Principal's report
From the Principal
As a School community, we are very proud of how we promote all aspects of national reconciliation throughout Haileybury Rendall School.
From the Principal
Haileybury Melbourne Visiting School Captains at National Reconciliation Concert in Darwin on Tuesday, 26 May 2025
I loved the speech that Nia and Tim gave to our whole school as part of our opening assembly during National Reconciliation Week. They were part of a group of 10 Prefects and two staff who joined us for the week. Here it is;
We’re incredibly grateful to be here on Larrakia land, standing alongside you today – not just as your peers but as proud Australians who recognise the significance of our trip this week and, of course, this specific moment and the responsibility it carries.
Back in Melbourne, we begin each assembly with an Acknowledgement of our Country - the Boonwurrung and Wurundjeri land. On campus, we raise the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags high and with pride. And while these are important traditions, they alone cannot carry the weight of our reconciliation efforts.
For us, reconciliation efforts are not just symbolism; they amount to something so much more. We must confront history honestly in an ongoing, active effort towards change. This isn’t just a responsibility; it is a shared gift that we have been granted. We’re a nation, growing in empathy and growing in truth and acknowledging the true nature of our heritage.
And so, we came up to Darwin not only to celebrate Reconciliation Week but to deepen our understanding because there is a vast difference between just recognising culture and fostering a true connection with it.
That’s why this week matters. That’s why it’s so important to be together — Haileybury Melbourne and Haileybury Rendall School, Darwin, walking towards the change as one. Because reconciliation is about unity without uniformity. We don’t all have to be the same. But we all have to move forward. Together.
This year’s Reconciliation Week theme, “Bridging now to next,” is an essential call to action, especially after events in recent years. This week is not just something to pencil in on the calendar. It is not just an excuse to roll out the black, red and yellow decorations for seven days. It is, instead, an important reminder of the consistent movement that Australians all around the nation are getting behind: “Now, more than ever,” we must move beyond this symbolism; we must now learn the truth and adapt to it.
And we know that together, it is possible to create lasting change. Just see the shift in the Australian anthem, finally acknowledging that we are not a young nation with over 60,000 years of rich history, but we are instead “one and free”.
That freedom is a privilege, a privilege that allows us to continue advocating for what we believe is right.
And while we are lucky, a bridge must lead somewhere.
That bridge is being built here today between our two schools. Our trip isn’t a gesture, it’s a commitment. By walking together, listening to each other and learning from one another, we are proving that reconciliation can live in the conscious decisions we make as schools, as leaders, and as mates.
It is easy to mention or drop the word ‘reconciliation’. But let’s be clear. Reconciliation isn’t always easy. It asks for honesty, reflection and sometimes discomfort. But it also brings pride. Pride in our culture. Pride in our progress. And pride in the fact that we, as students and young people, can be part of something that transforms our nation for the better.
Even better, as young people, we are often told that we’re the leaders of tomorrow. But can we really afford to wait for tomorrow? Why can’t it be today? The power in making a difference today lies in the conversations we choose to have, and in the ones we choose not to ignore.
And that’s what reconciliation needs. Not just grand gestures, but genuine, consistent, conscious choices today and every day. As young leaders, the worst thing to do is to pretend we know everything. Especially in a world that often rushes to speak, the willingness to listen and to learn, with respect, might be the most important takeaway from reconciliation.
When we first arrived in Darwin and stepped onto Larrakia land, there was an immediate sense that this place holds stories — old stories, proud stories, and stories that continue to shape today. It wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a reminder that every part of this country has a deep cultural history, as we learnt yesterday from our welcoming to Larrakia Country through the Saltwater ceremony. Connecting to the land and the important stories and practices that are sacred within it.
Being here has challenged us to think more deeply about what it means to walk respectfully on land that is not ours — land that has always belonged to the First Nations people. That reflection is what reconciliation invites us into — the willingness to listen, to learn and to lean into knowledge before we speak.
The crux of our trip here is simple: connection.
It is from you and your experiences that we truly learn. Our wonderful Haileybury bubble across the nation fosters reconciliation and respect, and this week is teaching us lifelong lessons that we will take on well beyond our Haileybury journey. Reconciliation is not for the sake of throwing around the word or just discussing the concept. Reconciliation is important for the people that we have met and the people that we wish to one day meet.
We show our love for our country through our actions, day in and day out. We trust one another through learning from our past and moving into a brighter future. We acknowledge our history, and that ‘sorry’ is solidified through change. So, from Melbourne to Darwin, bridging our story to yours, we’re here because, despite the distance, healing happens through connection, as one Haileybury. Connection begins with respect, with listening, and with heart.
Thank you for having us, and thank you for helping shape a future where every story is valued, every voice is heard, and no one is left behind.
Andrew McGregor
Principal
Take note
Save the Date
|
Semester 2 Begins for Middle and Senior School
|
Monday, 26 May
|
|
National Reconciliation Week
|
May 27- June 3
|
|
AMEB Exams
|
Tuesday, 3 June
|
|
King's Birthday Public Holiday
|
Monday, 9 June
|
|
Middle School Academic Awards Assembly
|
Wednesday, 11 June
|
|
Junior School Academic Assembly
|
Friday, 13 June
|
|
Year 12 Formal
|
Friday, 13 June
|
|
GAT Test
|
Tuesday, 17 June
|
|
Senior School Academic Awards Assembly
|
Wednesday, 18 June
|
|
Junior School Connection Day
|
Friday, 20 June
|
|
Term 2 Concludes
|
Friday, 20 June
|
|
Term 3 Commences
|
Tuesday, 15 July
|
|
VCE Information Evening
|
Tuesday, 22 July
|
|
OHA Day
|
Wednesday, 23 July
|
|
Darwin Show Public Holiday
|
Friday, 25 July
|
|
Movie Night
|
Friday, 1 August
|
|
Picnic Day Public Holiday
|
Monday, 4 August
|
|
The Addams Family - The New Musical
|
September 12 & 13
|
Junior School news
A week to remember
I hope you are all enjoying the beautiful dry season weather. It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through Term 2—the weeks are flying by, and our students have been as busy and engaged as ever. Congratulations to Year 5 and 6 students for attending the Outdoor Education programs over the past few weeks. It was a fantastic experience for our students, and many memories were made by all.
Teachers and Outdoor Education staff, thank you for your professionalism and care towards our students. It is greatly appreciated.
A big thank you to everyone who joined us for our Mother’s Day Breakfast. It was a wonderful morning celebrating the incredible women in our community. Seeing so many families come together to honour the important role of mothers and carers was a beautiful reminder of the strength and warmth of our school community.
Last Friday, we held our much-anticipated and beloved Sports Carnival. Seeing students getting involved, showing great spirit, and genuinely enjoying the day was a joy. A big thank you to the parents who attended—we appreciate your support and encouragement. We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jacob Hill, the P.E. team, the facilities team, and our dedicated teachers for their excellent organisation and effort in making the day such a success.
This week, we mark Reconciliation Week—a time to reflect on our shared history and to honour the cultures, contributions, and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This week is always a meaningful and engaging experience for students and staff. We encourage families to continue these important conversations at home.
Lisa Doyle
Head of Junior School
Camp
Year 6 students have returned from an eventful camp at the Territory Wildlife Park. During the camp, students spent a day at the Darwin Sailing Club, learning how to sail and then giving it a go themselves. Many capsized, but their skills improved, and teamwork helped them become successful sailors. Students explored the park, held snakes, and visited the park at night. Rangers talked to the students about the different animals and, importantly, first aid for a snake bite! The final day was spent bird watching and visiting the Casuarina Coastal Reserve, learning about the environment and the abundance of wildlife. Camping was undoubtedly a highlight of the trip, as was toad busting, making new friends, and feeding the wallabies.
Burn Bright Leadership Workshop
Earlier this week, Year 5 and 6 students attended a workshop to promote leadership qualities in our skillset. Students worked with others from NT independent schools to build their confidence, discussing ways influence can be positive and rewarding. Building resilience and understanding the needs of others was also important in helping our students be positive and active role models.
Michelle Dancis
Junior School teacher
Middle School news
National Reconciliation Week and Culture of Learning
National Reconciliation Week National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is one of the biggest weeks on the Haileybury Rendall School calendar. A week full of truth-telling, reflection, and connection, NRW is organised and run by our Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group and student leaders. Middle School students were actively involved in the organisation of and participation in traditional games as part of NRW. Edor was the game of choice for this year, with games held during lunchtimes in the quad, run by our Middle School student leaders. Edor is an energetic, fast-paced traditional Indigenous Australian game where an attacking player (known as the ‘edor’) works to evade their opponents to reach the end of the playing area. Defenders must quickly remove the ‘edor’s’ tag before scoring a point; if successful, they become the new ‘edor’. Students engaged in the activity with great enthusiasm and interest, with participation from a wide range of students. These games demonstrated the increased connections built during this important week and the bridging of gaps between cultures.
Culture of Learning
The start of a new semester brings opportunities to reset and realign. This week, students transitioned into their new electives and started new units of work in each subject. Reminders around our Culture of Learning are also a focus. The Culture of Learning Framework launched at the start of 2025, with a strong focus on building and practising the routines we know are important for Middle School students to be successful at school. As we begin Semester 2, students are strongly encouraged to know and practise the routines to ‘Prepare’, ‘Be ready’, ‘Engage’, and ‘Complete’ lessons with success each and every day. Families are encouraged to use these routines around the dinner table as a base for discussing how their child is doing at school.
Brendan Evans
Head of Middle School
CDU Brings Real-World Coding Experience to Haileybury Rendall School's Digital Tech Students
Year 9 Digital Technology students recently participated in a game development workshop facilitated by Charles Darwin University. This session provided an extension to their current learning in programming fundamentals. The workshop offered students a practical opportunity to apply their skills in a creative context, deepening their understanding of real-world programming applications and inspiring future pathways in digital technologies.
In addition to this, students had the opportunity to hear from CDU professors about potential study and career pathways in digital technology. These discussions helped students better understand the diverse opportunities available in this broad and continually evolving field.
Jack Galbraith
Head of Computer Science
Student recollection of Ochre Excursion to Parliament House
On Friday the 16th of May, the whole of Ochre travelled to Parliament House, Darwin NT, to learn about state-level Government and the responsibilities of our Parliament members. This excursion covered content for both the Integrated Studies and English units in weeks 1-5. The experience allowed for many students to have their first window into politics in the NT and even provided a discussion about government with members Manuel Brown and Tanzil Rahman. Here are a few recounts from students who attended.
On Friday, 16 May, we visited Parliament House in Darwin to learn about the responsibilities of the members of Parliament and to explore the history of the building.
When we arrived, we first saw the desert rose design on the floor at the entrance. We learned about the different rocks the desert rose represents, which symbolises every state in Australia. We also discussed the old Northern Territory flag and its designs; for instance, the stars represent the states, while the desert rose represents Australia as a whole.
Next, we looked at the wall showcasing the members of Parliament from the Darwin and desert regions. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. After a short break outside, we returned inside, having recess and fun.
We then entered a room where we participated in voting activities. Each student voted for a person to be chosen as Prime Minister, focusing on important issues like housing, a clean environment, and building schools. Later, we went outside for lunch, where the boys chatted peacefully. During lunch, we met Tanzil Rahman, who shared information about Haileybury Rendall School and mentioned that his old friend was the principal.
Finally, we left Parliament House, boarded the bus, and returned to school. After school, we returned to our boarding house.
I felt excited about the excursion because I wanted to learn new things at Parliament House. I discovered the chamber has books that record the discussions word for word, with many more stored behind a wall. My favourite part was the voting activity in the room because we participated in several engaging activities there. I would love to do this again, as it was much more enjoyable than staying in class!
Tyrique
Ochre student
Senior School news
National Reconciliation Week
As we begin Semester 2, we are already in Week 6 and celebrating Reconciliation Week. This year’s theme, ‘Bridging Now to Next,’ encourages reflection on how truth-telling and healing can lead us toward a more just and inclusive future.
Our school has embraced this message through a rich week of events, including the Reconciliation Concert featuring students and staff performing ‘Solid Rock’, the theme song of National Reconciliation Week. Other highlights include a fundraising BBQ, a weaving workshop, a Larrakia Artist Residency with Naomy Briston, a storytelling session with Senior Elder Douglas Bon on Eddie Mabo, and performances by Torres Strait Dancers. We also warmly welcomed 10 Haileybury Melbourne Prefects to our celebrations—enormous thanks to Mr Anthony Barker and the RAP Committee for their dedication and hard work.
Congratulations to our students, Sam, Abigail, Peta, and Isaac, who proudly represented the NT in the National Schools Debating Competition in Sydney. Despite limited experience and no formal NT school debating competition, they held their own against top debaters from across the country. A special mention to Isaac and Sam, who were selected to chair the grand final debate – a tremendous honour. Beyond the competition, our students received the “Most Social State” award – a testament to their kindness, curiosity, and connection with others.
Kylie Mobilia
Head of Senior School
VET Sport & Recreation students in action!
Haileybury Rendall School student Mazlin (Year 11) had the opportunity to put the skills he is learning as part of his VET Sport and Recreation studies into practice when he went back to community. He was able to take on a leadership role at the local sports centre, facilitating group sports sessions for a wide variety of age groups. He assisted in carrying out the activities and managed the resources being used. He confidently reported back to his trainer, Nadine Ives, that his studies at school had given him the confidence to volunteer for the role.
Hear from Mazlan below.
On Monday, 26 May 2025, during the holidays, I returned home to Lajamanu and gathered the Northern Warlpiri senior football team. I ran a warm-up session that involved dynamic stretching, followed by some fundamental drills.
I led a senior team that involved older football players. Although they were older than me, I was confident enough to run the training session, they all enjoyed it and trusted me to do so. The older men weren't doubtful of me running the session because they knew I had experience with footy and knew a bit more than most of them. I feel I have gained the confidence and knowledge to demonstrate and instruct physical activities through my VET Sport and Recreation course alongside my physical education classes and playing football over the years. Doing this made me very confident and trusting, so next time I do something like this, I will take another try and do it again, and you should too.
Mazlan
Year 11 VET Sport and Recreation
Year 11 Reconciliation Projects
Year 11 Personal Development Skills students have been exploring Health and Wellbeing, and the role that Reconciliation can and could improve respectful relationships in this country. Groups have been busy working on small projects aimed to improve overall wellbeing and that share Indigenous culture. These stunning bookmarks, designed by Jessica and Sonny, were gifted to the Library and are available to students. The game of Edor with the Ochre classes released important endorphins through laughter and connection, and made the most of the beautiful dry season sunshine. Spending time in the Transition classrooms sharing hand-drawn colouring sheets representing the animals of Milingimbi and Minyerri was another fantastic relationship builder.
Felicity Pearson
Deputy Principal
From the Principal - Issue 05
Haileybury Melbourne Visiting School Captains at National Reconciliation Concert in Darwin on Tuesday, 26 May 2025
I loved the speech that Nia and Tim gave to our whole school as part of our opening assembly during National Reconciliation Week. They were part of a group of 10 Prefects and two staff who joined us for the week. Here it is;
We’re incredibly grateful to be here on Larrakia land, standing alongside you today – not just as your peers but as proud Australians who recognise the significance of our trip this week and, of course, this specific moment and the responsibility it carries.
Back in Melbourne, we begin each assembly with an Acknowledgement of our Country - the Boonwurrung and Wurundjeri land. On campus, we raise the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags high and with pride. And while these are important traditions, they alone cannot carry the weight of our reconciliation efforts.
For us, reconciliation efforts are not just symbolism; they amount to something so much more. We must confront history honestly in an ongoing, active effort towards change. This isn’t just a responsibility; it is a shared gift that we have been granted. We’re a nation, growing in empathy and growing in truth and acknowledging the true nature of our heritage.
And so, we came up to Darwin not only to celebrate Reconciliation Week but to deepen our understanding because there is a vast difference between just recognising culture and fostering a true connection with it.
That’s why this week matters. That’s why it’s so important to be together — Haileybury Melbourne and Haileybury Rendall School, Darwin, walking towards the change as one. Because reconciliation is about unity without uniformity. We don’t all have to be the same. But we all have to move forward. Together.
This year’s Reconciliation Week theme, “Bridging now to next,” is an essential call to action, especially after events in recent years. This week is not just something to pencil in on the calendar. It is not just an excuse to roll out the black, red and yellow decorations for seven days. It is, instead, an important reminder of the consistent movement that Australians all around the nation are getting behind: “Now, more than ever,” we must move beyond this symbolism; we must now learn the truth and adapt to it.
And we know that together, it is possible to create lasting change. Just see the shift in the Australian anthem, finally acknowledging that we are not a young nation with over 60,000 years of rich history, but we are instead “one and free”.
That freedom is a privilege, a privilege that allows us to continue advocating for what we believe is right.
And while we are lucky, a bridge must lead somewhere.
That bridge is being built here today between our two schools. Our trip isn’t a gesture, it’s a commitment. By walking together, listening to each other and learning from one another, we are proving that reconciliation can live in the conscious decisions we make as schools, as leaders, and as mates.
It is easy to mention or drop the word ‘reconciliation’. But let’s be clear. Reconciliation isn’t always easy. It asks for honesty, reflection and sometimes discomfort. But it also brings pride. Pride in our culture. Pride in our progress. And pride in the fact that we, as students and young people, can be part of something that transforms our nation for the better.
Even better, as young people, we are often told that we’re the leaders of tomorrow. But can we really afford to wait for tomorrow? Why can’t it be today? The power in making a difference today lies in the conversations we choose to have, and in the ones we choose not to ignore.
And that’s what reconciliation needs. Not just grand gestures, but genuine, consistent, conscious choices today and every day. As young leaders, the worst thing to do is to pretend we know everything. Especially in a world that often rushes to speak, the willingness to listen and to learn, with respect, might be the most important takeaway from reconciliation.
When we first arrived in Darwin and stepped onto Larrakia land, there was an immediate sense that this place holds stories — old stories, proud stories, and stories that continue to shape today. It wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a reminder that every part of this country has a deep cultural history, as we learnt yesterday from our welcoming to Larrakia Country through the Saltwater ceremony. Connecting to the land and the important stories and practices that are sacred within it.
Being here has challenged us to think more deeply about what it means to walk respectfully on land that is not ours — land that has always belonged to the First Nations people. That reflection is what reconciliation invites us into — the willingness to listen, to learn and to lean into knowledge before we speak.
The crux of our trip here is simple: connection.
It is from you and your experiences that we truly learn. Our wonderful Haileybury bubble across the nation fosters reconciliation and respect, and this week is teaching us lifelong lessons that we will take on well beyond our Haileybury journey. Reconciliation is not for the sake of throwing around the word or just discussing the concept. Reconciliation is important for the people that we have met and the people that we wish to one day meet.
We show our love for our country through our actions, day in and day out. We trust one another through learning from our past and moving into a brighter future. We acknowledge our history, and that ‘sorry’ is solidified through change. So, from Melbourne to Darwin, bridging our story to yours, we’re here because, despite the distance, healing happens through connection, as one Haileybury. Connection begins with respect, with listening, and with heart.
Thank you for having us, and thank you for helping shape a future where every story is valued, every voice is heard, and no one is left behind.
Andrew McGregor
Principal
Take note - Issue 05
Save the Date
|
Semester 2 Begins for Middle and Senior School
|
Monday, 26 May
|
|
National Reconciliation Week
|
May 27- June 3
|
|
AMEB Exams
|
Tuesday, 3 June
|
|
King's Birthday Public Holiday
|
Monday, 9 June
|
|
Middle School Academic Awards Assembly
|
Wednesday, 11 June
|
|
Junior School Academic Assembly
|
Friday, 13 June
|
|
Year 12 Formal
|
Friday, 13 June
|
|
GAT Test
|
Tuesday, 17 June
|
|
Senior School Academic Awards Assembly
|
Wednesday, 18 June
|
|
Junior School Connection Day
|
Friday, 20 June
|
|
Term 2 Concludes
|
Friday, 20 June
|
|
Term 3 Commences
|
Tuesday, 15 July
|
|
VCE Information Evening
|
Tuesday, 22 July
|
|
OHA Day
|
Wednesday, 23 July
|
|
Darwin Show Public Holiday
|
Friday, 25 July
|
|
Movie Night
|
Friday, 1 August
|
|
Picnic Day Public Holiday
|
Monday, 4 August
|
|
The Addams Family - The New Musical
|
September 12 & 13
|
Junior School - Issue 05
A week to remember
I hope you are all enjoying the beautiful dry season weather. It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through Term 2—the weeks are flying by, and our students have been as busy and engaged as ever. Congratulations to Year 5 and 6 students for attending the Outdoor Education programs over the past few weeks. It was a fantastic experience for our students, and many memories were made by all.
Teachers and Outdoor Education staff, thank you for your professionalism and care towards our students. It is greatly appreciated.
A big thank you to everyone who joined us for our Mother’s Day Breakfast. It was a wonderful morning celebrating the incredible women in our community. Seeing so many families come together to honour the important role of mothers and carers was a beautiful reminder of the strength and warmth of our school community.
Last Friday, we held our much-anticipated and beloved Sports Carnival. Seeing students getting involved, showing great spirit, and genuinely enjoying the day was a joy. A big thank you to the parents who attended—we appreciate your support and encouragement. We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jacob Hill, the P.E. team, the facilities team, and our dedicated teachers for their excellent organisation and effort in making the day such a success.
This week, we mark Reconciliation Week—a time to reflect on our shared history and to honour the cultures, contributions, and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This week is always a meaningful and engaging experience for students and staff. We encourage families to continue these important conversations at home.
Lisa Doyle
Head of Junior School
Camp
Year 6 students have returned from an eventful camp at the Territory Wildlife Park. During the camp, students spent a day at the Darwin Sailing Club, learning how to sail and then giving it a go themselves. Many capsized, but their skills improved, and teamwork helped them become successful sailors. Students explored the park, held snakes, and visited the park at night. Rangers talked to the students about the different animals and, importantly, first aid for a snake bite! The final day was spent bird watching and visiting the Casuarina Coastal Reserve, learning about the environment and the abundance of wildlife. Camping was undoubtedly a highlight of the trip, as was toad busting, making new friends, and feeding the wallabies.
Burn Bright Leadership Workshop
Earlier this week, Year 5 and 6 students attended a workshop to promote leadership qualities in our skillset. Students worked with others from NT independent schools to build their confidence, discussing ways influence can be positive and rewarding. Building resilience and understanding the needs of others was also important in helping our students be positive and active role models.
Michelle Dancis
Junior School teacher
Middle School - Issue 05
National Reconciliation Week and Culture of Learning
National Reconciliation Week National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is one of the biggest weeks on the Haileybury Rendall School calendar. A week full of truth-telling, reflection, and connection, NRW is organised and run by our Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group and student leaders. Middle School students were actively involved in the organisation of and participation in traditional games as part of NRW. Edor was the game of choice for this year, with games held during lunchtimes in the quad, run by our Middle School student leaders. Edor is an energetic, fast-paced traditional Indigenous Australian game where an attacking player (known as the ‘edor’) works to evade their opponents to reach the end of the playing area. Defenders must quickly remove the ‘edor’s’ tag before scoring a point; if successful, they become the new ‘edor’. Students engaged in the activity with great enthusiasm and interest, with participation from a wide range of students. These games demonstrated the increased connections built during this important week and the bridging of gaps between cultures.
Culture of Learning
The start of a new semester brings opportunities to reset and realign. This week, students transitioned into their new electives and started new units of work in each subject. Reminders around our Culture of Learning are also a focus. The Culture of Learning Framework launched at the start of 2025, with a strong focus on building and practising the routines we know are important for Middle School students to be successful at school. As we begin Semester 2, students are strongly encouraged to know and practise the routines to ‘Prepare’, ‘Be ready’, ‘Engage’, and ‘Complete’ lessons with success each and every day. Families are encouraged to use these routines around the dinner table as a base for discussing how their child is doing at school.
Brendan Evans
Head of Middle School
CDU Brings Real-World Coding Experience to Haileybury Rendall School's Digital Tech Students
Year 9 Digital Technology students recently participated in a game development workshop facilitated by Charles Darwin University. This session provided an extension to their current learning in programming fundamentals. The workshop offered students a practical opportunity to apply their skills in a creative context, deepening their understanding of real-world programming applications and inspiring future pathways in digital technologies.
In addition to this, students had the opportunity to hear from CDU professors about potential study and career pathways in digital technology. These discussions helped students better understand the diverse opportunities available in this broad and continually evolving field.
Jack Galbraith
Head of Computer Science
Student recollection of Ochre Excursion to Parliament House
On Friday the 16th of May, the whole of Ochre travelled to Parliament House, Darwin NT, to learn about state-level Government and the responsibilities of our Parliament members. This excursion covered content for both the Integrated Studies and English units in weeks 1-5. The experience allowed for many students to have their first window into politics in the NT and even provided a discussion about government with members Manuel Brown and Tanzil Rahman. Here are a few recounts from students who attended.
On Friday, 16 May, we visited Parliament House in Darwin to learn about the responsibilities of the members of Parliament and to explore the history of the building.
When we arrived, we first saw the desert rose design on the floor at the entrance. We learned about the different rocks the desert rose represents, which symbolises every state in Australia. We also discussed the old Northern Territory flag and its designs; for instance, the stars represent the states, while the desert rose represents Australia as a whole.
Next, we looked at the wall showcasing the members of Parliament from the Darwin and desert regions. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. After a short break outside, we returned inside, having recess and fun.
We then entered a room where we participated in voting activities. Each student voted for a person to be chosen as Prime Minister, focusing on important issues like housing, a clean environment, and building schools. Later, we went outside for lunch, where the boys chatted peacefully. During lunch, we met Tanzil Rahman, who shared information about Haileybury Rendall School and mentioned that his old friend was the principal.
Finally, we left Parliament House, boarded the bus, and returned to school. After school, we returned to our boarding house.
I felt excited about the excursion because I wanted to learn new things at Parliament House. I discovered the chamber has books that record the discussions word for word, with many more stored behind a wall. My favourite part was the voting activity in the room because we participated in several engaging activities there. I would love to do this again, as it was much more enjoyable than staying in class!
Tyrique
Ochre student
Senior School - Issue 05
National Reconciliation Week
As we begin Semester 2, we are already in Week 6 and celebrating Reconciliation Week. This year’s theme, ‘Bridging Now to Next,’ encourages reflection on how truth-telling and healing can lead us toward a more just and inclusive future.
Our school has embraced this message through a rich week of events, including the Reconciliation Concert featuring students and staff performing ‘Solid Rock’, the theme song of National Reconciliation Week. Other highlights include a fundraising BBQ, a weaving workshop, a Larrakia Artist Residency with Naomy Briston, a storytelling session with Senior Elder Douglas Bon on Eddie Mabo, and performances by Torres Strait Dancers. We also warmly welcomed 10 Haileybury Melbourne Prefects to our celebrations—enormous thanks to Mr Anthony Barker and the RAP Committee for their dedication and hard work.
Congratulations to our students, Sam, Abigail, Peta, and Isaac, who proudly represented the NT in the National Schools Debating Competition in Sydney. Despite limited experience and no formal NT school debating competition, they held their own against top debaters from across the country. A special mention to Isaac and Sam, who were selected to chair the grand final debate – a tremendous honour. Beyond the competition, our students received the “Most Social State” award – a testament to their kindness, curiosity, and connection with others.
Kylie Mobilia
Head of Senior School
VET Sport & Recreation students in action!
Haileybury Rendall School student Mazlin (Year 11) had the opportunity to put the skills he is learning as part of his VET Sport and Recreation studies into practice when he went back to community. He was able to take on a leadership role at the local sports centre, facilitating group sports sessions for a wide variety of age groups. He assisted in carrying out the activities and managed the resources being used. He confidently reported back to his trainer, Nadine Ives, that his studies at school had given him the confidence to volunteer for the role.
Hear from Mazlan below.
On Monday, 26 May 2025, during the holidays, I returned home to Lajamanu and gathered the Northern Warlpiri senior football team. I ran a warm-up session that involved dynamic stretching, followed by some fundamental drills.
I led a senior team that involved older football players. Although they were older than me, I was confident enough to run the training session, they all enjoyed it and trusted me to do so. The older men weren't doubtful of me running the session because they knew I had experience with footy and knew a bit more than most of them. I feel I have gained the confidence and knowledge to demonstrate and instruct physical activities through my VET Sport and Recreation course alongside my physical education classes and playing football over the years. Doing this made me very confident and trusting, so next time I do something like this, I will take another try and do it again, and you should too.
Mazlan
Year 11 VET Sport and Recreation
Year 11 Reconciliation Projects
Year 11 Personal Development Skills students have been exploring Health and Wellbeing, and the role that Reconciliation can and could improve respectful relationships in this country. Groups have been busy working on small projects aimed to improve overall wellbeing and that share Indigenous culture. These stunning bookmarks, designed by Jessica and Sonny, were gifted to the Library and are available to students. The game of Edor with the Ochre classes released important endorphins through laughter and connection, and made the most of the beautiful dry season sunshine. Spending time in the Transition classrooms sharing hand-drawn colouring sheets representing the animals of Milingimbi and Minyerri was another fantastic relationship builder.
Felicity Pearson
Deputy Principal
Start the journey
In the spirit of reconciliation, Haileybury acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
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