Our Opening Mass gave us an opportunity to reflect on the Gospel story of Martha and Mary, where Jesus clearly values the contemplative over the busy. Fifteen hundred years ago, St Benedict wrote about the balance of work, simplicity, prayer, and psychological development. Today, Joan Chittister, a renowned Benedictine Sister and spiritual leader, reminds us of the importance of awareness. Recently I challenged our students to reflect on what all this means to us as a Benedictine community.
In accordance with Benedictine Rule, Rosebank strives to build a healthy, disciplined community that values work, prayer, the community, the individual, the extravert and the introvert, the Martha and the Mary. In many respects, our society may think we are much more sophisticated than St Benedictâs time, or indeed Martha and Mary. Still, despite our evolved intelligence, our innovations have not helped us with the struggles of being mindful. We battle with spiralling and intrusive thoughts and negative self-talk. This continues to be a human struggle; Jesus called it out, as did St Benedict.
Perhaps, we are no more special than those who rubbed shoulders with Jesus or who inhabited the monasteries of St Benedict. The struggles, distractions, and temptations we have today may come under different names, largely under the banner of social media pressures, but what hasnât changed is our intrinsic desire to connect with something bigger than ourselves.
There is real wisdom in modeling a community around the Benedictine Rule. St Benedictâs communities emphasised the small responsibilities that make a community. Sometimes life is less about the grand gestures and the huge achievements and more about small continuous gestures. The small kindness, the knowledge that your actions make a difference in a community, the pause, allowing others to shine, finding peace among and within ourselves, and offering service. It's less about not looking for the big miracle of God but seeing God in the small things every day. It's about truly seeing and truly listening to what's around you. It's about being grateful and saying thank you to others or in prayer. I donât think Jesus meant we need to be Martha or Mary. We need to have both. There has to be a time for work and discipline, but there also has to be a time of prayer, stillness and reflection.
This year, we have inserted a five minute prayer and reflection time in the centre of our day to pause and reflect. It is a time for us to be still; still in our work. It's an opportunity to reflect, to connect with God. Our hope is that the Rosebank community will find ways to stop, listen, be aware and contemplate what's really important, give thanks, and make a difference; in fact, make many small differences every day.
Real listening is a rare skill, and we need to practice it. St Benedict's wisdom still applies today.
Lastly, on Wednesday, 15 February, I, along with the PACE Captains, PACE staff members, and two of our Year 7 students, attended the Sydney Catholic Schools Sports 2023 Opening Ceremony and 2022 Awards Presentations. I'm delighted to announce that Annalisa Di Bella was presented with a Staff Recognition Award for her dedicated and professional service to Representative Sport at Rosebank. Congratulations, Annalisa, on this well-deserved prestigious Award!
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Ms Iris Nastasi
Principal
From the Assistant Principal
The past two weeks have certainly seen our whole community in action.
Having experienced several years where we were not able to host our community for the annual Parent Welcome and Information Evening, it was with much excitement and celebration that we welcomed over 1100 parents through the gates last Friday. We are mindful of the busy lives which parents lead and we thank you all for making the time to attend.
There was a staggering amount of information and conversation shared and I thank all involved, including our staff, students and P&F for their contribution to the success of the evening. If this is a sign of the interest, support and generosity we can expect of our parents in 2023, it is going to be a truly remarkable year. The PowerPoint information shared on the evening is now available on the Parent Portal.
This morning I spent some time talking to our Year 7 students as they waited expectantly to depart on their three-day camp. As expected, there was a mix of excitement, nerves and a little apprehension in the air â and that was just the staff! A jostling tangle of overnight bags and oversized pillows bumped and thumped the throng of Year 7 bodies onto the bus and they were gone â off on their first high school adventure. We look forward to welcoming them back on Wednesday afternoon and hope that our Year 7 parents will sleep soundly for these two nights, knowing they are in good hands.
Tomorrow is Shrove Tuesday and we ask that you encourage your child to use $5 of their own money to contribute to the Caritas fundraiser we will be running at the College before school. In return for this donation, we are able to enjoy a delicious âpancake and toppingsâ breakfast! Itâs the one time in the year when we all turn a blind eye to a not-so-nutritious start to the school day. We thank you in advance for encouraging your children to support this fundraising initiative before we begin our 40-day Lenten journey on Ash Wednesday.
Preparations for the College musical âCharlie and the Chocolate Factoryâ are full steam ahead, with our talented troupe returning from the Musical Camp exuding infectious âOompa Loompaâ energy and enthusiasm. If you havenât yet purchased tickets, please show your support, get behind the students and join us at any of the four shows coming up next month.
As we enjoy an abundance of joy filled activities, we remember to keep in our prayers those less fortunate, especially the victims of the devasting earthquakes which have affected Turkey and Syria. We are reminded each day of how much we have to be grateful for and to use the gifts and opportunities we are given, to not only be our best selves, but to support those around us who may need a little extra help along the way.
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Mr Paul Hardwick
Assistant Principal
đ· Musical Camp
Our âCharlie and the Chocolate Factoryâ Musical Camp was a huge success. From amazing rehearsals, competitive trivia nights and some Happy Birthdays to our amazing cast, we could not have asked for a better experience. Our talented leads, dancers, orchestra and ensemble are working tirelessly to produce the most outstanding production and itâs definitely coming together!
This camp, as well as the entire production, would not be possible without our fantastic teachers who are each using their talents to make this production even better. We are encouraging all students, teachers and parents to come and watch the show, from 16-18 March, to see the dedicated efforts of Rosebank College and how our amazing community can bring to life the story of little Charlie Bucket. The show is magical and exciting and we can't wait for you to see it!
Ruby Wilson
Year 12, Student Producer
Mindfulness, meditation and me
In what could be described as one of the most significant structural and cultural changes at Rosebank, the College made the decision late last year to change recess and lunch times to two thirty minute blocks and to also include a five minute mindfulness spot.
In Chapter 43 of The Rule we read these words from Benedict:
On hearing the signal for the time of the Divine Office, let everyone immediately set down whatever they have in hand and hasten there ... Indeed let nothing be preferred to the Word of God.
Commenting on this passage, Joan Chittister writes:
Benedictine spirituality does not ask for great feats of physical asceticism, but it does require commitment to community and a sincere seeking of God through prayer. Tardiness is not to be tolerated. Indolence is not to be overlooked. Halfheartedness will not be condoned ⊠Nothing in life qualifies as an exchange for the Word of God, not good work, not a job almost finished, not an interesting conversation âŠ
Rosebankâs five minutes of prayerful mindfulness opens with the Angelus, inviting us to ponder the mystery of God made human in Jesus Christ, and is followed by the whole school sitting in silence and allowing the peace of Christ to permeate heart, mind, soul and body. Towards the end of 2022, a pastoral survey for students showed that the most significant issues for many of our young people related to mental health.
Responding to this very clear issue, the College decided to set aside these five minutes to give the whole community a space to simply be still and rest in the quiet of Godâs love. Every classroom has a poster with several reflection questions that can be used to help focus if need be. Alternatively students and staff are encouraged to do whatever they need to in order to remain still and silent. I am reminded of the advice Teresa of Jesus gave her nuns in 16th century Spain - if looking at the crucifix or the statue of Our Lady helps you pray - do it; if it doesnât - donât do it; if reading the scriptures helps - do it until you feel ready to put the Bible down; but do it all asking God to open your heart and ears.
It will take time for the practice to become part of the daily life of the College, but the response in the last two weeks from students and many staff is an appreciation for the stillness and quiet. Benedict well understood the need for stillness and silence at different moments of the day. So let the words of the Psalmist ring gently for us: Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46.10)
On Wednesday, 15 February the College welcomed several of our local priests who minister to us throughout the year. This was the first time we had met in three years because of COVID. We welcomed long-time friends of the College, Fathers Michael McLean, PP St Markâs Drummoyne and Paul Crowley, PP St Maryâs Concord, and more recent friends, Fathers John Ngyuen, a Capuchin Franciscan from St Fiacreâs Leichhardt, Sebastian Savarimutha and Richard Ddumba, PP and AP All Hallows Five Dock and Gerard Woo Ling, PP St Patrickâs Summer Hill. It was a wonderful affirmation of the commitment that our local priests give to our community at Rosebank and the great value the College places on building and maintaining strong links with the parishes and religious communities. This reciprocal relationship reminds us that Rosebank is part of the wider Catholic family and our work at school supports the ministry of our local parishes. I also wish to acknowledge the ministry of our parish priests who were unable to join us on the day - Fathers Tom Stevens, PP St Patrickâs Mortlake, Henry Micek, PP Holy Innocents Croydon and Phil Zadro, PP St Joan of Arc Haberfield.
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Dr Paul OâShea
Dean of Ministry
From the Dean of Learning
NAPLAN
Students in Years 7 and Year 9 will be participating in NAPLAN according to the schedule below. Further details about the NAPLAN assessment program will be sent to parents and carers with students in these year groups in early March.
Year 7 15 March: Writing 16 March: Reading 20 March: Language Conventions 21 March: Numeracy
Year 9 15 March: Writing 20 March: Reading 21 March: Language Conventions 22 March: Numeracy
Subject Changes (Year 11)
Students wishing to change courses in Year 11 have until Friday, 24 February to submit their application to Mr Smith (Assistant Dean of Learning - Senior School).
HSC 2022
The College had the pleasure of inviting members of the Class of 2022 back to Rosebank during our Benedictine Academy program. Students in Year 11 and Year 12 participated in a Q&A session with our recent graduates with an aim of supporting our Stage 6 students. We thank Charlise Gardner, Zachary Hua, Caitlan La, Haeohreum Kim and Emilia Venuto for their time.
Additionally, on 10 February the College had the pleasure of hearing from our College Dux for 2022 Haeohreum Kim at our Opening Mass. A transcript of his speech is provided below.
Good morning Ms Nastasi, friends, peers, family and distinguished guests. I'm Haeohreum, and I have been named Dux of 2022. This title brings misconceptions and preconceived notions of who I am - but I am quite different from previous Duxes.
Before I begin however, Iâd like to thank a few of my friends and loved ones notably, Lucas, Brooke, Emma, Dilara, and Ale - my wonderful and talented teachers, Ms Davis, Ms Hill, Mr Crowfield, Ms Galeb, Mr Moreira, Ms Mariglis, Mr El-Hachem and Mr Makram, as well the entire music faculty - thank you.
The underdog story spans centuries and societies - as a representation of the majority who goes disregarded and underappreciated. I hope that my story can be a projection for the majority of you - those who have gone unappreciated for their whole school life. I have never received any first in class awards in years gone past - and most of my academic accolades were tied to music and the arts.
Before Year 11, I couldnât have even dreamed of becoming the Dux. I spent all my days playing games and hanging out with friends after school. I definitely had some natural academics, because I did well in my grades; but again, I was no one of note.
At the start of Year 11, I made a mental goal of becoming the Dux. I immediately became obsessed with this goal, perhaps on an unhealthy scale, to achieve it. I still remember the dismissive remarks and comments of many people who surrounded me at that time - and I thank them to this day for the fuel and ignition of my dreams and future aspirations.
Drive; what does drive mean? Motivation is a cyclical product which only serves to put you one step forward, and two steps back - but drive? Drive is an unstoppable motor which turns and turns until the fuel of your dream is fulfilled. How can we differentiate drive and motivation? Motivation is the sudden bursts of inspiration and energy. Like when you're awake at 3am, and you suddenly want to rearrange your entire room. Or when you suddenly want to study maths and become a genius. It will all come crumbling and crashing down when you realise that you have overstepped your boundaries and comfort zone - and you will return to your shell of safety. But drive - drive is something all of us can find. Itâs an intrinsic reason for survival and working. Our parents' drive to work, for example, could be to support the children that they dearly love. The more reasons you have, the bigger the safety net. My drive? To be successful, and repay the immense support my parents and brother afforded me during my life. To become the best version of myself I could be, one step a time. Those visions drove me to stand on this lectern today - two years after I set my goal.
I failed, and failed countless times in my journey here today. I messed up exams, I ranked poorer then I wanted to be, I lost friendships, and so much more. Failing is a natural step to success. And itâs not as simple as the self-help guruâs make it out to be. A magical door to wonderland simply does not exist after you fail. Rather, itâs the steps you take after failure which dictates the doors which open. It is so easy to give up after you fail. But doors will always open for you if you push them open.
This leads me to the decisions you make. Look around to the people you surround yourself with at recess and lunch. Are you pursuing the âhigh school experienceâ? High school is a short period of time in a life which spans decades - you shouldnât sacrifice your methods of success in order to just be popular. The people you surround yourself with dictate who you become - and itâs a decision which especially Year 7âs should think about. Set yourself up for success by considering the people who surround you.
Most importantly is the topic of mental health. Personally, I suffered from poor mental health through high school, and it often made it hard for me to be optimistic, and to be driven to achieve my goals. I had to put more effort into my goals than the average person. There are people here who are silently struggling, and especially for the new Year 12âs; this year will be a year which greatly tests your mental resilience. If you need help, reach out - because even though the House Coordinators may often seem like scary, authoritative figures - all of them are inviting, warm teachers when you are in need.
Always remember your drive and reason. When it all comes crashing down onto you, your reasons will shine like a beacon of light through the pitch darkness that is disappointment. Always remember that you are human - and that we will make mistakes for as long as we are human.
Have a reason to reach your goals - whether they are small or big, academic or artistic. All of you have potential, no one has reached it - so donât limit yourself with pointless thoughts and with a suffocating environment. And always remember that while the people around you are temporary; that success is eternal.
Thank you,
Haeohrum Kim Class of 2022 College Dux
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Mr Greg Georgiou
Dean of Learning
đ· TAS News
Year 7 students took part in their first design challenge: to try and make ten marbles float on water with only one piece of paper and 10cm of tape.
Year 11 Food Technology students have been learning about staples throughout the world. They had an opportunity to create bread based staples.
Mrs Melissa Gal
TAS Coordinator
Diverse Learning News
The InspirED Booklet of opportunities was published and distributed via email last week. For those who received it, please take time to sit down with your child and choose a selection of opportunities which they are interested in before the link to the Google Form closes on 3 March. The Google Form must be accessed via a College laptop.
This weekâs newsletter article consists of student reflections on two of a number the science opportunities available through the InspirED Program and the Science Faculty. These two experiences, the National Youth Science Forum and the Santos Science Experience, are for students in Year 12, and Years 9 and 10 respectively.
National Youth Science Forum
During the summer holidays, Hugo Rochlitz, Ethan Shi, Chris Serena, Mason Cuthbert and I participated in the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF). The NYSF is a two-week program, offered in January to Year 12 students passionate about STEM. Over the course of the program students interact online and in person, with people who work in the many fields of STEM. The NYSF program is a very prestigious event with only 450 attendees across all of Australia thus, many companies and universities across Australia are very interested in NYSF alumni.
During the online portion of the event, many seminars were held by the sponsors of this year's event. They talked about what their company or organisation does, what working for them actually looks like and why we should seek employment there. These seminars were held by companies or organisations like Lockheed Martin Australia, the Australian Space Agency, the CSIRO, CSL Global Biotech, the Defence Science Technology Group, GHD Foundation, Organon, Quantum Brilliance and ResMed. Not all seminars were run by said companies, there were also keynote presentations and Q&A sessions from people like Adam Spencer, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, researchers from the Large Hadron Collider (CERN) and people who work on the RV Investigator a Marine National Facility owned by the CSIRO, and who complete the majority of Australia's marine research. Finally, there were presentations from most large Australian universities explaining their course offerings and the value they place on students who attend NYSF.
The in-person portion of the event was extremely enjoyable and very interesting with tours of many university and industry facilities. It was also an opportunity to make connections with people who work in STEM and peers interested and passionate about STEM who will likely follow a similar career to us. Some of the tours were of the universities nearby our Sydney Hub, UNSW, UTS and Macquarie University, where we checked out the facilities and had the opportunity use some of their equipment. We also had the chance to interact with professors and students working in various areas of STEM research to explore what studying at the local universities could entail. Tours of science facilities in Sydney took us to places like ANSTO, CSIRO, Quantum Brilliance, Nanosonics, AIE, 3M Innovations and Envirolab all of which either work on advanced science research or have STEM at the core of their business.
NYSF was an amazing experience that I vehemently recommend to all those interested in a career in any aspect of STEM. The experience not only looks very good on university applications but also allows you to make connections with potential employers and mentors. Seeing all the science facilities and what a job in STEM actually looks like helps those who are interested in science as a whole, to narrow down what they want their future career to look like. If you are interested at all make sure to apply. You can talk to any of us or see Ms Galeb in the Science block or Ms McArthur in Diverse Learning to find out more.
Alec Townsend Year 12
Santos Science Experience
For three days during the January holidays, Harley Hatzimihail, Ben Gilligan, Thomas Jansen, Xavier Woods and Christian Alouan from Years 9 and 10 attended a science-based learning experience at the University of Sydney. On the first day the participants were split into six groups of eight or nine with like-minded students from different schools across New South Wales. These groups competed against one another throughout the experience to solve a criminal investigation as accurately as possible. Various science-based disciplines such as psychology, physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics were used in the same way as they would be in a real investigation, to uncover the facts behind the crime and triumph over the other groups by presenting the best solution to the crime on the final day.
After everyone was split into teams, we explored different types of evidence from different elements in light signatures to soundwave resonant frequency. From this activity we learnt what it is like to work in the field of physics.
Additionally, we used mathematics to explore the probability of false positives in disease testing and tracked data packets, both to help solve the mystery.
On day two, we were introduced to the universityâs biology lab, where we saw how DNA is tested in a real forensic investigation. We took cell samples and placed them in a centrifuge to separate the DNA strands. We used micro pipettes to pick up DNA and used an electrophoresis machine to sort and identify different types of DNA. This allowed us to compare the DNA found at the crime scene to the DNA of the suspects.
Personally, I think the DNA work was one of the best parts of the whole experience. The investigation was in-depth and immersive, and it was great to see what university lab work is truly like. In chemical tests we burnt fibres and tested the chemical compounds of different drugs and medicines. Using forensic testing we identified fingerprints. On the final day we had a scavenger hunt to find more clues. At the end of the day each team presented their findings and who they thought had committed the crime.
Most importantly are the values we took from the SANTOS Science Program. This experience has really helped us realise what science looks like at a more complex real-world level than what we see at school. It is valuable to understand this as we consider our future options. From day one in Physics and Maths to day three with our presentations, each of us left with a new sense of analytical thinking and an appreciation for the scientific knowledge that we all accumulated as a team, while having an enjoyable time at Sydney University.
Christian Alouan, Ben Gilligan, Thomas Jansen (Year 10) and Harley Hatzimihail (Year 11)
The Santos Science Experience is offered at various universities across Australia in different school holiday periods. Students can apply to attend any of these opportunities and can also apply for sponsorship from a local rotary club to help with the costs involved. Applications to some of these experiences are already open and others will be added throughout the year. More information can be found at https://www.scienceexperience.com.au/
For help with applying or securing financial support from a rotary club speak to Ms Galeb in the Science block or Ms McArthur in Diverse Learning.
For more information about the above opportunities, please email cmcarthur@rosebank.nsw.edu.au
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Ms Cheryl McArthur
Gifted Education Teacher
PACE News
It was wonderful to have the whole College back at the annual Swimming Carnival after a three year COVID induced absence. School spirit at Rosebank is alive and well with the majority of students getting in and having a âgoâ whether it be in a championship event or the novelty participation events. Congratulations to Adamson House and all of our Age Champions; Christian Alouan, Fergus Beresford-Harvey, Lily Borozan, Mary Caitlin Plan, Rebecca Donnelly, Isabel El-Azzi, Nicholas Fleming, Charlotte Gan, Ellouise Hall, Tyson Hickey, Corey Ioannou and Jacob Wong.
The Rosebank Representative Swimming Team has been selected and we look forward to competing at the Sydney Catholic School Conference 2 Championships on 7 March.
After some Noahâs Ark like rain last Thursday it was great to see the sun out again this past week which allowed all PACE activities to go ahead. Years 11 and 12 experienced their first week of the re-imagined Benedictine Academy and by all accounts the changes have been warmly received. Years 7 and 8 continued with their House sport activities and Years 9 and 10 went out for their second week of elective sport.
Representative Sport is back in full swing and we look forward to passing on results as they filter through. Stay tuned for registration for winter sports including Football, Netball and Rugby League. Please do not register your interest if you cannot attend training. The College expects that all representatives make a sustained and serious commitment to the program once selected. Please see the following training days reminder (3:30pm-5pm):
Monday â Years 7 and 8 Tuesday â Years 9 and 10 Wednesday - Years 11 and 12
Mr Stuart Hanrahan Dean of Physical and Cultural Engagement
Club Sport Update
The Rosebank Baseball Teams are on a roll to the finals!
Mr Jason Amos PACE Administrator and Club Sports Coordinator
Sydney Catholic Schools Sport Trials
Students have the opportunity to represent Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) in a number of sports throughout the year. These are not Rosebank representative teams, however are part of the NSW Catholic Schools Sport pathway. If selected into this team, students will represent SCS at the NSWCCC Championships/Trials and be eligible for selection into the NSWCCC team. Students must play the sport at a representative/association level outside of school in order to nominate. Completing this form does not guarantee attendance at the trials. Once the expression of interest form is complete, the College will then determine if the student is eligible to trial in conjunction with SCS discretion.
Those who are interested are encouraged to complete the expression of interest form before the relevant closing date. No late entries can be accepted. Expression of Interest Form.
SCS Boys Opens 19s Football (Soccer) - closes Monday, 27 February
SCS Girls Opens 18s Football (Soccer) - closes Monday, 27 February
SCS Boys AFL (Year 8-10) - closes Monday, 6 March
SCS Girls 15 years Netball - closes Thursday, 9 March
SCS Girls Opens Netball - closes Thursday, 9 March
SCS Girls 16 years Rugby League - closes Tuesday, 20 June
NSWCCC Sport Trials
NSW Combined Catholic Colleges (NSWCCC) teams are part of the elite sports pathway, and is the state level representative team for Catholic school students in NSW. These are not Rosebank representative teams, however are part of the School Sport Australia Sport pathway. If selected into this team, students will represent the NSWCCC team at NSW All Schools competitions. Students must play the sport at a representative or state level outside of school in order to nominate. Those who are interested in nominating to trial or want more information about a sport/s please:
Check the NSWCCC website to ensure you meet the criteria for the sport
Ms Annalisa Di Bella PACE Coordinator - Representative Activities
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SRSC News
Library Lovers' Day
Rosebank students flocked to the SRSC to celebrate Library Lovers' Day! Anyone who borrowed a book on Library Lovers' Day received a special bookmark and some heart-shaped lollies. Students were also invited to write love notes to the SRSC, telling us what they love about our library. Here's a selection:
I love the SRSC because: - "it is a peaceful, quiet place" - "it has an amazing range of books" - "it's organised" - "there are interesting books and nice staff" - "it is a place where I can imagine anything" - âit feels like homeâ
On behalf of all the SRSC staff, thank you students! You have warmed the cockles of our hearts. It was a delight to see everyone getting in the spirit and selecting some wonderful books to read.
Book Character Day
Most of Year 7 have now participated in SRSC orientation sessions with their ConnectED classes. It has been fantastic to see so many of you using the library and borrowing books. We are really impressed your enthusiasm for our SRSC and your wonderful behaviour. NOW FOR THE REALLY FUN PART!
Rosebank's annual Book Character Day will take place on Friday, 17 March. Students from Year 7 and ALL STAFF are required to dress as their favourite book character to celebrate the joy of reading and "Literacy and Numeracy Week". More details will be communicated very soon but in the meantime, get creative! Have a think about who you would like to dress as. You don't need to buy anything. You can use items from around the house for your costume. A hat, a tie, a funny wig, a moustache but get in to the spirit of your character because prizes and House points will be awarded!
Ms Monika Gyi and Mrs Leanne Plesa
SRSC Staff
Young Leaders Afternoon Tea
On 16 February the Rosebank College Captains and Vice Captains; Lorena, Gabriel, Jonas and I all had the honour to be invited to the St Patrickâs College, Strathfield, Young Leaders Afternoon Tea. This was a great opportunity for us all as to gather insight into how leadership at other schools work, hear of a range of initiatives, create connections on a community and local level and learn more about how we can represent the theme of justice and solidarity in our school communities.
We were first split into groups to have the chance to meet new people and participated in a few icebreakers to get to know each other. We then listened to guest speaker Dave Adler, CEO of the Australian company Vestone Capital. Mr Adler expressed the importance of managing time and having a work life balance and explained the difficulties of raising a family on top of maintaining a business but that it also kept him grounded and kept goals in mind with his work. When it came to delegating work, he demonstrated that trust was very important amongst colleagues and that challenging them and letting them often take charge of their own tasks was essential instead of controlling a whole project yourself.
After Mr Adlerâs talk, we had a short break to mingle, accompanied by food and snacks. This was a great opportunity to further get to know other schools from around Sydney - we introduced ourselves and discussed our roles within our own school. Along with St Patâs College, Santa Sabina, Domremy, Strathfield Girls, Waverley College, Holy Cross and more were represented. We again returned to our groups and had discussions about our initiatives, especially around justice and solidarity and how leadership is structured at each school. It was extremely prevalent to engage in such discussions and see the similar and different projects occurring at each school including the Winter Sleepout, Vinnies Food Night Patrols, First Nations immersions and initiatives to raise money for those facing devastation in their homelands.
We then participated in group activities of âwould you ratherâ - agreeing or disagreeing to present statements which created open discussions around everyoneâs opinions. This was extremely amusing to participate in and interesting when listening to other peopleâs opinions on conflicting statements.
Overall, the event was highly enjoyable and interesting to learn more about justice and solidarity in the workplace and as a core concept in initiatives. The open discussions helped to create insight in how other schools operate and created relationships to other schools of the Sydney community. This was a great way to see how we could integrate different projects from other schools and hearing from Dave Adler helped expand upon our leadership skills. We are very thankful for St Patâs for hosting this event for us and hope we can use their event as a guideline for our own Leadership Afternoon Tea held at Rosebank.
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Erika Okubo-Fleming
Rosebank College Vice Captain (Learning)
Alumni Excellence Award
Alumni Excellence Award recipients are game-changers and trailblazers, pioneers in their field and fearless in their endeavours. They are inspirational and their impact is creating a brighter future for all. Past winners include humanitarians, athletes, entrepreneurs, and more.
Nominations can be made by staff, students, alumni and any member of the public, for both professional and personal alumni achievements. Simply click here to nominate.
