Thrive Newsletter – Week 4 Term 4 2026
Growing in Patience, Growing in Love
At this stage of the year, much time is dedicated to planning for the future. At CCS, this involves planning for classes, for curriculum development, and exciting new initiatives and programs.
And while our staff are busy planning and preparing for future growth at our School, we are similarly working with our students to encourage their own personal, not just academic growth. This term, our spiritual focus on what the Bible describes as the Fruit of the Spirit.
Galatians 5:22–23 (NIV)
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
In our Secondary daily devotions, we have been focusing on a different aspect of this ‘fruit’, and this week we have been unpacking the idea of patience.
The Bible speaks about patience in two closely related ways, reflected in two Greek words. The first, makrothymia, describes long-suffering — the ability to remain patient with others, even when they frustrate, disappoint or hurt us. The second, hypomonē, describes endurance or perseverance — the ability to remain steadfast through difficulties, challenges and suffering, rather than giving up.
Each of us will experience times when our patience is tested – times when we want to give up, when we lose patience with others, or when we become discouraged as we wait for the goals and hopes we have for the future.
But where does the energy, self-control, inner strength and resolve come from to practise patience in all the different situations life brings?
The Bible gives us an answer to this, too.
Hebrews 12:2–3 (NIV) encourages us to fix our eyes on Jesus, who endured the cross, and to consider what He endured so that we will not grow weary and lose heart.
Here we are told to look to Jesus, and particularly to consider what He endured for us through His death on the cross.
But here’s the thing. When we look to Jesus and His suffering for us, the intention is not that we feel guilt or shame over all the times we have lacked patience. Rather, it is that we recognise the extraordinary expression of His love for us.
In 1 Corinthians 13:4, we are told that “Love is patient.” In fact, patience is the very first attribute of love described in this well-known passage.
Jesus’ endurance, His patience through suffering, was the greatest demonstration of love. He willingly endured the cross because of His love for us.
And so, this week, as we teach our students about patience, our goal is not simply to encourage them to build character, develop perseverance or become more patient people. While these are certainly important, our ultimate desire is to point them to the One whose extraordinary patience and endurance reveal just how deeply they are loved.
Because ultimately, we grow in patience not simply by trying harder, but by looking to Jesus and growing in our understanding of His love for us.
School Updates
2026 ICAS Results
Each year, the University of New South Wales hosts academic competitions that help schools recognise and celebrate academic excellence. If you would like your child to participate in the 2027 competition, please keep an eye out for the registration form in the Term 2 newsletter.
CCS would like to congratulate all students who participated in the 2026 competitions. All results are now available and are as follows:
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School student travel information for parents and students Applications are now open for 2027 SSTS travel Applications for 2027 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel are now open. Students must re-apply or update their details as soon as possible if they:
Students who meet the distance eligibility requirements will have their entitlement updated automatically. Students who no longer meet the distance requirements will receive an expiry notification. Please note that minimum distance requirements vary depending on the year/grade the student is enrolling in. School travel passes Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator. It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass. Terms of use Students must show their school travel pass when travelling within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Cards are personal and cannot be shared. All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel. Mail sent from the Stakeholder Liaison Team, Customer Technology.
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Uniform Expectations
Just a reminder that Year 7 – 12 are required to wear a navy tie with their formal uniform. These are now available to order via Team Spirit website: https://www.teamspiritschools.com.au
Primary Updates
Move Up Day at CCS!
We are excited to be holding our Move Up Day at CCS!
Move Up Day is a wonderful opportunity for students to get a taste of what lies ahead as they prepare for the next stage of their learning journey. Students will have the chance to spend time in their new classrooms, meet their future teachers, connect with classmates and become familiar with their new learning environment.
This special day helps build confidence, excitement and a sense of belonging as students look ahead to the year to come.
We look forward to seeing our students embrace this opportunity, try new things and take the next step in their learning journey!
Jump Rope for Heart – Let’s Get Skipping!
CCS Primary students are jumping into action this term with Jump Rope for Heart.
Throughout the program, students will practise their skipping skills, take on weekly challenges and enjoy getting active with their classmates, while raising funds for the Heart Foundation.
Families are encouraged to register their child at jumprope.org.au/parents, select Casino Christian School and set up an online fundraising page.
We’ll finish with our Jump Off Day on Friday 27 November, celebrating students’ efforts and showcasing the skipping skills they have been learning.
Thank you for supporting our students as they skip, have fun and make a difference!
Alicia Roache
Secondary Updates
Leadership in Action – GRIP Leadership Conference
We are incredibly proud of our SRC and 2027 Captains, who had the wonderful opportunity to attend the GRIP Leadership Conference in Lismore this week.
Our students represented our school beautifully, demonstrating outstanding behaviour, enthusiasm and a genuine willingness to engage in all the experiences and learning opportunities on offer. It was wonderful to hear their thoughtful reflections on what it means to be an effective leader, the activities we plan as an SRC and the many ways we can engage and inspire our wider student body through a variety of activities, events and experiences.
The discussions throughout the day were insightful and thought-provoking, with students sharing their ideas and perspectives in such a respectful and meaningful way. It was particularly encouraging to see them considering how they can use their leadership roles to make a positive difference within our school community.
A huge thank you to our leadership team for being part of this special day. We pray the experience was inspiring, both personally and collectively, and that you have returned with fresh ideas, renewed enthusiasm and a deeper sense of purpose as you continue your leadership journey.
We look forward to seeing the wonderful ideas, initiatives and positive contributions that will grow from this experience. We are so proud of the leaders you are becoming!
Year 10 Celebrate in Style!
Our Year 10 students have been busy putting their creativity, planning and practical skills to the test, completing their celebration cake assessment this morning!
As part of their assessment for this term, students were challenged to plan a special event, such as a birthday celebration, New Year’s Eve party or another occasion worth celebrating. They then had to design and create a celebration cake that reflected the theme and suited their chosen event.
From the initial planning and design stages through to baking, decorating and the finishing touches, students demonstrated their creativity, problem-solving skills and attention to detail. There was a wonderful range of ideas, colours, themes and decorating techniques on display, with each cake showcasing the individual talents and efforts of our students.
The finished cakes were fantastic, and students should be very proud of what they have achieved!
Well done to all our Year 10 students on their hard work, enthusiasm and delicious creations. What a sweet way to finish the term’s assessment!
Sport Updates
Zone 20/20 Cricket Tournament – Thursday 19 November 2026
Congratulations to the students selected to represent Casino Christian School at the Zone 20/20 Cricket Tournament in Lismore on Thursday 19 November 2026.
The tournament will be held at Jim Roder Oval and Barry Davidson Oval, Brewster Street, Lismore. Students will play two games throughout the day, from 8:30am–11:30am and 12:00pm–3:00pm. Games will be played with a standard cricket ball, with all required safety equipment provided.
The team will depart Casino Christian School at 7:00am and is expected to return by approximately 4:15pm.
The cost is $25 per student, covering player fees and transport. The full fee applies even if students make their own way to Lismore. Lunch is not included, so students must bring a substantial breakfast, lunch, snacks and plenty of water.
Students will need to bring:
- Sports uniform, hat and water bottle
- Lunch, snacks and money for McDonald’s (if time permits)
- Sunscreen and any necessary medication
- Personal cricket equipment, if preferred
- Two pairs of underpants for additional protection when wearing a school-provided cricket cup, unless bringing their own.
Mobile phones may be brought but must remain switched off in bags during the day. They may only be used to contact parents if there are delays on the return journey.
Permission slips and the $25 payment must be returned to the school office by Friday 13 November 2026.
We wish our students the very best as they represent Casino Christian School!
Uniform Updates
Library Updates
Book Fair is Coming Soon – Don’t Miss Out!
Get ready for a week of reading, excitement and fantastic savings!
Our Book Fair is arriving in Week 6, just in time to get a head start on your Christmas shopping!
Monday 16th – Thursday 19th November
8:45am – 3:30pm
SPECIAL OFFER: BUY ONE BOOK, GET ONE FREE! That’s right! Buy one book and receive a second book FREE! (The second book must be of equal or lesser value than the first book.)
It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on wonderful books, discover new favourites and find some special Christmas gifts for family and friends.
There will be something for everyone, so come along, browse the wonderful selection and share the joy of reading!
Term 4 Dates
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
State Touch Football – Sydney
Maths Help at Lunch in G2
Yr3/4 Girls Bible Study – Lunchtime Yr4 Room
Friday 13th
Yr 10 Work Experience
K-1 Summerland Farm Excursion
State Touch Football – Sydney
Jersey Day
Week 6(B) – 16th-20th November
Monday 16th
Year 4-6 Swimming – Casino
Tuesday 17th
Year 4-6 Swimming – Casino
Yr7/8 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G2/3
Yr11/12 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime A12
Wednesday 18th
Year 4-6 Swimming – Casino
Yr9/10 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G1
Thursday 19th
Zone Cricket 20/20 – Lismore
Maths Help at Lunch in G2
Friday 20th
Primary Students Move Up Day
Year 7 Orientation – Day 2
Primary Assembly – 9am
Week 7 (A) – 23rd – 27th November
Monday 23rd
Tuesday 24th
Year 4-6 Swimming – Casino
Yr7/8 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G2/3
Yr11/12 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime A12
Wednesday 25th
Year 4-6 Swimming – Casino
Yr9/10 Mixed Bible Study – Lunchtime G1
Thursday 26th
Yr 9&10PASS/Yr 11&12SLR – Paintball
Maths Help at Lunch in G2
Friday 27th
Primary Jump Rope for Heart Day
Week 8 (B) – 30th Nov-4th December
Monday 30th
Tuesday 1st
Primary Celebration Evening – 6-8pm RSM
Wednesday 2nd
Thursday 3rd
Friday 4th
High School Celebration – 10:30-12pm
Week 9 (A) – 7th – December
Monday 7th
Year 6 Graduation Dinner – 6pm RSM
Tuesday 8th
Year 6 Graduation Assembly – 10am
Wednesday 9th
Last Day of School for K-12 Students
Thursday 10th
Staff Development Day – No Students
Friday 11th
Staff Development Day – No Students
2026 Term Dates
Community Events & Services
