MISSING LINK
Term 4 2025
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
As we come to the end of this year that recognises that a quarter of this century is over, I want to extend thanks to everyone - staff, students and the community-for another wonderful year.
As you look back over this term in the Missing Link you will see the achievements of so many students. You will see the success of programs like AFL Indigenous Academy, SALSA Youth Voices, Volleyball, Learning Neighbourhood programs including Milkshakes and Monet, Gifted Gateway and Chess on the Hill. You will see the wonderful Art works from Year 12 and the rest of the school. You will read about year-based programs, the Orientation for Year 7 2026, the MADD concerts, Schools Spectacular and so much more. I want to congratulate the 467 students who represented the school at zone, regional, CHS or national sports. I want to congratulate our girls AFL team for winning the GWS Amanda Farrugia Cup. And I want to celebrate the HAKA Warriors team who won the PCYC trophy for the best school again in 2025.
If you have been following the school's Facebook page and website, you will have seen hundreds of students engaged with their learning and creating stories about their journey through high school.
When you read further you will see the Presentation addresses for Years 7-11 and I want to acknowledge every student in Years 10 and 11 who received their RoSA this term. I also want to acknowledge the highest number of students with GPAs over 4.0 in recent years. In Year 10 alone there were over 40 students who achieved these results.
I want to thank the staff. It has been a year of highlights and strong professional work.
Congratulations to Uitime Levi for winning the NSW School Sport Unit award for the 'Leadership in Female Sporting Initiatives' award. In a year where all schools have focused on High Performance and Gifted Education, our school has become truly elite in female sporting competition, opportunity and winning outcomes.
It is always exciting at this time of the year to welcome staff who will join us in 2026, and it is also a sad time when we farewell staff who have worked with us as they move to other schools and, in some cases, move to take leave and retire.
Thank you and best wishes to Shauna Pollard (2009), Kate Kennerson (2009) and Renee Tapuska (2008)
And finally, congratulations and welcome to Melanie Douglas in her new role as the third Deputy Principal in our school.
In 2026 she will take a special lead role with Year 7 and Year 10. Thank you to Conny Mattimore and Thelma Vuki who have also provided very strong leadership along with all the Head Teachers as we continue to innovative and create on behalf of our students. Our staff make a huge commitment to this school and community, and we are so proud of their work.
Please enjoy a safe and happy holiday. Best wishes for the New Year in 2026. We will see all students here on Monday 2 February 2026 - Week A.
Christine Cawsey AM
Principal
Principals Address to Assemblies (Years 7 – 10)
Over the last few weeks, staff and students have spent time looking at evidence about our school and celebrating the many awards, successful programs and evidence of what we are doing. This year the school, school programs, school teams and individual students and staff have won many awards and next Thursday (18 December) we look forward toseeingour2025HSCresults,knowinghowhardeveryone has worked towards getting the best results we can.
On Tuesday this week, our Head Teachers shared the grades andgradepointaveragesforeachyeargroupineachsubject. I am proud that our results show ongoing progress and improvement with a higher number of students receiving Grade C or better and our highest ever number of students with a grade point average over 4.0. Well done to those students who have done their best. At this school our expectations are high, and we expect each student to do his or her best, not just in academic studies but in all areas of school life.
Lessons from Ivan Cleary’s Not Everything Counts but Everything Matters
Today, Iwant to take a fewminutes to share some important ideas from Ivan Cleary’s book, Not Everything Counts but Everything Matters. Ivan is a coach and leader who has learned a lot about how mindset, effort, resilience, and leadership come together not just in sport but in everyday life, including school.
That phrase, “Not everything counts but everything matters,” is really powerful. It reminds us that while not every single moment will change the outcome we want, every choice we make and every effort we put in shapes the person we’re becoming. Sometimes things might feel unfair or hard, but how we respond that’s what truly makes a difference.
Focus on What You Can Control
One of the best pieces of advice Ivan gives is to concentrate on what’s within your control. At school, you might not control what’s on the test or the speed of the lesson, but you do control your preparation, your attitude, and your effort. Showing up ready, paying attention in class, asking questions, doing your homework those are things you can choose every day.
Build Resilience
We all face setbacks. We all have reasons that explain our journey. Maybe you didn’t get the mark you wanted or found a topic tricky. That’s okay. Resilience means not giving up, not making excuses but learning from those moments and trying again. Mistakes and challenges are part of growing and one of themost important things is to keep going.
Everyone Can Lead
Leadership isn’t just for captains or principals. Each of you can be a leader by showing respect, responsibility, and kindness every day. Helping a friend understand a lesson or encouraging others in group work those are leadership actions that matter.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Sometimeswethinksuccessmeansgiantleaps,butit’soften about the small, steady steps. Reading a little each day, revising notes regularly, or improving one skill gradually will add up to real progress.
The Importance of Culture
The culture in our classroom and school shapes how we feel and how we work together. We are #TeamRooty Hill and we live our values – PERSIST-each day. When we demonstrate culture of respect, effort, and support, it lifts everyone up and creates a positive environment where success is possible for all.
Be True to Yourself
Remember, “You do you.” We all learn and grow in different ways. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own strengths and improvements. Celebrate your unique journey and keep building on it.
Understand the Price of Success
Success requires hard work and sometimes sacrifice. It might mean giving up some free time to focus on study or training, but that effort pays off in the long run. Knowing this helps keep us motivated when things get tough. Ivan says that the great players always do their best, they train relentlessly, and they put the team first.
Just Do It Don’t Overthink
If you ever feel stuck or overwhelmed by schoolwork, remember Ivan’s advice: just take the first step. Start by writing one sentence for your essay or reviewing one maths problem. Taking action builds momentum.
In sport, Ivan talks about how athletes practice so much that their skills become second nature. This is called flow or fluency when you can perform smoothly without overthinking. The same happens in school: the more you practise study routines and skills, the easier they become. This confidence helps you perform better under pressure.
Every One of You Matters
Whether in a team, a classroom, or a group project, everyone’s contribution matters. When each person brings their best effort, it lifts the whole group to success.
In summary, Ivan Cleary’s words remind us that while not everything will directly change our path, everything we do matters.
Your mindset, your resilience, your readiness to be part of a team and lead, and your effort in small daily actions have all shaped your journey. In rugby league, like any sport, winning and doing a personal best are the goals. Ivan Cleary’s Panthers set the standard that others now follow in pursuing excellence.
At this school, we ask: Have you done your best and next year, Excellence will be our focus value.
I hope you are proud of how far you have come this year. I hope you have a chance to thank your teachers, and I hope you enjoy a safe and happy holiday.
Christine Cawsey AM Principal
DEPUTY PRINCPAL’S MESSAGE
Melanie Douglas - Year 9 2025, our future Year 7 students & Professional Practice
As we come to the end of 2025, I would like to reflect on two groups who have been central to our work this year, our Year 9 students of 2025, and our Year 6 students who will join us in Year 7 in 2026. This also marks my first term as Deputy Principal at Rooty Hill High School, and my first contribution to Missing Link in this role, making it a particularly meaningful opportunity to reflect on the strength of our school community.
While these cohorts are at different points in their schooling journey, both have benefited from a strong focus on transition, early intervention and connection, and this final term has highlighted just how important that work has been.
Year 9 – Growth, Choice & Readiness
For our Year 9 students, 2025 has been a year of significant growth. This cohort has navigated increased expectations, greater independence and more complex learning demands, and this final term has clearly shown their readiness for the next stage of high school.
In my end-of-year address to Year 9, I spoke with students about the ideathat while wedo not getto choose our starting point in life, we always get to choose what happens next. Students were encouraged to reflect on how resilience, effort and everyday decisions shape who they become. The message was clear: their past does not define their future, but their choices do.
Students were challenged to reflect honestly on their achievements, successes, challenges and goals as they prepare to step into Year 10. This reflection was not about perfection, but about recognising growth, learning from setbacks, choosing totry again and taking greater ownership of learning, behaviour and relationships. It was a powerful moment that captured how far this cohort has come in 2025 and affirmed that they are ready for the increased responsibility of the senior years.
This growthhasalso been reflectedin the way studentshave consistently demonstrated our PERSIST values throughout Term 4. I would like to congratulate the Year 9 recipients of the Term 4 2025 PERSIST Awards: Von Casuco, Ali Hashimi, Marybell Murad, Jakin Ruelu and Hayze Fualau. I also acknowledge the recipients of the Deputy Principal’s Most Improved Award, Margaret Wilson and Riley Stehlin, whose growth this year has been marked by maturity, resilience and persistence.
Across theterm,Year9 studentshavedemonstrated astrong commitmenttopositivebehaviourandengagement.InTerm 4 alone, the cohort received 958 Merit Awards and 437 Significant Achievement Awards, reflecting the effort, consistency and pride students have shown right through to the end of the year.
Welcoming Year 7 2026 – Building Belonging Early
Alongside this, we have had the privilege of getting to know our future Year 7 students for 2026 through early intervention programs, orientation days, gala days and our enrolment evening. These experiences are designed to reduce anxiety, build familiarity and ensure that students start high school feeling confident, prepared and supported. The enthusiasm and curiosity shown by students and families throughout these events has been a highlight of the year.
Early intervention has been a key strength in supporting this transition, and I would like to acknowledge Ms Megan Varley and the Learning Support Team for their work in identifying and supporting students early, ensuring smoother transitions and stronger foundations for learning and wellbeing.
Professional Learning & Partnerships
A further highlight of 2025 has been the strong focus on professional learning andteacher development at RootyHill High School. I would like to thank Ms Nellie Harb, Head Teacher Teaching and Learning, for her leadership of the Professional Practice Mentor (PPM) team and for supporting hers and their support of 10 beginning and new teachers through the Beginning Teacher Program this year.
I also acknowledge Ms Amna Rashid, our Practicum Coordinator, for her outstanding work coordinating professional experience placements. In 2025, Rooty Hill High School hosted 27 teaching practicums and 5 observation practicums, 32 in total. I would like to commend our staff for always being so accommodating, generous and supportive of our pre-service teachers, ensuring they feel welcomed and well supported as they develop their practice.
This year also marked an important milestone as we established new partnerships with TAFE NSW and the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE), further strengthening our connections with external providers and expanding pathways for both staff development and future workforce opportunities.
Acknowledgements
I would like to sincerely thank the staff who have played a key role in supporting both Year 9 and our incoming Year 7 cohort this year. In particular, I acknowledge Ms Daynah Elford, Year Adviser for Year 9, and Mr Jason MobbsGreen, Year Adviser for Year 6 into 7, for their leadership, care and commitment to student transition and wellbeing. I also thank Mrs Sarah Andrews, Head Teacher Junior School, and the Junior Wellbeing Team for the strong structures and consistent support they provide to students and year advisers particularly during this final term.
Looking Ahead
As we close out 2025, these two cohorts remind us of the importance of strong transitions whether it is supporting Year 9 students as they step into greater responsibility or welcoming our future Year 7s as they begin their high school journey.
Iwouldliketothankourparentsandcarersfortheirongoing trust and partnership, and most importantly commend our students for the way they have engaged, participated and embraced the opportunities provided. I look forward to continuing this work into 2026 and to sharing future reflections with our community through Missing Link.
We look forward to welcoming our Year 7 students in 2026 and supporting our Year 9 cohort as they continue into Year 10, confident, connected and ready for what comes next.
Melanie Douglas, Deputy Principal
DEPUTY PRINCPAL’S MESSAGE
Conny Mattimore
As we reach the end of Term 4, I am incredibly proud of the progress and achievements of our Years 8, 10 and 12 students. This term has highlighted the strength of our school community, the determination of our young people, and the shared commitment of staff, students and families.
Across all the year groups I supervise, we have seen improved academic achievement and a noticeable reduction in negative behaviours. Students have shown maturity, focus, and a genuine desire to succeed. Many are taking greater responsibility for their own learning and choices, supported by the continued implementation of RIOT training, which has helped build confidence, resilience, and positive conflict-resolution skills.
Term 4 was also full of opportunities for students to engage beyond the classroom.
• Year 12 celebrated their journey with a memorable Formal, marking the end of their secondary schooling with style and pride.
• Year 10 enjoyed an exciting adventure at Jamberoo, strengthening friendships and celebrating their hard work.
• Year 8 had a fantastic time at Raging Waters, where teamwork, fun,andshared experiences helped build strong connections.
Throughout all these events, our students consistently modelled our PERSIST values, showing respect, integrity, teamwork, and perseverance in everything they did. Staff across the school continue to comment on how well our students conduct themselves, both on and off campus.
This term, we also received excellent feedback from the NSW Public School Survey Team, with our analyst teams presenting data that confirms what we see every day students who are engaged, motivated, and building strong relationships with teachers and peers. The positive culture across Years 8, 10 and 12 is the result of everyone working together, supporting one another, and striving for improvement.
I want to thank all students for their hard work and enthusiasm throughout the term. Your growth academically, socially, and personally has been outstanding. Thank you also to our dedicated staff and families who continue to partner with us to ensure every student feels supported and valued.
I look forward to seeing what we can achieve together next year.
Conny Mattimore Deputy Principal
PERU Programs
The Prevention Education and Research Unit (PERU), based at Westmead Hospital, has proudly partnered with Rooty Hill High School for more than 20 years. This year was packed with exciting opportunities for our students.
Term 1
Students As LifeStyle Activists (SALSA)
Thirty-four Year 10 students trained as SALSA Peer Leaders. They delivered four engaging lessons to our Year 8 classes, running fun activities focused on healthy eating and physical activity.
Breathe Easy All Together (BEAT)
Thirty-two Year 10 volunteers trained as BEAT Peer Leaders and delivered two lessons to Year 7, highlighting the importance of protecting respiratory health and saying “No” to vaping.
Term 2
Health Hackathon
In June, seven Year 10 students were selected to take part in a two-day Health Hackathon at Westmead Hospital. They worked alongside health professionals to develop a health campaign tailored for our school community.
Youth Ambassadors
Seven of our Peer Leaders were chosen to represent NSW Health in a multicultural communication project. They helped create messages that encourage young people to involve their grandparents in healthy living activities.
Term 3
SALSA Youth Voices Leadership Day
In Term 3, ten SALSA Peer Leaders attended the SALSA Youth Voices Leadership Day at the GWS Giants Community Centre. Students developed an action plan to promote healthier eating or physical activity at school and even got to tour the athletic facilities and meet some of the players! They look forward to rolling out their plan in Week 9 of Term 4.
Term 4
WSYD Moving Symposium
Congratulations to Khalia and Makayla in Year 11, who were invited to present the 2024 SALSA Youth Voices Action Plan at the prestigious WSYD Moving Symposium. Their presentation impressed health, industry, government and research leaders alike.
It is always a privilege to work with the students at Rooty Hill High School and PERU looks forward to continuing this partner for many years into the future. We would like to thank Principal Christine Cawsey and all the teachers at Rooty Hill High School for their continued support of our programs, with a special mention to PDHPE teacher Mr Alhameed for coordinating these opportunities for the students.
YEAR 7
Year Adviser Message
Year7hashadafantasticTerm4,roundingofftheyearwith enthusiasm, resilience and a strong sense of community. Throughouttheterm,studentscelebratedtheirsuccessesand
achievements through personalised learning conversations, reflecting on their growth as students and acknowledging their strengths and how they can use these moving forward. They enjoyed a well-deserved year group excursion to Raging Waters, where they took on the slides with confidence and created lasting memories together. Year 7 also demonstrated outstanding participation and resilience during swim school, Hoops for Hope, Grade Sport and the Kongo Fundraiser.
They have also embraced the festive spirit with our funfilled 12 Days of Christmas activities. Above all, they consistently showed up, supported one another and continued to be Team Rooty Hill. Congratulations to Year 7 on not only a wonderful Term 4, but a fantastic start to high school. Wishing you all the very best as you move into Year 8 and beyond.
Mrs Tapuska Year 7 Adviser
Swim School
Written
by William Condello
This term, Year 7 took part in Swim School where we learned how to swim safely and look after ourselves in the water. We learned important pool safety rules, CPR, and survival skills to help us feel more confident in the water. We also practised diving and swimming different strokes like freestyle and butterfly. Most of all, we had lots of fun in the pool while learning important water safety skills.
Fun in Class
Written by Amiah Jeane Breaux
This term, Year 7 had some amazing opportunities to learn how to play different instruments and perform in front of an audience. We showed confidence, shared our talents, and filled the hall with music that made everyone proud.
In LOTE, we made paper dumplings and learned how to use chopsticks, which was lots of fun. In HSIE, we learned about the curse of Tutankhamun and investigated what the evidence revealed about Ötzi the Iceman. A big thank you to our amazing teachers for creating such fun, interesting, and engaging lessons for us.
Hoops4Hope
Written by Elizabeth Williams
This term, Year 7 students took part in Hoops of Hope, forming teams of five to compete in basketball games against peers from across the school. The event was filled with energy and teamwork, as students encouraged one another and enjoyed the friendly competition. To finish the day, everyone gathered for a barbeque, creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere that brought the school community together.
Grade Sport
Written by Aryan Prasad
This term in grade sport, we learned how to work as a team with our classmates. We played games like endzone and basketball against other classes in a whole grade competition. Everyone had lots of fun playing with their mates and spending time with friends every fortnight. A big thank you to the teachers who made grade sport so enjoyable!
Raging Waters
Written by Natalie McKee
Year 7 celebrated their fantastic year with an exciting trip to Raging Waters! We started the day on the awesome water slides that made us scream, laugh, and have so much fun. We also visited the canteen to fill our stomachs and get our energy back before heading to the pretty radical wave pool, which made us feel like we were at the beach.
Even though there were lots of other schools there, we still took the time to help others by showing them where to go and checking on peopleifthey fell over. Overall, Year 7had an amazing day at Raging Waters. We are very thankful for the teachers and staff who came along and helped make the day so fun and memorable.
Engineering Systems: Racing into Learning
Written by Conny Mattimore
This term, our Year 7 Engineering Systems students put their creativity, problem-solving skills and engineering knowledge to the test as they designed and built their very own battery-operated propeller cars. The project was an exciting blend of theory and hands-on learning, giving studentsthechancetoexploretheworldofforce,energyand motion in a highly practical and enjoyable way.
Throughout the course, students followed the engineering design process, learning how ideas move from concept to prototype to final product. They investigated potential and kinetic energy, using ramps and fun practical activities to see these concepts in action. This helped them understand how energy is stored, transferred and released knowledge that became essential to powering their cars.
Students constructed their vehicles from the ground up. They:
• built electronic circuits to drive the propeller.
• assembled wheels, axles and chassis onto a timber base, and
• designed their own car shells, which were then shaped using vacuum forming to bring their visions to life.
The results were outstanding. Every car was unique, showcasing the students’ creativity, persistence and growing engineering skills.
The project reached its peak with the Rooty Hill Grand Prix, where each class held a high-energy race to find their top three fastest cars. The grand final brought together the best of the best an unforgettable showdown filled with cheering, flags waving, and cars speeding across the finish line in a spectacular blur of motion.
Congratulations to all Year 7 students for their hard work, teamwork and enthusiasm. Your cars were a huge success, and your achievements are something to be proud of. Well done, Year 7!
LOTE
Written by Natasha Nonu
Students had the opportunities to learn several cultural insights about Chinese food and culture including the history of dumplings, Chinese tea and practice on how to use traditional chopsticks. Students enjoyed hands-on craft making paper dumplings as well as having a go at using chopsticks to pick up cotton balls and pearls.
As a member of the CLTANSW (Chinese Language Teachers Association NSW) the following students have been awarded outstanding achievements in 2025 of their language learning journeys. CLTANSW Appreciation Awards: Alvin Yacat, Eva Koirala and Chanelle Bernil. CLTANSW Excellence Awards: Haddi Rezaei and Isha Alcantara.
YEAR 8
Year Adviser Message
Year 8 2025, you have truly enjoyed a highly energised and jam-packed year filled with just the right combination of learning and fun. As your Year Adviser, watching you transition from first-year high schoolers into confident, responsible, and engaged young adults has been the highlight of my year. I am immensely proud of the way you've embraced every challenge and opportunity thrown your way.
Your collective spirit was evident from day one. Kicking off the year with the Swimming Carnival, your energy was contagious, settinga highbar for the Athletic’s Carnival and for the year ahead. Your enthusiasm carried through to our celebration of culture and inclusion at the Harmony in Diversity Day
Year 8 participated in future-focused initiatives like the Origin Explorer's Day and the Inspire8 Excursion, allowing you to link your current interests and strengths with future pathways and when choosing Year 9 Electives. We had incredible fun during the two days of Strength in Numbers. Over these days, you increased your bond with each other and grew stronger as a year group.
On the field and court, Year 8 truly dominated! The year wasmarkedbysomemajorsportingevents,startingwiththe Girls and Boys Panther Trophy Cup. Congratulations on your success in the AFL Gala Day, Rugby League events, and your achievements in the Volleyball School's Cup and Volleyball Championship.
Looking ahead to next year, your leadership journey officially began with the training day for Peer Mentoring in 2026. This day showed so many of you are ready to guide and mentor the incoming Year 7 students - a testament to your readiness for greater responsibility.
To cap off a year of hard work and immense growth, the final excursion to Raging Waters was a well-deserved celebration. It was fantastic to see everyone unwind, embrace the thrilling rides, and simply enjoy time together. It was a perfect, fun ending to a brilliant year.
Finally, a huge congratulations to Lilly Smith for her outstanding diligence and dedication across all subjects, earning her the distinguished title of Dux of Year 8.
Year 8, 2025, you have delivered a remarkable performance this year, embodying potential and promise. Rest up, have a wonderful and safe holiday, and I look forward to seeing your leadership blossom in Year 9.
Miss Ratnappuly Year 8 Adviser
YEAR 9
Year Adviser Message
This term has been a truly special one for Year 9, and it’s been incredible to watch how much this cohort has grown. From the way you’ve approached your learning, to how
you’ve supported one another both in and out of the classroom, you’ve continued to show maturity, resilience and a strong sense of community.
We’ve shared some memorablemoments together this term. MMAD Night showcased the creativity and confidence of our students, with artwork on display and performances that filled the space with energy and pride. The We Are Successful Seniors program gave students the chance to reflect on their journey so far and start preparing for the exciting step into senior school, finishing with a picnic and DJ to farewell Ms Sarah Andrews and celebrate your junior school graduation. We also wrapped up the year with wellearned celebrations,including the Raging Watersexcursion, andmeaningful Personalised Learning Conversations where students thoughtfully reflected on their progress and set goals for 2026. A special mention must also go to the Year 9 students who led the SchoolKits for Congo fundraiser, showing leadership, initiative and compassion through a highly successful handball competition.
Congratulations, Year 9! You’ve officially finished your junior school years, and I honestly couldn’t be prouder. It has been such a privilege watching you grow into the mature, dedicated and genuinely good young people you are. The way you support each other, lift each other up, and show up for your village says so much about who you’re becoming. It’s been a joy to walk alongside you this year, to lend a helping hand during the tougher moments, to motivate you when you needed it, and to celebrate every success with you. As you move into the senior school, keep that same kindness, courage and sense of community. You’re more than ready for what’s next, and I can’t wait to see you shine.
Miss Elford Year 9 Adviser
MMAD Night
MMAD Night was such a fun and memorable night for our school. Seeing our artwork displayed made everyone feel proud, and it was awesome walking around with friends and checking out what people had created. The concert was a huge highlight, with so many great performances that kept the energy up all night. It was really nice seeing students support each other and celebrate creativity together. Shout out to the Year 9 Music class!
We Are Successful Seniors
The ‘We Are Successful Seniors’ program really helped us feel more prepared for senior school. Over three days, we took part in lessons and listened to guest speakers who shared advice about subjects, study skills, and managing the jump to Stage 6. It made the future feel a lot less overwhelming. We ended the program with a picnic and DJ to farewell Ms Andrews and celebrate graduating from junior school, which was a fun and meaningful way to finish Year 9.
Raging Waters
Hoops4Hope
Going to Raging Waters with Year 7 was the perfect way to celebrate the end of the year. After a long term, it was great to relax, go on rides, and spend time with friends outside of school. There was lots of laughter, photos, and memories made, and it was definitely a day everyone will remember.
Personalised Learning Conversations
The Personalised Learning Conversations were a really nice time. Sitting down one-on-one with a teacher gave us a chance to really reflect on how our year went, what we did well, and what we can improve on. We also talked about goals and plans for 2026, which made it feel like our teachers genuinely cared about our progress and future.
SchoolKits for Congo Fundraiser
The SchoolKits for Congo fundraiser was a huge success and something we can be proud of. The handball competition, organised by Year 9 students and mostly played by Year 9, brought heaps of people together for a good cause. It was competitive but fun and knowing we were helping students in the Congo made it even better.
Model UN
Model United Nations was a challenging but really rewarding experience. Run by Ms Dowling, the program gave us the chance to take on the role of different countries and debate real global issues in a mock UN setting. Speaking in front of others was nerve-wracking at first, but it helped build confidence and communication skills. It was a great opportunity to step outside our comfort zones and feel like our voices mattered.
Hoops for Hope was such a great day and for an even better cause. The basketball competition brought heaps of students together, with teams competing, cheering each other on, and raising money for charity at the same time. The games were competitive but fun, and the atmosphere was positive all day. It felt good knowing that by getting involved, we were helping make a difference beyond our school.
YEAR 10
Year Adviser Message
Year 10 once again has had an eventful term, filled with a variety of academics, sporting, creative/performing arts and whole cohort achievements. The year group spent their final term participating in several programs and events such as the SLASA program, Haka Warriors, Story Factory workshops, Nepean Festival of Art & Design and MADD Night.
At the beginning of the term a group of Year 10, students demonstrated leadership as they worked together as the NSW Public Schools Survey Analyst Team to present data at one of the exec meetings. For some in the year group, this term was their first to go to Jamberoo.
The year group looked forward to this end of the year excursionandhadagreattimeonthedaymakingmemories. Each term this year has given Year 10 new opportunities, new challenges, and new memories, and this one has been no exception. Good luck to them as they enter Year 11 in 2026!!
Mr Mangali Year 10 Adviser
NSW Public Schools Survey Analyst Team
Written by Julian Lintag
Being a part of the analyst team for Rooty Hill High was a great pleasure and experience to be a part of. This
opportunity allowed me to work and implement new ideas to make our school better.
The people involved in the team really helped paved the way and helped on how to improve our school and itsenvironment and facilities. It was a great joy and honour to be a part of something that’s really important, especially since it matters to the students, the teachers and staff and it really showed me that there is always going to be a way to benefit not only us, the students but also our teachers as well.
Our involvement in it was very special since we spoke for the year group, once we spoke not only did the team speak but the entirety of Year 10 did as well.
For me, it was beneficial because me and my team got an opportunity to know what’s happening in our school and having the power and knowledge to brainstorm and solve what we can do for our school to make it better by showcasing it to teachers to get what we need and to make the school a better place than where it was before.
SALSA
Written by Isabella Brooke
The SALSA (Students As Lifestyle Activists) program trains Year 10 students to teach four 60-minute structured lessonsabouthealthyeatingandphysicalactivitytoyounger kids in Years 7 and 8. The Youth Voices component builds on this foundation allowing students to increase their leadership skills to create their own health initiatives within their schools. This term, a team of 9 students including myself created our own version of The Pacific Cup which was designed to encourage Year 10 students to work together and represent different Pacific teams through friendly competitive sporting competition.
Written
by Lillyarna Suitupe
Rooty Hill has been a part of the Haka Warriors program for several years now. This program allows children of all backgrounds to learn and understand the Polynesian cultures,throughdanceandsinging.It isa20-weekprogram that many Year 10 students got to enjoy and be a part of. From Year 10 there were approximately 10 students that
participated in 2025 and were lucky enough to be successful in winning this year's competition!
This program brought many of these students together by sharing similarities in dance, food and culture, while also teaching us the importance of hard work, discipline, and resilience. From this a few Year 10 students were selected to attend the local Mt Druitt primary school, to teach the younger students the haka performed this year.
The students involved were Ulata, Mele and Tarnaya, who all expressed how exciting it was to teach the younger kids, talk to them and have some fun with them. It was a massive honour for them to be a part of those few students who went and gained the skills of communication and leadership. Overall, it was a very successful year for the 2025 Haka Warriors team.
Nepean Festival of Art & Design
Written by Ava Scobie Nepean Festival of Art & Design was a showcase from Western Sydney to celebrate and recognise those who entered artworks.
This was the perfect way to unite various artistic communities where awards were also given from different Art facilities such as Eckersley. Among my Year 10 Art peers, we were privileged to have had artworks entered, more specifically our work that focused on portraiture. This festival was the perfect opportunity for not only students but adults including, to have artworks of any kind displayed for the public to observe.
Furthermore, it was a beautiful way for family and friends to bond and to have an overall enjoyable time. On the opening night there were staff members offering food and drinks as well as a concluding award presentation, which made it a memorable event.
As a whole this was a great experience and beneficial towards Western Sydney’s artists into getting their artworks recognised.
MMAD Night
Written by Khalia Evagelia Daniel
M.A.D.D stands for Music, Art, Dance, and Drama. It showcases the artistic skills of the many students at Rooty Hill High School. It’s a night full of fun, entertainment and performances.
Variousstudentsareincludedinthisevent.Juniorandsenior music and art classes, our schools dance group, drama club, and music enrichment. It’s an amazing night I enjoy and look forward to. Being able to watch and cheer on the many performers is the highlight.
I am frequently involved in M.A.D.D nights as my artworks areput ondisplay.YoucanalsoseemeonstageasIperform
Junior Haka Warrior Leaders
with my Year 10 music enrichment group members. It’s a beneficial night because students can express themselves creatively.
Book Launch with Story Factory
Written by Addison Marsh
The book launch with Story Factory was a great success and celebration of the accomplishments of the year 10 class ‘10.1’.
This event was a day where all the schools participating in the Story Factory program came together and saw their 20 weeks’ worth of poems and self-expression being published into a hard copy book that they can take home and show their family and friends.
The book launch was a very enjoyable day out with the whole class and teacher having smiles on their faces for the whole event. Aleya and I Addison, were chosen to speak at this event, I read my poem titled ‘Not DNA but things that make up me’ and Aleya read a poem of a fellow classmate who was absent that day.
Aleya and I read out these poems at the event in front of approximately 150 people, these people included the Story Factory staff and mentors and the other schools who also took this program. This event was beneficial to the 10.1 class as we had the chance to express ourselves and let out our feelings through the art of poetry.
YEAR 11
Year 11 Visual Design Mural
This term, our Year 12 Visual Design students explored the vibrant, nature-inspired work of contemporary artist Krimsone, studying his use of colour, form, and symbolism in class. They also had the unique opportunity to watch him work within our school, gaining firsthand insight into his creativeprocess.Usingadesignbriefdevelopedduringtheir lessons, students created their own large-scale mural that celebrates our local landscape through native flora and fauna. The finished artwork showcases their creative skills, collaboration,andconnectiontoplace nowacolourfuland uplifting addition to our school.
NAIDOC Week Performance
During the Term 3 school holidays, a group of students had the opportunity to perform at the NAIDOC Week 2025 organised and supported by the Blacktown Area Community Centres. Our school performed a music item and a dance item on the day. Students had so much fun performingonthestageandhadtheopportunitiestoconnect with the local community members. Well done to our senior musicians Lachlan, Jimmy, Shaun and Christabelle as well as Year 9 culture dancers Mataiah Ruby and Malu.
Dance Incursion Workshop
In Week 5 of Term 4, a group of RHHS students had the opportunity to engage in a dance workshop led by the dance artist from Sydney Dance Company. Students had a great timeexpressingthemselvesthroughdancepracticeandhave grasped basic understanding of some of the contemporary dance techniques. We congratulate the students who participated in this incursion workshop.
CAPA
CongratulationstothetalentedK-6studentsfromRootyHill Public School, Mount Druitt Public School, Minchinbury Public School, and Eastern Creek Public School whose creativity shone bright in the Milkshakes and Monet program, held in Week 2 of this term. The outstanding artworks created at our extension art workshop were part of our Learning Neighbourhood initiative and Talent Development Program.
Pulse Alive 2026
We would like to congratulate Mikayla Mantua of Year 12 for being successful in her audition as a vocalist for the Principal Choir and as a Backing Vocalist for PULSE Alive 2026. She will be joined by 20 of our Year 712 students who will also form part of the massed choir. We are excited to give our HPGE students an opportunity to perform in this professional event, showcasing the musical talents from
public schools across NSW. Congratulations on this very exciting opportunity.
Onstage Nomination – Congratulations Brody Willcockson!
WeareproudtoannouncethatYear12Drama student Brody Willcockson has been nominated for OnSTAGE, a prestigious showcase celebrating outstanding Individual and Group Drama HSC Projects from across New South Wales. Brody’s original script, ‘Neath Mother’s Blue Eyes, was recognised for its creativity, sophistication, and powerful storytelling.
Being nominated for OnSTAGE is an exceptional achievement, reflecting the high standard of Brody’s work among thousands of HSC Drama performances and projects across the state Congratulations, Brody, on this incredible accomplishment!
2025 Nepean Festival of Arts and Design Exhibitors
RootyHill HighSchool isproudtocelebratetheoutstanding achievements of our talented Visual Arts students at the 2025 Nepean Festival of Arts and Design.
A special congratulations to Ava of Year 10 for receiving an award for her expressive charcoal work Pop, and to Colin and Greg of Year 10 for winning in the Secondary (Senior) categorywiththeircollaborativepieceThisisGregandThis is Colin. We are incredibly proud of their creativity, dedication, and artistic growth.
We would also like to acknowledge and congratulate our wonderful student exhibitors whose works were selected for display this year:
Ester, Quincie, Zacha (Year 8), Hayley, Jordan, Mia, (Year 10), Keeley and Mali (Year 11). Having your artworks showcased at such a prestigious regional exhibition is an exceptional achievement.
These students represent our school community with pride, talent, and imagination.
MADD Night
Congratulations to all the students from Visual Arts, Music, Drama, and TAS who took part in this semester’s MADD Showcase. Students from Years 7 to 10 shared their creativity and talent through a fantastic range of artworks, design projects and performances. Their hard work in collaborating, preparing, and curating the showcase is outstanding and a testament to our wonderful community.
School Spectacular
Congratulations to our performing arts students who were among the large number NSW public schools that partook in the annual 2025 School Spectacular, this year themed Remarkable.Forsome,thiswas theirfirsttimeexperiencing being part of such a huge production full of choreographed singing and dancing. Well done to Conner, Sakura, Nikki, Amelia, Quincie, Zacha, Chanelle, Annika, Thaksika, Roaa, Mikaela, Zeth, Avery, and to our 2 graduated seniors Emily
and Alyssa for their remarkable Achievements. We would also like to acknowledge and give a special thank you to the Year9Visual Art students.Theyhelpedtodesignandcreate the Rio themed masks that were used as costume props during one of the performances.
Secondary Principals Council
Sport
Written by Mr Levi Opens Girls Volleyball Team
Congratulationsto our young Artists of the Week for Term 4! Their impressive range of artwork was proudly showcased, featuring Year 7 printmaking, Year 8 mixed-media pieces, and creative Year 10 portraits. Well done to Zacha, Ester, Aalia, Arnold, Christian, Gregory, Colin, Isha, Marcela, Hayley, Jessica, Andrea, Sienna, and Jordan on their outstanding achievements! Artists of the Week – Term 4 Congratulations to our young Artists of the Week for Term 4! Their impressive range of artwork was proudly showcased, featuring Year 7 printmaking, Year 8 mixedmedia pieces, and creative Year 10 portraits. Well done to Zacha, Ester, Aalia, Arnold,Christian, Gregory, Colin, Isha, Marcela, Hayley, Jessica, Andrea, Sienna, and Jordan on their outstanding achievements!
The Opens Girls Volleyball team placed 4th overall at the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup. They played against the best teams in both Australia and New Zealand, including State and Australian representative opposition.
The Opens Girls volleyball team should be commended for their success in 2025 winning:
• 4thoverall attheAustralianVolleyball SchoolsCup
• NSW Combined High School Champions
• Sydney West Knockout Champions
ATTENDANCE RECOGNITION
100% Attendance in Term 4 2025
Year 7:
Rishan Ahmad Rhianna Micallef
Thon Atiuch
Lance Baldeswis
Reece Bird
Spencer Elliott
Xantle Zhey Estrada
Ashley Farthing
Hannah Fryer
Aaliyah Fuiono
Sarah Mickiewicz
Savio Nguyen
Ivy Nucom
Max Ou
Haddi Rezaei
Alyssa Richmond-Cassells
Jannah Santiago
Enrique Sebastia
Alexander Furlan Gurnaaz Singh
Zameer Haidari Thon Mabior Thon
Lachlan Hallam Hayden Walker
Fardin Hussaini Elizabeth Williams
Ervic Isidro Isaac Wixted
Fatuma Kanneh Samantha Yang
Roman Lapteff
Fahima Mesbah
Year 8:
Luis Abarca Jack Shang Zhao Long Li
Alghasim Balla Ester Mashikura
Calvin Caspuanan Mackenzie Pittman
Priscilla Darwon Ethan Ponce
Joel Giannetti Pranshu Prajapati
Ferdaws Hamid Antonio Ramos
Athar Hassani Jarryd Santiago
Syed Hossain Ali Sina Sayedi
Shiraz Hussein Robert Toomalatai
Ali Jalil Logan Willcockson
Issa Lafi
Year 9:
Natasha Ah Lam Vivienne Nguyen
Mihrisah Aksakal Faith Nucom
James Aoun Cayden Parsons
Gurpreet Singh
Bhamra Rham Peralta
Tanmay Bhatt Khang Phan
Eshan Bhuiyan Harley Pittman
Von Isaiah Casuco Thivain Polwaththa Gallage
Henrick Cheng Atharv Prasad
Anton Dargantes Jayden Rapa
Jacy De Leon
Mercado Tyler Reeved
Ethan Dillon Jakin Reuelu
Kyle Andrei Duran Anthony Reyes
Ethan Gao Arshpreet Sakhala
Ali Hashimi Zaminali Sarwari
Sayed Hofiani Malini Siliva
Mohammad Jawad
Jafari Noah Sinnett
Raina Kongkon Hozaan Talabani
Mercy Lalaga Adut Thon
Melody Martin Caleb Thorpe
Mohammad Mesbah Catherine Veng
Azlan Mohammed Zayne Villanueva
Abdiyanle Muktar Ali Margaret Wilson
Ali Naderi Melissa Yang
Year 10:
Loujane Abbadi Mitch Neich
Aaron Acosta Darrel Nucom
Tala Ah Lam Jakob Onesemo
Ali Awsat Bunyadi Alecia Ostric
Mark Catalbas Elijah Ponce
Tristan Catalbas Brayden Portelli
Evan Jiarui Gao Leandra Pulega
Raiyan Huda Alfred Ramos
Maira Hussain Justyn Raquedan
Muhammad Hussain Miguel Reyes
Ekaterina Lapteff Laith Saleh
Anthony Le Mary-Elle Sanitago
Sanjai Lokesh Kumar Ava Scobie
Colin Malsi Jezelle Seaton
Elouche Gabriel
Matibag Devanshi Sharan
Callum MidsonMould Lilah Tume
Maxene Mojica Alyssa Urfano
Joshua Mayse Riley Willcockson
Asli Nacakli
LIBRARY
Beating our Own Record
In 2025 our students loaned so many books and other resources from the library we managed to break a record. The highest number of loans on record at the school in a given year was 3684. This year we have loaned 3778 resources and counting. Well done students. You have shownapassionforreading, andevenifyoudon’t recognise it, a commitment to improving your literacy.
Chess Competition
The local primary schools had their grand final championship chess tournament hosted at Rooty Hill High School. It was a very heated battle, but the overall winners were Rooty Hill Public School.
Display Guessing Competition
Students predicted the new displayswhichcamearound every 2 weeks in the library this term by solving different word and visual clues. Some of the most popular displays were Ms Gili’s China themed display and the Dr Seuss display. mar
Gateway Competition
Our final Gateway program day was held in Term 4 and wrapped up several exciting streams for our local primary schools to experience expert run high potential courses. These allowed students to learn and grow together and experience learning in a range of key areas. Some key highlights for students were hands-on learning and being pushed with their thinking and creativity.
