RANDWICK HIGH SCHOOL 30 may 2025

CLASS WORK, ASSESSMENTS and REPORTS

A myriad of assessments and class work has been taking place across all year groups this term, which will contribute to the half yearly report.

Students have been making, baking, decorating, (elastic band car) racing, singing, playing, drawing, writing, presenting, experimenting, designing, reading (and probably a few I’ve missed) to complete their assessments and class work for all their subjects. It’s been a real pleasure to walk around the school during class time and see the genuine interest in the activities that students are engaging in. I’ve enjoyed seeing the pride and accomplishment shining through students' faces as they show me or tell me about what they have been working on or towards.

Shout out to the Hospitality class for the delicious coffee, smashed avocado, tomato, fetta and poached egg breakfast on Wednesday mornings.

A gentle reminder that access to the homework centre is available if needed, to support your child’s preparation for upcoming assessments.

EXCURSIONS

Randwick High School students have been out and about and representing themselves with pride on a variety of excursions this term. We’ve been to the Cinema to see “Ocean” (Science), hiked the six foot track….(Yes, in the rain) for the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, visited the Year 12 Career Expo, Coogee Beach for the Koojay Corroboree and Fort Street High Schools for their Future Leaders Conference. Year 12 Economics and Drama have been on excursions and Year 9 Marine Studies participated in the “Sea Shepherd” incursion.

EVENTS

We’ve had lots of events in the first half of the term celebrating, acknowledging and supporting a number of things such as Reconciliation week, Worlds Greatest Shave, and IDAHOBIT. These were supported by class activities, whole school assemblies, workshops, fundraising and competitions. It has been lovely to see a large group of our students taking initiative and leadership of some of the activities and events.

In addition to these events, we have had Year 10 attempting their first HSC Minimum Standards tests, students participating in the Big Science Competition, the Police Youth Liaison Officers coming to present information talks to students about cyber safety, and Year 11 and 12 participating in wellbeing workshops.

SPORT

Term 2 so far has been very busy with lots of students participating in a large variety of sporting events including trials for CHS Teams, Knock Out Competitions and Carnivals.

Students have signed up to represent Randwick High School in a variety of sports including Tennis, Rugby League, Volleyball, Football, AFL, Netball, Cross Country, Futsal, and Oztag.

Our Athletics Carnival, despite the weather, was a great success. Many students arrived in their new house colours and proudly supported their friends in events or competed in them themselves. It was a very wet day, however, great spirit was shown and school records made.

Looking forward to a successful rest of term.

Leadership Excursion to NSW Parliament House

On March 19, Kai and I attended the Civics and Citizenship Program at the Parliament of NSW with other school captains from around NSW. We began the day in the auditorium, where members of parliament from each school's electorate shared their perspectives on what leadership is. We also spoke with our local Member for Coogee, Dr Marjorie O'Neill, about her career from sportswoman to politician. We then watched the Legislative Assembly on the big screen, where issues, such as the NSW Human Rights Act and Elective Surgery (non-life-threatening surgery) were discussed. The Opposition criticised the Labour government's handling of the health system and said waitlists are due to cuts to the health budget. The Labour Party argued that they have decreased the number of people waiting for elective surgery from the number the Liberal Party had it last. Two politicians had to wait outside until question time was over. Dr Marjorie O’Neill asked a question about the Anti-Discrimination Act. We also had the opportunity to learn about the significance of mandatory voting in Australia and why voting is not online (because it poses risks of legitimacy since it would be difficult to verify a citizen’s identity).

After lunch we left Parliament House and walked through the Botanical Gardens to Government House. This walk follows the same path that NSW legislation takes, as it is still delivered by hand. Government House looked like something out of a medieval castle with its Gothic Revival style. We toured the house and discovered its history as the residence of NSW Governors, including one known as "Champagne Charlie." We looked through a miniscule peephole used by the servants and saw the couch which has not been sat on by anyone other than Queen Elizabeth II. Mr Gerard Martin, the Official Secretary, briefed us on the three roles of the Governor of NSW: ceremonial, constitutional and community, and taught us how to introduce ourselves to her Excellency, the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, who spoke to us about her role, which she describes as a great pleasure. After all the formalities we entered her extravagant garden boasting a fountain and overlooking the Sydney Harbour and Opera House. But my highlight of the day was playing handball in the garden of Government House with other school captains we met from as far away as Eden, 478 km south of Sydney.

SRC and the Election Day BBQ

On Saturday 3 May , Randwick High School hosted a successful Election Day BBQ, Book and Cake Stall, organised by the Randwick High School P&C, with assistance from members of the SRC.

From the classic “democracy sausage” to homemade cakes and desserts, there was certainly something for everyone to enjoy. Voters were treated to a variety of different foods, including bacon and egg rolls, the “lot” (which did indeed include “the lot” - onion, sausage, egg and bacon), as well as sweet desserts, including cupcakes, cookies, and a wonderful chocolate and orange cake. We also can’t forget about our mobile delivery service to voters waiting in line - “Would you like a delicious democracy sausage?”

Along with the food, we also had our book stall. Whether you were looking for novels, picture books, or the classics, we had them all! The tables were packed with crowd favourites, and many voters left with a new favourite read in hand. I was stunned by just how many books there were!

Thanks to the sunny weather, the day was filled with positive energy, community spirit and plenty of smiles. The dedication and passion of our volunteers reached all those who came to vote on the day.

A massive thank you goes to the P&C for organising this event and for their ongoing support of our school. We are thankful to have such a caring community that comes together to support important days like this. We can’t wait to see what other events are organised!

Easter at Randwick High School

On 9 April, Randwick High School kicked off its first Easter Fun Day! Organised by the Student Representative Council (SRC), the day was full of activities, treats, and plenty of fun.

It all started with a colourful mufti day. Students got to swap their school uniforms for comfy, casual clothes and added a festive twist with Easter-themed accessories. From playful bunny ears to bright spring colours, the day was full of cheerful energy.

During recess, the SRC hosted a bake sale that was an absolute hit. SRC members baked up a storm, bringing in a wide variety of delicious treats that were served up and sold by our SRC team. This was to raise money for our P&C committee. Let’s just say, the sweet treats didn’t last long!

Then, the real excitement began at lunch with our Easter chick hunt. SRC members hid little plastic chicks all around the school. The mission was simple - find a chick and trade it for an Easter egg. Students were on a serious scavenger hunt. No corner was left unsearched - and competition was fierce. It was great to see everyone, from Year 7 to 12, coming together for some friendly fun.

Overall, the Randwick High Easter Fun Day was a huge success. The SRC was thrilled to see so many happy students. We hope everyone enjoyed it as much as we did. A huge thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the day so memorable. We can’t wait to plan more events like this in the future!

Randwick High School - Best in Show 2025

Being a part of 'Best in Show 2025' has been one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences. After around nine months of rehearsals, we took to the stage at NIDA on Wednesday 30 April and Thursday 1 May with a show full of energy, colour and fun - all themed around competitions.

From Spelling Bee to Masterchef, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to Rodeo, the cast of dancers, singers and stage crew took the stage by storm. From the stage lights to our audience participation segment, each show was brought to life with energy and enthusiasm.

What really made it special was not just the dancing or performances - it was the people. Everyone who is part of the show production becomes part of ‘The Show Family’. The support from everyone involved makes you feel so included, and that is what makes the whole experience really special. The energy backstage, especially right before going on, was unreal. A mix of nerves, excitement and encouragement from all in the wings.

A huge amount of work goes into putting The Show together. From weekly rehearsals and costume fittings, to tech runs, painting and building props, it was inspiring to see how committed everyone was in making it the best it can be. For us students, it was an incredible opportunity to gain real performing experience in a professional setting. We are forever grateful to all the people who gave up their time to help sew, choreograph, organise and contribute - we would not be able to do it without you.

Even the bump out felt like a celebration. After packing everything away, we all shared hot chocolate, cookies and grilled cheese toasties. The sense of community and shared effort makes The Show such an incredible experience.

It is not just about one person - it is about all of us, The Show Family, coming together to create something amazing.

A huge thank you to all our sponsors. Without your generous donations, we would not be able to have a school show:

Thank you to anyone who supported the show by entering in the Show Raffle! We had a fantastic range of prizes, and are thrilled to announce the lucky winners:

Alison Cramp walked away with a voucher for races, while Greg Deve scored a delicious prize from Firehawk Grill.

Geoff James will be enjoying a treat from the Tea Room, and Mabel was gifted a bottle of Chandon Rose.

Tordoff received a prize from Harris Farm, and Barry Borer claimed the Coles / Myer voucher.

Jan Ringrose will be glowing after a mobile spray tan, and Karen took home a BlendJet blender.

Megan received a beautifully scented candle, and Liz Russell will be indulging in a Haigh’s chocolate tin.

Sandra Scifllel won a handy first aid kit, while Nikki Goldsmith was treated to a pamper pack.

Jane Cameron was surprised with a mystery gift, and we believe Andrew received the final prize - but we’ll confirm that one shortly!

There are only so many words to describe this experience. It was an absolute honour and privilege to be involved in such an incredible production.

Georgie Goldsmith and Linda Almandalawi - as members of The School Show, what were your favourite moments from the experience?

Georgie G: One of my favourite parts of the whole experience was the time just before every performance - everyone was so excited, cheering each other on, hugging, and hyping each other up. The energy was so positive, and it really showed how close we had all become.

Linda A: My favourite moments from The Show started right from the beginning and lasted to the very end. Being backstage with my year group, counting down the minutes until our next performance, and making the audience jump out of their seats during ‘Rodeo’ to follow along to our dance moves - it all felt magical. But it is more than just what the audience saw on stage - it was the connection we had with each other. The love and support were constant - from quick changes, high fives, and hugs, to the endless “you’re doing great” and “good luck” from everyone.

To The Show Family, thank you for such an incredible experience - you have made this a memory that will last a lifetime. I hope you all continue to be the bright, shining stars that you are - both on stage and beyond. You all are ‘Best in Show’.

Duke of Edinburgh Gold Journey Blue Mountains

2025 COOGEE ANZAC DAY DAWN SERVICE

Once again this year, Randwick High School students did our school community extremely proud at the annual Coogee Anzac Day Dawn Service.

Braving the cold start at 4:30am and looking absolutely immaculate in their school uniforms, they conducted themselves with immense dignity and pride in front of an audience of around 3,000 people, including state politicians, military dignitaries, servicemen and servicewomen past and present and their families, and representatives of state and private schools.

Hats off to those of our students who took part in this extremely moving ceremony:

Jemma Galloway, Kai Todd, Ursula O' Sullivan, Linda Almandalawi, Unnati Kaur, Adam Qureshi, Theodore Cheng, Gabriel Conechado, Olivia Malandris and Luke Appleby.

They were such a credit to our school and to the participating "diggers" at Gallipoli in 1915, and in the various conflicts since the Boer War, and of course to the memories of those who took part and so sadly never returned.

"We will remember them

Lest we forget."

Special thanks to Ms Dovellos, Ms Simon, Ms Loizou, Ms Vo, Mr Tran and the Mathematics Faculty for their strong support.

SPARK at RHS

SPARK is a course designed to build essential skills, develop creativity, and enhance learning with the goal of fostering innovation and problem solving. It takes an interdisciplinary approach, meaning we connect and overlap subjects, helping students apply their knowledge and skills in meaningful, real-world contexts. SPARK is the evolution of what was previously known as GITI, Girls Inspired to Innovate at RGHS. GITI was a fantastic program, and SPARK builds on its strengths to extend explicit skill-building that benefits students across all subjects. Students in Years 7 and 8 have three periods a fortnight dedicated to SPARK.

Year 7 SPARK:

Term 1 for Year 7 began with an introduction to what was to come across Years 7 and 8. Students explored different focus areas and brainstormed ways they could “SPARKle!” They then set up accounts and developed skills in digital literacy, content creation, and communication through a series of curated Canva Design Challenges.

Next, students moved into a “Working with Data” unit, where they learnt about data collection and how to gather meaningful data using forms. They then used this data to create infographics, learning to visualise and communicate information effectively. We also managed to fit in our first Engineering Challenge, which helped students develop problem-solving skills and gain an understanding of key engineering principles.

With that foundation, Year 7 then launched into our first major unit on House Identity. As a new school, we need new house names and identities – and our Year 7 students have been tasked with making this happen. We explored what makes a great house identity, including colours, graphics, mottos, chants, war cries, songs, crests, and other elements.

The house names will come from the traditional Dharawal language of our local area. A shortlist of 12 names was developed in collaboration with the Gujaga Foundation, a local organisation leading language, cultural, and research activities within the La Perouse Aboriginal community.

Students worked in groups of four to five to select a name and develop a full identity package, including all the elements mentioned above. They prepared for a “Shark Tank” presentation to their peers, showcasing their skills in content creation, communication, and innovation. The unit includes a series of mini workshops to help students build and refine each element. The strongest presentations will go on to be shared with an official panel, who will help choose our final house identities. We are very excited to present these to you soon, stay tuned!

Year 8 SPARK:

To ensure consistency in core skills, all Year 8 students also completed the Canva Design Challenges and the Working with Data unit. Most classes included a spreadsheeting extension to further develop their digital skills. We also managed to squeeze in the Engineering Design Challenge, where students designed and built towers.

In Term 2, we properly launched our first unit, Plants, Place and Purpose, which draws on Science and Geography outcomes. This unit explores Australian native plants found in our local area and around the school. Students went on a tour to identify these plants, learning about their features, traditional uses by First Nations peoples, and their uses today.

Task 1 of the unit involves creating signage. Students research a plant, edit a pre-made design template, and create a digital sketch that they are taught how to produce. These signs are then laser cut and bent using acrylic, a great real-world application of their work.

Task 2 involves creating a “social media-style” video to showcase their chosen plant. The skills they practise and demonstrate here align with those needed in other subjects like English, where students are often asked to create multimodal presentations. Students were shown techniques for making effective video content, and the results were impressive.

It has been a busy and exciting start to the year, and we are proud of the creativity and progress students have shown. Watch this space for more SPARKly highlights!

Sports update

Term 2 has been a showcase of athleticism, teamwork, and school spirit at Randwick High School, with two major sporting events bringing students and staff together for fun, competition, and personal growth.

Cross Country Carnival

Earlier this term, all of Year 7 plus competitors from Years 8-12 laced up their runners for the annual Cross Country Carnival. Students tackled the course with energy and enthusiasm. Several standout competitors pushed themselves to the limit, delivering impressive performances. Good luck to our students competing at the Zone Cross Country on Tuesday 3 June.

Whole-School Athletics Carnival

Despite some challenging weather, the whole-school Athletics Carnival was a resounding success. Rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of our students or the dedication of our hardworking staff. Across both track and field events students gave their all. Equally heartening was the support seen in the stands — students cheered one another on and celebrated each other’s efforts. Well done to all the students who participated and congratulations to those who will go on to compete at the Zone Carnival later in the term.

Our staff deserve a special mention for ensuring the day ran smoothly, adapting swiftly to changing conditions and keeping the energy high from start to finish.

Knockout and other sport teams

Randwick High School teams continue to compete and shine across a wide range of sporting competitions. This term alone, our students have represented the school in several inter-school events, including U/16s Futsal, U/15s Girls Soccer, Netball, AFL, and Open Boys Soccer, Tennis and Girls Volleyball. Our Open Boys Rugby League team has advanced to the Semi-Finals of the University Shield.

Special congratulations to Mika Harbour who competed at the NSW All Schools Swimming Championships in May. Mika came first in both the 200 IM and the 200 Breastroke. Congratulations, Mika!

It has been an action-packed term, and our teams have shown incredible talent, teamwork, and determination. Congratulations to both the students and staff who have been a part of these competitions.