Volume 15 2025

Welcome back to all members of the Rosebank community as we begin Term 4.

With the first week of HSC exams already behind us, we continue to hold our graduates and their families in our thoughts and prayers as they navigate the final chapter of their high school journey.

Meanwhile, the rest of the student body has been actively engaged in a variety of enriching experiences. 

Last week, our Year 7 and 8 students participated in the Festival of Creative Spirit (FoCS), a dynamic initiative designed to ignite curiosity and passion beyond the classroom. Students explored academic and creative projects, some of which included exciting excursions around Sydney, They also benefited from workshops led by guest presenters and industry specialists.

Year 9 students immersed themselves in Discovery Week, a program aimed at building confidence and skills in new environments. Highlights included the much-anticipated Year 9 Camp in Colo, the Duke of Edinburgh experience and the Figtree Program. As our Year 7 students learnt early on in the year, stepping out of comfort zones with the support of College and camp staff, often leads to meaningful growth, friendships forged and memorable achievements.  

Our Year 10 students entered the workforce through their work placement program in Week 2. This valuable experience helps our students develop professional skills, understand workplace dynamics and represent Rosebank proudly within the local community. They were confident and conducted themselves with maturity and grace.

Also taking place last week was the annual Senior Retreat for Year 11 students. This significant event offers a chance for students to pause, reflect and connect more deeply with self, others and faith, away from the usual demands of school and home life.

It was an extremely busy yet fulfilling week of learning, discovery and personal growth.

As some families are no doubt already planning holidays for next year, please make sure you update your diaries with the 2026 term dates that Ms Jennifer Jackson has included in the Assistant Principal’s article.

Parents are reminded that the College cannot approve an extended period of leave for families to take a holiday over school term time.  The NSW Educational Standards Authority (NESA) is very clear on what can be classified as ‘justified leave’, which includes participation in elite sports teams e.g, representing Australia at an international tournament/event and employment in the entertainment industry. Guidelines for Exemption from Attendance can be found on the Parent Portal.

Using AI to Prepare for Exams

Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape the world around us. While AI presents challenges around ethics, creativity and authenticity, it also opens exciting opportunities for learning. As educators, we are tasked with preparing students for a future in which AI will be an integral part of their professional and personal lives.

At Rosebank, we are exploring ways to help students use AI thoughtfully to support and enhance their learning, rather than replace it. During our recent Staff Development Day, staff watched a video created by students that showcased how they are already using AI tools to prepare for their exams. Students quoted that they were currently using a variety of AI platforms to clarify difficult concepts, generate practice questions and revision plans. Their insights were both impressive and encouraging, highlighting a growing sense of responsibility and curiosity in how students engage with new technologies.

One of the most powerful ways students can use AI safely is as a personal tutor, testing their understanding, clarifying misconceptions and deepening their knowledge as they prepare for their exams.
 
Below is a simple AI Prompt Guide that students can use safely and effectively to support their study.

Before you begin:

• Do not include personal information (like your name, school, or class)
• Be specific about the topic or concept you want to revise
• Treat the AI as a learning tool — always verify information with your notes and teachers

Prompt to Copy and Use:
“You are my study tutor. I am revising for my upcoming exams in [subject]. Please help me review the topic of [insert topic or concept, e.g. ‘biomes’]. Start by asking me three short questions to test what I know. Then, explain any answers I get wrong in simple terms, with examples. After that, ask me some harder questions to extend my understanding. Finally, summarise what I’ve learned and suggest what I should revise next.”

Remember: Never share personal details. Use AI as a guide. The teachers and notes remain the most important sources of truth for students.

HSC Conversation Hour - Key Insights and Resources

Thank you to everyone who attended the Year 12 HSC Information Evening on Tuesday, 14 October. It was a productive session and we were pleased to share valuable information to support parents and students through the final year of secondary education.

The event covered key topics such as:

• The assessment processes for Year 12 students
• Study management strategies and examination preparation resources
• Attendance expectations, as well as classroom learning and assessment requirements
• Detailed information about the HSC examinations
• The ATAR and NESA rules, including disability provisions
• Expectations around the effective use of the Scholastica Research and Study Centre (SRSC) and timed study periods

For those who would like to revisit the presentation, we have made the slides from the session and the video recording available for your reference. Please feel free to review these materials to stay informed and continue supporting your child in this important year.

Andrew Taw - History Challenge - 1st in Stage

Congratulations to Andrew Taw in Year 8 (Vaughan), who has achieved first place in New South Wales in the 2025 National History Challenge. His entry was judged the best in the state for the Year 8 category, an exceptional accomplishment that reflects both his passion for history and the depth of his research and analysis.

Andrew’s project focused on the development of voting rights in Australia, exploring how democratic participation has evolved over time. He presented his work through an engaging and interactive website, demonstrating creativity, strong historical inquiry skills and a thoughtful understanding of Australia’s civic history.

Andrew will be formally recognised at the NSW State Presentation Ceremony later in November, where his outstanding achievement will be celebrated alongside other state winners. A special congratulations also goes to Ms Sara Maffei (Italian and History Teacher) for her guidance and support throughout the process. 

Andrew’s website can be viewed here.

Dorian Kipriotis
Dean of Learning

Study Tips for the Week: Break It Down with the Pomodoro Technique

Struggling to stay focused during long study sessions? Try the Pomodoro Technique! Here’s how it works:

• Set a timer for 25 minutes and focus solely on one task (no distractions!)
• When the timer goes off, take a 5-minute break to rest and recharge
• After completing four Pomodoro cycles, take a longer 15–30 minute break

This technique helps maintain focus, reduces mental fatigue and makes studying feel more manageable. Give it a try this week and see how it works for you!


Stage 5 Examination Block

The Stage 5 Examination Block for Years 9 and 10 students will take place from Wednesday, 29 October to Friday, 7,November 7th. All students are expected to attend their scheduled exams on time and be fully prepared.

Important Exam Procedures:

• Students will assemble in class groups on Palm Court before each exam
• College uniform is required
• Mobile phones, smartwatches and non-approved electronics are not allowed in the exam rooms
• Only clear water bottles and transparent pencil cases are permitted
• Students must bring all required materials (e.g., pens, pencils, calculators)

If your child is unable to attend an exam due to illness or an unforeseen circumstance, an Illness/Misadventure Application found on the Student Portal, must be submitted with supporting documentation. Missed exams will be rescheduled and students will be notified via email.


Festival of Creative Spirit (FoCS)

FoCS week was once again a celebration of innovation, imagination and initiative at Rosebank. This annual event provides students with a unique opportunity to engage in problem-based and project-based learning, exploring their passions through creative and practical pursuits.



From boutique business stalls showcasing student entrepreneurship to Broadway-style performances, STEM design projects and fitness and wellbeing challenges, the diversity of work on display reflected the depth of student curiosity and talent. Each project demonstrated critical thinking, collaboration and creativity - skills that extend far beyond the traditional curriculum.



Throughout the festival, students took ownership of their learning, developing new skills, confidence and an appreciation for authentic, hands-on experiences. The FoCS truly embodies Rosebank’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded learners who are ready to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

Kylie Carroll
Assistant Dean of Learning - Senior School

Matthew Couani
Assistant Dean of Learning - Middle School

Exploring the Future with Problem Solvers

Congratulations to Sophie Wan (Year 9 - Adamson) who represented Rosebank at the Future Problem Solvers National Finals. Sophie joined peers from across Australia to imagine innovative solutions to future global challenges. Read on to discover how collaboration, creativity and critical thinking led to an inspiring win and an unforgettable learning experience.  

In late October, I had an amazing opportunity to attend the Future Problem Solvers National Finals held at Knox Grammar, Wahroonga. I was there to compete in the Scenario Writing Competition. Scenario Writing is about creatively looking at a future scenario twenty years into the future and expressing the challenges and potential solutions in a creative format.

At the competition, I was placed into a random group with three other students from Newcastle Grammar, Ravenswood School for Girls and Caulfield Grammar in Melbourne. The scenario we needed to respond to was to imagine a world where it was common practice to use nanotechnology in healthcare. Each team member wrote about one perspective - a paramedic treating people, a wealthy person who could afford the treatment, a poor person who could not afford it and a doctor.

I also took part in a Scenario Writing workshop, which was a really valuable experience. We had to take the lead on our own writing before coming together in groups to share ideas and give feedback.

The weekend culminated in the awards ceremony where it was such a surprise to win the category for the best overall team story. The highlight of the event was the amazing opportunity to collaborate with other peers from different schools, states and year groups. I would recommend participating in Future Problem Solvers for all students.

Why Communication Skills Are Essential for Students' Future Careers

This week, our Year 10 students took part in an exciting work experience program, gaining hands-on insight into a variety of industries. Rosebank is proud to have strong partnerships with numerous organisations that generously support this initiative. Feedback from our industry partners has highlighted one key takeaway for students: the importance of developing effective communication skills, a cornerstone for success in any future workplace.

Effective communication is universally recognised as one of the most vital skills students can develop to succeed in both academic and professional settings. Employers consistently highlight strong communication abilities as a top priority when hiring. Beyond merely conveying information, these skills encompass active listening, clear articulation and the capacity to collaborate effectively within teams.

Academic Success and Personal Growth

In educational environments, students with robust communication skills excel in expressing their ideas, participating in discussions and presenting their work confidently. This proficiency not only enhances academic performance but also fosters self-assurance and emotional intelligence. Engaging in activities like debates, group projects and presentations can significantly bolster these skills.

Career Readiness

As students transition into the workforce, the ability to communicate effectively becomes indispensable. Whether it is networking, interviewing or collaborating with colleagues, strong communication skills facilitate career advancement. Employers often consider these abilities as critical as technical expertise, emphasising their importance in professional settings.

Navigating the Digital Landscape

In today's digital age, communication extends beyond face-to-face interactions to include virtual platforms. Students adept at both in-person and online communication are better equipped to thrive in modern workplaces, where digital literacy is increasingly valued.

Practical Strategies for Skill Development

To cultivate strong communication skills, students can:

• Engage in public speaking: Participate in activities like drama clubs or student councils to practice verbal communication
• Join collaborative projects: Work on group assignments to enhance teamwork and interpersonal communication
• Seek feedback: Regularly ask for constructive criticism to identify areas for improvement
• Utilise technology: Leverage digital tools and platforms to practice and refine communication skills

By proactively developing these skills, students position themselves for success in their academic journeys and future careers.

Free Course: Effective Communication in the Workplace

Open University offers free courses, including Effective Communication in the Workplace, which equips students with essential skills for both school and future work. 

This course helps students understand how their words, body language and writing are perceived by others and how to use their communication skills effectively in a variety of situations. Students will explore topics such as speaking and listening clearly, writing with confidence, managing challenging conversations and even how communication may evolve in the future with remote work and virtual reality.

Each week, students will have the opportunity to reflect on their own communication skills and set goals for improvement, helping them feel confident expressing themselves now and in the future. Upon completing the course, students will receive a free statement of participation.

Click here to register or learn more.

Join us on Tuesday, 11 November, for our final parent engagement gathering for the year.

Discover smart strategies for balanced meals, study snacks and fueling for sport and study, as well as take home ideas to help your teen thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Tuesday, 11 November 2025
6:30pm – 8pm
Rosebank College
RSVP here