Term 4, Week 6

21 November 2024

From the Deputy Headmaster

Our Talented Students 

Since late September, we have been thrilled to receive a record number of nominations for the full range of HSC Showcases. Across Design and Technology, Industrial Design – Timber, English Extension 2, Visual Arts and Music 2, we have received 18 nominations. 

Additionally, in Drama, 12 students received at least one nomination, while seven of these students received two nominations (for both their group and individual projects). Most recently, we have been notified that, for the second year in a row, we have had one group performance, and one individual project selected for inclusion in OnSTAGE, held at the Seymour Centre in the new year. We are thrilled with these outcomes for our talented HSC students and look forward to sharing more of our Year 12 successes on December 16 and 18.  

Last week, the Duckmanton Theatre was full of laughter as the community engaged in sell-out performances of the Senior Play, The 39 Steps. Congratulations to the entire cast and crew, with a special mention to Director Mr Paul Eastway, and all staff who facilitated these incredible performances. We also congratulate our Junior Theatresports team of Jasper, Aiden, William, Ren and Sam, who used their quick wit and extraordinary imagination at Impro Australia’s TheatreSports Schools Challenge (TSC) Grand Finals on Tuesday night. It was an amazing effort by the team that placed third; we cannot wait to see what the future holds for this talented group.

Rev. Bill Crews Foundation Christmas Drive

As the holiday season draws near, the excitement of Christmas is beginning to fill the air. With decorations starting to appear and festive plans taking shape, it’s the perfect time to embrace the warmth and joy that this special time of year brings.  

While the holidays bring joy to many, it’s important to recognize that for some families and individuals, this time of year can heighten feelings of stress and anxiety due to ongoing challenges. As a College, we are proud to continue our strong partnership with the Rev. Bill Crews Foundation through our Service Learning program and contribute to the annual Christmas Drive. 

Families who wish to donate are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items and gifts. If possible, please wrap the gifts and include a card indicating the recommended age and gender of the recipient. Donations can be placed under the Christmas tree in the reception area by Friday 20 December.  

Final Home Games for 2024  

Looking ahead to this Saturday, Round 6 of the GPS Summer Season will take place. This will be our last week at home for the year, hosting Sydney Grammar across Basketball, Cricket and Tennis. Our Water Polo program will compete against a variety of schools at both Newington and away venues. Meanwhile, our Golf team will take on St Aloysius in the final competition round, and most of our Touch Football teams will face Trinity. 

We wish all our teams the best of luck and look forward to supporting them in their respective matches. 

Staff profile

Q. Why teaching? What do you enjoy most about teaching?

A. As a teacher, I have the chance to influence students’ lives positively every day. Through teaching, I can help guide, support and encourage young people as they grow and discover who they want to be. Being part of that journey is incredibly rewarding to me. Kids constantly surprise you with their ideas, creativity and questions.

The Newington community offers a strong sense of belonging and connection. As a parent and teacher at the school, I have made lifelong friends and am part of a wonderful team of teachers. There are so many different relationships that develop within a school environment, and I value them all.

Q. Something other people don’t know about you?

A. I had a career change to teaching later in life. Previously, I worked in different creative roles, both agency and client side. When my first child started school, I saw the enormous impact his teacher had on him, and I thought teaching would be the most meaningful job you can have. I’d never considered teaching when I was at school. I feel lucky now to combine my creativity and teaching at Lindfield.

Q. What’s one of your favourite memories from your time as a student?

A. Hanging out in the art room – before school, lunch time and after school. It was always open, and it was my happy place.