Welcome to Term 1 Week 7
What's in this week's Connect
- NAPLAN: Parent & carer information for students in years 3, 5, 7 & 9
- Library News: We want photos & videos of you reading
- Australian Geography Competition: Entries close 20 March
- Student News: Operation Art
- Student Work: Yr 8 Visual Arts; Year 9 Visual Arts; Year 10 Visual Arts; Year 11 Photographic Video & Digital Imaging
- Mini School Fun: What a great Two Days!
- Headspace: Starburst Group
- Term 1 eSafety parents & carers webinars
- Careers: Career Ideas; Open Days; Scholarships; Resources
- Learning & Wellbeing Coaches 2026
- Wellbeing: General links
We would love to hear from you. If have something to share in our school newsletter please email it to: finigansde@det.nsw.edu.au
NAPLAN parent & carer information for students in years 3, 5, 7 & 9
NSW schools will participate in NAPLAN online testing from Wednesday, 11 March, to Monday, 23 March 2026. At Finigan SDE, students complete tests administered by supervisors in their current learning environment. The FSDE NAPLAN Coordinator will be monitoring and providing support from FSDE. It is our expectation that all students at FSDE sit the tests, as they provide valuable insights into their learning progress. Additionally, NAPLAN supports school improvement by enabling teachers to monitor student progress against national benchmarks, identify strengths, and refine teaching programs to address areas for improvement. More information about NAPLAN is available in the attached brochure. You will have received further information, including the full timetable, parent as supervisor form, and details regarding disability adjustments, in a separate letter from the school. Please ensure the Supervisor Agreement is completed and returned as soon as possible. In the coming weeks, students will have the opportunity to ensure they are ready for the tests. Parents and supervisors are encouraged to access the NAPLAN public demonstration site to support preparation at home. NAP - Public demonstration site Further information about NAPLAN is available on the NESA website (https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/nesa/naplan) and the NAP website (https://www.nap.edu.au/naplan/for-parents-carers). If you have any questions or wish to discuss your child’s participation in NAPLAN, please contact Michelle Grasso via email at Michelle.grasso2@det.nsw.edu.au
Library News
Australian Geography Competition 2026
Why do the AGC?
If you are interested, then let your Geography Teacher know. Entries close soon - 20th of March
Student News
Operation Art
Congratulations to Paora Gavel, Year 9 2025, for the selection of his artwork to be included in the permanent art collection at the Children’s Hospital Westmead, NSW. Paora’s artwork was selected and sent away last year to be included in the statewide exhibition Operation Art. The artworks are created by children and young people, for sick and healing children and youth, who often spend many days and weeks in hospital. From over 650 entries, then a select number are chosen to become part of the permanent collection at Westmead. Paora’s artwork was selected! This is a first for Finigan School of Distance Education and wonderful accolade for Paora. Paora and family went to the opening at NSW Art Gallery in Sydney, on February 18th. He received a certificate and complimentary art bag. Congratulations to Paora!
Student Work
Year 8 Visual Arts
The Water topic focuses on painting and Australian artists. Year 8 students created some amazing artwork with the theme of 'Flood'.
Year 9 Visual Arts
Year 10 Visual Arts
The real and the Imagined 'Morphed Insect'
Year 11 Photography Video and Digital Imaging
Students were required to select an object using Photoshop and then make that object appear to be falling through the sky like rain. Other images show learning about the use of light in photopraphy and the adjustment of the lighting using different programs.
Mini School Fun
What a Great Two Days!
Last week our students from Year 3 to 12 enjoyed two fantastic days of learning, challenge and connection. On Monday, students participated in engaging workshops at school with CAPA and PDHPE. During the CAPA workshop, students began by reflecting on the meaning of inclusivity and what it looks and feels like in our school community. They then worked collaboratively in teams to create sensory artworks using everyday objects. It was wonderful to see their creativity shine as they explored different textures, materials and ideas, while also strengthening their teamwork and communication skills. In PDHPE, students had a great time learning and playing pickleball. The games were full of energy, laughter and friendly competition, with students encouraging one another and developing their skills throughout the session. A visit to the Hijinx Hotel on Monday evening was enjoyed by all! On Tuesday, we headed to Birrigai Outdoor School for an exciting day of adventure. Despite the rain, spirits remained high and the weather certainly didn’t dampen anyone’s enthusiasm! Students worked in pairs for the crate stack challenge, showing teamwork, trust and determination as they carefully built their towers higher and higher. The support students showed each other during this activity was outstanding. The highlight for many was the Leap of Faith — a big challenge that required courage and confidence. It was fantastic to see students cheering each other on and celebrating one another’s achievements. We finished the day cooking damper by the campfire, which was a perfect way to dry out from the rain and reflect on the day. It has been especially lovely to welcome lots of new students who joined us this term. We are so pleased to have you as part of Mini School. We are already looking forward to seeing everyone again in Term 2 for more connection, challenge and fun!
Headspace - Starburst Group
Term 1 eSafety Parents & Carers Webinars
Careers
Registrations to sit UCAT 2026 are now open! Book your UCAT testing date soon to avoid disappointment! Bookings to sit UCAT 2026 close on 15 May 2026. More information about the registration and booking process can be found HERE.
University of Wollongong - Parent and Student Information Evenings
UOW (University of Wollongong) is committed to providing high school students, parents and carers of high school students with information and knowledge to help make informed decisions about your future. These interactive events are designed to answer all the common questions that students have about starting university study. UOW staff and current students will be on-hand to make sure you have all of your questions answered at the one time in the one place. These events will be held at a nearby location to you across various locations in NSW, see below for dates, times and locations and to register.
Students & families can register now
Locations include: Shoalhaven Dubbo Bathurst Wagga Wagga Southern Highlands Liverpool Sutherland Tumut Bega Orange Griffith Parkes Batemans Bay Canberra Albury Cowra Mudgee Wollongong Goulburn
ANU – Direct Entry applications open 11 March 2026
Students can begin applying directly to the Australian National University (ANU) through the ANU Direct Entry Scheme as of 11 March 2026 (for study in 2027). Applications are free and include applying for academic admission, accommodation and scholarships in the one application. Early offers will be released in September using Year 11 or equivalent results and adjustment factors to calculate your ANU selection rank. Students who receive an early offer will need to complete their final year and obtain an ATAR or equivalent.
ANU - Open Day Saturday 28 March 2026
This is your day to soak up new ideas, experience the ANU campus and tour world-class facilities. You’ll get the opportunity to meet current students and renowned academics, explore degree programs and attend information sessions.
When can I start work?
A big part of growing up is starting work. It can be great to have some extra money for yourself, feel more independent, as well as learning the skills you’ll need in the workforce for the rest of your life.
7 useful video application tips
A video application is your chance to show employers more than what’s written on your resume. Read more.
What is salary sacrifice?
Ever wonder how to make your pay go further? Small decisions today can add up to big benefits tomorrow. Find out more.
What it really takes to go on world tour
Think going on tour is only for superstars? Think again. A world tour creates thousands of jobs across every career cluster. Find out more.
Where studying art could take you
Studying art builds way more than drawing skills. Discover the surprising careers where creative thinking gives you a real edge. Click here.
How to become a News Team Producer
News Team Producers coordinate crews, journalists, and equipment to capture breaking stories across multiple locations and deliver accurate, compelling coverage to audiences. Find out more.
Scholarships
Strive Scholarships
Strive scholarships is SGCH’s annual education program providing money for educational extra-curricular costs. The scholarship money can be used to pay for things such as school fees, stationary, computers, extra-curricular activities and more. Click HERE to find out more.
Scholarships to Study at the Melbourne Institute of Massage and Myotherapy
The Melbourne Institute of Massage and Myotherapy provides scholarships for students looking to study Remedial Massage and Massage Therapy. Click HERE to find out more.
Bria Joyce Scholarships to Cover Transport Costs for Education Related Travel The BusCharter Student Access Scholarship was established in 2022 to help Australian students who face transport challenges in accessing their education. Click HERE to find out more. Interested in finding out what else is out there in the way of Scholarships? Other Scholarships
Resources for Students
The Importance of a USI - A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is a student’s education number for life. All students undertaking nationally recognised training such as VET or a First Aid course, must have a USI to get their certificate. Higher education students need it to access a Commonwealth Supported Place, HELP loans and to graduate. Students can create their USI in under 5 minutes using their ID. For more information visit www.usi.gov.au or email stakeholders@usi.gov.au.
Learning & Wellbeing Coaches 2026
- Primary - Emma Marmont
- Year 7/8 - Michelle Hill
- Year 9 - Mark Huynh & Kerrie McKinlay
- Year 10 - Aamir Aftab & Tracey O'Leary
- Year 11 - Dylan Wood
- Year 12 - John Preston
Wellbeing links
To access the school counselling service students from year 6 to year 12 can self refer.
https://forms.office.com/r/2xBCyq7Gff?origin=lprLink