Week 4, Term 2 | 24 May 2024

An important component of our Strategic Plan is to ensure we ‘Enhance learning spaces and facilities so that they support our Learning Model, and ensure a safe, innovative, and nurturing environment.’

I am excited to announce that our new learning space furniture has arrived!

Led by our Director of Learning and Innovation, Alex Fentoullis, a team of our teachers visited other high performing schools to examine their newly designed learning spaces. We then met with several companies before making our final furniture selections. This comprehensive reconnaissance has allowed us the assurance of knowing we have secured the best furniture available.

What is most powerful and exciting about this phase of school refurbishment, is that it has been guided by our co-created Strategic Plan and Learning Model. This will ensure that the improvements are not only aesthetically appealing, but more importantly educationally purposeful and functional.

The OECD ‘Future of Education and Skills 2030 project’ posed the questions:

‘How can we prepare students for jobs that have not yet been created, to tackle societal challenges that we cannot yet imagine, and to use technologies that have not yet been invented?’

‘What kinds of competencies (knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values) do today’s students need to thrive in and shape the future for better lives and for individual and societal well-being?’

‘How do we design learning environments that can nurture such competencies?’

This new furniture will assist us to achieve our six guiding principles to put in place a rigorous framework for all teaching and learning:

• promoting wellbeing
• supporting evidence-based practice
• using data and assessments to inform
• maintaining explicit teaching
• encouraging integration, investigation, and collaboration.

You are more than welcome to visit our learning spaces after 3:30pm on school days to see the new furniture. As you wander, you will also notice that some spaces have received new carpets, sound absorbing technology on the ceilings, and have been repainted.

We have also added extra pot plants (both outdoor and indoor), as research strongly supports their positive impact on wellbeing and behaviour. Also, those who enjoy a free sausage at Terrey Hills on Saturday mornings will appreciate our new stainless steel barbecue!

Peter Grimes | Headmaster

Purchase your tickets for the Winter Ball Fundraiser and join us for a night of fun while supporting our School! 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK - https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1205067

Can You Help with Shipping?

Jambo! (Hello in Swahili). Team Vista is a humanitarian and aid project (founded by Brendan Frost's mother, Kerry Anne) operating in the communities in Moshi, Tanzania. Our programs aim to give young people the best education possible and support their livelihoods to improve intergenerational poverty.

We are very fortunate that Mosman Preparatory School has come on board, generously donating quality school furniture. With your invaluable support, we are poised to extend this gesture of kindness to the most underserved school communities in Moshi, Tanzania. Our plan involves consolidating these essential furnishings into a shipping container, alongside an assortment of medical equipment and other donated goods.

To facilitate this initiative, we are endeavouring to raise $10,000 to cover the logistics of shipping the container from Sydney to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Your generous tax-deductible contributions will play a pivotal role in realising this goal. You can make your donation conveniently through direct deposit or credit card via our website. Click on the Link - Team Vista Donations or scan the QR code.

Direct deposit information
Account Name: Global Development Group
BSB: 064 118
Account Number: 1020 0094
Reference: J624N Mosman

If donating via credit card on our website, please ensure you write Mosman in the message section and J624N as the selected project number. This will ensure that we can send a direct message of thanks to those that have contributed.

Your support, in any form, is deeply appreciated and will make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities we serve. We look forward to sharing videos and images of your impact in the very near future.

Link - Team Vista

Brendan Frost | Year 6 Teacher | Sustainability

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck. Proverbs 1:8-9

Parenting is a journey filled with challenges and rewards, and many families seek guidance from their faith to navigate this path. For those who follow the teachings of the Bible, parenting involves a unique blend of love, discipline, and instruction rooted in biblical principles. Over the next 3 weeks, I hope to share with you some key biblical wisdom and how it can be applied to modern family life, along with some resources to help you along the journey.

Firstly, parenting is grounded in the belief that children are a gift from God. Psalms 127:3 states, "Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him." This perspective encourages us as parents to view our role as both a privilege and a responsibility. May we find great joy in proactively guiding our children with faith and love.

Wisdom #1 Love and Nurture

The Bible emphasises the importance of love and nurture in the parent-child relationship. Ephesians 6:4 advises, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This verse highlights the need for a balanced approach that avoids harshness and fosters a loving environment. It also highlights the importance of providing an age appropriate and time appropriate explanation for our instructions to our children so that they know we are speaking out of a place of love and nurture and not nagging and controlling. I imagine that when our children are in a heightened state of emotion, it would not be productive for us to attempt to have a rational conversation about a particular matter.

Application # 1

1. Foster Open Communication: A home centred on open communication will help our children understand that we are speaking from a position of love and nurture. In my household, dinner time provides a place for my kids to freely share what’s on their mind and what they may need to get off their chest. It also enables my wife and I to speak into their concern and engage in a collaborative solution approach to the matter raised.

2. Encouraging Positive Behaviour: Positive reinforcement and praise for good behaviour are crucial. When children see their efforts acknowledged, they are more likely to repeat those behaviours. In our home, we use biblical stories and parables from Jesus to illustrate the virtues of honesty, kindness, and integrity. There are plenty of great kids books out there that can illustrate positive behaviour.

Blessings,

Rev. Daryl Diener | School Chaplain & Coordinator of Pastoral Care

Resources:

Here are some useful links regarding parenting workshops/strategies:

Everyday People Psychology and Family Therapy https://www.eppt.com.au/family/#content

Relationships Australia https://www.relationshipsnsw.org.au/support/services/

Parent courses from Catholic Care. We highly recommend Keeping Kids in Mind, Bringing up Great Kids or Tuning into Teens https://www.catholiccare.org/family-youth-children/parenting/child-development-parenting/

The Confident Parenting Course Mosman Village Church https://www.mosmanvillage.church/events/confident-parent-course-2024

Having investigated the European arrival in Australia last term, Year 4 are now considering this historical event from an Indigenous perspective. The students are inquiring into the traditional lifestyles of Australia’s Indigenous peoples and their culture.

Basket weaving has a long and significant tradition among Indigenous women, who create a variety of products using natural fibers. Materials for making baskets are sourced from plants like pandanus, palms, and specific bark fibers. These plants are skillfully woven and knotted into baskets, bags, and mats.

Our students explored the natural materials on our Terrey Hills campus and collected a variety of fibres to construct a woven structure suitable for carrying food items. Working collaboratively, they built simple structures using sticks, twine, leaves and grasses. This activity was challenging and required them to reflect on the purpose and qualities of the natural materials to create an effective vessel.

In addition to weaving, the students harvested silver beet from the vegetable garden and prepared spinach and ricotta triangles. The chefs did an excellent job, and we enjoyed their delicious creations after our challenging weaving task.

Caitlin Hayman | Year 4 Teacher

Non Nobis Solum

We are delighted to share the wonderful efforts of our Year 6 boys, who recently participated in a GoodCHAP community service initiative. 'One Meal' on the Northern Beaches is a community organisation in Australia that provides food and support to people in need, including; individuals experiencing homelessness, financial difficulties, or social isolation.

Our Year 6 boys, under the expert guidance of Ms Brown, worked diligently in the kitchen at Terrey Hills to produce 26 meals for those in need. The menu for the day included a delicious ratatouille, creamy mashed potatoes, and organic sausages. This event marks the beginning of what we hope will be many more cook-ups by Mosman Preparatory for One Meal, with plans to involve other year groups in the future.

A few thoughts from the Year 6 boys:

“Cooking with friends was fun and in the back of our minds, it was nice to know that we were helping lots of people in need.” Jackson Scoular
“As we are more privileged than most people, it was meaningful for us to show compassion and do something for others.” Tristan Skulina
“The meals we made were nice and healthy and will be amazing for those that will receive them.” Ethan Hanna

We were honoured to have Paula and Darren from One Meal join us on the day. They spoke to the boys about the charity’s mission, the significant achievements made, and the pressing needs within our community. Their insights were invaluable, inspiring our students and underscoring the impact of their efforts.

A big thank you goes out to our wonderful parents who came to assist in the kitchen. Special thanks to Wendy Seeto, a busy Year 6 parent and a long-time volunteer with One Meal, whose dedication and hard work helped make the day possible.

Brendan Frost | Year 6 Teacher | Sustainability

As part of the Mandarin program, this week, our Senior Primary students embarked on an exciting Mandarin Incursion adventure, immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of Chinese culture. These sessions were brimming with vibrant activities and engaging experiences.

From the graceful strokes of Chinese calligraphy to the intricate art of Chinese painting, our students delved into various facets of Chinese artistic expression. They also explored the symbolism and craftsmanship behind the creation of Chinese knots, weaving together tradition and innovation.

Our young learners also honed their fine motor skills and creativity through the delicate craft of Chinese papercutting, learning about designs and patterns with precision and flair.

Here's a sneak peek into the captivating world of our Mandarin Incursion, as seen in the pictures below.

Mandarin Teacher | Ting Wang

Earlier this term in assembly, an important message was shared by the Mosman Prep Waste Warrior to all students of Mosman Preparatory School. His message to all of us was to care more deeply and show greater respect to our School by picking up our trash and recycling.

Please take a moment to view the promotional video from the Mosman Prep Waste Warrior. He truly is the legend and hero we all need.

Brendan Frost | Year 6 Teacher | Sustainability Coordinator

Brendan Frost | Year 6 Teacher | Sustainability 

“I am a collector. Always looking, finding ... and keeping! Bowerbird loves BLUE. Magnificent cobalt. Brilliant, vibrant blue! But something is missing. What could it be?” (Bowerbird Blues by Aura Parker)

On Wednesday 22 May, Mosman Prep boys participated in the National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS). This event is held annually by the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) where a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian is selected and read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places across the country.

Mosman Prep boys were just a small group of the 2,359,147 participants at 21,969 locations across Australia, that tuned in to watch author Aura Parker’s reading of the Bowerbird Blues, including her talk about what inspired her to write the book and how she drew the bowerbird.

Year 2 used the Bowerbird Blues as their Drama focus this term. They created paper puppets and sets to reenact the story, as well as record boys’ reading and ‘bowerbird’ movements to create a wonderful video that the school enjoyed during this week’s assembly. Furthermore, they integrated Bowerbird Blues into their Maths and Literacy lessons.

Thank you to those students who helped brought in small twigs or something blue. 

Ms Dora Kazamias | Teacher Librarian & Ms Anne Moss | Junior Primary Challenge

Exciting news! We're offering a fun-filled Vacation Care program during the July school holidays, Monday 1 to Friday 5 July, for children aged 4-12. See below for all the details:

Program Details:

Dates: Monday 1 to Friday 5 July 
Time: 8:00am - 4:00pm
Age: 4-12 years old
Who can attend: Current Mosman Prep students (Early Entry & Primary) and children from other schools (boys & girls) within the age range.

Activities:

• Workshops: Each workshop morning features engaging workshops (subject to change due to COVID). Afternoons are for organised sports, games, cooking, and free play.
• Excursions: Full-day programs are also planned for our excursion days.

Booking & Enrolment:

Limited spots available, so book early!
Booking: Link: Trybooking / CRXZM
Enrolment: If your child is not already enrolled in ASC through HubWorks, complete the form here: Link - Mosman Prep Hubworks

Cancellation Policy:

• All bookings are final due to workshop planning.
• For COVID-related cancellations, contact lwestenberg@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au
  

We can't wait to make your child's school holidays unforgettable!

Contact us:

Leonie Westenberg | Director ASC & Vacation Care
lwestenberg@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au
Phone during Vacation Care & ASC: 0412 229 164

The theme for the United Nations World Oceans Day 2024 is "Planet Ocean: Tides are Changing". It aims to uncover the hidden facets of planet Earth and create a fresh surge of enthusiasm for preserving and safeguarding the ocean and our entire blue planet. In recognition of this important day and message, please join us once more to help make a difference.

When: Sunday 2 June

Time: 9:30-11:00am

Meeting Point: Athol Hall Lawns (we will be cleaning around Athol Beach, Whiting Beach and the trails between). View Map 

What to bring: School hat, gardening gloves, water bottle and morning tea

Register your attendance: Click here to sign-up or scan the QR code.

Please note that boys will need to be under the direct care and supervision of their family members or caregivers.

If you have any questions, please contact Brendan Frost bfrost@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au

Brendan Frost | Year 6 Teacher | Sustainability

We are pleased to announce that coach bookings for Term 2, 2024 are now available and it is essential to rebook:

For the Mosman Preparatory School Chatswood Coach Service, follow this Link - Mosman Prep School Transport.

Bookings for the Northern Beaches can be made through the Queenwood School, following this Link - Queenwood School Transport.

Attention all Mosman Prep skiers and snowboarders!

Time is running out if you're considering registration. The Sydney Interschools Championships are scheduled for the final week of the school holidays, running from July 16th to 19th in Perisher.

Please refer to this attached document for comprehensive details about the competition, including registration information and the specific snowsports being offered.

If you haven't already done so, kindly complete our Google Form to provide us with your son's details and your contact information, ensuring you receive important updates.

Additionally, please ensure you have a current Snowracer ID for both parent volunteers and participants. You can renew or register for one via the provided link. Please add your son's Snowracer ID to the Google Form or email it to Mr. Blackband.

It is also a condition of entry that all participants complete an Online Participant Waiver to compete in the 2024 Interschools Championships.
2024 Participant Waiver Form
2024 Volunteer Waiver Form

For further information, please visit our School Snowsports Page. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact Mr Blackband.

Matt Blackband | Director of Technology | 2024 Snowsports Coordinator
mblackband@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au

The Balmoral Burn takes place up Awaba Street on Sunday 26 May.

We are entering a MCEPS team (all welcome) into one of the many races taking place, the Year 3-6 Primary Schools Challenge: 9:20am race start. There is also a K-2 Race at 9:10am for younger boys.

All boys are welcome to take part and those who enter in the Year 3-6 race will need to meet at the Balmoral Beach Rotunda wearing their School PE Uniform (navy blue polo) or athletics uniform at 8:45am. Please allow time prior to this to collect registration packs, timing devices etc if need be.

REGISTRATION (link HERE)- For Years K-2 & 3-6 (including Primary School Challenge) races, parents should register their children in 'Individual or Family 2024', and then select Mosman Prep as their child's school. This will ensure their entry is also part of the Primary School Challenge.

Steve Riddett | Director of Sport

Best of luck to Year 6 boys, Adam Shih and Edward Timmins, who will next week represent NSWCIS at the State Basketball Championships. The Championships will be held in Newcastle from Tuesday 28 May to Friday 31 May. Go CIS!

Steve Riddett | Director of Sport

We are excited that the Junior Primary Athletics Carnival will be held at Mosman Prep’s Outdoor Learning Centre in Terrey Hills on Tuesday 4 June. Like last year, Early Entry will again be joining the rest of Junior Primary at the carnival.

Arrival and Dismissal Arrangements

• Students need to arrive at school as normal. Boys will then be transported to Terrey Hills by bus in their respective year groups.
• The carnival will take place from 11:00am-1:30pm including all running races and novelty events.
• There will be a parents race at the end of the day. If you are interested in participating, please email Mr Johnston to let him know you would like to take part (ejohnston@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au). 
• At the conclusion of the carnival, students are permitted to go home with parents who are in attendance. All other boys will be returned to school by bus to be collected at 2:40pm.
  

Spectators

• Parents are permitted to attend the carnival. We look forward to having your support for the boys. We ask that parents remain in the designated areas. 

What to wear and bring

• Junior Primary boys are to wear their House sports uniform, including sun hat. As this is an inter-house Carnival, all boys must compete in their House shirt. Shoes with extra grip are recommended for the grass surface.
• Boys in Early Entry will need to wear their uniform to the carnival, including their sun hat.
• Bring a packed recess, lunch and drinks in a bag.
• It is recommended that boys apply sunscreen at home. Sunscreen will also be available throughout the day.
• If any boy requires daily medication, they are to bring it in a labeled bag and give it to their teacher.

Events

• All boys will compete in 50m and 100m races, with the 200m only for those boys who turn 8 this year.
• At the end of the running races, all boys will be involved in a novelty event rotation.
  

In the event of wet weather, the carnival will be postponed.

For those parents who will be attending, we look forward to seeing you there!

Edward Johnston | Sports Teacher

We are entering school teams in the ‘Primary Schools Challenge’ event at the:

Mini-Mos Marathon (https://www.mini-mos.com/2024-registration/ -2km race) on Sunday 16 June.

Parents will need to register their sons by entering their child's details first, as their age determines which races they can enter. During the registration, they simply select "Mosman Church of England Preparatory School” from the list of participating schools. All Mosman Prep boys are welcome to enter.

Steve Riddett | Director of Sport

Saturdays: On Saturdays the MCEPS Information Line will be updated between 6:30 and 7:00am. This number has the most up-to-date information the School can provide regarding matters of sport and excursions. Parents are to call this number and not the School Office. After heavy rain, Mosman Council often closes its grounds, so please check with this number for all school sport and excursion cancellations.

Weekdays: In case of inclement weather, please ring the Prep Information Line, which will be updated from 1:00pm. Ovals might be closed by Mosman Council on fine days, if the preceding days have been wet. It is therefore advised that parents should ring the School’s Information Line on training days if there has been recent rain. 

PLEASE NOTE:  if the message has not been updated, Sport is ON as scheduled.

Steve Riddett | Director of Sport

Mosman Prep prides itself on its service to community, guided by our motto, Non Nobis Solum – Not for Ourselves Alone. In this spirit, in partnership with the P&F, we are pleased to be able to launch a new school community initiative called ‘Meals with Love’. 

This service will provide home cooked evening meals for Mosman Prep families in times of need. All meals are cooked by parent and teacher volunteers and are available for as many evenings as required. This service is anonymous, so meals cooked by volunteers will be delivered to the office for collection by the family as coordinated by the School. If your family has a need for this service, please contact Julie Shortland at the School Office at ea@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au.

If you are also interested in being a volunteer and cooking the occasional meal for a family in need, please contact our Meals with Love Coordinator, Rachel Johnson-Kelly at racheljk@bigpond.com. 

Rachel Joshnson-Kelly | Meals with Love Coordinator

The Recycled Uniform Shop is open on Tuesdays 7:45-8:15am.

For the schedule of school events, please refer to the online calendar, which can be found HERE.