The Oxley College Newsletter Term 3, Week 5 2024 - 23 August 2024
Shaping the College Future
As Oxley continues to strive for excellence, we are currently engaged in the exciting task of shaping our future through the development of a new College strategy. This initiative involves a comprehensive review and planning process, incorporating valuable insights from the recent MMG survey. Parents are warmly invited to an upcoming engagement session on Monday 26 August, where you can join a collaborative conversation about Oxley’s vision, mission and values. If you would like to attend this parent session, please register by following this link: Parent Community Strategy Session
In addition to our strategic planning, we are actively consulting our community about the use of mobile phones within the school. Deputy Head of College, Mark Case, has been instrumental in leading this initiative, particularly focusing on the possibility of becoming a smartphone-free school for students below Year 9. This proposal is in response to recent research highlighting the detrimental impact of smartphones and social media use on the mental health of children and young adults, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. We appreciate the feedback we have received so far and look forward to continuing this important conversation.
Our Performing Arts team and students have recently showcased their incredible talents in the Junior School’s production of Matilda JR. The dedication and hard work of everyone involved resulted in impressive performances that were enjoyed by all who attended. This event highlighted the importance of creativity and collaboration in our students’ education. A special thank you goes to the dedicated staff who made this production possible. Their commitment and enthusiasm was instrumental in making this production the success it was.
With the HSC trials now behind us, our Year 12 students are industriously working on their major projects and preparing for their HSC. Their commitment and perseverance during this critical time are commendable, and we are confident they will open the doors required for a wonderful future.
Lastly, we celebrate the wonderful participation and achievements of our ISA sporting teams and Snowsports team. Our students have shown exceptional skill and sportsmanship, and we wish them all the best for the upcoming Finals. Their dedication to their sports is truly inspiring.
Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community.
Warm regards
Scott Bedingfield Head of College
Business Manager
We value our partnership with you and your child’s enrolment here at Oxley, and recognise that from time-to-time students move out of the area, or enrol in other schools for a variety of reasons. We would like to take this opportunity to remind you about our policy regarding fees in lieu of notice, which is an important aspect of our school’s administrative procedures.
What are Fees in Lieu of Notice?
The fees in lieu of notice policy requires parents to provide a written notice at least one full term in advance if they intend to withdraw their child from the school. If the required notice is not given, parents are liable to pay a term’s fees in lieu of notice. This policy ensures that the school can effectively manage resources and maintain stability for all students.
Key Points of the Policy
Notice Period: A written notice must be submitted at least one full term before the intended withdrawal date. This notice should include your child’s name, current class, and the last day of attendance.
Fees in Lieu of Notice: If the required notice is not provided, parents will be charged a term’s fees. This fee is necessary to cover the costs associated with the sudden withdrawal and to ensure that the school can continue to provide high-quality education to all students.
Submission of Notice: Notices should be addressed to the Head of College and submitted via email to office@oxley.nsw.edu.au. Please ensure that all relevant details are included to avoid any delays in processing.
Things to avoid:
Advising a teacher in passing that you may be leaving is not an official withdrawal and may not be relayed to the Head of College or Registrar, so please follow the above process.
If you are experiencing a problem or concern that you feel has not been satisfactorily resolved, please ensure you bring this to the attention of the Head of College. This allows us to review our practises, address any problems that have arisen, and troubleshoot and work together with your family for the best outcome for your child.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to this policy. It helps us maintain a stable and supportive learning environment for all students. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact me.
We aim to release the 2025 fee schedule to you before the start of Term 4. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education.
Em Cassin Business Manager
Proposed Smartphone-Free Policy
Over the last couple of weeks I have delivered a presentation to Junior School parents and carers on the dangers to the health and wellbeing of young people posed by smartphones and social media, and recently written to both Junior School parents/carers and also current Year 7 parents/carers, to canvas views on a proposed a Smartphone-Free Policy for students in Year 8 2025 and below, that would apply on campus and at all school-related activities and events.
For those who not seen my previous correspondence about this issue, I include a section here to clarify the reason for this proposal:
There is now compelling evidence that smartphone and social media use is having a significantly detrimental impact on the wellbeing of young people and is leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as well as disrupted sleep patterns. Furthermore, studies have shown that a smartphone-free school environment can enhance students’ focus, reduce cyberbullying, and improve overall academic performance. Whilst this policy would not prevent social media use on laptops or via smart watches, I need to be clear that it is the nexus of smartphones and social media that is especially damaging, and which is, in my view, a public health issue. The business model of social media companies is to keep our attention as much as possible. Young people, whose brains are still developing, are especially vulnerable to this. They are forming their identity, looking for validation from peers, engaging in social comparison (often via highly manipulated photos) and looking for connection with others. Social media platforms actively use these drivers to attract and maintain the attention of younger users. If you are not familiar with the evidence for the damaging effects of this, I can recommend the work of social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, especially his 2024 book ‘The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness’, and the freely available research that underpins it: The Evidence – The Anxious Generation.
The survey of Junior School parents received over 70 responses, with 88% in favour of this policy for Year 7 2025. The context of Junior School students is significantly different to those in Year 7 and above, given that the majority of Year 6 students do not yet have smartphones, but the majority of Year 7 students do. The survey of current Year 7 parents/carers is currently underway; I encourage Year 7 parents/carers to complete this, if they have not done so already: Proposed Smartphone-Free Policy – Year 7 Parents
If introduced, the policy would supplement our policy of ‘See it, Hear it – Lose it’ for Years 7-10, which operates on school days from 8.45am to 3.25pm. Students below Year 9 would be able to bring a ‘brick’ phone to all school activities and events (and comply with the existing ‘See it, Hear it- Lose it’ policy). In the coming weeks, we will also have more to say about how this will be tightened further.
I am conscious that there are a range of strongly held and legitimate views regarding smartphones. There will be families who believe that this is over-the-top or unnecessary, and others who believe that it does not go far enough. What is certain is that there will not be universal agreement! Also to be considered is the challenge for staff of enforcing such a policy, as well as the question of laptops and smartwatches, through which students can access social media. On this matter, I return to the research (see Haidt’s work, above) which clearly indicates that it is social media access via smartphones which is especially damaging to the mental health of young people.
Article 12 of the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child (as well as National Child Safe Standard 2) state that children should have their views considered when decisions are made that affect them, and we are in the process of canvassing their views at the moment.
The presentation I delivered to Junior School families is available on the College website, and will use this page to provide additional resources and reading for families on this issue: Smartphones and Social Media – Oxley College
Yours sincerely
Mr Mark Case Deputy Head of College
Head of Junior School
In Term 4, Week 2, the Junior School students will experience overnight camps and outdoor educational experiences across Kindergarten to Year 6.
Where do students go?
K-1 – Day excursion into nature, outdoor activities supplied by external provider and teacher-directed natural experiences with music and art experiences on campus.
Year 2 – a one day outdoor experience at Berrima Scout Camp with an external provider and then on-site teacher-directed activities
Year 3 – 3 day, 2 night outdoor adventures in Gerringong, Kiama and Dharawal Country National Park. Bushwalking, beach activities etc
Year 4 – 3 days, 2 nights at Tallong Adventure camp – low ropes, high ropes, bush setting.
Year 5 – 3 days, 2 nights at Crosslands Adventure Camp experiencing a series of adventures and bush challenges.
Year 6 -4 days, 3 nights at Mt Keira experiencing bushwalking, beach activities including SUP, snorkelling etc
Why do we offer these experiences?
1. A chance to disconnect with technology and reconnect with self and others – We don’t allow electronic devices on camp. This allows students to ‘look up’ and ‘look around’ and immerse themselves in where they are and who they are with.
It can be challenging for a student who is away from family for the first time and also hard for the parents to not be able to contact their child as easily as they normally would. But this time apart increases a student’s self-awareness and fosters independence.
2. Develop social skills – School camp is the place where social skills grow and develop. Most activities at camp involve teamwork, communication and listening. This strengthens established friendships and also develops new ones by connecting with children they don’t regularly talk with at school.
3. Build lasting relationships with other students – Being on camp creates a level playing field for everyone. We often find the quiet student is in fact, a good problem solver or the more confident student learns to listen to their classmates. Placing students in unfamiliar environments where they need to rely on each other and work collaboratively to achieve a goal.
4. Staff and Students building a connection – A shared experience creates compassion and connection. This in turn creates trust and makes people are more approachable. Move forward a few weeks back in the classroom, and students see their teachers as more approachable and trustworthy because of their shared adventures on camp.
5. Learn new activity skills /Build resilience- A student watches a classmate abseil off a cliff and says out loud “I can’t do that!”. But what they are really saying is “I’m scared and not sure I can face my fears”. All activities are offered as ‘challenge by choice’ – they do not have to participate if they don’t want to. For some students, they need time. Time to watch others climb the ropes, paddle the canoe or stand up on the surfboard, before they’ll give it a go. Other students are so eager they charge in full steam ahead. Either way, we always brief them on safety, expectations and the skills on the activity.
Another side is that when students are away from family, they’ll try something they wouldn’t normally do. They’ll give it a go and draw on their inner strength and enthusiasm to participate, without the watchful eye of a parent.
6. Improve independence – For many children school camp is their first time away from family and home. Parents are not there to remind their kids to eat their vegetables, brush their teeth, be on time for meals and so on.
Therefore, this is a great opportunity for kids to grow up by learning how take care of themselves and to do things on their own. Most kids do rise to the challenge and learn to rely on themselves when they spend time away home.
7. Expand experiences in nature – We strongly believe that an appreciation for nature and respect for the plants, the animals, is essential to guiding them through to the future and caring for our planet.
8. Teach personal organisation – The expression ‘prior preparation and planning prevent poor performance’ is relevant on school camp. Encouraging students to prepare well is essential.
As a parent, talk to your child about considering the little things, such as, what to bring for morning tea and lunch for the drive to the campsite. Check they’ve filled their water bottles before they get on the bus. Pack their bag with your child helping.
It is important students know what activities they’ll be doing, what they need to bring to the activity, be prepared with sunblock and towel or closed toed shoes or sunhat, so they feel prepared and ready.
9. Decision making skills – There can be lots of choices on school camp. Should I participate in the orienteering or sit it out? Will I try the dessert offered or because I’ve never seen it before, just pass?
Teachers can only help so many students, so it’s an opportunity for choices to be made without adult influence, allowing them to be responsible for their own decisions.
“You have to let them explore, you have to let them take a few tumbles, as long as they don’t tumble too far,’’
10. Education learning – It’s not just about the climbing, the paddling, the bushwalking on a school camp – there is much more. It’s the subtle things like the smell of the lemon scented gum after rain, watching a flock of pelicans fly over at dusk, observing the kangaroos in the afternoon lazing under the trees.
But there is also the practical learning that ties back to the school curriculum and will be facilitated by teachers / camping staff. Learning these in a setting other than a classroom brings more relevance and logic.
Happy Camping Oxley Junior School!
Miss Jane Campion Head of Junior School
Senior School Update
Mid-way through the term and life at Oxley is as full as ever.
I am looking forward to getting to a few of the ISA Grand Final games this weekend in Sydney. Oxley teams have shown great commitment, dedication, teamwork and occasionally a stroke of good fortune, to make it to the Grand Finals. At the Senior School Assembly on Tuesday, I shared some things we learned from the Olympics, including Matt Glaetzer in the Men’s Cycling Keirin who benefitted in a Steven Bradbury-like manner to claim Bronze. The effort and commitment that got him to that point should not be overlooked.
Jemima Montag who, when interviewed after winning Bronze in the 20km Walk, talked of the commitment and persistence on her way from Little A’s to the Olympic Podium. She also used a great phrase that “You’ve got to want it, but not need it”. This is valuable advice for all our students striving to perform in sporting, performing arts, word or academic arenas and speaks to the resilience that Oxley students develop through being involved in a wide range of activities.
I singled out two of our finalist teams. Our 1st Netball team has won Semi and Grand Finals before, but this year they compete in the Division 1 Grand Final. Our Hockey 4 team has, due to shortage of numbers, played most the season without a full complement of players. They will play a final this weekend again short of players, but having watched them train and play, they give their all and play with the spirit and determination that we can all be proud of. Good luck to all our Grand Final teams this weekend and to all those representing Oxley.
If you spoke with your children on Tuesday this week over dinner, they may have mentioned a difference in Assembly this week. We often sing the School Hymn, School Song or National Anthem, but I gave an insight into the importance of music in our lives. Spine tingling pieces of music, and the joy and positive experience of singing together. The College sang louder and with more joy in their voices than I have heard in a long time. We will revisit this and sing together regularly. I am particularly thankful to the students & staff who have already given suggestions for songs to be sung in the future.
I thoroughly enjoyed the HSC Drama night on Monday and look forward to the HSC Music Night on Tuesday September 10. The teaching staff are diligently supporting Year 12 students as they prepare for their Graduation in Week 9 and Study Camp in Week 10, in anticipation of the HSC in October.
There are a few staffing changes this term. We say farewell to Head of Art, Technology & Design, Mr Richard Madden and Dr Shannon Marecic who are taking up roles at other schools. From the start of Term 4, we welcome Ms Anna Hitchcock who joins us from Cranbrook School, to the English Department and in the role of Enrichment Co-ordinator for the Senior School. We thank Mr Willis for his effort and professionalism in filling in for a number of English classes for the last two terms.
I am excited to be heading to the Outback again with Year 11 for my twelfth trip and Ms Patterson’s tenth. There are a plethora of activities and trips planned over the next 6 months and this is an exciting opportunity for our students to build their resilience and character through Year 7-10 to be able to thrive on the challenge that Outback provides which bonds the year together for the challenges of the HSC.
I hope you have a great weekend and look forward to seeing some of you on the sidelines of the ISA Grand Finals.
Warm regards
Mr Tristan Bevan Head of Senior School
From ‘Teechar’ to ‘Teacher’: The Evolution of Reading Instruction in Australian Classrooms
When I first started teaching ‘back when dinosaurs roamed the Earth’ (as I say to my students!), the ‘modern method’ for teaching how to read was Whole Language, where we labelled absolutely everything in the classroom – ‘chair’, ‘blackboard’, ‘door’ … even to the point where one day, a sneaky student managed to stick a post-it to my back that said ‘teechar’. Needless to say, this method wasn’t always successful! In recent years, there has been a significant shift in reading instruction methods, particularly in New South Wales and across Australia. Educators are moving away from this Whole Language approach, which dominated classrooms for decades, and returning to a focus on phonological knowledge and phonics-based instruction. This resurgence is supported by both current research and the new NSW English syllabus, which places a stronger emphasis on foundational literacy skills.
The Whole Language approach is based on the idea that reading should be taught as a natural process, similar to language acquisition, encouraging students to understand words in the context of sentences and stories, focusing on meaning rather than the mechanical decoding of words. Whilst I do love the way that this approach emphasises rich, engaging texts and fosters a love of reading, it could be argued that it overlooks the essential building blocks of literacy—namely, phonics.
Phonological knowledge refers to the awareness of the sound structure of language, including the ability to recognise and manipulate sounds in words. Phonics, a key component of this knowledge, involves teaching the relationships between sounds (phonemes) and their corresponding letters or letter groups (graphemes). Research has consistently shown that explicit phonics instruction is crucial for developing strong reading skills, particularly in the early years of schooling. Indeed, a growing body of evidence suggests that students who receive systematic phonics instruction are more likely to become proficient readers. This is especially important for students who struggle with reading, as phonics provides them with the tools to decode unfamiliar words and build their reading fluency.
Since 2023, NSW teachers in Stage 1 (Years K-2) have implemented a new English syllabus, which includes a stronger focus on phonological knowledge. This syllabus aligns with the national emphasis on evidence-based practices in literacy education. It mandates that students develop a solid understanding of letter-sound relationships, blending, segmenting and manipulating sounds as part of their reading instruction. The syllabus also integrates phonics with other key components of reading, such as comprehension and vocabulary development, ensuring a balanced approach to literacy. This change reflects a broader trend in education, as schools across Australia adopt more structured, explicit and systematic methods of teaching core skills.
The resurgence of phonological knowledge in reading instruction offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides a strong foundation for reading development, helping students to decode words accurately and fluently. This, in turn, supports comprehension, as students can focus on understanding the meaning of texts rather than struggling with word recognition. Explicit instruction in phonological knowledge can help to close the achievement gap for students who may be at risk of reading difficulties. By providing targeted support in the early years, we can ensure that all students have the opportunity to develop strong reading skills.
The return to phonics has been welcomed by many educators and parents, particularly those concerned about the reading proficiency of Australian students. The 2021 Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) highlighted a decline in reading achievement among Australian students, which further fuelled the debate over effective reading instruction methods. By incorporating phonological knowledge into the curriculum, the NSW English syllabus aims to address these concerns and improve literacy outcomes. Early reports from schools implementing the new syllabus indicate positive results, with students showing greater confidence and skill in reading.
Here at Oxley College Junior School, we use the Pre-Lit program in Pre-Kindergarten and theInitiaLit program from Kindergarten to Year 2 to teach reading (https://multilit.com/programs/initialit/). Developed by MultiLit, InitiaLit is a comprehensive literacy program that focuses on explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. The program is designed to be implemented in the early years of schooling, providing a strong foundation for reading development. InitiaLit has been praised for its evidence-based approach and its effectiveness in improving reading outcomes for all students, including those at risk of reading difficulties. This year, we have also used the MultiLit program Spell-Ex in Year 3 with great success, and plan to expand the use of Spell-Ex to include Year 4 in 2025.
The resurgence of phonological knowledge in reading instruction represents a significant shift in Australian education. As NSW schools embrace the new English syllabus, the focus on phonics plays a key role in improving literacy rates and ensuring that all students have the foundational skills they need to succeed. This change not only reflects a response to research and international trends but also a commitment to providing students with the best possible start in their educational journey. And if I ever find another post-it on my back, it’ll likely say ‘Teacher’ instead of ‘teechar’—and I’ll happily keep that label right there, knowing that I’m part of a team dedicated to giving our students the best possible start.
Warm regards
Alison Rasheed Director of Curriculum P-6
Performing Arts
MatildaJR
I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all students involved in the Junior School’s production of Matilda JR. The high quality of the performance was absolutely stunning, and we are immensely proud of each and every one of our cast members.
A special thank you is due to our dedicated team of teachers and parents. In particular, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Ashleigh Lindsay, Dom Lindsay, Shona Apostolatos, and the wonderful Lexy Meyerson for their outstanding work and support. Your commitment and enthusiasm have been instrumental in making this production a remarkable success.
This performance marks a significant milestone for the College, and we cannot thank the Oxley community enough for your unwavering support of the Performing Arts at Oxley College. We eagerly look forward to our next Junior School production in two years and are excited to continue fostering such incredible talent and creativity.
Thank you once again for being a part of this extraordinary journey.
HICES
Congratulations to Ms. Zink and our dedicated team of tutors for their incredible efforts in taking 40 of our talented musicians to the HICES Music Festival!
This exceptional event brought together schools from across the region for three days of collaborative music-making, culminating in a magnificent concert at the iconic Sydney Town Hall. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to showcase their talents and connect with fellow musicians from other schools.
In addition, our senior jazz students had the remarkable chance to perform alongside professional musicians at The Foundry, a renowned jazz venue located in Ultimo, Sydney. This experience allowed them to work directly with seasoned professionals and gain invaluable insights into the world of jazz.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making this experience possible. Your support and dedication have provided our students with a unique and enriching opportunity to grow as musicians.
Year 12 HSC Drama and Music Students
As our Year 12 students approach their HSC Performing Arts Practical Examinations, I wanted to take a moment to extend my best wishes to them. These exams are the culmination of two years of dedication and hard work in Drama and Music, and our talented students are well-prepared to showcase their skills.
I have every confidence that their performances will impress the examiners and reflect the exceptional effort and creativity they’ve put into their craft.
Warm regards
Andrew Young Head of Performing Arts P-12
Year 11 & 12 Examinations
Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.
Winston Churchill, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Year 12 have completed their HSC Trial Examinations and will be receiving feedback and guidance about where to next. Whilst some will be buoyed by their results and celebrate how disciplined preparation supported ‘successes’, the mindset cannot be this is ‘final.’ No student will have mastered every skill at this point in their HSC program.
In contrast, for some, there may be a sense of ‘failure”, or frustration about how application may not have delivered expected results. Or others may lament it is too late. Students need to understand that this is not ‘fatal’, and it is certainly not too late. They need to be guided by the experts (their teachers) about how to consolidate, improve and have the courage to keep going in the final stretch.
Year 11 will be starting their end of Preliminary Examinations on Friday, September 6. (End of Week 7). They will conclude on Monday September 16. While this a compressed exam block it provides an important practice examination experience. This is an opportunity for students to start honing their exam technique in preparation for Year 12.
The full timetable can be accessed on the Year 11 CANVAS page, under the Academic Information tile. More detailed information about locations and expectations will be conveyed to students nearer to the commencement date.
If you child is unwell during the exam period and cannot attend a session, they will be required to have a medical certificate which covers the dates they were absent. They will also need to complete an Illness Misadventure form (also accessed on CANVAS).
Warm regards
Lee McGuinness Director of Curriculum 7-12
Senior School Sport
Congratulations to all teams who qualified and participated in the ISA Semi-Finals fixtures last weekend. We had some excellent results and some tough losses. I am pleased to say that the following teams have qualified for the Grand Finals this weekend:
Oxley 14A’s Boys Football vs St Patrick’s College 14C’s
Oxley 15’s Boys Football vs St Patrick’s College 15C’s
Oxley 1sts Boys Football vs St Pius X College 2
Oxley 1sts Girls Football vs Blue Mountains Grammar School 1
Oxley Junior B Netball vs St Paul’s Grammar School 3
Oxley Inter B Netball vs Barker 17
Oxley 1sts Netball vs Oakhill College 1
Oxley Hockey 4 vs Barker 4
We congratulate these teams for the fantastic seasons they have already had and wish them the best of luck on Saturday.
ISA Athletics and Invitational Carnival
Students who have been selected for the ISA Athletics team should all now be aware of their selection and should know which events they are competing in on the day. The Invitational Athletics Carnival (Saturday 31 August) is an excellent opportunity for the team to practice for their event in a competitive environment. The carnival is attended by ISA, CAS and GPS schools and attendance is strongly recommended for all competitors. Detailed information about the day was sent out earlier this week.
A reminder that the ISA Carnival is on Tuesday 17 September.Training for all Athletics Team members will continue Monday afternoons on Founders Field leading up to the event.
ISA Summer Sport + Selection Trials
The Summer Sport selection form has now closed. Some teams will select themselves based on the number of students in certain age groups. Most age groups, however, will be required to trial, and teams will be selected based on student performance at the trials while taking into consideration previous playing history and experience. Please see below for upcoming trial dates. Further information about the times, locations and age groups required to attend will be sent out shortly.
Thursday 12 September, 3.45 – 5.00pm:Summer trials and training (all teams)
Saturday 14 September, 9.00am – 2.00pm: Summer trials (Girls Touch Football & Boys Basketball only)
Tuesday 17 September: No training or trials due to ISA Athletics Carnival
Thursday 19 September: Summer training and trials (all teams)
We will endeavour to select and announce all teams by Monday 23 September in order for teams to train as normal on Tuesday 24 and Thursday 26 September. If wet weather interferes with trial sessions, these dates will be used as back up.
There will be no training in Week 1 of Term 4 due to OLE week. All teams will return to training as normal in Week 2, Term 4 with the first round of the Summer ISA season beginning on Saturday 26 October.
Note – Players in 1sts teams may have a slightly different schedule, this will be communicated as required.
Mr Josh Hurkett Head of Senior School Sport
Junior School Sport
Congratulations to all our Junior School sports teams for their outstanding efforts as we approach the final rounds of the Winter season. We have seen impressive results along with great teamwork and sportsmanship across football, netball, hockey, and rugby. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible coaching staff for your dedication in guiding our youngest athletes throughout the season, and to the families for their constant support of our students.
Please find the final dates for Junior School Winter sports training and games listed below. Please contact sport.admin@oxley.nsw.edu.au if you have any questions.
K-1 Football Gala Day
We are excited to announce our second Gala Day for students enrolled in K-1 Football skill sessions on Wednesday afternoons. This event will give students the chance to participate in small-sided games through a mini round-robin format while practicing their skills. Parents are reminded to grant permission for their child to attend through the Oxley App.
Date: Saturday 7 September
Time: 8.30am – 10.00am
Location: Founders Field, Oxley College
Summer Sports Selections 2024/2025
We’ve had a fantastic response to student registrations for Summer Sports. If you haven’t yet registered, please be sure to complete your child’s registration using this link Junior School Sport Selections – Summer 2024/25 by Friday 23 August. Please note that the Sports Department is finalising team numbers, and late submissions may not be guaranteed a spot on a team.
Below is key information regarding Summer Sports selections for the upcoming season:
Year 6 Cricket Registration
Year 6 students interested in playing cricket should register through the Junior School Summer Sports selections but will be placed in the U14 cricket teams, training on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Once registered, parents will receive further details from the Sports Department in the coming weeks. Please note, this applies to cricket only.
Junior School Basketball Update
As we approach the upcoming basketball season, we are introducing an important update to our process to better develop our teams and provide a better experience for all levels of ability. The Moss Vale Basketball competition is a highly competitive and ungraded competition within which Oxley teams have had a mixed experience in recent years. The changes below are intended to better align with this competition and improve the experiences for all of our players.
Trials will be held in Term 3 to establish one team per age group for both boys and girls, which will participate in the Moss Vale competition. Games at the Moss Vale Basketball stadium take place on Wednesday and Friday evenings depending on the age group.
For all other keen basketball players, we are excited to offer a Basketball Development Program on Wednesday afternoons as part of our Summer Sports season. This program includes technical skill-building sessions designed to enhance individual abilities and foster a deeper understanding of the game. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to participate in interschool matches against local schools and internal fixtures throughout the season. There will also be a range of dynamic workshops for all of our basketballers led by professional players from the Sydney Kings. This approach is designed to offer all students valuable opportunities for growth and a positive, enriching sports experience.
We are confident that this new structure will better meet the diverse needs of our students and contribute to a successful and fulfilling basketball season. Thank you for your continued support of our Junior School Sport program.
Warm regards
Fran Dorczak Head of Junior School Sport
The Oxley College Centre for Ethics
The Oxley College Centre for Ethics is the home of ethical inquiry and critical thinking at Oxley.
In its inaugural year, it will be delivering an ambitious program of events for both our students and the local community in the Southern Highlands. These events will feature distinguished speakers and leaders from diverse fields, including philanthropy, higher education, non-governmental organisations and industry. You can find out more here: Oxley College Centre for Ethics – Oxley College
The wonderful thing about being a human being is that although we are born with a full complement of brain cells, it is the growth of connections between the cells that accounts for the growth of the brain after birth. These connections reflect the unique sequence, – a life-story, of individual experiences and interactions with the outside world: a phenomenon known as ‘plasticity’ that leads to the personalisation of the physical brain, amounting to a ‘mind’. Given the unprecedented challenges posed by the digital world to thinking, emotions and well-being, we need to devise the best ways for optimising fulfilment of each individual’s potential. The biggest shift in the 21st Century mind-set is towards one trapped as never before in the present, needing constant stimulation from the immediate, external world. This transformational change is already having deep implications in the workplace for interpersonal relations, notions of identity, and even the thought process itself. Given the unprecedented challenges posed by the digital world, we need to devise the best ways for optimising fulfilment of each individual’s potential.
Baroness Greenfield, Founder and CEO of Neuro-Bio Ltd (www.neuro-bio.com) is a neuroscientist, writer and broadcaster. She has published over 220 papers in peer-reviewed journals, based mainly at Oxford University but has held research fellowships at the College de France Paris, NYU Medical Centre New York and Melbourne University. She holds 32 honorary degrees from UK and foreign universities, has received numerous honours including the Legion d’Honneur from the French Government, an Honorary Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians, The American Academy of Achievement Golden Plate Award, and The Australian Medical Research Society Medal. She is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.
As we approach the end of the year, Oxley is buzzing with excitement for the wide array of upcoming trips and outdoor learning experiences. These excursions are integral to our students’ development, offering them opportunities to explore new environments, cultures, and challenges. Here’s a rundown of the upcoming trips and experiences planned for our students.
Senior School Ski Trip (Years 8-11)
Friday 6 September – Sunday 8 September 2024
Our senior students will kick off the trip season with an exhilarating ski trip. This adventure will not only test their skiing skills but also promote teamwork and resilience in a stunning alpine environment.
Round Square Conferences
Colombia (Years 10-11): Thursday 19 September – Monday 30 September 2024
Tasmania (Year 8): Friday 20 September – Wednesday 25 September 2024
These prestigious conferences allow students to engage with peers from around the world, focusing on global citizenship, leadership, and personal development.
Outback (Year 11)
Sunday 29 September – Saturday 12 October 2024
The Outback trip will take our Year 11 students deep into Australia’s landscape, where they’ll experience the beauty and challenges of the outback, building independence and leadership skills along the way.
Cultural Immersions (Year 10)
Thailand: Tuesday 1 October – Friday 11 October 2024
Nepal: Saturday 5 October – Friday 18 October 2024
Students in Year 10 will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultures of Thailand and Nepal. These trips will expose them to new perspectives and ways of life, fostering empathy and global awareness.
Far North Queensland Expedition (Year 6)
Wednesday 2 October – Tuesday 8 October 2024
Our Year 6 students will explore the wonders of Far North Queensland, diving into its unique ecosystems and learning about the importance of environmental conservation.
Rites of Passage (Year 9)
Friday 11 October – Saturday 19 October 2024
This journey marks an important milestone for our Year 9 students, guiding them through experiences that promote self-reflection, growth, and the transition into young adulthood.
OLE! (Other Learning Experiences) for Years K – 8
Monday 14 October – Friday 18 October (7 & 8)
Monday 21 October – Friday 25 October (K-6)
During these two weeks, students will participate in various Other Learning Experiences, tailored to their year levels. These include:
OLE K – On campus
OLE 1 – On campus
OLE 2 – On campus
OLE 3 – Gerringong
OLE 4 – Tallong
OLE 5 – Crosslands
OLE 6 – Mt Keira
OLE 7- Killalea National Park
OLE 8- Morton National Park
These experiences range from on-campus activities for our youngest learners to immersive adventures in national parks for older students.
Regional Service Learning (Year 10)
Monday 25 November – Friday 29 November 2024
This trip emphasizes the importance of giving back, as our Year 10 students engage in community service projects within regional areas, fostering a sense of responsibility and compassion.
Japan Cultural Exchange (Years 8-11)
Tuesday 7 January – Wednesday 20 January 2025
Kicking off the new year, students from Years 8 to 11 will have the incredible opportunity to explore Japan, experiencing its rich cultural heritage, language, and traditions.
These trips are more than just travel experiences; they are integral to our students’ holistic education. We encourage all students to take full advantage of these opportunities to learn, grow, and make lasting memories.
Parents are kindly reminded to update their child’s medical details via the Portal within the next two weeks to ensure accurate and up-to-date information for the upcoming trips.
Warm regards
Mr Christophe Gauchat Head of Co-curricular P-12
2024 Trivia Night
Dear Parents and Carers,
Get ready for a night of fun, frivolity and fierce competition. Tickets for Oxley’s annual P & F Trivia Night on Saturday 14 September are now on sale. Tickets are $30 per person or $300 for a table of ten.
The theme for this year is the letter ‘O’. So let your imagination run overboard!
BYO food, drinks (no bar) and table decorations. Do not BYO kids – this event is for adults only!
As well as trivia there will be games, raffles and prizes including for the best dressed individual and best dressed table.
We can’t wait to see you there and find out who will take out the title of Trivia Champions 2024.
Year 9 Student / Parent / Teacher Interviews (online)
*new date*
Tue 10 & Thur 12 Sept
Junior School Student Led Open Classrooms
Tue 10 Sept
HSC Music Night
Sat 14 Sept
Trivia Night
Week 9
Fri 20 Sept
Year 12 Graduation Assembly
11.00am, Oxley College
Graduation Evening Celebration
6.30pm, Parc Proxi Bowral
Sun 22 Sept
Oxley Equestrian Day
SES Road Crash Rescue Display
Parents & Friends Association
The P&F are a vital part of our school community, fostering a strong partnership between families, friends, and the College . Our mission is to support the school in enhancing the educational experience for all students and parents by organising events, fundraising activities, and volunteer opportunities. What we like to call friend raising and fundraising .
After the College’s fabulous 40th birthday celebrations in 2023 , 2024 has been a quieter year as far P&F fundraising has been . Our major event will be the whole school Trivia Night coming up on Saturday 14 September .
Trivia nights have traditionally been a fabulous evening for parents to rummage through their dress up box and enjoy some friendly rivalry whilst pitting their knowledge against the teacher’s table.
The College Equestrian Day is another fabulous volunteer opportunity coming up on Sunday 22 September (no equine skills required!)
Please keep an eye out for baking requests and canteen duties via What’s App groups .
We warmly invite all parents, guardians, and friends of the College to join us in our efforts. Whether you have a little time to spare or can take on a larger role, your involvement makes a difference.
We will gather for one more meeting on Tuesday 29 October, prior to our AGM on Tuesday 19 November. As our community evolves , Executive roles become available. If you would be interested in taking an active role or would like to have a chat with what that might involve please reach out to either:
Sooz ( Senior School )
0414 894 544
Kristy (Junior School)
0466 911 140
Kind regards
Sooz Heinrich P&F Vice-President, Senior School
P-12 Father’s Day Breakfast
We hope you can join us for the Oxley College Father’s Day Breakfast.
As we celebrate Book Week, we’re also celebrating our own Oxley College Book: to think, to dare, to dream. This hard cover, coffee table book has been lovingly created to mark Oxley’s 40th Birthday milestone and is full of stories, photos and memories.
Purchase your copy today by following the link below:
The SHCF Young Highlands Heroes award aims to recognise and reward quiet achievers within the Southern Highlands community who have made a real effort to contribute to their local community as volunteers and/or fundraisers.
The SHCF are calling for nominations now!
Applicants must be aged between 13 and 21 and may either self-nominate or be nominated by a third party. The successful winner will receive a SHCF $3,000 grant to donate to their nominated organisation.
What are the key dates?
Applications close on August 31st, 2024 with our first Young Highlands Hero announced in September (subsequent rounds will be held in May and September next year).
Find out more
About the Southern Highlands Community Foundation here.
About the award and the nomination process on their website.
Listen to a short interview on the award with Power FM here.
Highlands Music Collective – French Lillies
Come and Support some of our talented peripatetics as they play in the Highlands Music Collective.
Myee Clohessy, violin Edwina Carter, flute Catherine Barnett, cello Lisa Kawai, piano
From the Highlands Music Collective:
Oh, how the French adore their lilies! May Day in spring is heralded by flowering lilies of the valley, the Fleur-de-lis emblem proudly symbolizes French royalty, and Monet’s paintings of water lilies are loved worldwide. But did you know Lili Boulanger was the youngest composer and first female to win the most prestigious French composition prize, the Prix de Rome, when she was just nineteen years old?
We invite you to experience the beauty and depth of Lili Boulanger’s music alongside other enchanting chamber music works in our ‘French Lilies‘ program for one night only at the Bowral Memorial Hall. Read what audiences said about the Highlands Music Collective’s last “Vienna Gold’ performance in May –
“You all played divinely.” “Thank you for working your magic.” “Congratulations on a great concert and full house!” “An absolutely outstanding evening!” “Such a great way to spend a Friday night!” “A brilliant evening.Thank you!” “The place was packed and had a very exciting vibe!” “Thanks for sharing the gift of music”, “Perfect way to end the week”, “I absolutely love listening to you play!” “Congratulations, the concert was amazing!
Doors will open at 5:40 pm, and you will be welcomed with a glass of complimentary wine and nibbles before the concert begins at 6:30 pm. Concert duration approx. 70mins.
The Highlands Community is invited to the launch of Kindness Connects an initiative of Wingecarribee Shire Council to spread positivity and share acts of kindness across the community.
Amazing keynote speaker, Kath Koschel of the Kindness Factory will share how she ignited her own kindness journey. As the author of Kindness, and founder of Kindness Factory, Not For Profit organisation, Kath has worked with leading global brands to cultivate cultures of kindness and resilience. Her insights and practical advice will equip you with the tools to cultivate your own kindness strengths.
Date: Thursday 29 August 2024 Time: 9:15 am for a 9:30 am start – 10:30 am Location: The Theatrette, Moss Vale Civic Centre (68 Elizabeth Street Moss Vale 2577).
