Volume Nine, Friday 26th June 2026

Greetings,

Thomas Edison said that he did not fail at making the light bulb one thousand times, but rather that “the light bulb was an invention with 1,000 steps.”[1] 

Michael Jordan said “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve also lost more than 300 games. I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot 26 times and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. That is why I succeed.”[2]

Making mistakes is a natural part of learning and a natural part of life.

Research shows that mistakes are a very important part of learning. When a person makes a mistake and they have the opportunity to learn from it, they actually develop a much deeper understanding. In fact, research states that students learn more from making mistakes than from getting all the right answers. When a student makes a mistake, it offers insight into what understanding the student has or does not have. It allows teachers to talk to students and guide their thinking. Feedback and feedforward are the two most significant high impact variables after student teacher relationships and explicit instruction, that correlate with improved student outcomes. An attitude that values learning from mistakes leads to deeper learning, and resilience for whatever life brings. 

What I remain committed to is that if our young people leave Oakhill College at the end of Year 12 well rounded and grounded through a breadth of curricular and co-curricular experiences, AND have the can-do attitude and ethic, are inspired to always learn from their mistakes and achieve their best, then they will be ready and able to learn what is required, whenever they are required to. A positive attitude and can-do spirit are essential attributes at the core of the Oakhill Graduate.

This term I have continued to walk through classes and every day in every lesson I am always amazed by teachers teaching and engaging students and students engaged in learning, experienced and articulate in the metalanguage of the subject discourse. For example, in Year 7, ask your son about what they have learnt about poetry and about their Sonnet. I follow students on the Reading Boost program and am only convinced that these young men and woman will go on to great things because of their uptake in such rich and diverse reading from the Reading List. I watch team’s week in week out, some winning every time, some never winning but, in both cases, all happy to be there, ready to listen and learn and try again next week. Remarkable stuff.

Thank you all for your wonderful children and your amazing support of the College. Wishing you well and all God’s blessings. I look forward to the students returning refreshed for another challenging term as we start Semester Two (Term Three) on Monday 20th July.

Br Steve Hogan fsc
Principal

[1] http://www.thomasedison.com/qu...
[2] https://www.brainyquote.com/li...

Forgiveness is the most radical and difficult of Jesus’s teaching. Its absence in our world has led to untold suffering that we see played out in world affairs.

Forgiveness runs against so many ingrained tendencies in our nature.

I hope some of the following reflections might help in giving forgiveness a go in your own lives.

When Jesus calls his disciples to love their enemies, he is not speaking about emotions or feelings.

He is speaking about an act of the will. Christian love is not sentimental.

It means choosing not to hate, refusing to seek vengeance, resisting bitterness, and continuing to recognise the dignity of the other person.

To love an enemy does not mean approving of what they have done; it means refusing to allow darkness to have the final word in our own hearts.

Please pray for Ms Meghna Karanam Chandamarai (Mathematics teacher) whose mother passed away on Sunday. 

Eternal rest grant to her O’ Lord.
May the celestial lights shine for ever upon her.
May she rest in peace.
Amen

Thank you to all the Oakhill College students and staff who regularly volunteer for the Vinnies Van service.

This week wrapped up our final roster for Term 2. Incredible work by everyone involved in supporting our local community this term.

According to statistics from the United Nations Refugee Agency an unprecedented 117.8 million people around the world have been forced from home. Among them are nearly 45 million refugees under the age of 18 with 2.4 million babies born a refugee. Nestory Irankunda was born in a Tanzanian refugee camp after his parents fled civil war in Burundi. His family resettled in Australia as asylum seekers when he was just three months old, eventually settling in Adelaide. His remarkable journey has taken him from local football in South Australia to the top tiers of global football and the Socceroos' FIFA World Cup campaign.

A group of senior students spent last week making a difference by participating in the Act for Peace – Ration Challenge. Fifty people volunteered to ‘walk in the shoes’ of a refugee for a week under the banner of OAKHILL4HUMAN RIGHTS. To show refugees we are with them – this group challenged themselves for a three-day period eating the same rations that a refugee would. Students fundraised by buying their ration pack through the school with profits going the National Council of Churches Australia. This money will go towards providing food aid to the most vulnerable as well as hygiene kits, medical help and psychosocial support. 

Importantly, we all need to be educated on the alarming issues in our world and as a Christian Lasallian community pray for all those living in crisis.

Mr Chris Goodman
Director of Mission

Since the creation of the College AI Policy in 2025, Oakhill has made great strides in navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of generative technology. As part of our commitment to keeping you informed, we want to share a brief update on how these tools are being utilised at the College, important security reminders and how you can support your child's learning boundaries at home.

Guardrails, Security, and Important Account Protocols

As tech companies update their software, our AI Steering Committee set up in 2023 continuously monitors which platforms align with our privacy and data security standards. Please note the following critical updates regarding tools and access:

• Approved and Integrated Tools: AI features that are embedded within existing, school-approved educational platforms and websites are permitted. Our primary supported standalone tools remain Business Enterprise versions of Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot.
• New Restrictions: Claude AI has been added to our list of unauthorised tools and is not permitted for student use. This is due to their privacy settings.
• Mandatory School Accounts: It is important that students only access approved AI tools (Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot) via their official school-managed accounts. Students must not use personal accounts, VPNs, or mobile hotspots to bypass school networks. Using non-managed accounts or network workarounds creates significant data privacy and security risks for both the student and the College network. Students caught choosing to not follow these instructions face significant consequences.

AI as a Study Tool

We are seeing creative uses of AI by students using it as a personal study partner. For example, many students are successfully using approved platforms to generate practice quizzes, test their knowledge, and receive instant feedback on their study notes.

However, we want to emphasise a crucial boundary to both students and parents: AI is a tool for learning, not a tool for thinking.

While an AI can grade a practice quiz, large language models do not truly understand the specific nuances of the NESA/NSW syllabus or our internal marking criteria. The guidance, feedback and expertise of our Oakhill staff always take priority over any feedback or information an AI provides. Students should use AI to help them understand concepts, but never rely on it as the final authority on how to complete an assessment.

Policy Continuity and Academic Integrity

Our current policy is serving the College well, with no major changes to our academic integrity checkpoints at this stage. However, with the landscape constantly changing, the policy is currently scheduled annually for formal review to ensure it continues to protect and benefit our community including our students. Teachers will continue to use standard monitoring, draft checkpoints, and oral reflections (viva voce) to ensure all submitted work genuinely reflects a student's own learning and authentic understanding.

How You Can Help at Home

We encourage you to check in with your child about their AI habits by keeping these simple talking points in mind:

• Ask about the Oakhill College traffic light system: When they start a new assignment, ask your child: "Is this a Red, Orange, or Green task?" (this can be found on all of their assessment notifications).
• Keep it syllabus-focused: Remind your child that their teacher's instructions are the ultimate blueprint for success, not an AI's suggestions.
• Encourage active learning: Remind your child that using AI to explain a tricky concept is great, but using it to write a paragraph for them stops them from developing the very skills they need to succeed in their exams.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership as we work together to ensure our students use technology ethically, safely, and effectively to maximise their potential.

Ms Zehra Canik
AI Committee Member and Teacher

Join us in congratulating Nickie Wickert, who has received the 2026 Castle Hill Rotary Club Excellence in Teaching Award.

With 31 years of dedicated Lasallian service to Oakhill College, Nickie has consistently demonstrated outstanding commitment to students, colleagues and the broader community. As a teacher, coach, mentor and Academic Head of PDHPE, she works tirelessly to foster a strong student focus, empowering young people to strive for excellence in and beyond the classroom.

Nickie's impact extends far beyond teaching. As the first captain of the Australian Women’s Rugby Union team and a respected coach, she has modelled leadership, perseverance, talent and integrity at the highest level. She has represented Australia on the national stage and has been a powerful advocate for girls’ sport, championing participation and leadership opportunities for students.

Her ability to translate these qualities into education has made a lasting contribution to the formation of students, particularly in promoting respect, teamwork and leadership through sport.

Highly regarded by colleagues, Nickie is known for her professionalism, empathy and collaborative approach, which has built a culture of excellence within Oakhill and the wider College community.

This recognition reflects not only her exceptional contribution to education, but also her influence as a role model in sport and leadership. A truly well deserved and humbly received honour.

Mrs Gabby Russo
Head of Marketing & Communications

To assist with planning for 2027, please find below important dates for next year:

Term 1 (11 Weeks)

Monday 18th January - College Office Reopens
Monday  25th January - New Staff Orientation, Year 11 Girls and Years 8 -11 New Boys Orientation, Senior and Middle Management Meeting
Tuesday 26th January - Australia Day Public Holiday
Wednesday 27th January - All Teaching Staff Commence
Friday 29th January - Term 1 Commences for Students in Years 7 and 11
Monday 1st February - Term 1 Commences for Students in Years 8, 9, 10 and 12
Thursday 25th March - School Concludes for Easter Weekend
Friday 26th March - Good Friday Public Holiday
Sunday 28th March -  Easter Sunday Public Holiday
Monday 29th March - Easter Monday Public Holiday
Tuesday 30th March - School Resumes
Friday 9th April - Term 1 Concludes

Term 2 (9 Weeks)

Monday 26th April - ANZAC Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 27th April - Term 2 Commences
Monday 14th June - Monarch’s Birthday Public Holiday
Friday 25th June -  Term 2 Concludes

Term 3 (10 Weeks)

Monday 19th July - Term 3 Commences
Thursday 23rd September - Term 3 Concludes for Students
Friday 24th September - Term 3 Concludes for Staff

Term 4 (9 Weeks)

Monday 11th October - Term 4 Commences
Friday 3rd December - Term 4 Concludes for Students in Year 10
Tuesday 7th December - Term 4 Concludes for Students in Years 7, 8, 9 and 11
Wednesday 8th December - Term 4 Concludes for Staff

Mr Robert Munday
Deputy Principal

Financial support is essential to the continued success of Oakhill College. We encourage all members of the Oakhill College community to support the Building Fund through regular annual contributions. All donations to the Oakhill College Building Fund are tax-deductible. Every individual contribution adds up to something bigger, meaning we can bring large scale projects to life. We can all make a difference here at the College in providing the best possible facilities and resources for teaching and learning; for both today’s students and the next generation. 

You can make a tax-deductible gift to the Oakhill College Building Fund by visiting http://www.schooleasypay.com.a... and select Voluntary Building Fund Donation, or if you would like to discuss a particular contribution, please contact Br Steve Hogan fsc (Principal). When making your donation, please enter the Record ID as your year of graduation or the year of your youngest child’s graduation. If you are a current parent, please use your Family ID from your College Fees Statement. You will automatically be sent a receipt in acknowledgement of your generous donation, in time as the financial year finishes next Tuesday. 

For more information, please contact me on 9634 0801 or email eforrest@oakhill.nsw.edu.au. This is an opportunity to live out our Lasallian tradition – “Enter to Learn. Leave to Serve”.

Mrs Elke Forrest
Business Manager

A reminder that the second instalment for 2026 fees (one third of your annual fees) was due on Friday 15th May unless you pay in instalments via School Easy Pay.

Fee statements were issued prior to the beginning of term.

Could you please organise payment if not already made or contact the Accounts Receivable Office on 9899 2288 if there are any matters relating to your statement that you need to discuss.

Ms Lisa Camilleri
Accounts Receivable 

Oakhill College is seeking the support of our community to assist with the purchase of a 12-seater new or near new van, to be used for student transport across a wide range of programmes and activities.

Following the loss of our previous van due to an accident, this vehicle is important to ensure the safe and efficient movement of students to sporting fixtures, co-curricular activities, retreats, outreach programmes and wellbeing initiatives. It would also provide greater access for students to participate in opportunities beyond the classroom.

We are asking for any assistance from sponsors or organisations through partnership or contribution towards this important resource. 

If you are able to assist, or would like further information, please contact Br Steve Hogan fsc email: enquiries@oakhill.nsw.edu.au.

The College has received feedback from local residents regarding parking congestion and unsafe driving behaviours occurring before and after school by some of our students.

While students are ultimately responsible for their behaviour once they leave school grounds, we remain committed to educating them about respectful conduct and safe decision‑making within the wider community. This includes safe driving, courteous behaviour, and thoughtful use of surrounding residential streets.

As part of our ongoing pastoral and wellbeing programs, including initiatives such as the You Choose Program and sessions with our Youth Police Liaison Officer, students are regularly reminded about road safety and the importance of representing the College positively. The College again will speak directly with Year 12 at their next cohort meeting, and we ask parents to also work in partnership with the College, and the local community by having conversations around responsible driving, respectful behaviour in residential areas, and parking considerately.

We encourage students to make use of the parking area near the reserve on Womurrung Avenue, as a better option than the busy residential streets. Please see map below. The College values its strong relationship with our neighbours, and we remain committed to working together to ensure our local area is safe and respectful.

Ms Deborah Gillis
Assistant Principal Pastoral Care

School Holiday Gym Access

The Oakhill College Gym will be open to registered members throughout the school holidays.

Operating holiday hours are: Monday - Friday 8.00am - 11.00am only.

This is a great opportunity for students to maintain their training, prepare for upcoming sporting commitments, and stay active during the break.

Term 3 Memberships Now Open

Registrations for Term 3 gym memberships are now officially open. As a bonus you can access the gym these holidays. To activate a membership please do so via the TASS Parent Portal. 

For further information please click here: https://www.oakhill.nsw.edu.au...

Mr Murray Fisher
Head of Sports

Oakhill College is seeking alumni or parent assistance for the next Oakhill College Careers Breakfast to be held on Wednesday 26th August from 7.00am to 8.45am.

Career areas of focus will be:

• Psychology
• Social Work
• Counselling
• Community/Disability Services
• Social Science/Sociology 

If you can assist by joining the alumni/parents/friends panel it would be greatly appreciated. These breakfasts help students learn more about the opportunities available in these fields. 

For more information on how you can join the panel please contact Marisa Quattrocchi - Careers marisaq@oakhill.nsw.edu.au or careers@oakhill.nsw.edu.au.

Mrs Marisa Quattrocchi
Careers Advisor

Today, Year 12 were lucky enough to have the opportunity for Chris Temebeleski from Rubix Learning to deliver a presentation on maximising their potential for the HSC. The talk focused on handling the dual loads of current and future content, maintaining a positive wellbeing, and potential pathways for study after school. Chris’ large social media presence of upwards of 300,000 followers across platforms, coupled with his interactive approach to presenting, created an intriguing and effective means of captivating the students which made for a widely successful initiative. A standout moment from the presentation was his engaging Michael Jordan analogy, proving the same content and hours of study doesn't equal the same results for each person. This reinforced the value of exam execution, providing the students with study techniques and tricks to improve their approach for the upcoming trials and HSC exams.

Oakhill is privileged to be a part of Chris’ mission to speak at every school in NSW,  as we signed off on behalf of the College on his large ‘scroll’. The large turnout of students at the commencement of his presentation, is an ode to the immense value of his presentation, inquiring into Chris’ knowledge and taking photos with him.

As we reflect on Chris’ talk, we hope our Year 12 cohort received the motivation to work together as one team with the hopes to achieve our goal of 90 students to receive an ATAR over 90, in celebration of the College’s 90th year of Lasallian education.

A massive thank you again to Chris Temebeleski from Rubix Learning.

Talia McDonald and Lachlan Holden, Academic Captains

Learning a language is far more than just memorising vocabulary, it is a gateway to cognitive growth, cultural empathy, and global citizenship. At Oakhill College, our Languages program is intentionally designed to be dynamic, supportive, and deeply immersive.

Choosing a language offers students significant advantages that extend well beyond the classroom walls:

• Cognitive Brain Training - Learning a second language expands working memory, sharpens problem-solving skills, and enhances overall mental flexibility.
• Smaller Class Sizes - Our language elective classes offer a lower student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for individualised attention and collaborative peer learning.
• Cultural Exploration - Students don't just learn how to speak; they explore why cultures shape the world the way they do, fostering a broader worldview.

A Day in Stage 5 French: Active Learning

If you walk into a Stage 5 French classroom at Oakhill College, you will rarely see students passively reading from a textbook. Instead, our lessons are alive with role play, collaboration, gamification, and interactive digital platforms that make language acquisition natural and engaging.

We regularly use movement-based and social games to review vocabulary and master complex grammar principles without the stress of traditional rote learning. These include:

One Pen, One Die and Snakes and Ladders- High-energy games that turn syntax and conjugation into friendly, competitive races.

Listening Bingo and Running Dictation- Dynamic activities that get students out of their seats, combining physical movement with auditory and written processing.

To support every learner, we use structural Sentence Builders. This methodology allows students to learn French through "chunking" - grouping words into functional phrases rather than translating word-for-word. This framework builds immediate confidence and consolidates all four core language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Oakhill College modernises language acquisition by leveraging the best educational technology platforms:

• Students complete tailored interactive tasks for each unit via Education Perfect.
• Daily drills and revision take place on platforms like Quizlet, Wordwall, Gimkit, and Kahoot.
• Our students frequently test their skills against peers in class, school, and even worldwide competitions hosted through Education Perfect.
  

Language cannot exist without culture. At Oakhill College, we ensure the French language leaps off the page through rich cultural lessons, marking global events like the Tour de France, Eurovision, Bastille Day, and the World Cup.

The ultimate highlight of the Stage 5 experience is stepping outside the classroom to apply these skills in the real world. Our students enjoy immersive excursions, visiting the Alliance Française, Italian and French Film festivals to engage with native speakers, followed by an authentic culinary experience.

At Oakhill College, French is not just a subject on a timetable, it is a vibrant, living experience that equips young men and women with skills for life.

Ms Darija Egic
Academic Head of Languages

On Friday, 5 June, Year 12 Ancient and Modern History students attended the HTA Study Day at the University of Sydney, joining hundreds of senior History students from across New South Wales. Hosted by the History Teachers’ Association NSW (HTA), the event provided a valuable opportunity for students to engage with experienced historians, HSC markers and subject experts in preparation for their upcoming examinations.

Throughout the day, students participated in a range of lectures and workshops tailored to both Ancient and Modern History courses. Sessions focused on key syllabus content, essay-writing techniques, source analysis skills and effective strategies for success in the HSC. Students benefited from practical advice and expert insights designed to strengthen their understanding and refine their examination preparation.

The experience also offered students a glimpse into university life, with sessions held in historic lecture theatres and opportunities to connect with peers from other schools who share a passion for History. The atmosphere of academic engagement and collaboration made for a rich and rewarding learning experience.

We extend our thanks to Mr Patrick Balzen and Ms Gloria Richards for accompanying the students and supporting them throughout the day. Experiences such as the HTA Study Day play an important role in extending students’ learning beyond the classroom and fostering their confidence and achievement in History.

Mrs Gloria Richards
Academic Head of History

This term, Year 11 Ancient History students have been exploring one of ancient Egypt's most fascinating and sacred practices, the art of mummification. As part of our study, the class undertook a hands-on practical that brought the process to life.

Two student volunteers took turns as the deceased, while others took on the roles of priests wearing Anubis masks, working methodically through the steps of preparing a body for the afterlife. Using salt to replicate the natron drying process and shredded paper as a substitute for packing materials, the priests placed organs into 3D printed canopic jars and arranged amulets alongside the body, replicating the protective objects central to Egyptian burial practice. Finally, linen sheets and toilet paper were used to recreate the intricate resin-soaked bandaging of the final wrapping stage.

The atmosphere was completed by emitting frankincense, echoing the sacred incense used throughout ancient Egyptian ritual and transporting the classroom back to the banks of the Nile.

The practical gave students a memorable, immersive understanding of the religious significance and precise craftsmanship behind ancient Egyptian funerary traditions.

Ilia Sveronis, Year 11

We are delighted to share an exciting milestone in our VET Pathways and Food Technology programs - the completion and launch of our newly upgraded, fully commercial-grade Hospitality and Food Technology Suite. This investment represents far more than a physical transformation; it is a significant step forward in delivering industry-relevant, authentic learning experiences for all students studying VET Hospitality and Food Technology.

The newly upgraded kitchens have been designed to mirror real-world hospitality environments, incorporating industry-standard equipment, professional workflows, and rigorous safety features. These include stainless steel workstations, high-capacity combi ovens, blast chiller, commercial freestanding planetary mixer, grill and deep-frying stations, commercial refrigeration, and a fully functioning café space. Every element has been carefully selected to reflect the expectations students will encounter in contemporary commercial kitchens.

This authentic environment enables both VET Hospitality and Food Technology students to develop technical and practical skills in a space that not only looks but functions like the workplace, moving beyond simulated or scaled-down settings into an environment aligned with current industry standards. This alignment strengthens authentic training and assessment practices by ensuring that learning tasks reflect real world applications and expectations. Students are now able to demonstrate their learning through practical, real-world tasks such as planning and delivering service, working collaboratively, managing time pressures, and producing dishes to commercial standards, providing a richer and more accurate picture of student capability that captures both technical skills and essential employability attributes.

Since the introduction of the upgraded facilities, there has been a noticeable increase in student engagement and motivation across all year levels. The professional setting fosters a strong sense of pride and responsibility, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning while developing confidence and independence in the kitchen.

Students, particularly those in VET Hospitality, report increased confidence when transitioning into work placement and part-time employment. Familiarity with commercial equipment, workflows, and expectations helps reduce anxiety and allows students to integrate more smoothly into workplace environments. At the same time, Food Technology students benefit from early exposure to industry quality facilities, building foundational skills that support future pathway choices.

Looking ahead, the upgraded kitchens open exciting opportunities for further growth. Future plans include expanding Year 8 Technology to include a dedicated Food Technology unit, increasing service based learning opportunities, integrating cross-disciplinary projects, and hosting College events where students can showcase their skills in authentic service contexts.

The new Hospitality and Food Technology Suites are more than just facilities, they are a catalyst for deeper learning, stronger industry connections, and improved student outcomes across both VET Hospitality and Food Technology.

This transformation has been made possible through the commitment and collaboration of The Oakhill College Board, Br Steve, RORIG, and all partners involved in the design and construction. It reflects a shared dedication to delivering high-quality, future-focused learning experiences for every student.

We look forward to seeing our students continue to thrive in this dynamic and professional learning environment!

Ms Heidi McKay
Academic Head of VET

Last Friday, 26th June we had the privilege of attending the biology excursion at the University of NSW Museum of Disease to accompany our current study of infectious and non-infectious disease. We began the excursion with a lecture presented by Ms Jo Dable, the museum team leader. The presentation included insights into a healthy liver and a liver affected by cirrhosis, the impacts of liver failure on an individual's way of life, plaque development in the aortic arch, and the visual damage to the lungs as a result of tuberculosis. The lecture was highly informative and engaging, tying in deeply with our syllabus and applicable understanding of infectious and non infectious disease.

Following the lecture, we were given the chance to view the museum which showcased numerous preserved human specimens of body parts and organs impacted by disease alongside fact sheets and infographics which explained some cases in more depth. In the museum, we completed a worksheet that required us to analyse
certain specimens to find answers that directly linked to our biology syllabus, deepening our understanding of disease. The specimens dated as far back to 1898
and were as complex as developmental mutations within reproductive organs.

We are exceptionally grateful to experience such valuable and memorable enrichment to our understanding of biology, and we highly encourage students to pursue the opportunity if they get the chance.

Ashlyn Kumar and Jude O’Donnell, Year 12 Captains

Year 7 recently took part in their Reflection Day, centred on the theme “Building Community”. Throughout the day, students explored what it means to truly belong, recognising how a trusting and supportive community allows every person to grow with confidence. They reflected on the ways strong relationships lead to practical contributions that help a community flourish. Woven through each activity were our Lasallian values of faith, service, and community, encouraging every student to consider how they can actively live these out in their daily interactions and help shape a community where all feel welcomed and valued.

Mrs Roxanne Leopardi
Assistant Director of Mission

Following prior consultation regarding changes to the path of School Bus 5105, 5604 and Route 679, Busways and TfNSW have revised the path changes to align with concerns raised from the feedback received regarding McClymonts Rd which will commence Monday 20th July 2026 as detailed below and maps are available here.

The updated timetable on Busways website (Select the link next to your school labelled “New Timetable” )

Plan your trip for real-time up to date information – new timetable data for these trips will be available from Monday 6th July 2026.

School Bus 5105
Morning Route 679
Afternoon 679
School Bus 5604

The 2026 chess season has been a dynamic and rewarding year for our Oakhill College players. Students have continued to demonstrate focus, strategic thinking, and resilience during both training sessions and competition evenings held across schools within the North West Division.

This year, our chess community has shown impressive growth in competition results. We extend our commendation to Oakhill Junior A, who achieved an outstanding second place in the North West Junior Division, a testament to their commitment and steady improvement throughout the season.

Congratulations to the following players for their achievements this season: Oakhill Junior A - Anay Parwal, Aaryan Joshi, Aaron Tambrin, Smyan Patel and Ansh Bohidar.

Individual players have also made significant progress, building confidence at the board and strengthening their tactical understanding.

Beyond results, it has been especially encouraging to see the camaraderie and sportsmanship within the group. Experienced players have supported newer members, creating a positive and collaborative environment that reflects the values of the College.

We are proud of the dedication and enthusiasm shown by all students involved in chess this year and look forward to continuing this momentum into future seasons.

Thank you to every player for representing Oakhill College with excellence.

Social Chess Club continues in DE101 on Fridays at lunchtime.

Ms Caitlin Latty
Chess Co‑ordinator

On Sunday 21st June, the spotlight burned bright at the iconic Enmore Theatre as Oakhill College’s Intermediate Theatresports team took to the stage for the Theatresports Schools Challenge Grand Final competing against the very best schools across New South Wales. Facing powerhouse institutions including Presbyterian Ladies’ College, William Clarke College, St Aloysius College, The Hunter School of the Performing Arts, Shore, Newington College, and St Augustine College, the stakes were high and the energy was electric.

From the very first round, the competition was fierce. Schools battled it out with quick thinking and comedic flair, most earning consistent scores in the 3–4 range. However, The Hunter School of the Performing Arts made an early statement, securing a standout score of 5 and seizing the lead.

Undeterred, Oakhill rose to the challenge in Round 2 with a strong and steady performance, delivering consistent scores of 4, 4, 4 pushing themselves up the rankings and firmly into contention. Meanwhile, the competition remained tight, with The Hunter School of the Performing Arts once again impressing judges with another top score.

Round 3, the Open Scene, saw teams tested with challenging prompts, and high scores remained elusive. But Oakhill lit up the stage with a performance that had the audience roaring with laughter earning a well deserved 4 for entertainment and proving their ability to connect with the crowd when it mattered most.

Heading into the final round, the tension was palpable. Four schools Oakhill College, Shore, Newington College, and The Hunter School of the Performing Arts were locked in a tight battle, with The Hunter School maintaining a narrow lead.

In a spectacular finish, The Hunter School of the Performing Arts delivered a stunning performance of the game “Ballet,” expertly blending narrative storytelling with stylised movement and comedy. Their creativity and execution earned them top marks of 4, 5, 5 securing their place as the 2026 champions.

Final Results:

3rd Place: Oakhill College
2nd Place (tie): Shore and Newington College
1st Place: The Hunter School of the Performing Arts

A huge congratulations to Oakhill College’s Intermediate team for their incredible achievement in reaching the Grand Final a milestone last reached in 2024, when Oakhill claimed victory in the Junior division. This year’s result is a testament to the team’s dedication, creativity, and performance excellence.

Team Members include: Zac Sommerton, Angelo Chichizola, Aiden Rimes, Martin Vorster, Harrison Tanner, and Angus Wood.

Special thanks go to coach Ms Tara Bishop (Class of 2025) for her outstanding mentorship, and to the Drama Faculty for their unwavering support in fostering opportunities for students to thrive in Theatresports.

What’s Next?

While the Intermediate and Senior competitions have wrapped up for the year, the excitement is far from over. The Junior Competition kicks off in Term 3. The Drama Faculty will soon host the annual Oakhill College Theatresports Competition, where the next generation of performers will be scouted to represent Oakhill in the Junior Schools Challenge.

The stage is set, who will be next to carry the Oakhill legacy forward?

Mr Warren Flanagan
Academic Head of Drama

Things are heating up in room IH302 every Friday lunchtime! This term, the Oakhill Robotics Club has taken on a true engineering challenge: building an autonomous Sumobot completely from scratch.

Forget pre-assembled kits. Our enthusiastic group of Year 9 students is diving headfirst into the world of genuine computer science and mechatronics, taking raw materials and transforming them into smart, ring-ready competitors.

The build process requires laser-cutting the clear Perspex bases to form the chassis, carefully heating and bending the acrylic to mold custom, durable outer shells capable of handling high-impact collisions.

Each Sumobot packs serious hardware that all needs to talk to the central processor seamlessly:

• 2 microcontrollers and driver boards (including the central Arduino UNO)
• 2 high-torque motors for aggressive pushing power
• 8 independent sensors (including ultrasonic and infrared sensors) to detect the ring's boundary and track down opponents

This project isn't just about putting pieces together; it’s a masterclass in applied STEM. Our Year 9 innovators are learning to navigate real-world engineering constraints, such as balancing electrical load, calculating the effective range of sensors and hands-on with soldering irons, crafting custom wiring harnesses from scratch.

Once the robots are assembled, the students are writing raw syntax in Arduino (C/C++) to program complex autonomous behaviours.

• search for the enemy,
• attack when a target is acquired
• retreat if they get too close to the white boundary line.

These custom creations will face off inside the circular Sumo ring, where only the best-engineered hardware and the smartest code will survive.

If you want to see cutting-edge student engineering in action, drop by IH302 on Friday lunchtimes and catch the future of Oakhill tech being built from the ground up!

Mr James King
Teacher

Thursday 18th June marked a spectacular opening night for Jersey Boys: The Musical, launching with energy, style, and a crowd-pleasing performance that had audiences on their feet. From the very first note, the cast delivered a powerful tribute to the timeless music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable production.

The opening performance showcased a stellar cast, led by Vansh Chopra in his musical debut as Frankie Valli. Vansh captivated the audience with a confident and emotive portrayal, bringing both vocal brilliance and stage presence to the iconic role. His performance was a true highlight of the evening, earning enthusiastic applause and praise from all in attendance.

Adding to the excitement, the production introduced a cast change on Saturday night, with Angelo Chichizola stepping into the role of Frankie Valli. Angelo delivered an equally outstanding performance, demonstrating incredible vocal skill and charisma. The seamless transition between lead performers is a testament to the depth of talent within the cast, ensuring every performance maintains its high standard.

Both interpretations of Frankie Valli have left audiences with a lasting impression, contributing to what can only be described as a theatrical spectacle. The production as a whole shines with polished choreography, dynamic storytelling, and a vibrant ensemble that brings the world of Jersey Boys to life.

Looking ahead, there is even more to celebrate this week. Audiences will have the opportunity to see Year 8 student Piero Colossimo take on the role of Frankie Valli, an exciting moment that highlights the remarkable talent emerging within the younger members of the cast. Piero’s performances are highly anticipated and promise to add a fresh perspective to the role.

With several shows still remaining this week, there is no better time to experience the magic of Jersey Boys. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this sensational production, book your tickets now via TryBooking: https://www.trybooking.com/eve...

Secure your seats today and be part of the excitement!

Mr Warren Flanagan
Academic Head of Drama

ISA Sport concluded last weekend for Term 2 with another exciting round of fixtures. Our Tennis teams faced off against St Patrick’s College for the second time this season. Having already achieved success, it was a good measure for both programs to see the improvement made since their last outing. As expected, it was a dominant display by the 1st V Boys, winning 7-nil. They were well supported by the 2nd, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th teams, who also won their matches.

Our girls had their own challenges to overcome, as a return fixture saw them head to Barker for the majority of girls Football and Netball matches. Following an exciting match-up on Gala Day, our girls were well prepared after a strong week of training. The 1st VII Netball kept their undefeated streak alive, defeating Barker in an unusually low scoring fixture. With defence dominating, our girls prevailed 39-31. Oakhill College eventually won 6 out of 7 Netball fixtures on the day. The shock result came in the First XI Girls Football, with Oakhill College capturing a 3-1 victory. Playing with poise and possession, the Oakhill College girls established a strong attack early and methodically broke down their opponents with a 3-1 victory to close the gap at the top of the competition.

The Boys Football program were dispersed around Sydney, with the First XI boys team flying the Oakhill College banner at home against Central Coast Grammar School. Wary of what their opponents offered, the boys captured a strong 9-0 victory in cold conditions. Other highlights throughout the day were the 14B’s winning 3-1 against Blue Mountain Grammar School A’s, the 14E’s defeating Sydney Boys High School 4-0, and the 16A’s winning 6-1 against Central Coast Grammar School. A special mention must go to the 15A’s and B’s who, along with the 14E’s, were the last fixture played at Oakhill College before the break. With a 1-0 victory to the A’s, all teams reminded our community of the great spirit in which they play the game.

Our Rugby teams were also spread across numerous venues. Unfortunately, the 3rd XV fixture failed to go ahead. This gave the opportunity for great support for the 4th, 5th, and 6th Rugby teams who all recorded strong victories. The 14D’s were also terrific in a confidence-building 45-5 win over Redlands A’s. The 14A’s continued their dominance, winning 33-24 over Waverley A’s in an unmatched fixture.

Oakhill Athletics Carnival

An important part of the Oakhill calendar, the College’s Athletics Carnival was held onsite on Tuesday 23rd June. With an early start in cold conditions for some precarnival events, the ‘buzz’ of excitement was felt from the initial warm-up. When the carnival began later on, the students delivered a high volume of energy via their house war cries, with this intensity and passion maintained throughout the day. As each age group made their way around to their events, a fresh set of challenges were presented. With several records broken and new ones established, the day was an overwhelming success. Thank you to the students for their positive participation throughout the day. Of course, the carnival wouldn’t have been possible without the tremendous work of the Oakhill College teaching staff to facilitate such a large day, or the Maintenance team which assisted with the set-up and pack-up of each event. As we have often spoken about in this area, there is something special about Oakhill College and it was well displayed throughout the day.

Pre-Carnival Events

Oakhill hosted the pre-carnival athletics events in the lead up to the 2026 Carnival during lunchtime. Events also contributed to the overall Age Champion. Above are some great photos taken of students who achieved success in the Javelin events. Well done to all students who participated. 

Oakhill Girls Dominate at Representative Levels

The past few weeks have seen more high-level achievements from Oakhill College girls in Sport. Yet again, our girls demonstrated tenacity, resilience, hard work, and dedication to reach their peak. They have not only been rewarded for this, but have also excelled at the next level. Congratulations to the following students:

U18 Girls CIS Rugby League
Tara Khouri

U18 CIS Girls Rugby Union
Gwyneth Vernon

NSW All Schools Girls Basketball
Francesca Cusack

Coaches Corner

'Find a good Mentor. It’s hard to improve when you have no one but yourself to follow’.

The upcoming holidays is a great opportunity for our students to reflect on the people in life that they look up to. Not just for their success but their habits, their temperament, their ability to inspire, how they treat others; have them reflect on this in their thought process. Chances are, they probably already have one (or multiple). Challenge them further: what can you take away from this person on a daily basis? Hopefully, the reflection will provide them with the necessary motivation to succeed, in their own way, at the beginning of Term 3.

Team of the Week - 7th Netball

Oakhill College students are famous for displaying resilience and continuing to persevere in the face of challenging circumstances. The Oakhill College 7ths Netball have displayed such qualities (and more) this season. Following some strong performances to start the season, they were regraded, moving up two divisions! Rather than complain about hardship or challenge the decision, the girls took a fantastic attitude and positive demeanour into their two most recent matches. They’ve relished the challenge and will continue to face the opportunity with unity, displaying spirit in all that they do. Well done, girls. Keep up the good work!

CIS Information

Families are reminded that if their child is an elite athlete in a particular sport and wishes to trial for a CIS team, they must reach out to the sports department to notify them of their interest. It is the responsibility of families to check the CIS website for information on the dates of trials and competition, ensuring their availability for all events.

Mr Murray Fisher
Head of Sport

Reminder - Oakhill families receive a discount

Please see the flyer below. This is open to all Oakhill families and will leave many benefitting as expensive medical scans are covered.

A huge congratulations to Kiaan (Year 9) on an incredible sporting achievement. He recently competed at the World Taekwondo Oceania and Australian Open held on the Gold Coast, bringing home two bronze medals.

Well done on your hard work, dedication, and fantastic results on the international stage.

We wish Isaac Gunasekera (Year 11) and Flynn Wilson (Year 9) who have been selected for the NSW State Team for Men's Artistic Gymnastics in the Level 9 Under category. Highlighting the calibre of this achievement, only six athletes across NSW were chosen for this squad, and two are from Oakhill College.

Good luck to the team from Castle Hill Gymnastics who compete at Olympic Park on Wednesday 1st, Friday 3rd and Sunday 5th July.

Congratulations to Samuel Leon-Fore (Year 10) who has made the Greater Western Sydney Giants U16 Nationals. Well done!

The Uniform Shop will not be open during the school holiday period. It will re-open on Monday 20th July at 8.00am. Any Flexischool orders placed during this time will be available for collection in Week 1 of Term 3.

Mrs Suzanne Haskins
Uniform Shop Manager

At Hills Shire Hire, we provide a curated, one-stop styling experience where students can browse and try on a wide range of formal gowns from popular designer-inspired styles all in one private appointment. Our goal is to make the process enjoyable, stress-free, and memorable in the lead-up to their big event.

Over the past few years, we’ve had the pleasure of styling many Oakhill students for their school formals through Hills Shire Hire, and it’s been really special to see so many familiar faces from the College choose to hire with us for such an important milestone.