Week 9, Term 2 | 28 June 2024

Dedicating 29 years of one’s life to teacher education in one school is a very rare thing!

As previously communicated, our highly respected and greatly appreciated Deputy, Mr Greg McDonald, has announced his retirement, to take effect at the end of his upcoming Long Service Leave period. Greg’s final day at the School was today!

Last week in our Honours Assembly, a Kindergarten boy I was sitting beside turned to me and said, “I can’t believe Mr Mac won’t be at Mosman Prep next term.”

No doubt many in the Mosman Prep Community, both those who have moved on and those currently at the School, will be feeling the same way.

I believe this is less to do with the length of Mr Mac’s tenure, the incredible opportunities he has enabled (such as camps, and trips to Uluru and Japan), or the seamless logistical operations managed by him, and more to do with “the person he is”.

The Mosman Prep Staff often discuss the importance of relationships as the foundation of all we do. Recently I shared, ‘Ten Identified Strategies for Teachers to Develop Positive Relationships with Students’.

They included:

• Provide structure
• Have a positive attitude
• Make learning fun
• Incorporate storytelling
• Work with students’ Interests
• Show an interest in their lives outside of school
• Incorporate humour
• Treat them with respect
• Teach with enthusiasm and passion
• Go the extra mile

In my mind, these strategies are embodied by Mr Mac and, among his other qualities, endear him to the boys, parents, and staff.

Following the recent Japan Tour organised by Greg (which saw 34 boys have an incredible cultural experience, including playing rugby and soccer against Japanese children, and a total touring party of 94), I received the lovely email below.

Dear Mr McDonald,

Thank you for an incredible international adventure. The experience you crafted for the boys has provided them with an unforgettable experience, and learnings that will carry with them forever.

Thank you for your enduring passion, support, and leadership, we could not have asked for a better role model for our son as he completes his final year at Prep and commences his next chapter.

In Mr Mac, our boys really couldn’t have asked for a better role model, and neither could our staff.

Greg and Meegan (Mrs Mac), on behalf of past families and staff, current families and staff, the wider community, and the School Council, thank you for the exceptional service you have both provided to Mosman Prep.

We wish you every blessing for your upcoming retirement and the years to follow.

You will be deeply missed.

Peter Grimes | Headmaster

Ephesians 6:1-4 Children, you belong to the Lord, and you do the right thing when you obey your parents. The first commandment with a promise says, “Obey your father and your mother, and you will have a long and happy life.” Parents, don't be hard on your children. Raise them properly. Teach them and instruct them about the Lord.

How does this phrase “Children, obey your parents!” sit with you? Is it controlling, negative, disempowering? When understood correctly we would realise the incredible responsibility we as parents have in raising our precious children. As a parent you do possess greater life experience and wisdom, which can help guide your children in making safe and responsible decisions. In the safety of our family nucleus, we want to instill values such as respect, humility and gratitude.

In sharing this passage to the boys this week in Chapel we learned that obedience also leads to blessing others by modelling positive behaviour, which can inspire and influence peers and siblings to act similarly. When children obey their parents, it creates a ripple effect of respect and kindness, enhancing relationships within the family and the broader community. This cooperative spirit and mutual respect contribute to a more supportive and loving environment for everyone involved.

In the Bible, Jesus' example of obedience involved honouring his earthly parents, as well as obedience to God the Father, serving as the ultimate model. His willingness to follow God's will, even unto death on the cross, demonstrates the profound impact and blessings that can arise from true obedience. This example encourages all of us to view obedience not just as a duty but as a pathway to deeper spiritual fulfillment and communal harmony.

So, how can we foster obedience that brings about blessing in our children? What can we do as parents to make it easier for our children to follow our instructions? Well, the bible passage above turns its focus towards parents - Parents, don't be hard on your children. Raise them properly. Teach them and instruct them about the Lord. Whether we are asking our children to clean their room, brush their teeth, speak kindly to their sibling, or unpack the dishwasher, may our tone be filled with grace, warmth and understanding.

Let’s take a moment to put ourselves in their shoes. Remember how we felt as children when our parents gave us instructions. Were we more inclined to listen when spoken to with kindness and empathy? May our children know that the reason for our teaching and instructions is rooted in love. We want them to understand that our guidance is meant to help them grow and develop into cherished members of the family and school community. Our ultimate goal is to nurture their hearts and minds, helping them become compassionate, responsible, and loving individuals.

Have a safe and refreshing holiday break!

Blessings,

Rev. Daryl Diener | School Chaplain & Pastoral Care Coordinator

On Sunday 23 June, the eighth ‘Hello Mandarin’ Chinese Recitation competition for Primary and High School students in Australia was held at the PIA Centre in Sydney Olympic Park – a competition jointly organised by the Sydney Recitation Arts Group and the Chinese Language Teachers Association of NSW.

The competition encourages students to learn Chinese and aims to improve their public speaking skills. A huge congratulations to the participants of this year’s ‘Hello Mandarin’:

• Christian Coatsworth (Early Entry) won the third prize for his age group in the individual competition.
• Eason Wu (5B), Justin Guo (5B), Terrance Zheng (5B), Aidan Wong (5G), Khoi Dinh (5G), Valerio Iacovelli (5G) won the second prize of their age group in the group competition.
• Win Huang (3H) won the first prize for his age group in the individual competition.

Congratulations to all the students on their wonderful achievement at the competition!

Mandarin Teacher | Ting Wang

This term, Year 5’s Science topic has been ‘How do the Earth, Sun and Moon compare to each other?’ As part of our learning we were assigned the task to design, build and explain a colony for the Moon. We took this action after reading a Kids News article about the Moon being a habitat for humans by the year 2030!

The project was a lot of fun for everybody and it taught us some useful skills, such as being able to use a hot glue gun and upcycle unused objects that we might usually throw out. On Thursday of Week 8, everyone brought in their marvellous creations. There was cardboard, glad wrap, foil, paper and even lego crammed together to make the models. And, of course, there were more than a few toilet rolls!

We had to tackle hard questions to make this project realistic and enable people to survive in our dwellings. There were questions like, ‘How will we keep a sustainable source of energy, oxygen, water and food?’ And some people came up with amazing ideas, like building a geodesic dome made out of strong triangles that can be replaced in case of damage. Or, since water is heavy and hard to carry to space, we should take hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O) and mix them into water (H2O), turning the excess oxygen atoms into oxygen molecules that we can breathe. These are just a few of the many solutions we came up with to make this work!

Overall, this project was really fun and interesting and we all learnt something from it! I hope the boys next year will get the same opportunity to learn this topic and create this project. And I think I speak for us all when I say, ‘I can’t wait to show it off!’

Harry Abeywickrema

On Wednesday, Year 3 boys proudly showcased some of the work that they have been busy completing throughout the semester for our integrated English and History ANZACs unit. The students have learned about many different aspects of World War 1 and its ongoing impact on Australian society. These include different perspectives of those involved, including soldiers, First Nations peoples, women on the homefront, volunteers, nurses, animals and more.

The boys excitedly started the day by leading their parents and guests through the exhibition, explaining various tasks and their key learnings. A little later, the Year 3 Queenwood girls arrived. Although some boys were a little nervous, they did an outstanding job acting as tour guides and ended the Queenwood visit by collaboratively writing Haikus on a chosen aspect of World War 1.

Throughout our unit of study, students have made connections to the ANZAC spirit and our School motto, Non Nobis Solum.

A huge thank you to Mrs Crowther and Ms Kazamias for seamlessly integrating our unit of study into their Key Learning Areas. We couldn’t be prouder of how much the boys learned from this semester.

Ellie Mckay and Serena Hannon | Year 3 Teachers

Early Entry have been collecting 10c bottles to raise money for the Terrey Hills Rural Fire Brigade. Our total was $62.20 after a few trips to the Return and Earn drop-off at the Zoo. During a class discussion about fundraising, the boys suggested holding a cake stall to boost our total.

We wrote a letter to Mr Grimes with our idea and were pleased to start planning for the event. We made posters and delivered our message to each class. Thank you to all the EE families who baked over the weekend for our sale. The boys made wearable posters to help advertise on the day.

Early Entry raised $769.40 from the cake sale, bringing our total to $831.60. We look forward to presenting this amount to the Fire Brigade when they visit us at Terrey Hills in Term 3.

Jessica Elvey and Ainsley Carlow | Early Entry 

Boys were encouraged to borrow up to 3 books for these holidays - 1 for each week of the winter break! Why? Because school holidays are truly the perfect time to read. Here are just a few of the reasons and benefits of holiday reading:

Uninterrupted Time

One of the biggest luxuries of school holidays is the abundance of uninterrupted time. Without the usual pressures of schoolwork, sporting and extracurricular commitments, students can immerse themselves in a book for hours without worrying about assignments or early mornings. This uninterrupted time allows for deeper engagement with the story and characters, fostering a more enriching reading experience.

Expanding Horizons

Holidays are a time for exploration and adventure, and books are the perfect passport to other worlds. Whether it's traveling through time with historical fiction, unraveling mysteries in far-off lands, or experiencing different cultures through the eyes of diverse characters, reading during the holidays can transport students to places beyond their immediate environment. This not only broadens their understanding of the world but also enhances empathy and critical thinking skills.

Improving Academic Skills

Reading is an excellent way to maintain and improve academic skills during the holidays. Regular reading helps to expand vocabulary, improve comprehension, and enhance writing skills. This keeps the mind sharp and ready for the next school term. Moreover, students who develop a habit of reading for pleasure often perform better academically, as they are more adept at understanding complex texts and articulating their thoughts clearly.

Stress Relief and Relaxation

It is also a fantastic way to unwind and de-stress. Engaging with a good book can provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of school and the digital noise of social media. The act of reading itself is a form of mindfulness, helping to calm the mind and reduce anxiety, making reading an ideal activity for those lazy holiday afternoons.

Encouraging a Lifelong Love of Reading

The freedom of choice that comes with holiday reading can ignite a lifelong love of books. Without the constraints of required reading lists, students can choose books that genuinely interest them. Whether it's a gripping fantasy series, a fascinating non-fiction topic, or a compelling biography, the joy of selecting and enjoying a book purely for pleasure can foster a lasting appreciation for reading.

Going for GOLD!

Finally, let’s not forget the ‘Become a Gold Medal Reader’ competition that Senior Primary are currently undertaking. The holiday is the perfect time to complete some of the challenges they have been tasked with.

So, as the holidays unfold, encourage the young readers in your life to pick up a book. With no school pressures and ample time to dive into different worlds, school holidays are truly the perfect time to read.

Happy reading!

Dora Kazamias | Teacher Librarian

Our school is committed to providing students with learning opportunities, which is why we are pleased to have a subscription to ePlatform, a digital library for students that provides free access to eBooks and Audiobooks.

The benefits of ePlatform:

With ePlatform, students have 24/7 access to eBooks and Audiobooks for free. This is a wonderful extension of our physical school library and allows titles to be checked out at home, over the weekend or during school breaks without worrying about losing or accruing late fees because they automatically return at the end of the loan period. Students of all ages can benefit from ePlatform's reading and comprehension tools. A service like this can benefit struggling or reluctant readers, learning-challenged students, second-language learners as well as gifted readers alike.

• Unique reader customisation with Settings wizard, across all devices
• Introduce students to books above their reading level
  
• Help busy kids find time to read
• Professionally curated collection with age restrictions set by school staff
• Increase vocabulary and improve pronunciation and comprehension
• User friendly for all types of readers & listeners (e.g. reluctant, dyslexic)

How does it work? 

Ensure your reader has the ePlatform app which can be downloaded for free from the Apple Store, Google Play Store or visit eplatform.co to begin. Students use their school email as their username and password to login and access the platform.

Dora Kazamias | Teacher Librarian

Class Photos 

• Sibling Photos commence at 8:00am.
• School uniform including blazers to be worn.
• Group / team photos will take place on Friday 9 August. Uniforms for each sport are required. Football boots are not required.
  

Ordering class photos online is quick and easy using the steps below!

Step 1. Go to our ordering portal - Link Mosman Prep Photos  

Step 2. Click 'Sign in with Student Details'. Enter your child's surname and birthdate and you are ready to start ordering. Once logged in, you can also order for siblings and family photos.

*****Please note Sibling Photo orders must be placed BEFORE your photo day.

Online ordering closes Sunday 11 August 2024

An archive fee applies after this date

Sport/Specialty Photo Orders will be organised after photo day on a separate letter that will be sent home.

PROTOCOLS INCLUDED DUE to COVID awareness

Hygiene and cleaning guidelines used by MSP Photography staff are in accordance with information distributed by the relevant Health Authorities. 

As per all recommendations, if a child is unwell there is no need for them to attend photo day.

If you have any questions regarding the photography services or packages available for purchase, please contact our friendly team on 9499 6555 or by email to sydney@msp.com.au

Brendan Frost | Deputy Headmaster

Non Nobis Solum 

A huge thank you to those who have already made a donation towards the shipping of our old furniture to Tanzania. There is still plenty of time to support this wonderful initiative. 

The donation process is now much simpler. All you need to do is click on the following link where you can make your tax-deductible donation. Link - Team Vista Container

With sincere thanks and gratitude, from Mosman Prep and Team Vista.

Brendan Frost | Year 6 Teacher | Sustainability Coordinator

The July Vacation Care program is now full.

For those of you who have already booked, the details are below:

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.

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

Congratulations to Ethan Hanna (6H), who after two days of trials, was selected for the CIS Rugby Team! Ethan will now go on to represent CIS at the NSWPSSA Rugby Championships in Wagga Wagga in August.

Well done also to Salvador Apfel, William Dixon and Jamison Rose who were also selected by IPSHA to attend the trials.

After-school training and Round 8 (Saturday 27 July) recommences in the first week of Term 3.

Winter Sport Saturday fixtures conclude with Round 10 on August 10 and after-school training concludes with House Competitions on Wednesday 14 August (Year 3/4) and Thursday 15 August (Year 5/6).

Please note Summer Sport (basketball and cricket) after-school training and Saturday Fixtures do not recommence until Term 4.

Next term, we will be offering our Year 5/6 boys an opportunity to take part in some AFL training sessions at Middle Head Oval. If possible, we also hope to organise a mid-week game or two against other schools later in the term. Training will take place at Middle Head Oval on Tuesday afternoons from 3:30-4:30pm, commencing in Week 5. Rugby and Football training concludes on afternoons in Week 4.

AFL Training Dates (3:30-4:30pm at Middle Head Oval)

• Tuesday 20 August (Week 5)
• Tuesday 27 August (Week 6)
• Tuesday 3 September (Week 7)
• Tuesday 10 September (Week 8)
• Tuesday 17 September (Week 9)- Year 6 only as Year 5 on Camp.
• Tuesday 24 September (Week 10)

Boys will be transported at the end of the day to training by School bus. Parents will need to collect boys from Middle Head Oval by 4:30pm. There will be no bus back to School at the conclusion of training. Boys taking part will need to come along to training dressed in their PE uniform (navy blue polo), winter sports socks, boots and mouthguard. The School tracksuit should be worn for warmth. If you would like your son to take part, please let me know by email sriddett@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au by the end of the first week of Term 1, Friday 26 July.

Steve Riddett | Director of Sport

Congratulations to the below boys who have been selected in the 2024 Athletics Squad. The boys are set to represent MCEPS in one or more of the following inter-school athletics carnivals next term. Squad training will begin next term before school.

• Barker Invitational Athletics Carnival- Date TBC
• Shore Invitational Athletics Carnival- Date TBC
• IPSHA Athletics Carnival- Wednesday 28 August

Steve Riddett | Director of Sport

Mosman Village Church is holding our Village Kids Holiday Club again this holidays.

Details: Olympic Gold: Kids Holiday Club for K-6
Date: Monday 22 July 
Time: 9:00am-3:00pm
Includes: Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are fully provided.
Cost: $25 per child

The Paris Olympics are just around the corner and so Mosman Village Church are celebrating with a very special Olympic themed Village Kids Holiday Club on 22 July 2024 (pupil-free day).

Your child will enjoy a fun-filled and imaginative day of Olympic inspired activities, games, crafts and stories from the Bible. We have a great program that every child will enjoy.

Register online at: Link - Mosman Village Church Holidays

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.