We have started 2025 with enthusiasm, optimism, and intent.
Welcoming our new cohort of Year 7 students has been an absolute highlight of the year so far. They have faced and embraced the new challenges of secondary school life with an enthusiastic attitude and willingness to learn. So much so that they planned and executed the first-ever Year 7 Feast; a shared lunch and connection activity, led by students, for students. The event was a great success, with many students and staff expressing their appreciation. This was a great precursor to our annual Year 7 Connection Day which will take place on Friday, 7 March.
The One Haileybury Culture of Learning Framework was launched to staff, students, and parents. The Framework is being rolled out across all Haileybury schools and campuses. It is designed to build a coherent culture of expectations, routines, and processes, with slight adaptations to suit local contexts. As an example, our routines are designed to support students throughout all stages of a lesson, including; ‘Prepare, and be on time’, ‘Be ready, for learning’, ‘Engage’, and ‘Complete, and reflect’. We look forward to support from families in building a common language while students practice this new culture.
It is with pleasure I announce our Middle School Year Level Coordinators for 2025.
- Year 7 Coordinator (and Deputy Head of Middle School) – Ms Sammy Gates
- Year 8 Coordinator – Mr Cam McKenzie
- Year 9 Coordinator (and Head of MS/SS Student Wellbeing Programs) – Ms Rebecca Thomas
Families are encouraged to get to know these wonderful staff who are pivotal in supporting our students every day.
Thank you to all those families who attended the Middle and Senior Schools Information Evening Webinar on Tuesday, 11 February. The slides and a recording of the evening are now available on the sub-schools pages of myHRS.
Brendan Evans
Head of Middle School
Sweet Success in Food Tech
Last week in Food Technology our Year 7 Ochre students embraced the Valentine’s Day spirit with two delightful treats!
On Wednesday, they made heart-shaped watermelon icy-poles, which turned out to be a refreshing and delicious hit. Simple to prepare and loved by all, they were the perfect festive snack.
Students also created white chocolate-drizzled pretzels, topped with a love heart lolly. The combination of flavours was even better than expected! To make the experience extra special, they packaged them in little gift bags to share with friends.
What made this week truly memorable was the gratitude and enthusiasm from the students. Their appreciation and kind words filled the kitchen with joy, making this Valentine’s Day celebration one to remember.
Marion Hoy
Food Technology Teacher
Welcome back to another exciting year in the Drama Department at Haileybury Rendall School!
We are thrilled to share the highlights of our vibrant start to the year across all year levels.
Junior School students have been diving into the world of Drama with a focus on safety in their Drama spaces. Through Introductory Drama Games and Activities, our young thespians are learning to use their creativity and imagination. They have been investigating their favourite animals and using stories as stimuli to create engaging short performances. The students are also exploring the art of mime, bringing their stories to life without words.
In Year 7, the focus has been on Mime and its devices. Students are mastering the techniques of this silent art form, learning to express emotions and narratives through movement and facial expressions. Their dedication and enthusiasm are truly inspiring!
Year 8 students have been re-capping the Dramatic Elements and delving into the investigation of mood and tension. By re-enacting ‘Dream’ scenarios, they are honing their skills in creating and sustaining dramatic tension, making their performances captivating and dynamic.
Thank you for your continued support of the Drama Department. Here’s to a year filled with creativity, imagination, and unforgettable performances!
Nick Karakottas
Head of Drama
