This week, we celebrated our Year 12 students — young women who are strong, capable, and have contributed to the rich history of NEGS. Thank you to the parents, families, and loved ones for walking alongside your daughters, providing support and encouragement throughout her school days. Congratulations; you made it! Girls, as you prepare to embark on the next chapter of your lives, we wish you every success as you pursue your chosen pathways and careers in:

• Beauty School
• Business
• Criminology
• Law
• Marketing
• Nursing
• Real Estate
• Riding
• Teaching
• The Navy
• Veterinary Science
• Working on a ranch

In the words of J.R.R. Tolkien: "The greatest adventure is what lies ahead."

We were thrilled to welcome Stephanie van Eyk as our guest speaker for Valedictory. Stephanie graduated from NEGS in 1994. After leaving school, she studied journalism and worked as a rural journalist and sub-editor for Fairfax Media (formerly Rural Press) from 1997 to 2018. Since 2018, Stephanie has focused on her family business, van Eyk Family Farming. In 2023, she joined the Animal Ethics Committee at the University of New England as a community or category D member. The committee oversees the use of animals in research to ensure they are treated humanely and that the use of animals for research is justified. Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing your journey and wisdom post NEGS.

Click below for more photos.

Chapel Service

Awards

Valedictory Lunch

Year 12 Formal

National Police Remembrance Day - 29 September
On Friday, I was accompanied by 2025 Deputy Head Prefect Jorja Curry and Academic and Cultural Prefect Lucy Coelho to honour the members of the NSW Police Force who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the execution of their duty.

Announcement of Senior Leaders for 2025

It gives me great pleasure to announce our leaders for 2025.

Head Prefect:  Zahlie Cabot

Deputy Head Prefect: Jorja Curry

Academics and Culture Prefect: Lucy Coelho

Community and Service Prefect: Grace Rogers

Sports Prefect: Regan Simpson

Boarding Prefect: Isabel Schweitzer

Our Prefect Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, 15 October 2024, at 1:50 PM. This special event will honour our newly appointed prefects, who are stepping into crucial roles in upholding our school values and promoting a positive environment.

Change of  Date: Year 10 Semi-Formal Celebration on 23 November 2024

The Year 10 Semi-Formal has been changed to Saturday, 23 November 2024. Invitations will be sent out at the beginning of Term 4.

Ms Liz van Genderen

Principal

Committing to Excellence

As the term draws to a close, we reflect on the extraordinary achievements of our sports teams across various disciplines, embodying the spirit of excellence that defines our school community. This term, our IGSA netball and hockey teams, rugby squad, and equestrian athletes have exemplified determination, teamwork, and a commitment to performing at the highest levels.

Our IGSA netball teams have set a remarkable standard of perseverance and skill on the court. Throughout the season, they faced tough competition but rose to the challenge with every game. The team’s ability to work cohesively, applying tactical knowledge and sharp reflexes, has been instrumental in their success. Their dedication to improving their game week by week was evident in their outstanding results, and their hard-fought victories reflect their relentless pursuit of excellence. Our players have not only developed as athletes, but also as leaders and collaborators.

In hockey, our IGSA teams have shown tremendous resilience and growth, with players demonstrating exceptional technical abilities and strategic thinking. The balance between defensive strength and offensive flair has been crucial to their victories, and their passion for the sport was reflected in each match. We are particularly proud of their teamwork and sportsmanship, which have earned them accolades both on and off the field. Their journey this term is a testament to their commitment to constant improvement and mastery of the game.

Our rugby teams have also made us incredibly proud. Their grit, determination, and tactical play have been outstanding. The players' ability to overcome physical and mental challenges speaks volumes about their character and commitment to the game. Each member of the team has shown tremendous courage, not just in securing wins but also in the way they support each other on and off the field. Their success this term is a true reflection of the spirit of perseverance.

Meanwhile, our equestrian riders continue to impress in their pursuit of excellence. Competing in various events, they have shown tremendous skill, precision, and grace. Equestrian sports require a unique blend of discipline, trust, and partnership between horse and rider, and our athletes have embraced these challenges wholeheartedly. Their commitment to training and their passion for the sport have resulted in commendable performances throughout the term.

As we celebrate these achievements, we are reminded that excellence is not a destination, but a continuous journey. The dedication of our teams and athletes serves as an inspiration for all of us to strive for our personal best in every aspect of life. We look forward to seeing what the next term will bring.

Stay safe, see you next term

Mr Jamie Moore

Deputy Principal/PDHPE and CAFS Teacher

As the HSC exam period draws near, it is crucial that our Year 12 students at NEGS make the most of their remaining time to prepare effectively. 

One of the most valuable study strategies is thorough revision, particularly through the completion of past HSC papers. 

Why is revision so important? Revision helps students reinforce what they have learned throughout the year. By revisiting content, students can identify areas of strength and, more importantly, areas where they may need extra attention. 

Active revision — reworking notes, summarizing key concepts, and applying knowledge to questions — ensures that students retain and understand the material, rather than merely memorizing it. Completing past HSC papers offers an additional, essential layer to this preparation. These papers are one of the best ways to get familiar with the format, types of questions, and the level of difficulty they will face in the real exams. By working through these papers under timed conditions, students build exam confidence and learn to manage their time effectively. 

Key benefits of using past papers in preparation are: 

1. Understanding exam structure: Past papers allow students to familiarize themselves with how questions are structured and the common themes that appear in exams. This insight enables them to approach their exams with a clear strategy.
2. Refining time management: Completing practice papers under exam conditions helps students develop a realistic sense of how long they should spend on each section. This prevents rushing through questions or running out of time in the actual exam.
3. Targeting areas for improvement: After completing a past paper, students can assess which areas they struggle with and focus their revision on these topics. It is much more effective to address weaknesses during practice than on exam day. 

At NEGS, we encourage our Year 12 students to make use of the school’s resources — teachers, study guides, and practice papers — to maximize their exam readiness. Additionally, seeking feedback from teachers on completed practice papers can help students understand where they can improve. 

As a supportive school community, we encourage parents and guardians to help create an environment conducive to study at home. Encouraging healthy routines that balance study, breaks, and rest, is key to maintaining well-being during this intensive period. 

Best of luck to all our Year 12 students as they continue their preparations. By embracing revision strategies and utilising past HSC papers, they are setting themselves up for success, not only in their exams, but for the future challenges they will face in their academic and professional lives.

Mr Ryan Caldwell

Director of Teaching and Learning/English Teacher

As we close out this term, we want to take a moment to reflect on our students' incredible achievements and share our excitement for the upcoming events next term. It has been a rewarding few months, and we’re excited about what lies ahead.

This term, our students have demonstrated remarkable growth and enthusiasm in their studies and extracurricular activities. We’ve seen wonderful participation in classroom learning, sports, and community initiatives. Thank you for your ongoing support and encouragement.

Upcoming Events Next Term

We have a fantastic lineup of events that promise to be engaging and enjoyable for our students and families. The dates for each event will be in the school calendar, and reminders will be sent fortnightly in the ‘What’s Happening’.

Some Things to Look Forward To

• Colour Run: Get ready to run for fun! Our annual Colour Run is not just fitness; it’s a celebration of community spirit. Join us for an afternoon full of laughter and colour.
• Sports Dinner: Celebrate our athletes and their hard work at the Sports Dinner. This event is a chance to congratulate our teams and recognise their achievements throughout the year.
• Twilight Fair: Mark your calendars for our Twilight Fair. With games, food, and entertainment, it’s an evening of fun for the whole family. We encourage all parents to volunteer and help make it a memorable event. Keep your eyes peeled for information about how you can contribute.
• Musical: Our students are hard at work preparing for our musical production. It promises to be a fantastic showcase of talent, creativity, and teamwork. 
• Swimming and Gymnastics: Next term will also include swimming and gymnastics lessons, which will enhance our students’ skills and promote physical fitness. A permission note and further details will be sent out soon.
• Celebration of Learning: This event will highlight our students' achievements. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to come together in recognition of our learning and growth throughout the year.
• Year 6 Dinner: A special evening for our Year 6 students to celebrate their primary years. It promises to be a night filled with fun, friendship, and reflection as they prepare for the next stage of their educational journey.
• Step-Up Day: On this day, students will experience a taste of their next grade level. It’s an exciting opportunity for them to experience new spaces, helping to ease the transition for the following year.
• Service Week: We’re thrilled to engage in Service Week once again this year, where students will participate in various community service projects. This initiative encourages empathy and social responsibility, allowing our students to give back and make a difference.

Summer Uniform

Next term, we will move into our summer uniform. 

**Students are required to have their blazer at school daily but aren't obligated to wear them in warm weather. Jumpers may be worn in the playground but must be paired with a blazer when attending Assembly, Chapel, or leaving the school grounds.

The Little Mermaid Musical

Preparations for this hit Junior School musical are steaming ahead. Thank you to the parents who generously gave their time the other week to paint the stage sets. You did a wonderful job; they look amazing.

Tickets are just $22 each for children and adults, tickets are on sale now.

Buy tickets here.

Stay Connected

We encourage you to engage with your child about these upcoming events. Discussing what they’re looking forward to can help build excitement and anticipation.

Thank you for your continued support this term. We are looking forward to a vibrant and active next term filled with memorable experiences for our students.

Wishing you all a restful break and looking forward to seeing everyone back, ready for a fantastic new term.

Mrs Heidi Dent

Junior School Coordinator/Year 6 Teacher

2024 Girls Night In

We are holding our Girl's Night In at the beginning of term 4, and we look forward to welcoming girls joining NEGS next year into Senior School. Join us for a fun overnight sleepover at NEGS Armidale! Make new friends, explore our boarding house, and take part in exciting activities. Discover what makes our community special!

Date: 17-18 October 2024
Location: NEGS Armidale, NSW, 2350

Learn more by clicking here!

🌟 Places still available in 2025! 🌟

There are still spots available for 2025! If you know families who would thrive in our vibrant community, we encourage you to refer them to us.

As a thank you, our Parent Referral Program rewards you for each successful referral. It’s a wonderful way to share the NEGS experience and help new families join us!

Let’s work together to make 2025 a remarkable year! For more details on the referral program, please email us at enrolments@negs.nsw.edu.au or call Lyn O'Neill on (02) 6774 8700.

Trois petits Cochons - Three Little Pigs - French Drama Performances 

This term, the Years 8 and 10 French classes have been learning the script for ‘The Three Little Pigs’ in French to perform as a play using the Canadian AIM gesture method. The students have been very enthusiastic playing the wolves and pigs. They painted their own sets and props (thanks, Miss Sorby, for your help) and were able to put on a very entertaining performance. 

Special thanks to Mackenzie, Imogen and Pippa for their excellent sound effects. 

French has come alive for them in these performances and hopefully will foster a love of language learning in the future!

Ms Philipa Tlaskal

English and French teacher - Senior School

Food Technology Stage 5 -  Showstopper Cake Designs

This term, Year 9/10 Food Technology elective explored the unit ‘Food for Special Occasions.’ During the unit, students learnt about different cake piping and decoration techniques. These included fondant, cricut cutting techniques, creating icing designs and using chocolate to create a range of cake toppers.

Girls learnt about how different cultures celebrate New Year’s Eve around the world; such as the Diwali festival and Chinese New Year, and the different Social, Religious and Historical foods they use in these celebrations. When given our assessment and research tasks, each girl was asked to plan a New Year’s Eve party and create a show stopping cake to use at the event. Given full creative freedom, the girls went above and beyond in exotic party planning with some planned on Bondi Beach in Sydney, on a yacht, in Greece, all stacking up to record costs. Providing an event overview, and food and beverage menus, we were encouraged to think outside the box with decorations and menu ideas to make it a party to remember. The process included each girl being required to bake their cake or cakes the day before then decorate with their design.  

Chelsea Curry

Year 10 Food Technology

Livestock Team

Our Livestock students have been working very hard in preparing our show team this term. We attended the Quirindi show and in Week 2 of next term, our team will head to Scone Beef Bonanza.

Results from Quirindi Show

Heidi Zwiers Champion Junior Judge and 5th in paraders

Sarah Barclay 4th Senior Judging

Bridget Strachan Highly Commended Junior Judging

Shady - 1st in the lightweight steers

Rebel - 3rd lightweight steer

Rufus - 4th middleweight steer

Plus two highly commended in middle weight steers.

Congratulations to Red Roc who was 2nd in the heavyweight steers and

Reserve champion steer.

Stud limousin heifer

Clifton Tartan U28- 5th Junior Heifer show

Breed class

1st heifer 12-16 months

Reserve champion Junior Heifer

Thank you to our breeders for their support Clifton Cattle and the Honess family. 

All the members of our team should be commended on their hard work and dedication to prepare these animals to this quality.

Ms Jordyn Snape

Agriculture Teacher

NEGS Senior School Visual Arts Update

This term has been an exciting one for our budding artists across all year levels at NEGS Senior School!

Year 7 students have been exploring the world of still life and experimenting with various artmaking techniques. They've explored the art of printmaking, created vibrant collages, and produced complementary-colour paintings, all in a bid to sharpen their observational skills and learn about composition in art.

Year 8 students have fully embraced their creative side through the mythical creature unit. Tasked with designing a monster or mythical being, they have transitioned from sketches to clay, sculpting their imaginative creations into three-dimensional forms.

Meanwhile, Years 9 to 12 have been hard at work improving their theoretical understanding of art. These senior students have focused on artist research and refining their essay construction, ensuring they can articulate their ideas clearly and critically, preparing them for future academic pursuits, especially year 12, who finish up this week. We wish them well with their HSC exams.

It's been a rewarding term full of growth, creativity, and learning! I look forward to sharing more artmaking with you in the coming term. 

Miss Erika Sorby

Visual Art Teacher

Read this week's Careers Newsletter HERE.

Mr Mark Ambrose

Careers Advisor/Business Studies Teacher

Year 11 Student and Parent Information Evening

Join us for an informative evening dedicated to supporting our current Year 11 students and their parents! On Monday, 14 October, at 5 p.m. in the Assembly Hall, we’ll explore the theme of "Academic Success in Year 12." This session promises valuable insights and practical tips to help students thrive in their final year of high school. Refreshments will be provided, so come ready to engage and connect. We look forward to seeing you there!

Click here to register.

Become a Stallholder at the NEGS Twilight Fair

Join us for the NEGS Twilight Fair on November 8! This exciting community event promises an evening filled with fun, food, and festivities for all ages. Stalls will feature local crafts, delicious treats, and unique gifts—perfect for starting your holiday shopping! If you're interested in showcasing your products or services, we’d love to hear from you!

Email us at community.nsw.edu.au or call (02) 6774 8700 to reserve your stall. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to connect with the community.

Looking for volunteers to:

• Join the organising committee
• Assist with set up on Friday, 8 November, from 11am onwards 
• Help with the organisation of your Year Group Stall
• Help drop flyers around town to promote the Market
• Coordinate the external stallholders

Year Group Stall Responsibilities

YEAR GROUP STALLS

• Pre-Kindergarten / Kindergarten Craft / colouring in Stall and Choc a Lob
• Year 1/2 Lemonade Stall and Popcorn
• Year 3/4 Tombola
• Year 5 Cake Stall (though we ask all within our community to bake and contribute to this stall)
• Year 6 Recycled Fashion 
• Year 7 Plants and outdoor items
• Year 8 Lolly Stand / Guess the number of Lollies in the Jar / Fairy Floss 
• Year 9 Hobby Horse
• Year 10 Face Painting
• Year 11 Second-hand books

Other Stalls: (that will need parent volunteers)

• BBQ
• Sports Games
• Raffle

How can you help? Please let us know at community@negs.nsw.edu.au

The Little Mermaid Musical

Dive into a world of magic and adventure as we present The Little Mermaid in the Assembly Hall at NEGS on November 21 at 11 AM and November 22 at 6 PM! Experience the beloved story of Ariel, the curious young mermaid, as she dreams of life on land and encounters unforgettable characters along the way.

Tickets are just $22 each for children and adults, making it the perfect outing for the whole family. Don’t miss this enchanting performance filled with delightful music, dazzling choreography, and a timeless tale of love and courage!

Get your tickets now and make a splash with us at NEGS!