Dear Parents and Guardians,

I hope you and your boys are well rested after the summer break and ready for Term 1 to begin. The catastrophic bush fires have impacted on so many lives and the College has started discussions about how to make a meaningful contribution to helping people rebuild their properties and lives, as well as our wildlife. We will continue these discussions with the boys.

My gratitude to our grounds staff who have had to think smart and act fast to keep our grounds maintained amid water restrictions and severe heat. Our building and maintenance teams have also been extraordinarily busy over the summer break completing many projects that will enhance the Newington College campus. I would like to thank them, and to express my gratitude to the staff who contributed to, and participated in, many camps, the overseas music tour and other activities over the break.

We start 2020 by welcoming to Newington College 12 new staff members and 8 staff members who return after long service leave, maternity leave or an overseas exchange.

Our Year 7 2020 cohort have already started their school year by attending their orientation camp at Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation in Narrabeen this week.

I look forward to welcoming all boys back to the College on Tuesday 28 January when Term 1 starts with our Administration Day. This is compulsory for all boys. Year 7 have a full-day orientation program, and Years 8-12 have Meet the Mentor interviews. Boys in Years 8-12 must complete their student reflection before Meet the Mentor interviews. Numerous information seminars will he held throughout the day for both parents and students, and all boys must have their individual photo taken. For more information about Administration Day and the seminars, please click here.

I look forward to seeing you all on Tuesday and at various functions and sport fixtures throughout the year.