As we reach the final days of the school year, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey we have shared 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.
Home Learning Awards
Home Learning Award certificates will be handed out to students across the Junior School who have demonstrated a commitment to reading and number fluency on a nightly basis during Term 4.
Throughout the year, many students have displayed exceptional home learning habits, and it is evident that their dedication has made a significant difference to the growth and progress observed across the year. This consistent approach will continue to have a lasting impact on students as they move forward with their learning.
Looking Forward to Next Year
As we celebrate the achievements of this year, we also look ahead to the exciting opportunities that next year will bring.
Our Junior School is delighted to welcome Mrs Kylie Carlson, who will be teaching in Prep, and Ms Tahlia Maher, who will be teaching in Year 1. Kylie has been teaching at Cowes Primary School, and this is Tahlia’s first appointment as a Junior School teacher. We very much look forward to welcoming them both to our team at the beginning of next year.
2026 Prep–Year 4 Classroom Teachers
- Prep C – Mrs Kylie Carlson
- Prep L – Mrs Kerryn Lynch
- 1M – Ms Tahlia Maher
- 1P – Mrs Sarah Pedersen
- 2H – Mr Andre Hetebrueg
- 2S – Mr Rob Simpson
- 3K – Ms Marcelle Krieg
- 3R – Mrs Miranda Reich
- 3O – Ms Meg Oudshoorn
- 4M – Ms Kate Middleton
- 4F – Mrs Karen Faulwetter
We also bid farewell to Mrs Fiona Smart, who will be taking a year of leave in 2026. She will certainly be missed in the Junior School, and we wish Fiona a wonderful year ahead. We look forward to welcoming her back to Newhaven College in 2027.
Celebration Afternoon
Our students have been enthusiastically practising for our upcoming Celebration Afternoon, and we warmly invite all families to join us.
We look forward to welcoming you on Monday at 1:00pm to celebrate our Junior School students, their performances, and a wonderful year of learning, friendships, and fun at Newhaven College.
Celebrating Our Final Day
To celebrate our final day, we will hold a Christmas Assembly for our students and staff. This will be a special time to come together, enjoy Christmas carols, and reflect on the meaning of the season.
A reminder that the school day will finish at 2:20pm.
As we conclude the year, I would like to thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education. It has been a wonderful year, and we are so grateful to share this journey with you.
I wish everyone a joyful and safe Christmas filled with warmth and special memories with 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
Orientation Day
On Wednesday 3 December, each Year level from Prep to Year 4 moved into their 2026 classrooms. Students had the opportunity to meet their new teachers and classmates, and our Orientation program ran seamlessly.
With a new Year 3 class and 21 new students joining our school next year, along with 44 new Preps, students felt welcomed and excited for the year ahead. Our current Year 4 students spent the day in Middle School, participating in sessions with their 2026 Year 5 teachers and Middle School staff.
Junior School Leaders in 2026
I am proud to announce our Year 4 Captains for 2026. Congratulations to all of our Year 3 students who applied for a leadership position. Your applications and interviews were impressive.
We look forward to seeing our Year 4 students grow into their leadership roles as they serve as role models and embrace the exciting opportunities ahead.
2026 Junior School Captains
- Junior School Captains: Samuel Phillips, Milla Kirkhope, James Andrianopoulos, Cecilia Federici
- Sambell House Captains: Sophie Clark, Nathaniel Regnier
- McHaffie House Captains: Cooper Mol, Mason O’Connor
- Bass House Captains: Harley Filsell, Julian Ryan
- Clarke House Captains: Nate O’Connor, Willa Boyce
- Performing Arts Captains: Hazel Werner, Casey Felstead
- Wellbeing Captains: Macie Oudshoorn, Benji Ellery
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Year 4 Graduation Assembly
Our Year 4 Graduation Assembly was held yesterday and celebrated our special Year 4 cohort. Students shared words of wisdom and offered wonderful advice to our Junior School students, which was lovely to hear.
Thank you, Year 4, for being such a happy, kind, and thoughtful group of students. Each of you will always remain a valued and cherished part of our Junior School community. As you move into Middle School, we look forward to continuing to watch you grow, develop, and thrive as you embrace new challenges.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Reindeer fun
This week, some of our Year 1 students were invited into the Trade Centre to create some lovely reindeer. They were later painted and bedazzled and taken home for Christmas.
Thank you to Mr Fourie and Mr Kellett for helping out!
A Beautiful Surprise from The Curry Club
Last Thursday, the lunch bell rang as the beautiful aroma of spices and herbs filled the Junior School building. Our teachers were treated to a delicious lunch generously provided by parents Bunty and Vanita from The Curry Club.
It felt like Christmas had arrived early! This thoughtful and generous gesture was greatly appreciated by our staff.
Thank you, Bunty and Vanita, for your kindness.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Merit Awards
Congratulations to the students in the following photo who were presented with their Merit Awards and recognised at Junior School Assembly.
