The first area to be improved in the coming three weeks is the Secondary Area known as Area G. This is the grass area situated at the back of the school near Music. We are installing seating areas, a mini amphitheatre and play equipment suitable for secondary students.

The second area being renovated during the coming school holidays is the K-2 area. We are installing new play equipment, new shade, new seating, renewing playing surfaces and improving the sandpit.

Rejuvenating these areas will give our students more opportunities to be active, engaged, challenged and to explore.

Mr Paul Carter
Deputy Principal

In our discussions, we had to think about whether learning actually takes place if there is no struggle. If you could already do something with ease, did you gain new knowledge or merely go through the motions? When we're in the Learning Pit, we are vulnerable. In this vulnerability, we open our hearts and minds to change and new possibilities.

In Philippians 4:11, we read of Paul sharing that he has learned to be content whatever the circumstance or situation. The secret of this is that he anchored himself (and all his desires) in Christ Jesus.

Michelle Myers (2026) in her blog “She Works His Way” notes that:
“Gratitude says I see what I have.
Contentment says what I have is enough.”

Fundamental to Learning for Life at Shire, is our Hope in Christ, sitting in the tension of both being and becoming as Christ shapes us. When our gaze is vertical and not horizontal, we can experience joy and contentment. This joy is available to us in both the learning process and experiences, and contentment beyond our imaginations.

Let’s pray for opportunities for God to show us true joy and contentment this week.

Mrs Rachel Robinson
Academic Head

In an uncertain world, only God can truly satisfy the deep longing for hope found in every human heart. This week, we’ve continued exploring what it means to have Hope in Christ, focusing on our Be of the week: Be full of hope and don’t give up. Our hope, motivation and perseverance are not self-made but are deeply rooted and sustained by God as we are reminded in Romans 15:13.

We kindly remind parents that students are not permitted onto the climbing equipment near the side oval, into our Bush areas or the surrounding school grounds out of school hours. This is in place to ensure appropriate supervision and uphold our school’s duty of care. The students have been reminded about this as well. Thank you for your support and understanding.

What a wonderful way to end the week as we came together during Break 1 to participate in National Simultaneous Storytime. This year we enjoyed Luna Roo, written by Adam Wallace and illustrated by Christopher Nielsen. We were delighted to have our Year 9 students bring the story to life through a dramatic performance, while the story was enthusiastically narrated by our very own Mrs Walker. It was a joyful celebration of reading and imagination, and we are so thankful to everyone who helped make this experience so memorable for our students.

As you are aware, Merit cards are awarded across the school, as one of our means to celebrate your child’s learning journey. As students accrue three merit awards in the same category, they bring these to be presented to their Stage Coordinator. This is a wonderful opportunity for a personal, one-to-one positive conversation of encouragement. Parents then receive an email informing you of when this will be awarded at our Friday morning assembly. If this day is not suitable, please let your child’s classroom teacher know to see if we can accommodate another week.

Mrs Ruth Cooper
Head of Junior School

The visit provided an opportunity for the team to see their products in a real classroom setting and gather feedback from staff and students, supporting both ongoing program innovation and future product development.

Junior School Learning Enrichment Coordinator Mrs Leonie Hampson said the visit was a valuable opportunity to share insights and showcase student learning.

“The students proudly showcased their creative and innovative robotic designs, demonstrating both their engineering skills and coding expertise.

“It was exciting to share our approach and provide feedback for the LEGO Education team to take back with them.”

Students from across the school demonstrated how they are engaging with robotics and problem‑solving, reflecting Shire Christian School’s commitment to equipping students with skills for the future.

For many students, this was their first visit to the Art Gallery of NSW, making the experience even more memorable. The day was filled with fun, excitement and discovery as students engaged with artworks firsthand, discussed artistic ideas, and gathered inspiration for their own artmaking practice.

The excursion was a valuable opportunity for students to broaden their understanding of contemporary and historical art while experiencing one of Australia's leading cultural institutions.

Mrs Annika Hackfath
Visual Arts Teacher

Earlier this month, I attended a Stolen Generations event where I was given a tree and encouraged to plant it somewhere meaningful in my life. I chose our school because it is a place of great significance to me, and I wanted to share this experience with my Year 11 German students.

Together, we planted the tree and reflected on the importance of reconciliation, justice, and walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The tree came with a card bearing the words, "From little things big things grow." This simple but powerful message reminds us that meaningful change often begins with small actions, acts of respect, understanding and commitment.

As the tree grows in the years ahead, we hope it will serve as a living reminder of our commitment to reconciliation and of our responsibility to be allies to our Indigenous brothers and sisters. May it encourage future generations of students to seek understanding, promote justice, and contribute to a more reconciled Australia.

We pray that God will use this tree as a symbol of hope and growth, inspiring our school community to continue building respectful relationships and working towards justice in the lands now called Australia.

Frau McWhirter

Teams are encouraged to fundraise during the competition, with entry fees and all money raised going directly to The Kids’ Cancer Project to support vital childhood cancer research. Every book submitted will also be made available for free to kids in hospitals around Australia.

Throughout the tournament, the team consistently dominated possession, moved the ball with purpose and created numerous attacking opportunities. Their persistence and determination paid off with commanding victories across the day. More importantly, the girls demonstrated exceptional teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship, representing our school with pride.

A key feature of the team's success was their outstanding defensive record. The entire backline worked tirelessly, communicating effectively, winning crucial challenges and limiting opposition opportunities. Conceding just one goal throughout the entire tournament is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the defensive unit and goalkeepers.

Equally impressive was the team's attacking prowess. The girls found the back of the net an incredible 26 times across the day, showcasing both flair and precision in front of goal. Some goals came from stunning long-range strikes, while others were the result of excellent build-up play, clever movement and composed finishing inside the box.

Our midfielders were the engine room of the team, covering enormous ground, applying relentless pressure and consistently being first to the ball. Their work rate and determination allowed the team to control matches and transition seamlessly between defence and attack.

The Grand Final saw the team produce their best football of the tournament. Facing a quality opponent in Inaburra, the girls delivered a clinical performance, securing a convincing 4–0 victory to be crowned South Met Zone Champions.

What was most pleasing was the way every squad member contributed to the team's success. The girls worked superbly together, trusting one another, supporting each other and utilising the strengths of every player on the field. It was a true team performance from start to finish.

The girls now look ahead with great anticipation and excitement as they prepare to represent South Met at the State Championships.

Congratulations to all players on an outstanding achievement and for earning your place at the State Titles.

Mrs Emma Hamilton
Coach

After a strong start in which they controlled much of the play, the girls created multiple scoring opportunities but were initially unable to convert. Their patience and persistence paid off as the match progressed, with the goals beginning to flow.

The team delivered an outstanding all-round performance to seal the convincing win and book their place in the final.

We were once again incredibly proud of the way the girls represented Shire Christian School, demonstrating not only excellent football skill but also outstanding sportsmanship throughout the game.

We now look forward to the CIS Plate Cup Final against MLC School in two weeks’ time and wish the team all the best as they prepare for the big occasion.

Mr Stewart Holden and Mrs Leanne Dipple

A sincere thank you to our House Captains for leading enthusiastic house chants, our parent volunteers for generously giving their time and our staff for their hard work in ensuring the day was such a success.

Congratulations to Luther House, which claimed the overall championship by a narrow margin of 12 points.

A special mention must go to our record breakers, whose outstanding performances set a new benchmark for future carnivals. Congratulations to Evie, who broke the 11 Years Girls records in both the 800m and 1500m events; Giovanni, who set a new record in the 9 Years Boys 200m; Khadijah, who broke the 8 Years Girls 200m record; and Valentina, who achieved a new record in the 8–10 Years Girls Discus. These remarkable achievements were certainly a highlight of the day and demonstrated the talent, dedication and determination of our students.

Age Champion trophies will be presented at our End of Term Assembly. Athletics ribbons will be distributed shortly, and families will receive an email if their child is receiving an award.

Miss Ashleigh Hackfath
Junior School Sports Coordinator

Congratulations to all students who participated and thank you to the staff, families and supporters who helped make the day possible.

We also celebrated some impressive individual and team results:

Well done for top 10 placings to secondary students: Harper, Dylan, Layla, Sam, Will, Adalyn and Paul

We wish our qualifying runners all the best and can't wait to cheer them on at the CIS Championships on Thursday, 25 June.

Miss Ashleigh Hackfath
Junior School Sport Coordinator

Mr Troy Dixon
Secondary Sport Coordinator

Everything clicked perfectly in the first half as our outstanding teamwork and precise passing completely blew them away, earning us a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime. Unfortunately, Jannali made a massive second half come-back scoring twice, before a heartbreaking twist saw them score the equaliser in the last 30 seconds of the match. This forced the match into extra time under the high-stakes golden goal rule. Jannali ultimately executed a clinical play to secure the 4-3 win.

Despite the painful result, I am incredibly proud of how well we played together and the passion our team demonstrated.

Jemima Bailey
Captain

A special thank you to Mrs Holdsworth and Mr Moran for their leadership of the Year 12 activities, helping to create lasting memories for our graduating students.

The competitive spirit was equally evident, with numerous records broken across the day. This is a testament to the commitment and effort of our students in their participation. Final results and a summary of performances will be shared in the weekly sports update on Monday afternoon.

Mr Troy Dixon
Secondary Sport Coordinator

Friendships are at the very heart of our wellbeing - or our distress. The quality of our relationships is core to our happiness. Researchers have found that “ school belonging ” is a predictor of everything from grades to life satisfaction - even a decade after school has ended . Academic achievement, self-concept, behaviour, and thinking all improve when kids feel they “belong”. And they’re less likely to drop out of school (or have sick days). Friendships are core to that sense of belonging.

If friendship and belonging matter so much, why are they such ongoing sources of challenge for children and the adults who try to support them?

During the 1980s, influential British social psychologist Michael Argyle, and his collaborator, Monika Henderson, conducted a series of studies on what makes a friendship flourish or fail. They identified six rules essential for maintaining a stable relationship. These were:

1. Standing up for the friend in their absence

Loyalty is a powerful relationship builder. We teach this (at any age, including for those of us over 18) by explaining that it means not laughing along when someone makes fun of your mate, and not staying silent when gossip is spreading.

A child who says “Actually, that's not fair, she wasn't even there” is being a friend - and the courage and loyalty it requires is what builds a strong friendship. Teach kids that real friendship happens when the person isn’t in the room.

2. Sharing important news with the friend

Friends keep each other in the loop. If your child hears that the whole group is going to the movies and someone is being left out, they’ll stand up for their friend, encourage others to include them, and make sure they include them in things.

Good friends share. They don’t share everything, but they do share the things that matter. And they also know what not to share. (Like: “everyone was talking about you at lunch today and said you have stinky breath.”) Encourage your child to think: Would I want to know this if the roles were reversed?

3. Providing emotional support when it's needed

This doesn't require a twelve-year-old to become a therapist. It mostly just means showing up. Providing emotional support isn’t knowing how to “emotion coach”. It’s sitting with a friend who's had a rough day, texting to check in after something hard happened, and not brushing it off with "you'll be fine" or changing the subject to talk about “me”.

Kids who learn to notice when someone's not okay - and know how to say something caring and kind - are building friendships that last.

4. Trusting and confiding in each other

Friendship deepens when people share something real about themselves. That feels risky, and for a lot of kids it is. Vulnerability leaves you open to being hurt, but it’s also the key that unlocks deeper commitment and relationship.

If your child tells you a friend shared something personal, help them understand that holding that confidence is one of the most important things a friend can do. Breaking it is one of the fastest ways to destroy a friendship.

5. Volunteering help when it's required

The key word here is volunteering rather than waiting to be asked. A good friend notices when someone is struggling and offers before being prompted. A child who sees a classmate trying to carry too many things and just picks some up, or who asks “do you want help with that?” without being told to, is practising one of friendship's core skills.

6. Making an effort to make the other person happy

This is about small, intentional kindness. Remembering a friend's birthday. Saving them a seat. Saying “I thought of you when I saw this.” Children who grow up understanding that friendships require active maintenance are far better equipped to keep them.

None of this is complicated, but none of it is automatic either. Children don't arrive knowing how to be good friends. They learn it, mostly by watching the adults around them, and occasionally by being taught directly.

The good news is that the rules Argyle and Henderson identified forty years ago are still the right ones. They haven't been disrupted by social media or complicated by AI or made obsolete by any generational shift. Loyalty, support, trust, and kindness are still what friendship runs on.

If your child is struggling socially, ask which of these six they're finding hardest and start there. Friendship is a skill. And like every other skill, it improves with practice and a little guidance from someone who cares.

Dr Justin Coulson

The Lord graciously answered my prayers and, partly because I am presently lacking the spiritual energy to produce a ‘Barnabas’ for this week, I thought that there may be some in our School Community who could be helped by my sermon in their own circumstances. You will just need to know that the deceased woman’s middle name was ‘Joy’, so her father and sisters wanted joy to be the theme of the funeral.  But for privacy purposes I will call her ‘Mary’, not her real name. The Bible readings chosen were Psalm 23 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.

This is what I said:

“On an occasion like this I want to talk about the hope that we have in the Lord Jesus Christ, and how this confident hope is reinforced for us in the two Bible passages that we read.

But first I just want to say something about ‘Mary’ herself.

We’ve come together today because we loved her so much, and she made such an impact on all our lives, and I think we have a lot to learn from her.

With her condition, a condition with which she was born, it isn’t easy, or perhaps even possible, for us to really understand her world.  Throughout her thirty-seven and a bit years among us she had a child-like trust and faith that, sadly, in our sophistication, we too easily grow out of.  Mary’s world was full of fantasy and playful, mischievous imagination that brought her much pleasure and she was happy to share that pleasure with us. The inflatable unicorn at the entrance to the Church today served such a purpose for Mary. In our sophistication we know that unicorns aren’t part of our real world, but this mythical creature brought Mary real comfort and friendship in her own world. And that’s OK.

But I want to share with you something that is part of our real world and that was a central part of Mary’s world too. The Apostle Paul wrote this concrete truth to the Churches in Galatia: “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22). When I read through this list of nine things, I think of Mary:

Love - whenever I met her, she always wanted a hug and was unashamed to express her feelings and emotions physically - often to her father’s embarrassment;

Joy - it is not surprising that this is her middle name, and it was an infectious joy - she brought a joy into the room that you could feel;

Peace - there was always a real peace about her childlike simplicity, her life and her thinking was never as complicated and unsettled as ours often is because we tend to over -think;

In the interests of time I will let you make your own connections between Mary and the the other six aspects of the fruit of the Spirit: Patience , Kindness , Goodness , Faithfulness , Gentleness and Self-Control - these are all Mary in a nutshell, and from now on whenever I read this verse I think I will think of Mary.

And Paul says that collectively these characteristics that shone from Mary’s life so clearly, are the ‘ fruit of the Spirit’. Mary might not have had the mental capacity to express her faith in God through the Lord Jesus Christ in the sophisticated way we might be able to, but Paul also wrote these words to the Church in Rome: “if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.” (Romans 8:11) - and the fruit we looked at proves that the Spirit of God lived in Mary.

Now let me say something about the two Bible passages:

Psalm 23 : The word translated as ‘the LORD’ in “The LORD is my Shepherd” is a very special Hebrew name for God that comes from the Hebrew for ‘I AM’ (see Exodus 3:14), and clearly points forward to Jesus.  Every time Jesus said ‘ I AM ’ he was claiming it for himself and so was very quickly accused of blasphemy.  See, for example, John 8:58 - ‘“Very truly I tell you,’ Jesus answered, ‘before Abraham was born, I am!’  At this, they picked up stones to stone him …”  Jesus said “ I AM the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep”.  So Psalm 23 is really saying, “The LORD Jesus is my Shepherd who lays down his life for me”.  David is pointing to Jesus who will one day come and “lay down his life for his sheep.”  That is why David can say confidently at the end of Psalm 23: “Surely your goodness and love/mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever .”

1 Thessalonians 4 : At the beginning of this letter, Paul was talking about the reputation the Thessalonians had. At the end of Chapter 1 he says: “They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead —Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.” It is on the basis of this faith they had in Jesus that he can say here in Chapter 4, “you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words.”

So we “do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope” because we know that the day will come when Mary and her late mother, and my late wife, Pat, who always had a real soft spot for beautiful Mary, will come hand-in-hand to meet us, unless, of course, we first go to be where they are!

Can I ask you, ‘Does this describe you?  Do you have this hope ?  Will you be there “When the roll is called up yonder”, because of your trust in Jesus and the evidence of the fruit of the Spirit in your life?’”

Rev Bruce Christian

If you can assist in hosting a student or would like more information, please contact VS Oceania Pty Ltd by email admin@vsoceania.com or phone 02 9889 4366 and fill out this form .

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.