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| 16 Sep 2024 | |
| Written by Tianna Kelly | |
| General News |
As we approach the end of this term, I reflect on our core value for Term 3: Excellence. Excellence achieved through intentional and consistent actions.
By consistently applying ourselves—whether in academics, sports, co-curricular, or personal development—we set ourselves up for long-term success. Trust and predictability are essential components of this and help create an environment where students, staff, and families know what to expect. This reliability helps create an environment where excellence becomes a habit.
As we look ahead, I wish our senior netball team and junior and senior hockey teams the best for the upcoming IGSA finals next week. Your dedication and hard work exemplify the excellence we strive for, and I know you will do us proud.
I extend my congratulations to our Year 12 students as they celebrate the end of their high school journey. As life’s gifts continue to unfold, be sure to cherish the celebrations. You are creating memorable moments. I wish you every success and happiness.
Ms Liz van Genderen
Principal
Refocusing on Excellence After Disappointment
Disappointment can feel like a roadblock on the path to success, but it often serves as a crucial turning point. When faced with setbacks, it's easy to lose sight of our goals and question our commitment to excellence. However, these moments can also offer profound opportunities for growth and recalibration.
Excellence isn't about never experiencing failure; it's about how we respond to it. When we encounter disappointment, it's essential to pause and reflect rather than rush to dismiss or ignore our feelings. Acknowledging the disappointment allows us to analyse what went wrong and identify areas for improvement. This reflection isn’t about self-criticism, or assigning blame, or making excuses but about understanding and strategising for better outcomes.
Once we have dissected the situation, the next step is refocusing. Setting clear, realistic goals helps re-establish a sense of direction and purpose. Break down these goals into actionable steps and keep your eyes on the prize. Surround yourself with supportive people who can offer encouragement and constructive feedback. Their perspective can be invaluable in refining your approach.
Remember, resilience is a cornerstone of excellence. Embracing setbacks as learning experiences rather than failures helps build the fortitude necessary to achieve long-term success. By staying committed to your principles and maintaining a forward-thinking
mindset, you transform disappointments into stepping stones toward your ultimate goals. My address at assembly on Monday referred to one of our Para-Athletes, Alexa Leary, who faced the ultimate challenge.
In essence, refocusing after disappointment involves both an honest assessment and a renewed dedication to your commitment to excellence. With each setback, you’re not starting over but rather advancing with greater knowledge and strength.
A few reminders around the last two weeks of term:
Remember to maintain a focus on the little things to ensure a smooth passage through the school day. Wear your correct uniform, and remember to be Punctual, Prepared and Positively engaged. Always be courteous and kind in your language, and be grateful for those who assist you.
Good luck to our IGSA and other sporting teams that have made it to their post-seasons. Remember to proudly represent the school, be exemplary in your sportspersonship, and thank those who have coached and supported you through your respective seasons.
Year 12, as you roll through to your final days at school, take time to look around and breathe in the experience as you will never be at school as a regular student again. Be sure that your actions and celebrations are respectful and well-deserved.
Mr Jamie Moore
Deputy Principal/CAFS PDHPE Teacher
Please save the date
YEAR 11 STUDENT AND PARENT INFORMATION EVENING - Monday 14 October at 5pm.
An information evening will be held for all Year 11 students and parents on Monday, 14 October, at 5 p.m. This session will be held in the Assembly Hall and will focus on 'Academic Success in Year 12'. The information provided is important for students and parents, and there will be tips on how to best navigate Year 12.
Refreshments will be provided.
We look forward to connecting with you at this event.
Striving for Excellence: Embracing Opportunities for Growth
As we reflect on the term so far, it’s clear that our students have made incredible strides and embraced a diverse array of opportunities with enthusiasm and commitment. Term 3 has been a vibrant array of experiences, each contributing to our shared goal of striving for excellence.
Our students have demonstrated what it means to be at their best. From the engaging 3-6 Camp, where students ventured beyond their comfort zones and built lasting memories, to the deep dives into learning units focused on enhancing core competencies of communication and citizenship, the spirit of exploration and growth has been evident.
The excitement continued with the Australian Maths Trust competition, where our students challenged their mathematical and problem-solving abilities. Similarly, the Year 6 tri-school debating rounds provided a platform for students to hone their critical thinking and public speaking abilities, engage in thoughtful discourse, and challenge their perspectives.
Book Week was a highlight, celebrating literature and creativity with various activities that sparked imagination and a love for reading. Following closely was Grandparents Day, a heartwarming occasion where our students could share their achievements and experiences with their grandparents, fostering connections and celebrating the importance of family in our community.
In the realm of co-curricular activities, our students have been extremely busy. On the sports front, Junior soccer, netball, and hockey teams have demonstrated skill and sportsmanship, while our creative talents have been on full display with musical preparations, including rehearsal and set design, as well as the fun filled sessions of the Creative Club. Additionally, our Cooking Club has been a popular addition, where students have explored new recipes, expanding their culinary skills.
Our musical ensembles, Songbirds and Saumarez Strings, have been busy practicing and exploring a range of music to grow their musicianship and creativity. Athletics saw our students shine in the IPSHA events, showcasing their competitive spirit and athletic abilities. Meanwhile, the New England Sings rehearsal provided a harmonious outlet for our budding vocalists, further enriching our school’s cultural landscape.
These experiences not only highlight the varied interests and talents of our students but also our commitment to providing a well-rounded education. By embracing these opportunities wholeheartedly, our students are not just participating in activities - they are cultivating their skills, broadening their horizons, and exemplifying what it means to strive for excellence.
We will share details about summer sports and Term 4 co-curricular activities in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more information on how your child can continue to engage in exciting new opportunities and experiences. Here’s to continuing our journey of growth and excellence together!
Mrs Heidi Dent
Junior School Coordinator/Year 6 Teacher
Our Junior School is busy rehearsing for The Little Mermaid, the NEGS musical of the Year. Make sure you save the Date. Tickets will go on sale on 27 September.
HOCKEY
IGSA Hockey
Congratulations to all involved in our trips to Sydney for the IGSA Hockey rounds. Our teams have made the finals and will play Abbotsleigh in the Semi-Finals on Friday, September 20.
Saturday Hockey
Congratulations to the u14 Hockey Team, who have made the finals. They will play against United at 9 a.m. at UNE this Saturday, 14 September. These girls have worked very hard, and we applaud their success. Good luck to all involved.
The U8s, U12s and U16s are finished for the season. We have seen such an improvement in skill this season, we cannot wait to see what's next from these budding hockey players.
I want to thank all involved in coaching and facilitating hockey this season: Rob Kelly, Rebecca Moore, Greg Doolan, Krishner Nagarajan, Brielle Ball, and Mark Ambrose. We could not run the program without your commitment and help.
A special shout-out to Felicity Chapman. Without this committed young lady, we wouldn't be able to play games of hockey. Felicity umpires for NEGS and in the HNE competition. She shows maturity, dedication, great character, respect and passion for the game. She is a great role model for our future hockey players.
And another shout out to Rhali Williams. Rhali has been such a champion this season; not only is she playing in the Division 1 and NEGS01 IGSA hockey teams as a year 7 student, but she also plays on the field for the u14, u16, and IGSA NEG02 teams. Rhali flies from field to field, game to game, changing from goalie kit to field kit, and she doesn't complain. We really appreciate you, Rhali. Thank you for your commitment to NEGS hockey.
NETBALL
IGSA Netball
Congratulations to the NEG01 Senior IGSA team, who have finished at the top of the table and will play against TARA in the semi-final on Friday, September 20, at 5.30pm at Sports Halls—Homebush.
RUGBY
Lorraine Townsend was named NIAS Athlete of the Year for Girls Rugby League, a tremendous achievement. We are very proud of you, Lorraine.
ATHLETICS
IGSA Athletics
Congratulations to all involved in the IGSA Athletics Team. See below for placegetters at the carnival
We had PB’s all round and the girls represented NEGS with pride and it was a wonderful few days.
From these results, Emily Simpson and Jessica Taylor have made the IGSA Team to compete at CIS at the end of September. Congratulations and good luck to you both.
IPSHA Athletics
A few weeks ago, we took 13 students down to Sydney to compete at the IPSHA Athletics Carnival. All students did very well, many getting PBs, and we also received someplace-getter ribbons. Well done to Charlie Bueming (200m), Miriam Hiscox (200m), Cleo Carter (100m), Kenzie Watson (100m), Matthew Roberts (100m), and Hendrix Dent (100m).
Armidale Athletics Club is holding ‘come and try athletics’ days (free) on September 18th and 25th at 4.15pm at Harris Park—see flyer for details.
TERM 4 SPORT
Senior school students have been sent expressions of interest for Term 4 sports. I will contact students and parents soon about registrations for Term 4 / Term 1 sports.
Junior school sports selections will be decided soon and shared with parents to discuss and decide what they would like to participate in.
Mrs Ella Kenny
Director of Sport and CoCurricular
Thank you to the parents who attended last week's P and F meeting. It was productive, and I am pleased to report that the special resolution was passed. This does not change how we operate as a parent body, but it changes our legal structure, allowing us to operate more efficiently. The minutes will be circulate
Planning is underway for the Twilight Fair, and we’re asking volunteers to help make it a success. Please consider how you can contribute to this event all contributions are welcome.
We are holding a planning meeting on Tuesday, September 17, and you are warmly invited to attend in person (Lee Room in Akaora) or via Zoom.
Looking for volunteers to:
ZOOM LINK FOR PLANNING MEETING - TUESDAY 17 SEPTEMBER AT 5.30PM
SPONSORSHIP
Looking for sponsorship:
Would your business or one you know consider sponsoring the NEGS Twilight Market? We would be delighted to discuss the mutual benefits. Please call either Fiona (P and F, President) or Lyn O'Neill at NEGS.
RAFFLE
MARKET STALLS
If you know of a business or have your own that would like to participate in the Twilight Market, please email community@negs.nsw.edu.au. We look forward to having an array of Stalls with a variety of goods, perfect for Christmas Shopping.
YEAR GROUP STALLS
Other Stalls: (that will need parent volunteers)
How can you help? Please let us know community@negs.nsw.edu.au
