Volume 14 2025

We are thrilled to announce our HSC Drama students have received numerous OnStage nominations – a true reflection of their dedication, creativity and excellence (and that of their amazing teacher, Ms Nandi!). ⁠

Group Performance Nominations⁠

• #cancelled – Bianca Alvarado, Nicholas Edwards, Isabella Giuntoli, Tiernan Prendergast, Amanda Radice⁠
• Little Town – Xerinn Biglang-awa, Michael Frisina, Gabriel Machain, Melanie Modrin⁠

Individual Project Nominations⁠

• Bianca Alvarado – What is the matter with Mary Jane?⁠
• Nicholas Edwards – The Riddler⁠
• Isabella Giuntoli – One Day⁠
• Melanie Modrin – Light Your Fire⁠
• Amanda Radice – Teaching Hamlet⁠

Well done to all our performers and teachers for this incredible recognition! ⁠

HSC Preparation and Holiday Workshops

As our Year 12 students prepare to sit their HSC exams, we take this moment to recognise the hard work, determination and resilience that they have shown, particularly in these final months. The journey through the past six years at Rosebank has shaped you into the young people you are today and we are proud of everything you have achieved.

The HSC is the culmination of your effort, and while it can feel daunting, remember that it is also an opportunity to showcase your learning. Stay focused, believe in your preparation, and keep pushing through these last few weeks - you are ready for this challenge.

We also remind all Year 12 students and their parents that a number of holiday workshops are running to support your preparation. These sessions will provide targeted guidance, revision and practice to help you feel confident going into each exam.

On behalf of the Rosebank community, we wish all Year 12 students every success in their HSC exams and every happiness as you take the next steps beyond school.

Dorian Kipriotis 
Dean of Learning

Senior School Updates

Year 11 Learning Progress Meetings – Transition to the HSC

As Term 4 begins, our Year 11 students will take an important step in their senior studies with key events scheduled for the first week of term. This will mark the formal transition into the Higher School Certificate (HSC) and provide an opportunity for students, families and teachers to reflect on academic performance and pathways moving forward.

An HSC Information Evening will be held at the College on Tuesday, 14 October at 6pm. This session will provide valuable guidance about Year 12 expectations, assessment requirements, and how families can best support their child throughout the HSC year.

The following day, students will attend their Learning Progress Meetings, where they will have the opportunity to discuss their studies in detail. After these meetings, students will also have the chance to make adjustments and finalise their pattern of study as they prepare to commence Year 12.

We encourage all families to engage actively in both events as together we support students in this exciting new phase of their learning journey.

Year 10 Transition Program

As Year 10 moves towards the completion of Stage 5, Rosebank College is committed to supporting students in their transition to the requirements and challenges of Stage 6 and future pathways. The Transition Program in Term 4 is designed to strengthen self-management, critical and creative thinking, project management and effective inquiry skills.

The program includes a variety of experiences that build resilience, encourage cooperation and prepare students for the demands of senior study. A key focus will also be on the NSW Education Standards Authority's (NESA) expectations regarding academic integrity and ethical scholarship as students begin their HSC journey.

Important Dates – Term 4, 2025 (Senior School)

• Tuesday, 14 October: Term 4 commences
• Monday, 20 – Friday, 24 October: Work Experience/Placement program
• Wednesday, 29 October – Friday, 7 November: Year 10 Examination Block
• Monday, 24 – Wednesday, 26 November: Minimum Standards Testing (normal classes outside testing)
• Tuesday, 25 November: Learning Progress Meeting
• Friday, 28 November: All My Own Work and Year 10 Transition Dinner

Kylie Carroll
Assistant Dean of Learning (Senior School)

Curriculum Captains in Focus

STEM

As the STEM Captain for 2025/2026, I am proud to help lead our school’s efforts in promoting science, technology, engineering and math. My focus this year is on fostering innovation and building an inclusive environment where every student feels empowered to explore their curiosity and creativity.

STEM is not just about solving problems—it is about thinking differently, working together and pushing boundaries. I will be working alongside students and staff to support hands-on learning, organise school-wide events like science fairs and design challenges and help launch new initiatives such as STEM clubs and peer mentoring programs.

One of my main goals is to ensure that all students, no matter their background or experience, feel welcome in STEM spaces. Innovation happens when diverse voices and ideas come together, and I am committed to creating opportunities where everyone can contribute and grow.

I am excited for a year full of collaboration, discovery and meaningful progress in our school’s STEM journey.

Jay Thakker
STEM Captain 2025-2026

Science 

Science is a large and diverse field at Rosebank. As the Science Captain for 2025/2026, my goal is to make it more accessible and enjoyable for all students. Throughout my term, I hope to inspire students to discover their passion for science through new opportunities and experiences. As well as encouraging them to consider one of the five senior sciences- biology, chemistry, earth and environmental science, investigating science and physics for their senior studies.

To promote science, I am focusing on initiatives such as weekly science clubs and the new noticeboard in Jamberoo Block to spread awareness to students. A key priority for me is encouraging more students, especially girls to take up typically male dominated subjects. With noticeable gender gaps in subjects such as physics and chemistry, I want to create a supportive and welcoming environment for girls in science and be a friendly face they can approach for guidance.

So far this term, we celebrated Science Week in Week 4, where houses competed for points in the Archimedes Challenge, named after the scientist who discovered the principle of buoyancy. The week was filled with science trivia questions leading to heated challenges of launching marshmallows and dropping eggs off the balcony. The week was a success, with Delany House taking out the grand final of 500 points. I would like to thank the science department for all their hard work in organising the challenges, as well as the students who participated or supported, who made the event so enjoyable.

My main goal is to see students grow in confidence and curiosity, particularly in Years 7-10, by providing support and opportunities to succeed in science. Overall, I am excited for the year ahead to see the science department flourish, to help students find their interests and strengths, and to foster a fun, inclusive and inspiring environment for the whole Rosebank Community.

Sophie Buttigieg
Science Captain 2025-2026

Middle School Updates

Year 8 ‘Bolt to the Future’ STEM program

This term, Year 8 students in Science and Mathematics have been investigating forces and energy through the design and testing of electric-powered cars. The program began with a launch day where students assembled their cars and experienced the thrill of racing them on a track.

In Science, students have focused on conducting fair tests by modifying different features of the cars to see how these changes affect speed. In Mathematics, they have applied their understanding of ratios to calculate speed and identify the most effective gear ratio for racing over a 7.5 m track. Recently, classes held heats to determine which teams will progress to the grand final race next term.

In Term 4, Technology lessons will focus on students learning to use Splat tools to create isometric drawings of their cars. These prototypes will allow students to visualise how their designs might look if built in real life.

To crown the overall winners, each team’s Science investigation, race results and prototype drawings will contribute to a combined score. The top team will be awarded the 2025 STEM Trophy, with their names engraved alongside past champions — a lasting recognition of creativity, problem-solving and teamwork.

The Festival of the Creative Spirit (FoCS) - Year 7 and 8 Discovery Week Program

FoCS will take place in Week 2, Term 4. This annual program invites students in Years 7 and 8 to step beyond the classroom and engage in one of fifteen interdisciplinary projects. Each project provides opportunities for students to explore their interests while developing creativity, problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills. Students have been informed of their group allocations and next term they will receive further details from their project teachers regarding uniform requirements and any associated excursions or incursions. The week will conclude with student-designed presentations and exhibitions, which will be shared with parents and the wider College community through videos and photo galleries.

As part of ConnectEd, Year 7 students will also participate in a combined incursion and excursion on Tuesday, 21 October. At College, students will take part in an Aboriginal Incursion featuring a smoking ceremony and workshops on artefacts, didjeridoo playing and storytelling — an important part of Rosebank's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). In addition, students will visit the Chau Chak Museum at the University of Sydney, where they will explore Ancient Egyptian artefacts through a guided tour and hands-on workshop, directly linking to their current ConnectEd topic, Waters of the Nile.

Important Dates – Term 4, 2025 (Middle School)

• Tuesday, 14 October: Term 4 commences
• Monday, 20 and Wednesday, 22 - Friday, 24 October: Festival of the Creative Spirit
• Tuesday, 21 October: Year 7 Aboriginal Incursion and Excursion to Chau Chak Museum, Year 8 Science excursion to Taronga Zoo
• Wednesday, 22 - Friday, 24 October: Year 9 Camp
• Wednesday, 29 October – Friday, 7 November: Year 9 Examinations block

Matthew Couani
Assistant Dean of Learning (Middle School)

With only limited spots remaining, now’s the perfect time to book — this is the final week of registrations.

Our October Holiday Program offers a wide range of engaging and inclusive activities for children aged 5 to 12. It’s a fantastic opportunity for your child to make new friends, explore their creativity, develop new skills and experience the welcoming spirit of Rosebank College.

These holidays we are excited to offer the following programs:

Adventure Arts

A hands-on, one-day experience for young creatives who love to build, paint, sculpt and explore. Children will work with natural materials and create art inspired by the outdoors. This is arts and crafts with a wild, adventurous twist — perfect for curious minds who like to get messy and think outside the box.

Dance

A joyful, all-inclusive, contemporary dance workshop that builds confidence, rhythm and creative expression. Whether your child is just starting out or already loves to move, this one-day program offers fun, freedom and connection through movement.

Specialised Sport – Football

Designed to develop technical skills and game awareness, this two-day program includes one-on-one coaching and small group sessions. Participants will take part in a variety of activities—such as games, drills and skills workshops—focused on key areas. Children will work on running with the ball, one-on-ones, striking/passing and first touch.

Multi-Sport Program

Our signature three-day program features high-energy games, movement-based challenges and team-building activities across a variety of sports. It is ideal for kids who love to move and try everything.

Ready to Register?

Click the link to create an account and reserve your child’s place.  

For more information on program details and pricing, or to share with friends and family, please visit our website. 

Rosebank Rocks at the Barker College Battle of the Bands



Two of Rosebank’s bands, Heart of the Iris and Electric Roses, proudly represented our school at the recent Barker College Battle of the Bands. Both groups delivered incredible performances of My Hero by the Foo Fighters and Higher Ground by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, showcasing musical talent of the highest standard.

Although we did not take home any prizes, the experience was an unforgettable one for our students. Performing in front of a big crowd gave them the chance to shine on stage, connect with fellow musicians, and celebrate their passion for music.

Congratulations to all our performers on their hard work, energy and creativity - it was a fantastic day of music and school spirit!

Join us at our upcoming College Drama Production of Girl Asleep

Click the poster or use the QR code to book your tickets.

Year 10 Work Experience – What You Need to Know

As our Year 10 students prepare to begin their work experience in Week 2 of Term 4, many will feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Being well prepared helps students make the most of this valuable opportunity and your support plays a big part in that.

Before Work Experience:

• Encourage your child to research their workplace: what the business does, how it operates, and what sets it apart. Their website or social media are great places to start.
• Help them organise the practical details: location, arrival time on Day 1, daily working hours and lunch routines.
• Discuss what’s appropriate to wear, when unsure, suggest they contact their work experience host. 
• Make sure they know who they will report to once they arrive.

During Work Experience:

• Students will have a supervisor who will introduce them to staff, show them around, and explain health and safety procedures.
• Set learning goals ahead of time, skills to develop, tasks they hope to try and share them with their supervisor.
• Remind your child to be professional: arrive on time; introduce themselves; listen carefully; take notes; follow instructions; ask questions if anything is unclear.
• If there is downtime, offering help demonstrates initiative.
• Keeping a daily journal of tasks, learning and challenges is very useful for school reports, reflections, and future references or CVs.

Benefits of Work Experience in Year 10:

Work experience offers a range of benefits for students, schools, parents and the wider community. Some key benefits for students include:

• Understanding real-world workplaces and employer expectations. Being in a workplace helps students see what skills and behaviours are valued.
• Exploring career options. It gives students a chance to try out different fields of work, helping them make better informed decisions about their future study or job paths.
• Building confidence, maturity, independence and self-reliance. Completing tasks, meeting workplace expectations and taking responsibility grow these personal skills. 
• Developing transferable employability skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, time management and professional behaviour.
• Motivation for further study or training. Understanding how school subjects connect to real work can spark greater interest in learning.
• Better chances for casual or part-time work and stronger applications (for jobs or further courses) once students have shown they have already had workplace exposure.

Students are encouraged, if they experience any issues or have concerns during their work experience, to contact Mr Ha (Assistant Coordinator: Pathways & Partnerships) or Mrs Ivanac (Pathways & Partnerships Assistant) on 9713 3110.

School Holiday Workshops  - Explore, Create and Discover 

A range of exciting, hands-on workshops are available this October for students eager to build new skills, explore future career pathways and unleash their creativity.

Opportunities include:

• Macquarie University Teen Business Builders Camp (Years 9–11)
• JMC Academy Workshops in Game Design, Animation, Illustration, Screen Acting, Design Portfolios and Entertainment Business (Years 10–12)
• Australian Institute of Music sessions on Songwriting and Performance (Years 9–12)
• SAE University College Creative Workshops (Year 10 and up)
• National Fashion College Styling Workshop (Ages 16+)
• ‘Out There’ Sailing Program for young adventurers aged 12–17
• Architecture Club at the Sydney Opera House – Regenerate with Nature

See below to explore all the details and registration links.

Macquarie University Teen Business Builders Camp for Year 9-11 Students                       
Date: October 1 to October 3, 2025                                                                                                     
Find out more and register

JMC Academy Game Design Workshop using Unreal Engine for Year 10-12 Students        
Date: October 3, 2025                                                                                                                 
Find out more and register

JMC Academy 3D Animation Workshop in Autodesk Maya for Year 10-12 Students                      
Date: October 3, 2025                                                                                                                  
Find out more and register

JMC Academy Illustration-Focused Animation Workshop for Year 10-12 Students              
Date: October 3, 2025                                                                                                                   
Find out more and register

Australian Institute of Music Holiday Workshop for Year 9-12 Students – The Songwriter’s Toolkit, Sydney                    
Date: October 3, 2025                                                                                                                       
Find out more and register

Australian Institute of Music Holiday Workshop for Year 9-12 Students – Mastering Performance, Sydney                     
Date: October 3, 2025                                                                                                                             
Find out more and register

JMC Academy Screen Acting Workshop for Year 11 & 12 Students
Date: October 4, 2025 
Find out more and register

School Holiday ‘Out There’ Sailing Program for Young People Aged 12-17                          
Date: October 7 to October 10, 2025                                                                                                   
Find out more and register

JMC Academy Design Portfolio Workshop for Year 10-12 Students                                   
Date: October 11, 2025                                                                                                                    
Find out more and register

JMC Academy Entertainment Business Management Workshop for Year 10-12 Students                                 
Date: October 11, 2025                                                                                                                   
Find out more and register

SAE University College Create for a Day – Creative Workshops for Students in Year 10 and Up                                          
Date: October 11, 2025                                                                                                                       
Find out more and register

National Fashion College Styling Workshop for Ages 16+                                                          
Date: October 11, 2025                                                                                                                    
Find out more and register

Architecture Club at Sydney Opera House – Regenerate with Nature                                       
Date: October 18, 2025                                                                                                                       
Find out more and register