Junior School Parent and Teacher Nights (K-6)

Wednesday 22 April 3pm - 7pm

Tuesday 28 April 3pm - 6pm

Secondary School Parent and Teacher Nights (Years 7-11)

Thursday 30 April 3pm - 8.30pm

Tuesday 5 May 3pm - 8.30pm

This year we have switched to using Compass to book meetings with teachers and they will appear under ‘Conferences’ in the App and on the website.

Junior School parents have received their invite to make bookings, Secondary School parents will receive their invitation to book on the first Monday of Term 2, 20 April.

Mr Paul Carter
Deputy Principal

There is a large rock shelf that will be broken up during the holidays. Most jack hammering to break up the rock will occur in the holidays which will mean less impact during school days.

Mr Paul Carter
Deputy Principal

One thing that we have recently reflected upon is the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools, or ICAS, which has traditionally been opt-in for some students. Whilst we recognise that receiving a certificate as a result of answering online questions designed to “test students’ higher-order thinking skills” can be an exciting achievement, there are many other ways and opportunities we would like to explore that better align with our Learning for Life Domains and Dispositions, whilst still maintaining our focus on learning (including academic challenge, enrichment and rigour).

Some of these opportunities in Term 1 were the Anastasia musical (various roles and responsibilities), Chess Club, LEGO Robotics, Da Vinci Decathlon, the Wordsmiths weekly post, the Visual Arts Competition, Premier’s Reading Challenge, Debating, and CRU (many of these run in both the Junior and Secondary Schools). Each of these opportunities isn't just a “sit a test once” type of experience, but an opportunity for students to grow, often engaging with other students and teachers in the process. This means accessing the deepest level of learning, our attitudes and dispositions (see image below from Claxton 2017), and allowing students to engage with more challenging tasks over time. We can learn together and see how God uses these skills and knowledge to deepen our understanding of His purpose for us and our lives. We are also looking into ways to combine these Learning Dispositions with acts of service. So, for now, we will take a rest from ICAS as we seek out other opportunities. We will ensure the information for these is distributed in a timely manner through the Newsletter, Compass Announcements, and also via the Challenge Hub at school (physical noticeboards in both libraries and their respective Google Classrooms).

Mrs Rachel Robinson
Academic Head

Steve emphasised the importance of basing all talks on the Bible and spending time in prayer to focus on what God was placing on their heart to say. There are a large number of students from our Class of 2025 in the Year 13 program and Steve is looking forward to being the speaker at the Year 12 camp this year.

Mr David Collins
Head of Secondary

On Tuesday afternoons there will be a focus on assisting students with Mathematics, and on Thursday afternoons there will be similar focus on English. While students will be able to study in any area of their school learning when they are at After School Study Centre, there will be a teacher and several students who have expertise in the focus area for the afternoon.

Students will be able to sign up for these afternoons early next term. The decision to start the program in Week 4 is due to school camps (Week 1) and parent teacher interviews (Week 2 and 3). There will be 30 places available each afternoon and these places will initially be available for students in Year 12 and 11 first. When a student signs up for the program they will be expected to attend each week, and students with frequent absences will have their position offered to other students.

Mr David Collins
Head of Secondary

I pray that all of our students and families will have the chance to refresh and unwind over the Easter break as we look forward to an exciting Term 2.

Mr David Collins
Head of Secondary

This week in Junior School, we’ve been exploring the theme of forgiveness . We’ve been encouraging students to consider that Jesus’ work on the cross is the only way we can be forgiven, and it is the only way we can extend forgiveness to others. (Eph 4:32). My prayer is that our students will continue to be transformed and renewed, growing each week to reflect our risen Saviour (Romans 12:2).

Mrs Ruth Cooper
Head of Junior School

I would like to warmly commend the March edition of Nurture magazine to you. Nurture is a magazine for Christian school parents, which seeks “to challenge all parents to a deeper scriptural understanding of raising and educating their children”. Subscriptions are available for $34 a year from the CEN eStore . The March edition is filled with insightful articles aimed at strengthening parent partnership, offering practical tips for engaging meaningfully in your child’s education, and fostering trust, collaboration, and mutual respect between parents and teachers. Parental partnership is at the heart of our school community and helps cultivate an environment where students feel valued, safe, and ready to learn.

Mrs Ruth Cooper
Head of Junior School

In the event of hot weather, 26 degrees or above, please refer to our hot weather policy found on our parent portal .  All uniform details can be found on our school website here .

Wishing all of our students and families a refreshing and blessed Easter break. As we pause, we reflect on the great hope we have in our risen Saviour, and the joy and peace that comes through Him.

Thank you to Mrs Wilson and Mr Hillier for their invaluable support (especially setting up the IT) and professional guidance throughout this journey. This experience has been instrumental in refining my public speaking and critical thinking skills—assets I will cherish throughout my academic career. As Proverbs 18:13 reminds us, "To answer before listening—that is folly and shame." This competition has reinforced the vital importance of active listening, careful consideration, and the value of respectful, intellectual discourse.

Written by Declan (on behalf of the Year 8 Debaters: Charlotte, Matthew, Kingston, Joshua, Miles and Hunter)

The CEN Debating Gala Day 2026 was a great experience for me and the rest of the Shire Debaters. I felt so honoured to be debating with such intelligent and experienced teammates like the ones I was placed with. We really began to thrive through the challenges as the day went on. I’m already looking forward to my next debate! One of my favourite parts in the debates was rebutting and looking for flaws in the speeches of the other teams which we faced. I also really enjoyed socialising with other members of the Shire Debaters by playing cards and talking together.

Written by Axel (on behalf of the Year 7 Debaters: Lincoln, Adelaide and Esther).

News just in! All three Secondary Debating Teams have just completed the first round of the HICES Debating Competition. They had thoroughly prepared for these and put into practise all of their learnings from the CEN Gala Day. All three teams won their debates and we look forward to what's ahead in the second round in Term 2.

Mrs Rachel Robinson
Academic Head

Recently, in term one, the children were watching a 'movie being made'. It was a movie about a Captain and his ship. The captain explains his rules to the crew but unfortunately he kept getting them wrong, like saying “Obey when you feel like it!” The film director, Pierre shouted “CUT!” They talked about what the correct rules should be, then started filming again after he called out “STOP, THINK then take ACTION!” During all the action on the 'high seas', a treasure chest was found, a sail ripped, an exciting wrestle happened between the captain and a crocodile, and a golden bookmark was given to all the children!

Coincidentally we realised that the rules of the ship were the same as the Rainbow Reminders of our school!

SocS was once again a fun way to reinforce our school rules so the children understand them and see their value. A huge thank you to our amazing actors this term, Mrs Sciacca, Seriyah Hardie, Wesley Wadds and Luke Fahad.

Mrs Diana Moes
Teachers Aide - Junior School

They started with the alphabet and common greetings. They also learned how to say "What's the sign for....( spell the word )". This would already allow them to have a great conversation with an Auslan user. During the last Junior School morning assembly for this term, the group signed along with an announcement. They were very impressive!  Auslan Club will continue in term 2 and new members from Years 5 and 6 are welcome.

Mrs Diana Moes
Teachers Aide - Junior School

As a class we even did an experiment to see water walking!  The highlight was Colour Day when the children came to school dressed in their favourite colour and joined in a range of special activities including making rainbow jelly, sand art, scratch back bookmarks and creating a crazy critter!  After the jelly dessert, the children enjoyed a fun dance party.

Some comments on Colour Day:

Sophia: "I liked to dress up in pink."

Brooklyn: "I liked doing the scarf dance."

Mercy: "I wore pink because it's my favourite colour. I liked the bookmarks."

Leo: "I liked the disco party! I wore red. It's my favourite colour."

Jeremiah: "It was fun making the jelly. It tasted yum."

Mrs Suzanne Ishak
Prep 2 Teacher

The trip focused on three distinct pillars: the excellence of ARTEXPRESS, the interactive wonder of The Key is Under the Mat , and the rich heritage of Australian Art.

The highlight for many was ARTEXPRESS, the annual showcase of outstanding HSC Visual Arts works. Walking through the Naala Badu building, students saw firsthand what is possible with dedication. From intricate photomedia to large-scale paintings, the exhibition provided a tangible goal for their own creative journeys.

In a radical departure from traditional gallery rules, students descended into the Tank for Mike Hewson’s installation, The Key is Under the Mat . This "underground art park" transformed the subterranean space into a sprawling, anarchic playground of salvaged materials and social sculptures. Students engaged with relational aesthetics, learning that art can be something you inhabit and influence rather than just observe.

Finally, students explored the Yiribana Gallery, investigating how Australian Art documents history and shapes national identity. By examining Australian interiors paintings, students explored the materials and techniques of well known artworks. Back in the artroom, Year 9 is now channeling this inspiration into their own practical works, ready to spark a new wave of creativity.

Miss Susie Yock
Head of Visual Arts

After a competitive season in the inter-schools competition against Inaburra and St George, this win was built on the team’s ability to hold their composure under pressure, work together consistently and give their best effort in every game. The discipline and unity shown throughout the season were clearly evident on Grand Final day, and it was wonderful to see these qualities rewarded.

The team represented Shire Christian School with pride, not only on the court but also in the way they supported one another and approached each challenge with resilience and respect. These experiences provide valuable opportunities for students to grow in confidence, character and teamwork.

A sincere thank you goes to Mrs Henderson, who has loved coaching the team this term and supporting the girls throughout the season. Her encouragement and leadership have played an important role in the team’s success.

Well done to all players on a memorable season. We hope you have enjoyed this experience and the friendships, learning and achievements that came with it.

Mr Troy Dixon
Head of Sport

From the first whistle, our attackers were on fire – the goals started flowing in no time! Our engine room in the midfield worked tirelessly, controlling possession, linking passes, and directing play with confidence. Meanwhile, our mighty backline stood strong, refusing to let anything through.

A special shoutout to our keeper, who stayed switched on all game, even if she didn’t have much to do!

The skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship on display were an absolute delight to watch. We couldn’t be prouder of how the girls conducted themselves both on and off the pitch.

On to Round 2!

Mrs Leanne Dipple
Coach

Shire Christian School started off the game strongly, through confidence and determination they scored two early goals to take control. Woolooware responded with a sneaky goal of their own, but Shire was able to extend the lead before halftime with a penalty, going into the break up 3–1.

In the second half, Shire Christian continued to build momentum, demonstrating crisp passes, excellent teamwork and consistent scoring opportunities, adding two more goals to the scoreboard. Although Woolooware managed to score a late consolation goal, Shire maintained their intensity and finished the game with a solid 5–2 victory.

It was an outstanding performance from the team, who showed resilience, skill, and unity throughout the match. This result was even more impressive since it was their first time playing together, and the players should be very proud of their efforts.

We really appreciate the support from our families and friends who came out to cheer us on. The team now looks forward to their next Bill Turner knockout game early next term.

Mr Troy Dixon
Head of Sport

Congratulations to all three students on their achievements.

A special mention goes to Willow, who placed second in both of her events. She will now go on to represent Shire and CIS at the NSW All Schools Swimming Carnival on April 24. Congratulations, Willow, and best of luck!

Miss Ashleigh Hackfath
Junior School Sports Coordinator

As a result of their strong performances, five swimmers have qualified for the NSW CIS Secondary State Swimming Championships:

The CIS Championships will be held on Monday 4 May and Tuesday 5 May.

Throughout the carnival, students demonstrated determination, resilience and excellent sportsmanship. It was encouraging to see them striving for their personal best while supporting and celebrating one another, reflecting the strong sense of community and pride that characterises our school.

The Championships marked an important milestone in the competitive swimming pathway, and it was a pleasure to see such commitment and teamwork on display across the day.

We congratulate all students involved on their efforts and achievements and wish our qualifying swimmers every success as they progress to the CIS Championships in Term 2.

It was encouraging to see such strong participation and enthusiasm, with many students proudly wearing their House jerseys to support and raise funds for Compassion. The carnival atmosphere reflected both healthy competition and a shared sense of generosity and community.

Congratulations to the top four competitors in each age group, who have now qualified to progress to the CSSA State Cross Country on Friday 29 May. At the CSSA State event, the highest‑placing runner in each age division will be awarded Age Champion. Further information for families will be communicated via Compass early next term.

House spirit was on full display throughout the day, with Luther taking the overall win, followed by Knox, Cranmer and Calvin. Well done to all Houses for their encouragement and sportsmanship.

Thank you once again to everyone involved for contributing to a successful carnival. It was wonderful to see students striving for their best, supporting one another and representing Shire Christian School with pride.

Mr Troy Dixon
Head of Sport

I know. It’s hard. You’re busy. The kids wake up at night and interrupt your sleep. And plenty more. I've heard every version of this pushback, and yes, there are a million legitimate reasons parents are sleep-deprived—shift work, babies who think 3am is party time, medical issues, anxiety, insomnia.

There are also some less legitimate reasons: an intense interest in a show and the belief that “one more episode” won’t hurt, revenge bedtime procrastination (where you try to stay up late to eek out the downtime you missed during the day), the “productive night-owl” illusion, and simple doom-scrolling.

But here's what's irrefutable: sleep makes you a better parent . Not a bit better. Measurably, significantly better. (And sleep also helps your kids do better.)

What the Science Says

A 2019 study of 314 mothers found that parents with shorter, later, and more irregular sleep showed observably less positive parenting - even after controlling for their stress levels.

A 2024 meta-analysis of 154 studies found all forms of sleep loss reduce positive emotions, increase anxiety, and impair emotional regulation - exactly the skills we need most as parents.

Another 2024 study of 44,000 participants found poor sleep correlates with more couple conflict and less partner responsiveness.

You already know this. It's hard to be a good parent or partner when you're running on empty.

The Sleep-Deprived Parent's Playbook

Improving sleep hygiene - for everyone in the family - is my ultimate parenting hack. I know this because, recently I was sleep deprived… and I was not the parenting expert I’m supposed to be. I was a mess. I was quick to lose my temper. And the whole family suffered for it - as did I.

When you're better rested, you're better equipped to help your kids navigate life. And you’re better equipped to navigate life for yourself too.

This is your playbook for getting enough sleep: and note, these tips work for the whole family.

1. Lock in your wake time. Wake up at the same time every day, even weekends. Your circadian rhythm responds better to a consistent wake time than bedtime. This is non-negotiable. It sets your brain’s “sleep clock”, and ensures that you start releasing those sleepy brain chemicals at the right time each night. Waking up late is like giving yourself jet-lag.

2. Screen curfew: one hour minimum. No phones, tablets, or TV for at least an hour before bed. They stimulate your brain. They get you thinking. They pull you in and keep you awake. Games, social media, and even movies are impacting your sleep timing and your sleep quality.

And if you wake in the middle of the night (because you need the bathroom or because the baby is crying), resist the urge to look at the clock (your phone) because you’ll end up doing the late night scroll.

3. Optimise bedrooms. Sleep happens best in a cool, dark, quiet place. Bedrooms should feel like caves, not living spaces.

4. Build sleep pressure during the day. The brain has a counter in it that starts when you wake up. About 14 hours later, it starts releasing hormones and chemicals to slow you down and put you to sleep. Stay out of the way of those chemicals and allow them to build by getting plenty of nature (or at least some green space), physical activity, and minimising screens. The body knows what to do. We just have to avoid interfering.

5. Strategic napping only. No naps after 2:30pm - they kill nighttime sleep drive. If you or the kids must nap, keep it under 60 minutes and early in the day. (Obviously this time limit doesn’t apply to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. But the late afternoon cutoff is for everyone!)

6. Caffeine cutoff: 2pm. Caffeine has a half-life of 5-6 hours. That 3pm coffee is still in your system at 9pm. Switch to decaf after lunch - or better yet, water.

7. Wind-down routine. 15-30 minutes of calm activity signals to your brain that it's time to sleep. Reading, gentle stretching, or a warm shower all work. Make it consistent - for you and the kids.

The Bottom Line

Getting enough rest isn't just a dream - it's the foundation of not losing your sheet with the kids. Start with one change tonight. Pick the easiest win. Your family will notice the difference before you do.

Firstly, our greatest enemy is Satan , and his most powerful weapon is death .  Both he , and his weapon , were soundly defeated at the very first ‘Easter’. The ironical thing is that Satan’s defeat at the Cross , and the Empty Tomb , were achieved by getting Satan to do what he does best - ‘shooting himself through the foot’! I think this is why God wrote Psalm 2 for our comfort and encouragement: “Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?  The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the LORD and against his anointed (‘Messiah’/‘Christ’), saying, ‘Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.’ The One enthroned in heaven laughs ; the Lord scoffs at them.  He rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying, ‘ I have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain.” (verses 1-6).

Unwittingly, Satan’s ‘cunning’ conspiring to have Jesus betrayed by a friend and executed by crucifixion played straight into God’s sovereign hands. God had already decreed in this Word that this would happen (Psalm 22, Psalm 41:9 and Isaiah 53 are clear examples, although the whole OT is replete with such references). Jesus’ death was for our sins , and therefore, because Jesus died, our sins are ‘removed from us’ and Satan no longer has any hold over us at all. “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” (1 Peter 3:18).

Unaware of his defeat at this stage, Satan then conspired to have Jesus’ buried in a tomb carved out of solid rock with another solid roch rolled over the entrance to make sure that the loyal supporters of Jesus didn’t do a bit of ‘fast footwork’ and steal the body and try to make out this imposter hadn’t really died. As it turned out, as always, this ‘sealing’ of the tomb is what finally sealed Satan’s doom. “Thine be the glory, risen, conquering Son, endless is the victory thou o’er death hast won; angels in bright raiment rolled the stone away, kept the folded grave-clothes where thy body lay. Thine be the glory, risen, conquering Son, endless is the victory thou o’er death hast won.” (Edward Louis Budry).

I wish everyone a safe, restful, peaceful and fruitful Easter holy-day break.

With my love and prayers,
Rev Bruce Christian

If the required notice period is not provided, a withdrawal fee equivalent to one quarter of the child’s annual tuition will be charged, as outlined in the enrolment agreement.

We recognise that students who leave Shire Christian often do so for positive and amicable reasons, such as relocating, commencing an apprenticeship or pursuing other opportunities. However, timely notice is essential to the ongoing financial sustainability of the school.

Government funding is calculated on an annual census date in August and is based on student enrolment numbers at that time. Funding for the entire year is allocated according to this figure. When students depart without adequate notice and the school isn't given time to fill vacant places, both government funding and fee income is reduced, placing significant and unexpected pressure on the school’s operating budget.

Providing sufficient notice allows the school to plan responsibly, steward resources wisely and continue to offer the high‑quality Christian education and care our community values.

Thank you for your understanding and partnership.

Families can set up an account online or via the app using the instructions provided . Please set up a profile for each child to help us distribute the food.

Orders can be placed up until 8am on the day of delivery, an added convenience for families, now able to decide at the last minute to order lunch for their children. This time will be reviewed and adjusted if demand requires, and parents will be notified in advance by email.

While limited snacks are available on the School Fuel menu, parents should be aware that with delivery later in the day to keep the food fresh, snacks should still be provided for Break 1.

Junior School students will have their orders brought to their classroom. Secondary School students can collect their order during Break 2 (12:27pm) in the Year 12 area outside Student Services. Secondary students are responsible for collecting their orders from this location.

We hope this arrangement will provide a healthy convenient option for our families.