Week 9B / 1A
The Oxley Update - Term 2, Week 9
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The Oxley Update - Term 2, Week 9
Key Dates for the Week Ahead
College News
Student Device Policy Review - BYOD
Following the introduction of a new Mobile Device Policy for students at the start of 2025, driven by our principle of ‘Care for the Whole Child’ and the aim of delaying students having smartphones, I met with Year 4 parents earlier this term about the consistency of the new policy with the current BYOD model, which commences in Year 5.
At that stage, I said that we would review BYOD for Year 5 2026, and get back to Year 4 parents/carers by the end of this term about any changes to the Student Device Policy for next year, in order to provide time for planning.
Following the commencement of our new IT Manager at the start of this term, Mr Chris Moerkerken, the College has conducted a thorough and broad review of the Student Device Policy, including the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) model. This is the first stage of our 2025-2027 Strategic Priority (4.1): Future Proof Our Student Device Policy.
Early next term, we will be communicating our preliminary decisions about a new Student Device Policy and inviting feedback on the proposed changes.
What will this mean for families planning to purchase a device for their child(ren) for 2026?
It means that parents/carers should not purchase a new device now for their child(ren) for 2026. This includes current Year 4 parents/carers. Early next term families will receive communication about our plans for 2026 with regard to student devices.
Mark Case
Deputy Head of College
Celebrating a Remarkable Term 2
As Term 2 draws to a close, it’s a wonderful moment to reflect on the many achievements and milestones we’ve reached together as a community.
One of the most exciting developments this term has been the completion of our brand-new Junior School playground. This vibrant and engaging space is already bringing joy to our youngest learners and will continue to support their growth and wellbeing for years to come.
We are also thrilled to announce the completion of six new classrooms - modern, flexible learning environments that will enhance the educational experience for our students. In addition, we are on the verge of beginning redevelopment on Hoskins Hall, a significant new facility that will further enrich our campus and community life.
These projects have only been possible thanks to the incredible generosity of our community. Through the Foundation Building Fund, the Oxley College Foundation has contributed an extraordinary $500,000 towards the development of the new classrooms and the commencement of Hoskins Hall. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all parents and community members who have supported these initiatives - your commitment makes a lasting difference.
Looking ahead, we are excited to foreshadow the official opening of the new buildings and the launch of our next 5-Year Campus Plan on Friday 12 September. This will be a special event to which the entire community will be invited, and we look forward to sharing our vision for the future with you.
As we head into the break, I wish all families a restful and refreshing holiday. If you are travelling, may your journeys be safe and enjoyable. We look forward to welcoming everyone back, re-energised and ready for a big second half of the year.
Finally, to our Year 12 students—our thoughts are with you as you prepare for your Trial HSC exams over the break. We wish you focus, strength, and every success.
Scott Bedingfield
Head of College
Trips and Adventures
Europe Educational Tour - January 2026
We are partnering with WorldStrides, an internationally accredited student travel company, to deliver this extraordinary opportunity for Oxley students. The draft itinerary is currently under development and may evolve as we finalise a school partnership in either France or Germany.
Don't miss out - this is the final chance for your child to be part of Oxley's unforgettable Europe trip! We are partnering with WorldStrides, an internationally accredited student travel company, to deliver this extraordinary opportunity for Oxley students. The draft itinerary is currently under development and may evolve as we finalise a school partnership in either France or Germany.
Details
Departure Date: Friday 9 January 2026
Return Date: Friday 23 January 2026 (tbc depending on flight schedule)
Cost: $9900 (inclusive of tour, most meals, transfers and travel insurance) Note: this price does not include visas, vaccinations, tips or any further additional expenses.
Destinations: 14-day journey through the UK, France, and Germany, departing Friday 9 January 2026.
Historical Focus: Visits to World War I & II sites including Fromelles, Villers-Bretonneux, Somme, Dachau, and the Berlin Wall.
Cultural Highlights: Includes the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, British Museum, West End theatre, and Seine River cruise.
Educational Enrichment: Guided tours in London, Paris, Munich, and Berlin, plus scavenger hunts and museum visits.
Round Square Connection: A visit to a partner school in France or Germany as part of the Round Square global network.
Travel & Comfort: Eurostar train, internal flights, and upgraded accommodation throughout, with all major meals included.
Please note that your child’s spot on the trip will only be confirmed once the deposit is paid, if required. Some important points to keep in mind:
School fees must be up to date for your child to participate in a trip.
All payments, including deposits, are non-refundable.
Due to high demand, if instalments are not paid on time, your child’s place may be forfeited, and we will be unable to issue a refund.
Payment Schedule:
Deposit: $800 (due now)
Second Instalment: $4550 (due Friday 12 September)
Final Payment: $4550 (due Friday 7 November)
** There is a limit of 40 students for this trip. In order to make this trip viable, a minimum of 30 students is required. Costs may rise if this minimum number is not achieved**
Once your place on the trip is confirmed, please give permission through App or Portal. Once you have given permission online, all the Trip information such as this letter will move from the To Do Tab to the Events Tab on the App.
Discover Europe: A Transformative Journey for Years 9–12 – Oxley College
If you have any questions, please contact Christophe Gauchat, Head of Co-Curricular P-12.
Payments Due for Trips - Snowy Mountains, Thailand & Nepal
Instalment payments for the above trips are due. Please see below for more details and payment links.
Snow Mountains Trip:
The final instalment of $300 is due by Monday 21 July. Payment can be made via the following link: https://payit.nelnet.net/form/Vgig69Aq
Thailand Trip:
The final instalment for the Thailand Trip of$1,700 is due by Monday 21 July. Payment can be made via the following link: https://payit.nelnet.net/form/UNLGhqap
Nepal Trip:
The final instalment for the Nepal Trip of $2,882.50 is due on the Monday 21 July. Payment can be made via the following link: https://payit.nelnet.net/form/CgRm4Sk4
Nepal Pre-Trip Meeting
We will be holding an information evening for students and parents on Monday 4 August at 5.30pm. Please note the updated location: Orchestra Room.
During this session, representatives from World Horizons will present the final trip details, distribute travel documents, review required gear, and address any remaining questions.
Whole School News
Tree Planting & Sausage Sizzle
THIS FRIDAY - NO ORDER REQUIRED
The traditional Foundation Day Tree Planting was postponed from Foundation Day due to the terrible weather we experienced that day.
Tree Planting for Foundation Day 2025 will now take place this Friday 27 June. The tree planting marks a special milestone for our Year 12 cohort as the first of the 'farewell' activities, and the whole College from Pre-K to Year 12 will be in attendance on Bray Fields.
Following the Tree Planting, a sausage sizzle will be available for all students - no orders required. Gluten Free and Vegan options will be provided. Because of this, the canteen will be running a limited menu on Friday and there will be no over the counter sales at lunchtime.
Welcoming the World to Oxley – Host a Japanese Student This August!
We’re thrilled to announce a wonderful cultural exchange opportunity at Oxley! From Thursday 31 July to Monday 18 August 2025, a group of Japanese students will be joining us for a study tour - and we’re inviting Oxley families to be part of this enriching experience by hosting one or two students in their homes.
All visiting students are girls aged 14–17 and will be attending Oxley each day. They’ll spend part of their time in English lessons and the rest shadowing their Oxley buddy in regular classes. It’s a fantastic way for your child to build international friendships, gain cultural insights, and share their everyday life with someone from across the globe.
What’s involved?
Host 1–2 students in your home (single homestay)
Provide three meals a day
Receive $70 per student per night as a thank you
Enjoy a unique cultural experience for your whole family!
All students speak English and are here to improve their language skills in a supportive, friendly environment. If you’re interested in hosting or would like more information, please contact Stacey Taylor at stacey.taylor@oxley.nsw.edu.au.
Let’s make this a memorable visit for our guests—and a rewarding experience for our Oxley community!
Join our Canteen Team!
Looking for a way to get more involved in College life – or pick up a few casual hours during the school day? We’re on the lookout for Canteen Team members – both paid casual staff and volunteers – to join our friendly, fast-paced team! Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, carer, alumni or friend of the College, if you’ve got a warm smile and enjoy working as part of a team, we’d love to hear from you.
Paid and volunteer positions available
School hours only – no late nights or weekends
Perfect for someone already connected to our Oxley community
It’s a great way to:
Stay connected to the school
Work in a welcoming, supportive environment
Help fuel happy, healthy students – one toastie at a time
Interested? Get in touch via employment@oxley.nsw.edu.au – we’d love to welcome you aboard.
Help us serve more than food – help us serve up community, connection and care.
Oxley Shop Holiday Opening Hours
WHEN IS THE OXLEY SHOP OPEN THESE HOLIDAYS?
Week 1:
The Oxley Shop will be closed for stocktake on Tuesday 1 July & Wednesday 2 July. It will reopen on Thursday 3 July.
Week 2:
The Oxley Shop will be closed. Orders can still be placed online.
Week 3:
Open normal hours (Tuesday - Thursday 8.30am - 4.00pm)
Senior School News
Year 12 Holiday Workshop Schedule
We are encouraging all Year 12 students to have a complete break for the first week to rest and recuperate ready for the 18-week push to the end of the HSC examinations. In the second week of the holidays, the Year 12 Study Centre will be open, and in the third week there will be scheduled workshops as outlined in the link below.
Year 10 Subject Selections
Year 10 are well into the process of Subject Selections for their HSC Preliminary courses in Year 10. Their initial preferences have been submitted and will guide the formation of the lines for Year 11 2026. Next term, the lines will be released and students will have to choose from within those lines. Parents (via MSTeams) and students will then meet with Heads of House and members of the Executive of Senior Leadership Team in Week 3 to discuss and finalise selections.
Senior School Athletics Carnival
On Wednesday 23 July, is the Senior School Athletics carnival. Details are in the Senior School Sport section of this Update and all students are expected to attend and to involve themselves as much as possible in support of their House. A reminder that attendance at all Inter-House carnivals is a criteria for House Colours.
Uniform Expectations
Maintaining uniform expectations helps in fostering a sense of belonging and pride within the student body. A consistent dress code helps to minimise distractions, promote equality, and instil a sense of discipline. It ensures that students represent the school positively both within and outside the campus, reinforcing the values and standards that Oxley has upheld for many years. Parents' support in ensuring their children adhere to the uniform guidelines is invaluable in sustaining this tradition. A quick reminder of a few areas for parents and students to be aware of as we approach the break.
Hair length and colour. Students should have no radical change of hair length or colour. Recently students have arrived after holidays with drastically changed hair colour and haircuts that do not fall within our guidelines published in the College Diary. This means that the first conversation we have with students at the start of the semester is a negative one. Please can you support us, by ensuring that any changes to hairstyles over the holiday are such that they are within guidelines by Day 1 of Term 3. One trend that does not meet guidelines is a fade that starts from shaved. A Grade 4 haircut for the shortest part of the hair is an appropriate starting length.
Make-up for girls From a wellbeing perspective, I have no issue with girls using a small amount of concealer; however, school is not a fashion parade and the limits of what is uniform for girls is being pushed recently, particularly in the following areas that students should not be using:
Mascara or eye liner
Lipstick
Excessive fake tan
Three Rules for Success in Life
To finish on a positive note, Canadian actor Nathan Fillion recently spoke at a graduation event and said his three rules for success for in life are:
Be Lucky – Make your own luck by showing up, working hard, being kind and saying yes to things that scare you a little and by showing resilience when you face setbacks.
Show Gratitude – Lucky people notice when things go right, they say thank you not just out loud, but in how they carry themselves, how they make their choices and how they meet their challenges.
Pretend to be bold – Being bold is hard, you can be nervous which is entirely natural, but you can pretend to be bold.
His first two points reflect much of the College’s Values and Wellbeing framework, while the third can assist with the daily challenges of being a teenager or a parent.
Junior School News
Year 6 - Term 3 Novel Study
HOLIDAY READING FOR YEAR 6
Year 6 students have recently been issued a novel that will form the basis of our Term 3 literature study. Your child has a copy of either The Happiest Refugee by Anh Do or City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau. We hope that your child could read at least one quarter of their novel by the end of the upcoming holidays. Over the next two terms all students will read both texts. Both books are available as audio books through Audible. The Happiest Refugee is also available on BorrowBox – the library app.
As students mature and begin to read a wider range of material, some concepts raised can be challenging. In the lead up to Term 3, we encourage students to discuss content and themes of the novels with their parents. The texts will then be explored in depth during our Term 3 literature lessons. Students will have the opportunity to raise any questions or queries with their teacher.
Co-Curricular Clubs - Term 3
Junior School Co-Curricular Clubs will run from Week 2 Term 3, through to Week 9 of Term 3, Tuesday 29 July - Thursday 18 September, 8 weeks. Registrations will open Tuesday 22 July. Further information will be communicated to parents prior to Term 3.
Last Call for Food Donations
This week is the last opportunity to donate to the Red Cross and Dhungung Share Program. This initiative supports local Aboriginal families in the Southern Highlands. Please donate items such as cans of fruit, instant rice packs, pasta packs, jars of pasta sauces, tuna, baked beans, boxes of cereal etc. All donations can be dropped off to the Junior School Office.
School Holidays Saturday Sport Fixture Availability
PLEASE ADVISE YOUR CHILD'S AVAILABILITY!
Please see below the Saturday sport schedule for the upcoming school holidays. If your child is unavailable for any of the listed matches, please use the link to let us know. This information is important to help us finalise team numbers as soon as possible.
Hockey:
Saturday 28 June – Matches scheduled.
Saturday 5 July – No matches scheduled.
Saturday 12 July – No matches scheduled.
Saturday 19 July – No matches scheduled.
Netball:
Saturday 28 June – Matches scheduled.
Saturday 5 July – No matches scheduled.
Saturday 12 July – No matches scheduled.
Saturday 19 July – No matches scheduled.
Football:
Saturday 28 June – Matches scheduled.
Saturday 5 July – Matches scheduled.
Saturday 12 July – No matches scheduled.
Saturday 19 July – Matches scheduled.
Sport News
Sports Draw
SATURDAY 23 AUGUST
Senior School Sport
Senior School Athletics Carnival
The Senior School Athletics Carnival is taking place at Oxley College on Wednesday 23rd July (Week 1, Term 3). The program and further information can be found on Oxley Connect via the link below.
Oxley College Athletics Carnival Information Program 2025
The 3000m and Triple Jump events will be run separately to the rest of the events (details in program). These events will be capped, and students will be nominated by their Head of House to participate. If your child is interested in participating in these events, they should speak directly to their Head of House.
Note – there will be no sport training for Senior School teams on this day.
The P&F will be running a BBQ on this day. Please place your order via the link below:
Term 3 - Return to Training
Training will resume for all Senior School sport teams in Week 1 of Term 3 (other than Wednesday due to Athletics Carnival).Round 8 of the ISA season takes place on Saturday, 26th July.
Southern Highlands Holiday Netball Clinic
An exciting netball clinic with elite player Paige Hadley will be held at Eridge Park on Wednesday 9 July, from 9.00am to 12.00pm. The cost of the clinic is $95. The clinic is open to players aged 7–15 years and is a great opportunity to develop skills and enjoy a fun morning of netball. Register below.
Junior School Sport
Junior School Athletics Carnival
The Junior School Athletics Carnival will take place on Thursday 24 July at Oxley College, involving all students from Kindergarten to Year 6. The day focuses on participation, House spirit, and personal achievement, with students taking part in a range of athletics events.Parents and families are warmly invited to attend and share in the fun. Click the link below for full event details and logistics.
Southern Highlands Holiday Netball Clinic
An exciting netball clinic with elite player Paige Hadley will be held at Eridge Park on Wednesday 9 July, from 9.00am to 12.00pm. The cost of the clinic is $95. The clinic is open to players aged 7–15 years and is a great opportunity to develop skills and enjoy a fun morning of netball. Register below.
Term 3 K-1 Sport Foundations Program
We’ve had a fantastic response to our Term 3 K–1 Sport Foundations program, which will focus on netball and hockey skills during Wednesday afternoon sessions.The Sports Department will be in touch with families later this week to confirm registrations and provide further program details.Please note that the program will commence in Week 2 of Term 3.
Term 3 - Return to Sports Training
Training for all Junior School sport teams will resume in Week 1 of Term 3, except for the K–1 Sport Foundations program, which will begin in Week 2.A friendly reminder that Athletics Training sessions for students previously registered in the Wednesday morning program have now concluded. Training will resume in Week 2 of Term 3 for students who qualify for the IPSHA Athletics Carnival, based on results from the upcoming school carnival.
Junior School Athletics Training
This week marks the final Athletics Training session for students registered in the Wednesday morning program. Training will resume in Week 2 of Term 3 for students who qualify for the IPSHA Athletics Carnival, based on results from the upcoming school carnival.
Additional Sports
Optional Equestrian Dressage Training Day
Parbery Performance Horses - Sunday 10 August
Members of the Oxley Equestrian Team are invited to participate in a training day run with Mel Parbery at Parbery Performance Horses. This is a fabulous opportunity for students to develop their dressage skills with experienced coach and rider Mel Parbery. You can choose to complete a shared (2 riders per group, 1 hour session) or a private session (40-minute sessions). Please indicate on your registration if there is a certain dressage test or area/skill your child would like to work on in their session.
Groupings with be ability based and formed using the information provided in the below registration link. You will then receive information regarding direct payment to Parbery Performance Horses and two waivers to complete.
Please register here – Dressage Training Day Registration Link (Please note responses will close Sunday 20 July to provide sufficient time for groupings and administration to be completed)
Details
Date: Sunday 10 August
Time: Dependent on Booking, Students are welcome to stay and watch each other and enjoy a picnic (BYO).
Venue: Parbery Performance Horses - 336 Kareela Road, Penrose NSW 2579 Australia
Mode of Transport: Riders and their horses are to be transported to/from the venue by a parent/carer who is expected to stay on site.
Uniform and Equipment requirements: Oxley Sports Top and Jacket, Jodhpurs/Jeans, Leather riding boots and an EA Approved Helmet.
Please ensure your child’s EA membership is up to date for insurance purposes.
Accompanying staff: Georgie Ridehalgh
Cost: $60 + GST (Shared Session), $90 + GST (Private Session) - (Payment directly to Parbery Performance Horses)
Please bring a picnic for your child/ren and yourself to enjoy together with the team at this scenic location.
Should you require assistance please contact georgie.ridehalgh@oxley.nsw.edu.au. Please ensure that your child’s medical information is up to date. This can be amended through the Oxley Portal, not the App.
Yours sincerely,
Georgie Ridehalgh
Equestrian Coordinator & Junior School Teacher
Music News
Important Information Regarding Private Music Lessons
From Scott Bedingfield, Head of College
Dear Parents and Carers
I am writing to inform you of an important update regarding the provision of peripatetic tutoring at the College, commencing from the beginning of Term 3.
Following a comprehensive review of our current arrangements and considering recent legal reforms, the College will be implementing a new framework for engaging peripatetic tutors. This change is driven by amendments to the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth), which came into effect in August 2024. These amendments introduced a new definition of employment and a revised method for determining whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor.
Under the updated legislation, the classification of a worker now depends on the “whole of relationship” test, which considers the practical reality and true nature of the working relationship—not just the terms of the contract. This means that even where a tutor has previously operated as an independent contractor, the College must now assess whether the nature of their engagement aligns with the new legal criteria. In many cases, this assessment indicates that tutors should be formally contracted to the College to ensure compliance with the law and to safeguard both the tutors’ and the College’s legal obligations.
As part of this new arrangement, peripatetic tutors will also be required to hire the College’s facilities through a formal agreement. This step ensures that all tutoring activities conducted on campus are appropriately covered by our insurance, risk management, and safeguarding policies. It also provides a clear framework for the use of school resources and reinforces our commitment to maintaining a safe and structured learning environment for all students.
The facility hire fee is in line with all other hire arrangements within the College, where external contractors hire our facilities. This contributes to the cost of electricity, photocopying, and cleaning and general wear and tear on college infrastructure. Our peripatetic tutors are also assisted by the College with administrative support about students requesting lessons, classroom allocation and access to our systems. As peripatetic tutoring is an optional service and not part of the core curriculum offered to all students, it is appropriate that these operational costs are covered by those accessing the service. This approach ensures fairness and sustainability in how we manage and support these valuable learning opportunities. I expect this fee will begin from the start of Term 4, 2025.
While these changes will not alter the nature of the tutoring sessions themselves, they do introduce a new administrative process that may take some time to finalise. Consequently, there may be a short delay in the commencement of some tutoring sessions at the start of Term 3.
We understand the value these sessions provide to our students and are working diligently to ensure a smooth transition. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we implement these changes to strengthen our operational and legal frameworks.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the College.
Yours sincerely,
Scott Bedingfield
Head of College
Stage 1 Singing Showcase - Parents Welcome!
THURSDAY 26 JUNE, 9.15AM - ORCHESTRA ROOM
Join us for a joyful morning as all of Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 perform a selection of fun songs by Peter Combe that they’ve been learning throughout Semester 1.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Junior Orchestra Cancelled
There will be no Junior Orchestra rehearsal this Friday morning.
Parents' & Friends' News
Last Chance - Sequins & Sparkle Mums' Disco
For all the Mums out there… get ready to sparkle! Our inaugural Mum's Disco is this Saturday evening and it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable evening of bubbles, beats, and boogie. Tickets are closing soon, so grab yours before it’s too late. Sneakers and sequins encouraged—we can’t wait to see you on the dancefloor!
Time to get your groove on….
You’re invited to the inaugural P&F Mums’ Disco — a night of sequins, sneakers and serious fun.
Saturday 26th July
6–10pm in the PCC
Bubbles on arrival
Grazing tables
Cash bar and non-stop tunes.
Tickets $35 — dust off your dancing shoes and grab your friends for a night to remember .
https://www.trybooking.com/DCOUI
The P&F Sausage Sizzle at the Junior & Senior School Athletics Carnival
Term 3 is off and running (literally) with our Athletics Carnivals in the first few days. Don’t forget to get your sausage sizzle order in as soon as possible. We’re also on the lookout for some helping hands with the BBQ's—if you’re free, we’d love your support.
On Reflection - The Week That Was
Junior School Goalkeeper Development Session
Several of our Junior School students had the exciting opportunity to take part in specialised goalkeeping sessions with expert coach Dan McHughs over the past few weeks. A big thank you to Dan for generously sharing his time and expertise to support the development of our young goalkeepers!
Events at Oxley
Centre for Ethics - David Hunt - Thursday 14 August
Don't miss this wonderful evening with Centre for Ethics Guest Speaker David Hunt. Book via the link below.
Centre for Ethics - From Surviving to Thriving
WEDNESDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2025
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