Volume One, Friday 14th February 2025

It is with great pleasure I once again welcome all members of the Oakhill College community to the 2025 academic year, especially our new students in Years 7 – 11 and their families.

In the opening assemblies in the first week of school, I took the opportunity to explain our theme for the year, faith filled:

 faith filled: is when we are living life as God inspires us to live it, putting the Gospel into action through our actions.
 faith filled: is being optimistic about the future, we trust ourselves and others, and we don't give up.
 faith filled: is living with hope and an expectation that the things I do make a difference in my life and in the lives of others.

I also shared with the students the famous Rice Moon speech of JFK (John F. Kennedy) given at Rice University, Houston Texas, in September 1962.

“We stand today on the edge of a new frontier … but the new frontier of which I speak is not a set of promises – it is a set of challenges”.

John F Kennedy believed that in an enlightened world, driven by science and technology, it was possible to increase one’s capacity in every way and that there was no limit to one’s potential. As we know, the USA landed on the moon in 1969 with less technology than in our modern-day smart-phone. JFK’s speech is about attitude, self-belief, and aspiration.

As we start a new year we too stand on the edge of a new frontier, be it starting at a new school as a student or a parent, or some other challenge.

Winston Churchill encourages

“When you feel you cannot continue for another minute, and that all that is in your human power has been done, that is the moment when one step forward will give you the fruits of the struggle you have borne”

Winston Churchill is referring to what we call today, GRIT.

GRIT isn’t about being perfect, it is about showing up when things get hard. When you think you have done all that you can, when it gets difficult, boring or inconvenient, keep going, put in that little bit more.

2024 was our best HSC year ever with 56% of all Grades a Band 5 or 6 and 88% of all Grades a Band, 4, 5, and 6. There were 10 All Rounders who had Band 6 in all subjects. In addition, 193 students achieved 386 Band 6’s. There were seven students who achieved a Top Place in State - 1st, 5th and 12th
in Math Advanced and 5th in Math Standard, 4th in Entertainment and 6th in Construction and 5th in Polish. Furthermore, there were 29 Nominations for HSC Showcase.

You may ask what made the cohort of 2024 such a successful cohort. My answer is GRIT. That is hard work, practice, practice, practice; a healthy competitive spirit whilst willing to share and help each other; and practice, practice, practice.

At Oakhill College, we are something more, we never say die, never give up, we pursue with the virtues of courage, velour, daring and mateship.

GRIT can also be explained by the three stoic disciplines of: (1) Perception - how we see and perceive the world around us; (2) Action - the decisions and actions we take in response to our perceptions; and (3) Discipline of Will - how we deal with the things we cannot change, attain clear and convincing judgement about those things, and come to a new understanding of our place in the world. Of these I believe perception is the paramount key. How we view and articulate our context determines our actions. Whilst maybe not perfect or how we would like things to be, if we view our context more positively and with gratitude, our actions will follow. This is what Marcus Aurelius and other stoics tried to engender through their leadership and something we see in a modern form through leaders such as Pope John XXIII, JFK and Master Shifu (Panda Bear).

Finally, I would like to encourage parents to join us in the upcoming events that are referenced in this Newsletter; the Parent Meeting with their Tutor Teacher Wednesday evening, 19th February for all parents of Year 7; Open Day Sunday 2nd March; and the Parent & Friends Association Welcome to Oakhill College, Saturday 22nd March. Research indicates improved student outcomes for those students whose parents stay connected to their school. I look forward to seeing you at the court, field or theatre, and various meetings.

Because a thing is difficult for you, do not therefore suppose it to be beyond mortal power. On the contrary, if anything is possible and proper for man to do, assume that it must fall within your own capacity. (Marcus Aurelius)

Br Steve Hogan fsc
Principal

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.
Aristotle

This phrase kept coming back to me as I listened to our outstanding Class of 2024 high achievers last week. May we form many good habits this year in study and life.

We pray for Ms Virginia Pieterse who passed away.  Virginia worked at Oakhill College for a significant number of years before retiring at the end of 2023. 

We also pray for Ms Tania Moriarty, Academic Head of Library at Oakhill College whose father passed away, and Mr Gavin Russell, Assistant Principal Curriculum who's aunty also sadly passed away.

Please keep their family and friends in your prayers.

Eternal rest grant to them, O’ Lord.
May the celestial lights shine forever upon them.
May the angels come to greet them
And may they both rest in peace.

Oakhill College officially commenced the 2025 school year with a beautiful Opening Mass, embracing our theme - faith filled. A special moment of the celebration was when a student from each year group and a staff member took the 2025 Oakhill College Pledge, committing to a year of faith, learning, and service.

We were also honoured to welcome Br Peter Bray, the new Br Visitor of the De La Salle Brother's for Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Papua New Guinea.

Ms Jaimee Bocasan
Coordinator of Prayer and Liturgy

We invite our College community to join us in the College Chapel to celebrate Mass every Friday at 8.00am. Please find below the Mass timetable for Term 1.  

Ms Jaimee Bocasan
Co-ordinator of Prayer and Liturgy

The Oakhill College Mission Team is planning Service Tours to India and the Philippines for Year 11 students in the September/October 2025 holidays.

Year 11 students are invited to be part of this volunteer program, living and working alongside other Lasallians serving the poor and marginalised. Interested families will need to attend a compulsory information evening on Monday 24th February [Week 4], 7.00pm in the Miguel Lecture Theatre.

We thank you for your consideration and look forward to sharing this exciting opportunity with you to bring our Lasallian values to life.

Mr Chris Goodman
Director of Mission

As part of the College Lentern program, Oakhill will be hosting the Colours for Caritas day on Friday 7th March. Students are encouraged to wear their favourite team jersey over their summer uniform and make a gold coin donation in Tutor Time.

Thank you for your support.

Ms Roxanne Leopardi
Coordinator of Lasallian Formation

Last Friday, 7th March the College had the pleasure of celebrating the Class of 2024 at the High Achievers Assembly, marking Oakhill’s best HSC results to date! Our students truly aimed for the stars, and their dedication and perseverance paid off.

Olivia Boumelhem, Oakhill Dux addressed the College and reflected "I learnt that it was okay to make mistakes. I can say at times, I was disappointed, I did waste time, I missed opportunities. But it is the way you pick yourself back up and persevere that counts." she also reflected that " Every person in this room will have a different perception of success. For some, it will be an ATAR goal, for others it could be being selected for a team or starting a business. Success is not defined by a 99.95 ATAR or being the best at everything. Success is about showing up even when you don't want to with a positive attitude and giving that extra 10%. And that is what the differentiates you from being just good to being great."

Curious about our high achievers next steps, top study tips, and reflections on the HSC journey? Read more here: https://bit.ly/2024hscspotlight

Mr Gavin Russell
Assistant Principal Curriculum

A reminder that the first instalment for 2025 fees (one third of your annual fees) is due on Saturday 15th February unless you pay in instalments via School Easy Pay Direct Debit. Fee statements were issued prior to the beginning of term.

Please contact the Accounts Receivable Office on 9899 2288 if there are any matters relating to your statement that you need to discuss.

Ms Lisa Camilleri​​​​
Accounts Receivable Officer

The Australian Government Department of Education would like to notify you that they have requested for your child’s school to provide residential address and other information.

Under the Australian Education Regulations 2023, Oakhill College is required to provide the department with the following information about each student at the College:

• Names and residential addresses of the student’s parent(s) and/or guardian(s)
• Student residential address (excluding student names)
• Whether the student is a primary or secondary student (education level)

What do you need to do?
You are not required to do anything. Oakhill College is responsible for providing the department with the requested details; however, you can contact Oakhill College to update your family’s details.

For further information please visit 2025 Address collection notice for parents

Ms Renee Chong
Administration Manager

The College Open Day will be held on Sunday 2nd March from 10.00am-2.00pm. Bookings for Br Steve Hogan's Principal's Address followed by a student led College Tour are now open. Please register here and pass on to other families who may be interested in attending: https://www.oakhill.nsw.edu.au...

Following Open Day, Oakhill's enrolment process commences for boys entering in Year 7, 2027 and girls for Year 11, 2026.

All applicants require their own Expression of Interest and Enrolment Application including siblings. Expression of Interest forms can be found here: https://oc-au-nsw-340.app.digi...

Mrs Gabby Russo
Head of Marketing & Communications

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a literacy and numeracy assessment that all Australian students are given the opportunity to participate in.

NAPLAN is designed to test whether Australian students are developing the critical literacy and numeracy skills necessary for future learning and development. It also allows parents/carers to see how their child is progressing against the national proficiency standards.

It is important to remember that NAPLAN is just one aspect of our assessment and reporting process at Oakhill College. It does not replace ongoing assessments to inform of student performance, however it provides teachers with additional information about a student’s educational progress.

What does NAPLAN test specifically?
Students complete four tests: reading, writing, conventions of language and numeracy. More information at NAPLAN 2025

How are the results reported to you?
Results are sent to families online and show the following measures in proficiency (at the time of testing):

• Exceeding: the student’s result exceeds expectations
• Strong: the student’s result meets challenging but reasonable expectations
• Developing: the student’s result indicates that they are working towards expectations
• Needs additional support: the student’s result indicates that they are not achieving the learning outcomes as expected. They are likely to need additional support to progress satisfactorily.

Which year levels at Oakhill College participate in NAPLAN?
Year 7 and 9 students

What equipment will students need to complete NAPLAN online?

• Their own laptop (in working order, fully charged- bring a charger if the laptop requires charging through the day)
• The Locked Down Browser installed on their laptop
• A pair of headphones
• A pen and scribble paper if required

Locked Down Browser (LDB) link to be installed

GENERAL INFO: LDB INFO
Windows Download: WINDOWS LDB
MAC Download: MAC LDB

When will NAPLAN occur at Oakhill College
Term 1: Practice Test 7th March and Testing Period 12th -17th March 2025
Practice Test – Year 9 Period 1 and Year 7 Period 2
Wednesday 12th March – Reading – Year 9 Period 1 and Year 7 Period 3
Thursday 13th March – Writing – Year 9 Period 1 and Year 7 Period 3
Friday 14th March – Language Conventions – Year 9 Period 1 and Year 7 Period 3
Monday 17th March – Numeracy – Year 9 Period 1 and Year 7 Period 3

Students will arrive at school as usual and attend Tutor Group.

What is expected of students to prepare for and sit NAPLAN tests

• Students are to bring the correct equipment AND have the Locked Down Browser installed prior to 7th March 
• Students are to know their marshalling areas and comply with all College examination rules and responsibilities
• Complete any NAPLAN practice tests provided by their teacher and practice questions in the demonstration site
• Students are always encouraged to do their best!

As a Year 7 or 9 parent, what do you need to do now?

• Check that your child has a working laptop and headphones, and that these are at school each day during testing
• If your child’s laptop requires repair or has restrictions with downloading files, help your child to sort these issues
• Look at the public demonstration site with your child to help prepare them: NAPLAN DEMO SITE

Communication and Further Information

• Presentation to students during cohort meetings Term1 - Weeks 4 and 5
• Check College emails with updates about NAPLAN arrangements.
• Check NAPLAN 2025
• Queries can be emailed to ematheson@oakhill.nsw.edu.au

Mrs Emily Matheson
Co-ordinator of Academic Administration

International Pi Day will be celebrated at the College on Friday 14th March. Krispy Kreme doughnuts will be on sale in the Year 7 Yard, Year 11 Yard and Rugby Canteen on the day. Cash only. 

All proceeds will go towards the PNG Breakfast Club.

Ms Deborah Stokes
Assistant Academic Head of Mathematics

In our Stage 5 French classes, students have been actively developing their grammar skills through interactive activities. Working in pairs and small groups, students practiced sentence structures, and new vocabulary. The friendly competition added an element of excitement, making learning both effective and enjoyable.

Our Year 9 students have been focusing on speaking skills, discussing their favourite television shows in target language. Through structured conversations and role-playing exercises, students shared their opinions on popular series, using key phrases to express likes and dislikes. This activity not only helped build confidence in speaking but also encouraged cultural discussions about French television.

These lessons demonstrate how engaging and interactive methods can enhance language learning, making grammar and conversation more dynamic and meaningful for our students.

Ms Darija Egic
Academic Head of Languages

In the recent school holidays several Oakhill students attended the National Youth Science Forum. It was a rewarding and insightful experience as reflected in Matthew Sabbouh’s recount below. 

Over the school holidays, I attended the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) at the Australian National University alongside 220 other students from across the country. This was an incredible experience that furthered my understanding of the STEM world, allowing me to explore various STEM fields in great detail and discover my interests. Over the course of nine days, I attended five STEM visits, ranging from cybersecurity to agricultural conservation. We also participated in live cross events, where, via a telecommunications link, we gained insights into projects happening worldwide. I chose to attend the CERN Hadron Collider live cross event, where we received a virtual tour of the LHC. This was an incredible experience, as it gave us access to areas not typically seen by the public and an insight into the work they are currently carrying out. Additionally, we attended career days, where we explored different career pathways from companies such as Lockheed Martin, Australian Defense Force, CSL and ResMed and from universities across Australia such as UNSW and Monash University, gaining valuable insights into the ever-changing STEM world.

Beyond the academic side, we engaged in a range of fun activities, including scavenger hunts, a disco night, stem Olympics and various cultural visits such as a trip to Questacon or the national sound and film archive. The highlight for me was visiting the ANU Solar Racing Team, where we toured the facilities used to build their solar racing car which while small compared to other facilities, was still interesting to see. As a motorsports and car enthusiast, it was fascinating to see a vehicle designed to race from the Northern Territory to South Australia against competitors from around the world only powered by solar. Another enjoyable part was simply spending time with new friends and connecting with like-minded students from across Australia. Students interested in STEM should definitely apply for NYSF as it will expand your perspective on the STEM world, and allow you to build valuable connections with people you may one day work alongside. Overall it is an amazing experience which I recommend to everyone pursuing an interest in the STEM landscape. 

Matthew Sabbouh (Year 12)

Oakhill College is a subscriber to the study skills website www.studyskillshandbook.com.au. This website helps students develop essential skills for academic success. There are units of work on improving time management skills, how to study, research skills, summarising, technology use, brain and memory and much more. Everything you need to know about becoming a more powerful learner and improving your marks at school can be found on this site. There are also lots of useful handouts, grids and planners at the bottom of the THINGS TO PRINT page. Each Newsletter will have a relevant article to assist in student's study.

To access the handbook, go to www.studyskillshandbook.com.au and login with Oakhill's details:
USERNAME: foroakhillonly
PASSWORD: 41results

Mastering the Art of Getting Things Done

Do you ever feel like your to-do list is running your life instead of the other way around? With schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and social commitments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Prioritising tasks is a skill that helps you take control of your time, reduce stress, and boost productivity. By focusing on what matters most, you’ll find yourself achieving more and worrying less.

1. Sort Your Tasks Using the Eisenhower Matrix

Not all tasks are equally important or urgent. The Eisenhower Matrix is a simple tool that helps you decide what to do first:

• Urgent and Important: Tasks that must be done immediately, like finishing an assignment due tomorrow.
• Important but Not Urgent: Tasks that contribute to long-term goals, like revising for a test in two weeks. Schedule these to avoid last-minute panic.
• Urgent but Not Important: Tasks like responding to non-essential messages. Minimise these distractions.
• Neither Urgent nor Important: Tasks like endlessly scrolling social media. Eliminate these when possible.

Tip: Write down your tasks in the matrix format to visually organise your priorities.

2. Break Tasks into Scheduled Steps

A large project or goal can feel overwhelming if you view it as one giant task. Break it down into smaller, manageable, actionable steps. For example:

• Instead of ‘Write history essay,’ create steps like ‘Research topic,’ ‘Draft thesis,’ and ‘Write introduction.’ Use bullet points or checklists to break down your goals. Check off each step as you complete it to stay motivated.
• Planning then when you’ll tackle each task helps you stay on track. Use a calendar or planner to allocate specific times for studying, homework, or revising. Stick to these slots as if they’re appointments. Completing smaller tasks provides a sense of accomplishment and builds momentum to tackle the bigger picture.

Tip: The Pomodoro Technique also works well for scheduling: Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this cycle to stay focused without burning out.

3. Focus on Your Top Three Daily Priorities

Each day, identify your three most important tasks and commit to completing them first. This ensures you make progress on what matters most, even if your day gets busy or interrupted.

• Write these three tasks on a sticky note and place it somewhere visible, like your desk or laptop.
• Review your top three priorities at the end of the day to reflect on what you accomplished and adjust your list for tomorrow, keeping momentum and focus.

Tip: Sometimes, the best way to stay on track is to say no to additional distractions. Politely decline commitments that interfere with your priorities and remember, it’s okay to protect your time.

Your To-Do List, Conquered

Task prioritisation isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things at the right time. By organising your tasks, breaking them into manageable steps, and focusing on your top priorities, you can take control of your workload and achieve your goals with less stress. With practice, prioritisation will become second nature, helping you succeed in school and beyond. Start prioritising today, and watch your productivity soar!

For further information Oakhill's login details are:
Username: foroakhillonly
Password: 41results

Mr Gavin Russell
Assistant Principal Curriculum

There are a number of digital mental health resources and online programs, tool, apps, phone lines and video services that deliver mental health support for adolescents. These resources are free or low cost and easy to access at a time that is convenient to you. Please review the flyer attached to view these resources. Digital Mental Health Resources for Adolescents Brochure

Ms Helen Morris
Head of Counselling/Registered Psychologist

The Macquarie University Psychology Clinic is running a 6-week group program to assist parents or carers with developing skills to help their children understand and manage their emotions through emotionally responsive parenting. For more information please visit: MUPC Parent Emotion Coaching Group Program Flyer

Ms Helen Morris
Head of Counselling/Registered Psychologist

There will be a power outage from 4.30pm on Monday 17th February, therefore the Library will close at this time for this day only.

Independent Sport Association (ISA) sport resumed on Saturday 8th February with Round 7 fixtures taking place. The First V Girls and Boys Basketball got things off to a great start with commanding wins. The First Boys Touch Football continued their undefeated run with a 9-0 win over Trinity College; if you get the chance to watch this team play, you will enjoy the high-quality skills of this team. The 2nd XI Cricket dominated St Stanislaus College, bowling them out for 39 and easily getting the runs. Unfortunately, the First XI match was abandoned after poor weather late in the day. Meanwhile, the domination continued on the Basketball court with Oakhill College winning all A’s fixtures against St Pius X College. There were a few Oakhill College derby’s in both Basketball and junior Cricket. Despite the competitiveness of the matches, the players should be commended for the fantastic spirit for which they played each game. Late in the day, the Open Gold captured a 16-13 win over St Augustine’s College proving that hard work and perseverance pays off. Special mention also to the 15 Maroon Basketball team who defeated St Stanislaus College A’s in Bathurst by 14-points.

ISA Selection

Congratulations to First XI cricketers Ashane Jayapragash, Lucas Medord and Harrison Valenzisi who were selected in the ISA Cricket team following the trial in Bathurst on Saturday 1st February. The ISA recorded a 42-run victory over GPS on Sunday 9th Feb and will next play CAS.

Pink Stumps Day

This week Oakhill will participate in Pink Stumps Day. The aim of Pink Stumps Day is to raise money to go towards the McGrath Foundation and fund a Breast Care nurse. It costs $380,000 to fund a nurse over a 3-year period. The role of a breast care nurse is to assist people going through treatment by providing care when needed and in the comfort of their home. They aim to improve the quality of care and provide important information, support and referral for a wide range of needs experienced during this time.

Our aim is to raise a minimum of $3,000 this year.

CLICK HERE to make a donation.

Oakhill College sport will be awash with Pink this weekend, with the Girls Basketball beginning on Friday night in the CSC. Basketball and Touch  Football fixtures start at 8.00am, while the First XI Cricket will start at 10.00am on Damien Oval. To view the full sport schedule please click here: https://docs.google.com/.../2PACX.../pubhtml 

We hope to see you there.

Football Achievements

Oakhill was well represented in the Australia Schools Football tour to the UK in January with Mr Julian Rodrigues (Class 2024) and Hamza Bangash (Year 12) featuring. The tour was a successful one for Australia, remaining undefeated and posting some commanding results. 

Well done to Julian and Hamza for their achievement.

Swimming

The Oakhill Championship Swimming Carnival took place in the College Pool on Monday 10th February. Always a well attended event, students pushed themselves to the limit in order to post a time which would make them eligible for the preliminary Oakhill Swim Team. All students are commended for their efforts. 

On Wednesday 12th February, 31 students travelled to Barker to compete in the Barker Invitational Carnival. The team performed well, winning the Boys Shield and coming 2nd in the Girls Division.

Golf - Webex TPS Series

Students at Oakhill College have been invited by Castle Hill Country Club to attend the 2025 Webex TPS Series. The event will be held on Thursday 20th and Friday 21st February. Students can travel down and attend the event after the school day. Year 11 student, Owen Brightman, will also be featuring in the event. Tickets are complimentary.

Sports Captains - Team of the Week

Girls 2nd V Basketball

Following a challenging start to the season, the 2nd V Basketball captured a spirited win over Central Coast in Round 7 of the ISA. Jumping to a 7-nil lead, the girls tightened their defence, limiting their opponents scoring opportunities. A pep-talk at half time by coach Mr Middlemass, and the girls continued their dominance in the second half, prevailing 21-19 in a nail-biting finish.

Well done, girls!

Winter Sport Registration

Winter sports registration is now open on the TASS parent portal. Parents wishing to sign their son/daughter up for Rugby, Football, Tennis or Netball should access the link. Registrations will close on Monday 24th February. Following this, parents can expect to receive communication around training, trial dates and the ISA Winter Sport season.

Mr Murray Fisher
Head of Sport

Over time Oakhill students have made a remarkable impact through the Kids Giving Back program.

Congratulations to Year 9 students Rashan Rajakaruna, Jacob Kari, Moses Estera and Kyan Flynn who recently participated in the Helping Hands for the Homeless program run by Kids Giving Back. The boys cooked all day before distributing food and essential items to people experiencing homelessness. 

In January Finn Sebire, Liam Havron and Ruben Langley (both Year 11) and Oliver Havron and Edward Kim (both Year 7) travelled to Busselton to compete in the 2025 Australian Open Water Championships. Finn, Liam and Ruben are now competing at the National Championships in Brisbane in April.

Congratulations to Finn Sebire (Year 10) who came second in the state at the NSW Open Water Championships in December. Finn won Bronze medals in both his 5km and 7.5km events.

Want to save money while making a difference? With an Entertainment Membership, you will unlock amazing rewards with proceeds going towards Oakhill's fundraising.

To purchase an Entertainment Membership please click here - https://subscribe.entertainment.com.au/fundraiser/21434p0

Please find below the upcoming Uniform Shop roster. 

Ms Suzanne Haskins
Uniform Shop Manager

H2H Physiotherapy works closely with several Oakhill sports teams. H2H have offered Oakhill students a discounted rate for their services. Please see below for further information.