MISSING LINK
Term 1 2023
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
Congratulations to our students, staff and families for another great start to the Year. And, for the first time in 3 Years, no threat of COVID closing the school. We are still trying to be safe and take precautions because we have had a small number of cases. Luckily, none of this has stopped us getting on with lots of learning and activities as you will read in the rest of this terms Missing Link.
On a very positive note, we had a wonderful Excellence Assembly to celebrate 2022 and we published a special Missing Link to recognise the award winners. I would like to make a special mention about the work done by Ms Melissa Scerri and Mrs Janice Stuart, who won the Community Leadership Award for their coordination of the 60th Anniversary program. I would also like to encourage you to read the speech written by our 2022 School Dux, Andrew Doan, who showed us why he was a member of the NSW Debating Team.
Since that assembly we have had some serious work and some serious fun, with the swimming carnival, Year 7 Ambassador training, Year 9 Peer Mentor training, lots of sporting teams competing (and many winning), excursions, interesting work and engaging wellbeing programs. In particular students who are participating in the ‘RIOT’ (Resilience in our Teens) program to help them be more resilient and “willing to have a go” in challenging times. Parents received an email, at Parent/Teacher night, parents also received a full colour brochure explaining how they can help.
We have also had some challenging times with a small group of students in some Year groups not “coming back well” from the COVID Years. There are some gaps in learning and there are also gaps in some students understanding that they are responsible for their own safety and the safety of others.
As a result, as well as resilience (RIOT) training we are also focused on the 4R’s – we want to be respectful, responsible, restorative and resilient. We are doing lots of programs and working in new ways so our students become the best people they can be, do the best work they can do and achieve the best results they can.
Nowhere is this more important than in the senior school, with big increase in schoolbased traineeships and offers for university happening based on Year 10 and 11 RoSA grades. All of these opportunities require students to demonstrate self-regulation and high levels of social competency, and active citizenship.
We are continuing our work to ensure “student agency” and, at the same time, asking parentstoexpect highstandardsof personal and academic behaviour from our students and themselves.
For our ANZAC day commemoration on the last Wednesdayoftheterm,andinthe YearwhentheAboriginal Voice to Parliament referendum will be held, we recognised the service and sacrifice of the Aboriginal community in times of war.
This school has had a very positive reputation for many Years – our legacy depends on what our students do and how our families support us. Can I extend some particular thanks to our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, families and community. To go further, RHHS, like all government schools will spend the School Development
Day in Term 2 learning more about and understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and Aboriginal Education There are 57 students of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background at RHHS in 2023. It is one of our largest cultural groups.
I want to also thank our students and families of Islamic background for hosting our 4th Iftar on the last Tuesday of term. This has become a significant event for our school, made more so because it is organised by our own students.
Of course, we also recognised Easter as a special holiday in the Christian calendar. It makes us so proud to be part of such a dynamic culturally and linguistically diverse community where over 660 students speak a language other than English at home.
Finally, I would like to thank and say farewell to some very special staff.
First, to Mark Krawiarz who has been a member of our Art and TAS teams for almost 25 Years. Marks’ creativity, intellect and commitment has not only seen students do well in his classes. It has also meant that many of them are now employed in the Arts and related fields.
His ex-students are now influencing generations of others to entertheArtsandpursuetheirdreams.WehopeMark’snew direction, where he will pursue his own dreams, will bring himgreatjoyandsuccess.Hewillbemissedverymuchhere at RHHS.
So, we reach the end of the term. Can I say thank you again and wish all our families a safe and happy holiday break! Students return on Wednesday 26 April – to the Athletics carnival. Watch for our Facebook posts!
Christine Cawsey AM Principal
On a Sadder Note
Although we have had a very happy term, it is with great sadness that I write of the passing of two people who had a very special relationship with our school. Patrick Bourke ‘Paddy” (pictured below left) who was a 2022 Year 12 Graduate, sadly passed away on 18 February 2023.
Michael Dixon (pictured below right), who was a valued student of RHHS, sadly passed away in Term 1.
We will miss them both and extend our very deepest sympathies to their families and friends.
New Staff Members
One of the best features of RHHS is being able to invite exstudents to work with us as Student Learning Support Officers and Tutors. Andrew Doan and Bilal Shah (Year 12 2022 Graduates) will be supporting students in Advanced and Extension Mathematics in 2023.
Major Report on Vaping Released
Former Deputy Principal of Rooty Hill High School and Principal of Erskine Park High School, Brenda Quayle with Professor Smita Shah, principals and staff from the 7 schools involved in the research on vaping, discussing what little adults and students actually know and understand about vaping.
Eastern Creek Network Meeting – RHHS Coffee Truck
Principal’s and Deputy Principal’s from the 21 Eastern Creek Network Schools met at Rooty Hill High School on Tuesday 14 March 2023. They enjoyed being served at the Coffee Truck. The Rooty Hill High School VET students have demonstrated their skills all throughout Term 1.
Entrepreneurial Learning
Congratulations to Kate Kennerson and Kate Short who presented the school’s work in Entrepreneurial Learning to a major Department of Education conference in March 2023.
Teacher Accreditations
Congratulations to our teachers who received their accreditation in 2022 and thank you to their mentors.
UTS Conference
Senior Leaders, Zahra Almoaiel, Fatima Baaruud, Ucheme Ohiaeri and Vanessa Stuparu joined Ms Vuki and Ms Cawsey inJanuaryto speak with staff from UTS about diversity and cohesion for those living in the BCC government area.
Jim Anderson Scholarship Presentation
The Jim Anderson Memorial Leadership Scholarship is for undergraduate students who reside in the Blacktown LGA and have strong leadership skills.
We’reveryproudtoreport that threeofour Year 12students from the class of 2022 were awarded Jim Anderson scholarships at an award ceremony on the 16 March 2023.
These students are Joel Zahra, Alyse McCutcheon and Skye Lepua. Their citations for this ward speak to their involvement and commitment to the life of the school through their involvement as school leaders, sports and academic excellence. Joel, Alyse and Skye have used this scholarship to pursue a bachelor’s degree program at the University of Western Sydney. The school extends its best wishes to these students.
Learning Neighbourhood - Leadership in
action – written by Jason Miezis
ThankstoMinchinbury,EasternCreek,MtDruitt andRooty Hill Public School for organising a combined student leaders workshop yesterday, held at Minchinbury Public School. The day was filled with activities, discussions and games designed at exploring the intricate concept of ‘leadership’. In addition to the various activities, Christine Cawsey and four of her student leaders formed a panel, answering lots of hard-hitting questions about what it is like to be a leader. Congratulations to all students involved and a special thanks to Rebecca Webster for coordinating. Another excellent day for students in our network.
Farwell to Ken Fulham Signs
This term, we say goodbye to Ken Fulham who has been putting the gold lettering on our boards and signs by hand for more than 30 Years. That is why they look so good. Best wishes Ken for a healthy and happy retirement.
Iftar Celebrations
Congratulations to our senior students who organised Iftar 2023. Thankyou to all the friends and families for attending.
YEAR 7
Year Adviser Message
Year 7 have had an outstanding start to their high school journey. Year 7 had their first swimming carnival, with many students winning races and participating in novelty events with the grade, as well as experiencing their first Excellence Assembly as the audience. RIOT workshops taught the grade about resilience, Ambassador training built on students leadership skills, and all students did their personal best when completing NAPLAN exams. Peer Support was a highlight of this term, with Year 9 support students leading groups, developing teamwork and confidence, culminating in a Mini Olympics held in the last week of term where Year 7 showcased their skills of participation, enthusiasm and sportsmanship. Excellent work Year 7, keep it up!
Miss Elford Year 7 AdviserFirst Day
Year 7 has experienced very nice things during the first day. On the first day we went to the hall and got our new laptops. Although being shy, confused and worried we made new friends and learned more things, we got to meet new teachers, explore new places and more! At the end of the
first day, we had left behind our nervousness and worries and we grew to be more confident. The first day of high school was very fun for both Year 7 and the teachers.
Deputy Principal Assembly
During the Deputy Principal Assembly, Year 7 has taken their first look at what they can achieve and how what we have experienced throughout the term has helped us reach our personal best. Year 7 now know what we can improve on and what we want to do for the future. Year 7 have worked on their confidence in these new environments and have made sure to work extraordinarily hard to reach the goals that they set out to achieve during their first term of high school.
Swimming Carnival
During the swimming carnival we experienced many new things such as swimming in races, hanging out with the different Years groups, being around all the teachers and of course getting to know all of our fellow Year 7 students. This was such a great experience. We also had so much fun whenitwasourturntogoandplayinthenoveltypoolwhere we played a bunch of different mini games. The best thing to conclude our swimming carnival was the dress up competition.
pictures of specific things, which was a really good experience. Peer support allowed us to express ourselves more and feel more comfortable during tasks as well as get to know other people in our grade. I'm definitely doing peer support when I’minYear 9as Ibelieveitisafunexperience for all students involved.
Cross Country
The Year 7 students had their very first cross country at Rooty Hill. An extremely long course had to be run and not everyonecouldbewinners.Runningaroundthebottomoval going upto the top oval. Ofcourse, a few people weren’t the sportiest people and maybe walked the course or chose to PERSIST and give running the course a try so they could participatetothebestoftheirabilities.Thefuncrosscountry run left everyone tired and drinking every last drop of water from their water bottles!
Year 7 Ambassador Training
In the Year 7 Ambassador training we learnt about leadership and teamwork in order to be an Ambassador further in the term. We went outside and split up into groups to learn how to work with others and to get ourselves out of our comfort zones. We also did a training with Ms Cawsey teaching us about how to represent the school in a professional way, and how to use our voice effectively. Our awesome Year 7 advisor Miss Elford taught us about how to work in a team, and what to do if a student needed our help. As an ambassador I’m looking forward to how I can best serve the school.
RIOT Workshop (Resilience in our Teens)
During the RIOT Workshops, we did many new things. We wrote down all our worries on a piece of paper in groups. We all thought of stuff that worried us and stressed us. After we finished writing, one person from each group went to the circle around the bucket. The teacher told every person to say one thing that worries them. Each time one worry was said, the teacher would pour some water in the bucket. We also learnt how to calm ourselves down if we were worried with breathing techniques. This program helped me not worry about stuff.
Peer Support
Peer support was led by Year 9 students to help us get used to Rooty Hill High School. The leaders gave us activities andworksheetstofill out about what welove,want orthings that make us unique. During peer support, we were up against other peer support groups in a fun hunt in taking
LOTE
Written by Raina KongkonFor our Language assessment,wehad to write our own script, present in front of the class and introduce ourselves in Chinese. We all did so well! Everyone’s’ pronunciation was right, presentation skills were on point and some people even successfully memorised their scripts! The class was super supportive, too. Everyone cheered for people who got up to do their presentationandclapped whentheyfinished. Ithink it is safe to say that we all passed with flying colours!
YEAR 8
Year Adviser Message
Year 8 has been involved in many activities this term including Swimming Carnival, Cross Country, the Music Enrichment programs, Personalised Learning and RIOT workshops. As a Year group, I have witnessed contributions from students who have actively contributed to our community through the creation of artwork and resources for harmony day and being student ambassadors. At the excellence assembly multiple Year 8 students received awards forbeing outstanding in their fields and Year 8made up a large portion of the Team of the Year. Absolutely outstanding Term 1, Year 8!
Mr Crosilla Year 8 AdviserDeputy Principal’s Assembly
Written by Duaa SaeedAt the Deputy Principal’s assembly, many students in Year 8 achieved Merit awards. Parents, teachers, and students arrived to attend this assembly. Some students got called on stage to receive Significant Achievement awards, DP’s Most Improved and PERSIST awards. At the start of the assembly, we sang the national anthem, then students got called on stage to receive awards, and speeches were given by our Year Adviser, Deputy Principal (Ms Mattimore) and then lastly, the Year 8 Term 1 video was played in the assembly, showing photos and videos of all the events that took place in Term 1 such as Swimming Carnival, Cross Country, the RIOT workshop and many other things.
Excellence Assembly
Written by Duaa
SaeedThe Excellence Assembly was an assembly held to recognise student’ achievement and success throughout Rooty Hill High School. Parents who were invited got to watch their child/children receive an award for how excellent and successful they were during the Year. This assembly consisted of performances, speeches and students receiving awards. This made the excellent assembly a more amazing experience as students and parents got to watch performances such as people singing, playing the guitar and showing off their talents. After the excellence assembly award recipients as well as staff members and parents got to enjoy a yummy afternoon tea snack.
Swimming Carnival
Written
by Michael KhalilAt the swimming carnival, there are many things for people to participate in such as competitive races and fun novelty games during the day. The school walked to the Mount Druitt swimming pool ready for the day to begin. Throughout the entire day, each grade is given time in a small pool to play games such as a relay race. Also, people who are not in the water can cheer on their friends while they are racing. Throughout the day the canteen is open for people to buy lunch. It is a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone to participate in as a school.
Cross Country
Written by Jordan Vellawhole 2 laps, including me. I had a great time, passing through all the people walking. It was a great source of exercise. Excitement and a little bit of anxiety flowed through us all as we started the race. Several people were walking the course, talking with their peers. The cross country was a way for some people to show off their speed and stamina, these talented students became the Top 10 and are going into Zone. The cross country was extremely fun and we all enjoyed it.
YEAR 9
Year Adviser Message
Term 1 2023 will be the last Year of junior school for Year 9. This Year there will be many opportunities to celebrate and also begin preparing for their senior school journey. This term all Year 9 completed final NAPLAN examinations online with results being out later this Year All students showed a positive attitude and a quiet determination to complete 4 exams in 3 days. During Term 1, we welcomed 16 new students into the cohort.
Miss Short Year 9 Adviser
Peer Mentoring
Music Enrichment Program
Written by Ekaterina LapteffThe Music Enrichment Program is a great opportunity for talented students of our school to improve on their vocal abilities and instrumental talents. Our school has participated in many great performances such as PULSE Alive and School Spectacular, as of this program. Performances that have been held at this school have also been organised by the Music Enrichment Program, such as the CAPA showcase. Overall, the talented instrumentalists and vocalists have been working behind the scenes, practising songs and beautiful pieces of music in their spare time, and on Tuesdays from 3 pm to 4:30 pm, to bring you these harmonic performances.
Harmony Day Preparations
Written by Melis BilgicSeveral students in Rooty Hill High School chose to assist and help out for Harmony day. Lots of teamwork was portrayed during that time period. For example, collaborating and cooperating with one another during painting and decorating posters. The harmony day preparations consisted of collaborating with team members, lending help out to other teams and most importantly painting and decorating posters for harmony day activities. The students who had helped out with the Harmony Day preparations had demonstrated PERSIST Values.
RIOT Workshop (Resilience in our Teens)
Written
by William AllenWe were all brought into the hall with a bucket in the centre. We got to choose who we sat with on tables. There were different pieces of paper with different things on them. One of the teachers was telling us what it was about and why they were doing it. They were telling us about how to be resilient, how to try and control our emotions, lizard brain and anxiety. One person from each table went to the bucket and gave an example of what could give someone anxiety and poured water into the bucket. Then the teachers were saying that there are ways to stop your bucket (you) from overflowing. It was a great workshop and I learned a lot.
Over 50 Year 9 students were peer mentors to the incoming Year 7 cohort and ran 4 sessions to help Year 7 have a successful transition into High School. All peer mentors showed outstanding leadership skills and were able to deliver lessons on health, resiliency, and bullying. The program ended with a Mini Olympics.
Sport
There were a number of Year 9 students who represented the school and zone in several sports including swimming and rugby league. Several Year 9 students were members of the winning Mt Druitt Cup Rugby League Team. Term 2 there will be a loads more opportunities for students to represent the school. Students are encouraged to listen for assembly announcements and check the sport google classroom.
Fast Forward
20 Year 9 students wereinvited to be a part ofthe WSUFast Forward program. This is a 4-Year program. The program will allow students an opportunity to be visit the University, be a part of programs and increase entry opportunities to University.
RIOT Training
All Year 9 participated in RIOT (Resilience in Our Teens) training. The program aims to equip students with the tools to understand and deal with anxiety, build resilience and better cope with stress. All students will continue their training during PDHPE classes this Year.
YEAR 10
Year Adviser Message
Year 10 have continued to exhibit the school values of PERSIST during the first term of senior school. I am very proud of what we have achieved as a Year group so far and am veryexcitedtocontinueseeing Year 10growthroughout 2023.
Miss Pozoglou Year 10 AdviserExcellence Assembly
Year 10 once again had the opportunity to be rewarded for a Year of hard work in 2022. Students received recognition for Principal’s Awards, DUX and other special achievements. The assembly was held in week 3 of thisterm and it was excellent to see students celebrating each other’s achievements. As always, parents were invited to attend and see their children be presented with these prestigious awards. Well done to all students recognised and I hope we can keep striving for excellence in 2023.
Deputy Principal’s Assembly
Year 10 received recognition of their achievement inTerm 1 at the Deputy Principal’s Recognition Assembly. We were lucky enough to have some brilliant performances from Year 10musicstudentsforthe national anthem andasecond performance. We had over 50 students receive significant achievement awards and 5 students receive PERSIST awards.
ABCN Program
Many Year 10 students were selected for participation in programs run by ABCN for leadership. Students participated in excursions to the city throughout the term. The students worked extremely well, displaying the PERSIST values each time. I am very proud of Year 10 students willingness and enthusiasm to participate in programs with our partner agencies.
Swimming Carnival
Students participated in the swimming carnival at the start of the term. The participation and attendance from Year 10 this Year was excellent with one of our highest numbers of competitors as a Year group!
Time Zone Excursion
Year 10 students participated in an excursion to Time Zone in Week 10 of this term. Students were extremely well behaved and had a great time playing an hour of arcade games in the local community. We look forward to the opportunity to have more Year group excursions in 2023.
Year 10 Drama
The Year 10 Drama student have been developing a performance for The Riff Youth Theatre Festival. They will be performing the play they create at The Joan in Penrith in Term 2.
YEAR 11 Year Adviser Message
Year 11 students have begun the HSC journey. It’s a daunting task, the expectations are high, the assessments are challenging, but this Year group has always done their best and there is no better time than the present to continue that trend. Assessments pile up easily and can bring on a large
amount of stress so I implore Year 11 to heed this message: Don’t do it alone, don’t do it late, and don’t do it tired. Don’t do it alone.
Build relationships with your teachers, they are your biggest resourceofknowledge,feedbackandsupport.Afunctioning professional relationship with a mentor will be the cornerstone of any apprenticeship, degree or career. Work with your peers, you are all in this together. Make a study routine that involves meeting with your peers regularly, you’ll find it easier to let yourself down than it is to let your mates down. Make firm commitments to your friends and stick to them, show up for each other, help each other and build the routines now.
Communicate and tell your families about what you’ve learned, you might be surprised how much they are willing to listen. A conversation with a family member about what you learned in class is an important step to making sure you can put your ideas in a sequence and answer questionsabout them. Don’t do it late. Leaving things late causes chaos and stress. Sometimes stressful things happen, you owe it to yourself and the people you care about to be ready to be present in those moments, not to have half your mind worrying about the assignment due tomorrow.
Don’t doittired.Period0sarethenewest challengeforYear 11 and some students are having a lot of trouble adjusting to the early mornings. Get a good night’s sleep. Set three alarms on your phone (‘go to sleep’, ‘actually go to sleep’, and ‘no really get to sleep you have class tomorrow’). Remember any health professional will recommend that a teenager should get 10 hours sleep. I know many of you are trying to do it on 5 hours, that’s like doing a running race without one of your legs, or a boxing match with an arm tied behind your back. The world is brighter and more enjoyable when you’re really awake, so get the good night’s sleep to make that happen.
Congratulations on Term 1, your interim reports, and best wishes for the rest of the Preliminary Certificate.
Mr Hewitt Year 11 AdviserYEAR 12
Year Adviser Message
With only two terms left of Year 12 we just want to remind students to focus on their end goal. Why are they here and what do they hope to accomplish? Year 12 has continued to work hard and be positive. Whether it is University, TAFE, Apprenticeship, work or something else, stay focused on the goal. Thank you for another great term!
Ms Haigh and Miss Munzenberger Year 12 Adviser and HT Senior SchoolWSU Conference Day
This term, 20 students from Year 12 had the opportunity to attend the Western Sydney University Conference Day. The students took part in different seminars that related to their
future study. They also were given the chance to ask current and former students of WSU questions about scholarships, courses and early entry. Students enjoyed spending the day at Parramatta Campus, meeting other students interested in their same courses and hearing from current University students.
Year 12 Nursing (TAFE)
WrittenbyAminaMohammadi,MahekJanifandNicole Chua
TVET courses are a great way to delve into and build a pathway towards your dream career. Benefits of TVET courses include work experience/placement in real working environments, strengthen important skills, build relationships with people of similar interest and get a glimpse of the working environment. Plus, it counts as two units towards your Year 11 and Year 12 subjects. We have been so grateful to be offered a pathway which shows us the skills and expectationsrequiredandhelpsyouweightheprosandcons of a career to see if it is the right one for you. We expect to obtain a Certificate III in Human Services (NursinginAcute Care) as well as a First Aid certificate at the end of Year 12.
Year 12 Visual Arts
The Year 12 2023 Visual Arts students have made a solid start to their major works.
Swimming Carnival
This term, Year 12 took part in their last ever swimming carnival at Mount Druitt pools. This Year's theme was “Ocean Fantasy” and Year 12 turned out in some of the best costumes we have ever seen! Shoutout to some winners for best costumes, Jaanvi Singh, The Lifeguards, Elijah Jennings and Lillian Lolomanaia, Zahra Almoaiel and Dansia Gomes. The students took part in races, novelty games and general cheeringfor some outstanding athletes in the cohort. Special mention to Aaron Cazier who went on to break another record.
SECONDARY ABORIGINAL DANCE WORKSHOP
On the 21 February, Rooty Hill High School hosted the Secondary School Aboriginal dance workshop. 8 students from a range of Year groups attended and learned sacred choreography the enhanced their knowledge, skills and understanding of First Nations culture. Congratulations to Shaye Ryan, Aphril Cabban, Priya Muduliar, Mackenzie Chapple, Tamzyn Le Roux, Keharna Lever, Sam Scobie, Tristan Belan who took part in the program.
CAPA Artist of the Week Winners
Congratulations to our Term 1 ‘Artist of the Week’ winners
Year 7: Amelie Forshaw
Ella Partridge
Matilda Rusitovic
Sam Scobie
Catherine Yeng
Year 9: Anuel Atienza
Evelyn Bogas
Mali Coombes
Amy Gower
Luke Powell
Year11: Charliene Coulthard
Janice Hide
Year 12 Photo Day
This term was photo day, however, for Year 12 students it was a particularly special day as they had their group photo taken. Every Year, the graduating class take a series of large group photos. This Year the cohort took their “serious” and “funny” photo with the Principal, Ms. Cawsey, their deputy, Ms. Mattimore, Head Teacher Senior School, Miss Munzenberger, and their Year Adviser, Ms. Haigh. The students were able to spend time together as a Year group, taking individual photos with their friends and reminiscing on their time together.
PULSE ALIVE PERFORMANCE
In Term 1, a number of students were selected to participate in the NSW Pulse Alive Performance at Sydney Olympic Park. This was a state wide event which involved students from across 100 different schools in NSW. Our students
were involved in the Mass Choir and Mass Dance Groups and worked very hard during rehearsals. Their outstanding performance on the day was spectacular! Please congratulate our singers and dancers for their amazing performance and their effort. Our students have demonstrated the PERSIST values at all times throughout this journey representing Rooty Hill High School, we are very proud of them.
ANZAC Assembly
Written by Amity Darley, Senior Leader - DiversityThis Year, for ANZAC Day, we reflected as a school on the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Islander Peoples and their contribution to the Wars and military operations. Our school commemorated ANZAC Day with a whole school assembly in the main quad where students were able to embrace the memories of ANZACs both past and present, hear the Last Post, listen to a commemorative speech from alumni of Rooty Hill High School, Private Jennings 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment and pause for a minute’s silence.
We welcomed the Elders of our community and acknowledged their ongoing presence with our school. Students then further commemorated ANZAC Day by completing a lesson designed to highlight the Aboriginal and Torres Islander Peoples' experiences throughout both WWI and the subsequent Wars. We explored how our school community commemorates the legacy of the ANZACs by reflecting on the Aboriginal and Torres Islander Peoples contribution to WWI.
Students were asked to reflect on what they know about Aboriginal and Torres Islander People's contributions to WWI, whilst also developing a deeper understanding of their legacy and those of the ANZACs. The lesson also allowed for a deeper connection to our past servicemen and women and the roles they played throughout the wars. Students were able to commemorate the legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Islander Peoples by developing a deepunderstandingof theirexperiencesand contributionsto WWI.
Our students showed tremendous respect to our ANZACs and honoured their legacy through their participation in the commemoration. Lest We Forget
“For those who have fought for us, freedomhasatastethattheprotectedwill never know. And for those who have died and lost it, freedom has a taste that the protected have not yet come to appreciate”. Freedom is the virtue by which we as a nation and people have liberty to express and pursue life to the greatest lengths without limitations. The value and importance of independence and freedom are inherited to us, passed down through each generation. And those whotruly know the nature of freedom,understandthat it is paid and exchanged for a life that was willing and prepared to set aside their freedom, to ensure that yours endures.
Good morning to all the students, staff, and honoured guests here at Rooty Hill High School. It is an immense privilege to revisit this school and to have the opportunity to participate in the nation’s most sacred occasion. This month on the 25th of April, the nation comes together to remember and say thank you to all the men and women who have served and fought for the liberties and freedoms which preserve our democratic values and right to exercise our individual autonomy. We draw our attention towards the sacrifice and selflessness of the soldiers that were involved in Years of international conflict, who underwent extreme hardships through the thickness of war and continued to remain resilient in their ability to fight for their comrades. The sacrifice and dedication to the service of the country, for the people and to fellow soldiers; is the centrepiece why we commemorate the day, and it pays tribute to those who have fallen for us in the height of combat engagement.
There are many themes and ideas that surround ANZAC Day, and daringly I suggest that there would be all sorts of opinions of what the day represents for everyone here. Perhaps for some of you, this day may not be as prevalent in your life and may not have observed Anzac day quite much. And for others Anzac day is a time where you are grateful and appreciative of the servicemen and women who give up their livelihoods to serve the needs of you and your family. My encouragement for all of you sitting here today, is to spur some thought and questioning in your own minds as to what the day means for not only yourself, but also what it means for your friends, your family, for the country, for those that have served and are serving, as well as our neighbouring countries and global allies.
Written by Oscar Jennings – RHHS Alumni Class of 2018The history that undergirds Anzac Day is an essential element to why we commemorate and recognise the service of our men and women in uniform. The ideas of bravery, selflessness, comradery and inner fortitude, delineate towards the character and essence of the men who stormed the beach of Anzac Cove on the 25th of April 1915. 70,000 soldiers landed on Gallipoli, including 20,000 soldiers that servedwithintheAustralianandNewZealandarmedforces. The objective was to advance and clear through the Turkish defence and support Russia in manning and supplies in their effort to stop the German-axis alliance pushing to the west. Their plan for execution was to charge directly towards
enemy lines, but by the time the allies set foot on the sand, they were rinsed from fire that came from above. The heavy machine gun fire forced the allies to hit the dirt and crawl towards cover. To make the allies work more strenuous, their stood before them the towering hill feature that the Turks occupied from the top. The execution led to a long and weary stalemate between the allies and the Turks. The allies were dug in for eight months having withstood countless bombings and direct fire from their enemy who were secure and fortified. By the end of 1915, allied forces withdrew and evacuated from the Gallipoli Peninsula. The allies had suffered mass casualties with approximately 11,400 ANZAC’s killed and wounded. That was more than half of the amount that sailed and arrived on ANZAC Cove. Each soldier that had either survived or had fallen from the war, bore the true nature of an Australian and NewZealander. Their courage and resilience in the midst of a harsh and cruel conditions, is the focal point of why we remember and acknowledge them.
Years of our nation’s military history would eventually pass by, and we would learn quickly from previous engagements on ways to become more lethal and tactical in the battlespace. Our weapons were enhanced and our technology grew more sophisticated. New air and naval vehicles and assets were designed to function with greater durability and lethality on operations. Our soldiers were battle hardened and ready to fight and resist the pressures that our enemies would aim to press onto us. And yet amidst theevolvement ofourmilitary,thevaluesanddetermination that was displayed on that hill in 1915, has remained as the pillar and corner stone that every soldier in our nation’s history possess. The display of courage, the actions that reflect the attitudes of leadership, bravery and mateship and the call to serve their fellow Australian, were weaved and moulded into the soldiers that had trained and went abroad.
“Old Faithful”. It is the motto by which soldiers of the 3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment are indentured to service within the unit. It is a constant reminder for the officers, senior non-commissioned officers, and diggers within the Battalion, that our work and our attitude towards the work we do reflect our predecessors. The reputation and history of 3 RAR, is widely known amongst the rest of Army, and it by espousing the qualities of Service, Courage, Integrity, Teamwork and Excellence; that we ensure the discipline andcohesiontoachievethedesirable outcomes of any mission. Our history isnot only enshrined and honoured internally within the unit, but soldiers across our nation’s military and over the Years have heard of the bravery and self-sacrifice that 3 RAR has shown in countless operational theatres. The most notable battle that 3 RAR is credited for, is their involvement in the Battle of Kapyong on the 23rd and 24th of April 1951.
Over the span of the 23rd and 24th of April, the soldiers of 3 RAR withstood the onslaught of the Chinese communist forces in Korea. Over the span of 18 months, 3 RAR fought against the unimaginable odds of 467,000 enemy infantry supported by artillery and mortar fire. All the enemy’s main force and supporting assets projected their firepower
towards 3 RAR; but the Battalion repelled and kept the enemy at bay. There were moments within the battle where the enemy broke through and entered their defence. In turn, the Australians would revert to hand to hand and knife combat to kill the enemy that broke through.
The Dawn of the 24th of April, and the diggers were left with little food and water, as well as sleep deprivation and the lasts bits of ammunition left. The commanding officer of 3 RAR, anticipated that the next enemies attack would likely obliterate the whole position. And with the support from New-Zealand Artillery fire, 3 RAR repelled against the first wave of enemy forces approaching the line.
Throughout the morning and mid hours of the day, the communist forces kept coming by the masses. The Australians withdrew from the position, with the aid Artillery support impeding the enemies advance. Four Australians lost their lives in that phase. Australians arrived at the Middlesex regiment where they rested and recovered after their long-arduous journey. On ANZAC Day 1951, the Australians were given the full day to rest and spent the day beside their mates they fought with the day before.
The Battle of Kapyongtookthe lives of 32 Australians,with 59 wounded. The Battle is held up and is regarded as one of the most significant battles in the Korean War. The Diggers of 3 RAR as well as Canadian and US units, were presented with the U.S Presidential Unit Citation, for displaying extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy. 3 RAR would continue to train and be deployed to numerous other operational theatres to take part in major conflicts and humanitarian relief and aid. The Battalion is stacked with prestigious and significant honours and awards for their distinguish efforts and achievements in the battlefield.
The valour and bravery with which the diggers of 3 RAR exhibited during those extreme moments of life and death, are qualities of which the Army always seeks to equally demonstrate and fulfill. They are instilled into the fibre of every individual soldier in 3 RAR, including myself. And by listening and understanding what the men at Kapyong did, wecouldappreciatetheexpensive value offreedom and independence that they paid for with their life.
Based on this truth, I view ANZAC Day quite differently now than I did before I joined the army. Beforehand, my understanding of what the day represented only extended from knowing that my grandfather, Great-Grandfather and many other relatives had served in the military. And from this, I thought it was a time to reflect and be respectful for their efforts for undergoing hardships which were extreme and intense conditions amid war. As a soldier, it’s far more exciting and deeper than just saying thank you and a simple gesture of appreciation. I see ANZAC Day as a time to celebratewithfriendsandcomrades.It’satimetoremember and say thank you to the men and women who served before me.
I use this time to learn from the veterans and take upon the lessons that they’ve learnt in battle so that I can become
more proficient, more potent in my profession as a rifleman. It provokes a greater level of sympathy for their selfsacrifice and willingness to defend the country, whilst their family and friends remained here, away from the danger. And it’s a time to honour and respect the fallen and the forgotten. Those whose names and faces faded into the fog of war and have never since woken from the battlefield. Those who drew their last breath in hopes that freedom would prevail and win over tyranny. As we draw closer to the 25th of April, may each day pose itself to you a determination to question and spur all the ideas and themes that make ANZAC Day more significant and special in your lives.
Begin to listen and understand and search for the answers that surround the meaning and reasons to why we commemorate. You can find them by reading about the history of the ANZAC’s. The next time you’re scrolling on your phone, perhaps you can take a couple of minutes to watch a short clip of the history of our military’s involvement in Gallipoli, Belgium, France, Libya, North Africa, in Papua New Guinea, Korea, Vietnam, East Timor and even recent videos in Afghanistan and Iraq. I would strongly encourage everyone here to even reach out to a veteran, which there are plenty that live in our community. There are many returned soldiers within our community, who do not receive the recognition and acknowledgement for serving their country.
For a period in their lifetime, they were hard men; they were self-less,caring,ruthless,firmandheroesinthefaceofgreat evil. And now they are alone; left to their own devices to figure out the next steps in life. The only pieces of the military that they can cling to, are the bits and pieces of the memories they had. So let this be your duty from hereon in. Over the next few weeks that lead up to ANZAC Day, make time to understand more about why we remember and commemorate ANZAC day. Learn and understand the history of our military in its involvement in major conflicts and even attempt to reach out and extend your support and gratitude for our service personnel and ex-servicemen and women. It starts by you walking up to someone, shaking their hand, and saying ‘Thankyou’.
Lest We Forget.
CAREERS
Term 1 has been very busy in the Career’s office with many students embracing opportunities to broaden their careers and workplace learning knowledge
Some of our senior students have commenced TAFE courses in nursing, plumbing, real estate etc., while several others have taken up School-based Apprenticeships or Traineeships in Electrotechnology, Shop Fitting, Bricklaying & Commercial Cookery.
A group of our Year 10’s will commence their TAFE courses (Automotive, Hospitality, Animal Care, Signs and
Graphics etc.) in Term 2. As careers advisers we regularly receive information about various opportunities that we distribute to students through our Google Classroom platform. Parents can access this information through their child’s google account. Weekly careers news bulletins are posted to the ‘Careers (10-12) 2023’ Google Classroom while the ‘Careers Information (9-7) 2023’ contains lots of useful tips on resumes, interview skills, career quizzes etc. Please encourage your children to access this information to help them make informed career decisions.
Ms
Deborah Cunningham and Ms Jeanette CamillosCareers Advisers
SRC
Valentine’s Day
Written by Kalley Shields
During Week 4 and on 14th of February, the SRC team worked together to host 2023’s Valentine’s Day. This Year, the SRC sold raffle tickets and love letters that were delivered to the recipients. Students had a chance to send letters to whoever they wanted, the students writing them had a choice to stay anonymous or write their names. For the raffle, there were a total of 3 prizes to be won in the raffle. One prize was a box of American lollies which was very popular amongst the students. The winners’ names were drawn from a box by the SRC Chair during assembly.
LIBRARY
Written
by Mr ProctorNew Furniture and Library Refurbishment
Term 1has seensomephysical changesin ourschool library with the first half of our refurbishment completed. There is also a new prayer room that can be accessed in break times for students and teachers of all faiths.
Contemporary furniture and a new layout have seen the space evolve to suit the learning, teaching and wellbeing needs of students through flexible furniture that can be moved making the library a dynamic space.
Students also requested options for small group and private study which is being accommodated through the use of booths and study nooks. There will be further additions to this with individual study nooks. There are more changes to come which will enhance the experience of all students accessing our library space in terms of the physical layout and resources. Keep an eye out on the library website for changes and updates for scaffolds and supporting videos for research and writing.
Joshua Campbell Poetry Reading
Rooty Hill High School poet Joshua Campbell performed a reading and discussion of his first printed book entitled“I’m so human” this term in the library. His piece is a very personal poetry filled book that evokes deep emotions from his experience with mental health. Both his first and second are available from the display in the library. His book is also available to purchase on Amazon
Homework Centre
In 2023 support for all students is available via the Homework Centre run from the library. Teachers from a range of subject areas volunteer to support students and provide advice before and after school.
Although this is not a tutoring service, teachers can support students by reading and decoding assessment tasks, providing research help, proofreading and giving general feedback. The timetable shows that the Homework Centre is open from 8-8:30am in the mornings, and 3-4pm in the afternoons. The library is generally open from 7:30am to 4pm each day (apart from early Mondays) for student use.
GIFTED GATEWAYS NEWS
Term 1 saw the inaugural session of the Gifted Gateways program which has seen students from across our local primary schools: Eastern Creek, Mt Druitt, Minchinbury, and Rooty Hill PS, alongside Rooty Hill High School students working together on a range of extracurricular activities. Students have been working on projects in all the course areas.
Designing with Computers
Students have been focussing on computer-based design using software for laser cutting Perspex into a clock face. Students will have no trouble telling the time and utilising these skills in future industries. They are also using Lego to build robots for their next unit of work.
Maths Enrichment
Students have been looking into math fundamentals such as positiveandnegativeintegers,andmultiplicationprinciples, all with Pythagoras keeping a watchful eye.
Volleyball Skills Acquisition Program
The Volleyball Skills Acquisition Program (VSAP) created by Joel TreharneandUitime Levi recognisestheimportance of providing Year 5 and 6 students an education that allows young student-athletes to further develop their knowledge and skills in volleyball. Students also develop transferable skills of communication, teamwork, leadership, and resilience through a rigorous after-school volleyball training program with core values that are based on developing students who can contribute positively to society. To maintaintheirposition in the program, studentsmust uphold a high standard in their behaviour, effort and commitment both in school and within VSAP.
Dance
Students have been practicing safe dance, body composition, simple stretch techniques such as front and side kicks and turns. Students have started the team dance routine using some of the contemporary and ballet techniques. There is still room for more students - so if you are a dancer, please contact us.
Pacific Partnership
Students have been creating a themed learning space and team building. A lot of fun music and cultural learning as well as unique food experiences. Students will connect with a school in Fiji soon
Visual Arts and Design
Students have been creating artworks that have a personal theme using printing and colourful palettes. Their work is being curated by Ms Gatt to appear in a showcase later in the Year
Forensic Science
Students have been building their skills to investigate crime scenes using scientific methods of analysis including fingerprint identification.
Gaming and Esports
Students have been investigating gaming theory and game play through Minecraft, Super Smash Bros and theory activities. Game on!
Exciting Writing
This term in Exciting Writing students have been given the opportunity to grow and develop their creating thinking skills, flexing their capabilities to draw upon language, structure, grammar, and their own life experiences to analyse and create wonderfully expressive and personal poetry. A big thank you to all the students and staff who have been participating in the program and making it a success. We look forward to the program starting up again in Term 2 from Wednesday, Week 2, 3/5/23.
Students with 100% Attendance in Term 1
The following students have been recognised with a Significant Achievement Award this term for achieving 100% attendance.
Year 7:
Melody Martin
Natasha Ah Lam Z'ev Miranda
Patricia Amson
James Aoun
Tristan Belan
Tanmay Bhatt
Amelie Bogaz
Jacob Brace
Elaina Bramley
Chase Bugeja
Aizel Cellona
Jacy De Leon Mercado
Ethan Dillon
Mataiah Mitchell Meafou
Marybell Murad
Alexis Naidu
Faith Nucom
Karla O'Neill
Usu Ohi
Lialeti Oto
Cayden Parsons
Anjani Patel
Nishi Patel
Khang Phan
Kyle Duran Thivain Polwaththa Gallage
Amira Elia Anthony Reyes
Ashna Gandhi Muzamale Sadiqi
Ethan Gao Cierra Saipaia
Noah Germain Arshpreet Sakhala
Aalia Gloria Kody Sardis
Riya Gounder
Kylee Sarmiento
Levi Gray Sam Scobie
Nathan Metua Gray
Jacyinta Hanson
Ali Hashimi
Farrokh Hussaini
Nargis Hussaini
Jacob Khalil
Jesnoor Khehra
Ashley Kilroy
Raina Kongkon
Mercy Lalaga
Sophia Lang
Tamzyn Le Roux
Year 8:
Aaron Acosta
Tala Ah Lam
Hussain Ajmi
Shahad Al Nemer
Deziah Asalemo
Chris Baluyot
Serena Bingas
Isabella Brooke
Noah Camilleri
Mark Catalbas
Tristan Catalbas
Khaila Chavaria
Hannah Collisson
Ecrin Diler
Aeden Dinglasan
Omar El-omari
Angel Euese
Gregory Fuaivaa
Jacob Gale
Chloe Gamsby
Evan Gao
Raiyan Huda
Techin Kesboot
Michael Khalil
Arnav Kumar
Ekaterina Lapteff
Year 9:
Anuel Mussolini Atienza
Tyler-Jake Beath
Malini Siliva
Noah Sinnett
Xavier Tahana
Ariella Tasi
Mosese Valu
Leviniah Vatikani
Catherine Veng
Zayne Villanueva
Miguel Villena
Amelie Whiddon
Melissa Yang
Fawad Yousuf
Anthony Le
Julian Lintag
Jamielle Lopez
Colin Malsi
Callum Midson-Mould
Hayley Moore
Gabrielle Morales
Daveleen Mulbah
Mitch Neich
Christopher Norton
Darrel Nucom
Leo Ohi
Alecia Ostric
Steven Parmar
Elijah Ponce
Brayden Portelli
Juan Gabriel Pugosa
Alfred Ramos
Clarissa Randell
Miguel Reyes
Duaa Saeed
Jasmine Santiago
Lillyarna Suitupe
Memphis Tinao
Jordan Vella
Jeeya Gawai
Lachlan Gillett
Eli Haynes-McLean
Asher Hussain
Firaba Hussaini
Manamo'ui Ikamanu
Daniel Khalil
Rameez Khan
Year 10:
Daniel Ademovic
Henrietta Ah Lam
Hidayah Amjad
Christopher Aoun
Ramon Ayoub
Enayah Bhatti
Billy Bicol
Zachary Boyd
Sienna Briffa
Victoria Brockway
Abigail Camat
Zander Cassar
Jayden Chua
Gabriella Creswell
Vincent Delos Reyes
Athiei Deng
Joshua Dillon
Rami El-omari
Alyssa Flanagan-Rogers
Miggy Ganzon
Rebecca Gao
Ava Gatt
Zakir Gloria
Lilley Gotts
Harlem Grant-Cairns
Reniel Guzman
Sautualasi Heron
Faridoon Hussaini
Ashmeet Parmar
Vianca Pelayo
Grace Pham
Tiana Ramos
Jimmy Santiago
Ma Jacqueline Sinclair
Aden Tran
Jovan Tukuitonga
Kapishay Lal
Tyarn Lees
Savanah Leu
Matthew Lim
Dylan Loughton
Vannah Lundahan
Georgia McAndrew
Adriel John Mendoza
Priya Muduliar
Awais Mushtaq
Brock Neich
Michael Ner
Rosaleah Paulo
Paolo Policarpio
Levi Pont
Georgia Quillano
Syed Fazal Mustafa Rizvi
Afham Saleem
Divine Sang-Yum
Ceylin Sengul
Kalley Shields
Shaun Siliva
Prince Sta Maria
Emily Stephenson
Duc Hieu Tran
Duc Nghia Tran
Phoenix Ussher-Jackson
Angelique Vinensig
Elisha Ieremia Brionne Vulimaibau
Vivienne Jagoring
Cyrus Knott
Navraj Kochhar
Year 11:
Halle Ademovic
Paul-Kilifi Ah Lam
Madiha Amjad
Nicole Aoun
Willow Ayoub
Felicity Bhatti
Aphril Bicol
Gerrammy Boyd
James Briffa
Brayden Brockway
Shawq Camat
Riley Cassar
Mikayla Chua
Maria Creswell
Freshta Delos Reyes
Zena Deng
Jassjot Dillon
Mikayla El-omari
Jeremy Flanagan-Rogers
Chelsea Ganzon
Year 12:
Justine Ademovic
Samuel Apilado
Fatima Baaruud
James Whiddon
Emily Xian
Tristan Gao
Sabika Gatt
Christian Malsi
Ryan Gloria
Shakira Gotts
Nilofar Nabizadah
Kelvin Grant-Cairns
Daniel Guzman
Aaron Heron
Brent Hussaini
Alliyah Ieremia
Jack Jagoring
Adam Knott
Edrea Kochhar
Dilara Lal
Sahiba Lees
Farah Leu
Um-e-Farwah Lim
Dominic Loughton
Kiara Lundahan
Emma McAndrew
Elijah Jennings
Chad Jones-Singleton
Jemma McGregor
Anna Lockey
Mohammad Maliki
Jack Bryce Riley Marshall
Rouba Chandab
Aneesha Chandra
Amelia Ektoros
Rayyaan Mohammed
Jordan Moodie
Benjimen Moore
Khalia Evagelia Daniel Myah Nguyen
Kasak Gautam
Primrose Ohi
Paige Cassar
Reign Dimayuga
Dansia Gomes
Mischa Howson
Veronica Ieremia
Brock Jarrett
Blake Puckeridge
Madison Puckeridge
Jaden Ramos
Emre Selvi
Janiqua Siloi
Litia Tofilau
Year 7
Mariam Abdelmaksoud
Aaliyah Acosta
Ehan Ahmad
John Jr Alejandro
Janus Alonzo
Tristan Belan
Gurpreet Singh Bhamra
Marie Carnay
Angelica Castro
Aizel Cellona
Vicky Dinh
Amelie Foreshew
Ashna Gandhi
Ethan Gao
Riya Gounder
Adil Hameed
Hannah Hughes
Farrokh Hussaini
Syed Khawaja Imaduddin
Nevaeh-Maree Kake
Jesnoor Khehra
Raina Kongkon
Tamzyn Le Roux
Malik Maaz
Melody Martin
Eliana Mascarenas
Mataiah Mitchell Meafou
Azlan Mohammed
Ella Partridge
Khang Phan
Harley Pittman
Atharv Prasad
Brooklyn Rogers
Matilda Rusitovic
Hamid Sadeqi
Arshpreet Sakhala
Sam Scobie
Kushala Singh
Riley Stehlin
Xavier Tahana
Sienna Vaiusu
Catherine Veng
Miguel Villena
Amelie Whiddon
Ella Williams
Melissa Yang
Fawad Yousuf
Year 8
Khaila Chavaria
Alivia Chojnacki
Humzah Hussain
Christopher Norton
Christina Ofisa
Ava Sscobie
Leigh Simmons
Lillyarna Suitupe
Papatani Taufoou
Timothy Tumbaga
