As we reach the final day of the school year, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey we have had together. This year has been filled with growth, learning and countless memorable moments. It has been a joy to watch our students develop and thrive in so many ways.
Our dedicated staff and supportive community have been instrumental in creating a positive and nurturing environment for our students. I am deeply grateful for the commitment and hard work of our teachers, the partnership with our parents, and the enthusiasm of our students.
Reading Awards
Reading Award certificates were handed out today to students across the Junior School who have demonstrated a commitment to reading on a nightly basis during Term 4. These work habits have been exceptional from a large number of students, and it is evident that their dedication has made a significant difference in the growth and progress observed throughout the year. This consistent approach to reading will continue to have a lasting impact on their development as they move forward.
Looking Forward to Next Year
As we celebrate the accomplishments of this year, we also look forward to the exciting opportunities that next year will bring. Our Junior School is excited to welcome Mr. Andre Hetebrueg, who will be teaching in Year 1. Andre has been teaching at Korumburra Primary School, and we are very much looking forward to welcoming him to our Junior School team at the beginning of next year.
2025 Prep - Year 4 Classroom Teachers
Prep B – Miss Charlotte Bassed
Prep L – Mrs. Kerryn Lynch
1H – Mr. Andre Hetebrueg
1P – Mrs. Sarah Pedersen
2O – Mrs. Meg Oudshoorn
2O – Mr. Rob Simpson
3K – Ms. Marcelle Krieg
3R – Mrs. Miranda Reich
4M – Ms. Kate Middleton
4S – Mrs. Fiona Smart
We also bid farewell to some of our cherished colleagues. We wish Mrs. Linda Austin all the best in her retirement, after 10 years of dedicated service at Newhaven College. We have been so fortunate to have had a teacher like Linda, cherished by so many preps, their families and our entire school.
We wish Mr. Matt Jackson and Mrs. Emma Jackson, all the very best as they embark on a year’s leave with their young family. We also say farewell to Mrs. Jenny Sipthorp, and I am pleased to announce that Mrs. Jo Savona will be teaching in the Middle School next year. Mrs. Jackyn Clark has been appointed Junior School Sports Coordinator. Thank you to these dedicated teachers, and we wish them all the very best!
Orientation Day
On Tuesday, 3rd December, each grade from Prep to Year 8 moved into their 2025 classes. Students had the opportunity to get to know their 2025 teacher as well as their classmates, including quite a few new students who were invited for the day. Our current Year 4 students spent the day in Middle School where they also had sessions with their Year 5 classroom and Middle School teachers for 2025.
Junior School Leaders in 2025
I am proud to announce our Year 4 2025 Captains. Congratulations to all of our Year 3 students who applied for a captaincy position, your efforts were impressive. We look forward to seeing our 2025 Year 4 students take on their new roles as leaders, serving as role models and embracing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. See below the list of Captains for 2025.
Celebrating Our Final Day
To celebrate our final day, Pastor Andre ran a Christmas Assembly for our students and teachers. This was a lovely opportunity for us to come together, enjoy Christmas carols and reflect on the special meaning behind Christmas. A time to celebrate the season of joy, peace and goodwill with our school community.
To continue these celebrations, we held a Junior School Picnic for staff, students and families. This provided an opportunity to say goodbye to one another before the Christmas break and enjoy an afternoon together. We would like to thank our Class Representatives who have done a fabulous job in organising our Junior School picnic.
As we conclude this year, I want to extend my gratitude to everyone for their incredible support and the wonderful year we have had. Your dedication and partnership in your child's education have made this year very special.
I wish everyone a lovely Christmas filled with joy and warmth. Enjoy this precious time with your loved ones. We look forward to an exciting year ahead, but until then, have a very Happy Christmas and New Year.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Junior School Celebration Evening
Last week our entire Junior School, students from Prep to Year 4, parents, teachers and College leadership, came together to celebrate the end of 2024. The celebration was a fitting end to the school year as the success of all students was celebrated. Junior School students were presented with a certificate of achievement for completing a wonderful year of learning and improvement. The students demonstrated their talents with singing, music and spoken word performances onstage.
The proceedings for the evening were professionally presented by the Junior School Captains and Vice Captains, Edward Lee, Chloe Shapardon, Eden Hallas and Leith Cameron.
Junior School Captains 2025
I am proud to announce our Year 4 2025 Captains. Congratulations to all of our Year 3 students who applied for a captaincy position, your efforts were impressive. We look forward to seeing our 2025 Year 4 students take on their new roles as leaders, serving as role models and embracing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
Junior School Captains Dallas Latham, Nate Kondarios, Peyton Rhee and Venus Herath Mudiyanselage
Sambell House Captains Mila Potter and Coco Russo
McHaffie House Captains Bridget Doig and Levi Naarden
Bass House Captains Billy Kimber and Ruby Pirouet
Clarke House Captains Georgia Evans and Austin Lynch
Performing Arts Captains Lucy Pedersen and Audrey Mantel
Wellbeing Captains Indy Van Damme and Savannah James
Cath Huther
Head of Senior School
Year 4 Graduation Assembly
Our Year 4 Graduation Assembly was held yesterday and celebrated our Year 4s with the theme 'Spread your Wings.' Our Year 4 students presented to the Junior School students, staff and families and offered advice or shared something they loved about their time at Newhaven College. It was lovely to hear these reflections and appreciation of the very positive memories that these students will take with them.
As we farewell our Year 4 students into Middle School, we are fortunate to continue watching them develop and thrive as they take on new challenges and experiences.
Year 2 'Our Island Home' Book
Everyone, of all ages, should take the time to enjoy the magnificent book 'Our Island Home' created by our Year 2 classes (2P and 2O) this year. With assistance from their dedicated teachers, Mrs Sarah Pedersen and Mrs Meg Oudshoorn, this book is one that will remain a favourite at Newhaven College.
Click here or on the image below to read the whole book:
