From the Principal
Dear Parents/Caregivers, I hope you have had a wonderful week. Week 8 at Riverside has been another outstanding week. Principal’s Conference – Powerful Voices – their present, our future. I have just returned from an enriching, collegial three days participating in the annual NSW Secondary Principal’s Council Conference. This year the theme was Powerful Voices – their present, our future, a phrase coined by Professor Yong Zhao, Distinguished Professor of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies/Distinguished Professor in Educational Psychology at the University of Kansas. It was, as always, a wonderful opportunity to meet with colleagues from around the state to share their stories, ideas and initiatives. There were a few keynote speakers who provided inspiration for future directions and pedagogy at Riverside, including Dr Zhao; Grace Karskens, Australian historian and Professor of History at UNSW; Murat Dizdar and Prue Car MP Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Early Learning; with the highlight for me being, Ivan Cleary, coach of the Penrith Panthers, who spoke about a topic very close to my heart – the importance of leaders building a strong, cohesive culture in their team or organisation, with him sharing that the key to his success is a clear vision, trust and collaboration. Each speaker brought a breadth of knowledge and perspectives aligned to the theme and relevant across a variety of contexts, to encourage consideration and reflection for us as leaders in leading our young people into the future prepared as agile, adaptable, tech-literate critical thinkers. I learned that we have a school made up of Gen Alpha (with one cohort of Gen Z to finish) who, according to Macquarie University sociologist, demographer and futurist, Ashley Fell, is the first generation to grow up entirely in the 21st century, characterised by their digital nativity and unique upbringing influenced by technology and social media. This, of course, poses unique challenges to not only the students but also to their parents (you) and schools. We are determined to continue to build our culture of innovation and relevance to ensure that staff remain engaged with new ideas and technology when developing programs for the new curriculum, embedding learning experiences that create challenge in the depth of content as well as the skills embedded, to inspire deep student learning. Every professional learning experience is a good one if you are inspired to walk away and share your learning with staff to work to make Riverside a better place. I am also always grateful to the staff at Riverside, particularly Ms Gleeson and Ms Al-Anbagi, who relieved as Principal and DP, for allowing me the time and space to participate in this type of valuable professional learning opportunity. Academic Reports I continue to be delighted with the academic reports that are coming across my desk. The quality and calibre of our students never comes as a surprise to me; however, to learn of the academic pursuits and achievements of so many of our students, when formally reported on, brings a huge smile to my face. Congratulations to every student who has worked consistently and put in their best effort to produce the highest standard of results, as reflected in the half yearly reports. You should all be proud of yourselves and I think you deserve high praise from your parents and families. I always say to the year groups when I meet with them to hand out reports – read the feedback, learn from the advice and suggestions for improvement and if you can look at yourself in the mirror and know that you have done the best you can for the semester, then we applaud you. To those of you whose classroom application, commitment to completing coursework and assessments, and attendance needs to improve, now is the time. Year 8, 10, 12 Parent Teacher Night – Thursday 25 June 3:00-6:30pm If you are a parent of a Year 8, 10, 12 student, I hope you have booked your interviews to meet with your daughter’s teachers on Thursday 25 June. We look forward to seeing you there. Interviews for Years 7, 9, 11 will take place on Thursday 2 June 3:00-6:30pm. Please remember, that teachers have a very strict, 5-min schedule to adhere to. It is important that all parents listen to the bell and end their conversation when the bell goes, to make way for the next interview. We know you are all keen to speak with your daughter’s teachers and we know that your daughter is the most important person in the school (genuinely); however, all parents must have equal opportunity to discuss their important daughter with teachers by adhering to the time limit. Equally, if you have not been able to book in with a teacher, please do not try to casually speak with the teacher if you see them available – they are probably enjoying the opportunity to catch their breath, have a drink or just reflect on past conversations. We look forward to seeing you all on Thursday. P&C I would like to give a huge shout out to the P&C for all of their wonderful work for the school musical. We could not carry out all of the amazing extra-curricula activities without them and their fundraising and volunteering efforts. Thankyou to President Zoe and her magical team of dedicated parents. I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Louise McNeil Principal
Public Transport Announcements
Ripple Study Mentor Program
We're launching something new for our Year 7 and 8 students: the Ripple Study Mentor Program. This isn't about catching up. It's for students who want to become stronger, more independent learners. It's for students who are willing to sit with hard work, ask better questions, and grow. Sessions run every Tuesday after school from 3:10–4:00 PM, starting Week 6. Places are limited, so please complete the Google Form on Sentral and register your interest. 📚 Become a Better Learner.
Mindfulness Mondays
Co-curricula Activities
AFL NSW Secondary Schools Cup
This year, Riverside proudly returned to the AFL NSW Secondary Schools Cup for the first time in many years, entering both Junior (Years 7–9) and Senior (Years 10–12) teams. Following trials earlier in the year, students were selected to represent Riverside in their respective teams and embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm, commitment and school pride. Early in Term 2, the Senior Team, captained by Millie W. and Abby W., competed at the Harbour North Local Gala Day. The team produced an impressive performance, defeating Muirfield High School to progress to the Regional Playoffs. There, they faced a highly talented team from The Hills Sports High School's Talented Sports Program (TSP). Despite the challenging opposition, the girls demonstrated outstanding resilience, teamwork and determination throughout the match. While The Hills Sports High School were ultimately victorious, Riverside should be incredibly proud of the effort and sportsmanship displayed. On 1 June, our enthusiastic Junior Team, led by captain Skye L., attended their Local Gala Day. With only a handful of players having previous AFL experience, the team exceeded expectations. The girls quickly developed their skills, worked together brilliantly and were highly competitive against more experienced teams. Their efforts were rewarded with an impressive third-place finish overall. The AFL NSW Secondary Schools Cup has been a fantastic opportunity for students to challenge themselves, learn a new sport and represent Riverside with pride. The commitment, courage and positive attitude shown by both teams made this year's campaign a great success and has laid a strong foundation for future participation in the competition. Congratulations to all students involved. Ms S Nicol
Zone Cross Country Championships
On a very wet and challenging day, Monday 25 May, the Riverside Girls High School Cross Country team competed at the NWMG Zone Cross Country Championships at Meadowbank Park.
Despite the unfavourable weather conditions, all competitors represented Riverside with pride, determination and resilience, putting in outstanding performances across the day. Our 12 and 13-year-old athletes tackled the 3km course, while competitors in the 14 to 18 years age groups completed the demanding 4km course. A special congratulations goes to Lucy H (16 Years) and Eloise D (13 Years), who were both crowned Age Champions after winning their respective races — a fantastic achievement. Riverside also enjoyed strong overall team success, placing 3rd overall on the day. Twelve students have qualified to represent both Riverside Girls High School and the NWMG Zone at the Sydney North Cross Country Championships to be held at Wyong Racecourse on Friday 12 June. Qualifiers: 12 Years: Natale Y, Emily C, Sky P 13 Years: Eloise D, Pippa W 14 Years: Alma B, Emma L, Gwen BW 15 Years: Bella F, Zali C 16 Years: Lucy H 17+ Years: Isabelle B Congratulations to all competitors on their efforts and achievements. We wish our Sydney North representatives the very best of luck at the next level of competition. Ms S Nicol
NWMG Zone Athletics Championships
On Friday 5 June, the Riverside Girls High School Athletics Team proudly represented the school at the NWMG Zone Athletics Championships. Our students demonstrated outstanding athletic ability, determination and school spirit throughout the day, competing strongly across both track and field events.
Riverside was crowned Zone Champion School, a remarkable achievement that reflects the dedication and hard work of our athletes. An impressive 26 students qualified for the Sydney North Athletics Carnival, where they will represent both Riverside and the NWMG Zone in Week 2 of Term 3. The team achieved exceptional success in the relay events, securing Top 3 placings in all six 4 x 100m relays: 1st Place: 12 Years, 15 Years, 16 Years and 17+ Years 2nd Place: 14 Years 3rd Place: 13 Years
There were also several outstanding individual performances. Including Ellie VDP (Year 12), Jacqueline P (Year 10), Bella F (Year 9) and Emma L (Year 8) earning places among the zone's fastest athletes to complete in the 100m Open Zone Champion Race. And most impressively, Claire W (Year 8) broke the 14 Years Javelin Zone Record, an exceptional achievement. Riverside athletes also claimed three Age Champion titles: Natalie Y – 12 Years Age Champion Eloise D – 13 Years Age Champion Emma L – 14 Years Age Champion
Ms S Nicol
What an incredible week it was last week as our talented students brought ‘Peter Pan’ to life on stage! After two and a half months of rehearsals, students brought Neverland to life during five matinee performances, including a relaxed performance for our friends at Giant Steps, and three evening performances.
From the first scene in the Darling’s Nursery to the final curtain call, the cast captivated audiences with their outstanding performances, while the crew worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure smooth transitions and that every detail contributed to the magic of the production. The dedication, teamwork, and enthusiasm shown by all cast and crew throughout the rehearsal process was commendable, and their performances last week were a wonderful celebration of their hard work and talent.
We would like to thank our Riverside Community for their ongoing support of the production. Thanks to all staff who assisted with administration, supervision and ushering audience members into the hall. We would especially like to thank the P&C for their constant support and their financial assistance with the hiring of our costumes.
Although the performances were a wonderful showcase of student talent and dedication, the greatest success of the production was the friendships and supportive environment that emerged along the way. Students encouraged each other, celebrated each other's achievements, and grew in confidence as a team, and from feedback received from the cast and crew, it is clear that the friendships formed and the fun they had, will remain as memories for a long time.
This is what some students had to say about their involvement in the production of ‘Peter Pan’: “ I would describe this experience as being a safe, fun place where you can be yourself and have the best time.” Sienna “ Something I have learnt from being in the production is that it is not about remembering your lines exactly, it is about having fun and making memories along the way.” Olga “ It was my favourite thing I have ever done in school. I gained so many friendships and had an amazing experience.” Annabel “ The main thing I've learnt from the production is that hard things are the most rewarding, and with the right community around you you can really get through anything.” Quinn “ Every year when I’ve come to watch a production, I have always wondered how you all put on such an amazing performance, and for the first time was incredibly grateful that I was able to be a part of this experience, and play the most amazing role that I did.” Anabel “ Every year when I’ve come to watch a production, I have always wondered how you all put on such an amazing performance, and for the first time was incredibly grateful that I was able to be a part of this experience, and play the most amazing role that I did.” Anabel “ I've learnt many things from being in the production but most importantly, I've learned the importance of collaboration in theatre.” Macy “My experience of being in the production was 100% positive! It was my first time experiencing being in a play at Riverside, and my biggest highlight was performing to many people without being scared of messing up and having stage fright.” Sneha “ I learnt about how to help manage a wing, because as a stage hand it was mine and my friends responsibility to make sure everything was where it needed to be, either for a transition or for an actor to find and take onstage. I loved the way we knew where everything was and were always ready when something happened.” Olivia
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 Lemon and Ms T Soares
Dates for the diary
P&C
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