A popular P&F support group at the College is New Women whose members are all mothers of boys currently at the College. New Women supports just three events each year – the Year 7 Mother Son Dinner, the New Women Evening and Back to Newington Day.

“Our group is able to direct where our funds raised go,” says New Women President, Helen Burton. With sons in both Year 8 and Year 10, Helen has a keen interest in being part of College life and ensuring that the funds that New Women raise benefit as many of the boys across each year level as possible.

“At high school it can be difficult to make close connections with other parents. Our group encourages interactions amongst mothers, and this is helpful on a range of levels,” said Helen.

The recent Year 7 Mother Son Dinner was organised by New Women for exactly that reason. Over 180 new mothers attended with their sons and were able to meet other mothers and experience the strong Newington community spirit.

From time to time New Women lend a hand with other activities too. For instance all mothers would be aware that by Term 2 the boys must have a new tracksuit with the new design. “We are asking mothers to donate good quality used tracksuits with the old design to benefit the boys of Tupou College, our brother school in Tonga,” said Helen.

“This isn’t a fundraising activity, but an activity which we consider important. It’s a great way to use this clothing which would otherwise be difficult to recycle”, she said.

If taking part in New Women appeals to you, then Helen encourages you to get in touch.

“We welcome all mothers from every year level. For our group to thrive we rely on mothers to join us,” she said.

“You can donate as little or as much time as you have – every bit counts.”

For more information email newwomen@newington.nsw.edu.au.