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| 7 Sep 2025 | |
| Written by Tianna Kelly | |
| General News |
What a grand finale Term 3 has been!
We have celebrated an extraordinary number of achievements across the school community:
Last weekend, we were delighted to welcome over 90 guests for the NEGS Old Girls’ Long Weekend, beginning with the remarkable Class of 1965. It was a heart-warming occasion filled with connection, celebration, and cherished memories.
Today, we farewelled our Year 12s at their Valedictory, marking the end of a significant and inspiring journey. Goodbyes are never easy, and I thank our Year 12s for the way they have wholeheartedly embraced the NEGS Way.
Throughout their time at NEGS, they experienced multiple seasons of growth. Their achievements have gone above and beyond - whether in academics, debating, hockey, netball, rugby, athletics, or equestrian.
I am confident our 2025 Seniors leave NEGS as confident, capable young women, ready for all that lies ahead.
A special thank you to our inspiring guest speaker, Emily Caska - a proud NEGS Old Girl, Chief Executive Officer of Playgroup NSW, and founder of the Down Syndrome Institute. Emily’s leadership and service to thousands of families across NSW is remarkable, and we look forward to staying connected with her.
Wishing you all a safe and restful Spring break.
I look forward to welcoming you back in Term 4.
Ms Liz van Genderen
Principal
As Term Three draws to a close, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to our Year 12 students on reaching this pivotal moment in their final year of schooling. It has been a term filled with memories and meaningful achievements. Not only for our senior cohort, but across the entire student body.
From academic accomplishments to leadership, creative pursuits, and community contributions, our students have shown dedication, resilience, and a spirit of excellence. We’ve been proud to celebrate these successes together, and we thank our staff and families for their continued support in nurturing these outcomes.
As Year 12 head into their final holiday break before the HSC examinations, we wish them a restful and productive term break. This is a time to recharge, reflect, and prepare with purpose. Whether revising content, attending study sessions, or simply taking care of wellbeing, every step taken now supports a confident and capable finish.
Looking Ahead to Term 4, with warmer weather on the horizon, we remind families that Summer School Uniforms will resume next term. Please ensure students are prepared with appropriate attire. Maintaining a neat and consistent appearance reflects our shared values, demonstrating respect and pride in our school along with the readiness to learn.
To all students and families
Thank you for a term filled with growth, celebration, and community spirit. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for a strong and vibrant Term 4.
Summer Uniform Requirements
Girls (Senior and Junior School)
Students are required to wear:
Boys (Junior School)
Students are required to wear:
Please note:
In our Uniform Shop, you will find a range of optional items available for purchase, including the NEGS scarf, all-weather winter jackets, and hoodie. It's important to note that these items are not part of the everyday uniform.
The NEGS scarf and navy shell jacket are intended for winter use only and should not be worn as part of the Summer uniform.
Mrs Heidi Dent
Deputy Principal
Summer Uniform – Term 4
Uniform continues to be an important focus for our Junior School. Please see the Deputy Principal’s report for further details regarding uniform, haircuts, and jewellery. As we return for Term 4, students are expected to be in the correct summer uniform. The upcoming school break is a good opportunity to check that all items are in line with our uniform requirements, clearly labelled with your child’s name, and in good condition.
Junior School Nativity Play
At NEGS Junior School, we embrace opportunities for students to try new things, flourish, and build confidence. Our music and performance program is a wonderful way for students to experience these opportunities. Every second year, the Junior School presents a full musical production. In alternate years, we celebrate with our much-loved Nativity Play – a joyful performance that brings our junior school community together. Some students will be involved in rehearsals on Monday afternoons in Term 4, and Mrs Packer will contact families directly regarding attendance and expectations.
The Nativity Play will take place on Monday 24th November, following our Celebration of Learning, and will conclude with our Junior School picnic lunch. Please be sure to mark this important date in your calendar.
Heartily Day
This week, NEGS proudly celebrated Heartily Day, a day to celebrate NEGS inspired by our motto, “Whatsoever you do, do it heartily.”
When Florence Green founded our school over 130 years ago, her vision was not only to provide academic excellence but also to prepare students to contribute positively to an ever-changing world. Heartily Day honours this legacy by encouraging us all to approach our learning, relationships, and service with commitment, diligence, and wholehearted effort.
As part of the celebration, students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 worked together on the Heartily Tree, a collaborative art project symbolising the important role each person plays in the life and culture of our school. Just as each piece of the tree contributes to the whole, every student’s effort enriches the spirit of NEGS.
Mrs Deanna Ford
Junior School Coordinator/Year 6 Teacher
The Valedictory celebrations for the graduating Year 12 cohort provided a fitting conclusion to a remarkable journey. This group of young women has distinguished itself not only through academic commitment but also through the strength of its unity and the generosity with which its members have supported one another. Their collective endeavour has been characterised by diligence, resilience, and a profound sense of camaraderie, qualities that have enriched the culture of scholarship at NEGS.
The academic achievements of the Class of 2025 are truly noteworthy. It was a source of great pride to witness that nearly every student was recognised with an academic award at Valedictory. This extraordinary result reflects years of perseverance, discipline, and a genuine love of learning. Such accomplishments are not earned in isolation; they are the fruit of sustained effort and the mutual encouragement that this cohort so consistently exemplified.
Special commendation is reserved for Saskia Jeffery-Bilich, who received the distinction of Academic Honours for attaining six As in her Stage 6 courses. This accolade, the highest internal award conferred by the School, testifies to Saskia’s intellectual ability, consistency, and determination. Her achievement serves as an inspiration to all students, affirming the heights that can be reached when aspiration is matched with effort.
The legacy of the Class of 2025 lies not only in their individual successes, but also in the example they have set for those who follow them. Their academic discipline, their willingness to encourage and uplift their peers, and their steadfast pursuit of excellence will remain a guiding standard within our community.
As these young women prepare to embark upon the next stage of their journeys, we extend to them our gratitude and admiration. We wish them well as they take up life’s high enterprise and, in the words that have long inspired generations at NEGS, never the vision wholly lose.
Mr Ryan Caldwell
Director of Teaching and Learning
Over Terms 2 and 3, our Year 9 and 10 PASS students have embraced an exciting and diverse range of physical activities as part of their Lifestyle, Leisure and Recreation unit. This program gave students the opportunity to step outside the classroom and discover just how many ways there are to stay active, healthy and connected.
From the fast-paced rallies of Pickleball to the heights of Rock Climbing, students challenged themselves in new environments, building both confidence and teamwork. The Trampolining sessions proved to be a highlight, with students testing their agility, balance and coordination in a fun, high-energy atmosphere. Swimming not only improved fitness but also reinforced the importance of water safety, while hiking encouraged students to appreciate the outdoors, developing resilience and a deeper awareness of the benefits of nature for wellbeing.
Bowling offered a social and competitive twist, allowing students to enjoy physical activity in a more relaxed setting, while the snow skiing excursion was a true standout — for many, it was their first time on the slopes, and it quickly became a memorable highlight of the unit.
What made this unit so rewarding was not just the wide variety of activities, but also the way students grew in their understanding of what counts as physical activity. They discovered that being active doesn’t always mean structured sport — it can also be adventurous, creative, social and fun.
We are proud of the enthusiasm, teamwork and positive attitude shown by all students across the two terms, and we look forward to seeing how they continue to embrace active and healthy lifestyles in the future.
Ms Kristin Willis
HoF CAPAD/Year 12 Advisor/PDHPE Teacher
Year 9/10 Food Tech explored the Silk Road this term, linking history, geography, and cuisine.
Students researched traded ingredients and practiced core techniques - mise en place, knife skills, stock development, dough work, sensory evaluation, and safe kitchen routines. Our final ‘Silk Road Feast’ featured dumplings, ramen, baklava, and strawberry-matcha ice cream, showcasing flavour balance, plating, and time management. As highlighted in our recent social media post, students connected trade routes to modern fusion cooking and reflected on sustainability and substitutions. We’re proud of their teamwork, curiosity, and delicious results!
Mr Andrew Duggan-Smith
Art/Design Teacher
New Caledonia Trip
Due to a lack of numbers, the New Caledonia study tour has been postponed to 2026. Thank you to those who expressed interest.
Ms Philipa Tlaskal
English/French Teacher
HSC DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY MAJOR DESIGN PROJECT SEMINAR
Commencing the Major Design Project for the start of Term 4 is a daunting task. To support the girls on their MDP Journey we had an excursion to Uralla to view Niche and Target marketing at the Wool Store. We also were lucky enough to view Russ’s Passion for innovative ideas, excellent communication skills combined with life-long learning displayed by Teresa’s use of the laser cutter at the Model Making Shop. After a slightly late morning tea we went onto research the Seasons of New England to gain a good insight into the makers of the New England Region and the range of ideas where we saw a previous student of NEGS, Anna Sutherland, creating beautiful ideas such as Tea Towels which she screen prints and makes. Anna’s project some ten years ago was a NEGS ROAD SAFETY CENTRE as seen on the right.
The girls listened attentively, as Tara discussed relevant features of the designers and makers.
While at Uralla the girls visited the Uralla Wool Room reviewing manufacturing of Australian Made Items.
At New England Models and Hobbies, the family business of Russ and Teresa creates a variety of models for international military clients. Russ discussed his excellent communication and technical skills while Teresa showed off her laser cutting processes which may be included in Isobel’s Architectural MDP.
HSC ART MAJOR SEMINAR
On the 23rd of September, the HSC Visual Arts girls went on an inspiration journey viewing the final pieces at That Framing Place to excellent HSC Painting, drawings, etchings and photographic works from the ARTEXPRESS exhibition at NERAM.
The girls listened attentively, as the owner Kym discussed presenting Artworks, Labelling and how to create a theme as a response to the Artist desired work.
Kym also prints high quality archival works as the girls may choose photography as their chosen artform.
While at NERAM the girls also visited the Printing Museum and viewed how the Etching Printing process worked.
The final session of the day was for the girls to identify 3 artworks which inspired them and include the artists statement into the their Zines
TWELVEPOINTS PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP with Jim A Barker
Year 11 Visual Arts girls participated in a whole day workshop with Jim A Barker. Jim has won some prestigious Photography Awards and has recently produced a book showcasing the Creative Talents of the New England Region. Jim is very passionate about his photographic work and the girls learnt about the working mechanics of cameras and how to create interesting still life photos from the items in the Archive Section at NEGS. Jim’s work also features in the genre of Street Photography, where he captures the feelings and moods at specific events. Jim just returned from photographing the Broken Hill Show and due to his veterinary family background photographically record the action and ambience at rodeos and camp drafting. We are hoping to have another workshop in the future photographing the equestrian related areas.
Jim's high level of motivation and enthusiasm was highly appreciated by the girls and every moment was valued with a good understanding of photography being shown from the wonderful range of images presented.
WARATAH PROGRAM
New England Girls’ School participates in the AISNSW Waratah Initiative. This program is part of the government's priority to increase respect and understanding of Indigenous knowledge and culture throughout the community. A major focus of the program
requires a whole-of-school approach with high levels of understanding from Indigenous and non-Indigenous people are held. The prominent feature for Term 4 will be promoting student feelings of safety and belonging at school, and in the boarding environment.
The Young Tiddas on Country program is commencing next term with enrolments taking place for Year 3 to Yr 8 Girls for 2026.
Mr Thomas Degens
Design & Technology Teacher
YEAR 12 - FINAL CHECK-IN
Ms Fiona Munzenrieder
HSIE Teacher
As this final winter term draws to a close, I have been reflecting on the distinctive nature of school life and particularly boarding life. Boarding is an environment rich with opportunities, yet also filled with complexities. The highs and lows are often amplified, making it easy to see how challenging this environment can be for our students. As I have said throughout the term, boarding is about life learning, and in many ways it can be harder than academic responsibilities.
A central focus of our strategic plan this term has been to build stronger connections and foster kindness. Each week our students have taken part in a Kindness Challenge, designed to remind them of the joy that comes from looking beyond ourselves and doing small acts that lift others. We have also welcomed Dr Mary Kasper, who delivered The Friendship Project to our junior boarders. This program encouraged students to reflect on topics such as being a friend to themselves, how to be a good (not perfect) friend, recognising meanness, and navigating the often tricky waters of changing friendships.
Of course, teaching these lessons is only the first step. Reinforcing the values of service, kindness, and self-awareness requires a shared effort between students, staff, and families. Together, we can create an environment where positive relationships and growth flourish. I encourage all parents to consider the ways they communicate concerns or challenges, ensuring that these conversations are constructive and effective. Our shared goal remains the same - to provide a safe, positive and happy environment for every student.
This term also marked the completion of Stage Two of our Boarding Accreditation. The accreditation process involves detailed evidence across key areas of risk, aligned with the National Standard for Australian Boarding Schools. Through updated policies and procedures, we have already seen a significant reduction of risk in all key areas. We are confident that by the end of 2025, we will be ready for the final assessment. Achieving this accreditation will place NEGS among the few schools in Australia awarded a gold standard for boarding operations, something of which our entire community can be proud.
As we head into the break, I wish all families an enjoyable and restorative time together. May our boarders find rest, recharge and return ready for an action-packed Term 4.
Mrs Kassy Cassidy
Head of Boarding
Please see the Careers Newsletter HERE
Mr Mark Ambrose
Business Studies Teacher/Careers Advisor
Hockey
HNE Hockey – Finals Success
We are proud to celebrate the achievements of our NEGS Hockey teams in the HNE Competition Finals.
Our U14 Team played an outstanding Grand Final against United, one of the strongest teams in the competition. In a hard-fought game, they finished as Runners Up, showing determination and great sportsmanship throughout the season.
Our U12 Red Team faced Harlies in their Grand Final. After an intense and skilful match, NEGS came away victorious, securing the title of Grand Final Winners. Their teamwork and spirit were on full display, and the win was well deserved.
IGSA Hockey – Finals Wrap
What a fantastic end to the season for our IGSA Hockey program, with both our Junior and Senior teams making it through to the semi-finals and heading to Sydney for their final matches of the year.
The Junior IGSA Team faced Frensham in their semi-final, producing an excellent performance to claim a 4–0 victory. The momentum carried through to the Grand Final the following day, where the girls played with confidence and skill, defeating Ascham 3–0. This group has gone from strength to strength throughout the season, and every player represented NEGS with pride.
[photos]
The Senior IGSA Team lined up against defending champions, PLC Sydney, in their semi-final - a game that proved to be one of the matches of the tournament. Leading for much of the contest, NEGS were heartbroken when PLC equalised with just seconds remaining. Into extra time, and with the crowd on edge, Heidi Zwiers and Tabitha Havas drove the ball into the attacking 25 in the dying moments. A short corner was awarded, and with time up, Molly Collett created the chance that Felicity Chapman coolly converted, sealing a thrilling victory.
The Grand Final saw NEGS take on an exceptionally strong Pymble side. Despite a brave performance, Pymble proved too strong, and our girls finished as Runners Up for the second year in a row. To finish as one of the top two teams at the highest level of schoolgirl hockey two years running, is an outstanding achievement and we are incredibly proud of their efforts.
HNE Awards
We are very pleased to announce that Willa Maples has been awarded Junior Female Goalkeeper of the Year for 2025. Congratulations Willa - we are extremely proud of your achievement and the development you have shown over the past two years.
Indoor Hockey
We are excited to be offering Term 4 Indoor Hockey for those who wish to play. This is a fantastic opportunity for new players to try hockey in a fun and social environment.
If you are interested in participating, please email Miss Kenny.
Summer Hockey Opportunities
Our Hockey Program will continue throughout the summer season. Please see below for details:
COD Hockey (2011–2015 Age Groups): Tuesdays, 3.45–5.45pm. Run by Hockey NSW, this program is a development opportunity where students work towards the Regional Challenge in February - a three-day carnival for these age groups. Please email Miss Kenny for more information.
ADP Hockey Training (Years 7–12): Tuesdays, 5.30–7.30pm (NEGS Pitch). A five-week training block for selected ADP students, running 28 October – 25 November (Term 4).
JADP (K–6): Wednesdays, 3.30–4.30pm (NEGS Pitch).
Indoor Hockey (K–12): Junior School (K–6): Thursday afternoons, Senior School (Years 7–12): Friday afternoons - Matches only, we don't train for this as it is a social competition to keep up your skills over summer and for new people to give it a try.
Netball
We are very proud of the achievements of our NEGS netballers this term.
Representative Netball
IGSA Netball
Our Junior IGSA Netball team had an excellent end to their season. In the semi final, they produced a strong performance against Frensham, coming away with a 19–16 victory. This result secured their place in the Grand Final against PLC Sydney. Despite a determined effort, the team was unable to carry their momentum from the semi final, going down 10–25 to a very strong PLC side.
Our Senior IGSA Netball team enjoyed a brilliant season across all competitions, with their IGSA campaign a particular highlight. The team finished the round games at the top of the table and went on to defeat Roseville College in the semi final on Friday. In the Grand Final, they faced Frensham and claimed a hard-fought 32–27 victory. An outstanding achievement and a fitting reward for the team’s hard work and commitment throughout the season.
ADNA Competition
It was an exciting finish to the ADNA season with some excellent results across our teams:
This victory was a fitting farewell for our Year 12 students – Isabel Schweitzer, Lillie Kentwell, and Jorja Curry – who have contributed so much to NEGS Netball.
Awards
At the ADNA presentations, NEGS celebrated further success:
Athletics
IGSA Athletics
The athletics season concluded on a high note for Ivy Pritchard, in her final appearance representing NEGS and IGSA. Ivy competed at the CIS Carnival on Tuesday 23 September, where she delivered a superb performance in the 1500m, securing a bronze medal with an excellent time of 5:22. A wonderful way to finish her IGSA athletics journey.
Term 4 Sport Options - Senior School
We are delighted to offer a wide range of sporting opportunities for students in Term 4. Please see below for details of each activity:
If your child has not signed up but is keen for any of the below please email Miss Kenny on ella.kenny@negs.nsw.edu.au
Twilight Netball Competition
NEGSFit – Strength & Conditioning
NEGS Hockey – Centre of Development Training Hub
NEGS is proud to be a Centre of Development Hockey Training Hub in partnership with Hockey NSW.
This program includes commitment to the Regional Challenge Carnival (Thursday 27 February – Sunday 1 March), representing the Northern Inland Thunderbolts.
Run Club
Tennis
Line Dancing
Touch Football – Town Competition
Basketball – Town Competition (EOI Only)
Indoor Hockey – Town Competition
Swimming – FULL - Waitlist only
Rifle Club
Junior School Term 4 Sport Options
We are excited to offer a range of sporting opportunities for our Junior School students in Term 4. Please see below for details: If your child has not signed up but is keen for any of the below, please email Miss Kenny on ella.kenny@negs.nsw.edu.au
NEGSFit
Details: A fantastic opportunity to develop key components of fitness including cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance and flexibility, all delivered by our Strength & Conditioning Coach, Bec Collins.
JADP – Junior Athlete Development Program (Hockey & Netball)
Details: A skills-based program to build confidence and game awareness, while keeping hockey and netball fun and engaging for both beginners and experienced players.
JADP – Tennis
Indoor Hockey – Town Competition
Touch Football – Town Competition
Ms Ella Kelly
Head of Sport
Strength & Conditioning Sessions: Open to All NEGS Staff and Friends!
Dear NEGS Staff and Friends,
We are excited to offer a Strength & Conditioning session on Thursday mornings, from 6:15-7:15 am, in our MPC Gym (Upstairs). These sessions are open to all members of the NEGS community—including friends and family!
Details:
Dates:
Cost:
Why Join?
Ready to get stronger? Complete the S&C Expressions of Interest form to register! (Link attached)
Let’s work together to build strength, boost confidence, and achieve new fitness goals. Don't miss out on this awesome opportunity to start your mornings strong!
Bec Collins
Strength & Conditioning Coach
M: 0447 200 271
E: Bec.collins@negs.nsw.edu.au
Wise Owl Tuition
Wise Owl Tuition is a tutoring service that supports students aged 6 to 16 — especially those with learning difficulties such as Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, ADHD and DLD.
We offer personalised 1:1 tutoring from qualified teachers with at least 5 years experience, and our approach is warm, flexible, and tailored to the individual. We use programs recommended by the Dyslexia Speld Foundation, such as Sounds Write and Heggerty, among others.
We also create practical resources for teachers and learning support staff, aimed at supporting neurodiverse learners in inclusive classrooms.
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