Reminders for Term 3

The Term 3 Events Overview for Parents can be found here and on Cranbrook Connect.

Message from Michele Marquet, Acting Head of School

Dear Parents and Carers,

Last Monday night at Threads, the superb Music showcase, at the Sydney Town Hall, we were able to experience the joy of coming together as a whole school community. The Junior School students’ performances, vocally and instrumentally, individually and in combined items, were breathtakingly beautiful. Our Senior School students were extraordinary – every item memorable and showcasing the marvellous musical talent and commitment to rehearsal of a huge number of Cranbrookians. Once again, our heartfelt thanks must go to our truly outstanding Music staff, led by Philip Beverley, Head of Music P-12, who inspire and allow these talents to flourish and be shared. A gallery from the evening can be viewed here.

This year has shown how a vital and united community such as ours can sustain our School as nothing else can. The positivity, kindness and support of our families at Pre-school functions, Junior School Athletics Carnivals, the various Junior School and Senior School Music events, Drama shows, Debating nights and a plethora of Saturday sport fixtures (despite the weather!) has been so inspiring for students and staff alike.

The entire School staff across every campus and I thank all our School families for their unstinting support and encouragement throughout this past semester. We wish everyone a safe and relaxing holiday break. We look forward to an exciting and invigorating Term 3.

Kind wishes,

Michele Marquet
Acting Head of School

Message from Grant Andrews, Acting Head of Junior School

Dear Parents and Carers,

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as the Acting Head of Junior School this term, finding the experience both rewarding and enriching. The role has provided me with a deeper insight into the daily workings and challenges of our School, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to our students’ education and well-being. I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support and collaboration from our dedicated staff and the active involvement of our parents, which have been instrumental in creating a positive and dynamic learning environment. Their encouragement and commitment have made this term an inspiring journey, and I look forward to continuing to work together to support our students’ growth and success.

Y3–Y6 Athletics Carnival
The Years 3-6 Athletics Carnival was a resounding success, showcasing not only the athletic talents of our young competitors but also a strong sense of sportsmanship and community spirit. Students participated with enthusiasm and determination, pushing their limits in a range of events from sprints to long jumps. The event was marked by numerous record-breaking performances, highlighting the exceptional capabilities of our students. The carnival buzzed with a great community feel, with parents, teachers, and students cheering on the participants, creating an environment of support and encouragement. This spirit of camaraderie was particularly evident in the way competitors congratulated each other and celebrated every achievement, big or small.

A special thank you goes to Mr. Roughan, Mr. Cohen, and Mr. Taylor, whose dedication and hard work were instrumental in making this event a triumph. Alongside them, the efforts of all staff members, groundsmen, School Nurse and Senior School helpers were invaluable in ensuring the carnival ran smoothly and efficiently. Their commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere did not go unnoticed. Congratulations to Potter House for taking home the winners’ trophy, a testament to their outstanding performances and team spirit. This year’s Athletics Carnival not only highlighted the competitive edge of our students but also strengthened the bonds within our School community. Well done to everyone involved!

Y3–Y12 Music Showcase
A superb evening was held on Monday night at the Sydney Town Hall. The Senior School and Junior School students’ performances in Threads, were outstanding. We extend enormous thanks to our phenomenal Music staff, led by Philip Beverley, Head of Music P-12, Peter Fox, Jane Holmes à Court and Fiona Chan, who have nurtured and inspired our talented students.

Staffing News
We farewell Mrs Lara Fleetwood who commences maternity leave at the end of term. We wish her the very best for the birth of her second child and with her husband, Dan and daughter, Elyse, as they welcome another member to their family.

We are pleased to welcome Rebecca Armstrong to the Junior School as one of our new Visual Arts Teachers. Rebecca trained in Ireland and has taught in both Ireland and Australia across both primary and high school contexts. Most recently, Rebecca has taught at Hills Grammar School, but she is very familiar with Cranbrook as she taught with us last year. Rebecca has a particular interest in ceramics but is most passionate about inspiring her students to engage in creating art as a way to express themselves.

Next semester, we also welcome Ms Laurene Serret who will be teaching French in the Junior School, covering Mr Emmanuel Chaveroux’s classes whilst he is on leave until the end of 2024. Laurene is a native French speaker with her education studies being completed at the Sorbonne. She has taught in France, French Polynesia and Australia, including Kambala, the French School and International Grammar School.

The staff and I thank all our Junior School and Pre-school families for their ongoing support, and we wish everyone a safe and relaxing holiday break. We look forward to seeing everyone at the start of Term 3.

Kind regards,

Grant Andrews
Acting Head of Junior School

From the Deputies

Dear Families,

End of Semester Reports
Semester 1 academic reports will be sent to families early in the holidays, via email. These reports complement the information already shared with you this semester, through the end of unit progress reports and parent-teacher meetings.

The Kindergarten end-of-semester report will give a global picture of your child’s progress over the semester and include indications of how frequently his work habits are being displayed independently. A general comment from the class teacher is also included.

The Years 1-6 end-of-semester report provides a global picture of your child’s progress in all subjects over the semester. The reports will indicate at what level he is showing secure mastery of the relevant outcomes, concepts, content and skills taught. An indication of how frequently he independently applies the pertinent year level work habits is included. A general comment from the class teacher is also included.

Year 1 families, and any other families who are new to the School, may like to attend our parent engagement session in Week 1 of next term.

Date:             Thursday, 25 July 2024

Time:             5pm – 6pm

Location:      Year 1 Piazza

Audience:     Year 1 parents and parents new to Cranbrook

Topic:            ‘What Does This All Mean? Understanding Your Son’s School Reports’

We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday.

Kind regards

The Deputies

Pre-schools’ News – Week 9

Dear Families,

As we come to the end of another successful term, we want to extend our wishes for a restful and enjoyable break. It has been a joy to see the growth and enthusiasm in our Pre-schoolers over the past weeks.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Pre-school from Tuesday, 23 July.

Our Term 2 Newsletter will be sent to you this week. It contains important information and dates for Term 3, so make sure to take note of these updates to stay informed about upcoming events and activities.

This is a great time to check all of your children’s belongings to make sure that everything is named ready for the start of term.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our Pre-school community. Have a lovely break, and we can’t wait to see you next term.

Kind regards,

Abigail McFarlane
Pre-schools’ Coordinator

Cranbrook Junior School Canteen Survey 2024: Your Feedback Matters

Dear Cranbrook Junior School Parents & Carers, 

Thank you for your participation in the recent canteen survey. We received an impressive 699 responses from parents, students, and staff. Your feedback has been invaluable in helping us identify key areas for improvement in our canteen services.

Key Highlights and Changes:

Product Variety and Quality: We have noted your suggestions for a greater variety of products, as well as concerns regarding quality and value for money. We are actively working with Chartwells to address these issues and enhance our offerings.

Reintroducing Toasties: Many of you expressed a desire to see more toasties available for students. We are collaborating with Chartwells to determine the best way to reintroduce these popular items at various mealtimes in the Junior School.

Pre-Purchase of Recess Items: In response to numerous requests, we are planning a 4-week trial of Recess Items starting at the beginning of Term 3. This trial will allow for the pre-purchase of ambient and chilled recess items, with an ordering cut-off time of 7.00am on the morning of the purchase.  This initiative aims to provide greater convenience and ensure that students have access to their preferred snacks.

We appreciate your continued support and feedback. Our goal is to ensure that the canteen provides a satisfying and valuable experience for all students. We hope the changes we implement in partnership with Chartwells will be well received.

Thank you once again for your participation in the survey.

Warm regards,

Richard Baker
Deputy Head Operations and Staffing

CJS Clothing Donations Appeal

A HUGE thank you for your contributions towards the CJS Clothing Donations Appeal (in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Rose Bay). Students and families donated items of clothing such as jackets, jumpers and trousers. These clothes were collected and sent to the Wayside Chapel in Bondi. Thanks goes to Alexander Pontifix (Y6) who has led this initiative and Alexander Twaits for his assistance on the day.

Kindergarten MCA Art Excursion Gallery

CSPA Update

1. Notice of CSPA Meeting

The CSPA Term 3 Meeting will be held on Wednesday, 31 July 2024 at 7:00pm in the Nugent Boardroom, Senior School.

2. Second Hand Uniform Sale

The Second Hand Uniform Sale will be held on Monday, 22 July 2024 from 12pm – 2pm in the Senior School Gym.

Becoming a Member of Cranbrook School

Cranbrook School is a public company limited by guarantee which was established to provide students with a well-rounded, liberal education based on Christian beliefs.

It is governed by the School Council in accordance with its Constitution and has a membership comprised of eligible persons who have made significant contributions to Cranbrook or who are key stakeholders in its mission.

Parent of students in Kindergarten to Year 12 attending Cranbrook are eligible to become a Member of Cranbrook School for so long as they have a child attending the School.

The Members of Cranbrook School play an important role in the governance of Cranbrook. Being a Member entitles you to attend and vote at general meetings of Cranbrook School. This includes attending and voting at the Annual General Meeting, where the matters considered include receiving the statutory financial reports and electing members of the School Council.

If you are not already a Member of Cranbrook School, and wish to become one, please indicate your willingness to do so by completing and returning the application form which can be found on Cranbrook Connect here.

Applications are subject to approval by the School Council, and will be considered at the next possible School Council meeting after receipt of your completed application.

We encourage you to apply to become a Member of Cranbrook School and to take up the opportunity to contribute to the governance of the School.

If you have any questions regarding membership of Cranbrook School, please contact Sarah Deveson, Company Secretary, by email on councilsecretary@cranbrook.nsw.edu.au.

Geoff Lovell
President of School Council

Little Leagues Winter Report Round 7

It was a quiet day on Saturday with all games cancelled except for Multi-Sports who carried the Cranbrook flag in style with their Saturday morning session. While there was little Saturday morning action, there has been plenty happening in Junior School Sport including the Years 3-6 Athletics Carnival hosted last Thursday and CIS rugby trials on Wednesday and Thursday of last week.

With no Saturday sport this weekend, I wish all students a restful and enjoyable school holiday break. With 3 rounds left of winter sport, we look forward to a focused and energised last quarter of the winter season.

Yours in Sport,

Mr James Roughan
Head of Sport & PDHPE

CIS Rugby Trials

I would like to recognise and congratulate the following students for making it through to the CIS rugby trials – Charlie R, Xavier M, Luca M, Sebastian D, and Spike L, Henry C-S (unfortunately unable to attend due to injury).

These students were selected from IPSHA to compete in the trials that were held at Andrew Petrie Oval (Woollahra 1). All boys demonstrated excellent skills and held their own in a highly competitive field of trialists. Xavier M and Sebastian D made it through to the final day of trials and were unlucky not to be selected. Overall, it was an excellent experience for the students and part of their ongoing rugby journey.

Multi-Sports

In round 7 of Multi-Sports, the students had a fantastic week of training, highlighted by some high-level games of indoor football. Derrick Z and Kingston T were named players of the week for their exceptional dedication and effort across all aspects of Multi-Sports. Their commitment and skill set a great example for their peers.

Josh Cohen
Assistant Head of Sport & PDHPE

Years 3 – 6 Athletics Carnival

Last Thursday, Cranbrook Junior School hosted its Years 3-6 Athletics Carnival on Dangar Oval. The day shone with crisp, clear and sunny conditions, setting an excellent backdrop for the event, which was marked by outstanding student performances and a celebration of community spirit.

From the start, students displayed excellent camaraderie, cheering for their peers and celebrating each other’s successes. The competitive spirit was evident as everyone gave their best across the entire day’s events.

A highlight of the carnival was the breaking of 13 school records, reflecting the dedication and hard work of the students and the excellent support from coaches and staff.

Overall, the Years 3-6 Athletics Carnival was a tremendous success, marked by record-breaking performances and a vibrant community spirit. Congratulations to all participants, parents, and staff for making the event memorable.

Congratulations to Potter House for their outstanding achievement in securing the Athletics House Cup!

House results:

• Potter: 402
• Dangar: 384
• Hordern: 382
• Moyes: 362.50
• Ingram: 344.50
• Warry: 314

Age Champions

8 Years

1. Rory S, Harry M, Gabriel V, Hunter G (first equal)

9 Years

1. Aryan S
2. Jet S
3. Aiden P

10 Years

1. Eddie C
2. Alfie L-B
3. Harvey C

11 Years

1. Jimmy C
2. Santiago D
3. William S

12/13 Years

1. Oscar R
2. Oliver F
3. Joseph L

School Records
Congratulations to the following students who broke school records on the day:

NBA Basketball School July Holiday Camps

View July Holiday Camps here.

Music News – Week 9

Dear Parents and Carers,

What a wonderful Term 2 we have had in the Junior School celebrating all things music, from our Music Morning Concerts, Assembly performances, Junior School Soirée, our K-2 and Y3-Y6 Showcases, and finally our Threads Gala Concert at Town Hall on Monday night. Congratulations to all our performers in achieving excellence! The Music Department is thrilled to have witnessed the growth, enthusiasm and artistic sensibility of our young musicians.

Please click on the video links to view our K-2 and Y3-Y6 Junior School Showcases. The password is music.

Looking ahead…

Our musicians will have further performance opportunities in Term 3, and I would like to bring to your attention our Y3-Y6 Junior School Eisteddfod on Thursday, 29th August (Week 6), as part of our Spring Festival. Further information and entry form can be found here.

Wishing you and your family a very restful break.

Best wishes,

Peter Fox
Head of Music, Junior School