The Roar - Issue 16 Term 2 2025

Contents

Head of College - Mr Richard Ford

As we head into June and the weather starts to cool, activities for students seem to be doing the opposite and heating up. This is particularly true for our musicians who, on the back of a weekend representing the College at Big Band Blast, staged the College’s inaugural Musical Theatre Night on Wednesday evening. Students from both Junior School and Senior School performed numbers from a diverse array of musicals, both old and new. Families brought food to share, which saw everyone fully fed and all staff involved, particularly Ms Bate, are to be thanked for nurturing students’ love of singing and performing.

Next Thursday 12 June, Extension Music students are holding an HSC Music Extension Recital from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the Performing Arts Centre at the Senior School. The following Friday, 20 June, Music Showcase is shaping up to be an inspiring evening of music featuring students from Kindergarten to Year 12. This year’s concert offers a fresh, dynamic format, combining the best performances from across the College into a fast-paced and entertaining musical journey. Come along and enjoy a wide variety of styles, including musical theatre, jazz, concertos, film music, and chamber works, performed by our talented ensembles, choirs, and instrumental groups. The program will also feature solo and small ensemble performances from some of our most gifted student musicians. All are welcome, and tickets can be secured here for this unforgettable event.

Last weekend, it was terrific to see the College’s Equestrian Team in action at the Northwest Equestrian Expo in Coonabarabran. Each day of competition brings with it a diverse array of equestrian events that are graded to allow for participation by novices and experts alike. Students achieved many individual and team personal bests across the event, and more details about the multitude of accolades received appear later in this newsletter. Thank you to Mrs Dawes, our equestrian coaches and families for their support of students in the lead up to and across each day of the Expo.

Mr Richard Ford
Head of College

Chaplain

Last weekend, my family were dog-sitting two puppies. The jury is still out on whether or not the cuteness of a puppy actually compensates for the stress and destruction they bring! But in observing them, I was reminded of what probably most draws humans to pet dogs. A dog is always happy to see its owner; the owner of a dog doesn’t come home from work, or school, and wonder ‘will he be happy to see me today? Will his tail be wagging’? They don’t need to wonder, because it’s a given. A dog always welcomes its owner. Cats, of course, are different because they are indifferent. They may be excited to see an owner. Or, as the mood takes them, they might not even register that the owner is there. You can’t bank on the welcome of a cat the way you can bank on the excited welcome of a dog.

I’ve noticed that lots of people are uncertain about God’s attitude towards them. If you ask the question ‘how do you think God feels about you?’, they will hesitate. Mostly, because they assume that God’s opinion and acceptance of them is based purely on how good they have been – in the same way that Santa Claus might reward the nice and punish the naughty. I always love pointing out that the God they are describing isn’t the God of the Bible. This week at Senior School Chapel, we welcomed Ed Sowden, who shared Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son. In this story, a foolish and rebellious son leaves his father’s home, wastes all his inherited wealth, and lands on rock bottom. He approaches home, unsure of the welcome he’ll receive. But to his – and our surprise – the father welcomes him with open arms and a huge party. In other words, God’s attitude towards a person who has made even the worst mess of their lives is an attitude of forgiveness and grace, which is only possible through Jesus’ death for us. The story reminds us that as long as we are willing to follow the example of the prodigal son by turning from our own way, and turning towards Jesus as truly sorry children, then there is always a gracious, loving welcome for us!

Prayer Meeting – online

Knowing God loves and welcomes us as his children also leads us to pray. This term, we’re going to hold an online prayer meeting through a Teams link. This enables those who live outside of town to still join with other parents and staff to pray about matters relating to our College. This prayer meeting will be on Tuesday night, 17 June, 7:45 – 8:30 pm. If you would like to receive the link for the meeting, please email me at daniel.odell@scotsallsaints.nsw.edu.au.

Mr Daniel Odell
College Chaplain

Senior School

Drop-off Zone Road Condition

Thank you to Senior School parents for your patience with the condition of the road in the drop-off zone.

The considerable electrical infrastructure work that has occurred over the last nine months has contributed to the deterioration of the road in this area. The upcoming holiday period will see the road made good.


Music Notes

“From Spotlight to Showstopper: Our First Music Theatre Night Wows!”

We are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding success of our inaugural Musical Theatre Night, a spectacular evening that shone a spotlight on the incredible talent and dedication of our students from Year 2 to Year 12. Under the expert direction of Ms Rachel Bate, the night was a joyful celebration of music, movement, and storytelling, and a true testament to the vibrant creative spirit within our school.

Read the full article click HERE

Amadeus Academy Jazz Orchestra Shines at Big Band Blast

Last weekend, the Amadeus Academy Jazz Orchestra took centre stage at the 2025 Big Band Blast, held at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre (BMEC). The festival brought together student musicians from across New South Wales for a dynamic weekend of jazz workshops, masterclasses, and performances.

Our students immersed themselves in an exciting and intensive program that featured ensemble workshops, improvisation sessions, and masterclasses led by some of Australia’s top jazz educators and performers, including John Morrison, Dan Barnett, Jacki Cooper, and Eric Dunan. Sessions covered everything from sight-reading and scat singing to rhythm section skills and big band composition. Our students were inspired by performances form the Australian Admiral’s Own Navy Band and the Sydney Conservatorium Jazz Orchestra directed by David Theak.

On Saturday, the Jazz Orchestra participated in a dedicated performance workshop with Australian jazz vocal and trombone legend Mr Dan Barnett, who praised the group for their musical development and the nuance in their ensemble playing – a proud moment for students and staff alike.

The weekend culminated on Sunday in a showcase concert, where parents and members of the general public were treated to an impressive performance by the Jazz Orchestra. The ensemble presented a polished set of repertoire that clearly demonstrated their musical growth and cohesion developed over the course of the festival.

Participation in this event reflects the strength of the College’s comprehensive jazz education and development program, which spans the Junior School Big Band, Senior School Big Band, the Jazz Orchestra, Jazz Combo, and Funk Ensemble. These ensembles provide students across year levels with rich opportunities to develop performance skills, improvisation, ensemble playing, and a deep appreciation for jazz music.

The Amadeus Academy was proudly represented in both Saturday and Sunday programs, and our students made the most of every opportunity to learn and grow as performers. Supervising staff Ms Sargeant and Mrs Miller praised the students for their musicianship, enthusiasm, and professionalism throughout the event.

A particular highlight was the selection of Benjamin Lau, William Sargeant, and Owen Hooper for the prestigious All Stars Big Band, which performed in the finale concert on Sunday. Adding to the accolades, Benjamin Lau was also invited to perform with the Directors Big Band, the festival’s final act—an honour extended to only a handful of outstanding young musicians.

Congratulations to all members of the Amadeus Academy Jazz Orchestra for their outstanding participation and musical excellence. Your dedication and talent continue to make our school community proud.

Music Showcase

The annual K–12 Music Showcase Concert is returning in 2025 with an exciting new format that’s sure to delight and inspire. Mark your calendars for Friday 20 June, from 6:30–8:00 pm at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre Theatre, and get ready to experience an evening of music like never before.

This year’s Music Showcase will bring together the very best performances from across the College in a fast-paced, entertaining and emotionally engaging journey through the diverse world of music. From our youngest Kindergarten performers to our most seasoned senior musicians, the concert promises to celebrate the full spectrum of talent at our College.

Performing on the night will be:

  • All of Kindergarten and Year 1
  • Junior School ensembles, including the Concert Band, Orchestra, Suzuki Strings, Big Band, and Choir
  • Senior School ensembles, including the Choir, Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Big Band, Amadeus Academy ensembles, and Pipes and Drums

In addition to large ensembles, the evening will showcase solo and small ensemble performances, featuring some of our most outstanding and committed student musicians.

Tickets are on sale HERE


Year 12 English Studies Excursion – Exploring Australian Identity

On Friday 30 May, Year 12 English Studies students took part in an enriching excursion as part of their We Are Australian unit. The day included visits to several iconic Bathurst landmarks: the Bathurst Motor Racing Museum, Chifley Home Museum, the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, and the Bathurst Rail Museum.

Each stop provided valuable insights into the history, achievements, and cultural milestones that have shaped both the Bathurst region and Australia’s national identity. It was an enjoyable and educational day that deepened students’ understanding of what it means to be Australian.

Year 12 English Studies students took part in an enriching excursion as part of their We Are Australian unit. The day included visits to several iconic Bathurst landmarks: the Bathurst Motor Racing Museum, Chifley Home Museum, the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, and the Bathurst Rail Museum.

The Bathurst Motor Racing Museum was like stepping into a world where the cars were more than just cars and could almost tell stories — we left knowing more about engines, speed, and racing legends than we ever thought possible. Each car had different designs which were suitable and most fashionable in the era from which they were from.

We could imagine how technology had been developed as we saw real functional machines.

Harry and Shugo

Year 12 English Studies students took part in an enriching excursion as part of their We Are Australian unit. The day included visits to several iconic Bathurst landmarks: the Bathurst Motor Racing Museum, Chifley Home Museum, the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, and the Bathurst Rail Museum.

The train museum featured a massive electric train set that depicted multiple stations across the Central West, including Bathurst, Lithgow, and Blayney. There was also a lot of history behind the train station, as well as what Ben Chifley had to do with the railways.

Jack, Charlie and Will

Year 12 English Studies students took part in an enriching excursion as part of their We Are Australian unit. The day included visits to several iconic Bathurst landmarks: the Bathurst Motor Racing Museum, Chifley Home Museum, the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, and the Bathurst Rail Museum.

For our second museum, we went to Chifley House. We went into the educational side first and had a chat with the lady and watched a video. We then went next door to Chifley House, and we had a look through the house. We had a talk through the whole house and could see how our lives are different now. We saw all the items that Ben and Elizabeth had used when they lived there.

Teagan and Caitlyn

Year 12 English Studies students took part in an enriching excursion as part of their We Are Australian unit. The day included visits to several iconic Bathurst landmarks: the Bathurst Motor Racing Museum, Chifley Home Museum, the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, and the Bathurst Rail Museum.

Our last stop was the Dinosaur museum, where there were minerals and rocks which were very interesting. At the end, there were big dinosaur skeletons, especially the T Rex.

Campbell and Ethan


Leo to Study at National Arts School

Congratulations to Year 11 Visual Arts student, Leo Klonis, for his acceptance into the National Arts School Intensive HSC Studio Practice 2025.

Leo will study at the NAS in Sydney over two jam-packed weeks during the winter and spring holidays in the field of Sculpture. We congratulate Leo for his successful application amongst the very high calibre from across NSW and wish Leo all the best in this exciting opportunity.


Amazing Results at North West Equestrian Expo

The Scots All Saints Equestrian team has had the most amazing results so far at the North West Equestrian Expo in Coonabarabran.

To read the full story click HERE.

Junior School

Music Showcase

The annual K–12 Music Showcase Concert is returning in 2025 with an exciting new format that’s sure to delight and inspire. Mark your calendars for Friday 20 June, from 6:30–8:00 pm at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre Theatre, and get ready to experience an evening of music like never before.

This year’s Music Showcase will bring together the very best performances from across the College in a fast-paced, entertaining and emotionally engaging journey through the diverse world of music. From our youngest Kindergarten performers to our most seasoned senior musicians, the concert promises to celebrate the full spectrum of talent at our College.

Performing on the night will be:

  • All of Kindergarten and Year 1
  • Junior School ensembles, including the Concert Band, Orchestra, Suzuki Strings, Big Band, and Choir
  • Senior School ensembles, including the Choir, Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Big Band, Amadeus Academy ensembles, and Pipes and Drums

In addition to large ensembles, the evening will showcase solo and small ensemble performances, featuring some of our most outstanding and committed student musicians.

Tickets are on sale HERE

Celebrating Our Inaugural Junior School Music Leaders

This week, we were proud to introduce the very first Music Leaders at Scots All Saints College Junior School – a new role designed to recognise and celebrate leadership through music. Congratulations to Thomas Koffmann and Audrey White, who have been selected for their outstanding dedication, talent, and enthusiasm within our music program.

Both students are active participants in multiple ensembles across the Junior and Senior Schools, including choir, band, big band, orchestra, and small group performances. They consistently demonstrate musical excellence, teamwork, and a positive attitude, making them strong role models in our community.

As Music Leaders, Thomas and Audrey will help lead performances at school events, support concerts and rehearsals, and encourage others in both classroom and extracurricular music activities. We are excited to see the energy and leadership they will bring to our vibrant musical life.

Semester 1 Reports

Teachers are busy preparing their Semester 1 Reports. These will be sent home with the students on the last day of this term, Friday 27 June.

Mr Chris Jackman
Head of Junior School

Sports

Sports Draw

Last Thursday, we took 25 Senior School students to compete at the AICES Cross Country Championships in Sydney. It was fantastic to see everyone give it their all and test themselves against some of the best runners in the state.

Congratulations to the following students, who placed in the top 10 of their respective races. These students will now represent AICES at the CIS Cross Country Carnival at the Sydney Equestrian Centre on June 12.

Angus Argent-Smith, Juliet Erickson, Benjamin Lenehan, Lucy Tallentire and Emily Tallentire.

The College will have 16 students representing either HICES or AICES at the CIS Cross Country. This is an outstanding achievement, and well done to all competitors.

On Wednesday 4 June, Scots All Saints College proudly participated in the Netball NSW Schools’ Cup in Bathurst, with both Years 3/4 and Years 5/6 teams competing.

The day was filled with excitement and sportsmanship as our girls showcased their impressive skills against other schools from the local area.

Thank you to Mrs Van Uum and Mrs Wells for their efforts in coaching the teams on the day.

Mr Beau McClintock
Director of Sport and Activities

Book Buzz

Another busy week in the library across both campuses. In our 3-6 lessons, we explored the first of the Children’s Book Council of Australia shortlist picks for 2025. Anton Clifford-Motopi’s charming and funny debut novel, To and Fro, has already won some fans at the Junior School Campus, and we look forward to reading more in the weeks to come.

The Premier’s Reading Challenge continues, and it’s great to see so many keen readers in the library looking for the PRC stickers. Keep reading and recording those books and see Mrs Mackay if you have any questions.

Over on the Senior School Campus, Year 9 have also begun exploring the CBCA shortlist, looking at the books nominated this year for older readers. We began with Karleah Olsen’s debut coastal gothic novel, A Wreck of Seabirds. We started by judging the book by its cover before delving deeper into the opening pages and being drawn into the mystery of this book. We will continue our spotlighting of these picks in the weeks to come, with all the shortlisted books on the shelf available to borrow in the Cameron Library now.

The HICES Debating regular season also came to an end last week with final Round 3 debates for Year 8 and Year 11.

Our Year 8 team of Alexander Clements, Emmeline Jacobsen, Amelia Kirby and Benjamin Lenehan tackled a formidable opposition from St Mark’s Optic Orthodox College and were just bested, posting their first loss for the season. Later the same day, our Year 11 team of Jake Robinson, Luca Siemsen, Siddharth Pottapenjara and Lewis Moore were also unlucky in their contest with Richard Johnson Anglican School. We wait now to see if any of our teams have qualified for the next round.

While we wait for these results, it’s time to get excited about House Debating, which will begin next week on the senior campus. A series of lunchtime debates in the library over Weeks 6 and 7 will determine the Houses to contest the Junior and Senior finals, which will be held on the day of the House Arts Festival in Week 9.

The Roar Recommends

Junior Campus
Younger Readers

Slug Life by Moesha Kellaway

Older Readers

To and Fro by Anton Clifford-Motopi

Senior Campus
Junior Readers

The Dream Walker by Victoria Carless

Senior Readers

A Wreck of Seabirds by Karleah Olson

Happy Reading!

Mrs Angela Davis
Head of Library Services

Careers

Careers Colloquium 2025
Last week was a fabulous celebration of all things careers and community. With 73 parents and community members representing 44 different careers and industries, the hall became alive with conversations. It was fabulous to see the students so engaged in their fact-finding mission and exhibitors giving so freely of their time. The path to anyone’s career starts with a conversation and we are truly grateful to our College community for participating in the evening and being a small part in the process for our students.

Careers Colloquium Break Out Session on Engineering.

Careers Colloquium 2025

Careers Colloquium 2025

Careers Colloquium 2025

Careers Colloquium 2025

NSW Mining Dinner
This week, a group of students and parents attended the NSW Minerals Council Mining dinner, which was held at the Orange Ex-Services Club. This was a very informative evening, which started with a Mining Expo attended by all our local mining and geotech companies. UOW, UNSW and TAFE were present to answer any questions regarding the different training options. There were guest speakers and a fantastic panel showcasing the varied pathways you could choose to enter the Mining Industry. The evening was well organised and a great networking opportunity for our students.

Meet the University of Sydney – Orange
Organisation: University of Sydney
Location: The Hotel Canobolas
Date: 12 June 2025

Join USYD for an information evening to find out about the University of Sydney!

Learn about their Regional and Remote Entry Scheme and MySydney Scheme.

The session will also cover information about courses, admission requirements, entry schemes/pathways, fees, scholarships and accommodation, as well as the type of support available on campus. Uni students and alumni from Regional NSW will share stories, tips on moving away from home and advice about their journey to university and beyond.

You’ll also get the chance to speak with staff and students and have your questions answered.

Find out more and register

Applying to UTS: Early Entry Program Info Session
Organisation: University of Technology Sydney
Location: Online
Date: 11 June 2025

Thinking of applying to UTS via our Early Entry Program?

Learn how the UTS Early Entry Program can help you secure your place at UTS before final exams – even if you’re still exploring your options.

Find out more

Open Day 2025
Organisation: National Institute of Dramatic Arts
Location: NIDA Sydney Campus & Online
Date: 14 June 14 2025

Interested in studying at NIDA, or curious about what goes on behind the National Institute of Dramatic Arts? NIDA Open Day is the perfect opportunity to visit the campus and get a taste of the NIDA experience.

Whether you want to perform on stage or be behind the scenes, you can learn about all NIDA’s course offerings, meet alumni and current students, observe classroom activities, check out students’ creative work in costume, make-up, design and much more, as well as find answers to your questions, get tips for your application, chat to our expert teaching staff and join the audience for live student productions.

At Open Day, you’ll get a sense of what life at NIDA is really like, and where a future in the dramatic arts can take you.

Find out more and register

Mrs Helen Jones
Career Development Officer

Events & Announcements
The Greatest Show Showcase 2025 Tickets on Sale Now

Click HERE to purchase tickets.

 

Calendar

Friday 6 June
Student Free Day
Boarders Travel Day

Monday 9 June
King’s Birthday Public Holiday

Tuesday 10 June
Classes resume
Year 12 Police Youth Talk

Wednesday 11 June
Year 8 Police Youth Talk

Thursday 12 June
Year 12 HSC Music Recital 6:00 pm Performing Arts Centre
CIS Cross Country

The latest Term Dates can be found on our website HERE

SS: Senior School   JS: Junior School

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