Prefects where students were able to ask questions about these topics and find out how to get support.
Thank you to everyone who contributed their time and support with developing these plays and on the day with the Q&As, and to Ms Van Munster and the Year 11 Entertainment class for their skill and patience with the technical aspects of all three shows.
Fit for Change Program
Fit for Change Program
During Term 4, 10 students from Years 7 to 9 participated in the Fit for Change Program. This program, funded by PCYC, was led by Constable Emma O’Brien, our local Youth Engagement Officer.
Each session featured guest speakers covering topics such as Healthy Relationships, Social Media, Body Image, Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking and Vaping, Youth Caution, and Interview and Job Skills. The students also took part in physical activities including Boxing and Pilates and enjoyed some delicious food throughout the program.
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:
SUMMER CAMPS
SUMMER CAMPS
PCYC - Summer School Holiday Activities
PCYC - Summer School Holiday Activities
flyer Summer School PCYC.pdfTo enlarge, click right top corner
FIT FOR LIFE
FIT FOR LIFE
Excellence Creativity Equity
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