2024 Term 1 Week 3 16 Feb 2024

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The start of the School year has been a good opportunity for parents and members of the School community to reconnect. I’ve been heartened by the attendance at recent school welcome events in the various subschools, including the Stage 3 evening on Monday night.

The Preschool to Year 4 Parent information evening later today will round out what has been an uplifting time of welcoming parents to the School. Of particular note has been the quality of conversations and information sharing and the strong support for the School.

Our school recognised Ash Wednesday across both campuses this week. In those Services, Reverend Constantine asked us to consider how we may add some “tenderness, kindness, and silence" to our lives during Lent. We were asked what we might take up or give up in the 40 days during Lent and as we prepare for the celebration of Easter.

Students were invited to be marked with a cross from ashes that were blessed at the Palm Sunday Service held at St Cuthbert’s Parish in 2023, with those crosses being burnt the evening before Ash Wednesday. As an Anglican School, we observe the special dates in the Christian calendar, and we will conclude the time of Lent as a school when we host our Easter Services later this term. I want to thank students for their positive engagement in our Ash Wednesday Services.

Preceding Ash Wednesday, many will know that Shrove Tuesday is an important day on the Christian calendar. It is the last day before Lent when many people fast or give up something they love. It is a reminder of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and his withdrawal into the desert for 40 days.

It is widely known that Shrove Tuesday is also called Pancake Day. I would like to express my gratitude to our Prefects for organising a fundraiser on this day with the assistance of Reverend Constantine, Ms Lia Mason, Mrs Hayley McDonald, and the Hospitality Students. They cooked and served more than 1800 pancakes, which is a remarkable display of compassion in action.

This week, our School received national coverage through ABC TV concerning the enrolment growth being experienced across Independent Schools in New South Wales. The ABC decided to profile a regional school, and Lindisfarne was asked to be part of the story by AISNSW. Overall, the ABC TV coverage was positive for the School, and I have received some very good feedback.

From January 2025, both our existing campuses at Lindisfarne will be fully enrolled. A reminder to current families still to enrol siblings for 2025 that the cut off for sibling preference for 2025 is 23 February 2024.

Enrolment demand for future years 2025 and beyond is very strong, and if you know of families considering enrolment at Lindisfarne in future years, it is important that they enrol now.

Congratulations to Jeff Dunne year 11 student who, as you are aware, has been selected to represent Australia at the Paris Olympic Games this year in the Sport of Breaking. A Current Affair has profiled Jeff, his coach, and his family, who will be featured on Channel 9 tonight at 7:00 pm.

Season launches for two of the premier sporting programs at Lindisfarne take place this week. Last night, it was a pleasure to officially get the 2024 Rugby Season underway. Thank you to all who attended, and congratulations to Dr Joseph Coyne for his work in leading the program. The special guest was former Super Rugby player for the Auckland Blues and Fijian Drua Baden Kerr, who was very capably interviewed by two of our Lindisfarne Lions, Bonnie Starling and Tucker Groves. Baden Kerr shared his story and journey from a 15 year old playing his first Rugby game at school to his days as a professional Rugby player around the world and his ambitions to now pursue teaching as a profession. Rugby captains Will Sullivan and Ruby Power did a wonderful job assisting throughout the evening.

On Saturday afternoon, the 2024 Netball season will be officially launched. Our Teacher in Charge of Netball, Suzanne Evans, has done a lot of work to plan a special day for our players and supporters. Our Head of Sports and Activities has worked closely with Suzanne to strengthen the Netball program and offering further. We are very much looking forward to welcoming our parents and Lindisfarne Lions to our season launch.

Tonight, I look forward to seeing many parents in attendance at the annual Principal and P&F Welcome event that will be hosted this year at our Junior School campus at Sunshine Avenue Tweed Heads. All are welcome to attend.

On Saturday morning we will welcome 170 students to the school who will undertake annual Scholarship testing. Scholarships to Lindisfarne are keenly contested, and we congratulate all of the applicants who have stepped forward to complete the Edutest program this year.

As we round out another positive week of learning and achievement at Lindisfarne, I thank all families for your ongoing support and trust that you have some downtime over the weekend ahead.

Stuart Marquardt
Principal

Dear Students, Staff, Parents and Guardians,

Lenten Journey

On Ash Wednesday some years ago I was speaking to a group of Year 6 students in my former parish about Lent, and I asked what they thought we do in Lent; one of the kids responded: “Reverend Constantine, it is a time when we get ready to eat the Easter bunnies.” We have to get our priorities right, don’t we?

Last Wednesday we began the journey of Lent with Ash Wednesday Services at our Mahers Lane Campus. Our Junior Campus will have a Service to mark the beginning of Lent next Monday during Chapel time.

Lent is forty days of honesty: honesty with God, with each other and with ourselves. It is a time of going into the desert like Jesus in the Gospel (cf. Matthew 4:1-11). In the Bible the desert is a place of struggle and testing, but also a place where God is encountered. In the book of Hosea, God said, I will lure my people to the desert and speak gently to her (cf. Hosea 2:4).

Lent is therefore the time of going into ‘the desert of our hearts’ to discover God and to struggle with the evil that lies hidden in our hearts. It is a time of spiritual garage sale, if you like, and of stock taking.

To help us to draw closer to God and to empty our hearts of the excess baggage we carry, the Church proposes prayer, fasting and almsgiving (works of charity) as the pillars of the Lenten journey. How might we make more time for prayer these next six weeks? How might we deny ourselves certain pleasures and comforts so as to get closer to God and grow in our spiritual life? How might we open our hearts to the needs in our world and share our good fortune with those who have less than we do?

Lent is more than just giving up coffee, chocolate and wine, it goes deeper than that, and invites us to repent (literally change our minds) and receive God’s immense and immeasurable love for all creation. For it is in this love that our lives are anchored and everlasting, and the rejection of this love is at the root of all the socio-economic, cultural and ecological crises that we face.

As Julian of Norwich aptly said, “let us merrily and gladly live our lives because of God's love” which on the Cross overcame all suffering, evil, sin and death.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Sales

Thank you to all the families who purchased pancakes last Tuesday to help us celebrate Shrove Tuesday but also to raise funds to assist all the children and young people of the Middle East impacted by the terrible war and to send pallets of stationery and other items to the poor in Nigeria. Your compassion is greatly appreciated!

A Prayer by St Augustine

O Lord,

in whom we live and move and have our being,

You have made us for yourself;

And our hearts are restless until they find their rest in You.

Amen.

I wish you a restful, joyful and relaxing weekend filled with God’s richest blessings in every way.

Thank you for who you are and for all you do!

Rev Constantine Osuchukwu
Chaplain

Accounts Department

ANNUAL FEES DUE DATE – TUESDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2024

All Annual Fee Calculations are now up to date and requests have now closed.

To receive your discount, the full years fee is due next Tuesday 20 February 2024.

We apologise for the delay in replying to everyone and we thank you all for your patience.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

At the start of 2024, we will begin drawing up our lists of submitted applications from families seeking enrolment places for the 2025 school year.

Current families must ensure that siblings are enrolled for the 2025 school year as soon as possible. Sibling priority will be given to all sibling applications received prior to Friday, 23 February.

The enrolment process has never been easier. Please use the link below to make an application.

Lindisfarne Enrolment Applications

Kind regards,

Simon McKinley
Director of Community Engagement

Psychology News

1-2-3 Magic and Emotion Coaching ParentEd Workshops

We are once again pleased to be able to offer the 1-2-3 Magic® & Emotion Coaching program for parents of children aged 2-12 years as part of ParentEd. In these workshops parents will learn how to respond effectively to early signs of emotional distress and manage challenging behaviours without arguing and yelling. By using 1-2-3 Magic® & Emotion Coaching, parents can be better prepared to help their children manage their emotions and behaviour in a positive way.

Please use the link to book your place. TryBooking

Julie Henry 
Junior School Psychologist

Dates for Term 1

Please find below some Term 1 - Junior School key dates to add to your calendar:

• Thursday 22 February (week 4) - NCIS Primary Swimming Carnival

• Tuesday 5 March (week 6) - Byron Bay 7’s Rugby Union Gala Day

• Friday 8 March (week 6) - Yr 3 & 4 Fitzpatrick Shield Hockey Gala Day

• Friday 22 March (week 8) - Pre-school - Year 2 FUN Cross Country

• Wednesday 27 March (week 9) - CIS Primary Swimming Carnival

• Thursday 4 April (week 10) - NSW Rugby 7’s Gala Day

• Thursday 11 April (week 11) - Years 3 - 12 Lindisfarne Cross Country Carnival,

• 
  

Total Football Academy - After school Program

The Total Football Academy after school program has kicked off, and will continue until week 11 Monday 8 April. Please note there will be NO session on Easter Monday 1 April.

There are still a small number of vacancies, these will be filled on a first come first basis, so if you are interested please sign up ASAP. To register, accept and make payment on Parent Lounge.

This program will be run again in term 2, 3 and possibly term 4 this year for those who miss out..

Information about the program can be found in the Flyer here : AFS Lindisfarne- Term 1 2024.pdf

Runners Club

The Runners Club kicked off this week at Sunshine Avenue. Both days were well supported with lots of students and lots of parents joining in the FUN.

The purpose of the Runners Club is to assist in the running development of our school students and preparation for the upcoming Cross Country competitions.

Last year the Runners Club was a great success with students and parents joining in to improve their running, fitness or just to spend time with each other doing a physical activity. Students in years 1 - 4 are welcome to attend.

Runners Club Training days will be Monday and Wednesday morning, meet Mr Croft at the Arkinstall Park back gate. The training sessions will begin at 7.30am sharp and will conclude by 8.15am.

Students can wear any type of running clothing to the sessions, however they will be required to bring along their school uniform to change into after the completion of the session.

Students will be given time to change and have something to eat before the first bell at 8.45am. Parents and carers are more than welcome to come along and join in.

Students attending the Runners Club can gain awards by completing a cumulative total of 25 km - Half Marathon, 42 km - Marathon or 50+km - Ultra Marathon over the term. Certificates for these achievements will be awarded on assembly.

Fitzpatrick Shield - Year 3 & 4 Hockey Gala Day

The annual Fitzpatrick Shield 6-A-Side Hockey Gala Day will be taking place at the Tweed Hockey Centre Murwillumbah on Friday 8 March (week 6). A meeting of students took place this week. If your child missed the meeting, however is interested in competing please contact Mr Croft via email ncroft@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au.

Those interested Year 3 and 4 students will receive information on registration and payment.

Where: Hockey Tweed Barrie Smith Fields Murwillumbah

When: Friday 8 March (week 6)

Who: Selected Year 3 and 4 students

Hockey After School Program

Casuarina Hockey Club will be again holding an after school hockey program. The 6 week program will focus on the skills and development of players both new to hockey and regular players. This program will only cater to a small number of participants to give quality one-on-one coaching and small group instruction.

The Program will run on a Tuesday afternoon from 3.15pm and will begin on March 5. To register for the program please accept and make payment on Parent Lounge. As there is limited space available, places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

Venue: Sunshine Avenue back oval and Basketball Court.

Dates: Tuesday 5, 12, 19, and 26 March and Tuesday 2, and 9 April.

Cost: $50 per student

Maximum number of Students: 20

Rugby Union - Byron Bay 7-A-Side Gala Day

The Byron Bay Rugby 7’s Gala day will take place on Tuesday 5 March. Sunshine Avenue Campus will be entering two teams to participate in this event.

A meeting was held on Tuesday this week to gauge interest. If your child missed the meeting please email Mr Croft ncroft@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au.

A maximum of 20 students can be selected to participate in the Gala Day, Students in Year 4 will be given priority to participate, with selection trials for the remaining places if required.

Once selected the teams will train at Lunchtime with Mr Croft, more information relating to the Gala day and training times and days will be sent to the selected students.

Spotlight on Students Sports

Over the weekend Miller Blue Glenister competed in the South Coast Regional Athletics Championships. Miller Blue had a fantastic day, qualifying through to the QLD State Championships with a 2nd place in the 70m Sprint, 2nd place in the Long Jump and 1st place in the Hurdles.

Congratulations Miller Blue, good luck at the QLD State Championships.

General Information

All information relating to Sporting programs, Gala Days and Sporting Competitions run at the Junior Campus will be advertised at assemblies and in the Newsletter. Information will then be sent home to interested students and parents. Please keep an eye on the Newsletter for relevant information, events and sports meetings throughout the year.

The Heroes of Discovery- Junior School

This week at our Junior School assembly, we were thrilled to introduce our very first Round Square Hero of Discovery, Responsibly Rami, to our students. Rami embodies the virtues of responsibility, kindness, and compassion, serving as an inspiring role model for our young learners.

In classrooms, teachers are engaging students with Rami's Hero story and leading discussions on how we can embody these virtues in various settings—whether in the classroom, on the playground, at home, or within the community.

To add to the excitement Junior School staff are ‘hero seeking’ and rewarding these positive character traits with hero tickets as they are observed, which is creating quite the buzz!

All of the hero tickets are collected in the classroom and will be going in a prize draw to be drawn at our next assembly.

We can't wait to share some of our hero stories and celebrate our winners during our Week 5 assembly, further inspiring our school community to strive for greatness.

Stay tuned as we continue to foster a culture of responsibility, kindness and compassion, one hero at a time.

Angela Mundy
Dean of Students - Junior School

Transition

What a delight to share the fantastic news about the transition Year 5 students have made into life at the Mahers Lane Campus of Lindisfarne. These young learners have not just settled; they have thrived, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

The students have embraced collaboration, demonstrating their ability to work harmoniously as a team. Navigating the larger campus with enthusiasm, they have adapted to new routines. Specialist lessons in Music and Visual Arts have been a hit, unleashing their creative potentials.

Additionally, they enjoyed their first week of Friday afternoon sports, showcasing their enthusiasm for physical activity and team sports. The students embraced the house culture at the Middle School swimming carnival, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition. They have also immersed themselves in Middle School Assemblies, Chapel and an Ash Wednesday Service under the guidance of Mrs Cox and Reverend Constantine.

The introduction to the DiscoverEd program, designed around the Round Square ideals, has been met with excitement and curiosity. Students have eagerly explored this innovative initiative, fostering a love for learning that goes beyond the traditional classroom setting.

Social connections have flourished as well, with new friendships blossoming among the Year 5 cohort. The positive energy and enthusiasm are palpable, creating an environment conducive to both personal and academic growth.

It is clear that Year 5 at the Mahers Lane Campus have embarked on a journey filled with joy, camaraderie, and success. I look forward to witnessing their continued growth and achievements throughout the year.

Amber Jarvis
Year 5 Coordinator

As we come to the end of another eventful week at our Senior School, I am filled with gratitude and pride in our vibrant community. It is inspiring to witness the number of ways in which we come together, celebrate, and support one another.

This week, we embraced the spirit of Shrove Tuesday with enthusiasm, thanks to the efforts of our Food Services Team. The pancake feast not only served as a delicious treat but also marked a significant fundraiser event, setting the tone for the commencement of Lent. I extend my thanks to everyone involved in making this day a memorable one.

Following the joy of Pancake Tuesday, we gathered for the Ash Wednesday Service, a solemn occasion that signifies the beginning of Lent. The Reverend Constantine delivered a touching sermon that beautifully intertwined the themes of Valentine's Day with the story of Julian of Norwich, offering us profound insights into love, compassion, and hope. His words served as a gentle reminder of the strength found in faith and community, and I am grateful for the spiritual guidance he provides to the Senior School.

The artistic achievements of our community were also in the spotlight as we celebrated the stunning achievements of our 2023 alumna, Jacinta Kieffer, at ARTEXPRESS in Sydney last weekend. It was a joy to witness the beautiful body of work she has created, testimony to the talent and dedication nurtured within our school. Congratulations to Jacinta for her remarkable accomplishments.

Our sporting spirit was equally palpable at last night's Rugby season launch, which saw an impressive turnout from both students and parents. The enthusiasm and camaraderie displayed were heartening, underscoring the importance of sports in fostering teamwork, discipline, and school spirit. I look forward to the Netball season launch this weekend, confident it will be met with the same level of support.

Additionally, this afternoon marked a significant milestone for our Year 11 students as we hosted the University Roadshow. This event offered our students a comprehensive overview of the pathways available to them beyond school, equipping them with the knowledge and insights needed to make informed decisions about their future. I would like to extend a special word of gratitude to Mrs Lauren Ward, Director of Careers and VET, for her unwavering support and dedication to our students during this important phase of their academic journey. Her commitment to guiding and assisting our students in exploring their post-school options is commendable. 

On a final note, I wish to extend my appreciation to our parent community for your unwavering support in helping our students uphold the School's expectations concerning uniform and appearance. Our policies are designed to enhance the learning environment, instill self-discipline, and prepare our students for life beyond school. Your engagement is invaluable to our continuous efforts to cultivate a nurturing and respectful school community.

Kate Cornell 
Head Senior School 

The Rite Journey

The Rite Journey is a unique programme designed to support the development of self-aware, vital, responsible and resilient adults. At Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School, this program assists our Year 9 students on their journey from childhood to adulthood.

I would like to thank the parents and carers who were able to attend our Parent Information Evening on Monday, 5 February. Your support was much appreciated.

Our Rite Journey teachers are all invested in teaching this program. However, we have found that the triangular partnership with The Rite Journey teacher, student and parent truly makes it a success. The students, who are supported by their parents and engage in their Rite Journey lessons, get the most out of this program.

Below are The Rite Journey events and dates. We invite parents to join us for the Departure Ceremony and Homecoming Ceremony. Parents play a significant role in the Departure Ceremony. More information about these ceremonies will be shared with you early next week.

It is a privilege for us to teach The Rite Journey. We feel strongly about the program, and we are invested in giving students the best experience possible as we take this journey from childhood to adulthood with them.

Cathy Myers
The Rite Journey Co-ordinator

Wellio article for Newsletter

As part of our ongoing commitment to strengthening the Pastoral Care programs at Lindisfarne in 2024, the Pastoral Care team has subscribed to an online platform called Wellio. Wellio aims to increase the cognitive, social and emotional resilience of students, equipping them with the skills required to interact positively with others in the school community and beyond. The lessons are high quality and are designed to be delivered by your child’s tutor in pastoral care sessions, allowing for open and honest communication as well as personal growth.

A different topic relevant to young people will be delivered each week and the lesson sequence provides students and staff with the opportunity to discuss topical issues in a safe and supportive environment.

Term 1 Wellio Program

If you have any questions about the program, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Mr Nathan Alterator
Dean of Students (9-12)

NCIS Primary Football

In the scorching heat, both boys and girls showcased their talents at the NCIS primary football event in Coffs Harbour last Wednesday 14th.

Despite an initial close loss, the girls' team demonstrated remarkable improvement, concluding the event with 1 loss, 1 draw, and a well-deserved win, securing a commendable 2nd place overall.

The boys' team, exhibiting outstanding skills, notched up 2 wins, a draw, and a single loss. Their performance suggests a bright future for LAGS football teams in the upcoming years.

A heartfelt congratulations to all the students who not only endured the challenging conditions but also represented their school with pride. It was truly a wonderful effort from everyone involved.

Congratulations to Oliver Bowes and Jack Kane for making the NCIS Representative team.

Swimming Carnivals

Thank you for all your contributions towards successfully completing the Swimming Carnivals last week. Our students lighting up the Murwillumbah Aquatic Centre early in the year is always a standout within our sporting calendar.

A massive 'thank you' to the large volume of the Lindisfarne staff team who chip in to get this event done with style, including teaching staff, bus drivers, maintenance & PA crew, Sport/PE team and a litany of other individuals who assisted to execute the day.

Full Carnival Results

The merged Junior/Middle/Senior Carnival results are linked below. It was clear sailing on the Senior School Carnival; however, the Junior/Middle School Carnival needed backtracking and sorting through Chieftimekeeper's records to double-check and reroute some results.

Lindisfarne Swimming Carnivals - Full Results

Lindisfarne Age Champions

Congratulations to our boys and girls who earned this award. Badges will be awarded in respective assemblies. Lindisfarne Age Champions

Point Score

St Margarets won by lengths and lengths of the pool!

Pointscore (Raw)

Adjusted point score adjusted scores based on House sizes - St Margarets and St Hilda are new houses.

Record Breakers

Congratulations to the record-breakers. May your names live long in the program for many years to come! Record Breakers

March Past results

A very slick array of performances from our creative students, and judges is placed below:

1st - St Barnabas

2nd - St Hilda

3rd - St Stephen

4th - St Andrew

5th - St Cuthbert

6th - St Margaret

NCIS Primary Representative Links

Please find the Primary team roster and breakdowns below - with the top 3 placegetters from each event going through (please remember we recalibrate results back into 8-10 years for all but 50 freestyle for representative slots).

Lindisfarne Primary Representative Team links:

Relay teams

Entries by name

Entries by event

Primary Athlete Roster

Lindisfarne Secondary Representative Team links:

Please find the Secondary team roster and breakdowns below:

Relay team

Entries by name

Entries by event

Secondary Athlete Roster

NCIS Tennis

Results

Spotlight on Daniel Challis

Daniel Challis won a gold medal in Javelin, a silver medal in Shot Put, a silver medal in Discus at the Regional Little Athletic event held in The Tweed last weekend. Daniel also qualified for the state carnival in the 100- and 300-metre hurdles.

Congratulations Daniel!

Spotlight on Ned Simmonds

Ned took out the U10’s 50m Breaststroke just outside his PB at the QLD State Swimming Championships. He stood up under pressure as the favourite and got the job done - and is QLD Champion. Obviously a great result for young Ned as he prepares for his tilt at the school based representative levels now - beginning with NCIS next week.

Hockey

Lindisfarne Hockey Coaching Squad

Middle School (Yrs 5 to 8) - Beginner/Intermediate Skills, Drills and Games

When: Monday 7 am to 8 am, Week 4 until the end of Term 1.

Where: LAGS Courts

Cost: $10 per session maximum of 30 students

Sign-up will be on Clipboard under Small Group Sessions - here.

1st XV Trial

We had our 1st XV trial yesterday for all boys in the under 18 squad. This was a great opportunity to see some of the new players in our program as well as boys stepping up from the U15s last year compete against our older established players from last year. It also gave the boys a taste of the tactical structures that Mr Gear, our 1st XV coach, is putting in place for 2024. Although the trial was scrappy in attack at times, one of the pleasing aspects of the trial was the level of intensity and skill on defence, which bodes well for our future games.

2024 Rugby Union Program Season Launch

We all had a great evening at the Lindisfarne Rugby Union Program 2024 Season Launch at Pioneer Country last night. The Season Launch was an event for all year 5 - 12 students (boy or girl) who wish to play or were interested in playing for the school in rugby union this year, along with their parents/guardians. The highlight of the launch was a Q&A with Mr Baden Kerr, who is a former Super rugby player for Auckland Blues and Fiji Drua, conducted by two students, Tucker Groves and Bonnie Starling. In the Q&A, Mr Kerr shared a number of memories playing schoolboy and professional rugby as well as the best players he got a chance to play with and his favourite destinations he had been to on his professional rugby journey.

KEY DATES

Please see upcoming key dates for our boys’ and girls’ program below. You can find the full list of key dates HERE.

Boy’s

OTHER ITEMS

NCIS Boys Under 16 and Under 18 Representative Trials

The NCIS trial is the first step in the NSW schoolboy rugby representative pathway for students at our school.

Some important notes:

• If you are interested in trialling for the U16 or U18 NCIS team, please submit your entry to this Google form HERE before 10am on 21st February

• Following this, you will also need to complete the Permission to Trial form HERE before 10am on 5th March

• Please note these deadlines are STRICT and if these forms are not completed by the dates above, students will not be able to trial

• If selected in either team, you must be available for the AICES trial on the 28th May in Sydney, which costs $495 excluding travel and meals.

• Please talk to your respective coaches if you are not sure if you would like to participate in these trials.

• If you are interested in the schoolboy rugby representative pathways in NSW, please look at this link HERE

We encourage all students interested to trial for these NCIS teams. Last year, we had seven Lindisfarne students selected across the AICES U16 and U18 teams, which is the next step in NSW schoolboy rugby representative pathway after selection for NCIS (similar to CIS teams in other school sports). It would be a great achievement to match or better that number of selections this year.

Any questions, please let Dr Coyne or Mr Dick know.

Age Grade Dispensations

This is a quick note on age grade dispensations for our school rugby program and more information on this age grade dispensation process from Rugby Australia can be found HERE.

There are two reasons for age grade dispensation within our school program:

• Playing up an age grade.

  • This will apply to all our U16 players who are in our 1st XV and 2nd XV squads. If you or your child were 15 years old on the 1st January 2023, we need you to complete a Rugby AU age grade dispensation form (link HERE) to continue playing for our 1st or 2nd XV.

• Playing down an age grade.

  • This will apply to any students who have moved up an age grade and whose stature would be better suited to remaining in a younger age grade. For example, a player who turned 13 in December 2022 but is very small for their age could continue to play in the U13 grade in 2023 with dispensation.

We will have an assessing coach from NSW Rugby come into the school on Thursday 15th February at 1200 (during integrated school sport) to determine our students suitability to play up or down an age grade.

If you would like to play up or down an age grade and parents/guardians are agreeable to this, please sign and return the form in this link HERE ASAP so we can flag this with the NSW Rugby assessing coach.

If you have any questions about the process or suitability of age grade dispensation, please let us know as we are more than happy to chat through this process and make sure all our students have positive experiences in this great game.

Car-Pooling and Volunteer Work

With a number of students living some distance from Lindisfarne and given the nature of the program (e.g., Monday after school training in 2024, evening pick-ups after games), we would like to make getting the students to and from training/games as efficient as possible for you all.

With a school like ours, one of the best options for this is car-pooling with families from nearby suburbs. So if you are interested in car-pooling with other families for rugby training/games, can you please fill out this form HERE.

Another item that we need assistance with as we grow our program is some light volunteer work (e.g., supervising a BBQ) at home games. If you are able to assist in any way at home games, can you please fill out the same form HERE.

We will share the contact details of other parents/students that have registered for car-pooling late next week so please complete this form ASAP if interested.

Monday After School Training

In 2024, our main training session outside of school time is on Monday after school from 1530-1645. Although we had great numbers to our first training sessions, rugby union is a team sport and we still need as many of our players to be in attendance week in and week out to grow the Lindisfarne rugby program. Hopefully, the car-pooling details will help this and if we can be of assistance in any way, please let us know.

Also, please note we will NOT be sending reminders for these training sessions (all players and families should assume our Monday afternoon training will ALWAYS BE ON), however we will let you all know in ample time if we need to cancel a session due to weather or other factors.

Training Attire

Students should also be in proper training attire (NOT school sports uniform) with mouthguard, boots and any other equipment they play with for every training session, including school sport. This requirement also includes integrated school sport on Thursday i.e., students should wear our rugby training top or similar and not the school sport polo at this time. Alongside this, students should have a towel and spare school uniform to change into in case there is wet weather.

Stack Team APP

The Stack Team app will be our Rugby Union program’s main form of communication for all our squads, with exception of U12 boys.

As a reminder, both parents and Boy’s U13, U15, 1st XVs and 7’s and Girl’s 7s students who have parental permission for smartphones will need to download the app and join the Lindisfarne Rugby Program in the app.

To download the Stack team app, use the following links:

● iOS: https://www.teamapp.com/ios-ap...

● Android: https://www.teamapp.com/androi...

Once downloaded, please search for 'Lindisfarne Rugby Program' and request to join.

More Information

If you have any questions about the above, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Coyne (jcoyne@lindiisfarne.nsw.edu.au).

Lindisfarne Junior Pathway Partnership with Bond University Bull Sharks.

Our Lindisfarne students have been involved in the Bull Sharks Cubs program, with outstanding elite netball sessions presented by Bond University Bull Shark players and coaches. This has been an excellent opportunity to extend player skill and be a part of an elite netball program. The Cubs Program will continue across four more association days, with players travelling to the Northern Gold Coast Association, Hinterland Netball Association, Southport Carrara Association and South Coast Association.

Netball Season Launch 2024.

Our Netball 2024 Season Launch will be held this Saturday 17 February from 1pm-2pm.

This invitation is for all students Years 2 to 12 registered and playing in our Winter Season Saturday Netball Competition 2024, along with parents and guardians.

Dress code: Smart casual for parents and guardians and full formal uniform for students including ties and blazers.

Date: Saturday 17 February,2024

Time: From 12.15pm for a 1.00pm start and a 2.00pm finish.

Place: Pioneer Country: 98 Fraser Drive, Tweed Heads South.

You can RSVP through this link here.

This event will be a chance to meet team mates, coaches and managers and enjoy some pizza.

Please RSVP by using this link.


Please bookmark our Lindisfarne Lions Netball Bulletin which is updated every week with all the latest school, association and Netball Queensland and Netball NSW information. Our link can be foundhere.

Sign up via the Casuarina Hockey Website 

Vuong Pham Poet Incursion

As a part of their study of Module A: Language, Identity and Culture, Year 12 English Standard students are currently analysing a series of poems from The Anthology of Contemporary Asian Australian Poetry, one of which is Vuong Pham’s highly emotive poem Mother.

On Wednesday 14th of February, Year 12 English Standard was fortunate enough to be visited by Pham in person.  Pham’s impressive poetry has received a myriad of accolades, including commendations for his short form Haiku poetry, and just last year his poem Displaced was shortlisted for the 2023 Newcastle Poetry Award. The live reading of his poem Mother allowed students to experience the emotional depth and lyrical beauty of Pham's work firsthand.

Pham also shared his personal story and the story of his parents remarkable journey to seek refuge in Australia. His narrative offered a real-world context to the struggles and triumphs of migrant families, enriching the students' understanding of the poem and its broader cultural and historical implications.

After this experience students are well equipped to discuss the complex interplay of language, identity and culture in their HSC assessments. They will also carry this valuable learning experience with them, a testament to the power of words to bridge cultures, express deep emotions, and illuminate personal histories.

Here is what one student Jess had to say about the experience:

"The visit from the poet Vuong Pham provided a deeper and richer understanding into his poem 'Mother'. Not only through his personal analysis and the historical context he provided but through his use of tone, and emphasis of words during the performance that gave his poem an even deeper impact. To have the poet himself provide his own insight and explanation of meaning behind the poem we are studying was a truly invaluable experience that I would recommend to anyone that gets the opportunity. "

You can learn more about Vuong Pham here: https://vuongphampoetry.wordpress.com/

Emily Brewer
English Coordinator

Apple Expertise Empowers Our Educators

This week, our school welcomed Eric Luna, an Apple Professional Learning Specialist, to conduct engaging training sessions for our staff. Across both campuses, Eric facilitated sessions with the entire team, smaller groups, and even provided one-on-one coaching within classrooms.

These sessions focused on harnessing the potential of Apple technology to create dynamic and impactful learning experiences for our students. By fostering a deeper understanding of these tools, Eric empowered our teachers to unlock new approaches to teaching and cater to diverse learning styles.

We are grateful to Apple for providing this valuable professional development opportunity. We are confident that the knowledge and skills gained will translate into enriching and empowering learning environments for all our students.

Kane Bradford 
Head of Professional Practice, Innovation and Partnership 

What a start to 2024! Our students have come back keen and ready to get involved, and have taken new classes, new classmates and new teachers all in their stride.

Week 2’s internet disruptions saw us shift away from using our usual online programs, but this meant that many classes took their learning of mathematics in a slightly different direction, by completing scavenger hunts (see accompanying photos), completing hands-on activities or completing their work in an old-fashioned way, with pen, paper and textbook!

Week 2 also saw our mathematics teachers re-commence “Maths Help”, the timetable for this was in last week’s newsletter. “Maths help” sessions are run every morning before school from approximately 7:30 am, and during every lunch break, and are available for students in Years 7 - 12. They are run on a drop-in basis, where students are encouraged to bring some work with them, even if it is just one question that they are having trouble solving. They do not need to attend the session that their own classroom teacher is running, they are welcome to attend at any time that suits them.

Throughout the year, there will be opportunities for keen mathematics students to enter competitions such as the Mathematics Olympiad and the Australian Mathematics Competition, and they are encouraged to check their emails and listen to the notices to ensure that they do not miss out on these opportunities.

Mrs Karen West
Coordinator of Mathematics

Music Tutors Performance Evening 

On Wednesday 21 February, we will present an evening concert to showcase the talents of our studio music tutors and music staff.

This concert is a great opportunity for students to hear our music staff perform in a professional setting and will feature a variety of styles from Rock to Classical.

This year the concert will be followed by meet n greet which is a great opportunity for parents and students to chat with our studio music tutors. Any new students to the school with an interest in music are encouraged to attend this concert to gain an appreciation of the ensembles and programs on offer.

This year we will also include performances from the Senior and Middle School Choirs, Senior and Middle School Stage Band, Senior Rock Band and String Ensemble.

Starting at 6.30 pm (NSW), the 90-minute concert will be hosted by our Friends of the Arts committee. Drinks will be available from 5.45 pm.

Please complete the Google Form if you are attending this event.

Todd Hardy
Director of Performing Arts

Gig at Badlands Vinyl Record Store in Tweed Heads

A reminder that tomorrow, Saturday, February 17, two of our super talented student singer-songwriters, Josh Geoghegan and Jamie Mifsud, will be performing sets of their original songs at Badlands Vinyl Record Store in Tweed Heads. Joining Josh and Jamie will be local band Da Manager, featuring our very own Cruz Kill on drums. This will be a fun, informal gig and a great opportunity for the students. Please come along and support our talented students and this excellent local business.

Brett Canning 
Recording Studio Manager/Producer 

Kokoda Challenge 2024

The 2024 Kokoda Challenge is open for registration and we are pleased to advise Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School will again be entering teams. These hiking endurance events on the Gold Coast allow students to challenge themselves both physically and mentally, within a team environment based on the WWII campaign in Papua New Guinea.

Students will be placed in teams of 4 with a parent or staff leader. The events available include:

Event: Year 7 - 18km Kokoda Challenge
Date: Saturday, 1 June, 2024
Start: Starting at 11:00 am from D’Aguilar National Park, Brookvale.
note: transport from the Mahers Lane campus will be provided.

Event: Year 8 - 30km Kokoda Challenge
Date: Saturday, 13 July, 2024
Start: Start at 1:00pm from the Clagiraba Reserve, Clagiraba

Event: Year 9, 10, 11 and 12 - 48km Kokoda Challenge
Date: Saturday, 13/14 July, 2024
Start: Start at 10:00am from the Raw Challenge, Numinbah Valley

Event: Year 10/11 and 12 - 96km Kokoda Challenge
Date: Saturday, 13/14 July, 2024
Start: Start at 7:00am from the Mudgeeraba Bowls Club

The School will advise of the costs as soon as the numbers are confirmed.

Should you wish for your child to participate, please log into SEQTA Engage, Events and Payments. Training for the 30km, 48km and 96km will begin Term 2, Sunday mornings.

If you have any questions please contact Mrs Kelly Bedford kbedford@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au  or Mrs Julie McDowell jmcdowell@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au 

This academic year marks the introduction of Agriculture as a new subject for Lindisfarne Stage 5 students. The construction of the Agricultural Plot, situated below the basketball courts, is nearing completion, overcoming weather-related delays. The Year 10 Agriculture class has embarked on its inaugural Plant Production Enterprise, cultivating Chrysanthemums for sale on Mother's Day. Throughout this unit, students will delve into topics such as environmental sustainability, financial viability, marketing strategies, available technologies, and ethical considerations specific to plant enterprises, with a focus on Chrysanthemums.

This week, the students, alongside dedicated volunteers, planted nearly 1000 flowers. 

The Mother's Day flower sale will be conducted through TryBookings. Stay tuned for updates on the progress of the flowers as the term unfolds.

Tracy Foyster 
Agriculture Teacher 

ハッピーバレンタインデー！　Happy Valentine’s Day!

On Tuesday 14th February, the 11A, 9A and 7H Japanese classes looked at how Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Japan. They discussed the differences between Valentine’s Day in Australia and Japan.

Chocolate is the gift of choice on Valentine’s Day in Japan, with females doing most of the gift giving. There are different types of chocolate, depending on who the gift is given to.

On the 14th March, males are expected to present girls with gifts roughly two or three times the value of what they received a month earlier! This special day is known as White Day.

You can read more about how Valentine’s Day and White Day is celebrated in Japan here

In the last part of our lessons today, the students made origami love hearts and sampled some chokore-to (chocolate).

Included are some photos of the Year 9 Japanese class with their origami hearts. The kanji for heart is 心

De Roos sensei

Jodie De Roos
Teacher 

Year 10 Vaccinations - 28 February 2024

The NSW Health will be attending Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School on Wednesday 28 February. Consent for each vaccine must be provided by parents/guardians for students to
receive this free vaccination at school.

The vaccination offered to Year 10 students is Nimenrix (Meningococcal ACWY). It is a single dose.
Parents/guardians can provide consent online for their child’s routine school vaccinations on the online consent portal.  Select login with Service NSW Account.

To provide online consent you will need:
● your Service NSW log-in details
● Medicare card details for you and your child.

Alternatively, paper consent forms are available for collection at student administration and the main reception at Mahers Lane if preferred.
If you do not want your child to participate in this program, simply do not complete the consent form.

For more information about this program please contact our school nurse Bianca Foster at
nurse@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au or use this link to the NSW School Vaccination Program website.