With Week 8 behind us, we take one step closer to an extended break, before the final term of Year 11 for the Class of 2021. In terms of academics, there was a smattering of tasks on the agenda, with English being the common assessment and very much at the forefront of our boys’ mind. From all accounts this went well, and with Agriculture, PDHPE, Industrial Tech., Photography and Drama coming up next week, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

The boys changed up their morning routine on Monday, entering through a common doorway in the WSA with Year 12, streamlining the arrival process and utilising the thermal imaging technology to replace the manual temp check. Monday saw the long awaited return of our entire cohort to come together for a Year Meeting, which was fantastic. Boys were kept abreast of numerous developments, celebrated the successes of their peers in the NSW Young Lawyers Program, as well as reminded about the last possible train to catch to ensure that they are on time. Armed with this information, we are looking for an improvement in punctuality from a select few. 

The Study, Stress and Motivation Workshop took place on Monday and was highly regarded, with Year 11 making up the majority of those in attendance. It is taking place again next Monday 22 June, and boys are once again encouraged to get along to it, with a number of boys already registering their interest. Procrastination is the topic next week.

This week, the boys were given an opportunity to work with their mentors to plan the upcoming break, ensuring a sustainable ratio of meaningful academia with plenty of down time and moments with family and friends. They will build upon this next week, which should leave them in good stead for the holidays.

Have a brilliant weekend, and be sure to contact your son’s teachers, mentors or Team Leaders if you have any questions or concerns about your son’s progress. 

Adam Shaw

At Year Meeting on Monday we distributed the Term 2 Study Break Planner. This is also available on the Y11 page on the Knox portal under the Academic tab. I also have spare printed copies with me in the office.

Next week is the final week for Term 2. Please note that Term 3 commences on Monday 20 July not Tuesday 21 July as previously published. Students are reminded they are now required to wear full school uniform including boater and blazer and have their Knox school bag. Full access to lockers is now available.

Next week is the final week for the boys to try on the sample jerseys to know the correct size to order. Students can come and see me at recess and lunchtime all next week.

Debra Barnard

With just one week left of Term 2, our focus now turns to some well-earned rest, family time and, of course, a plan that will ensure some productive study time over the three week break. The boys were given a A3 Study Planner on Tuesday. We have discussed with them how they best use the planner to ensure they do not down tools over the break and ensure they return for their final term of Year 11 that includes their Preliminary Yearly Exams from Week 7. The template will also be emailed to the boys, linked to this newsletter and on the Knox portal.

We have reinforced the importance of on-going and consistent revision and study, formulated around a study plan. The boys need to ensure they have a good balance and to keep exercising and maintaining a healthy diet and sleep regime. Seniors’ Hall will be open over the three-week period from 8am-4pm. The Academic Coaches will also be available throughout this time from 10am-1pm. This final week of term is a good opportunity for the boys to develop their planner, engage with their teachers, find out what they should be doing and ensure they allow for some contact with the Academic Coaches over the study break.

Andrew Weeding and Greg Nunan

With most co-curricular activities now concluded for Term 2 (clubs to continue in Week 9), please be advised that the Term 3 co-curricular program will be published in the Week 9 newsletters.

Chuck Ardron

Monday 22 June 

• Student Stress Management for Years 11 and 12 - Session 2. WSA Lecture Theatre. 3.30pm - 4.30pm.

Friday 26 June 

• PEAK Application due

• Term 2 concludes 

Monday 20 July 

• Term 3 commences (please note change of date) 

Friday 31 July 

• Deadline to submit Y12 2021 Jersey Order Form

We would like to invite students who have competed at the state/national level to apply to join the PEAK program for the 2020 intake. We understand that COVID-19 may have impacted some state/national championships, so PEAK eligibility criteria has been extended to include the last 12 months, or the last state/national championship event that was run.

What is PEAK? PEAK is in its second year of operation and is designed to support high-performing student-athletes who aspire to have a career in elite sport. We aim to develop healthy, resilient and capable students by supporting the holistic well being of each individual, whilst assisting them to achieve their academic and sporting potential. The PEAK program includes:

• One on one mentoring with Knox high performance coaches, including the development of an Individual Performance Plan (IPP) 

• Keynote speakers focusing on the Knox Total Fitness pillars, including:

• Academic Fitness – covering themes such as time management, goal-setting and habits for academic success 

• Physical Fitness – covering effective nutritional practices for athletes, sleep for recovery and effective rehab/prehab

• Spiritual Fitness (Personal Development) – covering communication, mental preparation and leadership

• Social/Emotional Fitness – covering resilience, performing under pressure and respect and responsibility

• Small group workshops to further enhance each student-athlete’s skills and learning capabilities

Please visit the Knox website for more information about the PEAK program. To apply, please complete the application form. Applications close Friday 26 June (last day of Term 2). Successful applicants will be notified before school resumes for Term 3. If you have any questions, please feel free to email us.

School holiday sports training for Senior School
Following on from the Headmaster's announcements last week that CAS Winter Sport will start in Term 3, please note the training schedule for the coming holidays can now be found on the Knox app. We are mindful it is holiday time and a valuable time with family, however if your boy(s) are available we would love to give them the opportunity to best prepare for the winter season.

As always, if there are any questions regarding the schedule, please do not hesitate to email the Knox Sports and Aquatic Academy or directly with your son’s chosen sport.

The Knox Sports and Aquatic Academy will also have more information prior to the holidays regarding exactly how a day at each facility will look for players, staff and spectators on game day. This is being put together following government guidelines and the School policy regarding providing a COVID-19 safe environment for all.

Martin Haywood

The following Year 11 students participated in the Law Society of NSW Young Lawyers Program with the resulting places:

• Jeremy Huang 4th
• Nick Shannon 5th
• Campbell Wilson 6th
• Daniel Heazlewood-Lee 11th
• Anton Pan-Cassin 14th
• James Sung 20th

Congratulations to you all on your outstanding achievement.

Training has resumed and today some Year 12 students along with Asha Nayer from Year 11 played some great music to welcome the students through Borambil gates.