Thrive Newsletter – Week 10 Term 3 2026
A Final Word of Encouragement
As I write this final article for the Thrive newsletter for Term 3 2026 as Caretaker Principal, I do so with a full heart and deep gratitude to God. A tick over 8 months ago, I stepped into this role not knowing exactly what the season would hold. Since then, I have had the privilege of sharing in the life of this school community—meeting with students, encouraging staff, working alongside families and Board members, and seeing many moments of God’s goodness along the way. I will look back on these months with great thankfulness.
Hebrews 12:1–3 has been a helpful reminder throughout this season to “fix our eyes on Jesus.” In the midst of the demands and responsibilities of school life, it is easy to become focused on what is immediately in front of us. Yet Christ remains the sure foundation of the team at Casino Christian School and the reason we serve.
Thank you to our families for your encouragement, patience and partnership throughout the first three terms. Your support matters greatly. To our students, thank you for the enthusiasm, effort and contribution you have brought to school life. It has been a joy to watch you learn, grow and take on new challenges.
To our HSC students, prepare well as you undertake your examinations, do your best and trust God with the outcome. Remember that an examination result can measure achievement, but it cannot measure your worth. At Casino Christian School we know each person has immense value because they are made in the image of God.
As I conclude my time in the role, I am pleased to commend Mrs Carolyn Coulter, who the School Board has appointed to serve as Acting Principal for the remainder of this school year. I encourage the whole community to support and pray for her as she leads through Term 4. From the beginning of next year, Mr Mitchell Clarke will commence as our new Principal, marking the beginning of an important new chapter for the school. Both leaders will appreciate your encouragement, prayer and support as they serve.
I am particularly grateful to the Board for its vision, wise governance and prayerful support throughout this season. Its commitment to the mission and future of the school has been a great encouragement.
Service in Christian education involves time and energy and at times difficult decisions and responsibilities that are not always visible. Yet Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good,” Serving the Lord through the lives of young people is a privilege worth embracing. In 1 Corinthians 15:58 we are reminded that “labour in the Lord is not in vain.”
As I look ahead, my confidence is that this school will remain firmly Christ-centred, with the good news about the Risen Lord Jesus shaping not only what we teach but how we treat one another. I also hope we will continue to cultivate faithful excellence in the learning and teaching process and generous service, preparing young people to use their gifts with humility, courage and purpose.
I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me, for the many kindnesses shown to me and for the opportunity to be part of this community. I leave with confidence in God’s continued provision and care for this school.
Yours Sincerely,
Mr Jeff Allen
Caretaker Principal
School Updates
A Faith-Filled Farewell to Our Year 12 Graduates
There are some moments in school life that feel particularly special — moments when we pause from the busyness of everyday life to reflect on how far our students have come. Our Year 12 Graduation Ceremony was one of those precious moments.
Surrounded by family, friends, staff and members of our wider community, we gathered to celebrate not only the achievements of our graduating students, but also the young people they have become.
The ceremony provided a wonderful opportunity to recognise the dedication, perseverance and commitment of our Year 12 students. Our First in Subject Awards celebrated outstanding academic achievement, while our School Values Awards recognised students who have demonstrated the qualities and values that are at the heart of our school community. Other awards of recognition allowed us to celebrate the many individual contributions, accomplishments and personal journeys that have made this cohort so special.
Yet, as we celebrated these achievements, it was impossible not to reflect on the journey that brought our students to this moment.
Behind every award is a story — of hard work, challenges overcome, moments of uncertainty, encouragement from others, friendships formed and countless small steps forward. Graduation is not simply about what our students have achieved; it is about the growth, resilience, courage and character they have developed along the way.
As a Christian community, we are also reminded that none of us walks our journey alone. We give thanks to God for the gifts, opportunities and people who have supported our students throughout their years at school. We trust that the same God who has walked with them through their school years will continue to guide and strengthen them as they step into the future.
The words of Jeremiah 29:11 offer a beautiful reminder as our students begin this next chapter:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
These words speak beautifully to a graduation moment. There may be excitement about what lies ahead, but there may also be uncertainty. Some paths are already clear, while others are still waiting to unfold. Whatever the future holds, we pray that our graduates will move forward with faith, courage and hope, trusting that God is with them in every season.
For our families, this was undoubtedly a moment of great pride and emotion. They have walked alongside their children throughout their schooling journey — celebrating successes, offering encouragement through challenges and supporting them through every stage. Graduation was a chance for the whole community to share in that joy and give thanks for the journey.
The cake cutting and light refreshments that followed added a warm and joyful touch to the occasion. Families, students, staff and community members gathered together, sharing stories, laughter, photographs and memories. In these simple moments of fellowship, we were reminded of the importance of community and the blessing of sharing life’s milestones together.
To our Year 12 students, we want you to know how incredibly proud we are of you.
You have left your mark on our school in ways that extend far beyond awards and academic results. You have been classmates, friends, leaders, role models and an important part of our community. Your presence, personalities, achievements and individual stories have helped shape the character of our school.
As you leave us and begin the next chapter of your lives, take with you the friendships, memories, lessons and experiences that have shaped you. Take the confidence to embrace new opportunities, the resilience to face challenges and the courage to follow the path God has placed before you.
Above all, remember the words of Proverbs 3:5–6:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
There will be moments when you know exactly where you are going and moments when the way forward may seem unclear. In both, may you remember to place your trust in God, seek His wisdom and allow your faith to guide your choices.
And when you look back on your school years in the future, we hope you remember not only the big occasions, but also the ordinary moments — the conversations in corridors, shared jokes, classroom experiences, friendships, challenges and the people who helped make your journey what it was.
Year 12, this is your moment to look back with gratitude, forward with faith and ahead with hope.
Your time with us may be coming to an end, but you will always be part of the story of our school. Wherever life takes you, we pray that you will continue to grow in wisdom, compassion and faith, using the gifts God has given you to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Congratulations to the Year 12 Class of 2026.
Thank you for the memories. Thank you for the contribution you have made to our community. And most of all, thank you for being you.
As you step beyond these school gates and into the future, may God bless you, guide you and keep you. May He give you courage when the road is difficult, wisdom when decisions are challenging, and joy as you discover all that lies ahead.
Farewell, Year 12. Go with our love, our prayers and our blessing. Your next chapter is beginning — and God is already there.
Celebrating Our 2027 Secondary Leadership Team
We are delighted to announce and celebrate our 2027 Secondary Leadership Team!
Congratulations to our newly appointed School Captains, Isabelle Ford and Samuel Rixon, who will lead our Secondary School community throughout 2027. We also warmly congratulate our Vice Captains, Hannah Robinson and Lincoln Davis, who will work alongside them in supporting students and strengthening our school community.
These students have demonstrated a willingness to step forward, serve others and embrace the responsibility that comes with student leadership. We look forward to seeing them bring enthusiasm, integrity and fresh ideas to their roles.
Our 2027 Leaders
School Captains
Isabelle Ford
Samuel Rixon
Vice Captains
Hannah Robinson
Lincoln Davis
Leadership is about more than a title. It is about listening to others, leading by example, encouraging those around you and making a positive contribution to the community.
As they begin this exciting journey, we are reminded of the words:
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
— 1 Timothy 4:12
We are incredibly proud of Isabelle, Samuel, Hannah and Lincoln and look forward to supporting them as they begin this exciting journey.
Congratulations to our 2027 Secondary Leadership Team! We can’t wait to see you lead, inspire and make your mark in 2027.
Operation Christmas Child
Thank you so much for all your generous contributions so far!
If you would still like to contribute, you are very welcome to bring your donations in over the next couple of days and into Week 1 of Term 4.
We will be packing our Operation Christmas Child boxes during Week 1, Term 4.
Thank you again for your generosity and support!
Volunteers Needed! Scribes for HSC exams needed
We are looking for volunteers to act as writers (scribes) for our HSC examinations.
You can scribe for one or more exams. The dates range between October 13th to November 5th 2026.
Your assistance would be invaluable! Please call the office if you’re interested or email admin@ccs.nsw.edu.au.
Click here for more details: Rules for readers and writers.
Primary Updates
Uniform Expectations
This week, all Primary students were given a copy of this letter to take home to their parents and caregivers.
If you did not receive a copy, please contact the office and we can arrange for the letter to be emailed to you.
Secondary Updates
MMADD Night – Thursday 17th September
Celebrating Creativity, Talent and Dedication
What an incredible evening of Music, Media, Art, Dance and Drama we enjoyed at this year’s MMADD Night!
From our youngest performers in Year 1 through to our Year 12 students, the evening was a wonderful celebration of creativity, courage, discipline and dedication. Our students took to the stage with confidence and enthusiasm, sharing the results of many hours of practice, preparation and perseverance.
Throughout the evening, families and members of our community were treated to a wonderful variety of performances. Students showcased their talents through singing, instrumental performances, dance, drama and other creative expressions, demonstrating the remarkable range of gifts and abilities within our school community. It was fantastic to see students supporting one another and encouraging their peers as they stepped into the spotlight.
MMADD Night was also an opportunity to celebrate the incredible visual arts created by our students. The MPC was transformed into a vibrant gallery, displaying a wide range of artworks that showcased imagination, creativity, skill and personal expression. From our younger artists through to our senior students, the exhibition was a wonderful reflection of the time, effort and thought invested in each piece.
While the performances and artwork were the highlights of the evening, the real story behind MMADD Night is the discipline and commitment of our students. Every performance represents hours of learning, rehearsing and refining skills. We are incredibly proud of the way our students challenged themselves, persevered through the preparation process and then confidently shared their talents with our families and community.
A special thank you goes to Mr Wade for his tremendous organisation and leadership in bringing MMADD Night together. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the many staff members who supported our students, both in the lead-up to the event and throughout the evening. Events like this take a great deal of teamwork behind the scenes, and we are grateful for everyone’s contribution.
Most of all, well done to every student who participated. From Year 1 to Year 12, you should be incredibly proud of what you achieved. Your creativity, dedication and willingness to share your talents made MMADD Night a truly memorable celebration of our students.
What a night to remember — congratulations to all our performers, artists and creatives!
Year 11 & 12 English Studies Excursion – Thursday 17th September
Serving Our Community Through English Studies
On Thursday 17 September, our English Studies students had the wonderful opportunity to visit Kyogle Christian Life Church and help prepare their monthly cook-up for people in need.
Working alongside the church community, our students enthusiastically and purposefully prepared an impressive 40 meals. It was a practical opportunity for them to serve others, work as a team and make a meaningful contribution to the local community.
The excursion also connected beautifully with our English Studies module, Part of a Family, where students explore the many different forms families can take and consider how communities can support families in a variety of circumstances and situations.
We were delighted to receive some wonderful feedback from the organiser, who shared, “It is always a pleasure to have Casino Christian School come for a cook up.”
We are incredibly proud of our students and teachers for embracing this opportunity to serve with enthusiasm, compassion and generosity. It was a fun and impactful experience, reminding us all of the difference we can make when we work together to support others.
Well done to everyone involved!
Year 7 & 8 Enrichment Excursion – Friday 18th September
Learning Through Enrichment — Year 7 & 8
Sometimes the most meaningful learning happens when we step outside the classroom.
Our Year 7 and 8 students recently enjoyed a 40-minute walk along the Rail Trail as part of their Enrichment program. While the walk provided an opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy some fresh air, it was also a valuable opportunity for students to grow in ways that cannot always be measured in a classroom.
As they walked together, students had the opportunity to build relationships, practise communication, encourage one another and develop confidence. Simple conversations, shared experiences and moments of encouragement helped strengthen connections between students and created a positive sense of community.
It was particularly encouraging to see students supporting one another and participating so beautifully throughout the experience. These moments remind us that learning is not only about acquiring knowledge, but also about developing the character, relationships and life skills that help our young people flourish.
Our Enrichment program provides space for students to discover, connect and grow through experiences beyond their everyday classroom routines. Whether through physical activity, creative experiences, service or time spent together, these opportunities help students develop confidence, resilience and a greater appreciation for the people around them.
We love seeing our students grow, connect and learn beyond the classroom — and we look forward to many more opportunities for meaningful enrichment throughout the year.
Staff Vs Students Soccer Game – Tuesday 22nd September
The game was a tight contest, with the staff constantly testing the students’ defence with shots on goal, while the students produced some last-gasp defensive efforts to keep themselves in the game. The students eventually found a counter-attacking goal in the dying minutes to level the score at 1–1.
The students held their nerve to win the shootout and claim their underdog victory.
Congratulations to the students – too good on the day!
Sport Updates
Learning Through Movement — PASS & SLR at SCU Gym
On Thursday 24 September, our PASS and SLR elective students stepped outside the usual school environment for a practical and engaging fitness experience at the SCU Gym.
As an important part of these subjects, students are encouraged to learn through movement and experience physical activities that they may not typically encounter through school sport or PE. This excursion provided a fantastic opportunity for students to explore different approaches to improving fitness, flexibility and overall physical wellbeing.
The students participated in two very different gym classes. The morning began with a HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) class, where students were challenged through a range of activities designed to develop their cardio-respiratory fitness. Following this, students took part in a Body Balance class, exploring movement, control and exercises focused on improving flexibility.
Students also had the opportunity to learn more about gym equipment, including various machines and free weights, and how these can be used to develop muscular strength, endurance and power.
It was great to see our students embracing the experience and being willing to challenge themselves through activities outside their usual routines. Experiences such as this help students connect the theory they learn in PASS and SLR with practical applications, while encouraging them to develop healthy and active lifestyles beyond their school years.
A big thank you to the staff who supported the students throughout the excursion and to the team at SCU Gym for providing such a valuable and enjoyable learning experience.
Well done to our PASS and SLR students for getting involved, having a go and learning through movement!
Hannah Excels at CIS Athletics Carnival!
1st in the 200m
2nd in Long Jump
3rd in the 1500m 3rd in the 400m
Uniform Updates
New Uniform Orders: Just a reminder that Year 7 – 12 are required to wear a navy tie with their formal uniform. These are now back in stock and available to order.
Scan the QR code on your order form or visit www.teamspiritschools.com.au/school-shop. Enter the PASSWORD: uniform36
Regular fitting and collection days during school terms will be on Wednesdays, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Students can schedule fittings by emailing uniform@ccs.nsw.edu.au with their student’s name and year. Parents do not need to attend fittings; uniform staff will ensure they are correctly fitted and sent home with a list of sizes for each item.
We also have a limited amount of our current uniform stock available at 50% off (excluding hats). These items may be purchased directly from the Uniform Shop while stock lasts.
For more information about our school uniform requirements, please read our uniform policy.
Just a few notes regarding the uniform:
- We now have available to order two styles of girls’ blouses – the slimfit and a normal fit blouse. This will be clearly labelled on the new order forms, with the slimfit shirts in a red font. Please order according to the size indicated on the size sheet brought home from your child’s fitting.
- We have amended the girls’ uniform slightly so that during colder weather, navy opaque stockings can be worn with the skort or skirts, as an alternative to pants.
Library Updates
Term 3 Dates
Last Day of Term 3
Friday 25th September
Students Return to School
Tuesday 13th October
Week 1(A)- 12th – 16th October
Monday 12th
Staff Development Day – No Students
Tuesday 13th
All Students Return
HSC Exams
Yr5/6 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr7/8 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G2/3
Yr11/12 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime A12
Wednesday 14th
HSC Exams
Yr3/4 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime YR3 Room
Yr5/6 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr9/10 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G1
Thursday 15th
HSC Exams
Maths Help at Lunch in G2
Yr3/4 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr4 Room
Friday 16th
HSC Exams
Week 2(B)- 19th-23rd October
Monday 19th
HSC Exams
Tuesday 20th
HSC Exams
Zone Futsal – Coffs Harbour
Yr5/6 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr7/8 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G2/3
Yr11/12 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime A12
Wednesday 21st
HSC Exams
Yr3/4 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime YR3 Room
Yr5/6 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr9/10 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G1
Thursday 22nd
HSC Exams
Maths Help at Lunch in G2
Yr3/4 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr4 Room
Friday 23rd
HSC Exams
Week 3(A)- 19th-23rd October
Monday 26th
HSC Exams
Tuesday 27th
HSC Exams
Secondary Assembly – 9am
Yr5/6 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr7/8 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G2/3
Yr11/12 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime A12
Wednesday 28th
HSC Exams
Yr3/4 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime YR3 Room
Yr5/6 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr9/10 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G1
Thursday 29th
HSC Exams
Senior Prep Day
Maths Help at Lunch in G2
Yr3/4 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr4 Room
Friday 30th
HSC Exams
Year 7 Orientation Day
Week 4(B) – 2nd – 6th November
Monday 2nd
HSC Exams
Yr 7-10 Assessment Week
Tuesday 3rd
HSC Exams
Yr 7-10 Assessment Week
Yr5/6 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr7/8 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G2/3
Yr11/12 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime A12
Wednesday 4th
HSC Exams
Yr 7-10 Assessment Week
Yr3/4 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime YR3 Room
Yr5/6 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr9/10 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G1
Thursday 5th
HSC Exams
Yr 7-10 Assessment Week
Maths Help at Lunch in G2
Yr3/4 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr4 Room
Friday 6th
Yr 7-10 Assessment Week
Primary Assembly – 9am
Week 5 (A) – 9th – 13th November
Monday 9th
Yr 10 Work Experience
Tuesday 10th
Yr 10 Work Experience
Year 12 Formal
Yr5/6 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr7/8 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G2/3
Yr11/12 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime A12
Wednesday 11th
Yr 10 Work Experience
Yr3/4 Boys Bible Study – Lunchtime YR3 Room
Yr5/6 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr6 Room
Yr9/10 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G1
Thursday 12th
Yr 10 Work Experience
Maths Help at Lunch in G2
Yr3/4 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr4 Room
Friday 13th
Yr 10 Work Experience
Jersey Day
2026 Term Dates
Community Events & Services
