Welcome to 2026

I believe the true test of a successful education is the subsequent life of a student - the kind of person they become; the extent to which they are fulfilling their potential, using their gifts and talents to the best of their ability, for the betterment of others.

Our theme for 2026 is ‘90 Years Lasallian’ which provides an opportunity to reflect and celebrate what it means to be Lasallian, a tradition that began in Rheims, France, 346 years ago, and founded on the principles of viewing life through the eyes of faith; being respectful and inclusive in all we think, do and say; pursue excellence; and advocate for justice. These five principles form the charism and ethos that is Oakhill College.

This year our schoolwide focus for improvement in teaching and learning will again be reading, writing and critical thinking. In 2025 our NAPLAN and Allwell results were the best on record, with NAPLAN scores above or significantly above ‘similar schools’ and ‘all schools’. Oakhill College Years 7-10 are better year on year and counter the national narrative for boys.

We look forward to the 2026 Year 7 cohort of 350 students who come from over 88 primary schools with different teaching and learning styles and expectations and likewise the 136 girls who come from over 30 different high schools. The Transition Program for Year 7 and the Pastoral Program for Years 7-12, helps form students with the attributes and moral campus we believe essential for good civics and citizenship, and good wholesome beings known as the Oakhill Graduate.

John F Kennedy (1917-1963), President of the USA, said “every accomplishment starts with the decision to try”. He went on to say, it will not be easy, it will be hard. Confucius (551-479BC) said “it does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop”. Having perseverance and GRIT, that is having the courage, resolve and strength of character to keep on doing the hard work after you are tired of doing the hard work you have already done, defines the Oakhill spirit. This is what Theodore Roosevelt spoke about in his famous speech about the man in the arena of life, face marred by dust and sweat; who strives valiantly; errs; who comes up short; but who does actually strive to do the deeds. It will not be easy, it will be hard, says JFK (John F Kennedy) but we will do it because we must, because we can, and we have the measure. Words shared earlier by Marcus Aurelias and before him Alexander the Great.

In 2025 I continued to read about stoicism, which in many ways is another word for GRIT. In their writings the stoics, Marcus Aurelius (Epictetus and Seneca) wrote about and meditated on the ‘art of living’, dealing with questions such as “What is the best way to live?”, “What are my obligations to my fellow human beings?”, “How can I overcome my weaknesses and faults?”, “How can I deal with stress, anxiety and the difficult things I face?”. All very important and pertinent questions for ourselves today.

It was their belief that by strengthening themselves and fellow citizens, they could cultivate resilience, purpose and joy. I think much of what St Paul wrote in his letters may be influenced by stoic philosophy. The three stoic disciplines of Perception - how we see and perceive the world around us; Action - the decisions and actions we take in response to our perceptions; and the Discipline of Will - how we deal with the things we cannot change, attain clear and convincing judgement, and come to a new understanding of our place in the world, is certainly about GRIT and there are certainly these stoic elements in the becoming of an Oakhill Graduate. (ref: Holiday R. Hanselman S. (2016). The Daily Stoic. London: Profile Books Ltd)

Oakhill College Graduates with feet firmly grounded, aim for the stars, know that life’s journey will not always be clearly defined, straight or predictable. Oakhill College graduates know that they have a strength of spirit that enables them to rise above the fleeting things to engage life consciously – they never give in. An Oakhill College Graduate always strives for what matters, looks out for the other, knowing and experiencing true mateship; is always up for the challenge, keeps the faith, is good and kind, and just, in all they think, do and say, and know that they contribute to God’s Kingdom.

Finally, I would like to congratulate the Class of 2025 and in particular Johnathan Soares Caplice, our College Dux for 2025, with an ATAR of 99.9. The Oakhill College Class of 2025 has been one of our most successful to date with 79 ATARS above 90; 8 All Rounders i.e. all courses with a Band 6; 3 students in the Top-in-State (5th Maths Standard 1, 5th Science Extension, 9th English Standard 2); and 56 students nominated for the HSC Showcase of Major Works in Performing and Visual Arts and TAS. The College also had many sports and cultural successes including State, National and International titles. Of note also were a number of Science and Olympiad Championships; Champions in the Independent Sports Association Swimming, Athletics, Cross Country, Tennis, and Netball competitions; and the College’s most successful and highly acclaimed musical, Jesus Christ Super Star. Year 12, 2025 were a most happy, hard-working, friendly group of students, service-oriented aiming to be good citizens, attaining the true test of a successful education. The kind of person they became; the extent to which they fulfilled their potential, using their gifts and talents to the best of their ability, for the betterment of others, earned them admirably the title of Oakhill Graduate.

Br Steve Hogan fsc
Principal

Board Chair / Finance Committee
Mr Michael O’Brien
Mr O’Brien an Alumnus of Oakhill College (1972) was appointed as a Director in 2013. In 2014 Mr O’Brien was appointed as a Magistrate of the NSW Local Court. He is a retired member of the Royal Australian Air Force Specialist Reserves. Mr O'Brien was elected Board Chair in November 2025, having served as Deputy Chair for several years.

Director
Sir Br Patrick Lynch
KNZM, QSO
Sir Br Pat Lynch was appointed as a Director in 2015, is a leading New Zealand educationalist and was Chief Executive of the New Zealand Catholic Education Office (NZCEO) for 21 years from 1994 until his retirement in 2015. He also served as President of the Secondary Principles Association of New Zealand (SPANZ) from 1992 until 1994 and Principal of De La Salle College, Mangere, Auckland.

Director
Mr Andrew Madden
Mr Madden brings a wealth of experience to Oakhill with some of his past appointments: Director - Fusion Commercial Consulting; Senior Vice President - Macquarie Bank; SIMPLA - Investor & Advisory Board Member; Senior Client Executive & Complex Deal Lead Telstra Corporation; Business Development Manager, KAZ Technology Services. He has also been a committed member of the Oakhill College Rugby Club for nine years including being Vice President from 2012 - 2014, and President 2015 - 2019. Mr Madden is also a Member of the Finance Committee.

Director
Mrs Donna-Maree Vinci
Mrs Vinci is an Alumni of Oakhill College (1979). Since graduating from Oakhill College Mrs Vinci has achieved extensive experience globally in digital, technology, and operations and risk management. Her record of accomplishment of delivering strategies across people, culture, processes, and systems globally, provides a great foundation to play a key role in Oakhill’s strategic future. Mrs Vinci is currently a Group Executive and CO at the Bank of Queensland (BOQ) leading the digitisation of the business and customer experience.

Director
Mr Daniel O’Brien
Mr O’Brien, an Alumnus of Oakhill College (1996) was appointed as a Director in 2014. Mr O’Brien was admitted to the legal profession in 2008 and is a NSW Law Society Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation. Mr O’Brien is a partner of Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers.

Director
Mr Paul Forrester
Mr Forrester is currently the Principal of La Salle Catholic College, Bankstown and formerly of De La Salle College Ashfield, and brings a wealth of experience from his 29 year career in education. Mr Forrester's connection to the Lasallian schools mission is both professional and personal; with 13 years in Lasallian schools and three sons who are alumni, he remains steadfastly committed to our core values. He also holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Employment Relations), Graduate Diploma in Education, Masters of Educational Leadership.

Director
Mrs Danielle Odd
Mrs Odd is the Director of Wellbeing, Health, and Safety at PwC Australia. She leads major initiatives in psychosocial risk management, mental health peer support, and organisation‑wide safety culture uplift, including the firmwide WHS strategy. Danielle contributes to local and global professional services working groups, bringing deep expertise in evidence‑based, risk‑led wellbeing and safety approaches. She is known for her ability to drive meaningful culture change and deliver measurable improvements in health and safety outcomes. 

She also brings a strong personal connection, being married to a family with a long, multi‑generational history at the College, and her two children having attended Oakhill.

Director
Mr Matthew Puleo
Mr Puleo is an Oakhill Alumnus (1997) and father of two current students. A Legal Practitioner since 2004, he has spent 22 years in private practice in Castle Hill and serves as an active member of the Legal Aid Criminal Backup Duty Panels for the Children’s and Local Court.

Oakhill College is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where all members of our community can thrive. As part of this commitment, the College has introduced a Community Charter which outlines the expectations, responsibilities, and standards of behaviour that apply to all.

This Community Charter serves as a framework to ensure that every individual upholds the values of respect, integrity, and responsibility expected at Oakhill College. It reinforces our collective duty to maintain a positive and supportive learning environment, where all students can achieve their full potential and where staff feel safe.

We ask that all parents, carers, and students take the time to carefully read and familiarise themselves with this Community Charter. Adherence to these guidelines is essential in continuing to work in partnership and continue promoting a culture of excellence, respect, and personal accountability at Oakhill College.

Thank you for your ongoing support in upholding the values and expectations that define the Oakhill College community. 

Oakhill College is a large school, and sometimes parents/guardians are unsure where to direct an academic or pastoral query or concern. The flowchart below easily outlines the pathway if a need arises to contact a staff member at the College.

Transport for NSW has communicated to the College that buses will run from Tuesday 27th January. Therefore, on Friday 30th January and Monday 2nd February, buses will run as per the current timetables.

Timetables can be found here: https://transportnsw.info/rout...

Please ensure your child taps on and taps off every trip as this is how the NSW Government makes decisions on bus routes, times, capacity etc.

For more information:

Back to School 2026 CDC NSW 002

The College is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the Class of 2025 and the accelerated Year 11 students in the 2025 HSC results.

Congratulations to Jonathan Soares Caplice, College Dux, with an ATAR of 99.9, and Kristijan Magdic and Lucas Karam, Proxime Accessit, with ATARs of 99.45 and 99.4.

Special recognition to the 8 All-Rounders, achieving Band 6 in all their courses: Zander Cheng, Leyla Dolatshahi, Lucas Karam, Bryan Kim, Marko Slankamenac, Jonathan Soares Caplice, Ronan Thompson and Harrison Valenzisi.

Also, to the three students who achieved a Top Placement in the State: Lily Evett: 5th Mathematics Standard 1; Ronan Thompson 5th in Science Extension; and Flynn Farrell 9th in English Standard.

The College had 29 (7.1%) of students achieve an ATAR above 95; and 79 (19.3%) students achieved an ATAR above 90. 173 students were listed on the Distinguished Achievers list for attaining a Band 6 in at least one subject, with a total of 326 distinguished results. Of the 173 students, 150 were Year 12 students, or 37% of Year 12 candidates. In addition, 23 were Year 11 students who had accelerated in one or more HSC courses.

In the 2025 HSC results, 88.4% of all HSC results were Band 4 - 6; while 54.3% of all HSC results were Band 5 - 6 (the top two Bands), compared with the State rate of 41.8%. The percentage of students achieving Band 1 or 2 was only 1.8% compared to the State rate of 8%.

We also acknowledge and congratulate the parents and families who have supported and guided the Year 12 Class of 2025 over the past 17 or 18 years. Your pride is well-deserved. Finally, the College extends its gratitude to our dedicated staff for their encouragement, guidance, and mentorship throughout this journey.

Class of 2025 HSC Results

Oakhill is a very busy school. To keep up to date, we have many methods of communication including but not limited to:

• Oakhill College Newsletter which is emailed to all families and students fortnightly on a Friday (Week B).
• Oakhill College Website. Some of the items you will find include the parent and student portal, sports fixtures, online calendar, payments, Trybooking, Canteen and Uniform Shop information.
• Oakhill College Official Social Media Channels: 
  • Facebook: www.facebook.com/oakhillcollegeofficial
  • Instagram: #oakhillcollegeofficial 
  • LinkedIn: Oakhill College
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oakhillcollegetv5156
• Due to the often inaccurate information distributed through parent Facebook pages, the College asks parents not to start Oakhill College or Group pages, but for you to follow the official pages and/or communicate with Tutor Teacher, Deans etc.
• Tutor Group Teachers discuss and disseminate messages to students daily.
• Oakhill College Diary which all students receive on the first day of Term 1.
• Printed Oakhill College Calendar with all the planned activities for the year. All students will receive one week commencing Monday 2nd February.
• TASS Parent Portal where you can view your child's timetable, assessment schedule, view reports and fee balances etc.
• Interactive Whiteboards are all in classrooms with notices circulating outlining upcoming events, ie. winter sports registration dates, lunchtime rehearsals, coding or chess club times.
• 2025 Yearbook. All families will receive a copy in Years 8-12, 2026 (except girls starting in Year 11), week commencing Monday 2nd February.
• Parent Information Handbook available on the TASS Parent Portal. 
• The Oakhill Drive our bi-annual magazine full of alumni stories and achievements.

Please ensure your contact details are always up to date. Any updates can be made through the TASS Parent Portal.

Fee statements for 2026 were emailed to parents in January.

Please contact Mrs Lisa Camilleri on accounts.receivable@oakhill.nsw.edu.au if you have any questions relating to these.

I would like to remind parents who have not yet selected their direct debit instalment option to return the School Easy Pay Direct Debit form by Tuesday 27th January so that your payments can be scheduled in time for the first due date on 15th February 2026.

The form can be downloaded by logging onto your Parent Portal and clicking into School Links, Forms – Direct Debit Payment Form (School EasyPay).

Mrs Elke Forrest
Business Manager

Students are reminded that they should not be walking through car parking areas when moving around the College. This includes leaving at the end of the day. Please ensure that you are using the appropriate pathways.

Parents are reminded not to drive through the College grounds in the morning or afternoon from one roundabout to the other. 

Parents visiting the College are to use the parking spaces marked ‘Visitors’ closest to the College reception. All other numbered parking spaces are reserved. Parents are asked not to park in the designated ‘Kiss and Drop’ zones. These exist to support the flow of traffic and avoid traffic congestion. Parents picking up their children after school are encouraged to do so from 3:30 pm, when the majority of buses have now picked up the bulk of the students and there is less traffic congestion. Please give priority and use the kiss n drop entry and exits only on Old Northern Road and Foley Place.

We thank you for your assistance in these safety matters.

Attendance at school for all classes is critical but, at Oakhill we also believe that attendance at major College events is just as critical in building our school community. Attendance on the days listed below is compulsory and requires a medical certificate if a student is absent:

The Retreats and Reflection Day Programmes are compulsory for all students and come under the direction of the College Mission Team. The compulsory Reflection Days (Years 7–10 and Year 11 Retreat), together with an optional Year 12 Retreat provide students with the time to reflect on life and to interact with others in a Christian context. They also ensure a memorable experience in our College community where the individual is valued and where communal experiences of liturgy, celebration and reflection are highlighted. If for any reason your child does not attend Retreat or Reflection Days there will be no fee refund.

Construction on the Hospitality Suite and Kitchens, the next stage of our Master Plan, is progressing well and is on track for completion in the first half of this year. Significant milestones have been reached, including the installation of commercial exhaust hoods and the near completion of the flooring (95%). Currently, the ceilings are prepped for painting, and the stainless steel benches are being assembled on-site.

Since 2016, Oakhill College has been the recipient of donations from the Parents & Friends Association, Basketball Club, Rugby Club and State Community Grants. We would like to thank our partners for their support improving our College and its facilities. 

We also thank our students who have raised substantial funds from events like MAD Day, Battle of the Bands, Cupcake Friday's, Market Day, Pi Day and more, for charities such as the Breakfast Club, The Sanctuary, Lasallians Without Borders and Caritas.

The P&F is a vibrant group of volunteers who are here to provide support to parents, guardians, carers and friends of Oakhill College. We aim to promote and build a friendly and welcoming community seeking to involve all its members in building and growing community within the College whilst raising funds, making friends and memories along the way.

To strengthen the partnership between family, the College and the wider community we hold regular meetings, fundraising and social activities, provide consistent liaison and communication and help raise funds that provide resources and opportunities for enriching the learning environment of our children.

The P&F meetings are held at least once a term, commencing at 7:00pm and conclude before 9:00pm. Our first meeting is on Wednesday 11th February at 7.00pm. We invite and welcome all new and existing families to come and join us.

Be sure to click here to become a member to stay updated on all our meetings and events.

A reminder of the evenings will be in the College Newsletter and on the website during the year.

Our first event for 2026 is our Annual Welcome Night for new and current families to Oakhill. This event sells out quickly and is a great opportunity to meet new parents or reconnect with old friends. More information to follow, but for now mark Saturday 21st March in your calendar for this awesome event.

Entertainment Book

Another College fundraising activity of the P&Fs is the Entertainment Book. This book is packed full of offers, discounts and more. You can order the Entertainment Book here: https://subscribe.entertainment.com.au/fundraiser/21434p0

We hope your family will come along and enjoy these events with us! We welcome your involvement in all our community activities and look forward to working together.

As Assistant Principal Curriculum, I look forward to the year ahead and the possibilities it brings for every learner at Oakhill College. This new chapter invites our students to extend themselves, our teachers to continue shaping excellent learning, and our community to work together with purpose, encouragement and pride.

Celebrating 90 Years Lasallian – Living a Legacy of Faith, Service Community

As we mark Oakhill College’s 90th year as a Lasallian community, our theme invites us to reflect on a legacy shaped by faith, service, and an unwavering commitment to educating young people in the tradition of St John Baptist de La Salle. For nine decades, generations of staff and students have lived out the call before we commence each lesson as part of our prayer, “Let us remember that we are in the holy presence of God,” allowing this simple, profound reminder to guide their actions.

Being part of a 90‑year story challenges us to carry forward the spirit that has defined Lasallian education: hope grounded in purpose, faith expressed through deeds, and a community built on respect and compassion. As Pope Francis reminds us, “Faith is not a light which scatters all our darkness, but a lamp which guides our steps in the night.” This year, that light continues to guide Oakhill as we honour our past and shape the future.

I look forward to seeing our community embody this heritage through kindness, courage, and a deep sense of belonging, ensuring that our next 90 years remain as faith-filled and impactful as the first.

Celebrating Academic Excellence

The Class of 2025’s HSC results are a testament to their dedication, resilience, and pursuit of excellence. They were faith filled (2025 College theme) and their achievements were nothing short of extraordinary. This cohort began their journey in Year 7 when COVID-19 disrupted face to face learning and created significant challenges at the start of their high school experience.

In 2025, 470 students completed HSC courses, including 423 Year 12 students and 46 Year 11 students who accelerated in subjects such as Studies of Religion 2, Mathematics Advanced, and Mathematics Extension I. The College offered 59 examinable HSC courses. The results speak for themselves:

The HSC average exceeded the state average in 37 courses. The College celebrated 173 Distinguished Achievers, a remarkable effort from our cohort. Year 12 students earned an impressive 386 Band 6/E4 results.

These accomplishments reflect the dedication of our students, the commitment of our teachers, and the unwavering support of parents and guardians. As a community, we celebrated successes, learned from setbacks, and grew stronger together.

Welcoming New Students and Families

As we begin 2026, we look forward to completing the refurbishment of our new Food Technology and Hospitality Suite by the end of Term 1. This world class facility will serve Oakhill students for many years and reflects our ongoing commitment to providing outstanding learning environments.

We also warmly welcome the newest members of our community: all of our new students, including: our Year 7 cohort and our Year 11 girls, who joined us on Tuesday 27th January. The first day of a new chapter can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming, but each day brings greater connection, familiarity and confidence. Very soon, our new students and families will find that Oakhill is a place where they are known, supported and encouraged to thrive.

The Power of Reading and Reflection

Over the summer, I made a deliberate effort to read for pleasure more, a habit I intend to carry into the year ahead. Whilst I do enjoy reading I have to be more deliberate in finding the time to prioritise reading. Beginning a new year gives our students a similar opportunity to reset their habits in study, organisation and wellbeing.

Recent Australian research continues to emphasise the strong benefits of reading for pleasure. National studies show that reading supports wellbeing, focus and learning, yet many Australians report reading less than they intend due to time pressures and distractions. Establishing regular reading routines has been shown to be one of the strongest predictors of sustained reading engagement. At Oakhill, we remain committed to nurturing these habits. Each Wednesday during Tutor Time, students read purely for enjoyment a practice supported by current behavioural insights into Australian reading patterns, which highlight the need to create consistent, positive reading experiences. Our library continues to offer extended access, providing students with a welcoming and well‑resourced space to explore books that interest them.

The Role of Parents and Guardians

Parental involvement remains a vital part of every student’s success. At Oakhill, we view our partnership with parents and guardians as a shared responsibility, strengthened through open communication, mutual respect and consistent expectations.

Our Oakhill Community Charter, located on the College website and in the parent portal https://tass.oakhill.nsw.edu.a..., outlines the standards we uphold as a school and the behaviours we expect from our wider community. It sets a clear foundation for how we work together to support student learning, wellbeing and personal growth.

Whether through email communication, parent teacher interviews or College events, these channels help us stay connected and aligned. When families and the College operate with a shared understanding of expectations, our young people benefit from a consistent, supportive environment that enables them to thrive.

Setting High Standards for 2026

As we begin the year, it is important that students anchor their daily habits in the Oakhill Student Expectations outlined in the College Diary. These expectations form the framework for how every student approaches their learning, conduct and wellbeing.

To support strong routines and personal responsibility, I encourage students and families to reflect on the following questions:

• How will I follow the daily expectations in my diary and build routines that support effective time management?
• How will I ensure social media and gaming do not interfere with learning, sleep or wellbeing?
• How will I aim for my personal best in each subject and meet the academic standards expected of all Oakhill students?
• How will I approach subjects I find challenging with perseverance, rather than avoidance?
• How will I contribute positively in class by staying focused, prepared and engaged?
• Will I seek help early from my teachers, tutor or Academic Head when I need support?
• How will I plan ahead for assessments, co‑curricular commitments and family responsibilities?
• Will I ensure my technology is kept out of my bedroom at night to support healthy sleep and learning readiness?

By using the Oakhill Student Expectations as a daily reference point, students can build consistency, accountability and habits that lead to genuine growth throughout 2026.

Our Strategic Focus for Student Success

Oakhill College continues to work towards three key strategic goals to help students reach their personal and collective best:

Striving for academic excellence through retrieval routines, writing frameworks, vocabulary development, feedback, academic rigour and responsive active teaching.

Sustaining personal growth through consistency in behaviour expectations, appearance and presentation, language and service.

Succeeding through persistence, patience and partnership.

At Oakhill in Stage 6 many subjects have access to Atomi which is a video first online learning platform providing curriculum aligned lessons, quizzes and analytics to support students and parents. It simplifies learning through short, clear instructional videos, adaptive assessment tools and personalised feedback designed to boost understanding and academic performance. We also have Enhanced Learning which offers many supporting resources for both students and parents. You can learn more at www.studyskillshandbook.com.au by logging in with the details below and working through some of the units.

Username - foroakhillonly
Password - 41results (the 1 is a number)

Mr Gavin Russell
Assistant Principal Curriculum

To enable students to be organised for the commencement of the 2026 academic year, student timetables will be printed and distributed as follows:

• Year 7 and 11 students will receive their timetable on Friday 30th January from their Tutor Teacher.
• Year 8, 9, 10 and 11 students NEW to the College received their timetable on Tuesday 28th January during their Orientation Day.
• Year 8, 9, 10 and 12 students will receive their timetable on Monday 2nd February.

Parents and guardians are reminded that Parent Teacher Evenings and Parent/Tutor Day are compulsory components of our partnership in supporting student learning. Each year group has only one formal Parent Teacher Evening and one Parent/Tutor Day in the College calendar, so attendance is expected.

If a parent is unable to attend on the scheduled date, they should contact the Academic Head (for Parent Teacher Evenings) or the Tutor Teacher (for Parent/Tutor Day) to arrange an alternative meeting time on a subsequent day. This ensures continuity of communication and consistent support for each student’s academic care.

Friday 20th March is the Parent/Tutor Day. There are no classes for students this day. However students are expected to attend the Parent/Tutor meeting with their parent/guardian for their interview. Information will be sent out closer to the date and interview time bookings will open late February.

Academic progress and a settled learning environment is more possible when priority is given to maintaining excellent attendance at school. We seek parent support in minimising absence from school, as the College expects all students to be present unless they are too sick to attend. It is a legal requirement for students to participate in full-time education and your support and cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Parents are reminded that there is an expectation that students attend Oakhill College for the entire term as gazetted in the College Diary and Calendar. Please remember that:

• Term dates are published well in advance so that correct holiday bookings can be planned outside of school time.
• The College program determines that the students work right up to the end of the term.

Please note that student’s involvement in all College activities is part of the agreement made by parents and students at the time of enrolment.

Apart from unanticipated sickness, all requests for leave are to be made in advance, preferably with two weeks’ notice. Requests are to be submitted via the appropriate form: a copy of this form can be obtained from the Parent Portal. Forms are to be completed and can be sent via email to: jbarbagallo@oakhill.nsw.edu.au.

Parents will be notified of the outcome of the request via email. Permission for Leave should not be presumed. This process has been developed in response to amendments to the Education Act. Students absent from the College without prior permission or with Unapproved Leave will be given zero for any assessment tasks and/or examinations missed.

No student is permitted to be in any shopping centre in Oakhill College uniform, unless in the company of a parent. While Castle Towers is closest to the College, the same rule applies to other shopping centres such as the Rouse Hill Town Centre, Macquarie Centre and Round Corner shops. Any student seen in a shopping centre in College uniform without an accompanying parent will receive an afternoon detention. There are no exceptions to this rule.

The College uniform must be worn properly at all times. For boys, in summer it includes an Oakhill crested shirt, trousers, black belt, navy socks, and polished black leather lace-up shoes with rubber soles. Girls are reminded that kilts must be worn below the knee (see below). If you are unsure, the details can be found in the College Diary. Parents are requested to only purchase uniforms from the College Uniform Shop to ensure correct style and colour. Please mark all clothing clearly on labels so if lost they can easily be returned to the owner.

The only wet weather clothing allowed at the College is the Oakhill College raincoat. No hoodies or jumpers, other than the College jumper, are to be worn. Thermal or long sleeve undershirts are not to be seen at any time. A plain white short sleeve shirt ONLY can be worn under the College summer shirt.

Oakhill College clearly sets out the regulations regarding hairstyles in the College Diary. While mullets, skin fades, bob or mop styles and coloured hair are clearly known NOT to be permitted at Oakhill, it is at the College discretion of what hairstyle falls outside of the College policy. The Deans, Director of Student Management and Wellbeing and the Assistant Principal of Pastoral Care make these determinations and communicate expectations regularly to ensure fairness and clarity for the students. Serious breaches will result in an afternoon detention allocated and students may be required to have their hairstyle changed immediately to meet expected standards. Alternative hairstyles or colouring undertaken during holiday periods must be corrected prior to returning to school.

It is at the discretion of the College as to acceptable uniform and grooming and upon enrolment, students and parents agreed to support the College policies and procedures. We ask for continued support on the following:

• Hair should be neatly cut and maintained at all times – clean, brushed and combed.
• Boy’s hair must be above their shirt collar and must not hang over the eyes and face.
• Bob cuts are unacceptable.
• Skin fade, ‘mullet’ and 'mushroom' cuts are unacceptable.
• Undercut styles are not acceptable, nor are tracks or lines.
• Dramatic layered effects or levels are not permitted; hair clipped on the sides and back must blend in with hair on the top, so that there is not an overhang of hair over the sides and back.
• Hair should not be overly styled by the use of hair products.
• Hair is not to be tinted or coloured (this also applies to girls).
• Boys are not permitted to wear their hair in a ponytail at any time.
• Rats-tails, dreadlocks or other braidings are not permitted.
• Girls with long hair must tie it back with maroon or navy ribbon ONLY.
• Boys are to be clean-shaven at all times.
• Girls are not to wear eye makeup, lash extensions, lipstick, nail polish or fake tan. Light foundation is permitted.
• Artificial nails, Shellac nails and French manicures are also not permitted. Students will be asked to have the polish /artificial nails removed immediately if worn to school.
• Jewellery is not to be worn, with the following exception: lightweight silver/gold chain with crucifix or small religious medallion long enough not to be visible.
• Any student with a tattoo must have it covered at all times, whether at school or at sport and / or when representing the College.

ID photos will take place on Friday 30th January for Years 7 and 11, and Years 8, 9, 10 and 12 on Monday 2nd February. Individual College photos will take place on Monday 18th May and then Special Interest Photos will take place on Thursday 23rd July. Students must meet all grooming and hair expectations to have their photo taken on these days. Any student not meeting grooming and hair expectations may be denied having a photo taken. All grooming is at the College discretion and parents and students at the time of enrolment agreed to these expectations.

Students must only be absent when they are genuinely sick. All absences from the College, except for prior approved Leave, are to be communicated to the College via the Parent Portal (TASS) by 8.30am on each day of absence.

Tutor Group time occurs at the commencement of the school day. This means that the official College roll will be taken at 8.35am on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Tuesday is our longer Tutor Group time and will remain at 10.15am.

Students who arrive after Tutor Time (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday or after 9.25am on Tuesday), or later than this, must present themselves to Student Services. An SMS text message will be sent to parents’ mobile phones each day after Tutor Group time if their child is absent. Parents are requested to respond to the text via the Parent Portal. There are consequences for students who have a pattern of lateness, so we ask for your co-operation in making plans that allow for each student to arrive to school well ahead of the 8:35am start. After three ‘unauthorised lates’, students will automatically incur an afternoon detention for each day of lateness for the remainder of that term.

Where illness affects examinations, sporting matches/activities or school determined obligatory commitments, a medical certificate must be presented.

Missing lessons can affect a student’s performance and routine. For this reason, parents are requested not to make dental, medical or driving test appointments during school time.

Mobile phones, smart device communication tools and ear pods must be switched off and out of sight on campus, including recess and lunchtime. Mobile phones, smart devices and ear pods must be out of sight during all lessons, recess, lunch, assemblies, in the library or whilst on an excursion unless a teacher has given permission for a learning activity or emergency. Mobile phones are not permitted to be used for payment at the canteen, however a smartwatch may be used for purchases at the canteen.

Mobile phones and ear pods will be confiscated if used between 8.00am and 3.15pm without the permission of a staff member. If a mobile phone is confiscated on three occasions or more within a term, an afternoon detention will be allocated to the student. Parents are encouraged to use the normal channel of communicating with their son/daughter by phoning the College on 9899 2288 if they wish to contact their child during school hours.

When travelling to and from school on public transport, students’ behaviour, appearance, language and wearing of the College uniform appropriately is expected to be of the highest standard at all times, as each individual is representing the entire College in the public eye. If travelling on a public bus or the metro, students are required at all times to wait for public patrons to exit the bus or metro before boarding and they are to give up their seat for public paying passengers when appropriate. All students are expected to have an Opal Card and to tap on and off the bus or train each day, as this impacts the scheduling of transport services via Transport NSW.

Those student drivers that travel by vehicle also represent the College in the public eye and are encouraged to always obey the rules of the road. Speeding, hooning and other irresponsible behaviour while driving can be dangerous to the student and others in the community. Such behaviour is unacceptable and with incidents communicated to parents and College consequences applied proportionally to the offence.

On Thursday 19th February from 6:00pm-7.30pm all Year 7 parents and guardians are invited and encouraged to meet the Pastoral Team. This is a semi-formal occasion where parents meet teachers primarily responsible for their son’s welfare. For Year 7 students this will be their son’s Tutor Teacher. Information about coming events and activities at the College will be provided on this evening and parents and guardians will have the opportunity to ask questions or have any matters clarified.

These meetings will be followed by light refreshments. Students are not required or expected to attend. 

An important part of keeping all our students safe is ensuring all medical conditions and medications are up to date with the College. We ask all parents to check their child/s profile on the Parent Portal at the start of term and ensure permission to administer medications and any required information is on the system and is up to date. 

Please also ensure that any medication your child requires is delivered to sickbay prior to the commencement of school in a clear ziploc bag with your child’s name and cohort on it and any necessary action plans. Mrs Chapman is best contacted via email at firstaid@oakhill.nsw.edu.au for any questions. Students are not to keep any prescribed medication in their school bag. All prescription medication is to be stored with the First Aid Officer.

If a student has a medical appointment, they must have a note in their College Diary from a parent/carer stating the reason, appointment and time. The student must then ensure they have their Dean's signature before they exit the campus via Student Services, so they are signed out.

Managing Anaphylaxis at Oakhill College

Oakhill is always looking to partner with and support students who have life threatening conditions on campus such as Anaphylaxis. Please ensure that your child’s medical condition is known to sickbay via the Parent Portal. One of the ways we partner with students and families is to allow an Epipen and other outlined medications in the Action Plan to be carried by the student in person. However, sickbay should also be provided by the family with a spare Epipen, Action Plan and any medication to support this condition. 

It is very important that should your child identify that they do not have their Epipen or medication in their bag on any school day, they must report immediately to sickbay for Mrs Chapman to assist with supplying their spare Epipen, to ensure they are safe on campus and when attending off campus events, such as excursions. If your child is needing assistance due to a Medical Emergency, they must notify their classroom teacher or teacher on yard duty who will assist in caring for them.

We understand that medical conditions can change and if you have any questions or updates, please email Mrs Chapman at firstaid@oakhill.nsw.edu.au for any questions. 

A friendly reminder, parents are asked not to drop items such as sports gear, books, laptops etc. to the College so it can be delivered to students during the day. Allowing students to manage without items builds resilience and often helps students to remember and be more responsible for themselves. Thank you for your assistance.

After school detentions run from 3:20pm to 4:30pm, with Pastoral detentions running on Wednesday’s. Any student who fails to attend an afternoon detention without having a satisfactory reason communicated and accepted by their Dean will be issued a Saturday detention. Saturday detentions run from 8.00am to 9:30am. Sporting commitments and work are not acceptable reasons for not attending a Saturday detention as they diminish the learning that can come from being held accountable for one’s actions. Requests to change the detention for work or sport will not be considered. Failure to attend a Saturday detention could result in Suspension. Upon enrolment with the College, students and parents agreed to support the College policies and procedures.

This is a privilege for senior students who hold a current NSW driver’s licence. Those that drive to school must comply with the College Student Driving Policy. The College reserves the right to enforce this policy and to withdraw driving privileges from any student who fails to meet the requirements. The following rules apply:

• Students are not permitted to drive to excursions. Nor are students permitted to leave College grounds during the day.
• It is expected that students strictly obey the conditions of their licence (red P, green P, full licence).
• No student is to park on College property unless they have been issued a parking space through the ballot system.
• With the exception of siblings, no student is permitted to have unauthorised passengers in their car without a note in their diary from the passenger’s parents, which has been approved and signed off by the Director of Student Management and Wellbeing, before travel.
• Students must show respect to residents, especially in the manner in which they park and use the roads. If the school becomes aware that a student driver has parked illegally or broken rules of the road his/her parents and/or council rangers or police may be notified.
• All students who drive to Oakhill College must register their car’s registration number with the Director of Student Management and Wellbeing, whether they park on the property or not.

Welcome back to Oakhill for another year and welcome to new students and their families who are joining the College community. We hope that you have had a good break and that your son / daughter is looking forward to returning to school. Information regarding Sport at Oakhill will be sent to families in the coming weeks. 

The ISA Summer Sports Round resumes on Saturday 31st January, with Round 7 of the ISA competition. The Semi Finals and Finals will be played on 28th February and 1st March, respectively.

Important Upcoming Dates:

Saturday 31st January: ISA Round 7
Saturday 7th February: ISA Round 8 – Pink Stumps Day
Monday 9th February: Swimming Championship Carnival (7:30am College Pool).

Winter Sports Registration opens online via TASS: Rugby, Football, Girls Football, Netball and Tennis. Registration information for winter sport will be available via Newsletters and emails in Term One.

Wednesday 11th February: Barker Invitation Swimming Carnival

Tuesday 17th February: House Swimming Carnivals (students only) Year 9 - Periods 1 and 2 - Year 8 - Periods 3 and 4 - Year 7 - Periods 5 and 6

Saturday 21st February: ISA Round 10

Tuesday 25th February: House Swimming Carnivals (students only) Year 11 and 12 - Periods 1 and 2 (50 students per house) - Year 10 - Periods 3 and 4

Saturday 28th February: ISA Summer Sport Semi Finals

Saturday 1st March: ISA Summer Sport Finals

To find out more about Oakhill Sport or to check on fixtures, wet weather, locations and more, please follow the link: https://www.oakhill.nsw.edu.au... 
Note that sport fixtures will be uploaded weekly to the College website. This is a live document and should be checked regularly prior to the weekend.

Pink Stumps Day

Oakhill College will celebrate Pink Stumps Day on Saturday 7th February. The aim of Pink Stumps Day is to raise money to go towards the McGrath Foundation and fund a cancer nurse. It costs $380,000 to fund a nurse over a 3-year period. The role of a cancer nurse is to assist people going through treatment by providing care when needed and in the comfort of their home. They aim to improve the quality of care and provide important information, support and referral for a wide range of needs experienced during this time.

Our aim is to raise a minimum of $2,500 this year.

CLICK HERE to make a donation.

Oakhill College sport will be awash with Pink as Basketball and Touch fixtures start at 8.00am, while the First XI Cricket will start at 10.00am on Damien Oval. We hope to see you there.

Golf - Webex TPS Series

Students at Oakhill College have been invited by Castle Hill Country Club to attend the 2025 Webex TPS Series. The event will be held on Thursday 5th and Friday 6th February. Students can travel down and attend the event once school has finished. Tickets are complimentary.

Coaches Corner

This year, we are adding a new area to the Sport Newsletter in the ‘Coaches Corner’. The purpose of this is to educate, promote a positive mindset and provide an insight into what it takes to be a better person, which will ultimately positively impact on an individual's sporting endeavours.

‘We don’t rise to the moment, we repeat the same standard’.

Often in life, people match the moment with their application, behaviour or effort. This also has the side effect of creating excess pressure on the individual. As an athlete, knowing they are performing the same skill in a Grand Final or elimination match will increase performance anxiety. The best athletes perform well under pressure; underpinning any performance is a mindset and if the athlete is focussed on the execution of the skill, rather than the moment, they increase their chances of successfully completing the skill. If it is the same standard that the athlete is repeating, pressure will be reduced.

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.

Reminder - Oakhill families can 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.

Evette's Lunchbox is Oakhill's Canteen provider. Evette’s Lunchbox is a family operated business with over 20 years of experience in the food and catering industry, providing only the best foods to students and staff. The canteen menu incorporates a vast range of wholesome foods, using only the highest quality ingredients and trusted brand names, with many healthy options to help make good choices. Meals will be made daily on the premises, and are closely linked to the Healthy School Canteens Strategy. 

The Canteen's operating hours are 7.45am - 3.30pm.

Evette's Lunchbox will also accept cash and eftpos payments at the Canteen, however no phones are to be used only watches.

The Canteen menu is available here: Oakhill College Canteen Menu

Orders can be placed via Flexischools. For further information on Flexischools ordering, please click here: https://www.oakhill.nsw.edu.au...

The College Uniform Shop, located in the De La Salle Building will be open as per the hours below. You may also order any uniform requirements via Flexischools. Flexischools re-opened to receive orders from Monday 19th January. Once orders are completed, orders can be picked up by yourself or your child from the Uniform Shop during opening hours.

For further information on the College Uniform Shop including the 2026 price list, joining Flexischools, and more, please use the Oakhill College website link here: https://www.oakhill.nsw.edu.au...

Normal term time opening hours re-commence from Monday 9th February. 

Wednesday is a new day of trade, and we are calling for volunteers who can assist. If you are willing and able to assist the College Uniform Shop, please contact Ms Renee Chong, Administration Manager at rchong@oakhill.nsw.edu.au

If students would like to purchase a House T-shirt, they may do so via the College Uniform Shop. House T-shirts are optional and may be worn to Swimming and Athletics Carnivals only.