6 June 2025

From the Principal

National Reconciliation Week

National Reconciliation Week is held every year from 27 May to 3 June and is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

During the outdoor assembly on 26 May, Vai and AL spoke about Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week. They provided insights into the stolen generation and inspired students and staff to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. I thank them and congratulate them on sharing their perspectives on histories and cultures.

Big Band Blast

Each year we have students representing the school in the Georges River College Stage Band. On 24-26 May, the Band, including Sidarth G from Year 10, participated in a tour to the Big Band Blast in Bathurst 24-26. Students had the opportunity to be involved in workshops, perform to an audience and to be mentored by expert musicians.

The students were accompanied by Ms Pryce and Miss Walmsley from GRC Oatley Senior Campus and Mr Payne from GRC Penshurst Campus. We thank them all for giving up their time, including the weekend, to support this wonderful opportunity for our students.

Attendance

A reminder to students and families about the importance of school attendance.

Every day matters, right until the last day of term. Many assessment tasks are now complete but there are still 4 weeks of learning left this term and it is really important for students to come to school every single day, unless they are sick.

It is important to remember that being at school every day boosts student learning and confidence and helps them build and maintain friendships.

Missing a day here or there may not seem like much, but absences add up. Every day matters and we are here to support all students in attending and engaging with their learning every day of the term.

A reminder that planned travel should be taken during school holidays and students should be at school every day during school term, right from beginning to end.

ANZAC Day

Our student leaders were invited to represent the school and participate in the ANZAC Day Ceremony at Club Rivers on 25 April. Congratulations to Grace W and Andrej N, our School Captains, for reciting the Memorial to the Fallen and laying a wreath on behalf of the school. Thank you also to Mr James Fisher for joining us on the day.

On 2 May the school held an ANZAC Assembly. The assembly and ceremony was lead by students from the Year 10 History Elective class and we were very fortunate to  have Lieutenant Nathan Sullivan as our special guest speaker. Lieutenant Sullivan was able to give his insights and share his personal experiences in a very moving speech to the school community.

Student Shout-Outs

Congratulations to the following students:

• We had 58 students represent the school at the Zone Cross Country. With some excellent results, 8 students are now progressing to the regional Cross Country Carnival on 11 June and we wish them all the best.

Liam C Year 9, Jason G Year 8, Sienna M Year 9, Alex P Year 7, Jake S Year 7, Zoe S Year 7, Amica W Year 7, Grace W Year 10

• Ruby Piper representation in the NSW Combined High Schools Girls Rugby Union Championships in May
• Sam Kakuleni representation in the NSW Combined High Schools under16 Boys Rugby Union Championships in June

Diane Wilson
Principal

Deputies’ Report

Semester 1 Reports

It has been a productive time this semester with students busily working through coursework and related assessment tasks to provide their teachers with work samples for assessment and reporting processes. Staff have recently been collating all of this information for your child’s Semester One Report. Reports for Years 8 & 10 will be issued electronically to parents by the end of Week 9, Term 2, while reports for Years 7 & 9 will be issued electronically to parents by the end of Week 1, Term 3.

Parent Teacher Interviews

Our Year 8 & 10 Parent Teacher Interview Evening will be held on Monday 30 June from 3:30pm to 6:30pm in the school hall.  Bookings for interviews can only be made through the SENTRAL Parent Portal. Bookings will open on Friday 6 June. Information on how to complete the booking process will be emailed to Years 8 & 10 parents on Monday 2 June. 

The Years 7 & 9 Parent Teacher Interview Evening will be held on Monday 28July from 3:30pm to 6:30pm in the school hall. Bookings will open on Friday 27 June. Information on how to complete the interview booking process for students in Years 7 & 9 will be emailed to parents on Monday 23 June.

GRC Oatley Transition Days and Information Sessions for Year 10 Students

The Year 10 transition to GRC Oatley Campus is well underway. Students have already visited Oatley for subject information sessions and those who completed the online enrolment process will participate in the course taster program in Week 9.

The following events are also planned to assist our students to transition with confidence to the senior campus:

HSC Subject Information Night

Parents and students have been invited to attend a HSC Subject Information Evening. Staff from GRC Oatley Senior Campus will be providing advice regarding NESA requirements for the Higher School Certificate and subject selection for Stage 6. This meeting has been scheduled for Year 10 GRC Peakhurst students on Tuesday 24 June at 6:30pm at the Oatley Campus.

Curriculum Expo

GRC Oatley Senior Campus will be providing detailed information about the courses on offer for Stage 6 on Tuesday 1^st July from 4pm - 7pm. Parents and students will have the opportunity to visit the site, ask specific questions about course content, skills and major works. Further information will be provided prior to this event.

Islamic Prayer Sessions

Each Friday, a representative from Padstow Mosque visits the school to facilitate a prayer session for interested students. This opportunity is open to students of all genders.

Parent/carer permission is required to attend. Students who are interested should see Mr Wilson, Deputy Principal, to express their interest. A permission note will then be generated and sent home for parent/carer approval.

Behaviour in the Community

Students are expected to demonstrate responsible and respectful behaviour when in the community. The school relies on the good judgment and conduct of all students, as inappropriate behaviour is often quickly reported back to the school.

It is important to remember that the school's reputation is strongly influenced by how students present themselves in both appearance and behaviour while off-campus. The school will respond to any concerns raised about student conduct in the community.

Students are regularly reminded of these expectations during the school’s Monday and Wednesday assemblies, and they fully understand what is expected of them. Fortunately, we do not often need to address concerns of poor behaviour in the community, which is a positive reflection of our students. However, it is always disappointing when such matters do arise. We appreciate the continued support of parents and carers in reinforcing these expectations with their children.

Student Attendance

Regular attendance at school is crucial for students as it lays the foundation for academic success, personal development, and future opportunities. Consistent attendance ensures that students stay engaged with learning, build strong relationships with peers and teachers, and develop the routines and discipline needed for long-term success. Missing school can lead to gaps in knowledge, increased stress, and reduced confidence, making it harder to keep up with coursework and assessments. Being present every day helps students stay on track and reach their full potential.

The "Days Missed = Years Lost" graphic from the NSW Department of Education illustrates the serious cumulative impact of school absences:

• Missing 1 day per fortnight equates to 4 weeks of missed learning each year, which adds up to over 1 full year of lost schooling across a student's school life.
• Missing 1 day per week results in 8 weeks of absence annually, amounting to over 2.5 years of missed education by the end of school.

Please assist your child to attend school daily. When a student is absent, parents/carers need to notify the school as soon as possible and provide a valid explanation within 7 days. Acceptable reasons include illness, medical appointments, religious observances, or urgent family matters. Frequent or extended absences may require a medical certificate. If no explanation is provided or the reason is not accepted, the absence may be marked as unjustified, and the school may follow up formal attendance processes.

Sophia Favuzzi – Deputy Principal Years 7 & 9
Scott Wilson – Deputy Principal Year 8
Amanda Vials – Deputy Principal Years 10

Year Advisors Report

As we persist through the busy assessment period, we want to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate your hard work, focus, and perseverance. It’s been inspiring to see so many of you putting in your best effort, supporting one another, and striving to achieve your goals. Your commitment to your learning does not go unnoticed, and we are incredibly proud of what you’ve accomplished so far.

As we continue through the term, we encourage you to keep that momentum going. Every step you take, whether big or small, brings you closer to your personal and academic goals. Stay determined, stay positive, and remember that resilience is just as important as results.

As the weather becomes colder, please take care to stay warm and well. Make sure you are wearing the correct school uniform, including any approved winter items, to stay comfortable while continuing to represent our school with pride.

Finally, we remind you to continue upholding our school values of Respect, Responsibility, and Excellence in the classroom, in the playground, and in all that you do. These values are the foundation of a strong and supportive school community, and it’s through your actions that they truly come to life.

Keep up the great work and take care of yourselves and each other.

Year 7

At the end of Term 1, Year 7 attended Foundation Day, which marked a significant milestone in the pathway of developing peer relationships and student collaborative skills. Foundation Day was also an opportunity for students to come together, celebrate, and reflect on their journey thus far in high school.

On the first Foundation Day, students participated in their last peer support session and in a bullying and social emotional learning performance. On the second day, students travelled to the NSW Scout Cataract activity centre and participated in a variety of activities, including challenge valley, waterslide, team rescue, and archery. Through this exciting programme, students gained leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and other important life skills. 

Overall, it was a fun filled day with plenty of friendships, both newly formed and already developed, being strengthened by the end of the day! A big thank you to all the staff who made the day possible. 

Term 2 has been a busy term for Year 7, with the finalisation of Semester 1 assessment tasks, exams and reports. Please continue to stay up to date with homework and assessments by creating and maintaining a study plan for yourself. Additionally, as the weather is cooling down, it’s important that students are staying warm by wearing appropriate winter school uniform. 

A reminder that students can find me in the Library, or Ms Wu in the Maths staffroom, if they have any questions or issues that they may need help with. 

Year 8

We are very proud of our Year 8 students for their positive start to the term and for recently completing the majority of their Semester 1 exams. Further into Term 2, Year 8 will take part in an upcoming incursion that will run for one period on the 24 June: Flip the Script workshop, presented by Backflips Against Bullying. Students will engage in a variety of group activities focused on building resilience, encouraging self-reflection, and strengthening communication skills. We're also pleased to see more Year 8 students attending our Homework Centre this term. It's a great opportunity to get some extra support and stay on top of your studies. Let’s keep up the great work and hope to see more of you there!

Writing Club

I'm thrilled to share that GRC Peakhurst will be entering the Write A Book In A Day competition once again this year! Ms Bukvic is the co-facilitator of our school's Writing Club and is especially excited to see our Year 8 students getting involved. They’ve already shown an incredible amount of talent during brainstorming sessions—full of creative ideas, thoughtful characters, and exciting plots. It’s clear we’ve got some future authors and writers among us, and I can’t wait to see what they create together on the big day! 

Year 9

We understand that this time of term can feel demanding, with assessments and deadlines building up. It’s natural to feel the pressure, but remember, you are stronger than you think, and your continued effort is something to be proud of. These challenges are opportunities to grow, and every bit of hard work brings you closer to your goals.

We’ve seen many of you showing great determination, and we encourage you to keep pushing through. Stay organised, support one another, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help.

It’s also important to highlight the role of attendance in your success. Being present at school every day helps you stay connected, engaged, and on top of your learning. High attendance gives you the best chance to succeed both academically and socially. Make the most of every opportunity by being here, ready to learn.

If you’re facing any challenges, academic, personal, or otherwise, please know that I’m here to support you. As your Year 9 Advisor, I’m your first point of contact. You can find me in the Maths staffroom, upstairs in D block. Don’t hesitate to drop by for a chat, I’m here to help.

Keep striving, keep showing up, and remember that your effort now lays the foundation for future success.

Year 10

On Thursday, 1 May, our Year 10 students visited the Oatley campus to hear presentations on all subjects offered in Years 11 and 12. This marks the first step in Year 10’s transition process, providing an excellent opportunity for students to ask questions and gather information to help guide their subject selections for next year.

Ms Brown and I would like to congratulate all Year 10 students on their outstanding behaviour, which truly reflected the values of our school.

As part of the next stage in their transition, Year 10 will return to Oatley in Week 9 on various dates to complete taster courses in the subjects they have selected. Oatley will also be hosting information sessions for students and parents during weeks 9 and 10.

Save the Date:

The Year 10 Formal will be held on Monday, 8th December at Doltone House, Sylvania Waters. This event is a wonderful opportunity for students to celebrate their time at GRC Peakhurst with their peers and teachers.

Formal information was sent home via School Bytes at the end of last term. Please note:

• A permission note and $50 deposit are due by 2nd June.

Important Reminders

Year 10 are reminded to:

• Listen for announcements
• Check school emails daily

This ensures they don’t miss out on important updates and opportunities throughout the term.

Elaine Cao Year 7 Student Advisor
Mai Otaki Year 8 Student Advisor
Yoliana Elnemasy Acting Year 9 Student Advisor
Fotini Tzoumas Year 10 Student Advisor

TAS

Did you know?

In 1988 Australia was the first country in the world to introduce polymer (plastic like) banknotes.  The technology was developed by The Reserve Bank of Australia in collaboration with CSIRO. Today over 45 countries use polymer banknotes.

The Stitch Squad

Every Thursday Week A at lunchtime, students are invited to A1.04 if they are interested in undertaking some sewing or textile craft activities. Students can bring their own projects from home or they can undertake some simple sewing projects like making scrunchies, small toys, crocheting and knitting.

Year 9 Food Excursion - Royal Botanic Gardens

Our Year 9 Food Technology students had the opportunity to participate in an excursion to the Royal Botanic Gardens on Thursday 8 May 2025.

This excursion was following our first topic, Food in Australia, and provided students with the chance to investigate and taste bush food to discover how First Nations' people's diets began to evolve as first settlers began farming food on this land. Our students learnt the timeline of food in Australia from First Nation culture to First European Farm, then the numerous cultural groups who have settled here, to the reintroduction of Indigenous ingredients to create ‘bush food’.

Following a tour of the gardens and seeing firsthand how different trees and plants could be used for food or medicinal purposes, students were taught the methods of collecting and processing these items. We then engaged in discussions to learn about the different tools used when hunting and gathering food.

Paddock to Plate

Our garden crew has been busy preparing for the winter season planting spinach, lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, passionfruit, an olive tree and some herbs that can be used in our Food Technology practicals.

Last term our Year 7 Technology students also planted radishes in their Food and Agriculture unit lessons and were very excited to harvest them earlier this term. Our Year 10 Food Technology students then put these to good use in a pickle recipe when learning about food preservation techniques.

Workshop updates in C block

This term, our TAS workshops in C block will be updated. While we will endeavour to continue undertaking practical work as best as possible we hopefully will not have to wait too long to have students working again in these rooms, The wait will certainly be worth it.

Course updates

Year 7 and 8 Technology. The first rotation has been completed and students have now rotated to a new unit to learn different technology skills and to work with different tools and materials.

Year 9 Design and Technology have completed their 80’s inspired clocks where they became skilled in using the laser cutter. They are now working on constructing and decorating a wooden keepsake box.

Year 9 Design and Technology also constructed clocks but they were inspired by the Art Deco period and examined the engineering behind clock mechanisms.

Year 10 Food Technology are currently studying the unit Food Service and Catering. Students are learning about all facets of this industry. Some recipes made so far include Chicken Wontons, Sweet Potato Soup and Chicken Parmigiana. Their unit will culminate with students completing an assessment task to design a food truck dish. We can’t wait to see what they prepare!

Rosalie Gualtieri
Head Teacher TAS

CAREERS

An exciting term ahead with regards to Year 10 careers.  Students are undertaking careers lessons to better understand the credential of the Higher School Certificate and the focus is on students choosing the best pattern of study for Years 11 and 12.  The program helps students consider their subject selection pattern of study for their future senior years, at school.  Course selection considerations for the Preliminary and HSC should include:

• Abilities
• Interests/Motivation
• Career aspirations and needs
• Syllabus requirements - Practical/Major work components
• Subject combinations
• Other commitments.

Students can revise their lessons located in their Google Classroom for careers by going to:

Google Classroom - Classwork - Assignment – searching the Careers Lesson by number.  Further useful information is located at the GRC Peakhurst careers website at the following link:

On Tuesday 25 June, a HSC / Subject Selection Information Evening for Peakhurst Campus students & parents will take place at GRC Oatley Campus from 6:30pm, in the gym.  Staff from the GRC Oatley Campus will be providing advice regarding NESA Requirements around the Higher School Certificate and subject selection for Stage 6 (Compulsory for students and parents to attend.) It is critical that students are provided with consistent information regarding courses, so that they not only choose courses that they like and are capable of achieving success in but courses that will gain them the qualifications they aspire to. Once students begin a course in Year 11, it is very difficult to change to another course, as available spaces are limited and NESA requires a certain number of hours of study to successfully complete the Year 11 Record of School Achievement which is a prerequisite for study in Year 12.

GRC Oatley Senior Campus will be providing detailed information about the courses on offer for Stage 6. Parents and students will have the opportunity to ask specific questions about course content, skills and major works.

On Tuesday 2 July, GRC Oatley Senior Campus will run a Curriculum Expo at GRC Oatley from 4pm to 7pm.

Importantly, students need to return all the paperwork provided to you on Tuesday 25 June, HSC / Subject Selection Information Evening to Ms Arfanis, Careers Advisor by Friday 25 July, 9am.  This is the final date/time for submission of Year 11, 2026 subject selection forms, for your child to be eligible to go to GRC Oatley Senior Campus.

Kicking off on Monday 18 August to Thursday 21 August, Year 10 Subject Selection Interviews will take place with Oatley Campus Staff at the Peakhurst Campus. (Interview Roster to be distributed in Term 3.)  There will be no subject changes after 22 August.

Finally, in Term 4, GRC Oatley Senior Campus Orientation Day will take place.

YES Program TAFE Taster Courses

A number of students were successful and are undertaking a TAFE taster course in Term 2.  They include:

• Almah H - Health Services (Nursing)
• Ali Hassan K - Introduction to Plumbing Trade
• Isra B - Introduction to Carpentry and Construction
• Yoel T - Introduction to Carpentry and Construction
• Jasmine N - Barista, Café Skills and Hospitality
• Varun B - Barista, Café Skills and Hospitality
• Innaz P - Barista, Café Skills and Hospitality
• Sophia S - Media Mix of Journalism, Radio, Social Media Skills
• Bella B - Early Childhood Education
• Andrej N - Electrical Trades
• Harper V - Electrical Trades
• Ava S - Introduction to Business
• Melis C - Secrets of Beauty Professionals
• Helena P- Electrotechnology Girls Only
• Milica D - Electrical Trades
  

EVET

EVET are externally delivered, vocational education and training courses.  These courses are also known as TVET because they are delivered at TAFE.  The courses have been made available to students to have an opportunity to learn "hands on" skills, in a practical manner while building their knowledge of the industry.  These students can then boast about learning in an "adult environment" as well as achieving an extra credential to highlight on their resume. 

The following students are undertaking an EVET course in Certificate 1 in Hospitality - Stage 5, at TAFE, Loftus Campus, on a Wednesday: Gisele B, Bella C, Raziella D, Evie F, Amira K, Jessie L, Taylor M and Sienna-Layne S.

The following students are undertaking an EVET course in Certificate 1 in Automotive - Stage 5 Ultimo Campus on a Tuesday: Eden F, Mohammed H, Jason M, Japmann S and Anthony W.

The following students are undertaking an EVET course in Certificate 1 in Automotive - Stage 5 Ultimo Campus on a Thursday: Sunny D, Kieran G, Qi En L, Hamish M, Yoel T, and Christian Y.

Work Experience

In preparation for a great placement in Term 4, the expectation is that all Year 10 students will have work experience paperwork completed and ready for approval by midway through Term 3, or earlier.  Before the end of Term 3, students are to personally give the paperwork to Ms Arfanis located in D0.14 on a Wednesday, Thursday or Friday.  

Students will be permitted to attend TWO placements, for a week each, if they so wish.  The onus is on the student to source host employer(s) for their placement.  The majority of students choose to go to ONE placement for two weeks.  There are many benefits from a work experience placement whereby students experience the reality of the "world of work".  It can help them gain an understanding of a career pathway or assist them in gaining work as a casual, or part time, after school.  It can also assist in gaining clarity or provide possible insight into prospective courses which will benefit them with foundation knowledge or skills for a future pathway.  This insight can assist Year 10 students to choose their courses for Years 11 and 12, at subject selection time early Term 3. Work experience should be added to a student’s resume.  However, note the compulsory work experience placement dates are in Term 4 of Week 6 and Week 7, as follows.  Exact dates are:

Week 6 : 17 November, 18 November, 19 November, 20 November, and 21 November.

Week 7: 24 November, 25 November, 26 November, 27 November and 28 November.

Students can ask Ms Arfanis for the Student Placement Record Form paperwork, if they require it sooner than it's official distribution in Term 3.

Some industrious students have already taken advantage of this opportunity, and are currently experiencing it this term.  These students are considering undertaking a School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (known as an SBAT) while completing their HSC or may be entering the workforce rather than progressing to senior studies.

White Card Training

White Card Training will next be delivered at school on 12 September, Term 3.  To put your child’s name on the wait list for future White Card Training sessions, go to see Ms.Arfanis in Room D0.14 or email Ms.Arfanis at antonella.arfanis@det.nsw.edu.au and inform her.  Please ensure all students have an Unique Student Identifier (USI) number.

Attendance at Open Days for universities

Another consideration would be attending an Open Day for a university so if your Year 10 child is considering going to university, in future.  For example, University of NSW on September 6, The University of Sydney on August 30, and Macquarie University on August 16. Charles Sturt University campuses will host open days in August across different locations. The University of Newcastle will hold open days in Newcastle on August 16th and on the Central Coast on August 30th. Simply google the university Open Day for any university your child is interested in attending so they can envisage their future experience at a university via the Open Day.

What to expect: 

• Dive deeper into degrees at information sessions
• Connect with experts and existing students at the university 
• Take a campus tour
• Explore student accommodation.

Engineering Tomorrow Bridges Incursion

• The Careers Department offered a number of industrious Year 10 students an experience on May 8 to discover and learn about the scientific and real-world aspects of bridges. Students explored and designed their own bridges, in a Bridges Virtual Lab day, along with 70 other schools in NSW.  The students engaged in the engineering design process; analysed complex real-world problems following specific criteria in order to problem-solve; and discovered the variety of ways bridges can be designed.  Their group bridge design is displayed in the library, if you are interested in seeing their feats of achievement.

Toni Arfanis
Careers Advisor

WELLBEING

We are proud to run a range of wellbeing initiatives designed to support students in developing strong foundations of self-care and self-respect. These programs focus on helping students understand the importance of looking after their mental, emotional, and physical health through daily habits and intentional practices. From open discussions on managing stress to the importance of physical activity, students are encouraged to prioritise their wellbeing in a supportive and inclusive environment. 

For our female year 7 students, our Shine program provides useful resources to promote sound judgement and emotional control. Our students will gain resilience and learn how to deal with everyday obstacles through workshops and supervised activities. The program fosters optimism, boosting self-esteem and inner self care. 

Our Police Youth Engagement Officers from St George PCYC facilitate Fit For Change aimed at empowering girls through holistic development. The program focuses on building healthy relationships, self-esteem, and positive lifestyle habits. Workshops and activities are tailored to help girls grow in confidence and resilience. Participants engage in safe, supportive environments led by trained mentors. PCYC is proud to invest in the next generation of strong, healthy young women.

Our Boys Mentoring program provides an ongoing mentoring sessions with our selected students addressing resilience, self-worth, managing emotions and reflecting on best practise.

By nurturing self-awareness and emotional intelligence, we are building a school culture grounded in mutual respect, compassion, and personal growth.

Deborah Vlachos
Relieving Head Teacher Wellbeing

NSW PUBLIC SCHOOLS STUDENT SURVEY

In Term 2, we are offering our students the opportunity to participate in the NSW Public Schools Student Survey. The survey gives students the chance to share their thoughts and feelings about life at school, including questions about their engagement, learning experiences and wellbeing at school.

Hearing directly from our students will help us understand what’s working well and where improvements can be made to our school. The survey is confidential, takes around 10 to 15 minutes to complete, and will be conducted online during school hours.

Participation is voluntary. If you prefer your child not to participate, please complete the opt-out consent form, which will be sent home, and return it to the school. Further information about the survey is available at https://education.nsw.gov.au/npss

Riverwood Local Centre Master Plan Flyer

FOSTER CARERS