Volume 6 2026
4.5.2026
From The Principal
From The Assistant Principal
Mother's Day Raffle: 3 Prize Packs To Be Won!
A Big Thank You to Our Wonderful Parent Volunteers!
From The Dean Of Ministry
From The Dean And Assistant Deans Of Learning
Reflections From Rosebank's China Tour
PACE News
Year 9 & 10 Music Excursion To The Lion King
Get Your Tickets For Disney's Frozen Jr.
Win An Exclusive Frozen Jr. Prize Pack!
EnrichedED News
Pathways And Partnerships News
Gold For Rosebank Students In The Australian Dragon Boating Championships
You Are Invited To Our Next Parent Engagement Gathering (PEG)
Rosebank College Hosts Professional Learning Leaders
Staff Spotlight: Sebastian Lee
Rosebank Class of ’69 Reunion – Save the Date!
Rosebank Family Businesses
Helping Out Your Fellow Families
🔗Community Links
From The Principal
Thank you to our parents and friends who supported Open Day yesterday, whether through volunteering or simply by having your child involved on the day. While we are fortunate to have outstanding facilities, it is truly our people who make Rosebank shine. There is no prouder moment than seeing our staff, students and wider community come together with such enthusiasm and spirit. Thank you for being part of it. 
Recently, our College community gathered for a respectful and meaningful ANZAC Day Assembly, honouring all who have served our country. We had the privilege of hearing from Lieutenant Colonel Damien Hansen who gave a powerful perspective of what it means to serve. His reflection was a strong reminder of the values of service, leadership and dedication. I was particularly taken by his comparison of ANZAC Day to Christmas, because it is the day when he reconnects with those he considers family and the people who matter most in his life. 
The assembly was led by our Year 12 History students, supported by our talented Performing Arts students. I was incredibly proud of Army Cadet Maya Temelkov (Year 11). I found Maya's speech particularly inspirational in terms of delivery and content. She appealed to her peers that, “As young Australians, we have a responsibility to carry that spirit into the world we’re shaping. To build a society where rights are respected, but responsibilities are also recognised. To create communities where no one feels alone or forgotten. To take opportunities with both hands, not because they’re easy, but because they matter.” I commend her address (linked here) to you and is well worth a read. In the murkiness of our world today, I found her words incredibly refreshing.
On Saturday, 18 April, I had the privilege of attending the Five Dock ANZAC Commemorative Service at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway with our College Captains Arabella Bentick and William McNamara who gave up their last Saturday of the holidays to join in me in laying a wreath of remembrance on behalf of Rosebank.
Bringing further pride to us all are the nearly 40 students who entered the Five Dock RSL ANZAC Day Art competition. Our students Jasmine Taylor (Year 9), Saxon Rietdyk (Year 11) and Georgina Thoma (Year 9) received individual awards. Sophie O’Driscoll (Year 10) and Sienna Carrolo (Year 10) all received the President’s Award. Petros Calokerinos (Year 7) and Lexi Sawan (Year 7) received a Highly Commended commendation. As a result, Rosebank will receive a grant of $500.00 from the RSL to go towards our ST Scholastics Research (SRSC, Library). We are very grateful to the club for its ongoing support.
I leave you with another provocation from Maya “Don’t let the ANZAC spirit be something you only hear about once a year. Let it challenge you. Let it inspire you. Let it push you to be brave when it’s easier to stay silent, to be kind when it costs you something, to be determined when giving up seems simpler, and to be someone others can rely on."
Lest we forget.
Duke of Edinburgh Ceremony
On Thursday, 30 April I attended the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Level Achievers Awards at Government House where I was proud to witness our own Nathaniel Squires (Year 12) receive this prestigious accolade from Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC Governor of NSW. Her words reinforced the character required to attain this prestigious award.
“Be justifiably proud of your Award, because you’ve achieved what others just dream of and , hopefully, you have discovered there is more in you than you think.” - HRH The Duke of Edinburgh KG, KT, GCVO.
Ms Iris Nastasi
Principal
From The Assistant Principal
Open Day 2026
Thank you to all the families and visitors who joined us for our Open Day on Sunday. It was a pleasure to welcome so many members of our community to the College, including past, present and future students and families, to share a glimpse of just some of the vibrant learning, sporting, and cultural opportunities available to Rosebank students. The staff and students who looked after our guests on the day reflected our strong focus on holistic education, and our commitment to pastoral care and ministry, which guide, shape and support our wellbeing, character, and faith. The enthusiasm and engagement of the entire community made the day truly special. After talking to many parents and their young children through the day, I feel proud and confident that our visitors went home inspired by the warmth, diversity, and spirit of Rosebank.
A very special thank you to our parent volunteers who gave of their time and energy to help out in the Food Court and to everyone who dropped off something delicious for the Cake Stall or made a donation of food and beverage items. We are truly grateful. Without your support and generosity, these events would not be the tremendous success that they always are.
Mother’s Day Celebration
We now have the chance to share our thanks and gratitude in person, as we prepare to welcome our Rosebank mothers and significant women in the lives of our students, to our Mother’s Day Celebration on Friday, with breakfast from 7:15am, followed by Mass at 9am. In a particular way, this Mass will draw a connection to the approaching Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, recalling Mary’s appearance to three shepherd children in Fatima and her call to prayer, peace, and trust in God. As we gather, we give thanks for the gift of motherhood in all its forms and place our families under Mary’s loving care.
Student Leadership
This is an important term for the Year 11 cohort as we commence the 2026/2027 student leadership selection process. The Pastoral team and Year 12 student leaders from each leadership portfolio last week met with and engaged the Year 11 students in a ‘Leadership at Rosebank’ discussion. Students who meet the required criteria, will now have the opportunity to put themselves forward for a leadership role.
Students in ALL year groups are encouraged to take on leadership opportunities throughout their high school journey. Student leadership criteria at Rosebank include:
- Maintaining an excellent record of academic effort and attitude.
- Displaying outstanding behaviour, attendance and punctuality.
- An ongoing commitment to supporting and following school rules.
- Showing initiative.
- Attending and actively participating in College activities and major events.
- Demonstrating strong and confident communication skills.
- Finding ways to lead, inspire and work cooperatively with others.
- Being collaborative, communicative and mature when interacting with staff, students and members of the Rosebank community.
- Demonstrating courtesy and consideration in a team environment.
- Identifying and sharing personal strengths for the benefit of the community.
- Being reliable with an ability to self-motivate, self-organise and follow through on tasks.
- Engaging in active, positive and enthusiastic service to the Rosebank community.
- Demonstrating ongoing commitment to the vision of Rosebank.
Year 12 LPMs
A reminder that Year 12 LPMs will be held on site on Tuesday, 12 May with all parents and students in attendance.
Mr Paul Hardwick
Assistant Principal
Mother's Day Raffle: 3 Prize Packs To Be Won!
Enter by clicking the above image or by following this link.
Raffle to be drawn after our Mother’s Day Celebration on Friday, 8 May 2026
A Big Thank You to Our Wonderful Parent Volunteers!
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the fantastic group of parent volunteers who once again made our Open Day Food Court such a success. Through their time, energy, and generosity, they helped create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that reflected the very best of our community spirit.
Across the day, our dedicated team kept the crowds happy and well-fed, serving up a huge number of sausage sizzles, dishing out refreshing gelato, and keeping drinks flowing for our many visitors. The much-loved cake stall proved as popular as ever, selling out completely, while the Mother’s Day Raffle was another highlight, generating wonderful support.
An outstanding total of $9,818 in net profits was raised. These funds will contribute towards the development of a rooftop learning space atop the Erie Hall Building.
We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of our parent community. Your involvement continues to make a meaningful difference. Thank you for helping make Open Day such a memorable event.
Mrs Tina Carbone
Community Engagement Liaison
From The Dean Of Ministry
Fifth Week of Easter
In the Fifth Week of Easter, the Church draws us into the quiet depth of Jesus’ words in the Gospel of John, not words of triumph, but of reassurance. At a moment when the disciples are unsettled and uncertain, Jesus speaks gently: “Do not let your hearts be troubled” (John 14:1). Easter faith, then, is not the absence of uncertainty, but the presence of Christ within it.
At the centre of this week is one of the most profound declarations in all of Scripture, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Jesus does not point to a path, He is the path. He does not simply teach truth, He embodies it. He does not just promise life, He offers it, here and now. In a world that often searches for direction, clarity, and meaning, this Gospel reframes everything- the answer is not something to find, but someone to follow.
John’s Gospel during Easter is deeply reflective. It moves us beyond the external events of the Resurrection and into their inner meaning. Jesus speaks of the Father’s house, of dwelling places prepared, of a relationship that is not broken by death. Even as He speaks of going away, He reassures His disciples that they are not being abandoned. Instead, they are being invited into a deeper trust, a faith that does not rely on physical presence, but on enduring communion.
There is also a challenge within this invitation. To say that Christ is the way is to recognise that our lives are shaped by the paths we choose. It asks us to consider, Whose way am I following? What truth is guiding my decisions? Where am I seeking life? In the midst of the busyness of school, ministry, and daily responsibility, this Gospel calls us back to simplicity, to walk with Christ, to listen for His voice, and to trust where He leads.
Ultimately, the Fifth Week of Easter reminds us that faith is not about having every answer. It is about walking with the One who is the answer. The risen Christ does not remove all uncertainty, but He transforms it. He becomes our direction when the path is unclear, our truth when voices compete, and our life when we feel stretched or searching.
And so, the invitation of this week is both simple and profound - not to figure everything out, but to follow, trusting that in Christ, we are already on the way.
Red Earth Immersion- Central Australia
The Red Earth Immersion experience unfolded as a deeply formative journey that moved far beyond a typical school trip, immersing students in both the physical landscape and the living culture of Central Australia. From the very beginning, there was a strong sense of transition, leaving behind familiarity and entering a space defined by connection, story, and Country. Encounters with places such as Uluru and Kings Canyon were not simply scenic moments but became opportunities for learning through presence, listening, and reflection. Students were introduced to the rich traditions of First Nations peoples through guided experiences, storytelling, and visits to cultural centres. These moments evoked a deep emotional response, challenging prior assumptions and fostering a growing awareness of history, identity, and justice. The routine of each day- sunrises, long journeys, shared meals, and evening yarning circles, created space for both communal bonding and personal reflection, gradually shaping a more attentive and respectful way of engaging with the world.
As the Immersion progressed, the experience became increasingly relational and transformative through direct engagement with local communities on Country. Being welcomed onto homelands such as Sandy Bore and Kulpitharra, participating in practices like smoking ceremonies, and learning traditional skills such as hunting for witchetty grubs or gathering honey ants allowed students to move from observers to participants. These encounters cultivated humility and gratitude, as students recognised the privilege of being invited into spaces that held deep cultural and spiritual significance. The simplicity of desert life, marked by heat, basic living conditions, and shared responsibilities, contrasted sharply with their usual environment, prompting a reassessment of comfort, resilience, and what it meant to live well. Over time, the group dynamic strengthened, with friendships deepening through shared challenges, laughter, and moments of vulnerability.
By the conclusion of the journey, students described the experience as “eye opening, challenging, empowering,” and ultimately unforgettable, highlighting not only the places they visited but the relationships formed and the perspectives gained. A massive thank you is extended to Ms Ingrid Smolker and Mr Alex Packard who chaperoned the students.
Catechist Program
Each year, we proudly offer the Catechist Program to our Year 10 students. This long-standing tradition involves students visiting our local government school, Russell Lea Public School, on a fortnightly basis. There, they work alongside catechists from All Hallows Parish in Five Dock to support the teaching of scripture to primary students. The Catechist Program provides a valuable opportunity for our students to deepen their own faith, develop leadership skills, and engage in meaningful service to others, which is an essential expression of both our Christian spirituality and the Benedictine tradition that underpins life at Rosebank. In particular, students are called to live out the Benedictine values of service, community, and stewardship through their commitment to others. This year, we are delighted to have thirty-eight students participating in the program. The primary students greatly enjoy the presence of our Year 10 students and are deeply appreciative of the time and effort they give. Through their involvement, our students play an important role in enriching the younger students’ understanding of scripture and nurturing their faith.
Ms Olga Azzi, Assistant Dean of Ministry
Mrs Sara Camporeale
Dean of Ministry
From The Dean And Assistant Deans Of Learning
Study Tip - Effective Note Making
In the lead up to exams, many students turn to notes and flashcards to strengthen their memory and improve recall. These tools can be highly effective if they are created well. Simply copying information isn’t enough; how you process and organise your notes plays a key role in how much you actually remember.
It’s also important to understand the difference between note-taking and note-making:
- Note-taking happens in class, where you capture key ideas quickly as you listen.
- Note-making happens after class, where you organise, refine and improve your notes so they are clear, structured and useful for revision.
Here are some practical tips to help students as they prepare for the upcoming Stage 5 exam block
1. Focus on Key Ideas - Avoid trying to write everything down. Instead, listen for what matters most - definitions, formulas and key explanations your teacher emphasises. Summaries should be short phrases.
2. Use Shortcuts - Write efficiently by using abbreviations and symbols (e.g. “bc” for because, * for important). This helps you keep up without losing meaning.
3. Keep It Organised - Structure your notes with headings, bullet points and clear spacing. A well-organised page is much easier to review and revise from later.
4. Add a Quick Review Section - At the end of your notes, jot down questions or areas you need to revisit. This keeps your study focused and purposeful.
5. Review and Refine - Revisit your notes soon after class or a study block. Tidy them up, fill in any gaps and highlight key ideas as this helps consolidate your understanding.
By making small improvements to how you take and refine your notes, you can turn them into a powerful tool for revision and exam success.
You can learn more at www.studyskillshandbook.com.au by logging in with the details below and working through some of the units.
Username: rosebank
Password: 33achieve
Best of luck with your study.
Mr Dorian Kipriotis, Dean of Leaning
Stage 5 Examination Block
The College’s Stage 5 Examination Block will take place from Monday, 11 to Friday, 15 May 2026. This is a significant period in the academic calendar, providing students with the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding and progress across all subjects.
A copy of the examination timetable has been communicated to both students and parents. Students are strongly encouraged to review this carefully, noting the date, time, and venue for each examination. To support preparation, a detailed Study Guide has also been provided, outlining key content and expectations for each subject.
Stage 5 Elective Information
In Week 5, Year 8 and 9 students will begin the subject selection process for 2027 elective courses. This will commence with a virtual Parent-Student Information Session on Monday, 26 May at the following times:
- Year 8 - 5:30pm to 6:15pm.
- Year 9 - 6.30pm to 7.15pm.
A letter will be emailed to parents in Week 3 containing the Zoom links. Throughout Week 5, Year 8 students will also attend information sessions at school for the elective subjects available to them in 2027. Teachers will provide insights and answer questions to help students make informed decisions about their educational journey.
Year 10 Subject Selection for Stage 6
This term marks an important milestone for our Year 10 students as the Stage 6 subject selection process begins. This is an exciting opportunity for students to reflect on their strengths, interests and future pathways.
Over the coming weeks, students will receive detailed information about available courses, prerequisites and potential career pathways.
Students will attend subject information sessions across Weeks 5, 6 and 7, providing valuable insights into each course to support informed decision-making. Staff will be available throughout this process to guide students and ensure their choices align with their individual goals.
A key event in this process will be the Future Pathways Afternoon and Parent Information Session, in Week 9 on Tuesday, 16 June. This is an important opportunity for both students and families to gain further clarity, ask questions, and explore post-school pathways.
This process will continue into Term 3 and conclude with Subject Selection Interviews.
Parents play a vital role in this process, and we strongly encourage open and ongoing conversations at home about subject choices and future aspirations. Key dates, resources, and important information will continue to be communicated throughout the term to support families during this important decision-making period.
Free Holiday Study Space Opportunity – Macquarie University
Students looking for a productive and supportive environment during the school holidays can take advantage of a fantastic opportunity offered by Macquarie University. The university is providing free access to on-campus study spaces specifically for high school students.
This is an excellent chance for students to focus on their studies in a quiet, university setting, build positive study habits, and experience life on a tertiary campus. Spaces are limited, so students are encouraged to register early. 👉 More information and registration can be found here
Mrs Kylie Carroll, Assistant Dean of Learning - Senior School and Mr Matt Couani, Assistant Dean of Learning - Middle School
Reflections From Rosebank's China Tour
Over the coming editions of our newsletter, we are delighted to share a series of student reflections capturing the unforgettable experiences of the recent China Tour. Taking place over the Easter break, this journey was truly one to remember. It was rich in culture, connection and discovery. From iconic landmarks to meaningful exchanges, our students embraced every opportunity with curiosity and enthusiasm. We look forward to bringing their stories to life and offering a glimpse into what was, by all accounts, an extraordinary trip.
Shanghai greeted us in true Chinese fashion - overwhelmingly vibrant.
Day One was a ball of excitement with a trip to the happiest place in China: Disneyland. Despite the pouring rain, not a single frown was in sight as we ran between rides, explored attractions and met iconic Disney characters.
Day Two slowed things down with a visit to Tongli, a small water village that reminded us of Venice. Hidden behind a rickety turnstile was a world of gorgeous bridges, towering trees and the gentle sounds of traditional Chinese life. Experiencing small-town China was incredible and the canal ride and food were just as memorable. That evening, we were blown away by the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe. It was an unforgettable performance of aerialists, acrobats and daredevil motorcyclists.
Day Three was a complete contrast. We visited Pudong, the modern side of the Bund and headed straight to the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower. From the top, everything looked impossibly small. Many photos were taken before everyone’s ears popped in the high-speed elevator on the way down. The afternoon was spent shopping along Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s main shopping strip.
Day Four was jam-packed. We flew to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China. Xi’an which means “Western Peace,” and the calmer pace was a welcome change from Shanghai’s energy. That afternoon, we rode bikes along the ancient city wall, passing scenes of everyday life below with street karaoke, Tai Chi classes and locals paying respect at shrines.
Day Five was one for the history books. Walking into Pit 1 at the Terracotta Warriors Museum was overwhelming. Thousands of soldiers, each with a unique face, stood before us as crowds gathered along the edges. Pits 2 and 3 revealed more detail, including higher-ranking soldiers and preserved figures. As our guide Annie explained, many statues still hold colour, carefully preserved beneath the earth.
Later, things took a fun turn. The girls were dressed in traditional attire, complete with elaborate hairstyles and full makeup transformations, while the boys suited up in warrior-style outfits. Photos were, of course, mandatory.
One of the highlights of the trip was visiting a local school. We were greeted with smiles, waves and impressive English, immediately feeling welcome. The campus was incredible with eight-storey buildings, athletic tracks, a treetops course and even a golf range on the roof. After a calligraphy class, we were taken to the school’s cafeteria, which felt more like a full-scale restaurant. The food was amazing, the space enormous and the students incredibly curious.
We then attended a class, which was such a unique experience. As we left, waving goodbye, it was hard not to feel both sad and grateful after making new friends.
Soon after, it was time to leave Xi’an and board the famous bullet train to Chengdu.
Looking back, Shanghai and Xi’an couldn’t have been more different, yet both left a lasting impression. From the fast-paced, neon energy of Shanghai to the calm, history-rich streets of Xi’an, each moment felt unique and unforgettable. Whether it was the big-ticket experiences or the unexpected interactions with locals, this part of the trip was filled with memories we’ll be talking about for a long time. And with more still to come, it felt like we were only just getting started.
Lily Germain
Year 10
PACE News
Rosebank crowned Sydney Champions!
A huge congratulations to the Rosebank Representative Boys Junior and Girls Junior Water Polo teams who were crowned Sydney Champions at the Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Sport Water Polo Sydney Championships on Thursday, 23 April. This capped off a stellar season where our Rosebank teams dominated against some tough competition.
Well done to the following teams who also competed at the Sydney Championships and put out strong performances in the pool, on the court and on the field.
- Girls Junior Basketball - 2nd
- Girls Senior Water Polo - 2nd
- Boys Intermediate Water Polo - 2nd
- Girls Intermediate Water Polo - 3rd
- Boys Junior Touch Football - 4th
- Boys Senior Touch Football - 4th
Our Term 1 Representative Sport teams have really set the standard for what is set to be an incredible year of Representative Sport at Rosebank! 
Term 2 Representative Sport off to a firing start
Our Representative Football (Soccer) and Netball teams are off to a strong start, with all A-teams recording convincing wins over Holy Spirit. These teams have demonstrated a committed start to the season and we look forward to seeing them go from strength-to-strength this term both at training and games.
Congratulations to Mia Colussi who competed at the NSWCC Diving Championships at the end of last term
Mia placed 1st for under 13s Springboard and 2nd place for Open Platform (ages 12-17 years). Mia was the youngest competitor for the Platform competition.
Avia Luketic shows grit defending her national title
Over the school holidays, Avia Luketic (Year 7) competed at the Australian Junior Athletics Championships in Brisbane, in the U14 3000m Race Walk and won a silver medal.
Unfortunately, Avia suffered an injury halfway through the race and raced over 1500m with a hamstring tear. She was unable to defend her national title from last year, but showed such grit and determination to not only finish the race but to hold onto first place until the last lap.
PACE Department
Year 9 & 10 Music Excursion To The Lion King
On Thursday, 29 April, students from the Year 9 and 10 Elective Music classes attended an excursion to the Capitol Theatre to watch the acclaimed stage production of The Lion King.
The experience provided students with a valuable opportunity to observe professional musical theatre in a live setting. They were able to experience this musical theatre adaptation of the iconic Disney movie performed by a live orchestra and onstage actors with the innovative use of African-inspired musical elements. The production also showcased impressive costume design, stagecraft, puppetry, and lighting, all working together to tell the story in a dynamic and engaging way.
For many students, this was their first time attending a large-scale professional theatre production. The excursion linked closely to classroom learning, allowing students to deepen their understanding of how music supports storytelling and emotion within a theatrical context.
Overall, the excursion was an inspiring and memorable experience that highlighted the impact of live performance and the many career pathways within the music and performing arts industries. Students returned to school enthusiastic and eager to discuss what they had seen and heard.
Mrs Amanda Hill
CAPA Coordinator
Get Your Tickets For Disney's Frozen Jr.
Tickets On Sale: Disney’s Frozen Jr.
Rosebank proudly presents its first-ever Middle School Musical, Disney’s Frozen Jr., this June. Featuring our talented Years 7–9 students, this exciting production brings the magic of Arendelle to life. Rehearsals are already in full swing.
Performance Dates
Join us for one or all of the following performances:
- Friday, 19 June – 7pm
- Saturday, 20 June – 2pm
- Saturday, 20 June – 7pm
Tickets are on sale now and selling quickly! Register here 👉 https://www.trybooking.com/DJVVW
Mrs Amanda Hill
CAPA Coordiantor
Win An Exclusive Frozen Jr. Prize Pack!
Enter by clicking the image above or following this link.
EnrichedED News
EnrichED is off to a strong start in Term 2, with students already engaging deeply in a range of opportunities that challenge their thinking, creativity and initiative.
We recently saw the submission of entries for the Ethics Olympiad Case Writing Competition, and we now look forward to the results in the coming weeks. The quality of submissions has been impressive, with students tackling a wide range of complex and contemporary issues. These included ethical dilemmas surrounding self-driving cars, organ donation, the paradox of palm oil use, and even whether art can be considered a selfish luxury. Each case demonstrated thoughtful reasoning and a strong capacity to engage with real-world ethical questions.
Over the holidays, one of our 2025 InnovatED projects extended beyond the classroom and into the wider community. A group of Year 9 students volunteered at the Youth Week: Swap Till You Drop x Yo Tee event in Canada Bay, contributing to a sustainability-focused initiative. This is a great example of how student-driven learning through InnovatED can translate into meaningful community engagement.
“Volunteering at the Youth Week sustainable fashion fair was such a highlight for me! I helped organise and promote the event, and on the day I got to be part of running some really fun activities alongside other student volunteers, including our clothing swap and a station called ‘Yo-Tee,’ where people could design and decorate their own upcycled t-shirts. It was amazing seeing everyone get creative and excited about sustainable fashion. I also loved volunteering alongside my friends. We spent the day working on exciting projects, chatting about the impact of fashion, and helping community members enjoy the event. It was such a rewarding experience, and I definitely built my teamwork, communication, and event skills along the way.”
Georgiana Thoma Year 9
Term 2 has also seen the launch of new EnrichED opportunities. Students have begun preparations for Write a Book in a Day, where teams collaborate to plan, write and produce a book within a single day while raising funds for charity. Training has also commenced for the World Scholar’s Cup, an interdisciplinary competition that challenges students to think broadly, make connections across subjects, and work collaboratively across a range of events.
There is still plenty to look forward to this term. Our Year 7 and 8 students will represent the College at the Da Vinci Decathlon on 12 May, an academic interschool competition spanning disciplines from Mathematics and Science to creative production and ideation. On Monday, 25 May students will also attend the Sydney Writers’ Festival, engaging with leading authors and exploring the world of literature and ideas. Closer to home, Ethical Explorations Day on Wednesday, 27 May will bring together students from across Sydney for a day of discussion, debate and collaboration around contemporary ethical issues. In addition, preparation and training continue for the NRMA Future of Transport challenge throughout Term 2.
Finally, a reminder that the NSW Metropolitan Secondary Schools Chess Competition is now coordinated through PACE. Students interested in participating in chess competitions or coaching should direct any enquiries to the Dean of PACE, Mr Stuart Hanarahan, with further opportunities continuing to be offered throughout the year.
I look forward to sharing further updates and celebrating the ongoing efforts of our students in the next edition.
Ms Szilvia Soter
Gifted Education Teacher, EnrichED Program Facilitator
Pathways And Partnerships News
Year 12 Students Explore Positive Post-School Pathways
On Thursday, 23 April, Year 12 students participated in a highly engaging and informative Post-School Pathways event at the College, designed to support them as they prepare for life beyond school.
Students had the valuable opportunity to hear directly from a range of leading universities, training providers and industry organisations, including Australian Catholic University, University of Technology Sydney, University of Sydney, UNSW Sydney, Western Sydney University, NECA, TAFE NSW, and Master Builders Association.
These sessions provided students with a broad overview of the diverse pathways available after school, including university degrees, vocational education and training, apprenticeships, and industry-based career opportunities. Presenters shared insights into course options, entry pathways, industry demand, and future career prospects, equipping students with practical knowledge to inform their decisions.
Feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting how impactful and valuable the sessions were in clarifying their post-school options. Students reported feeling more confident in their understanding of pathways and better prepared to make informed choices about their future.
A key focus of the presentations was navigating the university application process through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC). Students were strongly encouraged to familiarise themselves with key application milestones using the official Year 12 guide: 👉 Key Dates for Year 12 Students
Students were also encouraged to explore and plan for university Open Days, which are typically held in the second half of the year and provide valuable opportunities to visit campuses, attend course sessions, and speak directly with staff and current students. A comprehensive and regularly updated list of Open Days can be found via UAC: 👉Upcoming Open Days.
These experiences play a crucial role in helping students make confident and informed decisions about their future study and career pathways.
2026 Year 10 Work Experience Program Launched
On Friday, 24 April, the College launched the Year 10 Work Experience Program for the current Year 10 cohort.
The program provides students with the opportunity to undertake one week of unpaid work experience, helping them explore career interests, understand workplace expectations, and connect learning to future pathways.
Scheduled for Monday, 19 October to Friday 23, October (Term 4, Week 2), students are required to organise their own placements, encouraging independence and initiative. A deadline of Friday, 24 July 2026 has been set to secure placements, with additional support available if required.
The College looks forward to supporting students as they take this important step in preparing for their future pathways.
📅 View Upcoming Pathways and Partnerships Opportunities Here
Pathways and Partnerships Team
For any pathway questions or support, please contact our team at any time:
Michael Ha
Pathways and Partnerships Coordinator (Acting)
📅 Available Monday to Friday
📧 mha@rosebank.nsw.edu.au
Michael specialises in Vocational Education and Training (VET), School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) and apprenticeships and traineeships. Michael works closely with industry and training providers to support practical, work-based pathways alongside the HSC. He also provides guidance on university and post-school pathways.
Angela Pavicic
Pathways and Partnerships
📅 Available Wednesday to Friday
📧 apavicic@rosebank.nsw.edu.au
Angela brings extensive experience in career development and guidance. She offers expert support on university pathways, scholarships, UCAT preparation (the medical university admissions test) and a wide range of post-school options, helping students make informed decisions and confidently plan their futures.
Amanda Ivanac
Pathways and Partnerships Assistant
📅 Available Monday to Wednesday
📧 aivanac@rosebank.nsw.edu.au
Amanda provides specialist guidance in TAFE and university pathways, Australian Defence Force (ADF) careers and post-school nursing pathways. She also supports students with planning and transitioning into a range of post-school education and training options.
Mrs Amanda Ivanac
Pathways and Partnerships Assistant
Gold For Rosebank Students In The Australian Dragon Boating Championships
Liam James (Year 11), Joe O’Neill (Year 9), and Peter Smith (Year 9) spent the last weekend of the Easter holidays on the Sunshine Coast competing in the 2026 Australian Dragon Boating Championships - AusChamps and State v State.
They represented NSW in the Junior (U18) team and they won Gold for all of their three races, beating their closest competitors QLD.
Liam and Joe also paddled for their club, the Sydney Zodiacs, where they won 4 Golds and 2 Silvers.
Congratulations to Liam, Joe and Peter on your well earned success!
Mr Ewen Sinclair-Kydd
House Coordinator – Adamson
You Are Invited To Our Next Parent Engagement Gathering (PEG)
Understanding how young people learn has never been more important or complex. With so much information (and misinformation) available, it can be difficult for parents to know what truly supports their child’s learning and what just sounds good in theory.
We warmly invite you to our upcoming parent engagement session, How Students Learn Best… (and What Actually Works), presented by Rosebank’s Dean of Learning, Dorian Kipriotis on Wednesday, 3 June from 6:30pm - 8pm. This practical and insightful evening will unpack the science behind effective learning, challenge common myths and offer clear, evidence-based strategies that you can use to support your child at home.
Whether your child is just beginning their secondary journey or preparing for senior studies, this session will provide valuable tools and perspectives to help them thrive.
Click the above image or use this link to RSVP.
Rosebank College Hosts Professional Learning Leaders
Late last term, Rosebank College proudly hosted the annual Professional Learning and Accreditation Network (PLAN), bringing together educational leaders to share insights into evidence-based practice and teacher accreditation pathways.
We were privileged to hear updates from the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) and Independent Schools NSW, alongside presentations from respected leaders across the sector, including Kate Anderson from Monte Sant d’Angelo Mercy College and Janine Timillero from Newington College, Carmel Patterson from ACU, Chris Delaney, St Columbia Anglican School in Port Macquarie, Vicky Sheehan, from Meriden and Genevieve Comino from Redlands.
PLAN meets each term to support the professional growth and career development of teachers. Rosebank is proud to be an active contributor, reinforcing our commitment to collaboration and evidence-based practice through partnerships with universities and professional networks.
We extend our sincere thanks to all presenters and to PLAN organisers Ken Wong (Ravenswood School for Girls), Kate Anderson (Monte Sant d’Angelo Mercy College) and Janine Timillero (Newington College). It was a valuable day of professional learning, collaboration and shared expertise.
Ms Jennifer Jackson
Dean of Professional Learning and Culture
Staff Spotlight: Sebastian Lee
What is your position in the College? HSIE Teacher.
When did you start? Term 1, 2026.
Where have you come from prior to Rosebank? Mount St Benedict College.
What is the first thing you noticed about Rosebank College? Lovely campus.
Describe Rosebank in 3 words? Open, Structured and Opportunity.
Best thing about your role? Observing students and myself grow.
Book you are reading right now? Atomic Habits by James Clear
Rosebank Class of ’69 Reunion – Save the Date!
We’re delighted to share that the Class of 1969 will be holding their next reunion in May 2026.
Since 2019, members of the Class of ’69 have been reconnecting and reminiscing at regular gatherings, and these reunions are now held bi-annually. Their next reunion details are:
Date: Saturday, 23 May 2026
Time: 12pm onwards
Venue: The Little Snail Restaurant, 3/50 Murray Street, Pyrmont
Cost: Set menu – $50 per person
If you are a member of the Class of 1969, you are warmly invited to attend.
RSVP by Friday, 8 May to:
Sue West (Gooley) – 0432 112 294
Margie Gartner (McKeon) – 0438 731 545
Maree Pitt (McMahon) – 0417 403 889
Rosebank Family Businesses
We're proud to support our Rosebank Family Businesses – an initiative that brings our community together by promoting locally owned businesses run by Rosebank families. It's a great way to connect, support one another, and shop local.
If you own a business, we invite you to add it to the list and become part of our growing network.
Helping Out Your Fellow Families
🔗Community Links
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