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- Principal's Message
- Secondary Coordinator Message
- A Message from the Welfare Team
- Year 11 Mental Health and Wellbeing Program
- Debating Competition
- Harmony Day
- Science Excursion to the Museum of Human Disease
- SWISSA
- English
- TAS
- HSIE
- Visual Arts
- Turkish Language Lessons
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- PDHPE
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Dear Maarif Parents,
At International Maarif Schools of Australia, our highest priority is the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families. We appreciate your continued support in maintaining a safe environment during busy drop-off and pick-up periods.
I want to remind all parents and carers of the importance of safe and lawful driving around school zones. School zones are in place outside every school to keep children safe during school travel times. Children are small, harder to see, behave unpredictably, and are vulnerable in traffic environments. They need drivers to exercise extra caution at all times. For this reason, increased fines and demerit points apply for certain offences committed within school zones.
In particular, we wish to highlight concerns around U-turns and 3-point turns near the school. Performing U-turns or 3-point turns in a school zone significantly increases the risk to children due to the unpredictable movement of vehicles and limited visibility.
To help keep our students safe, we ask that you:
- Avoid performing U-turns or 3-point turns near the school.
- Follow all road signage and markings carefully.
- Continue around the block if you need to change direction.
We urge all drivers to take extra care when parking in school zones. We can provide a safer environment for all children by working together to safe driving practices.
Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and commitment to road safety.
As we head into the two-week school holiday, I wish all our families a safe, restful, and enjoyable break. I hope this time offers a fantastic opportunity for relaxation, quality family moments, and recharging for the term ahead.
During the break, I encourage parents to monitor their children’s screen time and online activities. While we understand that devices are often part of daily life, it is vital to ensure that screen time is balanced and purposeful.
We strongly encourage all students to read, read and read during the holidays. Reading is one of the most powerful ways for children to maintain and strengthen their learning. In addition, engaging in writing activities—such as journaling or storytelling—will help them consolidate their learning and keep their minds active.
For families looking to include beneficial screen time, we remind you that students can access our online learning platforms. Younger students can continue using Reading Eggs, while all year levels can benefit from Maths Online and Education Perfect. These tools are a great way to keep learning fun and meaningful over the break.
We also encourage our Math Olympiad students to review their past questions and continue practising in preparation for the upcoming competitions.
Thank you for your ongoing support. We look forward to welcoming everyone back, refreshed and ready for another great term of learning.
Best regards,
Dr Zeynep Yaseen
Principal
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we approach the end of Term 1, it's an excellent opportunity to reflect on how busy and productive the term has been. Our students have engaged enthusiastically in various academic and extracurricular activities, demonstrating commitment, growth, and school spirit.
Our SWISSA sports teams have made incredible progress this term, and I commend the dedication and effort of our student athletes and their coaches.
We are also proud of our debating team, which continues to impress with its articulate arguments and strategic thinking. They have advanced through the latest stage of the ISDC competition, and we look forward to seeing their continued success.
As we prepare for Term 2, here is a reminder that students will be required to wear the winter uniform, which includes the school blazer and hat. Please ensure your child is prepared for the change in uniform requirements.
This week’s Parent-Teacher Interviews provided a valuable opportunity for families to connect with their child’s teachers and gain insight into their academic progress. If you cannot attend, we encourage you to contact the school to arrange a meeting with your child’s subject teachers.
Finally, I wish all our families a safe, restful, and enjoyable holiday break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for another exciting and enriching term.
Kind regards,
Mrs Adeba Qasim
Secondary School Coordinator
A Message from the Welfare Team
Social Media and Gaming: Effects, Safety, and What Parents Need to Know
Social media and gaming have become central parts of teenage life in today's digital world. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat allow young people to connect, share, and explore different cultures. Similarly, gaming offers entertainment, social interaction, and educational benefits, whether on consoles, PCs, or mobile devices. However, while these digital activities have positives, they also come with risks. Students and parents need to know about the effects of social media and gaming, how to stay safe, and how families can work together to create a healthy balance.
The effects of social media and gaming can be both positive and negative.
Social media allows teenagers to stay in touch with friends, meet people with shared interests, and participate in online communities. Gaming also provides a space for teamwork and communication. Many games improve problem-solving, strategic thinking, and coordination, while social media platforms can be valuable tools for learning and staying informed. Additionally, platforms like TikTok and YouTube allow young people to express themselves creatively through videos, art, and writing. However, excessive social media and gaming use can lead to issues such as reduced physical activity, sleep problems, and difficulty focusing on schoolwork. Online interactions can sometimes turn negative, resulting in cyberbullying, harassment, or exposure to harmful content. Studies suggest that overuse of social media may contribute to anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues, particularly when individuals compare themselves to others online. Furthermore, some digital spaces expose young users to inappropriate or dangerous content, including violent or explicit material.
Staying Safe Online
Safety should always be a priority on social media or online games. Here are key tips for students:
- Protect Personal Information – Never share personal details such as your full name, address, school, or passwords.
- Use Privacy Settings – Adjust privacy settings on apps and games to control who can see your information.
- Be Cautious with Strangers – Not everyone online is who they claim to be. Avoid sharing personal details with strangers.
- Think Before You Post – Anything shared online can be permanent. Avoid posting anything that could harm your reputation or others.
- Take Breaks – To avoid screen fatigue and mental health issues, set time limits and take breaks from social media and gaming.
- Report and Block – If you experience cyberbullying or encounter inappropriate content, report it and block the user.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents play an essential role in guiding their children through the digital world. They should stay informed about the platforms and games their child uses, as understanding trends can help have meaningful discussions. Setting boundaries is also essential, as well as encouraging balanced screen time and promoting offline activities. Open conversations are key; talking to children about their online experiences, the people they interact with, and any concerns they have can foster trust and awareness. Using parental controls on devices and apps can help restrict content and monitor usage, providing an added layer of safety. Lastly, parents should lead by example by demonstrating healthy screen habits, balancing their own screen time, and prioritizing face-to-face interactions.
Social media and gaming can be great tools for connection, learning, and entertainment. However, understanding the risks and adopting safe habits are essential. By working together, students and parents can create a positive digital environment where technology is used responsibly and safely.
Mrs Ayse Tokyurek, and Mr Muhammed Ordukaya
Welfare Coordinators
Year 11 Mental Health and Wellbeing Program
Throughout Term 1, Year 11 students engaged in a structured wellbeing program comprising a series of targeted sessions to foster personal development and enhance mental wellness. Each week addressed a distinct area of psychosocial growth:
- Week 1: Stress Management
- Week 2: Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Week 3: Time Management and Balancing Academic and Personal Life
- Week 4: Developing Resilience
- Week 5: Cultivating Positive Leadership Skills
The program was designed to promote self-awareness, critical reflection, and the acquisition of practical strategies that students can implement across various domains of their lives. Students were encouraged to explore the interconnections between emotional regulation, academic success, and interpersonal effectiveness through guided discussions and experiential learning activities.
On Tuesday, April 8th, our Stage 4 and Stage 5 debating teams travelled to Malek Fahd Islamic School to participate in the Islamic Schools Debating Competition Gala Day.


Teams had the opportunity to dedicate themselves to preparing their arguments for one debate the day before the gala. This debate tested students' ability to work as a team to create a model for their given topic and anticipate the opposing team's arguments before the debate began. This first debate was on the theme of Law and Order, and both teams, after rigorous preparation, came up against Al Noori.
Stage 4 bravely argued against the topic 'That we should abolish all forms of prison for people under eighteen years of age', facing off against Alnoori Muslim School. The Stage 5 debate was a thrilling challenge, and our team's performance was commendable, even though we narrowly missed out on a win. Stage 4 showed remarkable resilience and dominated their opposition, emerging victorious.




The second debate of the day was a unique challenge, an impromptu discussion. Teams were expected to prepare for one hour without any technology. This task, much harder than it seems, tested students' knowledge of topics relevant to their world. Both Maarif teams rose to the challenge and won this round of the Gala Day, impressing adjudicators with their well-thought-out arguments.


Congratulations to both teams on their wins, particularly the students who had never debated before. We eagerly anticipate the next round in May, hoping to see even more impressive performances.
To celebrate Harmony Day, our students put in tremendous effort, embracing the powerful metaphor of bridges—symbols of unity, connection, and understanding. In a vibrant display of hard work and collaboration, each student designed and crafted a unique bridge, reflecting the core values of inclusivity and diversity that define this special day.






These miniature masterpieces represented more than just architectural imagination—they stood as visual reminders of the importance of reaching out, coming together, and celebrating the richness of our differences.


Adding to the spirit of cultural appreciation, students brought delicious dishes from diverse backgrounds to share with their classmates. The classroom was transformed into a joyful tapestry of flavours, stories, and traditions, allowing everyone to taste and appreciate the many cultures that make up our school community.
Science Excursion to the Museum of Human Disease














Congratulations to our Under 15 Girls’ team, who delivered a fantastic performance and secured 3rd place in their division! Their dedication, teamwork, and determination throughout the competition truly paid off, and they represented the school with pride and sportsmanship.


Other teams also put in strong efforts, with many close games and moments of brilliance. While luck wasn’t always on our side this time, every student gave it their all and showed outstanding commitment and enthusiasm on the field. The experience gained this term will only strengthen our teams for future competitions.


We are incredibly proud of all our students who participated in SWISSA. With continued training, teamwork, and passion, we’re confident that the next term will bring more tremendous success.
Well done to all involved!
Mr Recep Oz
PDHPE Coordinator
Students from Years 7-11 have been finalising assessment tasks over the last two weeks and consolidating their learning as the term ends. Students should be proud of their efforts and the solid start to the year. We challenged them with new concepts and set the bar high in our expectations. Students rose to the occasion and impressed us with their insight and critical thinking skills.
Year 7
Students explored the conventions of the fantasy genre through the close novel study of A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness. They examined how the author uses narrative devices to tell an engaging and meaningful story and demonstrate character development. During their learning, students had opportunities to engage in potent and relevant discussions regarding the novel’s themes of family & growing up, loneliness & isolation, denial & acceptance, grief & loss, and the role of storytelling.
Year 8
Students explored the relationship between man and the environment by studying the novel, Trash by Andy Mulligan. They applied a range of critical reading and viewing strategies in response to several related texts, including Trash, the short documentary film Waste Not, the ABC series War on Waste, the feature documentary Waste Land, the photographic expose Running the Numbers and a series of suggested articles, blogs, media clips and websites related to this inquiry topic and a sustainability theme.
Year 9
Students explored Archie Roache’s autobiography this term, delving into the rich tapestry of personal narratives that illuminate the diverse human experience. Through the lens of autobiographies, students navigated the complexities of Indigenous perspectives, unearthing the profound connections between storytelling and cultural heritage. By engaging with these voices, students deepened their understanding of Indigenous histories. They cultivated a heightened appreciation for their heritage and a profound respect for the diversity that enriches our shared human story.


Year 10
Students studied Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 in conjunction with its filmic adaption, Kurt Wimmer’s Equilibrium (2002). They gained a new and deeper appreciation for prose fiction and film texts and how they provide a voice for the authors’ experiences, beliefs, and experiences of the world. Events. They also considered how context shapes meaning and representation and discussed the effect of changing context on meaning in their critical and creative responses. Students will examine the impact of individuals responding to ideologies and critique the societies depicted in the texts. By comparing the novel in a comparative study of the film Equilibrium (2022) by Kurt Wimmer (or key scenes from other films) and short stories, students understood why ideologies are imposed and promoted and what happens when challenged.
Year 11
This term, students developed the skills and knowledge to appreciate, understand, analyse, compose, and evaluate texts. They had the opportunity to read and respond to various texts, including short stories, visual texts, poetry, discursive texts, TED talks, and speeches. Students learned to reflect on their reading, reflect on the writing process, and engage in the ongoing development of their writing.
Ms Susan Naser, Mrs Canan Korkut, Mrs Melike Turgut
English Coordinator & English Teacher
Year 7
Year 8











Ms Beyza Nur Çelik and Mr Mitchell Gordan
TAS Teacher
Year 7
Year 7 Students have successfully submitted their assessments relevant to historical cases. Students have developed essential historical skills and achieved outstanding grades. I wish Year 7 students an enjoyable holiday.
Year 8
Year 8 History students have participated in groups and successfully conducted their virtual museum assessment with great understanding and insight into the Ottoman Empire. Their upcoming unit of work, 'The Mongolian Empire, will surely be another successful exploration of culture, trade, and invasion. I wish Year 8 students a safe and enjoyable holiday, confident in their abilities and accomplishments.
Year 9
Year 10


Year 11
Year 11 Society and Culture students have been refining their ability to write high-quality extended responses. They began by annotating Band 6 sample answers, identifying the features of sophisticated reactions—such as clear structure, strong use of social and cultural concepts, and thoughtful analysis across the micro, meso and macro levels. Students then worked collaboratively to reconstruct a Band 3 response, improving its clarity, structure, and depth. This hands-on activity has been instrumental in helping students understand the expectations for senior writing and build confidence in their work.






Year 11 Legal Studies class recently had the exciting opportunity to participate in a mock trial at the Justice and Police Museum in Sydney. In this authentic setting, students entered the shoes of lawyers, magistrates, witnesses and jurors to conduct a criminal trial. This engaging experience helped deepen their understanding of court procedures, the criminal justice system, and the importance of legal principles like the presumption of innocence and the burden of proof. It was a valuable and memorable way to bring classroom learning to life.
Ms Burcin Taskin & Ms. Aysha Imtiyas
HSIE Teachers
As Term 1 ends, we want to celebrate our Visual Arts students' incredible creativity, hard work, and artistic growth. Each year, the group tackles unique themes and develops their skills with outstanding commitment. We couldn't be prouder of what they've achieved.
Year 7
Our Year 7 students started their high school Visual Arts journey with the unit Me, Myself and I, where they explored the world of self-portraiture. They investigated each of the elements of Art—line, shape, form, space, texture, colour, and value—while experimenting with a range of methods such as crosshatching and texture-based activities. From contour drawings to expressive recreations inspired by artists like Matisse and Doğançay, their sketchbooks blossomed with thoughtful and personal works. Their final self-portrait assessments were a testament to their technical development, showcasing a more profound sense of individual expression. I am so proud of how they've embraced the process. Even as the term ended, the students' creativity in creating portraits from posters and graphics was terrific! I cannot wait to see their creativity shine in Term 2 as we explore landscape art through watercolour painting!

















Year 8
Year 10
Year 10 students have been making steady and thoughtful progress on their major self-portrait collage projects, which are due for submission next term. Seeing students' commitment and creativity in their work has been encouraging, with many demonstrating strong planning and a clear artistic vision. Students have been exploring how to effectively incorporate personal symbols, varied materials, and layered textures to create meaningful and visually engaging compositions. The classroom has been abuzz with experimentation and critical thinking as students refine their ideas and techniques. With some creative and innovative concepts already emerging, the final artworks promise to be expressive and unique representations of each student's identity. Students are encouraged to continue developing their pieces over the holiday break to ensure they are well-prepared to receive feedback and make any final adjustments early next term.
Ms. Noor Elmubasher & Mr Mitchell Gordon
Visual Arts Teachers
Exploring Legacy – Miras – in Year 11 Turkish Continuers
Our Year 11 Turkish Continuers students have been on a journey of personal growth, delving into the Miras (Legacy) concept. They are exploring how individuals and events shape history and influence future generations. This unit invites students to reflect on how people respond to opportunities and challenges and how their actions leave lasting impressions on communities and cultures.
Through the Legacy theme, students have been investigating the contributions, achievements, and enduring influence of Turkish-speaking individuals and communities—from historical figures to contemporary changemakers. They have explored topics such as:
- Historical Events That Shaped Turkish-Speaking Communities
- Timeless Turkish Traditions That Have Endured Through Generations
As part of this study, each student was assigned to a different region of Türkiye. They are researching the region's legacy and considering how this knowledge can be practically applied, including its architectural landmarks (mimari yapılar), local cuisine, significant historical figures, and cultural contributions.
This engaging activity is not just about academic learning. It's about personal growth and cultural connection. It's about deepening students' understanding of Türkiye's rich heritage and strengthening their connection to their language and cultural identity.
Mrs Canan Korkut, Mrs Ayse Tokyurek, and Ms Melike Turgul
Turkish Teachers




Mr Mitchell Gordan
Music Teacher
As we wrap up a vibrant and productive term, students across all year levels have been actively engaged in learning experiences designed to build their health, wellbeing, and physical literacy. Here's a look at what each year level has been exploring in Health and Physical Education:
Year 7
Year 7 students concluded the term by exploring the theme of transitions and changes, a fitting focus as they adjust to high school life. In our final lesson, students participated in a resilience workshop where they had open and honest conversations about how to face challenges, support one another, and develop positive communication skills. It was encouraging to see students build confidence and form stronger peer connections during this session.
Year 8
Year 8 students explored the topic "Be Healthy" this term, focusing on evaluating their movement competence and applying movement skills in dynamic situations. Through team-based games and activities, students investigated how various personal and environmental factors influence health. They demonstrated an increased ability to adapt movement skills, work collaboratively, and reflect on their health choices.
Year 9
Year 9 students examined various health-related issues and developed strategies to support their own wandoothers' wellbeing.. They explored ways to stay safe, active, and informed in an ever-changing world. The unit encouraged students to consider their role in shaping a healthier community and provided them with tools to make responsible and proactive health choices.
Year 9 – Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS)
In PASS, Year 9 students explored the importance of physical activity in everyday life and how it connects to lifelong health and wellbeing. They investigated the physical, social, and emotional benefits of staying active. They took part in both theory-based and practical lessons. Students also examined how sports and fitness influence identity, relationships, and decision-making. They enhanced their movement skills, teamwork, and personal goal-setting abilities through various sports and training activities.
Year 10 – Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS)
Year 10 PASS students explored two exciting modules this term. In Physical Activity for Health, they investigated the values, attitudes, and influences that affect participation in physical activity. Students identified barriers and proposed strategies to improve physical activity levels in their community, aiming to enhance overall wellbeing.
They also completed a module on Energy Systems and Health, exploring how the body produces and uses energy during different types of physical activity. Students analysed aerobic and anaerobic systems and applied their knowledge to practical sessions, improving their understanding of how the body fuels performance and movement.
Year 10 – Health and Wellbeing
Year 10 students investigated the themes of Healthy Wellbeing and Relationships, with a strong focus on bullying, harassment, and respectful relationships. They explored the impact of identity, empathy, and emotional responses in various social situations. Students reflected on transitions in their lives and how these affect their relationships and develop practical strategies to support their wellbeing and that of others.
Year 11 – Health, Movement and Science
Year 11 students explored Health for Individuals and Communities, focusing on how different factors shape health outcomes. They examined the complex interplay of social, economic, and environmental influences on health. They developed skills to evaluate health information and indicators. This unit encouraged students to view health through multiple lenses and think critically about addressing health issues at individual and community levels.
Basketball and Movement Skills Across All Ages
Throughout the term, every student from Years 7 to 11 has also participated in basketball. Through this sport, they developed fundamental movement skills such as dribbling, passing, and shooting and specialised movement skills involving teamwork, strategy, and spatial awareness. These activities have supported students in building physical confidence, coordination, and enjoyment of movement.
We are incredibly proud of the effort and enthusiasm shown by all students this term. We wish everyone a safe and relaxing break and look forward to another active and engaging term ahead!
Mr. Recep Oz and Ms Aslihan Agyar
PDHPE Coordinator and Teachers
Year 7


Year 8






Year 9


Year 10


I wish all my students a restful break as we wrap up the term. I encourage them to do light revision during the holidays to keep their learning fresh.




Year 11 Biology




We also began Module 2: Organisation of Cells. In Chapter 4, students explored the structure and differences between unicellular, multicellular, and colonial organisms with real-life visual examples. The topic of cell specialisation and differentiation sparked curiosity as students began to uncover the complex organisation of living systems. It's been a term full of exciting discoveries and active learning.
Mrs. Derya Koc Kalkan, Ms Beyza Nur Çelik, Ms Anureet Kaur, Ms Asli Agyar
Science Teachers




Dr Zeynep Yaseen, Ms Lark Lu, & Ms Ying Li
Maths Teachers
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.










Mr Muhammed Ordukaya & Mr Fahri Islek
Secondary Islamic Studies Teacher




Mrs Adeba Qasim and Ms Noor Elmubasher
Design and Technology Teachers
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.
TERM 1 EVENT | DATE |
NAPLAN Week | 12 March - 24 March |
Year 3-11 School Iftar | 11 March |
Ramazan Gift Exchange | 27 March |
Ramazan Bayramı/Eid-Ul-Fitr | 31 March |
Harmony Day | 7 April |
Last Day for Students | 10 April |
Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews | 11 April |
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