From the Principal
Dear Parents/Caregivers, I hope you have had a wonderful week. Year 7 Camp It was my pleasure to join Year 7 for a few hours at Camp yesterday. They were all having a wonderful time and the energy and cohesion of the groups was an absolute pleasure to share. Camps are an important part of the teaching and wellbeing program, particularly for Year 7. It gives the students a quality opportunity to bond and connect with one another as a cohort in a relaxed, outdoor setting away from the pressures of lessons and homework. The activities are designed to foster teamwork, communication and collaboration and drive a culture of encouragement and support amongst the students and staff. Not all students love taking risks or being put in a situation of fear but it is important that each student be challenged so that they may consider going beyond their comfort zone to prove to themselves that they can overcome challenge and uncertainty. You'll be pleased to hear that I took my own advice and jumped off the high pole and played some laser tag. The jump was thrilling, terrifying and exciting and I am very glad that I did it. It was certainly much easier to jump this time, having done it once before! Thankyou to Year 7 for welcoming me so warmly and thankyou to the wonderful staff who accompanied Year 7: Ms Hendriks, Mr Palmero, Ms Wong, Ms Aldred, Ms Thompson, Ms Eldridge, Ms Campbell and Tara. They will all sleep well tonight. Welcome to Year 7 Afternoon Tea It was wonderful to see so many of our Year 7 parents and students at our Welcome to Year 7 Afternoon Tea on Tuesday. We understand that the transition from primary to high school can often be as, if not more, challenging for parents who suddenly feel that they don’t experience the same level of connection with their daughter’s school as they did in primary school. This gathering is our attempt to provide the opportunity for parents and carers to at least put names to faces when their daughter is talking about their teachers. I hope everyone who attended found the event worthwhile. We certainly enjoyed it.
Numeracy Day Numeracy is a central focus of all teaching and learning at Riverside and to introduce our Year 7 students to the dynamic nature of numeracy across the curriculum, the Maths faculty created Numeracy Day, in collaboration with all faculties. Thankyou to every teacher who delivered the numeracy lesson for their curriculum area – the students were travelling around the school measuring ingredients in TAS, measuring their pulse in PDHPE, participating in numeracy skills in HSIE and many more numeracy-based activities. The feedback from the students was positive and they certainly appeared engaged and happy. The objective of the day is to inspire students to understand the value and diverse applications of numeracy in their daily learning, in an atmosphere of fun, to inspire all students to embrace numeracy through formal and informal instruction across the curriculum. Mock Trial Congratulations to Mr Andonov and his Mock Trial team for the valiant effort that they put up against Tangara this week. They won the case but not the points. A big thankyou to Mr Andonov for the time and energy that he puts into coaching these keen young future lawyers and advocates. It is a valuable part of our school extra curricula program and a wonderful real world learning experience to complement studies of Commerce and Legal Studies, but not exclusively so. Ignite Program Information Evening – Year 7 2027 There will be an information evening for the Ignite Program on Wednesday 1 April at 6:00pm in the school hall. Please pass this on to any friends or family who might be interested in seeking information about this HPGE program at Riverside for Year 7 2027. Registration is possible via a QR code on our Instagram. I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Louise McNeil Principal
Mindfulness Mondays
Faculty News
Maths
Year 7 Numeracy Day
This week’s Year 7 Numeracy Day at Riverside Girls High School was a vibrant and engaging celebration of numeracy across the curriculum. Students participated in a range of hands-on activities designed to highlight how numeracy skills are embedded in everyday learning across subjects such as Science, PDHPE, HSIE, CAPA and TAS. Throughout the day, students rotated through interactive sessions that brought numeracy to life. In TAS, students explored measurement by creating recipes and working with grams and millilitres. In PDHPE, they applied mathematical thinking to real-world contexts by calculating heart rates, measuring reaction times, and analysing agility test results. Meanwhile, HSIE activities challenged students to use grid references and data interpretation skills, while CAPA lessons encouraged creativity through pattern, scale and design. A highlight of the day was the collaborative nature of the activities, with students working in groups and engaging in problem-solving tasks such as games, puzzles and challenges. The Numeracy Day booklet guided students through each activity, reinforcing key concepts and encouraging reflection on how numeracy supports learning in all subject areas. Student reflections captured the spirit of the day perfectly, with many noting how surprising it was to see their numeracy skills applied in subjects like art and food technology. Others enjoyed the opportunity to work with new peers and experience learning in a different way.
Overall, Numeracy Day was a fantastic success, showcasing the importance of numeracy in developing confident, capable learners. A big thank you to our Numeracy Champions staff and year 7 students who contributed to making the day both educational and enjoyable.
TAS
Year 11 & 12 Design & Technology Excursion to SHAPE
Recently, our Year 11 and 12 Design & Technology students had the exciting opportunity to attend the SHAPE 2026 exhibition at the University of Technology Sydney. This annual showcase features exemplary Band 6 HSC Major Design Projects from across New South Wales, offering a valuable insight into the creativity, innovation, and technical skill of past HSC students.
Students also explored the wide variety of project categories available within the course, including architectural models, industrial product design, textile innovations, and more. Seeing these high-quality works up close gave students a clearer understanding of the expectations for their own Major Design Projects. It also allowed them to consider how their own designs can make a meaningful impact. We look forward to seeing how this experience influences their future project ideas and outcomes. Mr D Young
Year 11 Textiles Excursion - A Day of Inspiration and Industry Insight
Yesterday was a fantastic and enriching day for our Year 11 Textiles students as they immersed themselves in the world of design, craftsmanship, and industry practice.
We then made our way to Surry Hills, where students explored local warehouses, discovering a variety of affordable materials and resources available to support their design journeys.
The day concluded with a special visit to CUE Clothing and Veronica Maine, where students were warmly welcomed by Hannah Robinson (Class of 2019), one of our Riverside alumni. Hannah generously guided students through the cutting room, design studio, and sample room, offering a valuable real-world insight into the fashion industry. Having a Bachelor of Criminology also under her belt this goes to show a Riverside girl can do anything.
Most significantly, Hannah donated a generous collection of ribbons, fabrics, and notions to support our school’s textiles program. These materials will be used in our Year 8 sustainable bag project and have effectively enabled the entire cohort to access high-quality resources. This contribution supports a more equitable learning experience for all students, while strengthening our program’s focus on sustainability and the purposeful reuse of textile materials.
It was a wonderful example of a Riverside sister supporting the next generation, and we are incredibly grateful for Hannah’s ongoing connection to and support of our school community.
Science
VALID 8 and VALID 10 Science Examinations
Students Recognised for Outstanding Achievement in Science Assessments A number of students were recently celebrated for their exceptional performance in the VALID 8 and VALID 10 Science examinations, with certificates presented to acknowledge their outstanding achievements. Although the examinations were conducted last year, the successful recipients are now in Year 9 and Year 11. Their results reflect both their strong scientific understanding and their commitment to academic excellence. VALID, which stands for Validation of Assessment for Learning and Individual Development, is a statewide assessment program designed to evaluate student learning in Science at the end of each stage. The assessments are closely aligned with the Science syllabus and measure what students know and can do across a range of scientific concepts and skills. The awards recognise students who achieved first, second and third place within their respective year groups. These high-performing students have demonstrated not only content knowledge, but also the ability to apply scientific thinking and problem-solving skills effectively. All students are encouraged to carefully analyse their individual reports, which have been sent to their parents via email. By reflecting on their strengths and areas for improvement, they can use this feedback to set SMART goals and guide their future progress in Science. The school community congratulates all award recipients on their impressive accomplishments and looks forward to their continued success.
Yr 8 VALID Evelyn W - first place Katherine H- second place Chloe Y - equal second place Charlotte R - third place Yr 10 VALID 2024 Mackenzie M - first place Sophie K - second place Jordan I - third place Ms A Nikic
International Students
Welcome Lunch for International Students - Harmony Week 2026
Every year we have a Welcome Lunch for our new and returning international students. It is an opportunity to say a very heartfelt welcome and thank you to our 21 international students for choosing Riverside Girls High School as their home away from home. It is only fitting that we celebrate these brave young women during Harmony Week this year as they have left friends and family behind in countries such as China, Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines and Germany to study here in Australia. The resilience and courage of our international students must always be recognised. Tackling the challenges of navigating life and study without the support and presence of family and loved ones, which is the case for many of our international students, is a difficult journey to undertake, but we hope our international students all feel a strong sense of belonging in the short time they have been with us. Their dedication and commitment to learning, willingness to try new experiences, their talent in the creative arts, preparedness to call out prejudice, their positive attitude despite overwhelming workloads in an additional language and sense of humour are traits that inspire their peers and teachers every day. Our lunch on Wednesday 18th March indeed celebrated the strengths of our international student cohort and together with their local student friends, the welcome party represented the values of belonging and harmony that we are so proud of at Riverside. A special thank you must also be expressed to all Riverside teachers who work tirelessly to help all students at Riverside, but who pay extra special attention to the needs our international students by supporting their emotional wellbeing and academic successes. Thank you to Bel and Joyce for always assisting with the catering and seamlessly supporting these wonderful wellbeing events. M Peterson and M Sendov
Co-curricula Activities
Emerging Matildas Tournament
Huge congratulations to our incredible student Lucy H (Year 10) on being selected in the Emerging Matildas tournament ⚽💚💛 This is an outstanding achievement and a testament to your talent, dedication and hard work. We are so proud to see you representing at such a high level and can't wait to follow your journey. Lucy will be going into camp at the Home of the Matildas in the holidays.
Pulse Alive 2026
We have had great Riverside representation at this year’s Pulse Alive concerts held on the 18, 19 and 20 March at the Ken Rosewall Arena, Sydney Olympic Park. Pulse Alive brings together students from NSW Public Schools in a showcase of singers, actors, dancers and musicians in the performing arts. Successful students are accepted through an audition process, and commit to a rigorous rehearsal schedule in the lead up to the spectacular production.
We would like to congratulate the outstanding performances of the following students in Pulse Alive 2026: Millennium Marching Band - Olivia S (Year 8) Drama Ensemble & Millennium Marching Band - Amelia K (Year 9) Drama Ensemble - Kira S (Year 9) Millennium Marching Band (Clarinet) - Sophie K (Year 11) Principal Vocalist - Kiana K (Year 12) Showband (Cello) - Jasmine K (Year 12) Showband (Viola) - Elise H (Year 12) Showband (Violin) - Hannah P (Year 12) “Pulse was an amazing experience. Throughout my five years of being involved, I’ve made many memories and valuable friendships. The experience itself was unforgettable and something I will remember for a long time to come.” - Hannah P (Year 12)
Ms C Wang
OzTag Regional Championships
Riverside proudly sent three teams —Years 7–8, Years 9–10, and Years 11–12 — to the OzTag Regional Championships at North Manly, earlier this month. All teams rose to the challenge, competing with impressive integrity, determination, and skill despite the tough heat throughout the day. Each squad demonstrated strong teamwork and resilience, producing consistent performances across their pool matches. Their efforts were rewarded as all three teams progressed to the semi‑finals, an outstanding achievement in a highly competitive field. Although the semi‑finals didn’t fall our way, the players represented Riverside with pride and sportsmanship from start to finish. The experience has set a solid foundation for future success, and we look forward to further opportunities later in the year to continue developing our skills and building strong team performances.
Well done to all players and staff involved. Ms Nagle & Ms Eldridge
Open Touch Football - Match Report
Our open touch football team delivered an outstanding performance in their clash against Manly, securing a dominant 8–0 victory. The result was built on a strong all‑round team effort, showcasing impressive speed, skill, and cohesion across the field. The team was expertly led by Estelle M, our team captain and RGHS sports captain, whose vision and playmaking set up many of the tries and kept the momentum firmly in our favour. Tries were scored by Bronte N, Lucy H, Estelle M, Millie W and Mataya J. With this win, the team now progresses to the Round of 16. Congratulations girls on a fantastic result and well‑deserved success! Ms T Nagle
School Production: Peter Pan
Peter Pan Rehearsal Update
Over the past two weeks, rehearsals have continued every Wednesday and Thursday after school for the cast of ‘Peter Pan’. The rehearsals have been going really well, with the cast taking direction well, developing their characterisation and contributing their own ideas to the blocking of the scenes on stage. At our rehearsals, we have blocked most of the scenes in the play, including some of the larger scenes with the Pirates, Lost Boys, Bravehearts, Mermaids and Fairies all attending rehearsals.
When asked why they auditioned to be in the play, this is what some of the members of the cast said:
Because I love acting, performing and my past experiences with RGHS productions have been amazing. We have a great performing culture here and some of my closest friends have been made through the productions. Both the performing and the social aspects are fantastic and super positive. Harper
I love to act and really enjoyed watching the production last year and wanted to give it a go. Gwen
I auditioned for the play this year, because I was in the cast for the last two productions and had the absolute time of my life (especially playing King Triton last year in the Little Mermaid). The school productions are always my favourite part of the year, and I just couldn't wait to do it all again for the final time this year. Quinn
I have done it since year 7 and I think it's a great way to make new friends and feel confident on stage. Alma
I love theatre and acting so much. It also builds my confidence and helps me create new friends. Macy
As we continue rehearsals, excitement is mounting and we can’t wait to share this magical production with the entire school community in Week 7 of next term.
Open Netball - Match Report
The Open Netball Team delivered a commanding performance last Friday at the Ryde Aquatic and Leisure Centre, securing an emphatic 81–19 victory over Concord High School. From the opening whistle, the team displayed exceptional control, accuracy, and intensity, combining sharp passing with confident shooting to dominate all four quarters. Their cohesion across the court and relentless defensive pressure created turnover after turnover, allowing the attacking end to convert with impressive consistency. It was a complete team effort, showcasing both discipline and flair. With such a resounding win, the team continues to build strong momentum for the season ahead. Congratulations to all players on an outstanding result!
Vaccination Consent
NAIDOC Week
Poster Design Competition
All students are to submit their entries to Ms Ghorra in the library and she will post them to the coordination centre.
Careers
Please visit https://riversideghscareers.com/ for the latest information on careers and life beyond school. You can use this site to locate universities, TAFE and any other type of course across Australia, information about the HSC and job vacancies. Feel free to drop into the Careers office if you have any questions.
Ms J Low and Ms T Soares
Dates for the diary
P&C
Save the Date - Second Hand Uniform Shop Friday 8 May - 1:15pm - 1:55pm
If you would like to volunteer for various P&C activities, please sign up via the link below.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHE1OojbX6yWoo85D7kbRofz_1TmQOixDenmj-b-AkkxoJ4Q/viewform
Community Notices
Calling all creative students!
Ready to write, sing, and connect with nature? Join us for the Bush Studio Songbirds Camp — an unforgettable music immersion for public high school students (Years 7–12) at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park! Students will work directly with Rachel Collis, an accomplished songwriter, vocal artist, and Creative Director of the NSW Public Schools Sydney North Singers. When: 31st August – 1st September 2026 Where: Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park (Gibberagong EEC) Register here: Bush Studio Songbirds Camp To see what else Gibberagong EEC can offer your school visit our website: Gibberagong EEC We look forward to working your students at this inspiring bush immersion music experience!