Reddam House Sydney Newsletter 8 December 2024

Reddam House Woollahra Week 9 8 December 2023

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

The end of an academic year means only one thing – all eyes are on the summer holidays, with long days spent lounging around pools and on the beach in the company of family and friends. There was certainly a celebratory mood throughout the Primary School this past week, and rightly so, as the students and their teachers have worked hard this year, and they deserve a thoroughly good break.

The Year 5s and 6s started off the week with a memorable Prizegiving ceremony on Monday. It was the perfect opportunity to congratulate the students for all their hard work but also to dream a bit with the Year 6s of the exciting opportunities which await them in high school. The Year 5s were also reminded that they will soon become the ‘big fish’ in the Primary School, and we look forward to seeing them bring energy and a caring approach to their leadership of the school next year.

The following day, the Year 5s had one last incursion to enjoy, while the Year 6s made the most of their visit to Luna Park to create memories with their classmates and teachers. All in all, it was the perfect way to round off their time in the Primary School and we trust that they will carry a warmth of recollection of many such moments with them as they step into the next chapter of their lives. We will certainly miss them, and we will continue to follow their progress with interest.

Wednesday’s Picnic Day made me think of the delightful K-2 production of ‘Winnie the Pooh’ and of how much Pooh and his friends would have enjoyed the moment. No doubt a large jar of honey would have been devoured and many happy songs sung. So too, all our year groups made the most of the last chance to be with their friends and teachers and to enjoy wrapping up the year in the best possible way.

The end of any year brings with it many different emotions. As already mentioned, there is the excited anticipation of the holidays and of time with family and friends. But there are also the inevitable goodbyes. In addition to the Year 6s, others in our special Reddam family will move on to new adventures and we wish each of them a fond farewell – and a big thank you for all that they have invested in the school. May the coming year bring them great joy.

No year in a school happens without a collective effort from all in the community. As always, I am enormously grateful for our incredible team of teachers and coaches, who pour their lives into those of their students. The individual care that they show is special indeed and I know that they are really proud of all that their students have achieved this year. I wish them a thoroughly good rest – they certainly deserve it.

Another group who deserve to put their feet up are our hard-working team of administrators, cleaning and support staff. They have laboured tirelessly to ensure that everything ha run smoothly this year and that our beautiful campus continues to look good. My sincere appreciation to each one of them.

I am always grateful to our committed and enthusiastic cohort of parents, caregivers and other family members, who supported their children at the many events which took place during the year – and that’s not to mention all their efforts expressed through studying, preparing speeches and writing essays.

We are grateful for your continued support, both for your child and for the school at large.

Finally, to each of our students – you worked hard and played hard. You brought your own unique individuality to school each day and brightened the corridors and classrooms with your joy. You are the school, and it was our delight to journey alongside you this year. Well done once again! May your break be amazing, with many happy moments along the way.

Before we all head off for the holidays, however, there are a few congratulations to be handed out to our students. Firstly, Eden Koulianos won the National Championships for APDA (Aus Physie & Dance) for the 6 Years age group on the weekend. She progressed from zone competitions last month before competing at the ICC on Saturday. A final of 14 competitors are picked from a group of 6-year-olds from around Aus to compete before places 1-6 are awarded. This is an exceptional achievement – well done, Eden!

Congratulations also go to the following students who competed in the White City Tennis Competition (Orange Ball 3). Max McLellan, Sam Pinski, Shepherd Smart, James Plaskett and Angus Corbett.

This weekend the Under 10 Reddam Rabbits will be playing in the Sixers Cricket League Grand Final.

These boys have had a sensational season, winning 7 out of 8 games, with a thrilling one run win to round out the regular season last Saturday. The Rabbits are playing in their second season of competitive cricket and are a team who truly love the game! Good luck to the following students as they compete against the RJCC Stars at Lower Cooper Park on Saturday morning. We wish you all the very best. Oisin Nohra-Hoft, Zac Choroomi , Isaac Edwards , Ishaan Hamieh , Joshua Lechem , Reuben Lehrer , James Lowenstein and Joshua Stesel. Their coach is Jonny Ress.

Have a fantastic holiday and to those who will celebrate special religious and cultural events in the coming weeks, may they be even more meaningful than in the past. We look forward to welcoming back those who will return in 2024, for another exciting, fulfilling year!

Dee Pitcairn

Principal

1 - Little Athletics Zone

2 - Reddam House Tennis

3 - Eden Koulianos won the National Championships for APDA (Aus Physie & Dance) for the 6 Years on the weekend.

4 - Reddam Rabbits - Oisin Nohra-Hoft, Zac Choroomi, Isaac Edwards, Ishaan Hamieh, Joshua Lechem, Reuben Lehrer, James Lowenstein, Joshua Stesel

Happy Birthday Reddam House would like to wish a very Happy Birthday to Oliver Neumann, Sabine Smith, Logan Hou, Julian Gren, Zoe Smythe, Lewis Ryou, Darcy Maclellan, Dalon Gruber, Justin Luo, Aish Khurram, Sebastian Wolfers, Leo Platkov, Madeleine Desouza, Marcus Hronis, Dylan Cugati, Elise Allen, Angelique Hertz-Dyon, Nicholas Fasol, Evan Butler

Sports Fixtures Sports Fixtures 9 December 2023

Basketball - Finals

Friday 8th December - Comets | Alexandria - 53 Maddox St Year 8 SPARKS vs Newtown Storm 6pm Ct 2 Year 10 SUNS vs SGHS Flames 5pm Ct 1

Saturday 9th December - Comets | Alexandria - 53 Maddox St Girls Year 6/7 TIMBERWOLVES vs Inner City Scorpions 1:05pm Ct 1 (Semi Final) - Possible GF @ 2:55pm (Perry Park Ct 3) Boys Year 10 HEAT vs Maccabi Rockets 2:55pm Ct 2 - Possible GF @ 4:45pm (Comets Ct 1)

Saturday 9th December - Perry Park | Alexandria - 53 Maddox St Boys Year 7 MAVERICKS vs Winner of Semi Final 12:10pm Ct 4 Year 8 JAZZ vs Reddam Thunder 2:55pm Ct 4 Year 8 WARRIORS vs Inner City Mustangs 12:10pm Ct 2 (Semi Final) - Possible GF @ 2pm Year 9 NETS vs Winner of Semi Final 2pm Ct 4 Year 9 THUNDER vs Reddam Jazz 2:55pm Ct 4

Cricket Reddam Ravens V RJCC Scorchers 8.00am Lower Cooper 1 Reddam Rabbits V RJCC U10 Stars 8.00am Lower Cooper 2 Reddam Roos V RJCC Renegades 3.00pm Lough Field 2

Sports Results Kindergarten We can’t believe it is already time to say farewell to our wonderful Kindergarten community. This last week was packed with fun end-of-year traditions and taking time to reflect on all we have achieved this year.

On Monday we completed our final swimming and ballet lessons as Kindergarteners – we are so proud of how much we have learned this term in the pool and on the stage.

On Wednesday we had a brilliant picnic day at Manhattan Super Bowl as a reward for all our hard work and dedication throughout the year. We got to have exciting games of bowling with all our friends and eat a delish lunch in the retro diner!

We are so grateful for all the memories we have made this year and all the valuable academic and social lessons we have learned. We wish the whole Kindergarten family a safe and happy school holidays!

Year 1 It is quite unbelievable how fast this term has flown by; we can’t believe it is the last week of the school year!

It is amazing to look back and reflect on how our Year Ones have grown, in so many ways this term.

In English they have gained maturity and confidence in their writing, happily using adjectives and adverbs, alliterations and rhyming words.

In Mathematics we have worked hard to understand and practise the basic four operations, shapes - 2D and 3D, time and the calendar.

History and Geography and Science this term was Foodtastic! All the children enjoyed learning where our food comes from, they loved the experiments we did, and it was so special to see the effort the children put into their news presentations.

Bowling Day was a fabulous celebration. These very special children are more than ready for Year 2.

Thank you, parents, from Ms Browne, Ms Gavin and Mrs Gross for all your support and for entrusting us with your gorgeous children.

Have a wonderful holiday and great new year.

Year 2 Our last newsletter item for the Class of Year 2, 2023. It is with pride we can say that these students are ready to move to Year 3. They have grown in maturity, have made new friends, new discoveries and have taken leaps and bounds in their academic, emotional and physical abilities.

Some great memories were made this year, and we would like to take the opportunity to reflect on these and share them with you.

Aria Algie: I met my teacher and I learnt about phrases with my class.

Asher Colquhoun: Dante came to Reddam and he became my friend quite fast.

Veronica Rodov: I learnt how to do multiplication and subtraction with my teacher.

Harry Teggins: When we went to the Field of Mars excursion, I learned that blue-tongue lizards must learn how to swim.

Avaleen Paffas: I love the positive comments that the teachers always give me on my work.

Poppy Chong-Briand: I love going on fun excursions with all my friends.

Benjamin Boyd: My highlight for the year was being Winnie the Pooh in our school musical.

Henry Stirk: I love working with Mrs Graham because she’s the best teacher for me.

Valentina Tesoriero: This was my favourite year because I learnt how to write neater and I learnt how to do times tables.

Miley Yuan: I learnt how to use the computer properly and how to go on different apps.

Douglas Min: I learnt to play touch footy at sport and different running techniques to run faster.

Jack Kogan: I learnt how to do proper chords on the bass xylophone.

The Year 2 teachers wish you all a lovely, safe and happy festive season. We hope all our current Year 2 students remember to visit us next year!

Year 3 As we approach the end of the school year, we want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey our Year 3 students have undertaken. It's with immense pride and joy that we share the achievements of our young learners who have successfully navigated through a year filled with growth, challenges, and exciting explorations.

This academic year has been a significant one for our Year 3 students as they transitioned to formal assessments, examinations, and cycle tests. Moving classrooms, being streamed, and taking on increased responsibilities were part of the learning curve, and we are delighted to witness the resilience and adaptability each child has demonstrated.

In the midst of these academic milestones, our students have embarked on a fascinating exploration of Australia. From delving into the diverse states and territories to discovering the capital cities and iconic landmarks, the classroom has been a hub of discovery and curiosity. We explored the intricacies of

Australia's climate and weather, exploring the impact of mountain ranges on local climates and the unique vegetation that adorns this vast continent.

The culmination of this exploration was a delightful project where our students had the opportunity to choose an area in Australia and design a home tailored to its climate, vegetation, and surroundings. This hands-on activity not only showcased their creativity but also integrated the knowledge gained throughout the year into a practical, real-world application.

As educators, it has been heartening to witness the enthusiasm with which our Year 3 students embraced these lessons. The integration of geographical and environmental studies not only expanded their academic horizons but also fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation for the world around them.

We extend our sincere gratitude to you, the parents, for your continuous support throughout this academic year. Your involvement in your child's education is invaluable, and together we have created a nurturing environment for learning and growth.

Year 4 Culinary Triumphs and Artful Oratory: A Celebration of Final Presentations!

As the semester draws to a close, we can't help but marvel at the incredible journey Year 4 students have undertaken across the curriculum. This week, more specifically, they mastered the art of public

speaking and culinary finesse. The culmination of their hard work was on display as they presented their final public speaking projects.

Students have spent the year honing their public speaking skills, from crafting engaging narratives to perfecting the art of persuasive communication. The final hurdle came in the form of mouth-watering recipes that showcased their oratory prowess and left everyone’s taste buds dancing with joy.

The variety of dishes presented was truly remarkable, spanning cultures and flavours that reflected the rich diversity within our school. From savoury to sweet, each student poured their creativity into the recipes, turning the classroom into a mini culinary paradise.

In the spirit of celebration, we would like to extend our congratulations to each student for their hard work, dedication, and the delightful feast they bestowed upon us. The final presentations were a testament to their growth, both as public speakers and culinary enthusiasts.

As we wrap up this semester, let's carry forward the lessons learned, the memories shared, and the friendships forged this year. It has been an absolute joy watching this Year 4 cohort flourish throughout the year. We wish you all a wonderful Christmas break and a very happy New Year.

Year 5/6 English We have come to the end of the 2023 academic year, and what a busy time it has been! We have had trips (the Jewish Museum), events (World Book Day) and regular lessons. We have made progress in many areas: new topics in both years, streamlined modules, cross-curricular activities and better examinations. We are proud of these and happy with your response to them. As a department we are always thinking about ways that we can make our subject more engaging, something that will make it more real-life for you. We look forward to additional exciting events next year.

As you reminisce about 2023, we hope that you enjoyed all that English had to offer. In you, we see broadened and inquisitive minds. We bid the Year 6 cohort farewell into middle school, and we express our best wishes to you at this new chapter in your lives. We welcome new Year 6s and Year 5s in 2024, and we hope to have a wonderful journey of teaching and learning with you.

To your parents, we express a heart-felt thank you to all the support and encouragement that has been passed on. We could not have done this without you.

To you, students, enjoy the timely opportunity to relax, reflect on the school year and think ahead to the next one. And, as you ease into the summer holidays, please remember that reading should be high on your agenda. There are many inspirational quotations about reading. Here are some of them: “There is no friend as loyal as a book.” Ernest Hemingway “You will learn most things by looking, but reading gives understanding. Reading will make you free.” Paul Rand “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.”Joseph Addison

A lot of the students at Reddam House are already avid readers and may have a list of their own, but below you will find some suggestions from the English Department: • “Honey & Me” by Meira Drazin • “The Wildy Unknown Myth of Apple & Dorothy” by Corey Ann Haydu• “Hidden Truths” by Elly Swartz• “Sardines” by Sashi Kaufman• “Peter and the Starcatchers” by Dave Berry • “Greenglass House” by Kate Milford• “The Van Gogh Deception” by Deron R. Hicks

Year 5 & 6 Science

As the academic year draws to a close, I wish to extend a heartfelt congratulations to all the Year 5 and 6 scientists who navigated the exciting realms of science with passion, curiosity, and dedication. It has been a year of discovery, innovation, and growth, and I am immensely proud of the incredible accomplishments of the students.

Throughout the year, the students have delved into the mysteries of the scientific universe, conducting experiments, unravelling complex theories, and embracing the joy of scientific inquiry. From biology to physics, chemistry to astronomy, each discipline has witnessed the enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity of our students.

Next year, students will develop their scientific knowledge even further and explore a different area of science. However, in the meantime, I hope all students have a fantastic summer break filled with relaxation, rejuvenation, and perhaps a sprinkle of scientific exploration!

Year 5 & 6 Maths

In their final Primary School mathematics lesson, the Year 6 students enjoyed an exciting excursion to Luna Park. This outing provided a thrilling experience and allowed the students to apply their mathematical skills and knowledge in a real-world setting.

One activity in their mathematical exploration was The Ranger Ride, a ride that rocks from side to side before executing a complete spin. Students were challenged to ponder the number of degrees encompassing a whole spin and were tasked with calculating the approximate height of the ranger when tilted at a 90-degree angle.

Adding to the mathematical intrigue was the Tango Train, sparking spirited debates among students. The initial direction of the Tango Train's travel became a point of contention, as did the inquiry into the number of revolutions per ride. Some students went above and beyond, determining the average length of each ride through their calculations.

On Coney Island, students investigated in which direction the Joy Wheel spun and reasoned why this ride had two queues. They looked at how many sectors made up the spinning wheel, what the size of the angle at the centre of each sector was and estimated the wheel's radius. With this information, students could calculate the area and the circumference of the ring using the value of the diameter.

Overall, this was a worthwhile, successful and pleasurable day for teachers and students.

We wish our mathematicians a safe, happy and well-deserved summer holiday. It has been a pleasure to work with them.

Music Performance

A very simple thank you is in order to all of our Music students. The year has been filled with countless performances and highlights, and your dedication to your instruments, your ensembles and your performance skills is truly heartwarming. We are so proud of all you have achieved in Music, and cannot wait to see what next year brings.

Year 3-4 Concert Band

As we approach the end of another incredible school year, we are thrilled to share the outstanding achievements of our Year 3-4 Concert Band. In Week 9 of Term 3, they graced us with a phenomenal performance of the "Eagle Summit March," and have really picked up the pace in Term 4. Our Year 4s are primed for the new challenges ahead in the Year 5-6 Concert Band, and our Year 3s are ready to take on a leadership role with the newcomers next year.

This year, these young musicians have made remarkable strides in their musical journey, and have really become a source of pride for Mr Kempton. It's hard to believe many of these students were beginners at the start of the year.

Looking forward to next year, we are excited that Ms Eckardt will take the reins of this ensemble, and we cannot wait to see the continued growth and success of next year's band. Congratulations to all the students for their hard work and passion, and best wishes for an exciting musical journey ahead!

Year 5-6 Keyboard Extensions

Mr Swingler has been hard at work with the Year 5-6 Keyboard Extensions ensemble. The class has been diligently focusing on the popular song 'Blinding Lights' by The Weekend. This song has been a top request from many students over the past few months. We've been having fun exploring sounds beyond the traditional piano as Blinding Lights requires tones from the synthesizer. Keyboard Extensions continues to be a fun and educational class for our students to learn modern music in a collaborative environment. Congratulations to all our students for their wonderful work over the course of the year.

Music

After an incredible year of Music lessons the Primary School Music students finished this week with some absolutely outstanding solo performances. Every term we love to hear what the students have been learning on their instruments; however, the standard of the performances this term was superb.

Across all of the year groups, the students were well prepared and were very excited to share their talent and hard work with their classmates. In addition to solo performances there was also time for a few last activities for the term. The Year 2 students really enjoyed learning one last song, ‘Button you must wonder’. In particular, they had a lot of fun playing the game that accompanies the song in which a student in the centre of the group closes their eyes and when the singing stops has to guess which student is holding the button. It has been an exceptional term and year, and we very much look forward to another year of fantastic music in 2024.

Art Department As the academic year concludes, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the students and the wider Reddam community for their unwavering support of the Arts at Reddam House Primary School.

Throughout the year the students have demonstrated exceptional creativity and knowledge, participating in both class activities as well as exhibitions and displays within and beyond the school community. They explored a range of diverse artistic concepts utilising a variety of media and materials.

Many of our students participated in creative and expressive competitions, showcasing the spirit of teamwork and accomplishment. This year's Creative and Cultural Arts Festival was another outstanding success that enhanced the student's understanding of Indigenous Art and Culture as well as of global artistic traditions and ideas.

The Art Department extends its gratitude to our talented students, supportive parents, and the entire school community for fostering a vibrant space for artistic growth. Here's to continued creative exploration in the upcoming academic year.

Wishing everyone a restful and rejuvenating holiday season.

Reddam House Art Competition