From the Deputy Headmaster

Advice to Parents and Students

I would like to acknowledge the efforts and thank the graduating class of 2023 for their superb contribution to the academic, pastoral, spiritual and co-curricular life of the school. There are now only six weeks of formal schooling left at Newington, hence, I am writing to outline our plans to ensure that the last weeks of term are both positive and memorable.

Please use the following information to start a conversation to ensure that everyone fully embraces the opportunities presented.

Examination Preparation

Our students focus must be on examination preparation as there is still a significant amount that can be achieved during the final weeks that remain.

Our teachers will spend the weeks after the trials completing courses, assisting students with revision, and preparing them for their final examinations.

Unfortunately, I have seen students not engage appropriately in classes and activities at this time of year, and as such have difficulty remaining focussed. Therefore, it is crucial that expectations are clear and consistent, and the students are part of the conversation in setting these expectations. Please note that all classes are compulsory with more details provided below for the IB and HSC students.

Presentation

It is most important that all students present themselves in a positive way for class. That includes uniform, hair, shaving and punctuality in attendance. Please remember that Full College Prefecture will be determined this term and that the influence our leaders have on the younger students is stronger than ever at this time of year. During the Trial Exams, students are to attend in full school uniform.

HSC

The Higher School Certificate examinations commence on Wednesday 11 October. The timetable is available through New Spaces and the NESA (BOSTES) website.

HSC assessment ranks will be available to students via Students Online after the final written exam on 3 November for four weeks. It is imperative that students check their ranks and report any concerns to Ms Rebecca Panagopoulos, Director of Studies.

HSC results are released to students on Thursday 14 December via Schools Online. ATARS are released to students by UAC on the same date, Thursday 14 December.

Find the full HSC Examination timetable provided by the NSW Education Standards Authority here. 

After the release of results, students are invited to a breakfast BBQ on Thursday 14 December at 10.00am outside Centenary Hall to celebrate their achievement. We look forward to seeing them on that day and sharing in their success.

IBDP

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme examinations commence on day Friday 20 October and finish on Friday 10 November.

IB results are available to the College on 3 January and will be available to students via IBIS mid-morning.

Find the 2023 Diploma Programme Examination Schedule here.

Ongoing Support

During the Term 3 break, prior to the commencement of the exams, there will be a range of support offered to the students to maintain their momentum and assist their preparation for the exams. This will include structured revision workshops across IB and HSC subjects, supervised trial and sample examination papers, access to the College Library throughout the holidays. More information about the specifics of this support will be distributed by Ms Bateren, Senior Years Advisor, as we move through Term 3.

References

Finally, testimonials (the College reference) are available upon request by contacting your child’s Head of House. Should students require a reference for a specific submission, your child should also contact his Head of House.

A significant chapter of your child’s life is coming to a close, and we ask for your support to encourage all students to appreciate and enjoy the various events we hold in their honour over the weeks ahead.

I am sure you will appreciate that a great deal of time and effort has been invested by staff to ensure that all students are provided with a farewell that honours their contribution to this College and its 160 years of tradition. Hence, all Year 12 are advised not to compromise their final weeks at Newington.

  • Zero tolerance will be shown for any inappropriate behaviour that damages property, personal safety or threatens the safety of others in our direct community and the general public.
  • Visiting any other schools during this time of the year is prohibited. Unfortunately, we have in the past dealt with several good students who have made poor decisions at this time of year.
  • A student’s failure to consider other people and the consequences of their actions has led to some students being prohibited from attending Valedictory Day.
  • Loss of Prefecture, possible suspension, and the requirement to sit examinations elsewhere can result from any of the above behaviours and for poor decisions – and potentially irrespective of previous good behaviour records.

Should there be any issues that are difficult to resolve, please contact me, Mr Neil Scotney or Ms Amy Van Arkkels to ensure we make these final weeks a huge success, and a fitting farewell.

Mr Andy Quinane
Deputy Headmaster