Connect Magazine | Issue 3, 2024 | Enjoying God's World in Community
Under the rule of our sovereign God, Carinya acknowledges the Gamilaroi people as the traditional custodians of the land on which the School is built.
As we engage as a community to discover a world made through Jesus for His glory, we recognise the continuing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to this land.
We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and commit ourselves to the ongoing journey of Reconciliation as we enjoy God’s grace to us through Jesus.
CARINYA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
25 BORONIA DRIVE
CALALA NSW 2340
+61 2 6762 0970
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Enjoying God’s World in Community
TERM 1 & 2 SPORT
GIBRALTAR RANGE NATIONAL PARK Highs and lows, ups and downs... Hills 2 4 8 9 10
Cross country, Athletics carnivals & more
TERM 3 CALENDAR
Find out what is happening in Term 3
WARATAH PROJECT
Veterans commemoration service
40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
Official anniversary day & celebration dinner
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Read about Grandparents Day 2024
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Debating, ice cream & solar cars
THE FUTURE AT CARINYA
Building upgrades & future projects
OUT AND ABOUT
Agriculture, work experience & more
SENIOR SCHOOL
Highlights from the Year 12 fundraiser
SCHOOL FUNDING
Ever wondered how school funding works?
LILLY PILLY PREP
Catch up on Term 1 & 2 at Prep
from the Principal
David Jones Principal
David Jones Principal
Enjoying
God’s World in Community
This term was particularly significant for Carinya as we celebrated our 40th birthday together. It was wonderful to gather all the students together and sing Happy Birthday to the school. I was surprised by the enthusiasm with which students sang and joined the celebration, which finished with students enjoy ing a piece of birthday cake. It was apparent that when you do something together as a community with the same purpose, there is a tangible feeling of joy that is shared. Dare I say it gives us a slice of what heaven will be like.
During the term, students took pleasure in many different activities, which will be displayed throughout this edition of our Connect Magazine. From sports carnivals to debating, career days, and fundraising, students enjoyed spending time together. The classroom and each learning activity help shape children as they learn to live and work together. In our 40th celebrations, I had the plea sure of catching up with many of our alumni. Many shared stories of how their time at Carinya had moulded them into the person they are today.
It is a shame to reflect on elements of our society that are causing a breakdown in the community we enjoy so much. In an age of expressive individualism, western culture tries to promote the individual as the sole factor in determining right and wrong. Expression becomes about performance rather than serving. This can be seen in the popularity of apps like TikTok. We less and less define ourselves by our relationships, which erodes the type of community that God calls us to live in.
As parents and teachers, we want to strengthen our school community as much as we can. We want to intentionally put children in situations where they are both challenged and find joy in their time with each other. The Bible is full of letters that were written to communities that were struggling. Through these words, we are constantly brought back to what really matters, including serving Christ and each other. We want to teach children to be compassionate, kind, forgiving, bearing one another’s burdens and sharpening one another’s minds through sharing thoughts and opinions.
As we move to the future, with many exciting projects underway, we look forward to protecting and nurturing the rich community where our children live and learn together. Please enjoy this edition of our Connect Magazine and take a moment to reflect on how precious our community is.
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love
and good
deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Hebrews 10:24-25
Term 1 & 2 Sport
Charles Bickersteth Sport Coordinator
Swimming Carnivals
As we find ourselves halfway through 2024, it’s a good time to take a moment and look back at the sports events and achievements of Terms 1 and 2. It’s been a busy couple of terms, filled with activities that have brought our school community together and highlighted our students’ enthusiasm and participation in sports.
This year, we made a significant change by moving our Year 5-12 swimming carnival from twilight to daytime. The goal was to encourage more students to participate, and it was great to see many students stepping up and taking part in the mega relays. The K-4 carnival continued to be a source of fun, with our youngest students experiencing their first off-campus event—a milestone we enjoy every year.
Cross Country and Athletics Carnivals
Every year, the Carinya Cross Country and Athletics Carnivals remain a highlight for many students, parents, and especially for me.
During Week 2 of Term 1, students from Year 2 to Year 12 took on the Carinya Cross Country Course. The day was filled with memorable moments, including an unexpected but amusing appearance by one of our resident cows, who briefly joined the race after escaping its paddock. It was a great day with many opportunities for building friendships in a Christ-centred community.
During Week 7 of Term 2, over two days, Primary and Secondary students showcased their skills and sportsmanship, enjoying a day out on the athletics track. It was great to have parents and carers attend and support the students throughout the day despite the cold weather.
Basketball
Our weekly basketball sessions are a favourite among students and parents alike. It’s not just about improving skills on the court but also about building camaraderie and community spirit. We’re grateful for the growing support and involvement of parents, whose assistance with the scoreboard has been invaluable.
Netball
Despite the chilly winter weather, our netball teams—both weekly and representative—have shown great commitment and determination. They have represented themselves and the school admirably by training and competing on all-weather courts.
As we look ahead to Term 3, we’re excited about its opportunities. With the foundation laid in Term 2, we’re ready to continue nurturing our students’ talents, fostering teamwork, and celebrating the joy of participation in sports and other activities. We appreciate the dedication and enthusiasm our students and staff show, and we look forward to building on these successes in the coming months.
Project
Veterans Commemoration Service
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
Six of our First Nations students, along with Mr Jones and Mrs Fotheringham, recently participated in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans Commemoration Service held at the Anzac Memorial. The students went to Sydney as part of an inaugural program to support regional students by participating in the commemoration service, which unites the community and recognises the service and sacrifice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander veterans.
The students met members of the organising committee, including Chair Mr Harry Allie, who served in the Air Force, and Mr Dave Williams, who served in the Navy. Guest speaker Squadron Leader Patricia Elliott also spoke with the students, sharing her experience as a currently serving member of the Air Force.
As part of the program, the students also undertook tours of the Anzac Memorial and the Australian Museum.
By Esther Fotheringham
Carinya Tamworth
1984 - 2024
40th Anniversary
Junior School
Peter Spence Head of Junior School
spencep@carinya.nsw.edu.au
Dates to remember...
Parent/Teacher Interviews (Yr K-6)
Tuesday 13th and Saturday 17th August
School Photos
Tuesday 27th August
On Friday 21st of June, around 550 guests visited Junior School for Grandparents Day. We wanted to honour grandparents and acknowledge the valuable insights and guidance older people bring our children.
While we have always intrinsically known the benefits of a close grandparent-grandchild bond, research has demonstrated that grandparents can play a valuable role in helping children develop better emotional regulation, leading to improved social and academic outcomes. Aside from those benefits, Grandparents Day also provides a great opportunity for children to create special memories with their Grandparents or family friends.
Many Grandparents were eager for the day to begin, coming early to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in the crisp morning air before the concert began.
For 40 years Carinya has taught children from a Christcentred perspective. Over those 40 years, our commitment to seeing the Lordship of Jesus declared over all of learning has not wavered. Our concert picked up that theme in a strong way. The Emu music creation of “Meet the King” became the main content behind the show. A couple of other songs added to the overall theme -Jesus is the King.
For around half an hour, guests enjoyed morning tea together on the lawn in front of the Performing Arts Centre. After this, Grandparents moved into the classroom to engage in various activities. These ranged from building model boats, and seeing whose could carry the heaviest load before sinking, to potting plants.The day was a great success, enjoyed by grandparents, children and teachers. Please turn over to page 14 and 15 for more photos of the day.
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.
Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others,as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
1 Peter 4:8-10
Middle School
Bron Larkin Head of Middle School
larkinb@carinya.nsw.edu.au
Dates to remember...
Year 6 & 9 WW1 Incursion
Tuesday 22rd July
Parent/Teacher Interviews (Yr K-6)
Tuesday 13th & Saturday 17th August
During Term 2, Carinya middle school students were immersed in a dynamic and enriching array of learning experiences. They engaged in activities that fostered growth, exploration, and collaboration, making the term a memorable one.
Carinya Debating Team
Carinya had not had a debating team for some time, but at the start of this year, Mr Scarborough revived the Carinya Debating Team. Despite debating being a new concept for many, we quickly assembled a group of enthusiastic students eager to learn and develop their debating skills. The team’s dedication and passion were evident as they embraced this new challenge.
Ice Cream Connoisseurs
Year 6 students embarked on a delightful journey into the world of ice cream making during Term 2. After mastering the basics, they were given the opportunity to create their own unique recipes. The culmination of their efforts was a series of pop-up stores where they shared their wonderful creations with teachers and fellow students. This hands-on project allowed them to combine creativity with practical skills in a fun and engaging way.
Renewable Energy Explorers
Year 8 students delved into the exciting field of renewable energy. They had lots of fun and challenged themselves by building and comparing battery-powered cars with solarpowered cars. Additionally, they explored the power of wind by attaching balloons to strings and observing the effects. Through these projects, they learned valuable lessons about perseverance and problem-solving, gaining a deeper understanding of scientific investigation and the practical applications of renewable energy.
These activities not only provided a platform for academic growth but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among the students. The shared experiences and the joy of learning together have strengthened the bonds within our school community, making Term 2 a truly special time at Carinya.
Parent/Teacher Interviews (Yr 7-12)
Tuesday 20th & Saturday 24th August
School Photos
Tuesday 27th August
For just as each of us has one body with many members, & these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Romans 12:4-5
Under Construction
Stephen Carter | Business Manager
In the past four months, Carinya Tamworth has received 225 enrolment enquiries, with most for the 2025 school year, and over 80 of those being for Primary years. This surge in interest is significant given the current enrolment of around 800 students.
Year 7 No Longer an Entry Point
Traditionally, Year 7 has been a key entry point, but rising demand for Primary years is shifting this trend. The anticipated 2025 Kindergarten intake will be the largest in Carinya’s history, indicating no additional Year 7 places will be available by the time these students progress.
A Growing Region Requires More School Places
With major housing developments in South Tamworth, the demand for Carinya places is expected to rise over the next decade. Consequently planning is underway for future projects to meet this growing demand.
Increasing Our Enrolment Cap
Carinya is seeking to increase its enrolment cap to 1,050 students. An application to Tamworth Regional Council, including an Environmental Effects Statement and a Traffic Impact Assessment, has received positive preliminary feedback.
Car Parking & Student Drop-Off/Pick-Up
In August 2024, construction will begin on a new car parking and student drop-off/pick-up facility to expand parking capacity and provide covered areas for students. This development will be conducted in accordance with the State Environmental Planning Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021. Without getting too technical, this State Policy enables educational establishments like Carinya to conduct a range of projects as exempt development as long as specific development standards are met. Over the past 12 months Carinya has received advice with regard to flood liable land, planning for bushfire protection, impacts on ecology, and civil design for stormwater management and pavement. We are now ready to build! Completion is expected by the 2025 school year.
New Junior School Block (Kindergarten to Year 2)
To accommodate growing Primary demand, a new Kindergarten to Year 2 facility is planned, with construction starting in Term 4 of this year and completion expected by Term 3 2025. This will add 10 classrooms, allowing all Primary years to have three classes each. Whilst not all of these classes will be full in 2025, the accelerated demand for places in Primary will see them fill up quickly over the coming years.
Construction 2025 to 2027
With these two significant projects underway, planning is proceeding for subsequent works to be completed throughout 2025, 2026 and 2027. Including a new Administration Building and renovations to four existing blocks, these projects will finalise the reorientation of the school toward the South of the site (the location of the new car park) and improve the size, function and quality of our existing indoor and outdoor spaces.
Whilst all of these works will cause disruptions, the coming years will also present many exciting changes as we endeavour to create a wonderful facility for the future (growing) generation of students at Carinya.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION T4 2024 TO T2 2025
UNDER CONSTRUCTION T3 2025 TO T4 2025
UNDER CONSTRUCTION T3 2024 TO T4 2024
Out and About
& Education Days, Apollo Engineering
Launch Pad & White Card Course
Senior School
Josh Davis Head of Senior School
davisj@carinya.nsw.edu.au
Dates to remember...
Year 12 Trial HSC Exams
Monday 29th July - Tuesday 6th August
Year 12 Excursion
Wednesday 7th - Saturday 10th August
With Trial HSC Examinations around the corner, stress levels are rising - you really have to feel for parents and teachers at this stage of the year! In all seriousness, for Year 12 students, the rigorous curriculum demands a deep understanding of a wide range of subjects, requiring extensive study and consistent effort. For some, they feel large amounts of pressure (whether from internal or external sources), which often results in high stress and anxiety levels. For other students, we often look on as parents and teachers and wish they were taking these last months of schooling a little more seriously. Either way, it is easy to get bogged down and despair at this stage of schooling.
Understanding that we are individuals created by God to serve Him, can help students to be grateful and not miss the many blessings that can come during this stage of life. Being deliberately selfless and serving others can help us do this and significantly help HSC students navigate what can be a difficult year. Engaging in acts of kindness and community service can reduce stress by shifting focus away from personal anxieties and toward the well-being of others. Helping others can create a supportive network, as students often find camaraderie and encouragement through service. As empathy and compassion develop, students can also enhance their interpersonal skills, making it easier to seek and offer support to their peers. It should not be a surprise that humans benefit from service as we were created by Jesus to serve Him and others.
One of the traditions for Year 12, under the theme of service, has been to organise a fundraiser. This year, funds were raised for Tri Freedom, an organisation dedicated to combating human trafficking and supporting survivors. The event included a variety of activities such as bake sales, sausage sizzles, putt-putt golf, and haircuts generously provided by 2340 Barber and ex-student Christian Fritze.
The fundraiser not only raised significant funds to aid Tri Freedom’s initiatives but it was a fun day where the students enjoyed each other’s company. There were many laughs as students entered the Senior Study in their costumes for the day. By contributing to a meaningful cause, they experienced firsthand the impact of their collective efforts, reinforcing the benefits of service and kindness.
Parent/Teacher Interviews (Yr 7-12)
Tuesday 20th & Saturday 24th August
Year 11 Young Drivers Expo
Tuesday 27th - Friday 30th August
School Photos
Tuesday 27th August
Year 11 Exams
Wednesday 18th - Thursday 26th September
Year 12 Farewell Assembly
Friday 27th September
Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
Philippians 2:1-2
School Funding
A closer look at how it works
Carinya receives income from three main sources
24%
2%
How does government funding work
School funding has two parts: a ‘base amount’ for each student and extra funding called ‘loadings’ for up to six types of disadvantage. The six types of disadvantage are disability, low English skills, parents’ educational level & employment, First Nations status, small school size, and remoteness. When you put the base amount and the loadings together, you have something most people have heard about -- the Schooling Resource Standard, or SRS. That’s the amount the school receives per child from the Government.
Who pays the SRS in each education sector
If your child is in a government school, the government alone pays the SRS. If your child is in a non-government school, the government pays only some of the base amount – based on parents’ income - and all of the disadvantaged funding.
There are a total of 1,245,000 Students in NSW Schools
Taxpayers fund the entire SRS
Taxpayers fund part of the SRS, Parents pay fees to cover the remaining cost
How does parent income determine the funding an independent school receives
The more parents earn, the less government funding is provided to Independent schools. Schools are required to provide information each year that the Government correlates with parent income tax data to determine the capacity of the parent body to contribute (i.e. the median parent income).
Non-government schools can set fees as low or as high as they wish. Fees have no bearing on the schools government funding entitlement. However, independent Schools with a high median parent income and lower funding generally have higher fees.
Why should non-government schools get any government funding at all
Non-government schools help State Governments fulfil their responsibility to educate every child at a reduced cost to taxpayers. Government funding helps lower the cost of non-government schools so parents can pay some of the cost for those 460,000 students. Without government funding, a significant proportion of those students would move to ‘free’ government schools, most of which are already full and where taxpayers would have to pay the full cost. Our public schools could not absorb another 100,000 students, let alone over 400,000 more. Most OECD countries provide public funding to their non-government schools, and some including Finland fully fund them.
Carinya vs the average Tamworth public school
Using the MySchool website you are able to access 2022 funding data and see that many independent schools are operating year on year with their combined funding and fee income per student being equal to the funding per student provided to government schools.
Operational efficiency at Carinya
Independent schools like Carinya have been motivated to keep operating costs to a minimum to survive. In the 1990s, many independent schools closed when costs were not managed well. Carinya was established to provide a choice for all families. Therefore, carefully managing costs to keep fees to a minimum has always been important.
The future of funding for Carinya
Over the past five years, the Government Funding received per student has increased relative to our school demographic. These increases have now come to an end as Carinya is assessed to be funded at the School Resource Standard.
From 2024 onward, funding will only increase relative to the Consumer Price Index (a measure of inflation). The problem is that education costs generally increase at 2% or 3% in excess of the Consumer Price Index. With costs increasing at a rate greater than government funding, Carinya will now need to turn to other initiatives. The options available are increasing enrolments, increasing fee income, finding efficiencies, or increasing donations.
Our efforts to meet the growing demand for places at Carinya, especially in Primary Schools, have the capacity to help in the short to medium term. However, further effort will likely be required, and to this end, the Board approved the reawakening of the Building Fund in 2024. Established in 1984 when Carinya began, the Building Fund was crucial to early development, with initial contributions financing building programs. Although Government Capital Grants and a portion of the annual fee income have supported recent building projects, Carinya is now actively seeking to bolster donations to the Building Fund.
Support Carinya’s Building Fund
Every donation, large or small, makes a difference by mitigating the annual increase in school fees. The Building Fund creates an opportunity for families who can afford more than the annual fee to contribute to their children’s education and the entire Carinya community. Contributions to the Carinya Christian Education Ltd Building Fund are tax-deductible. Past and present families and business organisations are welcome to contribute to the building fund to support a regional leader in Independent Christian schooling and to invest in the future of Christian education in New South Wales.
Donations are welcome via the QR code.
Stephen Carter Business Manager
Carinya School Tamwort h
Tamwor th Public Schools
Lilly Pilly Prep
Term 1 & 2 highlights
Gibraltar Range National Park
In Term 2, Year 10 Outdoor Ed set off on their longest excursion to date. Four days of hiking, swimming in waterfalls and building fires at Gibraltar Range National Park. Not to mention the “delicious” food prepared by the students each night.
The teachers agree that there were some incredible cooking processes... and not in a good way. Did you know that to cook pasta, it’s a good idea to boil the water first? And ideally, the water should cover the dried pasta. Anyway, the slow-cooked, crunchy pasta went down a treat.
It’s amazing how good food tastes after a full day of completing a World Heritage hike with your classmates.
