Term 3 Week 2 Newsletter

Leadership Insights

Navigating Change Together: Discovering New Possibilities and Ways of Seeing

Change is one of the few constants in life. Whether it’s shifting roles, adapting to new routines, facing unexpected events, or reimagining how we teach, lead, or relate to one another — change can be challenging. It often stirs uncertainty, disrupts comfort zones, and invites us into the unfamiliar. But change also offers a profound opportunity: to grow, to rediscover, and to see the world — and each other — through new eyes.

At Prescott in 2025, we are experiencing change in many forms. Some are visible — new spaces, facility upgrades, and improvements that reflect our continued commitment to quality learning environments. While we are not a fiscally wealthy school, we are incredibly rich in the diversity, talent, and generosity of our students, staff, and families. These are the true treasures of our community, and they provide the foundation upon which we build and grow.

As we embrace physical changes, we are equally focused on the inner development of our community. Our commitment to nurturing each individual — spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually — remains at the heart of who we are. Our three pillars of Integrity, Respect, and Joy, are not just guiding words, but practical foundations that support us in every step of our collective and personal evolution.

In times of transition, we are called not to walk alone but to support each other with patience, grace, and courage. The strength of a community lies in its ability to hold space for both vulnerability and hope. When we walk alongside one another — listening deeply, encouraging creativity, and staying open to new perspectives — change becomes not a burden, but a shared journey toward renewal.

The Bible reminds us of this truth in Romans 12:2:

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

This passage challenges us to embrace transformation — not by clinging to what was, but by opening our minds and hearts to what could be. Transformation, after all, is not merely about the external but about a deep, internal renewal. As our thinking is renewed, so too are our relationships, our work, and our sense of purpose.

Let us choose to see change not as a threat, but as an invitation — to reimagine how we live, serve, and grow together. Let us be courageous in our openness, kind in our support, and hopeful in our vision. As we lean into change, may we discover not only new ways of doing, but new ways of seeing — each other, our world, and the God who makes all things new.

Mr Ian Hamilton Deputy Principal

Prescott News

Welcome to Term 3

There have been a lot of improvements happening around the school, and over the holiday break - this happened!  An extension to the library, where students will have another outdoor learning area.

Showcase of the Arts

Thursday 26th June - A Night to Remember: Celebrating Talent at Our Showcase Evening

On the last week of Term 2, our school came alive with the sound of music, energy, and creativity as we hosted our much-anticipated Showcase Evening—a celebration of the incredible talents of our students. From soulful soloists to dynamic ensembles, the evening was a vibrant display of hard work, passion, and sheer talent.

The stage was graced with a wide variety of musical performances, highlighting the versatility and dedication of our students. Whether it was classical piano pieces, vocal duets, original compositions, or cultural dancing, each act was met with rapturous applause from an enthusiastic audience. It was truly a testament to the diverse and thriving musical life of our school.

But behind the scenes of this magical night lay weeks of preparation. Our students committed countless hours to rehearsals, perfecting their performances and supporting one another throughout the process. Staff and music department members worked tirelessly on everything from stage lighting and sound checks to planning the running order and ensuring each performance was show-ready.

The sense of community and collaboration was felt not only on stage but throughout the Creative Arts Centre. Parents, carers, staff, family members and friends gathered to celebrate the efforts and achievements of our performers, creating an atmosphere that was both supportive and electric.

Events like these don’t happen overnight. They are the result of dedication, teamwork, and a shared love of the arts. The Showcase Evening served as a brilliant reminder of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity—and it’s safe to say that every performer made us proud.

A huge thank you to all the staff and students involved in bringing the evening to life. We can’t wait to see what our talented students do next.

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ICAS Testing

Within our school community there are students who shine brightly, displaying exemplary dedication and academic talent. They deserve to be recognised and this year we are giving them the opportunity to showcase and celebrate their talents in the world-renowned ICAS competition.

What is ICAS?  

ICAS is an online academic competition that gives students the opportunity to challenge their higher order thinking and problem-solving skills in English, Mathematics, Science and Digital Technologies.

ICAS results are in-depth and meaningful, and ICAS evaluates student performance against other competition entrants across the state and nation. The data reveals student strengths and weaknesses and can help you recognise and support your child's academic journey.    

Learn more about ICAS here by clicking here.

ICAS results and certificate
Every student who participates is celebrated and recognised with a printed certificate in each subject area, and an online results report to track development each year. Top performers are eligible for one of the highly coveted ICAS medals.

Your child’s ICAS certificates will show their results and the login details. Use these links to enter Results Portal and TAP ID and Pin.

How to participate in ICAS  

If you wish for your child to participate in ICAS this year, please go to the Parent Portal to register for your chosen subjects.

You can do this in one of two ways:

1. Direct login link – faster!

Use this link to log directly into the shop and start registering:

1. Log in using the PPS code

Visit our shop link and use our PPS code (OUB717) to log in:

Registration for all subject areas closes on Monday 28 July at 11:59pm.

This year, our students can elect to sit the following assessments:

Please note, we cannot facilitate refunds or make alterations as all money is paid directly to ICAS Assessments.

Read the terms and conditions here.

Privacy collection statement:
The following information is a privacy notification about how your child’s data is kept private and secure.

ICAS Assessment is owned by Janison Solutions Pty Ltd (We, Us, Our).

To deliver assessment products, Janison will require your child’s School to obtain your consent to provide Janison with certain personal information of students. Janison will collect, store, use, disclose and otherwise deal with such personal information in accordance with its privacy policy (below). We are aware of our responsibility to protect personal information related to children and students from being disclosed when we deliver an ICAS Assessments product. Unless you, as the child’s legal guardian consents, we will not:

• collect any personal information or data of children other than the information we need for the successful completion of an assessment, test, or exam.
• transfer any personal information we obtain from a child in the delivery of assessments and tests to any jurisdiction outside of Australia.
• share any personal information relating to children with any third parties (except for those third parties necessary for us to carry out our Services or provide our Products e.g., medal engraving).
• use any personal information or data relating to children for marketing purposes.

You can view our full privacy policy by clicking this link

We may retain personal information and data relevant to a child for their future purposes or for research purposes by Janison for the duration of the school life cycle of the child. However, if you or your child at any time wish to have their personal information or data removed from our systems, they or you may opt out by simply contacting our Privacy Officer at privacy@janison.com or by contacting icasassessments@janison.com.

We are proud to be offering ICAS to our students this year and encourage you to consider entering your child. Please do not hesitate to contact the school office if you have any questions.  

Kind regards,

Mrs Kaarin Mattner

Academic Competitions Coordinator

Employment Opportunity

Body Image

Guest Speaker Stephanie Ng from BodyBanter

Year 11s in the Stage 1 subject, Health and Wellbeing, are currently completing an assignment related to adolescents and body image issues.

in Term 2, Week 8, Stephanie Ng from BodyBanter (a not-for-profit organisation in Hong Kong) visited our class via a Zoom call. Stephanie is the director of BodyBanter. She started this organisation when she was studying at University to educate adolescents and bring about positive change. Stephanie discussed many topics with our Year 11s, including what it means to feel "comfortable" in our own bodies, and how we can be more present with our thoughts before they take over.

Ms Renee Chen

Here are some reflections from our students:
I learned how body image can deeply affect mental health and self-esteem. It was interesting to see how both boys and girls are pressured by social media in different ways. It inspired me to be more mindful about how I speak about bodies — mine and others. - Snehal

I learned that there are organisations spreading awareness concerning body image. I found it interesting that a lot of people go through a stage when they are concerned about their body image. It gave me a sense of relief that this topic is not looked down upon and there are individuals out there who care about this topic. - Sajad

Chaplain's Corner

Have you ever needed someone to help you with something really important? 

I remember when I was a uni student living in the girls' dormitory at Avondale University. One evening, I twisted my ankle really badly. At first, I thought it was nothing — I figured a good rest would fix it. But during the night, I woke up in excruciating pain. I couldn’t walk at all. I was in desperate need of Panadol… but I had none, and it was 3am!

At first I wasn’t sure what to do, but then I decided to look online and see who had a green dot on their Facebook profile, which symbolised they were online. One of my friends, Ketannah, was still awake. I messaged her and asked her if she could come to my rescue and find me Panadol. She didn’t have any, but she raced around the dorm and found people awake who were happy to give her Panadol, then she walked to my dorm and delivered me the painkillers! I was so relieved and so thankful. Still to this day, I am so blessed even at the thought of her kindness. 

In the Bible, Luke 7 tells us about a Roman Centurion who needed help. He had a servant who was really sick. He came to Jesus to ask Him to heal his servant. Yet when he came before Jesus he said, “Lord I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. Just say the word and my servant will be healed.”

Yes, the Centurion simply believed that Jesus could heal his servant, but his faith was deeper than that. He believed that Jesus could heal him not by touch, but by simply speaking a word. This amazed Jesus. He looked around at those with Him and said, “I have not found such great faith even in Israel.” 

The Centurion wasn’t a Jew, yet he trusted in Jesus. The Centurion was a man of authority. If he, being a commanding officer could speak and have his commands actioned, how much more could the Son of God do? He believed Jesus was One of true authority and compassion. The centurion had deep faith. He didn’t demand signs. He simply trusted who Jesus was.

We may not always see the outcome immediately, but we can believe that Jesus hears, cares, and acts with authority and love. He is the friend who drops everything to help you in time of need. 

My friend Ketannah came to my rescue when I needed help. Jesus also is always ready to respond with compassion. He sees our need, He hears our cry, and He cares deeply.

Do you believe that Jesus is the kind of friend who is ready to help you and bring comfort when you're hurting?

This term in chapel, we’re exploring the theme of who and what we can truly believe in. Over and over, Jesus has proved that He is always worthy of our trust — not only because of what He can do, but because of who He is.

Key Dates to Note

ICAS Testing 

Monday 4th August - Friday 29th August

DIGITAL TECH  •  ENGLISH  •  SCIENCE • MATHEMATICS
See article above for more information on how to register your child.

Pupil Free Day

Student Services and Wellbeing

Join Homework Club – Tuesdays and Thursdays After School!

Homework Club is a great opportunity for students to stay on top of their studies in a
supportive and focused environment. Running every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 4:30
PM, in the Library, the club offers a quiet space with access to teachers and resources to help
with assignments, revision, and time management. It’s also a great chance to build good study
habits and reduce stress by getting homework done early in the week. All students are
welcome—just let Mrs Nelson (Tuesday) or Mr Joseph (Thursday) know you are attending.

Uniform Shop

Uniform Matters: Dress the Part Every Day

The Uniform Shop is open each Wednesday from 12:30pm - 4:00pm.

Please contact Darlene Jaekel on 0490 880 023 if you'd like to arrange payment over the phone.

Darlene Jaekel Uniform Shop Coordinator