蜜桃影像

Sir Br Pat Lynch OBE fsc (Board Director) tells us human flourishing has to be the central focus of education. 鈥淪chools need to deliberately build enough confidence in their students, so each possesses these character dimensions: audacious thinkers, imaginative dreamers, critical questioners, innovative inventors, enthusiastic experimenters, committed collaborators, faith filled leaders, strong willed individuals in the face of adversity with resilient personalities鈥�

I believe the true test of a successful education is the subsequent life of a student - the kind of person they become; the extent to which they are fulfilling their potential, using their gifts and talents to the best of their ability, for the betterment of others.

Our theme for 2024 is 鈥楢im for the Stars鈥� and continues the consistent narrative over the past several years about aspiring to greatness in terms of being and doing our best in the context of our five key principles: Faith; Respect, Inclusivity, Excellence and Advocacy for Justice.

This year our schoolwide focus for teaching and learning will again be reading, writing and critical thinking. In 2023 our Allwell results showed continued improvement in reading and writing with average scores above 鈥榮imilar schools鈥� and significantly above state schools. However, the rate of improvement in 2023 slowed for spelling and grammar, which will be an additional focus for 2024 embedded in our reading and writing focus.

This year the College has revised further the Year 7 Transition Program where the Dean of Year 7, Mr Fisher has mapped transitioning into Year 7 at 蜜桃影像 for the whole year. The 2024 Year 7 cohort of 350 students come from over 70 primary schools with different teaching and learning styles and expectations. The Transition Program for Year 7 and the Pastoral Program Years 7-11, helps form students with the attributes and moral campus we believe essential for good civics and citizenship, good wholesome beings known as the Oakhill graduate. This includes every aspect of adjusting to life at the College from classroom protocols and getting around the campus to accessing and joining sport, drama, music groups, clubs and societies etc.

John F Kennedy (1917-1963), President of the USA, said 鈥渆very accomplishment starts with the decision to try鈥�. He went on to say, it will not be easy, it will be hard. Confucius (551-479BC) said 鈥渋t does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop鈥�. Having perseverance and GRIT 鈥� having the courage, resolve and strength of character to keep on doing the hard work after you are tired of doing the hard work you have already done. This defines the Oakhill spirit. This is what Theodore Roosevelt spoke about in his famous speech about the man in the arena of life, face marred by dust and sweat; who strives valiantly; errs; who comes up short; but who does actually strive to do the deeds. It will not be easy, it will be hard, says JFK (John F Kennedy) but we will do it for we must, because we can and we have the measure. Words shared earlier by Marcus Aurelias and before him Alexander the Great.

蜜桃影像 graduates with feet firmly grounded, aim for the stars, know that life鈥檚 journey will not always be clearly defined, straight or predictable. Know that they have a strength of spirit that enables them to rise above the fleeting things to engage life consciously 鈥� they never give in. An 蜜桃影像 graduate always strives for what matters, looks out for the other, knowing and experiencing true mateship, the founding virtue of our Nation; is always up for the challenge, keeps the faith, is good and kind, and knows that they contribute to God鈥檚 Kingdom. (The Oakhill Graduate).

Finally, I would like to congratulate the Class of 2023 and in particular Jed McDonald-Singh, our College Dux for 2023, with an ATAR of 99.7. The 蜜桃影像 Class of 2023 whilst could possibly have achieved a few more Band 6鈥檚 if it were not for their early entries, deservedly earned the title and honour of the Oakhill graduate - feet firmly grounded, who know that life鈥檚 journey will not always be clearly defined, straight or predictable. They were a most happy, friendly group of students, service oriented, good people and good citizens.

Br Steve Hogan fsc
Principal

Board Chairman
Mr John Puleo
Mr Puleo, an Affiliated Member of the De La Salle Brothers was appointed as a Director in 2007 and served on the Oakhill Advisory Council prior to its incorporation in 2008. Mr Puleo is currently a practicing solicitor in private practice for some 30 years.

Director
Sir Br Patrick Lynch
KNZM, QSO
Sir Br Pat Lynch was appointed as a Director in 2015, is a leading New Zealand educationalist and was Chief Executive of the New Zealand Catholic Education Office (NZCEO) for 21 years from 1994 until his retirement in 2015. He also served as President of the Secondary Principles Association of New Zealand (SPANZ) from 1992 until 1994 and Principal of De La Salle College, Mangere, Auckland.

Director / Finance
Committee Chair
Mr Michael O鈥橞rien
Mr O鈥橞rien an Alumnus of 蜜桃影像 (1972) was appointed as a Director in 2013. In 2014 Mr O鈥橞rien was appointed as a Magistrate of the NSW Local Court. He is a retired member of the Royal Australian Air Force Specialist Reserves.

Director
Mr Andrew Madden
Mr Madden brings a wealth of experience to Oakhill with some of his past appointments: Director - Fusion Commercial Consulting; Senior Vice President - Macquarie Bank; SIMPLA - Investor & Advisory Board Member; Senior Client Executive & Complex Deal Lead Telstra Corporation; Business Development Manager, KAZ Technology Services. He has also been a committed member of the 蜜桃影像 Rugby Club for nine years including being Vice President from 2012 - 2014, and President 2015 - 2019. Mr Madden is also a Member of the Finance Committee.

Director
Mrs Donna-Maree Vinci
Mrs Vinci is an Alumni of Oakhill College (1979). Since graduating from 蜜桃影像 Mrs Vinci has achieved extensive experience globally in digital, technology, and operations and risk management. Her record of accomplishment of delivering strategies across people, culture, processes, and systems globally, provides a great foundation to play a key role in Oakhill鈥檚 strategic future. Mrs Vinci is currently a Group Executive and CO at the Bank of Queensland (BOQ) leading the digitisation of the business and customer experience.

Director
Mr Daniel O鈥橞rien
Mr O鈥橞rien, an Alumnus of 蜜桃影像 (1996) was appointed as a Director in 2014. Mr O鈥橞rien was admitted to the legal profession in 2008 and is a NSW Law Society Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation. Mr O鈥橞rien is a partner of Carroll & O鈥橠ea Lawyers.

Mr Robert Munday has taken a year of long service leave in 2024. In his absence, his position will be filled by Ms Deborah Gillis.

My name is Aaron Hickey and in 2024 I will be proud to be serving 蜜桃影像 as the acting Assistant Principal of Pastoral Care. I have been a member of the 蜜桃影像 community since 2013, serving as a teacher of PDHPE, while holding the Director of Administration and Planning position from 2013-2022 and then as the Director of Student Wellbeing and Management in 2023. I am also a huge supporter of extra-curricular at the College, coaching rugby, basketball, and touch football teams since my arrival. I am excited to be taking on this new role as an active member of the Senior Leadership Team in helping continue to grow our students鈥� capacity for excellence as good honest citizens in the Lasallian tradition.

While there are many responsibilities to the role, my key responsibly will be to facilitate the effective leadership of the Pastoral Care Team and oversee all aspects of pastoral care at the College. In doing so we look to meet the pastoral needs of students, empowering them to strive for their full potential in a safe and supportive environment. With support of the Pastoral Team, we look to help our entire student body be at their best, conducting themselves in a manner consistent with College expectations so that all are able to achieve their best, be positive contributors to our College environment, and demonstrate respect for themselves, each other, and the College itself.

In my time at Oakhill, I have built a reputation as someone with the following qualities: fair, approachable, positive, hardworking, respectful, caring, compassionate and consistent. I will look to continue to bring these qualities as the acting Assistant Principle of Pastoral Care as ultimately, I am an individual that cares about this College community and all that are a part of it. Of course, there will be challenges, but as a person that believes in our Lasallian values, believes in our students and wants nothing but the best for them, I will always look to support our students to the best of my ability with their personal growth and wellbeing as a priority.

After working at the College for the past 23 years, I鈥檓 excited to be returning from Long Service Leave to the position of Director of Student Wellbeing and Management at the commencement of 2024. Many of you would already know me from my previous role as Mutien House Dean, where I have had the privilege of serving many families and students of the College. Those that know me would be aware that I view Oakhill as an extension of my own family, and as such have always had a vested interest in the wellbeing and academic care of the students entrusted to my care as both a House Dean and classroom teacher.

As I embark upon this new and exciting journey, I look forward to bringing the experiences and expertise I have developed as a House Dean to the entire school population. I am a firm believer in our Lasallian values and the importance of doing the little things right. As such I look forward to helping our student body reach their potential by conducting themselves in a manner that is consistent with College expectations and values.

As I prepare to return home this year, (Oakhill) I look forward to reestablishing old relationships and forming new ones within the Oakhill Community.

Looking forward to seeing you all in 2024!

I have had the privilege of being part of the College for an extended period, where I found immense satisfaction in teaching within the TAS Department. Over the years, I've taken on various roles, including serving as the Assistant Head of Department in TAS and as the Curriculum Co-ordinator in 2023. As of 2024, I am excited to announce my new position as the Director of Administration and Planning at 蜜桃影像.

I eagerly anticipate bringing my positive outlook, organisational expertise, and valuable institutional knowledge to enhance the seamless functioning of 蜜桃影像's day-to-day operations.

The College is proud of the Class of 2023 for their collective efforts to achieve these HSC results.

Congratulations to Jed McDonald-Singh, Dux of the College for 2023 with an ATAR of 99.7 and James Magee and Samar Riar, Proxime Accessit, with ATAR鈥檚 98.55 and 98.25 respectively.

Congratulations to our three All-Rounders receiving Band 6 in all courses: James Magee, Jed McDonald-Singh and Lara Orshansky; our three Top Placements in State: Andreas Juarez-Mendoza (Entertainment), Adam Tomka Year 11 (Hungarian) and Jed McDonald-Singh (Studies of Religion 1 Unit); and the 117 Distinguished Achievers receiving 220 Band 6鈥檚.

Congratulations also to parents who have walked this journey these past seventeen or eighteen years, you can be rightly proud.

The College also thanks staff for their encouragement and mentoring along the way.

Here is some tips from some of our HSC high achievers: 

蜜桃影像 is a large school, and sometimes parents/guardians are unsure where to direct an academic or pastoral query or concern. The flowchart below easily outlines the pathway if a need arises to contact a staff member at the College.

Oakhill is a very busy school. To keep up to date, we have many methods of communication including but not limited to:

• 蜜桃影像 Newsletter which is emailed to all families and students fortnightly on a Friday (Week B).
• 蜜桃影像 Website. Some of the items you will find include the parent and student portal, sports fixtures, online calendar, payments, Trybooking, Canteen and Uniform Shop information.
• 蜜桃影像 Official Social Media Channels: 
  • Facebook: www.facebook.com/oakhillcollegeofficial
  • Instagram: #oakhillcollegeofficial 
  • LinkedIn: 蜜桃影像
  • YouTube: 
• Due to the often inaccurate information distributed through parent Facebook pages, the College asks parents not to start 蜜桃影像 or Group pages, but for you to follow the official pages and/or communicate with Tutor Teacher, Deans etc.
• Tutor Group Teachers discuss and disseminate messages to students daily.
• 蜜桃影像 Diary which all students receive on the first day of Term 1.
• Printed 蜜桃影像 Calendar with all the planned activities for the year. All students will receive one commencing Thursday 1st February.
• Parent Portal where you can view your child's timetable, assessment schedule, view reports and fee balances etc.
• Interactive Whiteboards are all in classrooms with notices circulating outlining upcoming events, ie. winter sports registration dates, lunchtime rehearsals, coding or chess club times.
• 2023 Yearbook. All families will receive a copy in Years 8-12, 2024 (except girls starting in Year 11), week commencing Monday 5th February.
• Parent Information Handbook which was disseminated to all families before they commenced at Oakhill. This is also available on the TASS Parent Portal. Year 7 parents will receive a hard copy on the induction day Thursday 1st February.
• The Oakhill Drive our bi-annual magazine full of alumni stories and achievements.

Please ensure your contact details are always up to date. Any updates can be made through the Parent Portal.

Parents/guardians were emailed Fee Statements for 2024 week commencing 22nd January. Please contact Ms Lisa Camilleri on accounts.receivable@oakhill.nsw.edu.au if you have any questions relating to your Fee Statement.

For parents who have yet to select the direct debit instalment option, a reminder to please return the School Easy Pay Direct Debit form by Monday 29th January. This ensures that your payments are scheduled in time for the first due date on Thursday 15th February. To access the Parent Set Up form, please visit . For further information, please visit: 

蜜桃影像 is thrilled to announce the implementation of our new School and Student Administration Software (TASS), accompanied by the launch of our user-friendly Parent Portal for an enhanced experience within our College community. 

The transition will happen in two phases week commencing Monday 29th January. Families can expect an email early next week indicating when the system is operational, how to log in and further information that will be available via the new Parent Portal.

Phase One: Existing Oakhill Families

• Logging in: If you have a current student at the College, you will be able to log in using your previous username and password from Sentral. Your credentials have been retained in our new Parent Portal (TASS). The new portal link will be:  to sign-in as usual.
• Forgot Your Password?: If you cannot remember your log in details, please use this link to reset your password:  or click 鈥楩orgot my password鈥� on the Parent Portal login screen.

Phase Two: New Oakhill Students (2024)

• Families with new students joining the College in 2024, will receive a welcome email week commencing Monday 29th January from Oakhill鈥檚 ICT Services Help Desk.
• Follow the instructions in the welcome email, making sure you set a password for the Parent Portal.
• Sign-in to the Parent Portal with your new username and password.

Once the system is 'live', we encourage all Oakhill families to log in to ensure they can access the new Parent Portal to familiarise yourself with the features. The Parent Portal is essential for viewing and editing important information pertaining to your child/children such as medical information, attendance, fee information and academic reports.

蜜桃影像's aspiration is that staff and families work together to attain the best outcomes for our students. Strong and productive partnerships are an essential component of our Lasallian philosophy. Occasionally, we have cases of aggressive behaviour and inappropriate language being used. Parents and carers are asked to always use courteous and acceptable written and spoken language when communicating with College staff members. 蜜桃影像 promotes positive relationships and does not allow or condone aggressive, abusive behaviour by anyone to staff, students or parents at any time.

We are fortunate that such situations are rare, and thank our parents/guardians for your support in words, deeds, and actions. Your modelling of appropriate behaviour is always appreciated and highly respected.

Schools never really stop. Oakhill uses the time available during the holiday periods to undertake many projects, allowing us to complete works without disruption to classes. During this break, the College's holiday works program has included:

• New large-A fans in the CSC (P&F Gala Day & Oakhill Basketball Club funded project)
• Re-carpeting the CSC terrace seating
• Resurfacing the CSC and Benilde Hall floors
• Refurbishing six old Harvey and Turon TAS and Science rooms into10 general classrooms
• Painting all classrooms in the Turon and Miguel Blocks
• Painting the College Library
• Shade cover next to the Adrian building has been demolished in preparation for the construction of The Commons.

There have been exciting developments regarding 蜜桃影像's ongoing Master Plan. Over the break, the College Board, Br Steve Hogan and Mrs Forrest have been shortlisting, interviewing and confirming the tender for the 3-storey Commons and Atrium which will start in early March 2024 and is planned for completion for 2025.

Additionally, the Master Plan committee have been progressing with the final design of the old Science rooms in the McIntosh building which will be transformed into three new Food Technology and Hospitality Kitchens and three classrooms. This major refurbishment work is due to be completed by the end of Term 3, 2024.

Students are reminded that they should not be walking through car parking areas when moving around the College. This includes leaving at the end of the day. Please ensure that you are using the appropriate pathways.

Parents are reminded not to drive through the College grounds in the morning or afternoon from one roundabout to the other.

We thank you for your assistance in these safety matters.

The P&F is a vibrant group of volunteers who are here to provide support to parents, guardians, carers and friends of 蜜桃影像. We aim to promote and build a friendly and welcoming community seeking to involve all its members in building and growing community within the College whilst raising funds, making friends and memories along the way.

To strengthen the partnership between family, the College and the wider community we hold regular meetings, fundraising and social activities, provide consistent liaison and communication and help raise funds that provide resources and opportunities for enriching the learning environment of our children.

The P&F meetings are held at least once a term, commencing at 7:00pm and conclude before 9:00pm. Our first meeting is on Tuesday 13th February at 7.00pm. We invite and welcome all new and existing families to come and join us.

Be sure to click here to and follow our to stay updated on all our meetings and events.

A reminder of the evenings will be in the College Newsletter and on the website during the year.

Our first event for 2024 is our Annual Welcome Night for new and current families to Oakhill. This year journey back with us to the 80鈥檚 for some memorable (and not so memorable) fashion, dancing, trivia, games and the best 80s Cover Band- Soundproofed.

This event sells out quickly and is a great opportunity to meet new parents or reconnect with old friends. More information to follow, but for now mark Saturday 23rd March in your calendar for this awesome event.

GALA DAY PLANNING MEEETING 12th February 7.00pm College Library

Gala Day 2024 preparations have begun, and we need your help. We are looking for volunteers to join the 2024 Gala Day Committee.

Gala Day is on Saturday 25th May and is all about community spirit and showcasing the best of 蜜桃影像. It is the annual major fundraising event on the P&F calendar. This day has always been successful because of the generosity of our College community.

Being part of Gala Day is also a great way to meet new parents of the College and make friends, all whilst having fun. NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED.

Entertainment Book

Another College fundraising activity of the P&Fs is the Entertainment Book. This book is packed full of offers, discounts and more. You can order the Entertainment Book here: 

On behalf of the P&F committee, I welcome you to 2024 and 蜜桃影像. We hope your family will come along and enjoy these events with us! We welcome your involvement in all our community activities and look forward to working together.

Ms Carina Morales
P&F President

Attendance at school for all classes is critical but, at Oakhill we also believe that attendance at major College events is just as critical in building our school community. Attendance on the days listed below is compulsory and requires a medical certificate if a student is absent:

The Retreats and Reflection Day Programmes are compulsory for all students and come under the direction of the College Mission Team. The compulsory Reflection Days (Years 7鈥�10 and Year 11 Retreat), together with an optional Year 12 Retreat provide students with the time to reflect on life and to interact with others in a Christian context. They also ensure a memorable experience in our College community where the individual is valued and where communal experiences of liturgy, celebration and reflection are highlighted. If for any reason your child does not attend Retreat or Reflection Days there will be no fee refund.

Parents are reminded that the Parent Teacher Evenings and Parent/Tutor Day are not optional events. The College has only one full parent teacher meeting for each Year group and one Parent/Tutor Day therefore, presence at these meetings is expected. Parents unable to attend on the designated night need to arrange an interview with the Academic Head (for parent teacher evenings) and contact the Tutor Teacher (for Parent/Tutor Day) on a subsequent day.

Tuesday 2nd April is the Parent/Tutor Day. There are no classes for students this day. However students are expected to attend the Parent/Tutor meeting with their parent for their interview. Interview time bookings will open in March.

On Wednesday 21st February from 6:00pm-7.00pm all Year 7 parents and guardians are invited and encouraged to meet the Pastoral Team. This is a semi-formal occasion where parents meet teachers primarily responsible for their son鈥檚 welfare. For Year 7 students this will be their son鈥檚 Tutor Teacher. Information about coming events and activities at the College will be provided on this evening and parents and guardians will have the opportunity to ask questions or have any matters clarified.

These meetings will be followed by light refreshments. Students are not required or expected to attend. 

As the Assistant Principal of 蜜桃影像, it is with a full heart of hope and excitement that I welcome you all to the new school year. This academic year, we find ourselves not just turning a page on the calendar but stepping into an era brimming with opportunities, challenges, and growth.

After my first year in my role, I reflected over the summer break at how welcomed I felt from all members of the Oakhill community. The previous year saw the completion of the Innovation Hub which is a world class facility that adds to the learning environment for all staff and students. Our students from the Class of 2023 HSC excelled with 51 students receiving an ATAR over ninety. 117 students were recognised as Distinguished Achievers with one or more Band 6/E4 out of a total of 220 Band 6/E4s. All Oakhill students showed remarkable determination in their studies, our teachers displayed incredible dedication to their craft, and you, the parents and guardians, provided as usual your unwavering support. As a community, we celebrated successes, learned from setbacks, and above all, we grew stronger.

As we embrace this new academic year, let us carry forward the lessons learned and the strengths garnered. The value 鈥淔eet on the ground. Aiming for the stars.鈥� captures our commitment to not just educate, but to inspire and empower our students to be the best versions of themselves and fulfill their dreams.

This year we will finalise the new facility design for the Macintosh building and commence the extensive refurbishment to further aid to the learning environment for Food Technology and Hospitality subjects. This is truly an exciting time as the College continues to provide world class facilities for the community and will improve academic student outcomes that contribute to classroom excellence. This new improved environment will help us to continue to develop Learning at 蜜桃影像. The personalised, student-centred learning framework encourages engagement through participation in collaborative, experience driven exercises which, in turn, encourages critical thinking and the application of skills to real-world scenarios.

For some of our community who will be new to the College, either as teacher, family or a student, this may be an anxious and daunting time. We have a whole new Year 7 cohort who like many students before them will be starting their first day at 蜜桃影像. The hardest day for all is often the first but after that each day becomes easier and more familiar, leading to a sense of connection and belonging to the Oakhill community.

Each new school year heralds a fresh beginning which is a chance to set new resolutions and a chance to form better all-round habits for both work and play which should include approaches to school, homework and personal wellbeing. Our spotlight intensifies for 2024 on the transformative role of reading in enhancing curriculum outcomes, with a particular focus on boys' education. In harmony with our Lasallian educational values, we recognise that a strong reading culture promotes academic and personal development among our students. At Oakhill, we formally have a time once a week during the school day on a Wednesday during Tutor Time for reading for mere enjoyment. The Oakhill Library team work tirelessly to have a wide range of books available to read as well as making sure our Library is open for many hours outside of the school day and on occasions during the school holidays.

Recent research highlights the profound impact of reading on academic success. A study by Sullivan and Brown (2017) in the Journal of Research in Reading reveals that reading proficiency not only advances literacy skills but also substantially influences overall academic performance, including in areas like numeracy and science. This finding is particularly pertinent in boys' education, where engaging male students in reading poses unique challenges. I myself read two books over the holidays, but did little reading in 2023 during actual term time which is a habit which I want to change for 2024.

Parental involvement in their child's education is invaluable. We are introducing a new communication platform to access school reports via a new Parental Portal (TASS). We introduced late in 2023 a new School Management System for all staff. The new Parent Portal will keep parents informed and engaged with their child's academic journey. In addition to this we continue to communicate with parents through the many College Newsletters (like this one), parent-teacher evening meetings, (various individual evenings throughout the year), Parent Tutor Day (Tuesday 2nd April), at community events like the Open Day (Sunday 3rd March) and College Gala Day (Saturday 25th May).

The following questions might help individual students to aim high academically:

• How will we establish good routines to manage our time effectively?
• How will we balance our time so that our social media and gaming activities are limited and don't interfere with our learning and wellbeing?
• How will achieve our very best in each subject and at school in general?
• How will we achieve in a subject which we find challenging?
• How will we increase participation in class and stay engaged with schoolwork?
• Will we ask our teachers when we do not understand or need extra help?
• Will we map out our term commitments, both in school and outside, so that we can manage each deadline as it arises?
• Will we ensure our technology is not in the room when we sleep?

The College identified the following three (3) strategic intents or focus objectives in 2023 and these will continue in 2024 which show their importance to help the students reach their personal and collective bests:

• Striving for academic excellence through retrieval routines, academic rigour and responsive, active teaching.
• Sustaining personal growth through consistency in grooming, behaviour and language.
• Succeeding through persistence, patience and partnership.

It is important we share our strategic aims/objectives for the year, as these link academically and pastorally, so that we can work in partnership for the students you place in our care.

For 2024 we launch the new remodelled Principles of Learning Design Framework at Oakhill:

The Oakhill Learning Framework, is still a core foundation that was reviewed in 2023 and further developed from best practice and educational research. Learning at Oakhill is visible and explicit, it helps us strive for academic rigour and excellence.

Teachers will continue to use the Learning@Oakhill page in 2024 to ensure that students are aware of the learning intentions and success criteria.

Outside of the classroom, teachers will spend their professional learning time planning for the new NSW curriculum which begin to come into effect.

Looking ahead, I see a year filled with potential and promise. A year where each student will not only pursue academic excellence but also discover their passions and talents. A year where teachers will not just impart knowledge, but mentor and guide. And a year where our community will come together to support, celebrate, and inspire one another. As we embark on this exciting journey together, let us commit to making this year a remarkable one. Let us work collaboratively to create an environment where every student feels valued, challenged, and engaged. Let us be relentless in our pursuit of excellence, unwavering in our support for one another, and unyielding in our commitment to prepare our students for the world that awaits them.

I am looking forward to what we will achieve together.

Mr Gavin Russell
Assistant Principal Curriculum

References:
Sullivan, A., & Brown, M. (2017). Reading and Vocabulary from Adolescence to Adulthood. Journal of Research in Reading, 40(4), 422鈥�435.
Logan, S., & Johnston, R. (2016). Investigating Gender Differences in Reading. Journal of Educational Psychology, 108(3), 362鈥�378.
Gorard, S., See, B.H., & Siddiqui, N. (2018). The Importance of Reading for Pleasure for Children鈥檚 Cognitive Development. Educational Endowment Foundation.

To enable students to be organised for the commencement of the 2024 academic year, student timetables will be distributed in hard copy as follows:

• Year 7 and 11 students will receive their timetable on Thursday 1st February when they arrive on campus.
• Year 8, 9, 10 and 11 students NEW to the College will receive their timetable on Monday 29th January during their Orientation Day.
• Year 8, 9, 10 and 12 students will receive their timetable on Friday 2nd February.

蜜桃影像 subscribes on your behalf to the Study Skills website which has an enormouse amount of positive advice, tips and skills for our students to utilise throughout the year. Please ensure your child utilises this information for assistance.

Website link - 

Username - foroakhillonly
Password - 41results (the 1 is a number)

The first article for the year is: Unleash Your Potential: Kickstart Your Year with a Powerful SWOT Analysis

The start of the year is a great time to do a quick SWOT analysis. What would you like to achieve this year both academically and in your personal life? It is a great time to look back and decide what worked, and what didn鈥檛 and then look forward to what new approaches you will try. You can either write your answers down, discuss with someone or just think about your responses in each category.

STRENGTHS:

• What went well for you at school last year?
• What study and time management techniques worked for you?
• What skills do you have that help you to do your best at school and in life?

WEAKNESSES:

• What were your greatest challenges in achieving your personal best at school?
• What do you struggle with most as a student?
• What do you need the most help or support with?

OPPORTUNITIES:

• What one thing could you do differently this year that would most help you to improve your results?
• What skills do you most need to focus on improving this year?
• Who in your life would be able to help you to be a better student?

THREATS:

• What are the biggest obstacles to you making changes in your approach?
• Are there other students you sat with last year who made your learning difficult?\What is stopping you from achieving the best results you can at school this year?

After you have worked through the SWOT analysis, choose the top five changes you want to make this year and write these down. Put these goals somewhere where you will see them every day before you go to school. If possible also write down some specific actions or steps you could take to achieve these goals. A good approach is at the start of each week write down the steps you want to take for that week.

You can learn the skills you need about how to be a more effective student at .

Academic progress and a settled learning environment is more possible when priority is given to maintaining excellent attendance at school. We seek parent support in minimising absence from school, as the College expects all students to be present unless they are too sick to attend. It is a legal requirement for students to participate in full-time education and your support and cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Parents are reminded that there is an expectation that students attend 蜜桃影像 for the entire term as gazetted in the College Diary and Calendar. Please remember that:

• Term dates are published well in advance so that correct holiday bookings can be planned outside of school time.
• The College program determines that the students work right up to the end of the term.

Please note that student鈥檚 involvement in all College activities is part of the agreement made by parents and students at the time of enrolment.

Apart from unanticipated sickness, all requests for leave are to be made in advance, preferably with two weeks鈥� notice. Requests are to be submitted via the appropriate form: a copy of this form can be obtained from the Parent Portal. Forms are to be completed and can be sent via email to: jhagerty@oakhill.nsw.edu.au.

Parents will be notified of the outcome of the request via email. Permission for Leave should not be presumed. This process has been developed in response to amendments to the Education Act. Students absent from the College without prior permission or with Unapproved Leave will be given zero for any assessment tasks and/or examinations missed.

No student is permitted to be in any shopping centre in 蜜桃影像 uniform, unless in the company of a parent. While Castle Towers is closest to the College, the same rule applies to other shopping centres such as the Rouse Hill Town Centre, Macquarie Centre and Round Corner shops. Any student seen in a shopping centre in College uniform without an accompanying parent will receive an afternoon detention. There are no exceptions to this rule.

Parents visiting the College are to use the parking spaces marked 鈥榁isitors鈥� closest to the College reception. All other numbered parking spaces are reserved. Parents are asked not to park in the designated 鈥楰iss and Drop鈥� zones. These exist to support the flow of traffic and avoid traffic congestion. Parents picking up their children after school are encouraged to do so from 3:30 pm, when the majority of buses have now picked up the bulk of the students and there is less traffic congestion.

The College uniform must be worn properly at all times. For boys, in summer it includes an Oakhill crested shirt, trousers, black belt, navy socks, and polished black leather lace-up shoes with rubber soles. Girls are reminded that kilts must be worn below the knee (see below). If you are unsure, the details can be found in the College Diary. Parents are requested to only purchase uniforms from the College Uniform Shop to ensure correct style and colour. Please mark all clothing clearly on labels so if lost they can easily be returned to the owner.

The only wet weather clothing allowed at the College is the 蜜桃影像 raincoat. No hoodies or jumpers, other than the College jumper, are to be worn. Thermal or long sleeve undershirts are not to be seen at any time. A plain white short sleeve shirt ONLY can be worn under the College summer shirt.

蜜桃影像 clearly sets out the regulations regarding hairstyles in the College Diary. While mullets, skin fades, bob or mop styles and coloured hair are clearly known NOT to be permitted at Oakhill, it is at the College discretion of what hairstyle falls outside of the College policy. The Deans, Director of Student Management and Wellbeing and the Assistant Principal of Pastoral Care make these determinations and communicate expectations regularly to ensure fairness and clarity for the students. Serious breach will result in an afternoon detention allocated and students may be required to have their hairstyle changed immediately to meet expected standards. Alternative hairstyles or colouring undertaken during holiday periods must be corrected prior to returning to school.

It is at the discretion of the College as to acceptable uniform and grooming and upon enrolment, students and parents agreed to support the College policies and procedures. We ask for continued support on the following:

• Hair should be neatly cut and maintained at all times 鈥� clean, brushed and combed.
• Boy鈥檚 hair must be above their shirt collar and must not hang over the eyes and face.
• Bob cuts are unacceptable.
• Skin fade, 鈥榤ullet鈥� and 'mushroom' cuts are unacceptable.
• Undercut styles are not acceptable, nor are tracks or lines.
• Dramatic layered effects or levels are not permitted; hair clipped on the sides and back must blend in with hair on the top, so that there is not an overhang of hair over the sides and back.
• Hair should not be overly styled by the use of hair products.
• Hair is not to be tinted or coloured (this also applies to girls).
• Boys are not permitted to wear their hair in a ponytail at any time.
• Rats-tails, dreadlocks or other braidings are not permitted.
• Girls with long hair must tie it back with maroon or navy ribbon ONLY.
• Boys are to be clean-shaven at all times.
• Girls are not to wear eye makeup, lash extensions, lipstick, nail polish or fake tan. Light foundation is permitted.
• Artificial nails, Shellac nails and French manicures are also not permitted. Students will be asked to have the polish /artificial nails removed immediately if worn to school.
• Jewellery is not to be worn, with the following exception: lightweight silver/gold chain with crucifix or small religious medallion long enough not to be visible.
• Any student with a tattoo must have it covered at all times, whether at school or at sport and / or when representing the College.

ID photos will take place on the first day of school for Year 7, 11 and new students only in 2024. Individual College photos will take place on Thursday 9th May and then Special Interest Photos will take place on Thursday 25th July. Students must meet all grooming and hair expectations to have their photo taken on these days. Any student not meeting grooming and hair expectations may be denied having a photo taken. All grooming is at the College discretion and parents and students at the time of enrolment agreed to these expectations.

Every student must have an 蜜桃影像 backpack as their primary bag and an 蜜桃影像 sports bag (available in two sizes) for PDHPE and/or sport. College backpacks and sports bags are available from the College Uniform Shop and no other form of backpack or bag is allowed. 蜜桃影像 special touring bags are for tours only and not an acceptable replacement for the 蜜桃影像 backpack or sports bag. At no time is the College Crest to be covered on the College backpack or sports bag.

Students must only be absent when they are genuinely sick. All absences from the College, except for prior approved Leave, are to be communicated to the office (02 9634 0856) by 8:30am or via the Parent Portal (TASS) on each day of absence.

Tutor Group time occurs at the commencement of the school day. This means that the official College roll will be taken at 8.35am on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Tuesday is our longer Tutor Group time and will remain at 10.15am.

Students who arrive after 8:35am on any school day, or later than this, must present themselves to Student Services on the Ground Floor of the Liesse Building. An SMS text message will be sent to parents鈥� mobile phones each day after Tutor Group time if their child is absent. Parents are requested to respond to the text via the Parent Portal. There are consequences for students who have a pattern of lateness, so we ask for your co-operation in making plans that allow for each student to arrive to school well ahead of the 8:35am start. After three 鈥榰nauthorised lates鈥�, students will automatically incur an afternoon detention for each day of lateness for the remainder of that term.

Where illness affects examinations, sporting matches/activities or school determined obligatory commitments, a medical certificate must be presented.

Missing lessons can affect a student鈥檚 performance and routine. For this reason, parents are requested not to make dental, medical or driving test appointments during school time.

Mobile phones, smart device communication tools and ear pods must be switched off and out of sight on campus from 8:00am to 3:15pm, including recess and lunchtime. Mobile phones, smart devices and ear pods must be out of sight during all lessons, assemblies, in the library or whilst on an excursion unless a teacher has given permission for a learning activity or emergency. Mobile phones are not permitted to be used for payment at the canteen, however a smartwatch may be used for purchases at the canteen.

Mobile phones will be confiscated if used between 8.00am and 3.15pm without the permission of a staff member. If a mobile phone is confiscated on three occasions or more within a term, an afternoon detention will be allocated to the student. Parents are encouraged to use the normal channel of communicating with their son/daughter by phoning the College on 9899 2288 if they wish to contact their child during school hours.

When travelling to and from school on public transport, students鈥� behaviour, grooming, language and wearing of the College uniform appropriately is expected to be of the highest standard at all times, as each individual is representing the entire College in the public eye. If travelling on a public bus or the metro, students are required at all times to wait for public patrons to exit the bus or metro before boarding and they are to give up their seat for public paying passengers when appropriate. All students are expected to have an Opal Card and to tap on and off the bus or train each day, as this impacts the scheduling of transport services via Transport NSW.

Those student drivers that travel by vehicle also represent the College in the public eye and are encouraged to always obey the rules of the road. Speeding, hooning and other irresponsible behaviour while driving can be dangerous to the student and others in the community. Such behaviour is unacceptable and with incidents communicated to parents and College consequences applied proportionally to the offence.

An important part of keeping all our students safe is ensuring all medical conditions and medications are up to date with the College. We ask all parents to check their child/s profile on the Parent Portal at the start of term and ensure permission to administer medications and any required information is on the system and is up to date. 

Please also ensure that any medication your child requires is delivered to sickbay prior to the commencement of school in a clear ziploc bag with your child鈥檚 name and cohort on it and any necessary action plans. Mrs Chapman is best contacted via email at firstaid@oakhill.nsw.edu.au for any questions. Students are not to keep any prescribed medication in their school bag. All prescription medication is to be stored with the First Aid Officer.

Managing Anaphylaxis at 蜜桃影像

Oakhill is always looking to partner with and support students who have life threatening conditions on campus such as Anaphylaxis. Please ensure that your child鈥檚 medical condition is known to sickbay via the Parent Portal. One of the ways we partner with students and families is to allow an Epipen and other outlined medications in the Action Plan to be carried by the student in person. However, sickbay should also be provided by the family with a spare Epipen, Action Plan and any medication to support this condition. 

It is very important that should your child identify that they do not have their Epipen or medication in their bag on any school day, they must report immediately to sickbay for Mrs Chapman to assist with supplying their spare Epipen, to ensure they are safe on campus and when attending off campus events, such as excursions. If your child is needing assistance due to a Medical Emergency, they must notify their classroom teacher or teacher on yard duty who will assist in caring for them.

We understand that medical conditions can change and if you have any questions or updates, please email Mrs Chapman at firstaid@oakhill.nsw.edu.au for any questions. 

Parents are asked not to drop items such as sports gear, books, laptops, lunch, money, etc. at the College so it can be delivered to students during the day. Allowing students to manage without items builds resilience and often helps students to remember and be more responsible for themselves. Thank you for your assistance with this.

After school detentions run from 3:20pm to 4:30pm, with Pastoral detentions running on Wednesday鈥檚. Any student who fails to attend an afternoon detention without having a satisfactory reason communicated and accepted by their Dean will be issued a Saturday detention. Saturday detentions run from 8.00am to 9:30am. Sporting commitments and work are not acceptable reasons for not attending a Saturday detention as they diminish the learning that can come from being held accountable for one鈥檚 actions. Requests to change the detention for work or sport will not be considered. Failure to attend a Saturday detention could result in Suspension. Upon enrolment with the College, students and parents agreed to support the College policies and procedures.

After school detentions run from 3:20pm to 4:30pm, with Pastoral detentions running on Wednesday鈥檚. Any student who fails to attend an afternoon detention without having a satisfactory reason communicated and accepted by their Dean will be issued a Saturday detention. Saturday detentions run from 8.00am to 9:30am. Sporting commitments and work are not acceptable reasons for not attending a Saturday detention as they diminish the learning that can come from being held accountable for one鈥檚 actions. Requests to change the detention for work or sport will not be considered. Failure to attend a Saturday detention could result in Suspension. Upon enrolment with the College, students and parents agreed to support the College policies and procedures.

This is a privilege for senior students who hold a current NSW driver鈥檚 licence. Those that drive to school must comply with the College Student Driving Policy. The College reserves the right to enforce this policy and to withdraw driving privileges from any student who fails to meet the requirements. The following rules apply:

• Students are not permitted to drive to excursions.
• It is expected that students strictly obey the conditions of their licence (red P, green P, full licence).
• No student is to park on College property unless they have been issued a parking space through the ballot system.
• With the exception of siblings, no student is permitted to have unauthorised passengers in their car without a note in their diary from the passenger鈥檚 parents, which has been approved and signed off by the Director of Student Management and Wellbeing, before travel.
• Students must show respect to residents, especially in the manner in which they park and use the roads. If the school becomes aware that a student driver has parked illegally or broken rules of the road his/her parents and/or council rangers or police may be notified.
• All students who drive to 蜜桃影像 must register their car鈥檚 registration number with the Director of Student Management and Wellbeing, whether they park on the property or not.

Welcome back to Oakhill for another year and, in particular, welcome to new Year 7 boys, Year 11 girls and their families who are joining the College community. I trust you have had a good break and that your son / daughter is looking forward to returning to school next week. I will be contacting our new Year 7 and Year 11 parents and students with a more detailed email regarding sport at Oakhill.

The ISA Summer Sports Round resumes on Saturday 3rd February, being Round 7 of the competition. With the Semi-Finals and Finals to be played on Saturday 2nd and Saturday 9th March respectively.

Dates for the 2024 Calendar

Saturday 3rd February: ISA Round 7

Saturday 10th February: ISA Round 8

Monday 12th February: Swimming Championship Carnival (7.30 am College Pool) Registration via Trybooking (students only).

Monday 12th February: Winter Sports Registration opens online via Trybooking 
 Rugby
 Football
 Girls Football
 Netball
 Tennis

Tuesday 13th February: House Swimming Carnivals (students only)
 Year 9 - Periods 1 and 2
 Year 8 - Periods 3 and 4
 Year 7 - Periods 5 and 6

Wednesday 14th February: Barker Invitation Swimming Carnival

Saturday 17th February: ISA Round 9 and Pink Stumps Day

Tuesday 20th February: House Swimming Carnivals (students only)
 Year 12 - Periods 1 and 2
 Year 11 - Periods 3 and 4
 Year 10 - Periods 5 and 6

Saturday 24th February: Day 2 of Summer Sport Photos

2nd March: ISA Summer Sport Semi Finals

9th March: ISA Summer Sport Finals

To find out more about Oakhill Sport or to check on fixtures, wet weather, locations and more, please follow the link: /life-at-oakhill/sport

Please note that sport fixtures will be uploaded week commencing 29th January. This is now a live document and should be book marked and checked regularly prior to the weekend.

Trybooking link details will be available via Newsletters and emails. The Trybooking link is also accessible via our website / Quicklinks on the top right hand of the page.

Wishing everyone a successful 2024.

Evette's Lunchbox is Oakhill's Canteen provider. Evette鈥檚 Lunchbox is a family operated business with over 20 years of experience in the food and catering industry, providing only the best foods to students and staff. The canteen menu incorporates a vast range of wholesome foods, using only the highest quality ingredients and trusted brand names, with many healthy options to help make good choices. Meals will be made daily on the premises, and are closely linked to the Healthy School Canteens Strategy. 

The Canteen's operating hours are 7.45am - 2.10pm.

Lunch bags will be trialled for any student who wishes to place their lunch order at the Canteen in the morning. Evette's Lunchbox will also accept cash and eftpos payments at the Canteen, however no phones are to be used only watches.

The Canteen menu is available here: 

Orders can be placed via Flexischools. For further information on Flexischools ordering, please click here: ...

The College Uniform Shop will be open as per the hours below in the De La Salle Building. You may also order any uniform requirements via Flexischools. Flexischools re-opened to receive orders from Monday 22nd January. Once orders are completed, order pick ups are from The Uniform Shop during opening hours.

For more information on the College Uniform Shop including the 2024 price list, joining Flexischools, and more, please use the 蜜桃影像 website link here: ...

Normal term time opening hours re-commence from Thursday 1st February. On this day there will be extended opening hours from 9.00am-5.00pm.

If students would like to purchase a House T-shirt, they may do so via the College Uniform Shop. House T-shirts are optional and may be worn to Swimming and Athletics Carnivals only.