2025 Term 1 Week 7 21 Mar 2025

Dear Lindisfarne Parents and Guardians,

As we wrap up another exciting week, I feel inspired by the meaningful impact of our Harmony Week celebrations. This pivotal event underscores the importance of cultural diversity and inclusivity, which are at the heart of our school community.

Harmony Week is an integral part of our school calendar, dedicated to celebrating the rich cultural diversity among our students, and School community. Noted Australian Noel Pearson writes of a layered Australian Identity: our Ancient Traditions and Heritage, our British Inheritance and our MultiCultural triumph, in describing the Australia we share today.

Throughout the week, we engaged in a variety of activities that fostered dialogue, appreciation, and mutual respect. These efforts reinforce values of empathy, respect, and acceptance, enhancing our students' educational experiences and preparing them to thrive in a globally connected world. By cultivating an appreciation for cultural diversity, we nurture a school culture that is not only accepting but also celebratory of differences, promoting community cohesion and interpersonal growth.

This has also been a significant week for our year 3,5,7, and 9 students as they worked through Naplan assessments that had been delayed due to Cyclone Alfred. I greatly appreciate the expert organisation of Dean of Studies Caroline Jeffries, our Assistant Head of Junior School Angela Mundy, and all of the staff who have supported our students throughout the week.

This week also brought several exciting events. On Monday, I had the pleasure of attending closely contested rugby games at Somerset College. Watching our teams play with such pride and determination was truly fantastic. Congratulations to all players and coaches for demonstrating exceptional skill and teamwork.

Our Year 4 students returned from their two-night stay at Camp Goodenough, where they engaged in numerous activities that fostered personal growth and teamwork. Joining them for dinner on Wednesday evening, I was thrilled to witness their enthusiasm and hear first-hand how much they were enjoying the challenges of the camp.

Congratulations to our Secondary School Swim team, who performed strongly at the NCIS Championships in Alstonville on Thursday, being named Champion School. Several long-standing records were broken and a number of the team have been selected to compete in the NSW CIS Championships in Sydney.

Today, we bid farewell to our visiting students from Aoyama Gakuin University, Japan. Their visit provided valuable international learning opportunities and helped foster important global connections. We wish the students safe travel home and look forward to maintaining the friendships formed during their stay.

The week culminated with Lindisfarne hosting fellow Round Square School Collingwood from Vancouver, Canada, for rugby matches against our U16 and 1st XV teams. The atmosphere on the top oval was terrific, with both teams playing exceptionally well. It was an honour to host Collingwood School as I was able to spend time visiting their campus in Vancouver whilst on Sabbatical leave last year.

As we move towards the final three weeks of the first term, I am continually grateful for the support and commitment within our Lindisfarne community. Let’s maintain this positive momentum as we look forward to the exciting activities planned for the remaining weeks.

I hope that many of you can join us for the rescheduled P&F Trivia Night on Saturday, 29 March. You can still register teams via this booking link.

Wishing everyone a restful and enjoyable weekend.

Warm regards,

Stuart Marquardt
Principal

Dear Students, Staff, Parents and Guardians,

In two articles earlier this term, I wrote on two of the symbols on our School Crest - the open book (the Bible) and the Torch, respectively. In this article, I would like to draw your attention to one of the other symbols upon the Lindisfarne Crest - the Lion.

The Lion, of course, evokes several images - The King of the Jungle, pride (as in a pride of lions) courage and fierceness etc., but there is also a particularly powerful biblical promise/prophecy concerning the Lion in the Judeo/Christian tradition from the first book of the Bible to the last.

For example, upon the Patriarch, Jacob’s death (Jacob was renamed Israel as he was the father of the sons of the twelve tribes of Israel - see Genesis 32:22-32), he imparted prophetic blessings upon his twelve sons. What is particularly interesting for our purposes is to focus on the messianic nature of the prophetic blessing he gave to his son, Judah. I will quote the most pertinent portion of the blessing:

Genesis 49:8-10

“Judah, your brothers will praise you;

your hand will be on the neck of your enemies;

your father’s sons will bow down to you.

You are a lion’s cub, Judah;

you return from the prey, my son.

Like a lion, he crouches and lies down,

like a lioness—who dares to rouse him

The sceptre will not depart from Judah,

nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet,

until he to whom it belongs shall come

and the obedience of the nations shall be his.

A quick history of the Jewish people will help us understand the significance of this promise.

The Hebrew people began with Jacob’s grandfather, Abraham, but weren’t named after Jacob/Israel until the Exodus under Moses and especially the entry into the Promised Land under Joshua. Israel as a nation reached the peak of her powers under Solomon, King David’s son, but upon his death, the Kingdom split in two.

Ten of the tribes moved their capital north to Samaria whilst the two other tribes - Judah and Benjamin - remained in Jerusalem, the original capital captured by King David around 1000 BC. In 722 BC the Northern Kingdom was conquered by the Assyrians leading to what is historically known as ‘the ten lost tribes of Israel.’ In time this led to the remaining Israelites being called Jews, after the dominant and royal tribe of Judah.

It was from this tribe that the promised Messiah (Messiah means, ‘Anointed King’), was prophesied to come. It was believed by the early Christians, that Jesus, being of the royal line of David, was and is this promised Messiah (see Matthew 1:1-17). In fact, during the first Century AD, especially before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70AD by the Romans, Christianity was just seen as being another sect within Judaism of the time, along with the Pharisees, the Sadducees, the Essenes and the Zealots, and Christians were originally known simply as followers of ‘The Way’ (see Acts 9:2).

Towards the end of the first century, also under a time of Roman oppression, St John wrote his revelation of Jesus Christ (‘Christ’ comes from the Greek word, ‘Christos’ from the Hebrew word for Messiah, Hamashiach). In Revelation 5:5 he offers the following comforting words to the oppressed Christians:

Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”

I’m not sure how many of you are Narnia fans, but ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ is actually an intentional presentation of Jesus’ death and resurrection through the genre of a children's story, by Oxford Philosopher, C.S Lewis. I’ll conclude with a pertinent quote on the purpose and nature of the Lion, Aslan:

“Aslan is a lion - the Lion, the great Lion." "Ooh," said Susan. "I'd thought he was a man. Is he quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion"..."Safe?" said Mr Beaver ..." Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.” ― C.S. Lewis, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

And so, go Lindisfarne Lions!

Blessings, Reverend Lyndon.
Chaplain

During Harmony Week 2025, we were once again thrilled to welcome the Byron Taiko Group to our school, showcasing the dynamic and powerful Japanese art of Taiko drumming. This centuries-old tradition, deeply rooted in Japanese culture, blends rhythm, movement, and spirit to create an unforgettable experience.

The Byron Taiko drummers captivated us with their energetic performances and engaging workshops, offering students and staff the opportunity to experience Taiko firsthand. Participants explored the discipline, coordination, and teamwork required to master this unique art form while gaining a deeper appreciation of its cultural significance. Students especially enjoyed using their voices and bodies as part of their drumming, embracing the powerful combination of movement and vocal expression that gives Taiko its distinct energy.

Harmony Week celebrates diversity and unity, and the pulsating rhythms of Taiko drumming embody these values beautifully. Through the universal language of music, our community came together to connect, learn, and share in a tradition that, for many, was a new and enriching discovery.

The visit from Byron Taiko was a highlight of Harmony Week, reinforcing the importance of cultural exchange and the power of music to bring people together. The energy and enthusiasm of the drummers left a lasting impact, inspiring us all to celebrate and embrace the rich diversity within our school community.

Louise Godden
Japanese Teacher

As we look to grow the International program at Lindisfarne, there will be opportunities for families to host students who are enrolled at the school for differing amounts of time.

We are currently seeking families to host the following student:

Nationality - Italian
Gender - Male
Year Level - 11
Duration - Terms 2 and 3, 2025
Interests - Football, tennis, watching movies
Remuneration - Provided

If you are interested in becoming a homestay family for this student, please email international@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au

Jenaya Mulley
Head of Enrolments and International Development

School Fee Payments

If anyone wishes to pay their school fees in cash at either Mahers Lane or the Junior School, please call or email accounts@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au in advance to make an appointment, outside of the start and finish bell times. Planning ahead will ensure you do not have to wait.

Lindisfarne Buses 

The Lindisfarne buses provide a service to and from the closest scheduled stop to the residential address of the family, this service does not have the capacity to meet requests such as transport for students to swap buses for travel to other locations for sport, work, social or other reasons. Should your child need to attend such an activity, we advise you to make alternative arrangements like carpooling to transport your child to their event.

Your understanding in this matter is appreciated.

Suzanne Halliday and Jodie Poole
Lindisfarne Accounts Team

At the Junior School, we are thrilled to introduce the latest addition to our Round Square Heroes of Discovery – Diversity Dani!

Diversity Dani stands for inclusivity, respect, and celebrating differences. She shows us that our world is more vibrant because of our unique cultures, perspectives, and experiences. Dani encourages us to embrace diversity, respect others’ backgrounds, and make it a priority to ensure everyone feels valued and included.

As we launch Diversity Dani, the timing could not be more perfect, as it aligns beautifully with Harmony Week – a special time in our calendar that celebrates belonging, respect, and inclusivity for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic backgrounds. Dani teaches us that true strength lies in our differences and that by respecting and uplifting each other, we create a school and community where everyone feels welcome.

Throughout Harmony Week, our students have engaged in activities that celebrate our diverse community and reflect on how they can be more like Diversity Dani in their daily interactions.

Below are this week’s ‘Little Heroes’, the winners of our Hero Draw at Monday’s assembly.

We encourage families to continue these conversations at home reinforcing the message that kindness, respect, and inclusion are essential in creating a harmonious society.

Join us in celebrating Diversity Dani and embracing the values of Harmony Week every day as we continue to foster a school culture where everyone feels a true sense of belonging!

Angela Mundy
Assistant Head of Junior School

Dates for Term 1

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

• Tuesday 25 March - Tweed Hockey 6-A-Side Gala Day (Yr 3 and 4 only)

• Friday 4 April (week 9) - Pre-school - Year 2 FUN Cross Country

• Thursday 10 April (week 10) - Years 3 - 12 Lindisfarne Cross Country Carnival,

FUN Cross Country

The FUN Cross Country will be held on Friday 4th April. Students in Preschool, Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 will be participating in this event.

The FUN Cross Country will be held at Arkinstall Park starting just after lunch. The program of events is below, please remember these times are a guide only. They may change on the day so if you plan on coming to watch, please be early so as not to be disappointed.

An outline of the events is as follows:

• 1.15pm Official Opening Jeremy Godden

• 1.20pm: Pre School – (300m)

• 1.35pm: Year 2 Boys (1km)

• 1.50pm: Year 2 Girls (1km)

• 2.05pm: Year 1 Boys (1km)

• 2.20pm: Year 1 Girls (1km)

• 2.30pm: Kindergarten Boys (500m)

• 2.40pm: Kindergarten Girls (500m)

• 2.50pm Close and Home (parents are free to take students home)

Futsal GALA Day

Lindisfarne will be participating in the Gold Coast Regional Futsal Titles again in Term 2. Mr Croft will be holding a meeting on Monday Morning Tea in 4J for students who are keen to participate. This will be an initial meeting to gauge interest. If students are away or miss the meeting they should contact Mr Croft to add their name to the list.

Total Football Academy - After School Program

The Total Football Academy after school program continues this week with lots of enthusiasm and excitement. The program will continue until week 9 Monday 31 March.

Information about the program can be found in the Flyer here :

Lindisfarne-Term 1 2025_compressed.pdf

Runners Club

Runners Club was unfortunately affected by the unpredictable weather last week. However, it was back bigger and better this week, with glorious weather and strong numbers participating.

Runners club will continue until Wednesday 2nd March in week 9. Students will be participating in the Cross Country in week 10.

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. 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.

Hockey After School Program - Year 3 and 4 students only

Casuarina Hockey Club will be again holding an after school Hockey program for year 3 and 4 students.

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. 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 4, 11, 18, and 25 March and Tuesday 1 April.

Cost: $50 per student

Maximum number of Students: 20

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.

Nathan Croft
Head of Sport - Junior School

SPECIAL REPORT: Social Media & Comparison Culture

Young people today are growing up in a world where exposure to other people's lives is constant. Through social media and other platforms, they are regularly presented with curated highlights - from flawless holiday photos and academic milestones to the latest fashion trends and fitness achievements. This continuous stream of idealised content fuels what is known as comparison culture, where self-worth is often measured by how someone stacks up against others.

For children and adolescents, who are still figuring out who they are, this culture can be particularly damaging. Constantly comparing their appearance, achievements, or social standing to friends, influencers, and even strangers can lead to unrealistic expectations and a skewed sense of self-worth. This relentless need to measure up can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and anxiety - undermining both confidence and emotional wellbeing.

It's vital that parents and caregivers understand how deeply comparison culture can influence a child's self-perception and sense of value. Left unchecked, it can foster perfectionism and a dependence on external validation, where a 'like' or comment becomes the measure of their worth.

The good news is, that families have a powerful role to play in helping young people navigate these challenges. This Special Report will help you empower your child to build the resilience and confidence needed to navigate today's comparison-driven world and embrace their own unique path.

Here is the link to your Special Reporthttps://lindisfarne.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-social-media-comparison-culture-au

Julie Henry
Junior School Psychologist

Gold Coast Butterflies visited the Year 2 classrooms this week and brought the Butterfly Life Cycle to life. Students were very excited to explore the wonders of butterflies - seeing tiny butterfly eggs through a magnifying glass, wriggling caterpillars, colourful chrysalides, and fully grown butterflies!

We learnt butterflies are fascinating creatures with unique abilities, including tasting with their feet, having transparent wings, and relying on the sun to warm up for flight.

We were amazed to hear that each species’ caterpillars will only eat a specific type of plant. Butterflies find these host plants to lay their eggs. We saw an army of social caterpillars resting on the underside of a leaf.

We also learnt that butterflies are vital for healthy ecosystems as they are attracted to bright flowers and feed on nectar. When they do this, their bodies collect pollen and carry it to other plants.

The incursion was a fantastic opportunity for students to deepen their understanding through real-world learning, and everyone came away from the experience with some new knowledge about the life cycle and importance of butterflies in our world.

Year 2 Teachers

Reminder: Stage 3 Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews

A reminder that Stage 3 Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews will be held next week on Wednesday and Thursday from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm in the Chapel (Mahers Lane Campus).

We encourage your child to accompany you to the interview, dressed in their school uniform. Their involvement can significantly enhance their understanding of their learning process, foster a sense of responsibility, and allow them to contribute to discussions about their goals and pathways for growth.

Booking Details:

• Dates: Wednesday, 26 March & Thursday, 27 March 2025

• Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

• Location: Chapel, Mahers Lane Campus

• Bookings open: Monday, 17 March at 5:00 pm

• Bookings close: Monday, 25 March at 5:00 pm

Bookings can be made through SEQTA Engage or Parent Lounge.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Harmony Week at Lindisfarne

This year’s Harmony Week was another fantastic opportunity for staff and students to come together and celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the strength that comes from different perspectives. The enduring theme, ‘Everyone Belongs’, was at the heart of our Middle School assembly, where we reflected on what it truly means to be part of a diverse community.

A key message from the assembly was that diversity isn’t just about differences—it’s about the way those differences help us grow. When we take the time to listen, learn, and understand different perspectives, we build stronger, more creative, and more connected communities. True belonging isn’t about making everyone the same; it’s about making sure every voice is heard.

Throughout the week, staff and students engaged in a range of activities that brought these ideas to life. The Byron Bay Taiko performance filled the assembly with energy, while workshops in basket weaving, boomerang throwing, and cultural traditions encouraged hands-on learning and appreciation. The Food Festival was another highlight, giving everyone a chance to experience and enjoy flavours from around the world.

Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make Harmony Week such a meaningful and engaging experience.

ParentEd with Daniel Principe - Empowering Young People in a Digital Age

On Wednesday evening, parents and carers gathered in the Chapel for an insightful and thought-provoking ParentEd session with Daniel Principe. It was a fantastic event where Daniel shared powerful perspectives on how we can best equip our young people with the skills and knowledge to navigate their teenage years in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

His insights challenged us to think deeply about the influences shaping our children’s young minds, from social media and online content to cultural expectations and peer influences. He highlighted the critical role we all play in fostering resilience, healthy self-esteem, and strong values in the next generation.

One of the key takeaways from the session was the importance of open, ongoing conversations between parents and young people, creating a safe space where they feel supported in questioning the messages they receive from the digital world. Daniel also reinforced the need to model healthy behaviours, set boundaries around technology use, and empower our children with critical thinking skills to make informed choices.

If you weren’t able to attend, we encourage you to explore some of Daniel’s work and resources, here, which provide practical strategies for guiding young people in this space. As always, we value the partnership between school and home in shaping well-rounded, thoughtful, and resilient young people.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this important conversation.

NAPLAN Wrap-Up

Our students have almost finished their 2024 NAPLAN assessments, and we want to acknowledge their effort and focus throughout the process. These assessments provide valuable insights into key areas of literacy and numeracy, helping us understand student progress and identify areas for growth.

While NAPLAN is just one measure of learning, it’s a great opportunity for students to develop test-taking skills and resilience. We encourage them to reflect on their experience—not just their results, but the strategies they used and what they can take forward in their learning.

A big thank you to our staff for their support and guidance, and to our students for their positive approach. We look forward to using these insights to continue strengthening teaching and learning at Lindisfarne.

Supporting Healthy Sleep Habits in the Middle School Community

As we continue to guide our students in navigating a world that is increasingly shaped by technology, one of the biggest challenges we see is how screen time, especially phone use, affects sleep and overall wellbeing. It’s something many of us, as adults, struggle with too, so it’s no surprise that our young people are finding it hard to strike the right balance.

There’s no doubt that phones, social media, and online connections are a big part of life for our Middle School students, but when screen time starts cutting into sleep, it can have a significant impact on the child. Research, including insights from The Anxious Generation, points to a link between increased phone use at night and rising levels of anxiety and exhaustion in young people. The constant connection, messages, notifications, and the need to check in, make it harder to switch off, both literally and mentally.

We encourage our students to think about their own habits and find ways to set healthy boundaries, not because we want to take phones away, but because rest and balance matter. Some simple changes, like charging devices outside the bedroom, setting a phone-free wind-down period before bed, or using ‘Do Not Disturb’ modes, can make a huge difference in helping them get the sleep they need.

If this is something that’s causing challenges at home, please know you’re not alone, we see it too. If you’d like to chat further, feel free to reach out to your child’s Homeroom teacher. Supporting our students in developing healthy habits for life is something we do best when school and home, work together.

Helpful Hints for Better Sleep

• Try the Sleep Ninja app here – A free, evidence-based sleep program for young people (healthdirect.gov.au).
• Take the ‘7-Day Sleep Challenge’ – Encourage your child to commit to a week of good sleep habits and reflect on the difference it makes.
•  Reading, journaling, or gentle stretching can help signal the brain that it’s time to wind down. Find practical tips at The Sleep Foundation for building a calming pre-sleep routine.

Cathy Cox
Head of Middle School

Project-Based Learning Tasks in Year 6

In Year 6, we embrace Project-Based Learning (PBL) to extend and challenge students beyond their core work. Each class incorporates PBL differently, providing opportunities for students to engage in open-ended learning tasks once they have completed their set work. These tasks include activity cards, independent projects, and inquiry-based challenges linked to the units we are exploring throughout the term.

PBL encourages creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking, allowing students to take ownership of their learning in meaningful ways. Whether it’s designing a new invention, investigating a real-world problem, or applying their knowledge in a hands-on project, these tasks foster curiosity and a love for learning. Students love the chance to explore their own ideas, collaborate with peers, and showcase their creativity in ways that make learning even more engaging and fun!

In addition to these open-ended projects, students are provided with structured extension tasks that build upon their daily lessons. These activities deepen their understanding of key concepts, encourage higher-order thinking, and offer opportunities for real-world application. By challenging students to apply their learning in new and innovative ways, we ensure that every learner is engaged at their level and inspired to push their thinking further.

Kristina Diaz
Year 6 Coordinator

Year 12 Letz Live Presentation

On Tuesday, Year 12 students had the privilege of hosting Aimee from Letz Live, a renowned Gap Year organisation. Aimee, a past participant of the UK Letz Live Gap Year program, shared her firsthand experiences and provided valuable insights into the opportunities available through Letz Live.

Letz Live offers structured Gap Year and working holiday programmes across several countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, and the USA. These programmes are designed to immerse participants in new cultures while offering practical work experience. For instance, the UK Gap Year programme allows participants to work as school assistants, gaining hands-on experience in educational settings. Similarly, the programmes in Australia and New Zealand offer roles in various sectors, enabling participants to develop diverse skill sets. Letz Live's extensive network and partnerships with reputable schools and organisations ensure that participants are placed in supportive environments that foster personal and professional growth.

The organisation prides itself on its comprehensive support system, guiding participants through every step—from the application process to placement and beyond. This ensures a seamless transition into new roles and cultures, making the Gap Year experience both enriching and transformative.

For more detailed information, visit the Letz Live website or for any general information, hard copy leaflets, or advice, please speak to Mrs McDonald.

Bond University - Upcoming Opportunities

Student for a Semester Program

Bond University's "Student for a Semester" program offers high-achieving Year 11 and 12 students the opportunity to enrol in university subjects, providing a taste of university life and learning. Participants can choose from a range of subjects and attend lectures, tutorials, and workshops alongside current Bond students. This experience not only enhances academic skills but also assists in making informed decisions about future study options.

Applications for the May 2025 semester open today, Friday, 28 March, and close on Friday, 2 May. Interested students are encouraged to apply early.

More information can be found here.

Learn for Credit Courses

Bond University has several upcoming course opportunities available for students to apply for under its "Learn for Credit" program, designed for high school students to gain university-level experience.

• Research and Statistics in Psychology
  This course delves into the methodologies and statistical techniques essential for psychological research, providing students with a solid foundation in data analysis and interpretation within the field of psychology.
  Course information can be found here.
  
  

• Creative Writing
  This course encourages students to explore various writing styles and techniques, enhancing their creative expression and storytelling abilities.
  Course information can be found here.
  
  

• Cybercrime and Cybersecurity
  This course provides a foundational understanding of cybercrime, including motivations behind cyber attacks and strategies to protect against them. It includes online modules and a practical workshop, offering insights into careers in cybersecurity.
  Course information can be found here.

University of Queensland - Enhanced Studies Program for Year 11 Students

The University of Queensland's Enhanced Studies Program (ESP) offers high-achieving Year 11 students the opportunity to enrol in university-level courses, providing an insight into tertiary education and enriching their academic experience. Due to location and attendance requirements, students are encouraged to consider courses offered externally (online). Available external courses for 2025 include:

• Understanding Digital Health: Explores the intersection of healthcare and digital technology, focusing on how digital solutions can improve health outcomes.
  
  

• Religions, Spiritualities, and Non-Religion: Examines various religious beliefs, spiritual practices, and secular perspectives, fostering a comprehensive understanding of diverse worldviews.
  
  

• The History of the Supernatural: Investigates historical beliefs in supernatural phenomena and their cultural significance across different societies.
  
  

• Introductory Russian: Provides foundational knowledge of the Russian language, including basic grammar, vocabulary, and conversational skills.
  
  

• Russian Language IV1: Advances Russian language proficiency, building on prior knowledge to enhance fluency and comprehension.
  
  

Applications for 2025 opened on 17 March and will close on Friday, 30 May 2025. Interested students should review the course details and application procedures on the ESP website.

MedEntry Guide

Students considering a pathway in Medicine are encouraged to see Mrs McDonald for a copy of the 2025 Entry to Medicine Guide, published by the team at Study Work Grow. This comprehensive guide includes:

• The basics of studying medicine

• Available study options

• The assessment process

• Information on the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test)

• Guidance on creating a Plan B

• Understanding fees and available places

• Key dates

• Details on direct entry programs

• Information on separate entry programs

• Overview of postgraduate programs

This guide serves as an essential resource for students aspiring to enter the field of medicine, providing clarity on the various pathways and requirements.

For more information or to obtain a copy of the guide, please speak to Mrs. McDonald.

Hayley McDonald
Director of Careers and Vocational Education & Training (VET)

Our Secondary Swimming team came out with all guns blazing on Thursday, at the rescheduled NCIS Secondary Swimming Championships in Alstonville. Lots of PBs, records and the navy/gold swimming caps winning the LION's share of races.

Some of our rugby teams are playing Collingwood School, from Canada - on the top oval this afternoon. We are stoked with the LIONS signage on the oval, which will make playing here a formidable challenge when other Football and Rugby school teams visit.

Next week is a massive week for the sports department! There is a Stage 3 (Year 5 and 6) Chess tournament up and running at the Northern Gold Coast. Two very large secondary NCIS events; the Touch Football and Netball. The rescheduled Fitzpatrick Shield is progressing for our Primary School Hockey enthusiasts.

Best wishes to the Primary CIS swimming qualifiers who jet down to Sydney for their tilt at representative honours:

Swimming

Thanks to our Lindisfarne Secondary boys and girls for their contributions yesterday, competing at the rescheduled NCIS Swimming Championships. Joining our Primary Swimming contingent, Lindisfarne Secondary campus was awarded the WINNING SCHOOL - on the overall point score. A FULL DECONSTRUCTION OF THE EVENT LINKED - HERE.

A huge commendation to our Age Champions and Placegetters:

Also of very special significance, is our NEW record breakers. May their records stand for many years to come:

15 Years Boys 50m Freestyle

Koa Stotz - 25.71
Also breaking this record was Riley Johnston with 25.72 - finishing the smallest possible fraction behind!

12 Years 50m Backstroke

Jack Sewell - 35.55

15 Years 50m Backstroke

Riley Johnston - 30.23

17 Years 50m Backstroke

Georgia Dunn - 35.95

15 Years 50m Breastroke

Riley Johnston - 31.93
Also breaking this record was Koa Stotz with 33.35.

15 Years 100m Freestyle

Koa Stotz - 57.36
Also breaking this record was Riley Johnston with 57.89.

We wish our CIS qualifiers all the best in Sydney!

Spotlight on Elle Down

Elle a Year 4 student continues to amaze with groundbreaking and historic level achievements. Elle, who just celebrated her 10th birthday this week, has continued to impress us all with her extraordinary athletic abilities. At the Queensland Athletics State Championships, she took out the 1500m event in the 13-year-old age group, despite being only 9 years old. This remarkable feat has earned her the title of the youngest Queensland Athletics champion in history, as this race is typically dominated by athletes aged 12 or 13.

Elle's time of 4 minutes and 49 seconds was not only a personal achievement but also set a new world benchmark, breaking the previous world record by 7 seconds. The record had been held by American athlete Megan Crum since 2017. According to Elle’s coach and several Queensland Athletics officials, this could be a generational record, potentially standing for decades to come.

We as a school community are blown away by these achievements, congratulations Elle!

Integrated Sport Selections - Close on Monday, 24 March at 7.30am

For those who haven’t yet made their sports selections on Clipboard, please do so before they close on Monday, 24 March at 7:30 AM.

To log in to Clipboard, please follow the below instructions carefully:

1. Log in to SEQTA

2. Select the SPORT SELECTIONS tile (this will launch the Clipboard portal)

3. Go to ACTIVITY SELECTION (left hand side of calendar view)

4. Select the correct student at the top right

5. Navigate to Term 2 (Year Group) Integrated Sports 2025

You can also use the following instructions to log in to Clipboard HERE.

Our integrated sports program is the compulsory sport that will be timetabled into students' academic calendar for Years 5 to 10 - with Years 11 and 12 optional. This sports program is part of the NSW Education and Standards Authority (NESA) and as such contributes to the minimum hours of Physical Activity within the school-mandated curriculum.

We encourage students to carefully select their sports, and where applicable - to network with their friends in advance of when selections open (including having contingency plans if selections fill up). Please note that there are no sport swaps after the selection process - swapping students across rolls and unravelling finance is not a straightforward process.

Damien Clucas
Head of Sport & Activites

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The Ballymore Cup - U14, U16 and 1st XV Boys

The Ballymore Cup selections have been released over the last week. Unfortunately, we could only carry 25 players in each squad (23 active players for each game and 2 non-playing reserves). Congratulations to all players selected and we need to complete registrations asap.

Registrations can be completed on Clipboard for all selected players and includes:

• Five games of rugby from the 4-6th April pending draw

• Two nights’ accommodation for all players

• Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks for the duration of the tournament (i.e., from dinner Friday 4th April - breakfast on 6th April)

• Transport to and from the school on Friday 4th April and Sunday 6th April

As a reminder, the Ballymore Cup is Queensland's largest schoolboy rugby competition which has been running since 2003 and our U13, U15 and 1st XV are again playing in this competition this year. It is a state-wide competition for all schools that presents non-traditional rugby schools and schools from regional areas with the opportunity to compete at a higher level. Here is a short video of the highlights from the 2021 Ballymore Cup: https://youtu.be/v5Z3e6YnXUs

Please note we will need all players available for this Friday - Sunday (the weekend of Term 1 Week 9) and if you will not be able to attend, please let us know as soon as possible.

The Armidale School Rugby Carnival - U12 Boys

For the third year running, we have been accepted into The Armidale School Rugby Carnival (TASRC), which is the biggest primary (U12) school rugby carnival in Australia. The carnival runs from Friday 11th April - Sunday 13th April this year. To confirm our attendance as a school, we are in the process of finalising our player registrations and will be providing more information ASAP.

Registration will include:

• TASRC carnival cap

• Five games of rugby at the carnival

• Two nights’ accommodation for players and support staff

• Dinner on Friday and Saturday night

• Full breakfast on Saturday and Sunday mornings at the boarding school

• Lunch on two days provided by TAS at the carnival

• Team photograph for each participant

• Transport to and from the school on Friday 11th and Sunday 13th

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE FIRST WEEKEND OF THE NSW TERM 1 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SO PLEASE KEEP THESE DATES FREE FOR ALL STUDENTS IN THE JUNIOR BOYS (Y5-6) PROGRAM.

Unfortunately, we can only carry 20 players in each squad and more information will be provided ASAP.

RECENT GAMES

SOMERSET INTERSCHOOL FIXTURE

Our boy's squads had their third inter-school of the season, and our girls had their first matches against Somerset on Monday, 17 March. Somerset is a strong rugby school on the Gold Coast and is consistently in the top two teams in the APS competition. It was great to see the girls have their first hit out and we still need more numbers for both U18 and U16 girls squads, so we’d love to have as many girls involved this year. If you have any questions on the girls program, please contact Mr Dunn (steve.dunn@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au)

1st XV 10-44

The Lindisfarne 1st XV faced a tough challenge against a well-drilled Somerset College side, falling to a 10-44 defeat in a physical and fast-paced contest. Despite missing a few key players, Lindisfarne showed moments of resilience and determination throughout the match.

Eddie Esgate and Finley Watson both crossed for well-earned tries, demonstrating strong attacking intent. In the forwards, Esgate was a standout performer alongside Jack Smith and Albert Stainley-Werrin. Smith, in particular, continues to grow in confidence and Rugby IQ, making smart decisions around the breakdown and set-piece.

Among the backs, Aiden Broadhurst and Will King put in solid performances, while Mani Lopez was outstanding with his kicking, gaining valuable territory and keeping Somerset on their toes.

The final scoreline didn’t fully reflect the competitiveness of the match, as Somerset ran in three late tries in the second half to inflate their tally. Lindisfarne can take plenty of positives from their effort and individual performances as they continue to build towards their next challenge.

U16 19-7

The Lindisfarne Lions put on a dominant display against the Somerset College Spartans 2nd XV in a gruelling match played on a fast, dry track under the scorching afternoon sun. Facing an older Somerset side bolstered by a cohort of 17-year-olds, the Lions showcased incredible tenacity, overcoming heavy defensive pressure to take a commanding 19-0 lead at halftime. Tucker Groves, Kobe Fraser, and James Green led the charge with powerful carries in the first half, setting the platform for the Lions' forward dominance. 

The backs, guided expertly by Max Esgate and Zane Weston, displayed their expansive skillset, stretching the Spartans' defence with precise passing and fluid movement. Rhys Jones and Harvey Vecht tore through the defensive line with scything runs, ensuring the Lions remained in control for much of the contest. A nasty head clash between Matty Dunn and Will King forced Dunn to leave the field, with Teo Martin stepping into the centres and performing with aplomb.

The second half saw Luke Jones and Tom Mison take up the mantle, carrying with authority against a tiring but determined Somerset defence. The Lions continued to dictate play through their dominant scrummaging and relentless attacking intent, keeping the Spartans on the back foot. Despite Somerset’s physicality and defensive resilience, they struggled to contain the Lions' structured yet enterprising attack. A late try from the Spartans narrowed the margin, but it was too little too late, as Lindisfarne held firm to claim a well-earned 19-7 victory. Their disciplined and dynamic performance under testing conditions highlighted the team’s depth, cohesion, and unwavering commitment to success.

U14

The Lions claimed their first victory of the season in dramatic fashion, edging out Somerset 28-24 with a try on the final play of the game. Despite an average first half, the team found another gear in the second, showcasing resilience and determination as they battled into the wind.

An Oli Wilson yellow card forced the remaining 14 players to dig deep, and they rose to the challenge with some outstanding performances. Coby Ellison stepped up brilliantly at flyhalf, guiding the attack with composure, while Sky Brebner made crucial turnovers that kept the Lions in the fight. Nate Blenkinsop delivered another barnstorming performance, proving unstoppable with the ball in hand, and Campbell Patterson was once again outstanding, lifting the team with his relentless work rate.

The last-minute try sealed a well-earned win and a confidence boost for the squad as they build towards the rest of the season. Well done, boys!

U12 vs Somerset College

45-15

The Under 12s took on a strong Somerset College side in a tough contest. Despite our best efforts, their size and physicality proved to be a challenge, and we were unable to come away with the win.

Our boys showed plenty of heart, particularly in attack, where we saw some strong carries and determined runs. There were moments when we put together some great phases, showing our potential with the ball in hand. However, our defensive connection is an area we need to improve, as Somerset was able to capitalize on gaps in our line.

Although the result didn’t go our way, the effort and resilience shown by the team were commendable. With a focus on strengthening our defensive structure in the coming weeks, we will continue to build and improve and look forward to several fixtures in the coming weeks.

Well done to all the boys for their hard work—on to the next challenge!

Girls 7s

It was great to have the first hit out of the season for U16 and U18 Girls teams. Unfortunately, the squads are struggling for numbers which made it very difficult for those in attendance but to their credit they performed admirably.

Our U18 girls, who at times only had 5 players on the field, still managed to test Somerset scoring some fantastic tries. Led superbly by Tiggi Groves in both attack and defence, the team got incredibly close to tipping over their opposition. Unfortunately, Somerset had a very fast outside back who received the ball well from her insides and was able to score the winning try. The loss was due to a lack of numbers as these girls most definitely played the better rugby but it’s always hard to compete with 5 or 6 against 7. A special mention needs to be made of Jasmine Harrison who played up for the U18 whilst also playing both games for our U16 team.

Our U16 team which featured two new players to the squad in Milla Sergiacomi and Elodie Mueller, along with the returning Millie Driver faced a strong Somerset squad. The scoreboard didn’t read well for our team but the girls had great fun and learnt some important skills which will be helpful moving forward. Most pleasing was the amazing attitudes and support for each other throughout both games even when the result was never going to be in our favour. The girls showed great commitment, tackled well and never gave up.

We look forward to hopefully welcoming more girls to this squad next term with the programme moving forward into Thursday Sport.

KEY DATES

Please see the upcoming key dates for our rugby program below. You can find the full list of key dates HERE.

OTHER ITEMS

Lindisfarne Rugby Game Footage

We will endeavour to record as many matches as possible for the remainder of the year, with preference given to U18 boys and girls, and add to the below list:

• Lindisfarne 1st XV v Kings

• Lindisfarne U16 v Kings

• Lindisfarne 1st XV v All Saints

• Lindisfarne U16 v All Saints

• Lindisfarne 1st XV v Somerset

• Lindisfarne U16 v Somerset

Integrated School Sport Selections

The integrated school sport selections for term 2 will be opening in the upcoming weeks.

Please note if you are currently in our rugby union program (1st XV, U16, U14, and U12) in term 1, you will need to enrol you or your child in rugby union for term 2 when selections open. Girls Rugby 7s will also be offered in Term 2 for girl students. Students interested in joining the rugby program and not currently part of the program can also enrol in term 2.

Monday After School (Y7-12) and Wednesday Before School (1st XV Wider Squad) Training

In 2025, our main training sessions outside of school time are on Monday after school (1530-1645) for all Y7-12 players and Wednesday before school until the end of P1 (0700-0940) for our 1st XV wider squad. Although we have 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. If there is any way we can be of assistance to help facilitate this, 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 and Wednesday morning training sessions will ALWAYS BE ON), however, we will let you all know with as much time as possible if we need to cancel a session due to weather or other factors.

School Uniform and Training Attire

Students should be in proper training attire (NOT school sports uniform) with mouthguards, boots and any other equipment they play with for every training session. 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.

Outside of rugby training times, students should be in the correct uniform, which includes wearing the school sport polo on Thursday in P1-2 and P5-6 and in PE lessons and not rugby training tops.

Stack Team APP

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

As a reminder, both parents and Boy’s / 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 the '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).

Joseph Coyne
Director of High-Performance Athlete & Sports Development

Last week, two of our Year 12 Economics students (Ella McCluskey and Max Moore) had the unique opportunity to attend the Northern Rivers Economic Breakfast 2025, a premier regional business event featuring industry leaders and economic experts.

Held in collaboration with Business NSW and supported by strategic partners such as Southern Cross University, the event provided an invaluable learning experience, allowing our students to engage with key economic discussions, business trends, and networking opportunities.

The keynote speaker, Dr Sherman Chan, Chief Economist at Business NSW, delivered an insightful analysis of the economic landscape for 2025, addressing challenges and opportunities facing businesses in the region. The students also had the chance to hear from Professor Tyrone Carlin, Vice-Chancellor of Southern Cross University, and a distinguished panel of business leaders who shared their expertise on industry transformation, sustainability, and leadership.

Our students returned inspired and equipped with real-world economic perspectives that will undoubtedly enrich their studies. We extend our gratitude to the event organisers for welcoming young leaders and fostering opportunities for future economists. A special thanks to Mr Duke and Ms Perriot who coordinated the event for our senior students.

Kane Bradford
Head - Professional Practice, Innovation and Partnerships

Congratulations to Mrs Nathalie Newton-Walters- Runner-Up in the GTA NSW & ACT Geography Teacher Award

We are thrilled to announce that one of our Senior Geography teachers, Mrs Nathalie Newton-Walters, has achieved a remarkable second place in the GTA NSW & ACT Geography Teacher Award. This prestigious award recognises teachers who inspire young geographers and demonstrate creativity and expertise in integrating fieldwork into their teaching practices.

Nathalie's dedication to innovative fieldwork methods has enriched the learning experience for our students and fostered a deeper understanding of geographical concepts. Nathalie has organised and led Geography field trips and excursions to many local sites including Kingscliff and Casuarina beaches, Binna Burra National Park and The Farm Byron Bay (to name a few). Her submission included a comprehensive teaching programme and fieldwork booklet, showcasing her ability to seamlessly integrate practical fieldwork activities, into the curriculum. Nathalie spends countless hours planning and developing relevant, up-to-date and engaging resources that prepare and support real-world insight into geographic phenomena. The award acknowledges Nathalie's commitment to providing engaging and hands-on learning experiences that encourage active citizenship and geographical awareness among our students. We are proud of her achievement and grateful for her contributions to our school community. Please join us in congratulating Nathalie on this outstanding recognition!

Paskelle Dixon-King
Coordinator of Humanities

On Friday, 14th March, (internationally recognised as the day 3.14) our students embraced the joy of mathematics by celebrating Pi Day! The day was filled with engaging activities that highlighted the importance of Pi (π) and its role in everyday life.

Students across different year levels participated in a variety of fun and educational challenges. They tested their memory with a digits of Pi guessing game, competed in Pi and circle-themed trivia, and explored fascinating mathematical concepts through hands-on activities.

Year 7 students worked together to create a class mural showcasing the many uses of Pi, from architecture to engineering and beyond. Meanwhile, Year 8 had a sweet time measuring and comparing circular lollies, using their findings to solve problems related to volume and surface area—all incorporating the power of Pi!

The event was a fantastic way to combine learning with fun, reinforcing the importance of mathematics in our daily lives. A huge thank you to all the students and teachers who made Pi Day a great success!

Karen West and Priscilla Price
Acting Director and Coordinator of Mathematics

The Lindisfarne extra curricular Speech and Drama program continues to go from strength to strength. We have a record number of students enrolled in lessons and this year we broke another one of our records with five students topping the state by getting the highest mark in their external Speech and Drama exams.

At Lindisfarne experienced students from Year 4 onwards are able to sit for the Australian Music Education Board or Trinity College London.

The following students will perform and their achievement will be recognised at an award ceremony at Parliament House next term. We are so proud of these students and this very impressive achievement.

Ginny Lesley (Year 7) - AMEB

Oscar Nicol (Year 7) - AMEB

Beatrice Broad (Year 8) - AMEB

Madeline Neumann (Year 10) - Trinity College

Anna Haubek (Year 10) - Trinity College

Lara Hobbs
Performing Arts Administrative Assistant

Last Friday, we were delighted to host students and staff from Nabari Seihou High School, taking the next step in further cementing our revitalised sister school relationship. The day was filled with cultural exchange as International Prefect Thomas Cunnah, alongside our student buddies, warmly welcomed our guests. The visiting students actively participated in lessons, helped senior Japanese class students prepare for their upcoming assessments, and delivered engaging presentations on Japanese culture.

A standout moment was the AFL skills session with Mr Gilliland, where students showcased teamwork and sportsmanship. Nabari Seihou staff members, Mr Hiroshi Okamoto and Ms Yuri Matsubara were also warmly received by staff and students alike. They thoroughly enjoyed joining a range of classes, including Textiles and Design, English, Economics, Industrial Technology - Timber, and Visual Arts, sharing valuable insights and strengthening connections.

This visit has further invigorated our partnership with Nabari Seihou, reinforcing the importance of global connections and shared learning. As we take the next step in our revitalised sister school relationship, we look forward to expanding opportunities for collaboration, cultural exchange, and meaningful friendships between our students and staff.

Louise Godden
Japanese Teacher

On Thursday 13th March, Christopher Anderson guest performed with 5 times Grammy nominee and legendary American guitarist Robben Ford at The Princess Theatre in Brisbane. Robben, who has been performing for decades, is a giant in the music industry having played with Miles Davis (as a member of his band), Joni Mitchell, George Harrison and Larry Carlton to name a few.

It was an amazing night with Christopher performing his HSC piece “Revelation” (off Robben’s “Talk to Your Daughter” album) alongside Robben as well as a Blues piece “Black Night”. Given there was no time to rehearse or do a sound check with Robben’s band (they had flown across from Perth that day arriving just in time for the evening performance), Christopher was thrown in the deep end to improvise the “Revelation” solo and all of “Black Night”.

To view the performance, please click on the link below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KBD0bXE-jU

Year 10 Food Technology students at Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School recently embarked on a fascinating journey through the history of food in Australia, focusing on traditional bush tucker. Guided by a deep respect for the culinary contributions of First Nations Peoples, the students explored both past and present-day preparations.

Throughout the course, students delved into the rich tapestry of Indigenous Australian food culture, gaining insight into the sustainable and innovative ways traditional ingredients have been used over thousands of years. This exploration culminated in an enjoyable assessment cook, where students worked in groups to prepare and present dishes inspired by their studies.

The final products were nothing short of remarkable, showcasing an impressive array of culinary skills and creativity. Among the diverse menu were Rosella Ribs paired with a refreshing Karkalla salad, tantalizing Chilli Mud Crab, mouth-watering fish tacos, hearty crocodile burgers, and a delightful lemon myrtle tart to finish the feast.

Mrs. Brennan praised the students' efforts, highlighting the exceptional quality of their work. She remarked, "The snapper fish tacos melted in your mouth," underscoring the high standard of cooking demonstrated by the Year 10 cohort.

This assessment not only allowed students to apply their knowledge and skills but also fostered a deeper appreciation for Australia's indigenous culinary heritage. It was a unique opportunity for these young cooks to honour the traditions and innovations of First Nations Peoples through their creations.

Karissa Wortmann
Food Technology Teacher