This morning, 9th September, we all received the sad news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Queen Elizabeth dedicated her life to service and as such is a role model for us, as Lasallians, who are also service oriented, focused on transforming lives and contributing to a better world for all. Queen Elizabeth in her 2016 Christmas message shared that it was Jesus’ message of love that inspired her daily. The Queen saw the value of doing small things with great love and that love begins small but always grows.
“It’s worth remembering that it is often the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring about the most lasting change”. When people face a challenge, they sometimes talk about taking a deep breath to find courage or strength. In fact, the word ‘inspire’ literally means ‘to breathe in’. But even with the inspiration of others, it’s understandable that we sometimes think the world’s problems are so big that we can do little to help. On our own, we cannot end wars or wipe out injustice, but the cumulative impact of thousands of small acts of goodness can be bigger than we imagine.” (Queen Elizabeth's, Christmas Address 2019).
A Message to our Year 11 and Year 12 Students: For our Year 11 and Year 12 students the next two weeks mark a significant transition in life – a rite of passage. Year 11 complete their Year 11 preliminary course and Year 12 complete their Year 12 studies.
I encourage each and every Year 11 and Year 12 student to work hard at their studies for the upcoming exams as no one can take from you the empowerment of integrity knowing you did your best. There is no shortcut to hard work and the many hours of study now required. With intensity and focus a Band 3 can become a Band 5 and a Band 5 a Band 6 – anything and everything is possible. Look after one another, put social life aside, and allow your friends the space and peace from interruption. Some might say why, I am not going to university, or do not need an ATAR or already have a university offer. My answer is if you can, then you ought; you must. Our talents are God given, and we hold them in trust, and have the responsibility to develop them for our benefit and the service of others – contributing to a better world. "God has given us talents and we are to hone them and let them shine". (Matthew 5:14). "It is not easy, it will be hard (and maybe boring), but it will make us." (JFK, Rise Moon Speech, 1962).
"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)
Setting high goals for limitation is self-imposed. In trying you will learn what you are capable of (remember what Master Shifu said to Panda Bear in Kung Fu Panda 3). Work hard for when success comes feel accomplished knowing that it was hard earnt.
Winston Churchill said: “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
You are all wonderful, and capable beyond measure.
To our Parents and Families: I encourage you in your role to guide, support and encourage the routines and disciplines needed by our Year 11 and Year 12 students (sons and daughters) as they prepare for their exams and hone their talents and skills to achieve their best. The College and teachers are also available as a source of help and guidance.
We are blessed to have wonderful students and wonderful families at Oakhill College, and I wish you all God’s blessings.
Oakhill's Mission Action Day was back this week bigger and better than ever. Staff and students donned their favourite superhero costumes, embraced their sense of fun and made our day a huge success.
The day began with the whole College coming together for some poignant reflections on the purpose of MAD - to raise money for the Breakfast Club in Papua New Guinea, led by La Salle and Mission@Oakhill staff, with some music and practice time for the teacher vs student dance-off. Students and staff then headed outside to immerse themselves in the day - rides, disco, nerf fun, food trucks, sports, dunk a Dean, pool obstacle course, bands and more. Early in the afternoon our teacher vs student football game was well attended, followed by our Guest Speaker - Br Garry Coyte fsc, and then the long awaited teacher vs student dance-off, in which the crowd's cheering decided that the winner was the students! We also awarded our best dressed awards to students and staff.
MAD has helped us raise $50,000 so far, however, with raffle tickets still on sale you can purchase tickets here: https://www.trybooking.com/eve... until Tuesday 20th September. The raffle will be drawn at the Year 12 Graduation on Thursday 22nd September. The money raised will greatly assist the Breakfast Club in Papua New Guinea in building a new kitchen and help many students have a meal each day. To learn more about the work the Breakfast Club does you can view our video made by one of the volunteers, Cameron Streeter (Class of 2017).
Mrs Gabby Russo Head of Marketing & Communications
In support of Jersey Day, Oakhill was awash with jerseys on Friday 2nd September, as we spread the word and continued the discussion about organ and tissue donation. We always remember Nathan Gremmo (Class of 2019) and his family, who chose to give the gift of life to others to honour Nathan’s generous personality. This amazing gift saved the lives of six people and started the Jersey Day awareness campaign.
We were pleased to welcome back our traditional Year 8 father/son touch football competition for Jersey Day too.
On Friday 2nd September, we held our Father's Day liturgy at the College. It has been quite some time since we had this event due to the pandemic. It is heartening to see so many of our community wanting to be involved in these events, and even though we have outgrown our beautiful Chapel, we came together as Lasallian Brothers and Sisters in the CSC to pay tribute to our hero father figures. Our Mutien Dean, Mr Brion Martyn, was our guest speaker at the liturgy, and did an amazing job. Our hospitality Department catered with some very tempting treats, and our Music department delivered moving renditions to set the tone. It is moments like these that make me grateful for the beautiful community that we have.
A Blessing to our Fathers:
God our Father, We give you thanks and praise for fathers young and old. We pray for young fathers, newly embracing their vocation; may they find courage and perseverance to balance work, family and faith in joy and sacrifice. We pray for our own fathers around the world whose children are lost or suffering; may they know that the god of compassion walks with them in their sorrow. We pray for men who are not fathers but still mentor and guide us with fatherly love and advice. We remember fathers, grandfathers, and great grandfathers who are no longer with us but who live forever in our memory and nourish us with their love.
Many Blessings
Mrs Laurainne Marshall Co Ordinator of Prayer and Liturgy
College News
Summer Uniform for the Start of Term 4
From Week 1, Term 4, all students are required to return to school in full College summer uniform. If you need to order any uniform items, please do so via Flexischools and students can pick them up before the end of term, or visit the Uniform Shop during opening hours during term time:
Monday: 8.00am to 11.30am Thursday: 1.30pm to 5.00pm The first Saturday of every month (term time): 9.00am to 12 noon.
The College Uniform Shop is located on the ground floor of the De La Salle Building.
Flexischools parent support number: 1300 361 769.This support number is available Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 12 noon. Alternatively, parents can send an email to help@flexischools.com.au
A reminder that the third and final instalment for 2022 fees (one third of your annual fees) were due on Thursday 15th August unless you pay in instalments via School Easy Pay. Fee statements were issued prior to the beginning of term.
Could you please organise payment if not already made or 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 Debtors Clerk
FDC Scholarship Opportunity for Class of 2022
On Monday 29th August, a willing contingent of prospective students visited the FDC Site Office at Oakhill and heard further information about the FDC Scholarship opportunity from Construction Manager, Mr Damon Malek. Damon outlined current and past projects that FDC have completed, talked about the values, culture and opportunities at the company and also outlined the process and many benefits of the scholarship, as well as cadetship and apprenticeship openings that are also available.
Applications are now open for Year 12 students and close on Friday 16th September.
Further information and dates are in the brochure below, and you can watch two Oakhill College alumni Brittany Wells and Bailey Stewart (both Class of 2017), who are happy and successful FDC Scholarship recipients.
Mrs Gabby Russo Head of Marketing & Communications
Education Publishing Award for Ms Bruseker's Book
Ms Kendra Bruseker, Academic Head of Geography, Legal Studies and Society & Culture published a book last year which in itself is an outstanding achievement. This week her book won the Educational Publishing Award in the Student Resource – Senior – English/Humanities/Languages/Arts/Technologies/Health and Physical Education category.
The Judge’s comment sums it up: Cambridge Society and Culture Stage 6 was crafted by an experienced team of practising society and culture teachers to help students understand and contribute to the world around them. Directly aligned to the syllabus, this resource provides students with everything they need to thrive in their internal assessments and end-of-year exams. Visually diverse and engaging, this resource provides opportunities for students of all abilities.
Congratulations Kendra.
Mrs Gabby Russo Head of Marketing & Communications
Lost Property
If your child has lost any school shoes or sneakers, please check Lost Property in Student Services. Any shoes that are not collected by the end of term will be donated.
Please ensure that you label all of your child’s clothing. This enables “lost” property to be reunited with its owner.
Mrs Carmel Christie Administration Manager
Curriculum News
Top 10 Tips for Parents to Manage and Communicate Expectations about Schoolwork and Results
If parental expectations are too low, students may not strive to achieve their personal best. If parental expectations are too high, this can contribute to high levels of student stress. So how can parents find the right balance? Some areas to consider are:
Understand your own motivations: Why do you want your child to achieve particular marks in their studies? Is it because you have pressure from family/friends/society about what your child will achieve? Do you want them to follow in your career footsteps? Do you want them to have opportunities you never had as a child or young person? Understanding your own motivations will help you find balance in your expectations of your children.
Help your children to set realistic goals: Keep talking to your children about what they want to achieve, in individual subjects, at school overall and in other aspects of their life. Their career goals may mean they want to focus intensively on something like art or music, rather than maths or science. Helping them to identify their goals will enable them to determine what subjects they need to focus on and what marks they are likely to need, which means that effort can be concentrated on the areas which will help them to achieve their goals.
Be involved in your children’s learning: Throughout the term talk to your children about what they are studying. Ask them to show you their bookwork and homework. The more you understand what they are doing and how they are going along the way, the better you will be able to set and manage your expectations.
Make sure you really communicate what you expect: Many students feel like they are not meeting their parents’ expectations. Often this is a result of poor communication about expectations by both parties. Reflect on your motivations (see point 1. above) and think about how you communicate your expectations to your children. Remember to praise them for the effort they make rather than the results they achieve, this way they are motivated to keep on trying, even when learning is difficult.
Develop an understanding of Oakhill’s assessment and reporting structures: Assessment and reporting systems change over time and are different in different schools, states and countries. Making sure you really understand what your children’s reports mean may help you to understand what they are actually achieving. Sometimes students are excelling in certain skills or areas, but reporting structures may not highlight these.
Remember nobody is perfect: Even the brightest, most highly motivated child will struggle at times. They may struggle to understand a particular topic or concept, or they may struggle with motivation, particularly for a subject they don’t particularly enjoy. Problems with teachers or peers can also contribute. It is unrealistic that anyone can work with 100% effort all the time.
Provide practical homework and exam support: Provide practical help to your children with things like proofreading and reviewing drafts, checking work and listening to speeches. Remember though, it is not your work, so don’t make changes, rather make suggestions and provide guidance.
Spend time together doing something fun: Make sure your relationship with your child is about more than homework and study. Allocate some time to do fun things together. This is when your child is most likely to open up to you about the things they are struggling with and you can work out how best to help them. Ideas include going for a walk or run together, having a dinner date (even to Maccas) or having them show you the latest funny videos they like.
Support your child to do their best: You can do this by providing healthy, nutrient-rich food; opportunities for exercise, rest and relaxation and an environment which is supportive of and conducive to study.
Keep alert for the physical and mental signs of stress: Familiarise yourself with how your child responds to stress. Do they withdraw? Act out? Work harder or stop working? When you notice that your child is stressed provide them opportunities to discuss what is worrying them and work with them to identify how you can help them. You may wish to involve the College Counsellors, a teacher or tutor at this point.
All parents/ guardians should have now received their son’s NAPLAN report. The individual report describes your child’s skills in reading, writing, spelling, punctuation/ grammar and numeracy. The online tests are now tailored to the level of each student, which enhances our understanding of how students are progressing. If for example, your son was answering questions confidently, the test would have provided more challenging questions. This information will support teachers in differentiating learning and help us identify the strengths and areas for growth in our learning programs.
NAPLAN results should be treated, however, as one snapshot of student achievement in a photo album that consists of regular, ongoing assessment. This is important to note because the test provides a picture only of how the child performed on one day and numerous factors can influence student performance.
How did the College perform overall?
Oakhill students have demonstrated very strong growth, particularly in writing. Year 7 and 9 students outperformed the state and similar schools in Numeracy and Writing. In 2018, 16% of students were in the top two bands in writing and this has almost doubled, with 30% in the top two bands. Oakhill has halved the number of students achieving in the bottom two bands in writing.
In reading, Oakhill had 31.6% of Year 9 students in the top two bands, compared with 25% across the state and the gap was more pronounced in Year 7, with 41% in the top two bands, compared with 31% across the state. 62% of our Year 7 students achieved in the top two bands in Numeracy, as opposed to 37% across the state.
Overall at Oakhill, 53% of candidates were in the top two bands in Numeracy, which is a very pleasing statistic.
What will we do next?
Faculties and teachers will be breaking down the results and looking closely at those areas specifically that need targeted intervention. Individual teachers will explore the results in our Professional Learning Teams and will share evidence-based strategies that work to improve literacy and numeracy.
What can parents do?
Please read the report carefully, noting your child’s specific areas of strength and weakness. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s progress, you should make an appointment to talk to your son’s English or Maths teacher. Keep encouraging your child to switch off their devices before bed and encourage them to read some fiction or non-fiction. We know that the more parents model what it means to be an enthusiastic reader, the more likely it is that children will read for pleasure.
The Visual Arts exhibition held on Tuesday 30th August showcased an impressive collection of artistic talent from the Year 12 cohort. It was a pleasing evening and so heartening to see such a wonderful attendance from students and their families. We celebrated the achievements of our senior students who have worked tirelessly over the past year to plan and create their HSC Body of Work. The diversity of the works displayed, and the fascinating ideas expressed were skilfully crafted, sophisticated, and innovative. Students used a range of techniques and materials with confidence and a high degree of technical accomplishment in the process of making their artworks.
Audience members were able to vote for their favourite artwork in the People’s Choice awards. There were many close contenders but in the end the public has decided that the People’s Choice winner for 2022 goes to Gabriela Chu Barbosa for her artwork, a series of paintings titled Memento Vivre. Congratulations on this recognition and award. Close behind in voting was Lauren Malaysiak with her digitally manipulated artwork WONDERLAND and Marcus Henderson for his photographic series Psyched.
I would like to wish all our students all the best in the upcoming Higher School Certificate Examinations.
Oakhill's HSC Showcase has finally come back after two years of COVID. Our students were very excited to display the works they have created over the past 12 months. The Year 12 students spent many periods prior to the night preparing their displays.
As the clock ticked over to the official opening, all the displays looked amazing and parents enjoyed the varied projects as they wandered around the hall. All attendants appreciated the catering provided as they inspected the works ranging from hallstands to dartboards in the timber section and first aid kits to pet enclosures. Our students are extremely creative and skilled and should be proud of what they have achieved through hours of work.
A big thank you to all the TAS staff who put in numerous extra hours to help the students achieve their personal bests. School holiday workshops, free periods and extra time in the afternoons all added up to some amazing pieces of work. Without their help, I am sure the student's works would have looked very different.
Next year, we will put on an even better show in the new Innovation Hub.
Mr Scott McLeod Academic Head of TAS
The Crucible
Hysteria hits Salem! The town is going wild over the accusation of women who are falsely accused of witchcraft. Betrayal, lust and envy put a marriage to the test. Truth is overpowered with lies and pride ultimately leads to tragedy. Senior Drama proudly presents Arthur Miller’s ‘The Crucible’.
Four magnificent performances commencing at 7.00pm on Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd, Monday 24th and Tuesday 25th October in the Adrian Theatre.
Congratulations to the following Year 12 students who have received a nomination for OnStage. A showcase of HSC excellence and achievement.
Oliver Miskovich - Individual Performance 'Good Evening' Aidan Grace - Individual Performance 'A Killer's Monologue'
Hayley Bryant - Group Performance 'Sarah: Wife of Abraham' Aidan Grace - Group Performance 'Sarah: Wife of Abraham' Christian Sequeira - Group Performance 'Sarah: Wife of Abraham' Jack Talty - Group Performance 'Sarah: Wife of Abraham'
Year 12 Modern History are deeply engaged in recreating the D-Day campaign as part of their learning. They were tasked to recreate the main elements of the landing and demonstrated an understanding of the strategies and tactics used by both sides.
On Thursday 8th September, we marked R U OK Day. R U OK Day reminds us to ask “Are you OK?” and start a meaningful conversation whenever we spot signs that someone might be struggling.
We reminded students of the many people and places they can go to for support including the Oakhill College Counselling team, a trusted adult, their family doctor and organisations such as Kids Helpline, Headspace and Reach Out.
We also wanted to take the opportunity on R U OK Day to reach out to our community and provide information about further support options that may be of interest to parents and carers:
Parent Line is a free telephone counselling and support service for parents and carers with children aged 0 to 18 who live in NSW. You can reach Parent Line by calling 1300 1300 52 or at www.parentline.org.au
ReachOut Parents provides factsheets, stories, practical tips and tools covering a range of topics, issues and experiences that are relevant to teenagers aged 12–18. There’s also an online community forum where parents can talk to other parents about their experiences and work through concerns in a safe, anonymous environment. Connect with ReachOut Parents at www.parents.au.reachout.com
Beyond Blue provides information and support for anxiety, depression and suicide prevention for everyone in Australia. You can reach Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or at www.beyondblue.org.au For more information about R U OK Day and for tips about how to have an R U OK conversation, please visit the R U OK website at https://www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask
Ms Helen Morris and Ms Chloe Princic College Counsellor and College Social Worker
SRC Initiative - Ward Angels
Oakhill's Student Representative Council meets weekly, works together in meaningful ways and instigates several initiatives across the College. One such initiative was to raise money for Ward Angels, a non-profit organisation that relies solely on volunteers, supporting kids in hospitals and their families.
Our SRC asked for donations through Tutor Groups and raised over $1,900, which was proudly presented to Josie from Ward Angels on Friday. Ward Angels will now use this generous donation to purchase gifts for sick kids in hospital to give to their dads for Father's Day.
Mrs Gabby Russo Head of Marketing & Communications
Concession Cards
If you have turned 16, and have not yet done so through Student Services, you are invited to apply for a concession card. This card allows you to travel on public transport at student rates and also to secure tickets to various events at a reduced rate.
To request a concession card, please complete the form below which requires your name, date of birth and the school year for 2022.
Once issued, concession cards will be valid until March 2023. Students in Year 12, particularly those intending to go on to further study in 2023, are encouraged to apply now if you haven't already obtained a card.
If you already hold a concession card, now is a good time to check that it hasn't expired. If it has, you can also use this form to apply for a new card.
Without a concession card, you may be expected to pay adult fares and rates now that you are 16 or over. You may be subject to fines on public transport if you cannot show a valid card. This concession card will be the only proof of student status which some venues and providers will accept.
If you have any questions about this, please contact Student Services at the College.
Mrs Donna Findlay Head of Senior School
Year 11 News
Year 11 Social
The Year 11 Social will be held on Friday 28th October. A reminder that tickets are now on sale for this event and need to be purchased by Monday 11th September.
Friday 9th September was Beanie for Brain Cancer Day. Another Student Representative Council (SRC) initiative where we wore our beanies to raise awareness of this important cause.
The Show Team had a fantastic weekend at the Penrith Show in late August. There was a flurry of activity with cattle and sheep judging followed by Parader Competitions. Our Angus steers Pentire Dobby and Pentire Pete were awarded 1st and 2nd place in the steer judging, and our students achieved the following results:
1st Place Junior Parader - Oliver Lacey 3rd Place Junior Parader - Harrison Piper 4th Place Senior Parader - Jack Kenchington
On the Sunday, students were involved in the Poultry Judging with Harry Mayhew and Jack Kenchington achieving Reserve Champion for the Team Poultry Judging event. One of our Araucana hens was also awarded 2nd Place in the Softfeather category. All in all, a very successful show and a wonderful end to the show season. The Show Team will commence preparations for next year's Royal Easter Show with two new steers arriving on the weekend.
Mrs Stellina Trestrail Co-ordinator of Agriculture
Oakhill's Got Talent
This year, the Year 9 SRC representatives and the Year 9 Leaders combined to run the first ‘Oakhill’s Got Talent’ for the Junior School (Years 7, 8, 9). This newly introduced talent show included three heats over three lunchtimes, with 16 entrants. Participants needed a ‘yes’ from each of the four amazing judges on the panel to progress to the Grand Final. The 10 acts that made it through to the Grand Final did their absolute best, and the audience loved it!
Finlay Macdermid, from Year 8, took out First place after dazzling the judges on the piano accordion. Second place went to Oscar Honeysett and Charis Michael, also from Year 8, for their super unexpected card trick, with Br Steve Hogan predicting a week earlier the card that was chosen from the pack. We don’t know how they did that?! Finally, third place was awarded to S.T.A.A.R from Year 7, with their sing-along band cover of Elton John’s ‘I’m Still Standing’. Entry to watch the Grand Final was a gold coin donation and, from this, we raised $185. We will put this towards supporting the Breakfast Club in PNG.
None of this would have been possible without the hard work of the Year 9 Leaders and SRC members who did a great job in pulling it all together. We can’t forget Ms Robertson, Mr Domars and Mr Berriman for all their hard work and dedication behind the scenes. And to our judges - Ms Hemmings, Mrs Marshall, Mr Fisher and our College Captain, Pat Spence (Year 12) - you maybe had the toughest job but, you were nearly as entertaining as the acts on stage and did an awesome job and we thank you!
We are hoping Oakhill’s Got Talent will become an annual event for the Junior School for years to come!
William Hurst (Year 9 SRC) and Christian Attard (Year 9 Leader)
Sports Update
Sport - Around the Grounds
Winter Sports presentations were held over the last week, and all players are to be congratulated on a fantastic season. Some of the major awards from the presentation evenings are listed below:
Rugby
1st XV Undefeated Premiers
Champion ISA Rugby School
Br Ambrose Shield recipients (outstanding contribution to 1st XV Rugby).
Boys Football
Team of the Year - 2nd XI
Convenors Award - Christian Milicevic
1st XI awards - Best Defender - Isaac Comito. Coaches Award - Domenic Nesci. MVP - Caleb Kirkegard. Best & Fairest - Lucjan Koryzma. Most improved - Tate Mahony. Player's Player - Rocco Pelle.
Girls Sport
Outstanding contribution to Girls Sport - Lauren Peacock
1st XI Football awards - MVP - Cerys Maddox. Coaches Award - Jemma Bateup. Most Improved - Bianca Mobilia. Players player - Chanelle Odendaal.
Hockey awards - MVP - Grace Walker-Rolls. Year 11 Coaches Award - Alyssa Frasca. Year 12 Coaches Award - Emilia Zammit. Most Improved - Cassandra Solomon.
Tennis
1st Tennis Premiers
Champion ISA Tennis School
Oakhill College Tennis major awards - Most Outstanding Player – Steve Mitchell.
Player of the year ISA Tennis – David Mitchell. Mrs Parker Encouragement award – Alex Keane. Tennis Convenors Award - Spencer Collimore.
Summer Sport
Grading and trials have taken place over the last two weeks, and we have entered a healthy number of teams into ISA Summer Competitions for this season. Training will start for all teams in Week 1 of Term 4 with more information coming via email to all registered families. Keep an eye out for an email from the Convenor of your sport.
Late Registration (Basketball and Touch Football) - for those that have been to trials and not yet registered, please register via Trybooking "Late Registration". This weekend is the final chance to register: https://www.trybooking.com/CCJMY
Girls Rugby 7's Registration NOW OPEN (closes Tuesday 13th September - dont miss out)
Term 4 Rugby 7's - Monday nights
The Monday night Rugby 7's competition is not an ISA sport so girls can play a Saturday Sport plus Rugby 7's. Games are played at Barker College starting early Term 4 and played through until early December. This is registration for a Term 4 competition only. Register here - https://www.trybooking.com/CCPBU
Mr Andrew Wisemantel Head of Sports
House Corner
House Captains Reflections
As Graduation fast approaches, we asked our 2022 House Leaders to reflect on their time in the roles. Here’s what they had to say:
What was your favourite moment as a House Leader over the past year? Benildus (Zaidyn and Kieran) Growing the connection with everyone in the House, whether that be the students, teachers or Mr Newman himself. Through the year we have been able to meet so many new students and have aspired to be role models for the Benildus House. Seeing the relationships develop between the Benildus students and us as leaders has made us very proud and the House’s efforts have been outstanding.
La Salle (Maddy and Tess) Our favourite moment as House Leaders over the past year has been at the Athletic's Carnival. This year, most Houses dressed up and got involved in the day, which was a privilege to witness. People wore inflatable outfits, painted each other in zinc, covered themselves in tinsel and represented their House in their coloured shirts. A specific moment that was memorable at the Athletic's Carnival was during the war-cry competition when everyone was buzzing with excitement and yelling in unison.
Miguel (Matt and Sol) Leading the boys and girls at Swimming Carnival's and Athletics Carnival's as well as getting to know more people in our House through activities such as cheer meetings with Year 7 and delivering messages to all the senior Homerooms. Out of all these experiences, we’d have to say our favourite moment was during the war cries, where all of our Miguel pride truly showed. Mutien (Jemma and Pat) My favourite moment as a House Leader has been witnessing the growth of the students within our House, particularly newer and quieter students who flourished as the year progressed. With our goal of camaraderie being at the forefront of our House mission, we were overjoyed to watch friendships form and House spirit grow throughout 2022.
Solomon (Lachlan and Aidan) Either between leading Solomon to a win at the Swimming Carnival or doing the war cries at both Swimming and Athletic Carnival's. Turon (Liam and Daniel) 2022 has been a fantastic year for Turon. We are honoured to have led the House as captains this year and we are very proud of all that we have accomplished. Our favourite moment for Turon this year definitely has to be the Athletic's Carnival. A strong second place in the war cries started the day off with momentum and after our athletes competed in all of the events, we finished overall as Champions, which was a superb achievement for the House. Describe the spirit of your House in two or three words:
Benildus: Like a Lion, the Benildus House is passionate, brave and courageous. The underdogs.
La Salle: Fierce, mighty and proud.
Miguel: Intelligent, persistent, enthusiastic.
Mutien: Family, passionate, camaraderie.
Solomon: Passionate, unique
Turon: Turon has shown resilience and thick skin fighting against criticism from other Houses all year long. Even when other Houses have chanted against us, we have stuck together and competed as a unit which encapsulates what it means to be a Turon Titan. If you could do it over again, what would you do differently? Benildus: We would try and think of new ways to improve House spirit and participation in all aspects of the College. Whether this be through working with the junior grades more in Tutor Group to help foster competitiveness or offering incentives for greater involvement by Benildus students, it is definitely something to consider for the new leaders.
La Salle: We would implement more regular “Kahoot Fridays”, and maintain the “La Salle of the Month” initiative more closely. But other than that, we wouldn’t change this last year for anything.
Miguel: It would be great to have more House orientated events, where all of Miguel could come together as one. We obviously got the chance to do this during the Athletic's Carnival, however combining all of Miguel's spirit in house-spread meetings with all grades would've been perfect in strengthening our force.
Mutien: I would be more confident and willing to take risks, instead of shying away when the role got challenging. Being a House Captain has been an incredibly rewarding role, yet it also pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, speak up and be passionate about what I believe in. Despite the obstacles, I have grown immensely throughout this process and am grateful to have received this position.
Solomon: Enjoy the moment and the process more and embrace the position I have been given.
Turon: If we had this year over again the number one goal for the House would be to spend more time together as an entire House. In past times of Covid we have realised the importance of meeting with all grades and would love to make more connections from Year 7 - 12. This is why the Athletic's Carnival was such a special moment for the senior students as we caught a glimpse of our successors. What message would you like to leave for the students of your House as you graduate from the College?
Benildus: For the junior Benildus students tasked with continuing our legacy, we ask that you keep the Lions' spirit alive. We encourage you to continue participating in all aspects of College life, whether it be sport, service or drama. Your time will come when you are graduating too, so ensure you make the most of your time left at Oakhill and remember to have fun.
La Salle: We have cherished this past year and it has been an honour being House captains. Thank you for the support from each of you. We also encourage all of you to get involved in every aspect of College life. Enjoy school for what it is and embrace the journey, because it ends before you know it. Make lasting memories with your friends and get out there. The best things in life are when you get out of your comfort zone, so don’t be afraid
Miguel: Enjoy your years at the College to the fullest. Although everyone says it, it goes by so quickly and the most important thing, especially in later years, is connecting with people you haven't before and building those relationships you wouldn’t usually expect. Build those long-lasting connections with people. Whether it’s with friends or building a strong foundation with your teachers will go a long way when you're in your senior years.
Mutien: To Mutien students, I would like to remind you to stay true to who you are, stand up for what you believe in and, most importantly, don’t forget to care for yourself and one another. When things get challenging, please remember there are always people more than willing to help you thrive - friends, family, and a network of support here at Oakhill. You are never, ever alone and, to get through your school years, it is imperative that you work together and lift one another up as Mutien brothers and sisters.
Solomon: Do not take your time at the College for granted as the end comes quicker than you think. Get involved in everything and do what makes you happy.
Turon: As a final message to Turon House, we would love for you to continue on our legacy. Continue to work hard and chant loud. Ms Hemmings would love for us to have a victory next year, and she fully deserves it. To the captains of Turon house for 2023 we’ve left you a House of winners and we know that you can keep it going.
On behalf of us all, thank you Zaidyn, Kieran, Maddy, Tess, Matthew, Sol, Jemma, Patrick, Aidan, Lachlan, Liam and Daniel for all you have done over the past year to encourage, inspire and promote spirit within your Houses. We wish you all the best for Graduation, the upcoming exams and the exciting journey ahead.
Mrs Donna Findlay Head of Senior School
Student Achievements
Kieren Jack Medal
Josaia Delana (Year 10) was recently awarded the prestigious Kieren Jack Medal. This is the best and fairest award for AFL NSW U/17 Division 1 competition (Sydney Harbour Division). Congratulations to Josaia who was awarded this medal by Kieren Jack (Class of 2005) an AFL legend himself.
NSW Schools Orienteering Championships
Congratulations to Lachlan Coady (Year 9) who ran in the NSW Schools Orienteering Championships last weekend.
He came 1st in M13-14 in the Sprint on Saturday He came 2nd in M13-14 in the Middle on Sunday.
Lachlan will also be competing for NSW in the U15 age at the Australian Schools Championships in the Sprint, Long and Relay in the last week of September in Victoria, and the Australian Champs on the weekend on either side.
Kids Giving Back Service Opportunity
During the July holidays, Sidney Bourke, Cade Harries and Oscar Swain participated in community programs at Kids Giving Back.
These students are among over 500 young people who produced over 13,500 hot meals, soup, salads, fruit kebabs, breakfast boxes, snack packs, care packs and decorated tote bags, with empathetic, positive messages, which were distributed to 13 charities around Sydney. Volunteering in the July school holidays was especially valuable as there was a twice weekly soup kitchen, making and handing out almost 1000 servings of soup in the cold and rain, to those who needed warm food and support. Our student volunteers were also especially helpful in folding and packing new clothes for over 12,000 vulnerable people, many of whom were affected by this year’s floods.
Their service is deeply appreciated and the kindness they have extended.
Canteen
Canteen Roster Term 3 Weeks 9 and 10
Week 9
Monday 12th September
Kelly D'Aquino, Linda Sammut, Roopal Patel, Wei Hua, Janice Love, Stacy Daly, Rachel Brook
