Thrive Newsletter Term 3 Week 4 ~ 2025
Senior Information Evening – Planning for the Future
Last night, we were delighted to welcome our senior students and their families to our Senior Information Evening. This event was an important step in helping our Year 10, 11 and 12 students plan their pathways toward a bright and purposeful future.
School Leaving Requirements in NSW
In NSW, students are required by law to complete Year 10. After that point, they must remain in school, undertake full-time further education (such as TAFE or an apprenticeship), or engage in full-time employment until they turn 17. Students can only leave school before the completion of Year 12 in specific circumstances — for example, if they move into approved training or employment pathways that meet the NSW Department of Education requirements.
Our goal is to ensure that every student leaves school with the skills, qualifications, and experiences that set them up for success — whether that’s at university, in vocational training, or entering the workforce.
Employment Trends Over the Next 5–10 Years
The latest Australian employment projections (May 2024–May 2034), sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (https://www.jobsandskills.gov.au/data/employment-projections), highlight strong growth in several occupational groups:
- Professionals – Projected to grow by over 20%, making it the largest occupational group.
- Community and Personal Service Workers – Expected to increase by 17.6%, driven by healthcare, aged care, and social services demand.
- Managers – Predicted growth of 15.7%, reflecting leadership needs across industries.
These trends show that most jobs of the future will require post-school qualifications, and in many cases, postgraduate study after completing the HSC. Higher-level skills, adaptability, and lifelong learning will be essential.
Skills of the Future
Employment growth is strongest in higher-skilled roles:
- Skill Level 1 (Bachelor degree or higher) – Projected growth of 20.2% over the next decade.
- Skill Level 4 (Certificate II or III) – Growth of 13.2%.
- Skill Level 2 (Advanced Diploma/Diploma) – Growth of 11.8%
This reinforces the importance of continuing education and training after school to remain competitive in the workforce.
Growing Industry Sectors
Some industries are predicted to expand significantly:
• Healthcare and Social Assistance – Growth of 25.9%.
• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services – Growth of 19.2%.
• Rental, Hiring and Real Estate Services – Growth of 15.3%.
• Financial and Insurance Services – Growth of 14.8%.
• Information Media and Telecommunications – Growth of 14.7%.
These sectors will offer many future career opportunities, but most will require formal qualifications and ongoing professional development.
Tailored Pathways at Casino Christian School
We understand that every student’s aspirations are unique. That’s why we work to diversify and tailor each student’s Stage 6 experience to align with their strengths, interests, and career goals. Through our connections with:
• School-Based Apprenticeships
• TAFE and TVET programs
• Distance Education Providers
we are able to design flexible and personalised study patterns that meet both NESA requirements and the needs of our young people.
Partnering With Families
Parents and carers play a vital role in helping students navigate their choices. We encourage you to attend planning appointments with your child and our senior secondary leadership team. Mr Matt Lake (Deputy of Secondary) and Mrs Kendal Bryant (Stage 6 Coordinator) will be in contact soon to arrange these meetings. Together, we can ensure every student has a pattern of study that sets them up for success.
Let’s prayerfully and practically work together to help our young people step confidently into the future God has planned for them.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs Faith Hull
Principal
School Updates
Creative & Performing Arts
Over the years, our school musicals have been truly outstanding, with productions such as Matilda and The Lion King showcasing the incredible talents of our students and staff. Given the significant time and effort involved in staging these large-scale events, we have made the decision to hold musicals every third year. This means our next musical will take place in 2027, with the title to be announced closer to the time.
In the meantime, we are excited to invite you to our Creative and Performing Arts Evening on Thursday, 11th September at 6:00pm. This special event is a celebration of our students’ artistic and performance talents across a range of disciplines.
We warmly welcome and encourage all families and community members to attend. It promises to be a wonderful evening of creativity, expression, and celebration.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Primary School Updates
Father’s Day Stall
Thursday 4th September
On Thursday, the 4th of September, the P&F Committee will be running our annual Father’s Day Stall for Primary students.
For things to run smoothly on the day, we are asking students to pre-pay and indicate the number of gifts they wish to purchase. There will also be $5 and $10 gift selections.
On the day, students will then get to select their gift/s in their class group.
Notes will go home with students tomorrow, and a copy is attached below.
Please complete the note and return it to the office with payment by Friday, 29th August 2025
Book Week & Grandparents Day Highlights!
Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary Excursion Highlights
Last week, our Kindergarten and Year 1 students embarked on an exciting excursion to the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, sparking curiosity and wonder in every corner. The day began with eager faces and backpacks in hand, ready to explore the sanctuary’s wide variety of native animals and learn about their habitats.
Guided by the knowledgeable sanctuary staff, the children encountered koalas, kangaroos, reptiles, and colourful birdlife, each encounter offering a chance to discover fascinating facts and ask thoughtful questions. A highlight for many was the opportunity to get up close with some of the animals, fostering both confidence and respect for wildlife.
Along the way, students learned about the importance of conservation and how we can all play a part in protecting Australia’s unique environment. The sanctuary’s interactive presentations kept everyone engaged, with plenty of smiles, laughter, and “wow” moments.
By the end of the day, tired but happy, the children returned to school with new knowledge, cherished memories, and a deeper appreciation for the animals that share our world. It was a truly enriching experience that blended fun, learning, and care for nature.
Swimming Intensives
Students from Kindergarten to Year 3 will have their Intensive Swimming Program from Monday 18th to Friday 22nd August 2025 held at Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre.
The students will be sorted into ability-graded groups at the pool and instructed by qualified swimming instructors in a 30-minute water safety and swimming sessions. The students will also have a 30-minute session on the slide.
There is no cost for this program, as it is covered under the Sports Levy in the school fees.
Stage 3 Camp – CYC Camp Drewe Lennox Head
PERMISSION NOTES & DEPOSIT DUE TOMORROW (Friday 15th August)
22nd – 24th September 2025 | (Mon-Wed, Week 10, Term 3)
On Monday 22nd September – Wednesday 24th September (2025) the Year 5 and 6 students will be attending Camp Drewe – Lennox Head for their Stage 3 camp. This will be run in partnership with CYC.
The aim of this camp is to grow quality relationships amongst the students, have fun together, build the qualities of leadership and generosity and contribute to a positive school culture.
Activities will include:
- Low Ropes Course, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Raft Building, Swimming, an Amazing Race, a night beach walk, and games.
- Students sleep in cabin accommodation, and all meals are included.
- Students will travel by our school buses. The buses will leave school around 9am on
- Monday morning and students will return to school by 3pm Wednesday afternoon.
The total cost of the camp per student will be $320, made in three installments:
● $100 deposit – due by Friday 15th August (Wk 4, Term 3) – NON -REFUNDABLE
● $110 – second payment – Friday 29th August (Wk 6, Term 3)
● $110 – third payment – due by Friday 12th September (Wk 8, Term 3)
For more information and a copy of the permission note, please view the link below.
Along with the paper permission note, parents will also need to register their child for the camp with the online registration at the link below.
https://book.venue.life/cycburleigh/register/2245-year-56-camp
High School Updates
Year 8 Science
In Science this term, Year 8 students have been studying the structure and function of the human body, with a focus on the circulatory system. To bring their learning to life, they recently dissected beef hearts, providing a hands-on opportunity to examine the anatomy of a real heart. This activity allowed students to identify key features such as chambers, valves, and major blood vessels, and to see how these structures work together to pump blood. The dissection helped reinforce theoretical knowledge from the classroom, sparking curiosity and engagement while developing important scientific observation and practical skills.
Year 10 Careers Excursion – Casino Food Company Ltd
Today, our Year 10 students visited Casino Food company as part of their careers program, gaining valuable insight into the diverse opportunities within the food production industry. The excursion aimed to broaden students’ understanding of career pathways, from hands-on production roles to quality control, logistics, marketing, and management.
Upon arrival, students were welcomed by company staff and taken on an informative tour of the facility. They observed the various stages of food processing and packaging, learning how technology, teamwork, and strict safety standards come together to deliver high-quality products. Staff shared their personal career journeys, offering advice on skills, training, and qualifications relevant to the industry.
The visit also highlighted the importance of local businesses to the community and the wide range of employment possibilities available close to home. Students were encouraged to think about transferable skills and how school subjects link to real-world careers.
The day concluded with a lively Q&A session, where Year 10 students asked thoughtful questions and left feeling inspired and informed about future opportunities. It was a hands-on, eye-opening experience that connected classroom learning to the world of work.
Year 9 Phototographic and Digital Media and Visual Arts Excursion
Yesterday, our Year 9 students visited the Lismore Regional Art Gallery to experience the prestigious Archibald Prize exhibition, a highlight on Australia’s art calendar. The excursion offered students the chance to view an inspiring collection of portrait paintings by some of the country’s most talented artists.
As they explored the gallery, students were captivated by the diversity of styles, techniques, and stories behind each work. Guided by gallery staff, they learned about the history of the Archibald Prize, the judging process, and the ways artists convey personality, emotion, and narrative through portraiture.
Many students found themselves drawn to particular works, sparking lively discussions about artistic choices, symbolism, and interpretation. The visit encouraged creative thinking and deepened their appreciation for visual arts, providing inspiration for their own artistic projects.
By the end of the day, Year 9 returned to school with broadened perspectives, fresh ideas, and a greater understanding of the role of art in telling human stories. It was an enriching and thought-provoking experience that connected them with both national culture and the vibrant local arts community.
Library News
Book Fair
Thank you to all the students and parents who came to the Book Fair! It was a great success with many books purchased!
Sports Updates
CSSA Zone Athletics Carnival - Results
Congratulations to those students who were selected to attend the Zone Athletics Carnival hosted by Coffs Harbour Community Christian School at CEX International Stadium, Coffs Harbour, on Wednesday, 30th July 2025.
It was a big day with many competing at a high level!
Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre (SOPAC) – Homebush Bay
Term 3 Calendar
Week 5 – (A)
Monday – Thursday ~ Swimming K- 3
Monday 18th August
~ Computer Club Year 3-6 – Lunchtime
~ Maths Help for High School – 3.15 to 4 pm
Tuesday 19th August
~ Junior Rock Band – Lunchtime
~ Lunchtime Bible Groups – Year 5 & 6 Girls, Year 5 & 6 Boys and Year 7-10 Boys
Wednesday 20th August
~ Lunchtime Maths Help for High School
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 3 & 4 Boys and Year 3 & 4 Girls
~ Pass Excursion – Laser Skirmish Year 9/10 3.30-9 pm
Thursday 21st August
~ Daffodil Day – Yellow Mufti-Dress
~ Lunchtime Art Club & Yarn Circle
~ Lunchtime Worship Band
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 7-10 Girls and 11 & 12 Boys & Girls.
Friday 22nd August
~ CSSA Primary State Athletics – Sydney
Week 6 – (B)
HSC Trial Exam Week
Monday 25th August
~ K-2 Bible Study – Lunchtime
~ Computer Club Year 3-6 – Lunchtime
~ Maths Help for High School – 3.15 to 4 pm
Tuesday 26th August
~ Junior Rock Band – Lunchtime
~ Lunchtime Bible Groups – Year 5 & 6 Girls, Year 5 & 6 Boys and Year 7-10 Boys
Wednesday 27th August
~ Netball K-6
~ Lunchtime Maths Help for High School
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 3 & 4 Boys and Year 3 & 4 Girls
~ P & F Monthly Meeting – 6pm
Thursday 28th August
~ CSSA Secondary State Athletics – Sydney
~ Lunchtime Art Club & Yarn Circle
~ Lunchtime Worship Band
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 7-10 Girls and 11 & 12 Boys & Girls.
Friday 29th August
Week 7 – (A)
Monday 1st September
~ K-2 Bible Study – Lunchtime
~ Computer Club Year 3-6 – Lunchtime
~ Maths Help for High School – 3.15 to 4 pm
Tuesday 2nd September
~ Junior Rock Band – Lunchtime
~ Lunchtime Bible Groups – Year 5 & 6 Girls, Year 5 & 6 Boys and Year 7-10 Boys
~ Primary Spring Social
Wednesday 3rd September
~ Netball K-6
~ Lunchtime Maths Help for High School
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 3 & 4 Boys and Year 3 & 4 Girls
Thursday 4th September
~ Fathers Day Stall – Primary School
~ Lunchtime Art Club & Yarn Circle
~ Lunchtime Worship Band
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 7-10 Girls and 11 & 12 Boys & Girls.
Friday 5th September
~ Father’s Day Breakfast 7.30 am – 8.45 am
~ Primary Assembly 9.15 am
Week 8 – (B)
Monday 8th September
~ K-2 Bible Study – Lunchtime
~ Computer Club Year 3-6 – Lunchtime
~ Maths Help for High School – 3.15 to 4 pm
Tuesday 9th September
~ Junior Rock Band – Lunchtime
~ Lunchtime Bible Groups – Year 5 & 6 Girls, Year 5 & 6 Boys and Year 7-10 Boys
Wednesday 10th September
~ Vaccinations – Year 7 & 10
~ Lunchtime Maths Help for High School
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 3 & 4 Boys and Year 3 & 4 Girls
Thursday 11th September
~ Lunchtime Art Club & Yarn Circle
~ Lunchtime Worship Band
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 7-10 Girls and 11 & 12 Boys & Girls.
~ CAPA Night – Creative Performing Arts Showcase – 6pm
Friday 12th September
~ Zone Netball & NRL – Ballina
Week 9 – (A)
Monday 15th September
~ K-2 Bible Study – Lunchtime
~ Computer Club Year 3-6 – Lunchtime
~ Maths Help for High School – 3.15 to 4 pm
Tuesday 16th September
~ Junior Rock Band – Lunchtime
~ Lunchtime Bible Groups – Year 5 & 6 Girls, Year 5 & 6 Boys and Year 7-10 Boys
Wednesday 17th September
~ Lunchtime Maths Help for High School
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 3 & 4 Boys and Year 3 & 4 Girls
Thursday 18th September
~ Lunchtime Art Club & Yarn Circle
~ Lunchtime Worship Band
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 7-10 Girls and 11 & 12 Boys & Girls.
Friday 19th September
~ Primary Assembly 9.15 am
Week 10 – (B)
Work Experience Year 10 22nd – 26th
Stage 3 (Year 5 & 6) Camp 22nd – 24th
Monday 22nd September
~ K-2 Bible Study – Lunchtime
~ Computer Club Year 3-6 – Lunchtime
~ Maths Help for High School – 3.15 to 4 pm
Tuesday 23rd September
~ Junior Rock Band – Lunchtime
~ Lunchtime Bible Groups – Year 5 & 6 Girls, Year 5 & 6 Boys and Year 7-10 Boys
Wednesday 24th September
~ Lunchtime Maths Help for High School
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 3 & 4 Boys and Year 3 & 4 Girls
~ P & F Monthly Meeting – 6pm
Thursday 25th September
~ Lunchtime Art Club & Yarn Circle
~ Lunchtime Worship Band
~ Lunchtime Bible Study Groups – Year 7-10 Girls and 11 & 12 Boys & Girls.
Friday 26th September
~ Year 12 Graduation Ceremony – 11.30 am
Community Events
