Headmaster's Column
I feel very fortunate to be part of this community. Having a sense of belonging provides an awareness of feeling connected to others. In a school setting, 'belonging' gives students feelings of security, identity and community, which, in turn, supports their academic, physical, spiritual and social development.
Belonging is a fundamental human need, yet one in four students around the world do not feel connected to their school, and unfortunately the numbers are steadily rising. The impact of this can be huge – not just on a student’s academic achievements, but on their overall wellbeing as adolescents and later as adults.
With the rates of mental illness, disconnection, social isolation and loneliness among young people rising, fostering a sense of belonging at school may help provide a critical solution to a complex social problem. Research shows feeling like you belong at school is linked to higher levels of student emotional and physical wellbeing and better academic performance and achievement.
Team Leaders
As the remnants of the torrential rainfall of Week 9 subsides, the Class of 2021 are now a step closer to the end of what has been a hectic Term 1.
The final assessment task for this term has now been completed and it is time to cast an eye onto the weeks ahead - whether this be under the shade of a Hutchy on AFX, or through the lens of consolidation in a classroom, the boys still have plenty to focus on before the upcoming Easter break. In keeping with the theme of looking forward, Mrs Gomez presented some very important information to the cohort during our Year Meeting on the topic of UAC applications and the process involved. This congregation also provided an opportunity to celebrate and congratulate the outstanding cast, supporting crew and ensemble members that took part in the 'Beauty and Beast' Musical. The accolades didn’t stop there with the recognition of Euan Liney for his swimming efforts and Gabe Carmody for his outstanding rowing efforts at state level.
Student Administration Officer
Finally the skies have cleared and we are able to see the Cadets off on AFX Camp from today after farewelling the Advance Party last Tuesday morning. Speaking to the Co2021 I know just how much they are looking forward to this final camp experience.
Congratulations to Royston Pearce who last Wednesday, gained his Diploma in Effective Public Speaking with a pass mark of A+ (96 marks!). This is an outstanding achievement, Royston. Well done! Effective Public Speaking exams through the International Music Examinations Board (IMEB) are very challenging, involving both prepared repertoire and improvisational content.
Though student numbers may be reduced next week due to camp, for students remaining at school, we still require parents to complete notifications for any absences.
Please click here for the Term 2 Assessment Chart. This can also be found on the Year 12 page on the portal under the Academic tab.
Senior Academy Team
With just one week left of Term 1 (where did that go?) for Cadets and non-Cadets 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 two week break.
The boys were given a A3 Study Planner on Tuesday and they have had some time to consider what needs to be done to allow them to return in Term 2 prepared and confident as they enter the next round of assessments from Week 1. The template will also be emailed to the boys, linked to this newsletter and on the portal.
We have reinforced the importance of ongoing 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 two week period from 8am to 4pm . The Old Boy Academic coaches will also be available throughout this time from 10am to 1 pm.
Sports News
Head of Knox Sports and Aquatic Academy
OKGA Awards
Last week, a number of students were presented to the School as winners of the OKGA Summer Sports awards. The awards are recognition of effort, spirit, sportsmanship and commitment throughout the summer season – and simply not necessarily about the best player or the 'superstar' of the team. All boys are to be congratulated on such an important honour and I hope they will lead the way as we head into the winter season.
Snow Sports
Snow Sport Regional Interschools nominations are now open. The competition registration form and all other Snow Sports Information is accessible via the Knox app. Ensure that you are subscribed to Snow Sports. Regional Interschools run from 28 June to 2 July with students able represent Knox through the Interschools Competition Pathway.
Upcoming Events
Thursday 1 April
• Term 1 concludes - NOTE classes continue for all students not on camp
Friday 2 to Monday 5 April
• Easter weekend - Happy Easter!
Tuesday 6 to Friday 16 April inclusive
• WSA Study Hall open from 8am to 4pm daily
Tuesday 20 April
• Term 2 commences
Wednesday 21 April
• Year 12 BBQ on the terrace returns! NO cash - eftpos only
Monday 10 May
• Year 12 Parent Morning Tea. Great Hall Foyer. 11am-12.30pm
Text for the Week
You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.
Psalm 16:1
Drama and Theatre
'Beauty and the Beast' was miraculously presented from 18-20 March in the magnificent Wenkart Theatre after being first scheduled for performance in October of 2020.
This production has been universally acclaimed with many calling it the best production they have witnessed on a Knox stage. The production was distinguished by witty and also poignant acting, beautifully crafted orchestral and vocal music, fabulous dance numbers, spectacular production elements and, above all, a cast of performers unified in their expert performance skills and passion for performance.
The Year 12 principals: Anton Pan-Cassin, Dom Cutrone, Ben Chubb, Tom O'Sullivan and stage manager Jack MacLean, had all been cast in the last minute cancellation of 'The Importance of Being Earnest' in 2020, and all were inherent to the outstanding success of this production. Dancers Mitch Penn and Ethan Ang took their magnificent final bows and Jack Sheppard in his debut performed his role with great flair. Tom Nathan and Charlie Herdman played cameo roles. Orchestra musicians Dominic Rodriguez Russell, Oliver Heller, Stanley Yeung and Aaron Erdstein played with stunning expertise. To you all, our profound gratitude for all you have given to Knox Theatre over the years.
Michael Griffiths, Director of Drama and Theatre K-12
Community Notices
ANZAC Service and Parade
We are pleased to announce that the Knox ANZAC Service and Parade will go ahead on Sunday 2 May 2021 at 8.30am with some modifications and restrictions. All students in the Cadet Unit are expected to attend this event.
Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, we will be limiting spectators to two tickets per Year 11 and 12 Cadets, Pipes and Drums, Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Gallery Choir students only. We will continue to monitor government advice and recommendations, and should more tickets become available, we will update parents. We apologise for any disappointment this may cause and thank you for your understanding.
The service and parade will be live streamed here.
If you have any questions, please email events@knox.nsw.edu.au.
Knox Academy of Performing Arts
Woodwind Soiree #1 - Tuesday 23 March
Our first back with a live performance since 2019! Performers from across Years 7-12 included HSC, Music elective and music enthusiasts. This 60 minute event was held in the Francis Auditorium with piano accompanist, Ingrid Sakurovs.
It was a wonderful opportunity for students to share what they have been learning in their 1:1 lessons this term and what is in preparation for upcoming performance exams.
Knox Uniform Shop
Trading Hours
Monday to Friday: 12.30pm-5.30pm
Saturday (Terms 1 and 4 only): 9am-12noon
Term 1 Holiday Trading Hours
Thursday 1 April - Uniform Shop closes at 5.30pm
Friday 2 April through to Monday 5 April - Closed for Public Holiday
Tuesday 6 April - 9.30am-5pm (closed 12.30pm-1pm)
Wednesday 7 April - 9.30am-5pm (closed 12.30pm-1pm)
Thursday 15 April - 9.30am-5pm (closed 12.30pm-1pm)
Friday 16 April - 9.30am-5pm (closed 12.30pm-1pm)
Saturday 17 April - 9am-12noon
Monday 19 April - 9.30am-5pm (closed 12.30pm-1pm)
Tuesday 20 April (First day of Term 2) - 8am-5pm (closed 12.30pm-1pm)
For all enquiries, please contact via us by phone 9487 0191 or email.
You may also visit the Knox website here for more information.
Julie Blackburn, Knox Uniform Shop Manager
Professional Photo Galleries
The Photo Galleries on the Knox portal have been updated with the following event photos now available for families to view and purchase online:
• Senior Musical - 'Beauty and the Beast'
• 2021 summer sport - Knox Prep and Senior School
• CAS Swimming and Diving Championships
Please note that passwords for each gallery are case sensitive. If you have any issues logging into the Knox portal, please contact the Knox Helpdesk.
Eileen Aroyan, Publications Manager
Senior School Tuckshops - Volunteers Required
We are so excited to be able to welcome parent volunteers back on campus to assist in the Tuckshops from the start of Term 2, 2021. The return of volunteers is subject to continued stabilisation of local and state health requirements regarding COVID-19.
We greatly appreciate our volunteers and their contributions to our School community.
Helping out in the tuckshop is very rewarding experience and a great way to meet and socialise with new friends. If you are able to volunteer in one of the Senior School Tuckshops, please click on the following link here.
Week 10 Term 1 2021 Menu
Photo Galleries
AFX Camp
The Advance Party left on Tuesday under rainy skies while the remainder have staggered departures today and tomorrow.
