International Maarif Schools of Australia eNewsletter

Dear Maarif Parents,

You can finally take a breath! 2024 has come to an end, and we have had so many events in the past few weeks that everyone is exhausted. However, we had an amazing year. Last week, we hosted very special guests from Türkiye. The President of the Turkish Maarif Foundation, Prof. Dr. Birol Akgün, and the CEO of Turkish Airlines, Bilal Ekşi, visited our Gallipoli campus for a wonderful gathering with some of our students and teachers.

The Primary School Awards Night was truly spectacular; we all enjoyed the musical notes and the students' performances. We presented our Four Values Awards, recognizing Respect, Honesty, Cooperation, and Excellence. Additionally, we honoured students with Music Awards, Sports Awards, Turkish Speaker Awards (for both native and non-native speakers), Academic Excellence Awards, and national awards like the Australasian Problem Solving Mathematical Olympiads, one of the most influential math competitions in the world. Each year, over 100,000 students across Australia and New Zealand participate in this competition, solving math problems. These awards reflect our students' dedication and achievements.

The Secondary School Awards Night was also a great success. We celebrated national awards such as the Jason Clare Community Service Award, the Pursuit of Excellence Award by Cumberland Council, and the Turkish Airlines Surprise Award. The event was attended by the Honorable Jason Clare, Minister for Education, Cumberland’s new Mayor Ola Hamed, the General Manager of Turkish Airlines in Australia and New Zealand Ahmet Halid Kutluoglu, Consul General Belgin Ergüneş, and Vice Consuls Cem Gençoğlu and Özcan Gökçebay. From Shakespeare's plays to folk dances, the night was full of incredible performances.

A highlight of both evenings was the Maarif Medal, a special award given to two students who consistently embody all four school values and collect the highest number of value cards among primary and secondary school students.

I would like to congratulate all our students who received national and school awards.

Please take the time to rest, read more books, and create lasting memories during your holiday. Be ready to share your holiday stories when you return!

Best regards,

Dr Zeynep Yaseen

Principal

Dear parents and Guardians,

As we come to the end of the 2024 academic year, we reflect on what an amazing year it has been. We have had the honour of welcoming the President of the Turkish Maarif Foundation, Professor Birol Akgun, and the Maarif Asia Pacific Representative, Mr Salih Sagir. Professor Birol Akgun was welcomed by our Director Tacettin Gunaydin, School Principal Dr Zeynep Yaseen, leadership team, staff, students, and parents at the airport. Our students had the honour of being flag bearers.

Mr Abdurrahim Dusak, Mr Omer Faruk Kılıckaya, and Mr Tahir Ak and Gülben Ergen were honoured guests who had also visited our school, toured the classes, and saw special performances from our primary school choir and folk dance.

Our proud moment was hosting the inaugural Secondary School Award Night. This event showed the growth of our school. We are very proud of our students' performances on the night. It was a fantastic night.

Students have completed their assessment tasks. The semester 2 Reports will be available to parents via the parent portal.

We wish all students and families a happy and safe holiday and look forward to seeing everyone again in 2025!

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at adeba.qasim@maarif.nsw.edu.au  

Kind regards,

Mrs Adeba Qasim

Secondary School Coordinator

On 30 November 2024, the International Maarif Schools of Australia had the honour of welcoming the President of the Turkish Maarif Foundation, Professor Dr Birol Akgün, along with the Maarif Asia Pacific Representative, Mr Salih Sağır. This special occasion highlighted the strong ties between our school and the global Maarif community.

The visit commenced with a welcome by the primary school choir and folk dance group. Their lively performances celebrated the rich cultural heritage of both Australia and Türkiye.

Professor Dr Akgün and Mr Sağır toured the school facilities and inspected the construction site of our new buildings, expressing their enthusiasm for the growth and development of our campus. During their visit, they addressed staff and students, delivering powerful messages about the transformative role of education. They emphasised the value of understanding history to shape a better future and urged students to embrace learning as a lifelong journey.

On 29 November 2024, the International Maarif Schools of Australia proudly welcomed special guests from Türkiye: Mr. Abdurrahim Dusak, Mr. Omer Faruk Kılıckaya, and Mr. Tahir Ak. Their visit was a momentous occasion.

Our esteemed guests were treated to exceptional performances by the school folk dance team and the Primary School Choir, which showcased the richness of our shared cultural heritage.

In addition to enjoying the performances, our visitors toured the school, visited classrooms, and engaged with staff and students. They observed our dynamic learning environment and shared meaningful interactions, expressing admiration for the students' and educators' hard work and enthusiasm.

On 29 November 2024, a significant milestone was celebrated with the arrival of the inaugural Turkish Airlines flight to Sydney. This historic moment brought together distinguished guests, school leaders, staff, students, and parents for a truly memorable event.

Our students eagerly anticipated the arrival of special guests, including the President of the Turkish Maarif Foundation, Professor Dr. Birol Akgün. Upon his arrival, Professor Akgün was warmly welcomed by our School Director, Mr Tacettin Günaydın; School Principal, Dr Zeynep Yaseen; Operations Manager, Ms Ergül Ubaydın; Secondary School Coordinator, Ms Adeba Qasim; and Primary School Coordinator, Ms Reyhan Er.

Our students played a proud and pivotal role in the event as flag bearers, representing our school and community with great enthusiasm and pride. Their involvement added a touch of vibrancy and meaning to the celebrations.

On 29 October 2024, the International Maarif Schools of Australia welcomed Gülben Ergen, a celebrated Turkish singer and philanthropist, to our campus. Her visit excited and inspired students, staff, and the broader school community.

As part of her visit, Gülben Ergen enjoyed an exceptional performance by our talented school folk dance team, which showcased the vibrant rhythms and traditions of Turkish culture. The Primary School Choir also delighted the audience with a heartfelt rendition of beloved songs.

Gülben Ergen addressed the staff and students, sharing her experiences and wisdom. She emphasized the importance of education, self-expression, and cultural heritage in shaping young minds.

On Wednesday, 4 December 2024, International Maarif Schools of Australia proudly showcased our inaugural Secondary School Award Night. We had the honour of welcoming distinguished guests of the Honourable Education Minister Jason Clare, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye Ms Belgin Ergüneş, Education Attaché Assoc. Prof. Dr Cem Gencoglu, Vice Consul General Mr Özcan Gökçebay, Representatives of Turkish Airlines, Esteemed Director Mr Tacettin Gunaydin, Respected Principal Dr Zeynep Yaseen, and Distinguished Guests, Maarif staff, students and parents attended the event.

This year, the primary and Secondary School Award Nights were held separately to accommodate our growing school community. On the evening of 4 December 2024, our talented students took centre stage, showcasing their exceptional abilities and embodying the values of the Maarif community.

The event included powerful performances highlighting the students' creativity and dedication.

The dramatic and moving enactment of Shakespeare's Macbeth.
Actual events inspire the Turkish drama.
Original poetry readings by students, delivered with eloquence and passion.
The mesmerizing performance by the school choir.
An engaging Kahoot! The game created an interactive and lively atmosphere.

The award segment was the pinnacle of the evening, recognizing student achievements across a range of categories:

School Values Awards
Sportsmanship Awards
Turkish and Non-Turkish Speaker Awards
Academic Excellence Awards

The evening's crowning moment was the presentation of the Maarif Medal Award, our most prestigious honour. This year's recipient, Halima Haramabic, exemplified the perseverance, commitment, and excellence that this award celebrates.

We were proud to present several other significant awards:

Amira Khan received the Jason Clare Community Service Award for her unwavering commitment to the Maarif school community. In addition, she was awarded a return ticket to Türkiye by the representatives of Turkish Airlines in recognition of her exceptional contributions.
Selma Haramabic received the Cumberland Council Pursuit of Excellence Award. She received a plaque with her name on it to be displayed in the school office alongside a certificate acknowledging her outstanding accomplishments.

We were honoured by the presence of notable officials and community leaders whose support continues to inspire and elevate our school's mission of holistic education.

This memorable event would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of Ms Susan Naser and Ms Canan Korkut, whose meticulous planning ensured an extraordinary celebration of our students' achievements.

As part of Social Inclusion Week, our Year 7 and 8 students participated in the "Just Like You" program. This initiative fosters understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of people with disabilities. This interactive workshop challenged students to see beyond stereotypes, promoting the idea that people with disabilities, whether visible or hidden, are indeed "just like you."

The "Just Like You" program utilises evidence-based practices and aligns with the Australian Curriculum. Through engaging and dynamic sessions, students explored the importance of inclusivity, embracing the diversity that enriches our society.

The workshops encouraged students to reflect on their roles and actions as responsible and empathetic citizens within the school and the broader community. With lively discussions and activities, our students were inspired to rethink perceptions, embrace differences, and foster a more inclusive environment for everyone.

On the last Friday of the school year, high school students participated in a Resilience Workshop facilitated by the school’s PDHPE teacher. This engaging session provided a unique opportunity for students to reflect on their experiences throughout the year and gain practical tools for navigating challenges.

The workshop aimed to help students develop resilience—the ability to adapt and bounce back from difficult situations. Through activities, students explored how they approached various challenges during the year and learned strategies to handle stress, change, and setbacks.

Key elements of the workshop included:

Understanding Resilience: Students were introduced to the concept of resilience and how it applies to their academic and personal lives.
Reflective Activities: The exercises encouraged students to examine their responses to difficult situations, identify strengths, and recognise areas for improvement.
Skill Building: Practical tools such as mindfulness techniques, positive thinking strategies, and methods for seeking support were shared.
Peer Discussions: Group activities fostered an environment where students could share their experiences and learn from each other’s perspectives.

Most of the workshop was dedicated to revising how students reacted to events throughout the year. This allowed them to evaluate their coping mechanisms and consider what they could do differently.

One student shared, “Looking back, I realise how much I’ve learned about myself. I didn’t always handle things perfectly, but this workshop showed me that I can grow from those experiences.”

The workshop was about reflecting on the past and preparing for the future. Students walked away with a renewed sense of confidence and practical strategies for dealing with whatever challenges come next, whether in school or their personal lives.

“Resilience isn’t about being perfect; it’s about learning and moving forward,” commented one participant.

Resilience is vital for high school students, helping them manage stress, build stronger relationships, and maintain a positive outlook even during tough times. This workshop was a fitting way to end the school year, equipping students with a mindset of growth and determination as they prepare for what’s ahead.

It was a productive day and a valuable lesson to take forward—here’s to a stronger, more resilient future!

With assessments completed, Team English has seamlessly transitioned into consolidation mode. While the pressure of exams may be behind us, the momentum continues as we dedicate ourselves to reinforcing, revising, and summarising the array of skills and knowledge students have acquired throughout the year. This phase is crucial, as it helps students solidify their learning and build confidence in their abilities. We take immense pride in their efforts, particularly in their final tasks, and encourage them to reflect on their progress. At Maarif, our philosophy is simple yet powerful: education is a unique journey for every student. Our focus remains on achieving personal bests, embracing the idea that growth is measured individually, not in comparison to others.

This week, we turn our attention to the Secondary Awards Ceremony, a highlight of the school year. The English department is excited to play a key role in organising the program for this prestigious evening. It’s a time to shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of our students, showcasing their hard work and talent. The evening will also feature quality performances demonstrating Maarif’s holistic approach to education—where academics, creativity, and character development are equally valued.

We look forward to celebrating the incredible accomplishments of our students alongside their families and esteemed guests. It promises to be an inspiring and memorable event that reflects the spirit of our community.

Ms Susan Naser & Mrs Canan Korkut

English Coordinator & English Teacher

Year 7

Year 7 students engaged in an exciting engineered systems project, completing it in seven structured steps:

Research
Design
Vocabulary
Materials and Tools
Producing
Testing and Evaluating
Safety Practices.

Water-Elevating Systems: Students created innovative systems to solve real-world problems such as water scarcity and irrigation efficiency, focusing on designs like wells, pumps, and Archimedes’ screws.

Through the 1001 Inventions project, students discovered the pivotal contributions of Muslim scientists to today’s engineering and technology fields and recognized their influence on modern innovations.

This project emphasized the problem-solving nature of engineered systems. It encouraged students to draw connections between historical advancements, such as the invention of the wheel, and contemporary applications, such as the design of modern transportation systems.

Year 8

Year 8 students engaged in an exciting engineered systems project, completing it in seven structured steps:

Research
Design
Vocabulary
Materials and Tools
Producing
Testing and Evaluating
Safety Practices.

Students designed and constructed various car models powered by electricity, balloons, magnets, applied force, or rubber bands. They explained their projects through force, motion, and energy.

Students delved into the significance of ethics, sustainability, social values, and profitability in design and technology. Using an Australian company as a case study, they analyzed how these principles guide decision-making in the industry, inspiring a new generation of ethical and sustainable designers.

This hands-on project enabled students to connect theoretical concepts to practical applications. It fostered their understanding of engineering and its pivotal role in sustainable innovation, instilling a sense of hope for a better future.

Ms Beyza Nur Çelik

TAS Teacher

Year 7 Geography

Year 7 students have wrapped up their final exams and are now getting into a hands-on unit that builds their core geographical skills. They are learning to use 4-grid and 6-grid references to find locations on maps, create and analyse climate graphs to understand weather patterns and explore scale and direction to improve their map-reading abilities. These activities are not just about Geography – they help students think critically, interpret information, and see the world through a new lens. Students develop confidence in working with geographical tools and data by practising these skills. They are also beginning to appreciate how geography connects to other subjects like science and mathematics.

Year 8 Geography

Year 8 students have finished their exams and started focusing more on Geography skills. They are working with choropleth maps to explore patterns, analysing real-world examples of connections between people and places, and discussing important topics like sustainability and climate impacts. These lessons help students understand how humans and the environment interact while building valuable skills like data interpretation and critical thinking. Students better understand global issues and their role in creating sustainable solutions through their activities. They are encouraged to discuss and share their perspectives, sparking meaningful classroom conversations.

Year 9 – Geography

Year 9 students have made significant strides in their geographical skills this term through the unit "Changing Places." They have delved into various methods to understand and interpret the changing nature of places.  Year 9 geography students attended an excursion to Parramatta to explore the city's rich historical and developing urban landscape. Additionally, students could cycle around the Silverwater Boat ramp to observe the transformation of areas over time, from early colonisation to a modernised society. We are proud of their growth and development.

Year 10 – Geography

This term, Year 10 students have completed the unit of work "Changing Places." With the support and guidance of our dedicated educators and parents, students have developed geographical skills, delving into various methods to understand and interpret the issues and concerns of well-being on a global scale. We wish Year 10 students a safe and enjoyable summer break and express our gratitude for your continued support.

Ms Burcin Taskin & Ms. Aysha Imtiyas

HSIE Teachers

As we approach the end of the school year, I am delighted to reflect on the incredible achievements of our Visual Arts students across all year levels. This year has been a journey of growth, exploration, and discovery, from the initial strokes of their first project to the culmination of their creative efforts. Each class embraced their artistic challenges with determination and creativity, resulting in outstanding work celebrating their unique talents and perspectives.

Year 7

Year 7 students have engaged in diverse projects that encouraged them to explore personal and cultural narratives. Their journey began with "Me, Myself, and I," a portrait painting unit that introduced them to foundational techniques in depicting identity. This was followed by "Interpreting Landscapes," a mixed-media portfolio that allowed them to explore the natural world through an artistic lens. The term continued with "Lost and Found," a sculptural project that transformed recycled materials into thought-provoking artworks. Finally, they concluded the year with "Mapping Memory," a printmaking project that blended personal reflection with artistic expression. Witnessing their creative growth and confidence throughout the year has been incredible.

Year 8

Year 8 students embarked on a journey of creative exploration, starting with "Australian Art," where they studied dot painting techniques to honour Indigenous art forms. They moved on to "Famous Faces," a painting and drawing project focused on capturing iconic personalities' essence. The term continued with a graffiti art project, where students thoughtfully designed impactful works aligned with our Maarif School Values. Finally, they honed their technical skills through portraiture and sketching techniques, demonstrating remarkable growth in capturing detail and expression. Their engagement and progress have been nothing short of inspiring.

Year 9

Year 9 students delved deep into storytelling and conceptual thinking through their projects. They began the year with "The Mad Tea Party," an art portfolio that brought sculpture, photography, and still-life techniques together to reimagine the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland. They then created meaningful portfolios for "Heroes and Celebrities," showcasing their chosen figures through mixed-media artworks and thoughtful artist statements. The year concluded with "Human Nature," a conceptual installation project exploring the complexities of human existence. Their ability to connect personal vision with artistic expression has been truly remarkable.

Year 10

Year 10 students explored the intersection of traditional and digital art forms, demonstrating impressive skill and innovation. The year began with "Bust It Out: Signs and Symbols," a unit focused on resolved still-life painting and sculptural work accompanied by insightful artist statements. They then transitioned into the digital realm with "CTRL + ALT + SHIFT," creating stunning portfolios of digital artworks, including vector art cereal boxes, abstract pieces, and dreamlike photography. Finally, they worked on "Public Art," designing installations that reflected their understanding of art's role in shared spaces. Their ability to balance technical skill and creative exploration has been exceptional.

This year has been a canvas of growth and achievement for our students. Their dedication to pushing creative boundaries and refining their skills has been a joy to witness. As we look forward to the next year, I am excited to see how these budding artists continue to evolve and inspire. I am confident their future artistic ambitions will be even more outstanding and inspiring.

Ms. Noor Elmubasher

Visual Arts and Music Teacher

Year 7 Advance Turkish

This week, in our Year 7 Advanced Turkish class, we had an engaging discussion about restaurants in Turkey. The students shared their previous dining experiences with their classmates, which helped expand their vocabulary on this topic. Following this, we read a text about ordering food in a restaurant. Together, we explored the phrases they can use when placing an order. The lesson continued with practical activities where the students practised ordering dialogues, showing significant progress in their learning and allowing them to apply the new expressions they learned.

Year 8 Beginner Turkish

In our Year 8 Beginner Turkish class this week, we discussed 23 Nisan Ulusal Egemenlik ve Çocuk Bayramı. We talked about the history and significance of this special day to help students gain a deeper understanding of its importance. As part of the lesson, we watched a video showing how this holiday is celebrated. The students actively took notes on what they observed in the video and used them to form Turkish sentences. Additionally, they completed related activities in their textbooks, learning new vocabulary and practising sentence construction.

Year 7 Beginner Turkish Students

The Year 7 Beginner Turkish students have reached the end of their successful year and completed their fourth and final term. This term, they studied the topics of "Seasons, weather conditions, and what to wear when?" and were assigned to create a bilingual poster on these subjects. This assignment helped students express their knowledge visually and textually, reinforcing their language skills.

In the last week, the students presented their posters to their classmates and explained them in detail. This activity provided an excellent opportunity for students to reinforce their learning while creating a fun and educational atmosphere. They evaluated each other's work and received feedback, enriching their learning experience.

Year 8 Advanced Turkish Students

Year 8 students have completed a successful year and deserve a good holiday. They studied the "Meal Time" unit this term, learning to give and receive recipes, gather information from menus, and place orders. They were tasked with creating a restaurant menu and writing a customer-waiter dialogue for their assessment project.

In the final week, the students used their menus to enact their written dialogues. This activity created a fun and educational environment. Students enhanced their language skills and reinforced their learning through group work and role-playing.

Year 9 Advanced Turkish Students

Year 9 advanced Turkish students have delved into the" Which Profession Suits Me? "unit this term, conducting extensive readings on various professions and career choices. To consolidate their learning, they were tasked with creating a PowerPoint presentation introducing different professions and interviewing a professional.

In the final week, students presented their prepared presentations to their classmates. This activity deepened their understanding of various careers and honed their presentation and interview skills. The students' active participation and creative presentations fostered an engaging and educational environment in the classroom. After a successful year, students are eagerly looking forward to their well-deserved holiday.

Year 10 Beginner Turkish Students

Year 10 beginner-level Turkish students have completed the "Celebrations and Special Days "unit this year. During this unit, they learned the names of various special occasions and their congratulatory and well-wishing expressions. They also practised using the future tense and making plans, which helped them improve their ability to use Turkish in everyday situations.

Additionally, they worked on incorporating expressions like ""veryone,"" "" ome,"" "" obody,"" and ""few"" takess"" ""azıları"" ""iç kimse"" ""ir çoğu"" ""ir kaçı"" into sentences, enhancing their understanding of Turkish sentence structures. These activities improved their language skills and enriched their cultural knowledge of Turkish traditions. We are proud of their hard work and dedication this year. Now, it's time for them to enjoy a well-deserved holiday!

Year 10 Advanced Turkish Students

Students Dive into the Inspiring Story of "Cep Herkülü: Naim Süleymanoğlu"

This week, our students had the opportunity to learn about a true legend through the movie Cep Herkülü: Naim Süleymanoğlu. As part of their home assignment, they watched the film at home, immersing themselves in the life and achievements of one of Turkey's greatest athletes.

The movie, which portrays Naim Süleymanoğlu's journey from a young weightlifting prodigy to an Olympic champion, captivated students with its inspiring story of determination, resilience, and national pride. The class discussions following the assignment were filled with insightful reflections as students answered questions about the film and explored its themes of hard work, courage, and overcoming adversity.

This activity allowed students to connect with an important figure in Turkish history and encouraged them to reflect on the values of perseverance and dedication.

Zeliha Uzun , Sever Meyra Biçer, Ayşegül Şeyma Akdemir

As the year draws to a close, our students have completed their final assessment tasks and received individual feedback on their performance.

Students in 10A tackled Quadratic Expressions and Equations, a challenging topic requiring conceptual understanding and methodical problem-solving.

Meanwhile, 10B focused on Measurement, Data, and Trigonometry, applying mathematical techniques to real-world scenarios.

Understandably, some students found it challenging to achieve their expected results. The cumulative effort of a long academic year and the pressure of final assessments took their toll. However, individual feedback sessions provided valuable opportunities for students to revisit their errors and solve questions they initially found challenging or left unanswered. This reflective practice is a vital step in their learning journey and sets the stage for growth in the coming year.

We hope all our students, families, and staff enjoy a refreshing and rejuvenating break. Have a wonderful holiday, stay safe, and stay healthy. We look forward to seeing everyone recharged and ready for the new academic year!

Dr Zeynep Yaseen, Mr Bahadir Korkut, Ms Lark Lu & Ms Mariam El Maarraoui

Maths Teachers

As we end another school year, we look back with pride and joy at the journey our Year 9 and 10 PASS (Physical Activity and Sports Studies) and PDHPE (Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education) students have taken. This year has been filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable experiences inside and outside the classroom.

Throughout the year, our students explored various topics designed to deepen their understanding of health, well-being, and physical activity. They delved into the Australian Dietary Guidelines, learning to make informed food choices to support their physical and mental health. Students also gained awareness of lifestyle diseases (like obesity and diabetes) and the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent them.

Beyond physical health, the students were challenged to build resilience, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Through group activities, competitive sports, and classroom discussions, they learned how to adapt to challenges, support one another, and stay motivated – skills that will benefit them for years.

Our students shone brightly during this year’s sporting events. The SWISSA Tennis Competition was a standout, with the girls’ team putting on an incredible performance to finish in second place! Their teamwork, effort, and perseverance were genuinely inspiring.

The Athletics Carnival was another highlight, bringing students together to showcase their talent, determination, and school spirit. Whether they were competing, cheering on their friends, or simply enjoying the day, the event was a brilliant display of the passion and energy that defines our school community.

A special mention goes to the Disability Basketball program, which offers our students a unique and eye-opening experience. This initiative taught them the value of inclusion and empathy and how sport can be adapted for everyone to enjoy.

The classroom was equally exciting this year. Students explored various engaging topics, from fitness principles and sports psychology to leadership and health promotion. Every week, students had an opportunity to learn something new through practical activities, lively discussions, or group projects.

We’re proud of how our students embraced each challenge and opportunity, making this year educational and enjoyable.

As we close out this fantastic year, we want to thank our students for their dedication, enthusiasm, and positivity. You’ve shown incredible growth, resilience, and willingness to learn; we couldn’t be prouder.

We wish you all a safe, happy, and relaxing holiday season. Take time to recharge, reflect on everything you’ve achieved this year, and prepare for another exciting year!

Ms Aslihan Agyar, Mr Yusufhan Diler

PDHPE Teachers

Years 7 and 8

I want to celebrate my students' fantastic achievements in our science lessons as the term ends. They have demonstrated remarkable curiosity, creativity, and determination throughout the year. From hands-on experiments that brought science to life to tackling challenging concepts with resilience, their passion for learning has been truly inspiring.

Their hard work and dedication in preparing for exams and assessments have not gone unnoticed. It's been a joy to watch them grow in their knowledge of science, confidence, and critical thinking skills. Whether exploring the natural world's mysteries or discovering the marvels of technology, they approached each lesson enthusiastically and eager to learn.

As we head into the summer break, I hope everyone takes this time to unwind, enjoy some well-deserved fun, and recharge for the exciting learning adventures ahead. Let the summer be filled with joy, relaxation, and opportunities to explore the world around you in new ways.
Wishing you all a safe, happy, and memorable summer!

Year 9 and 10

This week in Science, Year 9 students explored the fascinating world of light and optics through engaging activities and discussions. We started with plane mirrors, examining how light reflects and creates clear, virtual images. Students visualized these concepts in a video and participated in meetings to reinforce their understanding. Next, we investigated refraction—the bending of light through different materials. Using activities on Education Perfect, students explored how light changes direction and speed when transitioning between media like air and water.

We concluded with lenses, focusing on their role in magnifying and focusing light. Through interactive modules on Education Perfect, students learned how convex and concave lenses are used in everyday devices like glasses and cameras.

It's been a productive week, and students are developing a strong understanding of light behaviour. We encourage you to ask your child about these activities and their insights.

This week, Year 10 students embarked on an exciting journey through the cosmos as we explored some of the most fascinating topics in space science. Here's a brief overview of what we've been learning:

The Big Bang Theory: Students learned about the universe's origins, the evidence supporting this theory (like cosmic microwave background radiation), and how the universe continues to expand.
Stars and Galaxies: We delved into the different types of galaxies, the structure of our own Milky Way, and the life and composition of stars.
The Life Cycle of Stars: From nebulae to black holes, students traced the stages of a star's life and how its mass determines its fate.
Space and Its Impact on Life: We discussed how space exploration and understanding our universe contribute to technological advancements and knowledge about potential extraterrestrial life.

Students continued their exploration of the universe by diving into the fascinating role of space telescopes in uncovering the mysteries of the cosmos.

Space telescopes, such as the Hubble Space Telescope and the recently launched James Webb Space Telescope, are invaluable tools that allow scientists to study distant galaxies, stars, and planets beyond the capabilities of ground-based observatories. We discussed how these telescopes work, their unique locations in space, and the incredible images and data they provide to help us understand the origins and structure of the universe.

Please encourage your child to research more about space telescopes or share their thoughts on how these remarkable instruments deepen our understanding of the cosmos!

Mrs. Derya Koc Kalkan and Miss Betul Koyinci

Science Teacher

As the school year draws to a close, it's time to celebrate our students' incredible journey in Music. Across all year levels, students have explored diverse styles, instruments, and cultural influences, expanding their understanding of Music and its impact on the world. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and talent have made this year a truly harmonious experience.

Year 7

Year 7 students began their musical journey with an Introduction to Pop Music, exploring the elements that make this genre universally loved. They then transitioned to Music and Film, analyzing how soundtracks enhance storytelling and evoke emotion. Their exploration continued with World Music and Its Diverse Cultures, where they discovered musical traditions from around the globe—the year wrapped up with Australian Music, celebrating our nation's rich colonial and Indigenous musical heritage. Seeing their appreciation for different genres and cultures grow throughout the year has been inspiring.

Year 8

Year 8 students started the year by learning to play the ukulele and mastering chords and melodies, which built their confidence in practical music-making. They then delved into Theatre Music, exploring iconic musicals such as Phantom of the Opera, combining analysis and performance. This was followed by Parades Around the World, a study of celebratory Music and its role in cultural festivals. Finally, the year concluded with an introduction to Orchestras, where students examined various instruments' roles and symphonic Music's collaborative artistry. Their engagement and skill development have been remarkable.

This year, our music program has been filled with creativity, exploration, and growth. From the ukulele's first strum to the orchestra's final note, our students have shown a deep commitment to understanding and appreciating Music in all its forms. Their journey has been Music's symphony of achievement, and their remarkable growth is truly inspiring.

I look forward to seeing how they continue to develop their musical talents in the years ahead.

Ms. Noor Elmubasher

Visual Arts and Music Teacher

Assalamu Alaikum wa rahmetullahi wa barakatuh

All praise be to Allah (SWT) and may peace and blessings be upon His beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW), his family, companions and all those who follow him.

Alhamdulillah our students have completed the term memorising short surahs (namaz sureleri). Students who have already memorised these surahs were assigned other memorisations to do.

In Islamic Studies, Year 7 students briefly summarised the ‘story of the final Messenger’. Year 8 covered the topic of ‘good morality in Islam’. Year 9 was learning the characteristics of the prophet (saw) and etiquettes in Islam, and Year 10 students completed the book reading ‘Loving The Messenger (saw)’. Also, our Secondary male students attended Jumu’ah Prayers at Auburn Gallipoli Mosque throughout the year, which is the most virtuous and noble of days.

I ask Allah SWT to make this season a time of goodness and blessings, protect us from all harm and misfortune, fill our days with joy and ease, and grant us safe and smooth travels and holidays. Ameen!

Mr Muhammed Ordukaya

Secondary Islamic Studies Teacher

Year 9 and 10 commerce students embarked on an educational and fun journey at the iconic Luna Park this Monday. Luna Park was famous for its rich history, dazzling attractions, and unforgettable smiles. It was the perfect venue for exploring business practices in action.

The students spent the day observing how Luna Park operates as a business, learning about its origins, its evolution over the decades, and the strategies that keep it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. They delved into the park's pricing strategies, customer engagement methods, and maintenance of its nostalgic charm while embracing modern trends. From understanding the revenue streams created by rides, food, merchandise, and event hosting to exploring how Luna Park uses its branding to remain a landmark of joy, the students uncovered the secrets of running a successful amusement park.

Beyond the fun and games, the students worked hard, noting the challenges of maintaining a heritage site in a competitive entertainment industry. They admired how Luna Park balances tradition and innovation, using customer satisfaction as its cornerstone. This hands-on experience enriched their understanding of commerce in a way no textbook could replicate.

This adventure was not just about analyzing a business but also a reward for the students' incredible dedication throughout the year. From their engaging class discussions to the excitement of Market Day, where they showcased their entrepreneurial skills, these students have demonstrated hard work, creativity, and determination.

As we wrap up the term, we want to acknowledge the efforts of every student in 9 and 10 Commerce. Your commitment to learning and your innovative spirit have been genuinely inspiring. May this summer bring you the same joy and excitement that Luna Park offers its visitors daily.

Enjoy your well-earned break, and happy summer to all!

Ms Mariam El Maarraoui, Commerce Teacher

Our Year 9 and Year 10 Design and Technology students have completed their respective projects this term, showcasing creativity, skill, and determination.

The Year 9 students have finalised their chair designs. From contemporary styles to innovative and functional pieces, each project reflected the students’ unique ideas and dedication. It was amazing to see their hard work come to life, transforming simple materials into functional chairs.

Meanwhile, the Year 10 students have completed their jewellery projects, producing intricate designs. The process was both fun and engaging.

Both projects allowed students to develop practical skills, solve design challenges, and express creativity.

I wish all my Design and Technology students continued success in their future endeavours.

Mrs Adeba Qasim

Design Technology Teacher

We request that our parents and/or carers be extra cautious during school drop-off and pick-up times. Please ensure NSW Government rules regarding road safety are being followed and adhered to at all times.

This means:

- Respecting the road rules and signs, and driving within the speed limit of 40km/h in a school zone.

- Parking safely in designated parking areas or in drop off/pick up zones.

- No double parking, as it is dangerous and illegal.

- Three-point turns and U-turns are not permitted in school zones, as not only is it dangerous for students and other vehicles but also causes traffic congestion.

- Follow the directions of our school crossing supervisors.

- Give way to our School Bus drivers.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Road_Safety.pdf

Road_Safety _pdf 1.68 MB

2024_Maarif_Calendar.pdf

2024_Maarif_Calendar _pdf 3.35 MB

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