In an ever-changing world, the focus of education is turning towards a holistic approach where schools are considering the social, physical and spiritual development of a child just as equal as the intellectual. With the many benefits associated with learning in natural environments, a key component of Knox Total Fitness is outdoor education.

Outdoor experiences engage our students in practical and active learning in natural settings beyond the school classroom. The benefits of high-quality outdoor experiences quickly become apparent when young people are given the opportunity to take part in risk-assessed, but not risk-free activities. As Roald Dahl once said, “The more risks you allow children to take, the better they learn to take care of themselves.”

The School’s outdoor program extends students out of their comfort zones, creating just enough challenge to ramp up their focus, creativity and communication skills, which in turn will help them to respond to life stress when unexpected things happen. More often than not, the experiences of camps and outdoor education are felt immediately, and have the tendency to resonate with students for years. Through outdoor education, our students develop a real sense of self, learn how to be resilient and self-reliant, while also learning how to live with others. Through spending time in nature, students have the chance to strive, relax, learn and grow, all in a less formal setting than a classroom.

Despite the range of positives that a school camp can provide, there may be some level of stress for a student in taking that leap towards the school camp experience. If this is the case, let your son talk about their worries and fears and possibly share your own experiences at camp and how you overcame your own challenges. You may also consider reaching out to our Psychology team who can help your son replace unhelpful thoughts and how to use other practical strategies to minimise their anxiety.

Camps are some of the most exciting, life-building experiences that a young person can have. If required, I encourage families to work with the School in preparing and supporting your son to de-bunk any apparent fears or worries that may be preventing him from attending camps this term and reaping the immense developmental benefits that outdoor education has to offer.

Scott James

The Class of 2021 are operating at pace as they successfully navigate their way through the multitude of tasks before them in Week 3. They are to be commended for the high standards being set in the WSA in relation to behaviour, interactions and uniform as this sends a strong message to the incoming Year 11 and ensures that the culture of high expectations is maintained in this outstanding facility. It is much more than the bricks and mortar that make Knox, it is the driving spirit of the students within that continue the heritage and demonstrate the values that are key to this school. 

The message of the boys striving towards their personal best has been blindingly evident this week as the WSA, drama theatres, classrooms and sporting fields are alight with the grit and determination displayed by each and every boy as they look to further their personal achievement in each and every situation. This drive and determination is something that the Class of 2021 possesses in spades and the Chairman of 2021 Asha Nayer has challenged the boys to create a Year Group Mantra that encapsulates the spirit of this fine tribe of young men. In your conversations and interactions with your son, please ensure to encourage them to provide their valued input into this important initiative. The Class of 2021 have the chance to create their own history and put their own stamp on the story of the WSA and the wider school community, so this statement of intent can be transformed into the fabric of what it means to be a Knox man. 

The boys completed their HSC Top Tips sessions this week and their engagement in the sessions was outstanding. These important messages and strategies, imparted by members of the Class of 2020, are invaluable and will hold the boys in good stead as they progress into the next stage of assessment tasks. 

The Tartan Army continues to grow in strength and the passing of the guard has reached its official completion with the erecting of the 2021 Tartan Army signage. This is a very proud moment for all involved and the inspiring figures of Dom Cutrone, Lachie Orth and Ayden Yates loom large around the school for all to see. 

In the world of Boarding, our Year 12 boys will be heading to Chowder Bay this weekend for an overnight camp. The program has a focus on strengthening relationships, developing a tangible culture, and equipping our boys with a number of tools that will help them flourish through their final year. Activities include SUP-ing, raft-building, numerous sessions with a focus on fostering connection and wellbeing, as well as a comprehensive workshop with the Fit State of Mind crew. 

The Stage 6 team is here to support, guide and empower your son to achieve their personal best and for this to be successful an open line of communication is crucial. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your son’s Mentor. Whether you are a first time reader or an enthusiastic regular, Adam and I wish you a safe and fun-filled weekend and bid you a fond farewell until next week.

James Stubbs-Mills

 Photo: courtesy Shiv Suresh

While it has been fantastic to see all the Y12 2021 jerseys being worn and enjoyed, we would ask that you please remind your son that the jersey is not permitted to be worn to and from school in place of his blazer. Students were informed by Mr Ranyard (Student Management Officer) that he will confiscate any jersey from a student if seen breaking this request.

This week, we recommenced the wonderful lunchtime concerts kicking off with performances by Hamish Chan, Aaron Erdstein, Hugh Gelder Read, Finn Carolan and Asha Nayer. They were fantastic, as always! Along with the lunchtime concerts, early morning practices are in full swing. It is always a treat to arrive to school to hear the Pipe Band practicing on Knox 1.

During this week's Year Meeting, we acknowledged Aaron Erdstein for attaining his Gold Duke of Edinburgh level, and well deserved recognition for Euan Liney with his fundraising efforts in the 'Superswim' for the Starlight Foundation.

Congratulations to Gabe Carmody who is not only our water Polo Captain but has been doing amazing things in rowing! On 7 February Gabe participated in the 2021 NSW Rowing Championships at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, Penrith. Gabe won a Gold medal in the U19 Double Scull and a Silver in the U19 Quad scull. Well done to Gabe and his team mates! 

I wish you all a wonderful weekend and for the romantics - Happy Valentine's Day for Sunday.

Debra Barnard

Doubt thou the stars are fire; Doubt that the sun doth move; Doubt truth to be a liar; But never doubt I love
Hamlet - William Shakespeare

Careers in Medicine (online seminar in conjunction with the OKGA)
When: Monday 22 February 2021, commencing at 6pm
Where: Online via Zoom (a link will be sent to you after registration)
Who: Years 10, 11 and 12 students and their parents
Registration: By 12noon, Monday 22 February at https://knoxgrammar.com/mce
Contact: Linda Gomez, Director of Career Education & Development

Students and parents will hear from the following speakers working in the field of medicine: Dr Marco Raftopulos (OKG02, Dan Schofield (OKG15) and Thomas Lee (OKG18). For more information, click here for the flyer.

Upcoming Event - save the date
• Knox Careers Night – Tuesday 25 May 2021, Great Hall, from 5.30pm to 8pm

Linda Gomez

Last Saturday, Knox hosted an Independent Schools' Mountain Biking Carnival at Terrey Hills. As many as 200 riders participated in one of the fastest growing sports at the School at the moment. Some great results and effort was put in by our team as well as the huge amount of preparation that went in to hosting such a huge carnival. Well done to all staff and participants.

Knox also hosted local friends Barker College in the majority of fixtures in the Senior School and fortunately, the weather held off for long enough to see many boys wear the Black and Blue for the first time. The spirit among both schools was great to watch. I know the boys had a great day. Congratulations to our new Year 7s who were fantastic. We are all extremely proud of the efforts and sportsmanship shown by them in Round 1.

This week, all boys and families were sent an email and link to the Winter Sport Choices for 2021. Please take some time to read and consider carefully before your son commits to a winter sport. For logistical and other reasons, we do not allow changes once the winter trial period has begun. We need all choices completed by next Friday 19 February, please.

Congratulations to all the boys selected to compete at the Knox Swim Championships next Wednesday. Just to make finals is a huge effort. The standard of Swimming is exceptional at Knox and just rises each and every year with many more records expected to go on the night.

Congratulations to Tom Morrison (Y12) who was recently selected into the NSW Rugby 7s Under 17 team – and to top off Tom’s selection, he has been asked to captain the State Team. Well done and good luck, Tom.

COVID-19 Policy
Could I remind all parents of our current COVID-19 policy regarding the number of spectators allowed on-site on a Saturday. Siblings may not come along and only one parent may watch our sports played indoors (Lawson Centre area and Great Hall area). Unfortunately, we had to remove a number of people last Saturday and it is not ideal.

Regarding sport this weekend and how it will look regarding COVID-19 restrictions, please note the details below. Any late variations will be sent via the School app.

Process for Sports fixtures – Saturday 13 February
1. Check the team list to see your son’s team – see the Knox app (download instructions)
2. Check the sports draw to see where and when your son’s team is playing – check the Knox app
3. Is he playing at a Knox Grammar School venue? If yes:

• 2 spectator parents/guardians per player at our outdoor venues
• 1 spectator parent guardian per player at our indoor venues
• Service NSW QR code registration will be in place across all facilities at entry points, with standard health checks and questions.
• Players in all teams should turn up ready to play – no change rooms will be available.
• Canteens will be closed. Players should bring their own labelled water bottles and snacks if required.
• Players should leave immediately after completion of their fixture.
• Teams due to play in Great Hall, MacNeil and Lawson court will need to wait on Boulevard until they may enter the facility. This will depend on finish time of previous fixture.
• Water Polo players will need to wait in JAPAC rec area for clearance to enter the pool area.
• Standard 1.5m social distancing for all spectators.

4. Is your son playing away? Which school is he playing against?

St Aloysius' College
• Willoughby Leisure Centre - NO SPECTATORS
• Other Indoor venues - 2 spectator parent/guardians per player
• Outdoor venues - 2 spectator parent/guardians per player

Barker College
• Indoor venues - 2 spectator parent/guardians per player
• Outdoor venues - 2 spectator parent/guardians per player

Cranbrook School
• Indoor venues - 1 spectator parent/guardians per player
• Outdoor venues - 2 spectator parent/guardians per player

Trinity Grammar School
• Indoor venues - 2 spectator parent/guardians per player
• Outdoor venues - 2 spectator parent/guardians per player

St Ignatius College (Riverview)
• Indoor venues – 1 spectator parent/guardians per player
• Outdoor venues - 2 spectator parent/guardians per player

Shore Pool (fixture vs St Joseph's)
• 2 spectator parent/guardians per player

Drummoyne Pool (Newington)
• 2 spectator parent/guardians per player

Please ensure you follow social distancing guidelines at all times and leave immediately after your son’s game. As always, any sports cancellations due to wet weather will be announced via the Knox app (make sure you have subscribed to alerts for your son’s summer sport).

If you have any questions, please email Sport.

Thank you and best wishes to all our students this weekend. 

Martin Haywood

Monday 15 February  

• Individual photo- Catch-up. Lunchtime only. Great Hall Foyer

Thursday 18 to Friday 19 February  

• Geography Excursion - Stockton Dunes/ Tamburlaine Organic Wines

Monday 22 February  

• Careers in Medicine Online Seminar. Registrations now open. Commencing 6pm

Wednesday 3 March  

• SOR Excursion - Nan Tien Temple 

Friday 5 March to Wednesday 10 March 

• Battle of the Bands Heats - Boulevard

Sunday 7 March  

• Clean Up Australia Day

Wednesday 10 March  

• Money Confidence Workshop 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Thursday 11 March  

• CAS Swim and Dive Championships - SOPAC

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Philippians 4:6

Each term, Knox holds a Handwriting Course designed to help improve the speed, accuracy and neatness of students’ handwriting, reducing tension and fatigue when writing for long periods of time. In 2020 the classes will be held by Ms Lisa Norton, an occupational therapist, who specialises in the development of skills necessary for handwriting and the remediation of handwriting difficulties.

We have a few places remaining for our Term 1, 2021 course which begins next week, Week 4. Our course will run on either a Tuesday or Wednesday or both mornings, starting at 7.30am, once minimum numbers are confirmed.

A minimum of seven students, and a maximum of ten, ensures individual attention. The course costs $300 for seven sessions of 45 minutes. The Introductory seven-week course includes a tub of theraputty, that is designed to improve hand muscle strength and fine motor skills.

We will also be taking an ‘Expression of Interest’ for a five-week refresher course to run the second half of Term 1 for anyone who has completed the seven-week course previously.

Availability of places is dependent upon a first come first served basis. All students who miss out on a place in Term 1 will be placed on the waiting list for Term 2, 2021.

Should you be interested in pursuing this option for your son, please contact Rebecca Papageorgiou in the Learning Enhancement Department ASAP.

Knox Symphony Orchestra (KSO) Rehearsal Workshop Day 
On behalf of KAPA, we offer our collective congratulations following our brilliant Rehearsal Day on Sunday to our 2021 KSO Ensemble.

Our KSO members demonstrated commitment, tremendous enthusiasm, and high calibre musicianship throughout the entire day.

With 67 musicians in attendance, encompassing students from Years 7-12, we could have not asked for a better start to the year. Just listen to how great they all sounded by clicking on the following link: KSO.

What a magnificent start towards our Orchestral Night at the Proms Concert, Meet the Symphony Orchestra incursion and 2021 Sydney Eisteddfod performances - congratulations boys!

James Brice, Head of KAPA

KPA Name Badges - last chance to order
The KPA organises name badges for parents at the start of each school year for use at the various school functions you will attend throughout your son's time at Knox. They come with the Knox crest and your name, with a simple magnet on the back for attaching. They are a much better alternative to the sticky labels that always peel off! The cost of $16 includes postage.

Orders close Friday 19 February 2021. This is the only opportunity to order name badges for 2021, so please put your order in now to avoid disappointment.

Please click here to order and pay for a name badge. Be sure to put down your name as you would like it to appear on the badge (first and last name only).

Winter Uniform
We would like to remind all parents that Term 2 changes over into winter uniform. For further information on what the uniform item changes are, please refer to the Uniform Policy and Regulations. We strongly recommend purchasing the winter uniform earlier than later and not wait until the last week of the school holidays as we cannot guarantee all sizes will be available.

Special orders
For any students who have special requirements regarding winter uniform items, it is strongly recommended that these are discussed with the Uniform Shop Staff as soon as possible. Occasionally, we have students who have allergies/sensitivity to wool and in these instances, time permitting, we can get winter trousers lined and jumpers made in a cotton/nylon blend. These special orders require some notice: four weeks for the trousers and up to eight weeks for knitwear.

Other instances include if your son is not of a standard size. For example, very tall but slim and may require extra length or he may be of a more solid frame like a Rugby player and the standard sizes may be disproportional.

Please visit the Uniform Shop during trading hours (see below) or contact via us by phone 9487 0191 or email.

Trading Hours
Monday to Friday: 12.30pm-5.30pm
Saturday (Terms 1 and 4 only): 9am-12noon

Phone (02) 9487 0191 or visit the Knox website here for more information.

Julie Blackburn, Knox Uniform Shop Manager

Our informal prayer meeting for Term 1 will be held at 10am on Friday 19 March, at the home of Prue Feather. Morning Tea will be included.

There will also be an evening meeting at 8pm on Wednesday 10 March, at the home of Fiona van Horen.

Please RSVP if you plan to attend so that we comply with the gathering limits prescribed by the government’s Public Health Orders in place at the time.

A warm welcome is extended to anyone from our Knox community who would like to attend.

Any enquires to Prue Feather.

On Wednesday during lunchtime, I was able to briefly join Mr James and staff to enjoy a few musical performances that ranged from instruments to vocals by the talented Year 12 students. It is always a privilege to be able to have this time with the students and appreciate them individually for their incredible talents. Thank you to Mr Jenkins and Mr Chessher for their wonderful accompaniment.