Mr James Tamblyn
Work on the Senior Learning Centre (SLC) continues to progress well. The first-floor suspended slab was poured on Thursday, 15 August, marking a major step that will soon allow the scaffold to be removed and the building’s external structure to take shape. We continue to engage with students on final design elements and furniture. The project remains on track for completion by June 2025. Below are some images of the most recent concept design drawings, along with progress photos of the project.
SLC Concept Design Renders
SLC Progress – 14 & 15 August
NAPLAN Results
NAPLAN results were recently received by the College and individual student results have been distributed to families. Pedare’s results are again very strong, with students performing above or well above the national average in all tests at all year levels. I thank the staff and families for supporting students along their learning journey and congratulate our students for their outstanding engagement with learning.
While NAPLAN is only one of the many measures of student performance, the data provides opportunities for students, families and schools to gauge areas of strength and identify opportunities for growth. We have begun a thorough analysis of our results, including a comparison to school-assessed results and a review of the current support being provided to students.
Winter Sports Season
For many of our Middle and Senior teams, the winter sports season draws to a close over the next couple of weeks. I thank all students who have been involved in Pedare’s program over Terms 2 and 3. The number of netball, soccer and basketball teams continues to grow, and our students have positively represented Pedare while demonstrating excellent development. I also want to extend my gratitude to all staff and coaches involved, as well as to the parents who ensured students made it to matches, often very early on Saturday mornings.
Netball will continue throughout Term 3 as part of the SADNA competitions. Additionally, a new cricket pitch is being installed on Jackson Oval late in Term 3, bringing it up to contemporary standards and making this beautiful oval even more appealing for our young cricketers.
VEX IQ Middle School Robotics Tournament
It was fantastic to host the first VEX IQ Middle School Robotics Tournament of the 2024 season on Monday, 12 August. We welcomed students from Mt Barker High, Mark Oliphant College, Pembroke, Adelaide Botanic, Salisbury East High School, Woodcroft College and St John’s Grammar School. My thanks to all staff involved in facilitating this event and to the judges, who come from a range of industries across South Australia, who generously gave their time.
Congratulations to all Pedare teams who competed, and a special mention to our teams who qualified for the State Championships in October:
VEX Tournament (Years 6-8) – Monday, 12 August
Mrs Mandy Hore
This week, the College acknowledged ‘Bullying No Way’ Week. This is Australia’s key bullying prevention initiative. This year’s theme, ‘Everyone Belongs,’ resonates strongly across the College and is one of the many things I love about our community.
Pedare values the unique differences among people and their contributions. We are committed to actively embracing diversity, ensuring that these differences are utilised to treat everyone with respect and dignity.
We recognise that the diverse talents, skills and backgrounds of our students, staff and community shape our identity and contribute to our success. We celebrate diversity because it connects us to others’ lives and experiences, strengthens our capacity for empathy and understanding, and challenges our perspectives on people and society.
Additionally, a proactive group of Year 12 Society and Culture students initiated a social action project, working collaboratively with Year 3 students. Their goal was to help the younger students understand that when everyone feels a sense of belonging, unkindness struggles to find a place in our community. Anuska P, Grace C, Chelsea H, India C, Matilda D and Teejay B worked with students to help them embrace who they are, respect others’ differences and understand the importance of standing together against unkindness. They encouraged everyone to speak up, create a safe place where everyone feels supported and respected and ensure that all voices are heard and valued.
As part of their initiative, the group organised several activities including creating kindness rocks, making beaded purple bracelets and writing kind messages of support and encouragement on the pavers in Mains Street with chalk. They promoted the importance of checking in with each other, calling out any unkind behaviours and helping to create a safe place where everyone feels supported and respected.
‘Bullying No Way’ Week – 12-16 August
Community Dinners
This week, you will have received an invitation to our upcoming Community Dinners.
While not compulsory, we look forward to Year 6-12 students embracing the Italian theme, dressing with a touch of ‘fiesta’ and joining their communities for a night of fellowship, fun and connection.
Ms Lisa Daws
As the Olympic Games come to a close, we reflect on the thrilling celebration of athletic excellence, global unity and diversity. Our Junior School classrooms have embraced the 2024 Games, exploring the passion and skill of athletes who represented their countries with dedication. Their achievements remind us of the joy and power of coming together as a global community. This message of dedication and unity resonates throughout Junior School, reinforcing these important values in our learning journeys.
Year 2 Mini Olympic Games
This theme seamlessly aligned with the National Week of Action, centred on “Everyone Belongs” through ‘Bullying No Way.’ Emphasising inclusion and belonging, the Junior School held a Community lunch and participated in activities throughout the week to foster a supportive environment where every student feels valued.
When individuals experience a strong sense of belonging, bullying has less of a foothold. By embracing our unique identities, respecting differences and standing united against unkindness, we create a space where everyone can thrive. This shared experience has reinforced our commitment to inclusion and respect, helping to build a community where everyone feels they truly belong.
Community Lunch – Friday, 16 August
Sun Safety – Hats
The start of this week’s gorgeous weather brought sunshine, warmer mornings and excitement during playtimes. With spring approaching and brighter, warmer days ahead, I want to remind families to ensure that our students have their school hats with them each day this term. As the UV index rises, hats will be required on days when the UV index is 3 or above to maintain sun safety.
Coffee and Chat Mornings
This week, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and greeting families from MYR, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. It’s been a wonderful opportunity to connect with more families and build relationships.
I warmly invite you to join our upcoming Coffee and Chat Mornings. These events are a great way to enjoy a coffee, meet others and engage in friendly conversation. We look forward to seeing you there and connecting with you!
Junior School Coffee and Chat Morning – Wednesday, 14 August
Looking Forward to the Weeks Ahead
Next week is Book Week, and we’re celebrating the enchanting theme, “Reading is Magic.” Books open doors to new worlds, spark curiosity and foster empathy. Junior School parents are welcome to attend the annual Book Week Parade and Assembly on Friday, 23 August, to celebrate the magic of reading and the joy it brings to our children’s lives. We’re excited to see the students’ creative costumes as we celebrate this special week together!
Upcoming Reminders:
Mrs Eliza Buckoke
Middle School has been buzzing with activity this term, and I’m excited to share some of the highlights with you.
Last week, Year 9 students had a fantastic time at their camp in the Flinders Ranges. These Outdoor Education experiences provide a wonderful opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zones, embrace new challenges and build stronger relationships with their peers. It was heartening to see our students form new connections and support each other through the various activities.
Year 8 Sustainability students also had a unique opportunity to attend the Sustainable Futures Workshop at the Investigator College, Currency Creek Trade Skills Centre. This experience allowed them to deepen their understanding of sustainability and explore innovative ways to contribute positively to our environment.
Year 8 Sustainable Futures Workshop – Tuesday, 6 August
Middle School VEX Tournament
On Monday, 12 August, we had the pleasure of hosting the Middle School VEX Tournament in our Chapel. We were excited to host several schools, with around 40 of our Year 6 to 8 students participating in this thrilling event. The level of teamwork, creativity and problem-solving on display was truly impressive. Well done to all the students involved in this fantastic competition!
ABODA Band and Orchestra Festival
This week, two of our Music Ensembles proudly represented Pedare at the ABODA Band and Orchestra Festival, held at Westminster College. Their dedication and passion for music were evident as they performed alongside other talented young musicians.
Our theme for Worship this week was inspired by the verse, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). We celebrate the unique gifts and abilities of each of our students, and recognise that every student brings something special to our community.
As the term progresses, I look forward to seeing our students continue to engage in these enriching experiences that contribute to their growth and development.
Mr Josh Willis
Recently, Senior School student leaders have had the chance to engage in various networking opportunities, allowing them to connect with other leaders and hear from inspiring Australians who are making a significant difference in the community.
At the Inspiring Leaders Summit held at Botanic High School last Friday, 8 August, our student leaders heard from four Australians of the Year. These speakers shared unique perspectives on leadership and reinforced the belief that young people have the power to create real change.
Hearing their journeys served as a reminder that despite the challenges we face, each of us has the potential to make a lasting impact on our communities.
Anglican Schools Student Leadership Workshop
Being part of the Anglican Schools Network offers valuable networking opportunities for our students. On Thursday, 15 August, current and aspiring leaders participated in the Anglican Schools Student Leadership Workshop hosted by Walford Anglican School for Girls. The workshop focused on the themes of service, charity and justice, giving our young leaders an opportunity to deepen their understanding of these core values and how they can embody them within the College and the broader community. Through engaging activities and thought-provoking discussions, students explored the importance of service and charity not just as acts of goodwill but as fundamental responsibilities of leadership. They learned how these actions foster a sense of connectedness within communities while promoting the dignity and respect of all people.
A significant portion of the workshop focused on the theme of justice, encouraging our student leaders to think critically about fairness, equity and the role of advocacy in their lives. They were challenged to reflect on how they can promote justice within their school and society, including addressing issues such as poverty, inequality and environmental sustainability. After hearing the ideas from the young people in the room and their plans to serve their communities, it’s safe to say that the world is in good hands. We look forward to seeing the ideas they discussed come to life at Pedare.
Anglican Schools Student Leaders Workshop – Thursday, 15 August
“It was great to engage and connect with like-minded students from different backgrounds to discuss various perspectives on service and leadership.” — Connor L, Middle School Captain
“This workshop enabled us to connect with other school leaders and learn about different implementations of service that schools can adapt to and help the community.” — Kashvi A, Middle School Captain
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made
In Psalm 139, the Psalmist David praises God for how “fearfully and wonderfully made we are.” He says, “God, you were there from the beginning as we were being formed in our mother’s womb.” David knew how much God knows us.
In the absence of modern technology to explore the human body and mind, David, a shepherd boy, somehow knew how unique and marvelously made humans are. All this comes from outside of our own efforts. We are God’s.
The Olympics highlight the human capacity at its best; yet, we are not all athletes and scripture reminds us how individual we are. All of us are wonderfully made with much more than just unique fingerprints, eye patterns, ear shapes and tongue prints that no other human has. We are just right for the purpose-filled plans God has for us.
Constantly, we’re bombarded with messages telling us we are not enough, pressured to conform into something we are not. I encourage you to stand in front of a mirror. Stay a while. Just look at YOU – soak it in. Tell yourself, “There is no one like you. You are a wonder. I am fearfully and wonderfully made, loved by God who knows me well.”
Ms Miriam Smith, College Chaplain
2025 Cultural Tour of China
A reminder that the Parent Information Session for the 2025 Cultural Tour of China is scheduled for next Monday, 19 August, at 6 pm. Due to high interest, the session will now take place in the Wattle Centre.
The tour is planned for Thursday, 10 April, to Tuesday, 22 April 2025 and is open to all Pedare students who will be in Years 8-12 in 2025. This tour offers significant benefits for students’ Chinese language skills and will enhance their understanding of Chinese history and culture. The itinerary includes visits to Beijing, Jinan and Shanghai, with highlights such as the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Ancient Water Town and our affiliate schools in Jinan, where students will be paired with a Chinese language buddy.
Free Webinars: Developing Minds Psychology
Developing Minds, a South Australian-based paediatric psychology clinic, is offering a free webinar series designed to help parents and caregivers of primary-aged children understand common mental and emotional health challenges.
Webinar Series Details:
All registrations can be made on the Developing Minds website
ABODA Band and Orchestra Festival
Pedare music students had an outstanding week at the ABODA Band and Orchestra Festival.
Over four days at Westminster College, music students from across South Australia came together to perform and share their love of music. Our Advanced String Ensemble performed beautifully on Tuesday, 13 August, earning a silver award. On Thursday, 15 August, the Intermediate Concert Band played with incredible focus and musicality, also winning a silver award in a highly competitive category.
Congratulations to all our talented students on these impressive achievements. A special thank you to Mr Gerald Pederick, Mrs Eliza Buckoke and Ms Amy Suebwicha for their expert direction of these ensembles. We are extremely proud of our students’ hard work and dedication.
Mrs Nadine Stroud
In the unit “Where We Are in Place and Time,” Year 5 students explored trade and markets in different countries, along with various shopping styles influenced by different cultures.
As part of this unit, they went on an excursion to Chinatown. From visiting a Chinese grocery store to dining at a Chinese restaurant for Yum Cha, students gained a deeper understanding of how culture and tradition shape lifestyles. This excursion also provided them with a valuable opportunity to practice their Chinese language skills outside the classroom.
Mrs Grace Liu
For Science Week this year, the College buzzed with excitement as we explored the theme of Species Survival. It began with a captivating visit from Animals Anonymous, where students had the opportunity to interact with native animals and explore their unique adaptations for survival. Our Year 6 students took on the challenge of a Species Survival Escape Room, working together to solve puzzles and “escape” by applying their knowledge of ecosystems and species interactions.
We were also thrilled to host Guest Paleontologist Dr Felicity Cutts, who shared fascinating insights into the history of life on Earth with Earth Science students. The week concluded with a ‘Species Survival’ assembly hosted by Surrey with the survival of the fittest challenges.
Science Week was a huge success, inspiring our students to think critically about the challenges species face and the role we play in ensuring their survival.
Miss Hannah Dearman
Year 9 students embarked on an unforgettable camp last week in the stunning setting of the Flinders Ranges. Blessed with beautiful weather, the camp provided the perfect backdrop for a series of exciting and challenging activities that tested both physical and mental limits.
Students tackled a range of adventurous activities, including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, abseiling and trangia cooking. Despite some initial apprehension, they showed determination and enthusiasm, embracing each challenge with courage and a positive attitude. The solo night was a standout experience, with students demonstrating maturity and reverence.
The camp’s atmosphere was very positive, with strong teamwork and excellent behaviour. Year 9 camp will be remembered as a highlight of the school year, teaching important lessons in perseverance, resilience and self-confidence.
Mrs Bronwyn Dutch
Gurnaaz G:
Year 9 camp was so memorable. The fun we had with friends and the moments we shared will stay with me forever. Even though I faced some challenges, like carrying heavy bags, the overall experience was amazing. If I had the choice, I’d love to relive the camp again. It was a time filled with laughter, bonding, and unforgettable memories. The difficulties were just a small part of an experience that I’ll always cherish.
Charlotte G:
The Argadells camp in the Flinders Ranges was an unforgettable experience! Spending four days with friends and teachers allowed me to bond and make new friends. My favourite activities were rock climbing and mountain biking in the steep ranges, which helped me overcome my fear of heights. Though hiking was exhausting, our silly group conversations made it enjoyable. The breathtaking views of the red hills, pink sunsets, and unique plants made this trip special. This camp was iconic and left me with memories that will always hold on to me. I’m already looking forward to our next adventure!
Hana P:
Year 9 camp was one of the best school camps I've ever attended. I pushed myself to try activities I wasn't initially keen on, but they turned out to be worth it. Initially, I didn't want to go, but now I know I would have regretted missing it. I got closer to people I didn’t usually talk to, and those connections made the experience even more special. The stunning views, amazing stars, and the solo night in the outback were highlights. Despite the lack of showers, the camp's atmosphere and challenges made it unforgettable. I’m glad I went!
Harry C:
I won’t pretend I wasn’t nervous about the Year 9 camp—I've never been a fan of camping. But to my surprise, I ended up loving it. The bus ride was long, and the hikes were tough, with heavy bags and endless distances, but the good moments outweighed the bad. Singing by the campfire, roasting marshmallows, and laughing with friends made it all worth it. Facing my fear of heights through abseiling and riding fast on mountain bike trails were thrilling experiences. In the end, camp proved that even daunting moments can help you grow and become a better version of yourself.
Year 12 Physical Education students recently had the opportunity to visit the University of South Australia for hands-on testing within the Sports Science department. The day began with a sub-maximal test to observe how the body responds to temperature changes. Students first completed a 6-minute test at room temperature, then repeated the test in an environmental chamber set to 35 degrees with 70% humidity.
Following the sub-maximal test, students measured their body composition through hydrostatic (underwater) weighing and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The exercise physiology component concluded with a VO2 max test, where Zack P volunteered for the fatigue test, setting a new Pedare record with a VO2 max of 66.6 ml/kg/min, a heart rate of 198 bpm and a treadmill speed of 19 km/hr at a 1% incline. Well done, Zack!
After lunch, students moved to the biomechanics lab, where they collected data on their chosen activities using force plates and video analysis software.
A big thank you to the UniSA staff—Dr. Grant Van Der Ploeg, Dr. John Arnold, Ashlee Munro and the exercise physiology students—for providing such a valuable experience for the students.
Mr Damien Hutchings
Students participating in the SAAS Weekly Sports Competition joined in the Pink Round to support Australians affected by breast cancer. Students were encouraged to wear pink to raise awareness, foster discussions and show solidarity with the more than 20,000 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
Well done to all our students who participated and offered their support.
The Pedare Extra-Curricular Team are excited to bring you a new portal, containing information and links all in one location to our Sports and Clubs program.
The Portal is updated regularly to bring you the latest news, announcements, updates, results and more of Pedare Extra-curricular activities and events.
Tea Tree Gully Anglican Church is a group of Christians who seek to serve Jesus in everything we do. Whether you are just visiting or looking for a Christian home, we aim to be a loving and supportive family for you.
On Sundays, we meet at the church at 8.30 am, 10.00 am and 6.00 pm. If you want to discover what the bible says Christianity is all about, join one of the numerous weekly bible discussion groups, or want to find out about our Kids Club (R-6) from 3:30-5pm and Youth group (Y7-12) from 7-9pm that both operate on a weekly basis during school terms.
Please visit our website (https://ttganglican.org.au/) or contact Rick Maude at rick@ttgAnglican.org.au for details.
Gully Church hosts the ‘local and friendly’ Banksia Markets on the first Saturday of each month from 8.30 am to 1.00 pm at 600 Milne Road, Banksia Park. Stalls inside the hall and in the car park include produce, fresh fruit and vegetables, jewellery, tools, bric-à-brac and lots more.
For more information, contact the Gully Church website at https://www.ttguc.org.au/ or email office@gullychurch.org.au
Golden Grove Uniting Church, corner of Crouch and One Tree Hill Road, Golden Grove, has a traditional service at 10 am on a Sunday. Also, on the second and fourth Sunday of the month, we have a cafe-style church, a relaxed contemporary worship service at 6 pm in the Church hall.
Café Youth is a fun, interactive program for young people ages 14 and up looking to engage in topics of faith. Café Youth sessions start with a fun 30-minute activity based on the theme for the night, then followed by “Talk Time”, during which the group discusses a topic of faith while enjoying delicious snacks, refreshments and pizza! The cost for each session is $5.
For further information, please contact the Office at 8251 4298 or email office@goldengroveuniting.org.au You can even check our webpage: https://www.goldengroveuniting.org.au