From the Principal
Welcome to Haileybury Rendall School for 2025. I am pleased to extend a warm welcome to our whole community as we roll into Term 1. For the first time, we start a School year with over 1050 students from ELC through to Year 12.
Online news from Haileybury Rendall School
Welcome to Haileybury Rendall School for 2025. I am pleased to extend a warm welcome to our whole community as we roll into Term 1. For the first time, we start a School year with over 1050 students from ELC through to Year 12.
I am pleased to extend a warm welcome to our whole community as we roll into Term 1.
For the first time, we start a School year with over 1050 students from ELC through to Year 12. We have a record number of Indigenous students, 151 or 14% of our cohort, and we start with 100 boarders living at school from across northern Australia and parts of Asia. We are also excited to include 5 NT Pangea students who will study with us online for 2025.
There is a lot of excitement around our new staff and this group includes 20 new classroom teachers from Transition to Year 12. All reports confirm that this is the most talented and committed intake of new staff ever. Quite incredibly, 13 of these new teachers have joined us from Victoria, where they have had great experiences and are now committed to a northern lifestyle of brilliant teaching, hard work and enjoyable tourist experiences. There is no doubt that the Haileybury name has helped us attract such a quality new staffing team. Across teaching, boarding, corporates, facilities and administration we now employ just over 200 staff.
We have completed extensive refurbishment and improvements across the Christmas break that includes:
With the partial opening of Berrimah Rd on/off ramps from Tiger Brennan Drive, we also greatly appreciated the patience and flexibility of our parents as we continued to work on parking and traffic flow in the School.
And a reminder to download the MyHRS app to stay up to date on all notices.
Andrew McGregor
Principal
ELC & Junior School Photos
|
Wednesday, 26 February
|
Middle and Senior School Photos
|
Thursday, 27 February
|
Siblings & Catch-up School Photos
|
Monday, 3 March
|
International Women’s Day Breakfast
|
Friday, 7 March
|
Middle & Senior School Parent-Teacher Interviews
|
Tuesday, 25 March
|
Quiz Night and Auction
|
Friday, 9 May
|
You are warmly invited to our 3rd Annual International Women’s Day Breakfast:
Date: Friday, 7 March
Time: 7.00 am-8.30 am (Arrival from 7.00 am for coffee, guests seated for a 7.30 am sharp start)
Location: Dumabudla, Haileybury Rendall
Book your tickets here: https://events.humanitix.com/hrs-international-woman-s...
Continental breakfast and cold beverages will be provided.
This year’s UN Women Australia theme is March Forward. We are very excited to announce that our guest speaker is Tisha Tejaya. Tisha is an award-winning author & artist whose inspiring journey began growing up in Darwin helping community at the local produce markets. Tisha's guidebook, Parap & Rapid Creek Market Pocketbook, celebrates the likes of durian and mangosteen
All proceeds from this fundraising event will go to the NT Working Women’s Centre.
The International Women’s Day Breakfast is not just for women, but everyone who supports the achievement of women and are committed to women’s equality. We hope that Haileybury Rendall School staff, students, and friends will enjoy beginning the day with this wonderful community event, most suitable for ages Year 5 and above.
Help Shape Our New Reconciliation Action Plan.
I am pleased to inform you that Haileybury Rendall School will be preparing a new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) during 2025.
Our RAP supports our school to build knowledge and pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures and contributions. You can read our 24/25 RAP here.
Through our RAP, we strengthen relationships, respect and opportunities in the classroom, around the school, and with the community.
Developing our RAP is a long-term commitment, one that requires ongoing consideration and collaborative effort. Within our community, there is unique knowledge and valuable experience that we would love to see reflected in the development and implementation of our RAP.
We are seeking your input and support so that our RAP creates meaningful change. This letter is a call to action for staff, parents, carers, students and community members to express their perspective on our approach to Reconciliation. We are particularly interested in the question:
To give your opinion, please send an email to Anthony Barker (Chair of the RAP Working Group) at anthony.barker@haileybury.com.au
This information will then be shared with the RAP Working Group. Members of the group are dedicated to driving Reconciliation within our school community, and lead the coordination and administration of RAP initiatives.
We’re building our RAP using Reconciliation Australia’s Narragunnawali program. Find out more about this excellent program: reconciliation.org.au/narragunnawali
Anthony Barker
Chair of the RAP Working Group
We are excited to announce that HRS instrumental students have the chance to perform in front of a live audience during our Cushion Concerts, held on selected Thursday lunchtimes. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to build their confidence, develop their musical skills, and experience the joy of performing live!
Performing in front of others has proven benefits, not only in boosting self-confidence, but also in improving academic achievement. Music and live performance help students develop discipline, focus, and resilience—skills that translate into greater success in the classroom.
If you are an instrumental student and would like to sign up for the next Cushion Concert, please speak with your music tutor or contact Mrs. Mau.
Our next concert is scheduled for Week 5, so don’t miss out on this chance to showcase your talent and gain invaluable experience!
We look forward to seeing you perform!
Welcome to 2025. It was an absolute pleasure to see so many familiar faces over the Christmas/New Year break, and in addition to that, a record-high number of faces walked through our doors. This will hold us in good stead for the upcoming year.
Clean Up Australia Day is just around the corner (Sunday, 2nd March) and on Wednesday, 26 February we will be doing our part for the community in a school grounds clean up. If you would like to be involved, enrol your child/ren now for this session., In other news, we have a new OSHC space, located just past our old OSHC room, towards the bottom football oval. Feel free to pop in if you haven’t already, check it out, or just come and say hello! Keep an eye on the next Newsletter for some updates on how Term 1 has begun. There will be some really fun photos to go with it.
Don’t forget to get your bookings in to reserve your spot with us. Limited spots are available.
Camp Australia
Email: nthaileyburyrendall@oshccampaustralia.com.au
The new school year has begun with excitement and enthusiasm at Haileybury Rendall School Early Learning Centre (ELC), where we warmly welcomed our two full Preschool classes and one Reception class. It has been a delight to see our young learners settle in so well, forming new friendships, building trust with their educators, and embracing the routines of school life.
We began the year with a fun-filled holiday program in early January, filled with a range of activities that encouraged exploration, creativity, and social interaction. This program provided a wonderful opportunity for children to transition smoothly into the new school year, helping them feel comfortable and confident as they stepped into their classrooms.
As the term commenced, we have placed a strong focus on well-being, understanding that a sense of security and belonging is the foundation for all learning. Our educators have been dedicated to creating warm, nurturing environments where children feel safe, valued, and heard. Establishing trust between students and teachers is essential in fostering a love for learning, encouraging curiosity, and supporting emotional resilience.
Relationships are at the heart of everything we do. Each day, children engage in activities that help them learn about one another—sharing their interests, discovering commonalities, and developing essential social skills. Through play, collaboration, and guided conversations, they are learning the importance of kindness, empathy, and respect for others. These early experiences help shape their confidence and ability to navigate social interactions with ease.
Alongside settling into classroom routines, our specialist classes have also commenced, offering students a rich and varied learning experience. Our students have eagerly participated in Music, Physical Education, Library, and Mandarin lessons. These subjects provide wonderful opportunities for self-expression, movement, creativity, and language development, all of which contribute to a well-rounded education.
It has been a pleasure to witness the children’s excitement as they explore, learn, and grow together. As the year unfolds, we look forward to continuing to nurture their sense of belonging, supporting their development, and celebrating their achievements. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead at Haileybury Rendall Early Learning Centre!
Michelle Shaw
Head of Early Learning Centre
We’ve had a fantastic start to the term, with students settling in wonderfully and adjusting to their routines. It’s been a busy and exciting few weeks, with many events already taking place!
One of the highlights of the term was our Student Leaders Assembly, a great opportunity for students to step into leadership roles and set the tone for the year ahead. We also kicked off our House Activities last Friday. These activities allowed students to get to know each other better and begin building their House spirit for the year. It was a wonderful way to create connections and start the year with enthusiasm and teamwork!
A very special highlight was our Meet and Greet event, where we welcomed many parents to spend the afternoon with us. It was heartwarming to see such a great turnout and to connect with our school community right at the start of the term.
As we continue to settle into the term, we kindly ask that you check your child’s uniform to ensure it is correct and in line with the school guidelines. Additionally, please remember that students can arrive at school from 8:00 AM and the classroom doors will be opened when the music starts to play. Punctuality is essential, as arriving on time allows students to set up for the day, be prepared, and not miss any valuable learning time. If your child arrives before 8:00 AM, we have before-school care facilities available for them to access.
Thank you for your ongoing support, and we look forward to a successful and rewarding term ahead!
Student recognition
Last year Scarlett (Year 7) was nominated and was successfully selected as the winning recipient of the prestigious Administrator’s Medal award. Scarlett received this award at a ceremony at Parliament House on 31 January. Well done, Scarlett, we are very proud of you!
Lisa Doyle
Head of Junior School
This week we received certificates for students who participated in the 2024 NT Chief Minister's Reading Challenge. The change of government last year interrupted the process, but the new Chief Minister has now signed the whopping 9,684 certificates of all the students who participated across the Territory. The HRS contribution was 44 students from Years 3 – 6, a wonderful effort.
To receive a certificate the students must read a minimum of 12 books in 3 months. Evidence shows that experiencing success in reading, leads to increased motivation to attempt even more difficult reading tasks. This contributes to higher achievement across all curriculum subjects. The Challenge encourages regular reading to build reading stamina and fluency - vital elements in reading success.
Congratulations to all those students who rose to the challenge. Let’s see if we can get even more readers on board this year!
Kym Diprose
Head of Library Services
On February 11, the Junior School celebrated Safer Internet Day, with activities continuing throughout the week to support students in developing essential online safety skills. Whether receiving their iPads for the first time or refreshing their knowledge, all students engaged in meaningful discussions and activities.
Our youngest students in Transition and Year 1 coloured in posters reinforcing the key message: Stop, Close, and Tell a Trusted Adult if they see something unsafe online. Year 1 and 2 explored why Safer Internet Day is important and sorted actions into safe and unsafe iPad use.
In Years 2 and 3, students took learning a step further by acting out online safety scenarios, and demonstrating how to respond to potential risks. Some Year 3 students created visuals using the Freeform app to represent safe online behaviours.
Years 4 and 5 engaged in a detailed brainstorm, discussing the importance of Safer Internet Day and key strategies for staying safe in an increasingly digital world.
These activities provided valuable learning opportunities, equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the online space safely and responsibly.
Marion Hoy
Computer Science Teacher
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.
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
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
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
Welcome to the 2025 school year! A special welcome to our new Senior School students and families.
As we settle in, students should focus on setting themselves up for success. Our Senior students are expected to lead by example in uniform, conduct, and work ethic. This year, we are emphasising a ‘Culture of Learning’, ensuring students are prepared each day. I look forward to seeing our Senior Students uphold these high standards.
Year 12 Prefects’ Trip to Melbourne
In the first full week, our 2025 Prefects and School Leaders travelled to Melbourne, visiting Haileybury’s City, Brighton, and Berwick campuses. They were warmly welcomed by Ms. Lucy Cummings (City Campus Head) and Mr. Gautier Bouchardeau (Year 12 Coordinator). A highlight was attending the Haileybury Founders Day assembly and experiencing the processional and bagpipes. Most importantly, the trip strengthened their bonds as leaders, a connection noted by accompanying staff, Ms. Stasey (Year 12 YLC) and Mr. Barker (Year 11 YLC).
Leadership & Achievements
Our Year 12 leaders encourage everyone to support fundraising efforts, including Valentine’s roses and the upcoming World’s Greatest Shave—a great way to show community spirit!
Congratulations to Amelia (Year 10) and Aidan (Year 10), selected for the NT Youth Round Table, a prestigious honour.
Further congratulations to Macey Sheridan, 2024 Junior Sportsperson of the Year, now a finalist for the 2025 NT Sports Awards.
Wishing everyone a successful and fulfilling year ahead!
Kylie Mobilia
Head of Senior School
Haileybury Rendall School is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Elijza (Year 10) who has been awarded the Singing for Leisure Grade 5 Prize for 2024 by AMEB SA & NT. This prestigious award recognizes Elijza’s outstanding dedication, perseverance, and musical excellence throughout the year.
Elijza’s hard work and passion for singing have truly set her apart, and this well-deserved recognition highlights not only her talent but also the unwavering support and guidance of our dedicated music department. Under the mentorship of her teacher, Elijza has demonstrated remarkable growth, refining her vocal skills and embracing every challenge with determination.
Her achievement will be formally announced at the Australia Music Examination Board SA & NT Awards Ceremony on Saturday, 5 April 2025, where she will have the opportunity to proudly represent our school as she receives her award alongside other top-performing students from across all regions.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Elijza on this incredible accomplishment. Her success is a testament to the power of dedication, expert teaching, and a passion for music. We look forward to seeing her continue to shine!
Ilona Martin
Head of Music
Leadership is a topic we often talk about at Haileybury Rendall School because we are all leaders here. That is students, staff, parents, and caregivers. We are leading the next generation into a very different world full of challenges with social media, climate uncertainty, and global issues that our young boarders are learning about every day.
We can say with pride that our Boarding Leaders are a shining example of youth who can listen and support others. Our Middle School Boarding Prefects, Jasper and Taitum, are mature, outgoing people who have the respect of their peers.
Our Senior School Boarding Prefects Hank and Monica bring a kind and calm presence to Boarding.
Boarding is a much wiser place thanks to our Prefects’ support, and I look forward to working with them in 2025.
Nick Eddy
Director of Boarding
In the spirit of Chinese New Year, HRS staff, boarding and day students, and International students, came together at Madjirra for a special dumpling-making event to celebrate this vibrant cultural festival. The kitchen was filled with laughter and excitement as students learned to make dumplings from scratch, a cherished tradition symbolising prosperity and togetherness.
Under the guidance of staff, students kneaded dough, prepared fillings, and crafted dumplings in various shapes and sizes. They experimented with different flavours, from classic pork and cabbage to creative vegetarian options, showcasing their culinary skills and teamwork.
Beyond the cooking, the event also highlighted the cultural significance of dumplings in Chinese New Year celebrations, where they represent wealth and good fortune for the coming year. This memorable celebration brought the HRS community closer, blending learning, creativity, and cultural appreciation. It was a perfect way to welcome the Year of the Snake with joy and unity.
Lei Shangguan
Head of Languages
Debbie Unwin
International Student Coordinator
Welcome to Stars 2025!
We are excited to introduce two new staff members, Alisha and Chantelle, who are eager to support our young Indigenous students on their learning journey. Both bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to nurturing the growth of our students, helping them navigate their educational paths with confidence and pride.
At Stars, we are dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships that empower young women to become strong leaders in their communities. Our foundation is built on encouraging these students to honor their commitment to education, respect themselves and others, and develop strong moral values. Through this, we aim to create a supportive environment that inspires personal growth and success, both in school and beyond.
The Stars room has been thoughtfully designed to offer our students a peaceful and supportive environment where they can take a moment to relax, reset, and refocus before diving into their daily lessons. We encourage the young learners to embrace this space, using it not only to recharge but also as a resource to help them better manage their learning experience. It is our belief that by taking pride in how they utilize these resources, our students can build confidence in their abilities and foster a deeper connection to their educational journey.
By providing a safe and caring environment, we aim to instill in our students the importance of our core values: Respect, Honesty, Commitment, and Pride. These values are central to everything we do at Stars, and we are dedicated to supporting our young women in understanding how to embody these principles both inside and outside of the classroom. We believe that when students feel valued and supported, they are more likely to develop a sense of self-respect and a commitment to their personal growth, which in turn strengthens their connection to the broader school community.
The foundation of our Stars program is built upon fostering healthy relationships, not just with peers but also with mentors and staff. These relationships are essential for creating a supportive and empowering environment where our students feel encouraged to take risks, ask questions, and explore their full potential. The bonds formed between students, mentors, and staff serve as a vital network of support that helps our young stars navigate challenges and celebrate successes together. With these strong connections, our students are better equipped to overcome obstacles, develop resilience, and grow into the confident leaders of tomorrow. Through these supportive relationships, we create an environment where our young women can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially, setting them up for success both in their educational journey and beyond.
Chantelle Ilett
Stars Program Mentor
Online news from Haileybury Rendall School
I am pleased to extend a warm welcome to our whole community as we roll into Term 1.
For the first time, we start a School year with over 1050 students from ELC through to Year 12. We have a record number of Indigenous students, 151 or 14% of our cohort, and we start with 100 boarders living at school from across northern Australia and parts of Asia. We are also excited to include 5 NT Pangea students who will study with us online for 2025.
There is a lot of excitement around our new staff and this group includes 20 new classroom teachers from Transition to Year 12. All reports confirm that this is the most talented and committed intake of new staff ever. Quite incredibly, 13 of these new teachers have joined us from Victoria, where they have had great experiences and are now committed to a northern lifestyle of brilliant teaching, hard work and enjoyable tourist experiences. There is no doubt that the Haileybury name has helped us attract such a quality new staffing team. Across teaching, boarding, corporates, facilities and administration we now employ just over 200 staff.
We have completed extensive refurbishment and improvements across the Christmas break that includes:
With the partial opening of Berrimah Rd on/off ramps from Tiger Brennan Drive, we also greatly appreciated the patience and flexibility of our parents as we continued to work on parking and traffic flow in the School.
And a reminder to download the MyHRS app to stay up to date on all notices.
Andrew McGregor
Principal
ELC & Junior School Photos
|
Wednesday, 26 February
|
Middle and Senior School Photos
|
Thursday, 27 February
|
Siblings & Catch-up School Photos
|
Monday, 3 March
|
International Women’s Day Breakfast
|
Friday, 7 March
|
Middle & Senior School Parent-Teacher Interviews
|
Tuesday, 25 March
|
Quiz Night and Auction
|
Friday, 9 May
|
You are warmly invited to our 3rd Annual International Women’s Day Breakfast:
Date: Friday, 7 March
Time: 7.00 am-8.30 am (Arrival from 7.00 am for coffee, guests seated for a 7.30 am sharp start)
Location: Dumabudla, Haileybury Rendall
Book your tickets here: https://events.humanitix.com/hrs-international-woman-s...
Continental breakfast and cold beverages will be provided.
This year’s UN Women Australia theme is March Forward. We are very excited to announce that our guest speaker is Tisha Tejaya. Tisha is an award-winning author & artist whose inspiring journey began growing up in Darwin helping community at the local produce markets. Tisha's guidebook, Parap & Rapid Creek Market Pocketbook, celebrates the likes of durian and mangosteen
All proceeds from this fundraising event will go to the NT Working Women’s Centre.
The International Women’s Day Breakfast is not just for women, but everyone who supports the achievement of women and are committed to women’s equality. We hope that Haileybury Rendall School staff, students, and friends will enjoy beginning the day with this wonderful community event, most suitable for ages Year 5 and above.
Help Shape Our New Reconciliation Action Plan.
I am pleased to inform you that Haileybury Rendall School will be preparing a new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) during 2025.
Our RAP supports our school to build knowledge and pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures and contributions. You can read our 24/25 RAP here.
Through our RAP, we strengthen relationships, respect and opportunities in the classroom, around the school, and with the community.
Developing our RAP is a long-term commitment, one that requires ongoing consideration and collaborative effort. Within our community, there is unique knowledge and valuable experience that we would love to see reflected in the development and implementation of our RAP.
We are seeking your input and support so that our RAP creates meaningful change. This letter is a call to action for staff, parents, carers, students and community members to express their perspective on our approach to Reconciliation. We are particularly interested in the question:
To give your opinion, please send an email to Anthony Barker (Chair of the RAP Working Group) at anthony.barker@haileybury.com.au
This information will then be shared with the RAP Working Group. Members of the group are dedicated to driving Reconciliation within our school community, and lead the coordination and administration of RAP initiatives.
We’re building our RAP using Reconciliation Australia’s Narragunnawali program. Find out more about this excellent program: reconciliation.org.au/narragunnawali
Anthony Barker
Chair of the RAP Working Group
We are excited to announce that HRS instrumental students have the chance to perform in front of a live audience during our Cushion Concerts, held on selected Thursday lunchtimes. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to build their confidence, develop their musical skills, and experience the joy of performing live!
Performing in front of others has proven benefits, not only in boosting self-confidence, but also in improving academic achievement. Music and live performance help students develop discipline, focus, and resilience—skills that translate into greater success in the classroom.
If you are an instrumental student and would like to sign up for the next Cushion Concert, please speak with your music tutor or contact Mrs. Mau.
Our next concert is scheduled for Week 5, so don’t miss out on this chance to showcase your talent and gain invaluable experience!
We look forward to seeing you perform!
Welcome to 2025. It was an absolute pleasure to see so many familiar faces over the Christmas/New Year break, and in addition to that, a record-high number of faces walked through our doors. This will hold us in good stead for the upcoming year.
Clean Up Australia Day is just around the corner (Sunday, 2nd March) and on Wednesday, 26 February we will be doing our part for the community in a school grounds clean up. If you would like to be involved, enrol your child/ren now for this session., In other news, we have a new OSHC space, located just past our old OSHC room, towards the bottom football oval. Feel free to pop in if you haven’t already, check it out, or just come and say hello! Keep an eye on the next Newsletter for some updates on how Term 1 has begun. There will be some really fun photos to go with it.
Don’t forget to get your bookings in to reserve your spot with us. Limited spots are available.
Camp Australia
Email: nthaileyburyrendall@oshccampaustralia.com.au
The new school year has begun with excitement and enthusiasm at Haileybury Rendall School Early Learning Centre (ELC), where we warmly welcomed our two full Preschool classes and one Reception class. It has been a delight to see our young learners settle in so well, forming new friendships, building trust with their educators, and embracing the routines of school life.
We began the year with a fun-filled holiday program in early January, filled with a range of activities that encouraged exploration, creativity, and social interaction. This program provided a wonderful opportunity for children to transition smoothly into the new school year, helping them feel comfortable and confident as they stepped into their classrooms.
As the term commenced, we have placed a strong focus on well-being, understanding that a sense of security and belonging is the foundation for all learning. Our educators have been dedicated to creating warm, nurturing environments where children feel safe, valued, and heard. Establishing trust between students and teachers is essential in fostering a love for learning, encouraging curiosity, and supporting emotional resilience.
Relationships are at the heart of everything we do. Each day, children engage in activities that help them learn about one another—sharing their interests, discovering commonalities, and developing essential social skills. Through play, collaboration, and guided conversations, they are learning the importance of kindness, empathy, and respect for others. These early experiences help shape their confidence and ability to navigate social interactions with ease.
Alongside settling into classroom routines, our specialist classes have also commenced, offering students a rich and varied learning experience. Our students have eagerly participated in Music, Physical Education, Library, and Mandarin lessons. These subjects provide wonderful opportunities for self-expression, movement, creativity, and language development, all of which contribute to a well-rounded education.
It has been a pleasure to witness the children’s excitement as they explore, learn, and grow together. As the year unfolds, we look forward to continuing to nurture their sense of belonging, supporting their development, and celebrating their achievements. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead at Haileybury Rendall Early Learning Centre!
Michelle Shaw
Head of Early Learning Centre
We’ve had a fantastic start to the term, with students settling in wonderfully and adjusting to their routines. It’s been a busy and exciting few weeks, with many events already taking place!
One of the highlights of the term was our Student Leaders Assembly, a great opportunity for students to step into leadership roles and set the tone for the year ahead. We also kicked off our House Activities last Friday. These activities allowed students to get to know each other better and begin building their House spirit for the year. It was a wonderful way to create connections and start the year with enthusiasm and teamwork!
A very special highlight was our Meet and Greet event, where we welcomed many parents to spend the afternoon with us. It was heartwarming to see such a great turnout and to connect with our school community right at the start of the term.
As we continue to settle into the term, we kindly ask that you check your child’s uniform to ensure it is correct and in line with the school guidelines. Additionally, please remember that students can arrive at school from 8:00 AM and the classroom doors will be opened when the music starts to play. Punctuality is essential, as arriving on time allows students to set up for the day, be prepared, and not miss any valuable learning time. If your child arrives before 8:00 AM, we have before-school care facilities available for them to access.
Thank you for your ongoing support, and we look forward to a successful and rewarding term ahead!
Student recognition
Last year Scarlett (Year 7) was nominated and was successfully selected as the winning recipient of the prestigious Administrator’s Medal award. Scarlett received this award at a ceremony at Parliament House on 31 January. Well done, Scarlett, we are very proud of you!
Lisa Doyle
Head of Junior School
This week we received certificates for students who participated in the 2024 NT Chief Minister's Reading Challenge. The change of government last year interrupted the process, but the new Chief Minister has now signed the whopping 9,684 certificates of all the students who participated across the Territory. The HRS contribution was 44 students from Years 3 – 6, a wonderful effort.
To receive a certificate the students must read a minimum of 12 books in 3 months. Evidence shows that experiencing success in reading, leads to increased motivation to attempt even more difficult reading tasks. This contributes to higher achievement across all curriculum subjects. The Challenge encourages regular reading to build reading stamina and fluency - vital elements in reading success.
Congratulations to all those students who rose to the challenge. Let’s see if we can get even more readers on board this year!
Kym Diprose
Head of Library Services
On February 11, the Junior School celebrated Safer Internet Day, with activities continuing throughout the week to support students in developing essential online safety skills. Whether receiving their iPads for the first time or refreshing their knowledge, all students engaged in meaningful discussions and activities.
Our youngest students in Transition and Year 1 coloured in posters reinforcing the key message: Stop, Close, and Tell a Trusted Adult if they see something unsafe online. Year 1 and 2 explored why Safer Internet Day is important and sorted actions into safe and unsafe iPad use.
In Years 2 and 3, students took learning a step further by acting out online safety scenarios, and demonstrating how to respond to potential risks. Some Year 3 students created visuals using the Freeform app to represent safe online behaviours.
Years 4 and 5 engaged in a detailed brainstorm, discussing the importance of Safer Internet Day and key strategies for staying safe in an increasingly digital world.
These activities provided valuable learning opportunities, equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the online space safely and responsibly.
Marion Hoy
Computer Science Teacher
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.
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
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
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
Welcome to the 2025 school year! A special welcome to our new Senior School students and families.
As we settle in, students should focus on setting themselves up for success. Our Senior students are expected to lead by example in uniform, conduct, and work ethic. This year, we are emphasising a ‘Culture of Learning’, ensuring students are prepared each day. I look forward to seeing our Senior Students uphold these high standards.
Year 12 Prefects’ Trip to Melbourne
In the first full week, our 2025 Prefects and School Leaders travelled to Melbourne, visiting Haileybury’s City, Brighton, and Berwick campuses. They were warmly welcomed by Ms. Lucy Cummings (City Campus Head) and Mr. Gautier Bouchardeau (Year 12 Coordinator). A highlight was attending the Haileybury Founders Day assembly and experiencing the processional and bagpipes. Most importantly, the trip strengthened their bonds as leaders, a connection noted by accompanying staff, Ms. Stasey (Year 12 YLC) and Mr. Barker (Year 11 YLC).
Leadership & Achievements
Our Year 12 leaders encourage everyone to support fundraising efforts, including Valentine’s roses and the upcoming World’s Greatest Shave—a great way to show community spirit!
Congratulations to Amelia (Year 10) and Aidan (Year 10), selected for the NT Youth Round Table, a prestigious honour.
Further congratulations to Macey Sheridan, 2024 Junior Sportsperson of the Year, now a finalist for the 2025 NT Sports Awards.
Wishing everyone a successful and fulfilling year ahead!
Kylie Mobilia
Head of Senior School
Haileybury Rendall School is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Elijza (Year 10) who has been awarded the Singing for Leisure Grade 5 Prize for 2024 by AMEB SA & NT. This prestigious award recognizes Elijza’s outstanding dedication, perseverance, and musical excellence throughout the year.
Elijza’s hard work and passion for singing have truly set her apart, and this well-deserved recognition highlights not only her talent but also the unwavering support and guidance of our dedicated music department. Under the mentorship of her teacher, Elijza has demonstrated remarkable growth, refining her vocal skills and embracing every challenge with determination.
Her achievement will be formally announced at the Australia Music Examination Board SA & NT Awards Ceremony on Saturday, 5 April 2025, where she will have the opportunity to proudly represent our school as she receives her award alongside other top-performing students from across all regions.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Elijza on this incredible accomplishment. Her success is a testament to the power of dedication, expert teaching, and a passion for music. We look forward to seeing her continue to shine!
Ilona Martin
Head of Music
Leadership is a topic we often talk about at Haileybury Rendall School because we are all leaders here. That is students, staff, parents, and caregivers. We are leading the next generation into a very different world full of challenges with social media, climate uncertainty, and global issues that our young boarders are learning about every day.
We can say with pride that our Boarding Leaders are a shining example of youth who can listen and support others. Our Middle School Boarding Prefects, Jasper and Taitum, are mature, outgoing people who have the respect of their peers.
Our Senior School Boarding Prefects Hank and Monica bring a kind and calm presence to Boarding.
Boarding is a much wiser place thanks to our Prefects’ support, and I look forward to working with them in 2025.
Nick Eddy
Director of Boarding
In the spirit of Chinese New Year, HRS staff, boarding and day students, and International students, came together at Madjirra for a special dumpling-making event to celebrate this vibrant cultural festival. The kitchen was filled with laughter and excitement as students learned to make dumplings from scratch, a cherished tradition symbolising prosperity and togetherness.
Under the guidance of staff, students kneaded dough, prepared fillings, and crafted dumplings in various shapes and sizes. They experimented with different flavours, from classic pork and cabbage to creative vegetarian options, showcasing their culinary skills and teamwork.
Beyond the cooking, the event also highlighted the cultural significance of dumplings in Chinese New Year celebrations, where they represent wealth and good fortune for the coming year. This memorable celebration brought the HRS community closer, blending learning, creativity, and cultural appreciation. It was a perfect way to welcome the Year of the Snake with joy and unity.
Lei Shangguan
Head of Languages
Debbie Unwin
International Student Coordinator
Welcome to Stars 2025!
We are excited to introduce two new staff members, Alisha and Chantelle, who are eager to support our young Indigenous students on their learning journey. Both bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to nurturing the growth of our students, helping them navigate their educational paths with confidence and pride.
At Stars, we are dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships that empower young women to become strong leaders in their communities. Our foundation is built on encouraging these students to honor their commitment to education, respect themselves and others, and develop strong moral values. Through this, we aim to create a supportive environment that inspires personal growth and success, both in school and beyond.
The Stars room has been thoughtfully designed to offer our students a peaceful and supportive environment where they can take a moment to relax, reset, and refocus before diving into their daily lessons. We encourage the young learners to embrace this space, using it not only to recharge but also as a resource to help them better manage their learning experience. It is our belief that by taking pride in how they utilize these resources, our students can build confidence in their abilities and foster a deeper connection to their educational journey.
By providing a safe and caring environment, we aim to instill in our students the importance of our core values: Respect, Honesty, Commitment, and Pride. These values are central to everything we do at Stars, and we are dedicated to supporting our young women in understanding how to embody these principles both inside and outside of the classroom. We believe that when students feel valued and supported, they are more likely to develop a sense of self-respect and a commitment to their personal growth, which in turn strengthens their connection to the broader school community.
The foundation of our Stars program is built upon fostering healthy relationships, not just with peers but also with mentors and staff. These relationships are essential for creating a supportive and empowering environment where our students feel encouraged to take risks, ask questions, and explore their full potential. The bonds formed between students, mentors, and staff serve as a vital network of support that helps our young stars navigate challenges and celebrate successes together. With these strong connections, our students are better equipped to overcome obstacles, develop resilience, and grow into the confident leaders of tomorrow. Through these supportive relationships, we create an environment where our young women can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially, setting them up for success both in their educational journey and beyond.
Chantelle Ilett
Stars Program Mentor
In the spirit of reconciliation, Haileybury acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
© Haileybury Rendall School 2025 Compliance
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