Online news from Haileybury Rendall School
Haileybury Rendall School has been recognised as the Northern Territory’s top-ranked private school, reflecting the dedication of students, staff and families. This collective success is matched by the approval of a new Multi-Purpose Games Hall, providing a state-of-the-art, fully air-conditioned space for sport, recreation and school activities year-round.
It has been quite a year for the students, staff and families at Haileybury Rendall School (HRS) and the good news keeps coming! We are delighted to share that HRS has been named the Northern Territory’s top-ranked private school in News Corp’s 2026 national school rankings. This recognition reflects a comprehensive assessment of schools across a range of measures, including academic results, NAPLAN, attendance, student-teacher ratios, facilities and subject offerings. While we are incredibly proud of our academic achievements, this recognition represents much more than results. It reflects the dedication of our students, the commitment and expertise of our teachers and staff, and the strong partnership we share with our families. At HRS, our goal is for every student to find the pathway that is right for them, while developing their strengths, confidence and curiosity. Whether through academic pursuits, sport, performing arts, outdoor education, leadership or community service, we want every student to feel known, supported and valued. This achievement, alongside being named Regional School of the Year at the 2026 Australian Education Awards, is a wonderful acknowledgement of the culture and opportunities we have created together. I congratulate and thank every member of our HRS community. This is a collective achievement and one of which we can all be very proud. |
We are delighted to share some more exciting news with the Haileybury Rendall School community: our new Multi-Purpose Games Hall has been approved and construction is about to begin.
This significant new facility will provide our students with an outstanding, year-round space for sport, physical activity and recreation. Importantly, the entire Games Hall will be fully air-conditioned, providing students with a welcome escape from Darwin’s heat and humidity, as well as the heavy rains and challenging conditions of the wet season.
At the centre of the new facility will be a full-size indoor basketball court, complemented by the flexibility to accommodate a wide range of other sports and activities. Students will be able to enjoy netball, indoor soccer, AFL skills and activities, badminton, volleyball and much more—all in a comfortable indoor environment, whatever the weather outside.
It will be available to students from ELC through to Year 12, providing opportunities for Physical Education classes, school sport, training, competitions and recreational activities throughout the school day.
It will also be an especially valuable addition to Boarding life at HRS. Our boarders will have access to a high-quality, air-conditioned sporting and recreational space beyond normal school hours, including evenings and weekends. Together with our day students, they will benefit from a facility that can support activity and engagement throughout the year.
The new Multi-Purpose Games Hall represents an important investment in the future of Haileybury Rendall School and, most importantly, in the health, wellbeing and experience of our students. In Darwin’s unique tropical climate, the ability to provide a large, weatherproof and air-conditioned sporting facility will make an enormous difference.
The facility will also be used for a wide range of non-sporting activities such as examinations, house meetings, assemblies, rehearsals, community events, staff professional learning and a whole lot more.
We look forward to seeing construction commence and to watching this exciting new addition to our campus take shape over the coming months.
Andrew McGregor
Principal
ELC celebrating community engagement.Our Father’s Day event was a wonderful celebration, and it was special to welcome so many of our parents and families. The afternoon was filled with joy, pride and connection as the children delighted everyone with a beautiful performance of three songs for their families. Their enthusiasm and confidence shone through, creating a heart-warming start to the event. Families then enjoyed a magnificent spread of food and drinks, with school siblings joining us for part of the celebration, adding to the warm and inclusive atmosphere. A variety of engaging activities were available for everyone to enjoy, including woodwork, bolt and washer necklaces, card writing, a pamper station, sports, construction experiences and a fun photo booth. These shared experiences created many special moments and highlighted the strong sense of belonging, connection and joy within our Early Learning Centre community. |
This term has also been full of meaningful learning experiences for both our Preschool and Reception children. Our Preschool students have been participating in the St John Ambulance Mini First Aiders program over several weeks, where they have been introduced to the fundamentals of basic first aid and the important role it plays in helping others. It has been a valuable opportunity for the children to build confidence, knowledge and an understanding of how they can care for those around them.
Our Reception children also participated in the St John Ambulance program on a smaller, more hands-on scale. They thoroughly enjoyed dressing up in paramedic costumes and exploring the ambulance to see what it was like inside. This exciting experience brought their learning to life in a practical and memorable way.
All students also took part in the Book Week parade, putting a great deal of effort into their costumes and showing wonderful bravery as they paraded in front of their Junior School peers. It was lovely to see their creativity, confidence and pride on display as they celebrated the joy of reading and storytelling.
To finish off what has been a very busy and exciting term, our children also participated in the cross-country event. Our superstars ran around the oval to the cheers of parents and older students, showing determination, enthusiasm and great spirit. It was a fantastic way to celebrate the end of the term and the many achievements of our students.
We are so proud of all the children for the way they have embraced each opportunity this term with courage, excitement and care for others. It has truly been a term full of connection, learning and joy.
Michelle Shaw
Head of Early Learning Centre
Our Father’s Day Breakfast was a wonderful morning, and it was fantastic to see so many families and special people attend and share this time with our students. Our students have also achieved some outstanding results beyond the classroom. We had two teams compete at the NT Finals of Tournament of Minds, and both teams performed fantastically well. One team won their division and continues to prepare for the International Finals, which will be held at the end of October. We wish them every success! |
Our students also participated in the National Spelling Bee, with a number of students finishing in the National Top Ten. This is an extraordinary achievement! A huge thank you to Mrs Woolley for her dedication to our extension clubs and for providing our students with so many wonderful opportunities to challenge themselves and discover new interests.
This term has also been filled with exciting experiences, including excursions and our inaugural Year 4 sleepover camp, which was highly anticipated and loved by all.
Our House activities have continued to bring great energy and enthusiasm, with Cross Country and House Singing being particular highlights.
I hope you have a wonderful holiday break filled with time to relax, enjoy being together, do the things you love and recharge for a busy and exciting Term 4.
Lisa Doyle
Head of Junior School
For our Year 9 students, the Lake Argyle Camp was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year and represents a pinnacle experience within their Middle School journey. Away from the familiar routines of school, students were challenged to step outside their comfort zones, work alongside one another and embrace the remarkable environment of our region. Experiences such as these are an important part of what we hope Middle School can be: a time for students to discover more about themselves, their peers and the world around them.
Back at school, there has been equally impressive work taking place in classrooms. Across the term, students have engaged in a wide range of assessment for learning, with some outstanding examples of student work shared and celebrated at our Middle School Assembly by our Head of Middle School Teaching and Learning, Brianna Witte. It is important that we continue to create opportunities not simply to recognise achievement, but to celebrate the process behind it — the drafting, persistence, feedback and improvement that allow students to produce work of which they can be genuinely proud. It has also been wonderful to have our Principal visiting many Middle School classrooms throughout the term, observing firsthand the thoughtful teaching, energetic participation and wonderful learning taking place each day.
Creativity was also on display through our Write a Book in a Day competition, which saw students take on the considerable challenge of conceiving, writing and producing an entire book within a single day. The collaboration, imagination and determination shown by our young writers was fantastic and provided another reminder of what students can achieve when given an ambitious challenge and the opportunity to work together.
Our students also embraced Wear It Purple Day, adding a touch of purple to their uniforms, supporting the student bake sale and contributing to our wonderful Colour and Courage Wall. The day provided an opportunity to reinforce a simple but important message within our community: that every young person deserves to feel safe, valued and supported to be themselves.
This term has also seen a renewed focus on our uniform expectations. I have been particularly pleased with the way students have responded. There has been a noticeable improvement across the Middle School, and I thank our students and families for supporting this reset. Uniform is only one small part of school life, but taking pride in how we present ourselves contributes to a broader culture of shared standards, belonging and respect for our community.
As we head into the break, I am grateful for the energy our students continue to bring to Middle School life. I wish all of our Middle School students and families a safe and refreshing break and look forward to continuing this work together in Term 4.
Katherine Ziebell
Head of Middle School
As Term 3 draws to a close, it is wonderful to reflect on another rewarding term in the Senior School. Our Year 12 students have completed their trial examinations and are now entering an important period of revision and preparation. Meanwhile, our Year 10 and Year 11 students have been looking ahead, completing subject selections for their transition into Years 11 and 12.
Our Year 10 students also gained insight into the world of work through their work experience placements.
Congratulations to the Senior School AFL team on a Grand Final victory. Every member of the team contributed to this achievement, demonstrating great skill, determination and teamwork. A special congratulations goes to Mazlan Patrick, who was named Best Player.
We also farewell our Haileybury Melbourne exchange students, Tilly Tollfree, Zoe Burgess and Ella Dunlop, as they complete their term-long exchange and return to Melbourne. They embraced every opportunity and made contributions to our school community. They have been a fantastic addition to Senior School and will be greatly missed. In Term 4, we look forward to welcoming back Phoenix Brooke and Emilia Shoniwa following their exchange in Melbourne.
Congratulations also to Oscar Palazzi on his successful trip to Space Camp in the USA—an incredible and memorable experience.
I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday. To our Year 12 students, good luck with your revision and studies. Thank you to our Year 12 teachers, who will conduct revision classes from Sunday to Wednesday during the first week of the holidays.
Kylie Mobilia
Head of Senior School
This term has provided a wonderful balance of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, sporting events and opportunities to connect with communities beyond our own.
A particular highlight has been our involvement in the AFLNT Make Your Mark community visits. Our students have had the opportunity to demonstrate their leadership skills and connect with students from a range of different communities around the Northern Territory. These visits have encouraged students to engage with new people, places and perspectives while building connections beyond the boarding house.
Sport has once again brought plenty of excitement, with students enjoying the opportunity to watch the AFLW Dreamtime match. The occasion provided a great opportunity for students to experience an important celebration of Indigenous culture and the history of Australian football, while also enjoying a high-quality sporting contest with their friends.
Students have also made the most of the range of cultural events taking place across Darwin. Visits to the Darwin Festival and the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair provided opportunities to experience music, performance, art and culture from across Australia, with a particular focus on the richness and diversity of First Nations culture. These experiences continue to complement the strong cultural learning that is an important part of life at Haileybury Rendall School. Some students were even a part of these events, contributing with their artistic talents.
The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets have remained a regular favourite throughout the term, with students making the most of the Dry Season evenings to enjoy the markets, food, entertainment and, of course, the famous Darwin sunsets. More broadly, the Dry Season weather has allowed students to spend plenty of time outdoors, with fishing and swimming continuing to be popular activities. It has been fantastic to see students taking advantage of Darwin's natural environment and enjoying time together outside of the school routine.
Across all of these experiences, our focus has remained on building a connected and supportive boarding community where students feel encouraged to participate, try new things and make the most of the opportunities around them. Whether travelling to a new community, exploring the outdoors, attending a cultural event or simply spending time together at the markets, these experiences play an important role in creating the friendships, confidence and memories that are such an important part of boarding life.
As we look towards the remainder of the year, we are proud of the way our students continue to embrace the opportunities available to them and represent Haileybury Rendall School with enthusiasm and pride.
Tom Ziebell
Head of Boarding
600 Student Nights Under the Stars at Lake ArgyleLast week, the Outdoor Education Department wrapped up an incredible month-long adventure at Lake Argyle, marking the successful completion of our Year 9 Outdoor Education program. Across three weeks, our Year 9 students spent six days immersed in the spectacular Lake Argyle environment. Students journeyed by sea kayak and canoe to remote campsites, where they set up camp, fished for their dinner and cooked meals over the fire. There was plenty of swimming, laughter and encouragement, including many students taking the leap of faith off jump rock. Beyond the adventure and excitement, the program provided students with countless opportunities for growth. Throughout their journey, students developed greater confidence and knowledge in camping, caring for themselves, each other and the environment. They demonstrated incredible resilience, stepped up into leadership roles and strengthened their connections through teamwork, encouragement and shared experiences. Most importantly, students and staff had an absolute blast! The memories, challenges and achievements shared on the water, around the campfire and under the stars will undoubtedly stay with our students for years to come. We would like to extend our enormous thanks to all the staff who contributed to making this experience such a success. Their dedication, energy and commitment made it possible for our Year 9 students to have such a memorable and meaningful experience. What an incredible way to finish Haileybury’s progression of Outdoor Education! Gabrielle Barry |
Mangrove Connections Mural Officially UnveiledHaileybury Rendall School proudly unveiled Mangrove Connections, a collaborative student mural celebrating reconciliation, connection to Country and the strength found in working together. The completed mural is the culmination of a project that began on 27 May, when students from the Reconciliation Action Committee, led by Mr Barker, and the VET Tourism class, led by Mr Johns, participated in a cultural learning experience at East Point with Larrakia Elder Trent Lee. Students learned about the significance of Larrakia Country, participated in traditional activities including spear throwing and fire making, and developed a deeper understanding of Larrakia culture and the continuing connection of Larrakia people to land and sea. Inspired by the stories, landscape and coastline of East Point, students returned to school and participated in a collaborative design workshop. From their ideas, Mangrove Connections was developed, with Miss Polly guiding students through the design and painting process to bring their individual contributions together as one finished mural. The mangrove was chosen as a powerful symbol of connection. Mangrove ecosystems are made up of many interconnected parts, each contributing to the strength, health and wellbeing of the whole. In the same way, reconciliation requires all of us to contribute, listen, learn and work together. This message connects strongly with Haileybury Rendall School's All In philosophy. Everyone belongs, everyone contributes and everyone has a role to play in reconciliation. The unveiling also marks the beginning of a larger vision for the space. Each year, the intention is to add another two painted pillars, gradually creating an evolving outdoor gallery that celebrates reconciliation, connection to Country, diversity and inclusion. Mangrove Connections is a lasting reminder of what can be achieved when students, staff and community come together to listen, learn, create and connect. Polly Johnston |
It has been an incredible year for our talented Year 11 student, Elijza, whose exceptional vocal talent continues to gain recognition beyond Haileybury Rendall School.
Following her standout opening performance at the Darwin Star Gala Ball in May, Elijza caught the attention of Precedent Productions Directors Steve Loe and Chris Jamgotchian and has now been invited to perform at the NT Business Awards in September.
With decades of experience producing and delivering major awards programs across Australia, Steve and Chris were quick to recognise Elijza’s talent, noting that she came “highly recommended.” Their recognition is a wonderful acknowledgement of Elijza’s ability and potential as a performer.
Elijza’s success is also a reflection of her dedication and commitment to developing her craft, supported by the expertise and guidance of her vocal tutor, Ms Weike Li.
We are incredibly proud of Elijza and excited to see where her talent takes her next. Congratulations, Elijza!
Weike Li
Head of Vocal
I recently returned from an incredible 10-day NASA-run space camp program in Huntsville, Alabama. The program was designed to replicate genuine astronaut training activities while exploring the evolution of space technology.
Some of my favourite activities included SCUBA diving, where we learned to compensate for buoyancy to simulate lower-gravity environments, being spun in every direction on the Multi-Axis Trainer, and participating in a simulated manned mission to Mars. I worked in Ground Control, where I was responsible for the calculations required to support the mission. We also built and launched model rockets and designed heat shields.
The campus was home to the world’s largest space museum, which showcased the fascinating history of the Space Race and featured technological giants such as the Saturn V rocket that carried humans to the Moon.
One of the highlights was meeting real astronaut Robert ‘Hoot’ Gibson, who flew several Space Shuttle missions and piloted the first American spacecraft to dock with a Russian space station.
The experience concluded with a graduation ceremony, where I was honoured to receive a scholarship to the University of Alabama in Huntsville to pursue a scientific field of my choice. It was an incredible conclusion to an unforgettable experience.
I highly recommend the program to anyone with an interest in space, science or engineering. It is an experience I will never forget.
Oscar
Year 10 Student
Music Recitals Celebrate Student Skill and DedicationOn 18 and 19 August 2026, our school community came together to celebrate the hard work, dedication and musical achievements of forty talented students across two memorable recital evenings. The first evening highlighted the versatility and artistry of Drums, Woodwind, Piano and Guitar, with students demonstrating their developing technical skills, musicality and confidence through a diverse range of performances. The second evening celebrated the String program, featuring Violin, Viola and Cello students whose performances showcased impressive growth in technique, musicianship and expressive playing. The program featured works by renowned composers and artists including Antonio Vivaldi, Ludwig van Beethoven, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Led Zeppelin. From beloved classics such as Für Elise and Clair de Lune to energetic rock performances, the recitals reflected the wide range of musical interests and talents within our school community. Both evenings were filled with excitement and pride as students shared their music with family, friends and staff. The recitals not only celebrated musical achievement but also highlighted the growth, perseverance and confidence students developed throughout the year. Most importantly, every student who took to the stage demonstrated courage, commitment and determination. Congratulations to all involved on their outstanding performances at the 2026 HRS Musical Recitals, a wonderful celebration of music, learning and student achievement. Ilona Martin |
On Thursday the 10th of September, Alice, Nikita, Abbey and Dylan visited Pearl for the last time for Term 3, which also happened to be R U OK? Day. The session was spent engaging in rich conversations, painting watercolour on canvas and playing Jenga. One highlight of the session was when we first arrived, the residents who were waiting for us, all started smiling and saying “we missed you!” It has been inspiring watching these Year 9 students develop meaningful connections with the residents, and we look forward to returning to Pearl in Term 4. A big thank you to the parents and guardians of these Year 9 students for supporting this initiative.
Phoebe O’Loughlin
Deputy Head of English
Strings ProgramTerm 3 was another highly successful term for the HRS Strings Program, marked by strong student participation, continued musical growth, and outstanding achievements. The confidence, teamwork, and musicianship demonstrated across all ensembles reflect the positive culture and ongoing success of our program. A major highlight was our Book Week performances, including lunchtime concerts and a combined Strings Assembly featuring 49 students performing together. Students performed with confidence and enthusiasm, receiving wonderful feedback from staff and the wider school community. The Year 2 Gold Strings celebrated their first ensemble performance and have made excellent progress in bow hold, posture, arco playing, and ensemble skills. The newly formed Min Min Strings successfully presented their first public performance, demonstrating beautiful legato bowing and accurate pizzicato technique. Marrakai Strings continued developing their repertoire and preparing the exciting work Attack for future performances. Mindil Strings refined their ensemble skills, focusing on musical expression, balance, intonation, and ensemble awareness while preparing for their performance of March of the Titans. Students demonstrated growing confidence, teamwork, and musical maturity throughout the term. Students also benefited from valuable learning opportunities, including masterclasses with members of the Australian Youth Orchestra. We were delighted to welcome Myfanwy Bramble, Head of Strings at Haileybury Melbourne, who worked with students through workshops and rehearsals, providing inspiration and strengthening connections within the wider Haileybury music community. A sincere thank you to my amazing colleagues Rebecca Harris (Cello) and Irene Doucas (Violin/Viola) for their dedication, expertise, and ongoing support. They have played an integral role in the continued growth and success of the HRS Strings Program. We look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead in Term 4. Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable holiday. Sarah Ladd |
A Top End exchange gave visiting students Zoe, Ella and Tilly the confidence to step beyond the familiar, embrace boarding life and discover the strength of the HRS community.
Arriving in Darwin for Term 3, the three Melbourne students were quickly immersed in life at Haileybury Rendall School and its boarding community. What began as an opportunity to experience something different soon became a transformative experience.
Each student was motivated by the chance to challenge themselves. Ella hoped to build independence and develop practical life skills, Zoe was excited to try something new, and Tilly wanted to step outside her comfort zone and experience a different environment.
The students were immediately struck by the warm welcome they received. “Everyone was so welcoming. We have such good friends now because people were genuinely friendly to us,” said Ella. Zoe was equally impressed by Darwin's relaxed atmosphere, while Tilly reflected on how quickly an unfamiliar place could begin to feel like home.
A highlight of the exchange was connecting with students from diverse backgrounds and learning about the unique cultures and communities that make up the Northern Territory. “It has broadened my perspective in a way that could not happen in a classroom,” Ella said. Through boarding life and everyday interactions, the students formed lasting friendships and gained a deeper appreciation for community.
The experience also helped each student grow in confidence. Zoe discovered she was more independent than she realised, while Tilly found she was more adaptable and resilient, saying the exchange taught her to be “comfortable with the uncomfortable” and more confident in unfamiliar situations.
As they prepare to return to Melbourne, Zoe, Ella and Tilly leave Darwin with unforgettable memories, new friendships and a broader understanding of the world around them. Their advice to future exchange students is simple: “Definitely do it. Try something new and go in with an open mind.”
Their final message to their Darwin friends is equally heartfelt: “We will miss you, and we will stay in close contact.”
Brendan Evans
Director of Activities
Rex Barra Winners!After a great qualifying round run, the Haileybury Bloods have claimed the annual Clontarf Rex Barra AFL cup at Sanderson High School. Throughout the course of Term 3, Clontarf academies in Darwin participated in the annual Rex Barra Cup. This is a round-robin AFL competition played after school weekly, leading into a Gala Day with finals in Week 7. Sport is a key pillar of Clontarf, promoting leadership, teamwork, commitment, and healthy lifestyles. The Rex Barra Cup is a great vehicle for these valuable life lessons. Going into the Gala Day at Sanderson High School, Haileybury had taken all before them with wins over Taminmin, Nightcliff, Sanderson, and Rosebery. The team was determined to take out the cup whilst maintaining strong Clontarf spirit and teamwork along the way. With some nervous energy in the air, Game 1 kicked off with Haileybury taking on Dripstone. After a tight opening half, Haileybury kicked away to win by three or four goals. Bradley was a standout performer up forward, kicking a couple of goals and setting up more. Levi was strong down back, and Angelo excelled in the ruck. This win gave the team great confidence! Game 2 pitted Haileybury against Katherine, a perennial strong opponent. Haileybury came out of the blocks strong and quickly established a lead. Elijah, Will, and Caleb led the way in the midfield. Jackson and Sam were a handful for the opposition up forward, while Tyrique anchored the backline. Katherine showed great resilience in the second half to tighten the game up, with Haileybury eventually running out winners by a few goals. The final awaited. It was all on the line against the Rosebery Hawks. The Haileybury Bloods had waited for this moment and played like it, bringing the pressure and spirit that had helped them throughout the tournament. This led to a five-goal win in a very even team effort! James was awarded the Clontarf Spirit for the day for his great mix of skill and sportsmanship. All players contributed to a great effort and celebrated together. |
Early starts, big tackles, plenty of laughs and a buzzer-beating finish the annual Clontarf Staff vs Student Footy Game had it all!
The alarm clocks were ringing at 6am, but there were no complaints as the Clontarf community came together for one of the biggest events on the annual calendar the Clontarf Staff vs Student Footy Game. An awesome 29 staff members turned up ready to represent the staff, while 30 students hit the field, with several more students lining the sidelines to watch, cheer and support their mates.
The game was played with plenty of energy and competitive spirit from the opening bounce. Both teams battled hard, and with the scores locked up late in the game, it all came down to the final moments. Then came the moment the boys talked about a lot! Jaren took a massive mark on Brad, sending the boys into a frenzy, before the game went down to the final buzzer.
With the scores even, Will Brown stepped up and sealed the win with a dramatic buzzer-beating kick, sparking celebrations from the students and sending the staff into heartbreak!
The game was made even more special with Principal Mr. McGregor showing his support from the sidelines. He even joined the staff at half-time to deliver a much-needed pump-up speech, firing the team up for the second half.
After the final siren, everyone headed back to the Clontarf Room for one of the most important parts of the day the famous Clontarf bacon and egg wraps. After an early morning start and a hard-fought game, they were well deserved!
A huge special thanks to Sir Rob, who once again stepped up to umpire our footy game. His commitment to helping make these events happen every year is greatly appreciated.
Thanks to all the staff that supported a successful morning for Haileybury and Clontarf. Looking forward to next year already.
Award winners were
Umpires' MVP: Mazlan
Clontarf Spirit Award: Elijah
Staff MVP: Mr Liam
Brad Ryan
Academy Director
Online news from Haileybury Rendall School
It has been quite a year for the students, staff and families at Haileybury Rendall School (HRS) and the good news keeps coming! We are delighted to share that HRS has been named the Northern Territory’s top-ranked private school in News Corp’s 2026 national school rankings. This recognition reflects a comprehensive assessment of schools across a range of measures, including academic results, NAPLAN, attendance, student-teacher ratios, facilities and subject offerings. While we are incredibly proud of our academic achievements, this recognition represents much more than results. It reflects the dedication of our students, the commitment and expertise of our teachers and staff, and the strong partnership we share with our families. At HRS, our goal is for every student to find the pathway that is right for them, while developing their strengths, confidence and curiosity. Whether through academic pursuits, sport, performing arts, outdoor education, leadership or community service, we want every student to feel known, supported and valued. This achievement, alongside being named Regional School of the Year at the 2026 Australian Education Awards, is a wonderful acknowledgement of the culture and opportunities we have created together. I congratulate and thank every member of our HRS community. This is a collective achievement and one of which we can all be very proud. |
We are delighted to share some more exciting news with the Haileybury Rendall School community: our new Multi-Purpose Games Hall has been approved and construction is about to begin.
This significant new facility will provide our students with an outstanding, year-round space for sport, physical activity and recreation. Importantly, the entire Games Hall will be fully air-conditioned, providing students with a welcome escape from Darwin’s heat and humidity, as well as the heavy rains and challenging conditions of the wet season.
At the centre of the new facility will be a full-size indoor basketball court, complemented by the flexibility to accommodate a wide range of other sports and activities. Students will be able to enjoy netball, indoor soccer, AFL skills and activities, badminton, volleyball and much more—all in a comfortable indoor environment, whatever the weather outside.
It will be available to students from ELC through to Year 12, providing opportunities for Physical Education classes, school sport, training, competitions and recreational activities throughout the school day.
It will also be an especially valuable addition to Boarding life at HRS. Our boarders will have access to a high-quality, air-conditioned sporting and recreational space beyond normal school hours, including evenings and weekends. Together with our day students, they will benefit from a facility that can support activity and engagement throughout the year.
The new Multi-Purpose Games Hall represents an important investment in the future of Haileybury Rendall School and, most importantly, in the health, wellbeing and experience of our students. In Darwin’s unique tropical climate, the ability to provide a large, weatherproof and air-conditioned sporting facility will make an enormous difference.
The facility will also be used for a wide range of non-sporting activities such as examinations, house meetings, assemblies, rehearsals, community events, staff professional learning and a whole lot more.
We look forward to seeing construction commence and to watching this exciting new addition to our campus take shape over the coming months.
Andrew McGregor
Principal
ELC celebrating community engagement.Our Father’s Day event was a wonderful celebration, and it was special to welcome so many of our parents and families. The afternoon was filled with joy, pride and connection as the children delighted everyone with a beautiful performance of three songs for their families. Their enthusiasm and confidence shone through, creating a heart-warming start to the event. Families then enjoyed a magnificent spread of food and drinks, with school siblings joining us for part of the celebration, adding to the warm and inclusive atmosphere. A variety of engaging activities were available for everyone to enjoy, including woodwork, bolt and washer necklaces, card writing, a pamper station, sports, construction experiences and a fun photo booth. These shared experiences created many special moments and highlighted the strong sense of belonging, connection and joy within our Early Learning Centre community. |
This term has also been full of meaningful learning experiences for both our Preschool and Reception children. Our Preschool students have been participating in the St John Ambulance Mini First Aiders program over several weeks, where they have been introduced to the fundamentals of basic first aid and the important role it plays in helping others. It has been a valuable opportunity for the children to build confidence, knowledge and an understanding of how they can care for those around them.
Our Reception children also participated in the St John Ambulance program on a smaller, more hands-on scale. They thoroughly enjoyed dressing up in paramedic costumes and exploring the ambulance to see what it was like inside. This exciting experience brought their learning to life in a practical and memorable way.
All students also took part in the Book Week parade, putting a great deal of effort into their costumes and showing wonderful bravery as they paraded in front of their Junior School peers. It was lovely to see their creativity, confidence and pride on display as they celebrated the joy of reading and storytelling.
To finish off what has been a very busy and exciting term, our children also participated in the cross-country event. Our superstars ran around the oval to the cheers of parents and older students, showing determination, enthusiasm and great spirit. It was a fantastic way to celebrate the end of the term and the many achievements of our students.
We are so proud of all the children for the way they have embraced each opportunity this term with courage, excitement and care for others. It has truly been a term full of connection, learning and joy.
Michelle Shaw
Head of Early Learning Centre
Our Father’s Day Breakfast was a wonderful morning, and it was fantastic to see so many families and special people attend and share this time with our students. Our students have also achieved some outstanding results beyond the classroom. We had two teams compete at the NT Finals of Tournament of Minds, and both teams performed fantastically well. One team won their division and continues to prepare for the International Finals, which will be held at the end of October. We wish them every success! |
Our students also participated in the National Spelling Bee, with a number of students finishing in the National Top Ten. This is an extraordinary achievement! A huge thank you to Mrs Woolley for her dedication to our extension clubs and for providing our students with so many wonderful opportunities to challenge themselves and discover new interests.
This term has also been filled with exciting experiences, including excursions and our inaugural Year 4 sleepover camp, which was highly anticipated and loved by all.
Our House activities have continued to bring great energy and enthusiasm, with Cross Country and House Singing being particular highlights.
I hope you have a wonderful holiday break filled with time to relax, enjoy being together, do the things you love and recharge for a busy and exciting Term 4.
Lisa Doyle
Head of Junior School
For our Year 9 students, the Lake Argyle Camp was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year and represents a pinnacle experience within their Middle School journey. Away from the familiar routines of school, students were challenged to step outside their comfort zones, work alongside one another and embrace the remarkable environment of our region. Experiences such as these are an important part of what we hope Middle School can be: a time for students to discover more about themselves, their peers and the world around them.
Back at school, there has been equally impressive work taking place in classrooms. Across the term, students have engaged in a wide range of assessment for learning, with some outstanding examples of student work shared and celebrated at our Middle School Assembly by our Head of Middle School Teaching and Learning, Brianna Witte. It is important that we continue to create opportunities not simply to recognise achievement, but to celebrate the process behind it — the drafting, persistence, feedback and improvement that allow students to produce work of which they can be genuinely proud. It has also been wonderful to have our Principal visiting many Middle School classrooms throughout the term, observing firsthand the thoughtful teaching, energetic participation and wonderful learning taking place each day.
Creativity was also on display through our Write a Book in a Day competition, which saw students take on the considerable challenge of conceiving, writing and producing an entire book within a single day. The collaboration, imagination and determination shown by our young writers was fantastic and provided another reminder of what students can achieve when given an ambitious challenge and the opportunity to work together.
Our students also embraced Wear It Purple Day, adding a touch of purple to their uniforms, supporting the student bake sale and contributing to our wonderful Colour and Courage Wall. The day provided an opportunity to reinforce a simple but important message within our community: that every young person deserves to feel safe, valued and supported to be themselves.
This term has also seen a renewed focus on our uniform expectations. I have been particularly pleased with the way students have responded. There has been a noticeable improvement across the Middle School, and I thank our students and families for supporting this reset. Uniform is only one small part of school life, but taking pride in how we present ourselves contributes to a broader culture of shared standards, belonging and respect for our community.
As we head into the break, I am grateful for the energy our students continue to bring to Middle School life. I wish all of our Middle School students and families a safe and refreshing break and look forward to continuing this work together in Term 4.
Katherine Ziebell
Head of Middle School
As Term 3 draws to a close, it is wonderful to reflect on another rewarding term in the Senior School. Our Year 12 students have completed their trial examinations and are now entering an important period of revision and preparation. Meanwhile, our Year 10 and Year 11 students have been looking ahead, completing subject selections for their transition into Years 11 and 12.
Our Year 10 students also gained insight into the world of work through their work experience placements.
Congratulations to the Senior School AFL team on a Grand Final victory. Every member of the team contributed to this achievement, demonstrating great skill, determination and teamwork. A special congratulations goes to Mazlan Patrick, who was named Best Player.
We also farewell our Haileybury Melbourne exchange students, Tilly Tollfree, Zoe Burgess and Ella Dunlop, as they complete their term-long exchange and return to Melbourne. They embraced every opportunity and made contributions to our school community. They have been a fantastic addition to Senior School and will be greatly missed. In Term 4, we look forward to welcoming back Phoenix Brooke and Emilia Shoniwa following their exchange in Melbourne.
Congratulations also to Oscar Palazzi on his successful trip to Space Camp in the USA—an incredible and memorable experience.
I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday. To our Year 12 students, good luck with your revision and studies. Thank you to our Year 12 teachers, who will conduct revision classes from Sunday to Wednesday during the first week of the holidays.
Kylie Mobilia
Head of Senior School
This term has provided a wonderful balance of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, sporting events and opportunities to connect with communities beyond our own.
A particular highlight has been our involvement in the AFLNT Make Your Mark community visits. Our students have had the opportunity to demonstrate their leadership skills and connect with students from a range of different communities around the Northern Territory. These visits have encouraged students to engage with new people, places and perspectives while building connections beyond the boarding house.
Sport has once again brought plenty of excitement, with students enjoying the opportunity to watch the AFLW Dreamtime match. The occasion provided a great opportunity for students to experience an important celebration of Indigenous culture and the history of Australian football, while also enjoying a high-quality sporting contest with their friends.
Students have also made the most of the range of cultural events taking place across Darwin. Visits to the Darwin Festival and the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair provided opportunities to experience music, performance, art and culture from across Australia, with a particular focus on the richness and diversity of First Nations culture. These experiences continue to complement the strong cultural learning that is an important part of life at Haileybury Rendall School. Some students were even a part of these events, contributing with their artistic talents.
The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets have remained a regular favourite throughout the term, with students making the most of the Dry Season evenings to enjoy the markets, food, entertainment and, of course, the famous Darwin sunsets. More broadly, the Dry Season weather has allowed students to spend plenty of time outdoors, with fishing and swimming continuing to be popular activities. It has been fantastic to see students taking advantage of Darwin's natural environment and enjoying time together outside of the school routine.
Across all of these experiences, our focus has remained on building a connected and supportive boarding community where students feel encouraged to participate, try new things and make the most of the opportunities around them. Whether travelling to a new community, exploring the outdoors, attending a cultural event or simply spending time together at the markets, these experiences play an important role in creating the friendships, confidence and memories that are such an important part of boarding life.
As we look towards the remainder of the year, we are proud of the way our students continue to embrace the opportunities available to them and represent Haileybury Rendall School with enthusiasm and pride.
Tom Ziebell
Head of Boarding
600 Student Nights Under the Stars at Lake ArgyleLast week, the Outdoor Education Department wrapped up an incredible month-long adventure at Lake Argyle, marking the successful completion of our Year 9 Outdoor Education program. Across three weeks, our Year 9 students spent six days immersed in the spectacular Lake Argyle environment. Students journeyed by sea kayak and canoe to remote campsites, where they set up camp, fished for their dinner and cooked meals over the fire. There was plenty of swimming, laughter and encouragement, including many students taking the leap of faith off jump rock. Beyond the adventure and excitement, the program provided students with countless opportunities for growth. Throughout their journey, students developed greater confidence and knowledge in camping, caring for themselves, each other and the environment. They demonstrated incredible resilience, stepped up into leadership roles and strengthened their connections through teamwork, encouragement and shared experiences. Most importantly, students and staff had an absolute blast! The memories, challenges and achievements shared on the water, around the campfire and under the stars will undoubtedly stay with our students for years to come. We would like to extend our enormous thanks to all the staff who contributed to making this experience such a success. Their dedication, energy and commitment made it possible for our Year 9 students to have such a memorable and meaningful experience. What an incredible way to finish Haileybury’s progression of Outdoor Education! Gabrielle Barry |
Mangrove Connections Mural Officially UnveiledHaileybury Rendall School proudly unveiled Mangrove Connections, a collaborative student mural celebrating reconciliation, connection to Country and the strength found in working together. The completed mural is the culmination of a project that began on 27 May, when students from the Reconciliation Action Committee, led by Mr Barker, and the VET Tourism class, led by Mr Johns, participated in a cultural learning experience at East Point with Larrakia Elder Trent Lee. Students learned about the significance of Larrakia Country, participated in traditional activities including spear throwing and fire making, and developed a deeper understanding of Larrakia culture and the continuing connection of Larrakia people to land and sea. Inspired by the stories, landscape and coastline of East Point, students returned to school and participated in a collaborative design workshop. From their ideas, Mangrove Connections was developed, with Miss Polly guiding students through the design and painting process to bring their individual contributions together as one finished mural. The mangrove was chosen as a powerful symbol of connection. Mangrove ecosystems are made up of many interconnected parts, each contributing to the strength, health and wellbeing of the whole. In the same way, reconciliation requires all of us to contribute, listen, learn and work together. This message connects strongly with Haileybury Rendall School's All In philosophy. Everyone belongs, everyone contributes and everyone has a role to play in reconciliation. The unveiling also marks the beginning of a larger vision for the space. Each year, the intention is to add another two painted pillars, gradually creating an evolving outdoor gallery that celebrates reconciliation, connection to Country, diversity and inclusion. Mangrove Connections is a lasting reminder of what can be achieved when students, staff and community come together to listen, learn, create and connect. Polly Johnston |
It has been an incredible year for our talented Year 11 student, Elijza, whose exceptional vocal talent continues to gain recognition beyond Haileybury Rendall School.
Following her standout opening performance at the Darwin Star Gala Ball in May, Elijza caught the attention of Precedent Productions Directors Steve Loe and Chris Jamgotchian and has now been invited to perform at the NT Business Awards in September.
With decades of experience producing and delivering major awards programs across Australia, Steve and Chris were quick to recognise Elijza’s talent, noting that she came “highly recommended.” Their recognition is a wonderful acknowledgement of Elijza’s ability and potential as a performer.
Elijza’s success is also a reflection of her dedication and commitment to developing her craft, supported by the expertise and guidance of her vocal tutor, Ms Weike Li.
We are incredibly proud of Elijza and excited to see where her talent takes her next. Congratulations, Elijza!
Weike Li
Head of Vocal
I recently returned from an incredible 10-day NASA-run space camp program in Huntsville, Alabama. The program was designed to replicate genuine astronaut training activities while exploring the evolution of space technology.
Some of my favourite activities included SCUBA diving, where we learned to compensate for buoyancy to simulate lower-gravity environments, being spun in every direction on the Multi-Axis Trainer, and participating in a simulated manned mission to Mars. I worked in Ground Control, where I was responsible for the calculations required to support the mission. We also built and launched model rockets and designed heat shields.
The campus was home to the world’s largest space museum, which showcased the fascinating history of the Space Race and featured technological giants such as the Saturn V rocket that carried humans to the Moon.
One of the highlights was meeting real astronaut Robert ‘Hoot’ Gibson, who flew several Space Shuttle missions and piloted the first American spacecraft to dock with a Russian space station.
The experience concluded with a graduation ceremony, where I was honoured to receive a scholarship to the University of Alabama in Huntsville to pursue a scientific field of my choice. It was an incredible conclusion to an unforgettable experience.
I highly recommend the program to anyone with an interest in space, science or engineering. It is an experience I will never forget.
Oscar
Year 10 Student
Music Recitals Celebrate Student Skill and DedicationOn 18 and 19 August 2026, our school community came together to celebrate the hard work, dedication and musical achievements of forty talented students across two memorable recital evenings. The first evening highlighted the versatility and artistry of Drums, Woodwind, Piano and Guitar, with students demonstrating their developing technical skills, musicality and confidence through a diverse range of performances. The second evening celebrated the String program, featuring Violin, Viola and Cello students whose performances showcased impressive growth in technique, musicianship and expressive playing. The program featured works by renowned composers and artists including Antonio Vivaldi, Ludwig van Beethoven, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Led Zeppelin. From beloved classics such as Für Elise and Clair de Lune to energetic rock performances, the recitals reflected the wide range of musical interests and talents within our school community. Both evenings were filled with excitement and pride as students shared their music with family, friends and staff. The recitals not only celebrated musical achievement but also highlighted the growth, perseverance and confidence students developed throughout the year. Most importantly, every student who took to the stage demonstrated courage, commitment and determination. Congratulations to all involved on their outstanding performances at the 2026 HRS Musical Recitals, a wonderful celebration of music, learning and student achievement. Ilona Martin |
On Thursday the 10th of September, Alice, Nikita, Abbey and Dylan visited Pearl for the last time for Term 3, which also happened to be R U OK? Day. The session was spent engaging in rich conversations, painting watercolour on canvas and playing Jenga. One highlight of the session was when we first arrived, the residents who were waiting for us, all started smiling and saying “we missed you!” It has been inspiring watching these Year 9 students develop meaningful connections with the residents, and we look forward to returning to Pearl in Term 4. A big thank you to the parents and guardians of these Year 9 students for supporting this initiative.
Phoebe O’Loughlin
Deputy Head of English
Strings ProgramTerm 3 was another highly successful term for the HRS Strings Program, marked by strong student participation, continued musical growth, and outstanding achievements. The confidence, teamwork, and musicianship demonstrated across all ensembles reflect the positive culture and ongoing success of our program. A major highlight was our Book Week performances, including lunchtime concerts and a combined Strings Assembly featuring 49 students performing together. Students performed with confidence and enthusiasm, receiving wonderful feedback from staff and the wider school community. The Year 2 Gold Strings celebrated their first ensemble performance and have made excellent progress in bow hold, posture, arco playing, and ensemble skills. The newly formed Min Min Strings successfully presented their first public performance, demonstrating beautiful legato bowing and accurate pizzicato technique. Marrakai Strings continued developing their repertoire and preparing the exciting work Attack for future performances. Mindil Strings refined their ensemble skills, focusing on musical expression, balance, intonation, and ensemble awareness while preparing for their performance of March of the Titans. Students demonstrated growing confidence, teamwork, and musical maturity throughout the term. Students also benefited from valuable learning opportunities, including masterclasses with members of the Australian Youth Orchestra. We were delighted to welcome Myfanwy Bramble, Head of Strings at Haileybury Melbourne, who worked with students through workshops and rehearsals, providing inspiration and strengthening connections within the wider Haileybury music community. A sincere thank you to my amazing colleagues Rebecca Harris (Cello) and Irene Doucas (Violin/Viola) for their dedication, expertise, and ongoing support. They have played an integral role in the continued growth and success of the HRS Strings Program. We look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead in Term 4. Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable holiday. Sarah Ladd |
A Top End exchange gave visiting students Zoe, Ella and Tilly the confidence to step beyond the familiar, embrace boarding life and discover the strength of the HRS community.
Arriving in Darwin for Term 3, the three Melbourne students were quickly immersed in life at Haileybury Rendall School and its boarding community. What began as an opportunity to experience something different soon became a transformative experience.
Each student was motivated by the chance to challenge themselves. Ella hoped to build independence and develop practical life skills, Zoe was excited to try something new, and Tilly wanted to step outside her comfort zone and experience a different environment.
The students were immediately struck by the warm welcome they received. “Everyone was so welcoming. We have such good friends now because people were genuinely friendly to us,” said Ella. Zoe was equally impressed by Darwin's relaxed atmosphere, while Tilly reflected on how quickly an unfamiliar place could begin to feel like home.
A highlight of the exchange was connecting with students from diverse backgrounds and learning about the unique cultures and communities that make up the Northern Territory. “It has broadened my perspective in a way that could not happen in a classroom,” Ella said. Through boarding life and everyday interactions, the students formed lasting friendships and gained a deeper appreciation for community.
The experience also helped each student grow in confidence. Zoe discovered she was more independent than she realised, while Tilly found she was more adaptable and resilient, saying the exchange taught her to be “comfortable with the uncomfortable” and more confident in unfamiliar situations.
As they prepare to return to Melbourne, Zoe, Ella and Tilly leave Darwin with unforgettable memories, new friendships and a broader understanding of the world around them. Their advice to future exchange students is simple: “Definitely do it. Try something new and go in with an open mind.”
Their final message to their Darwin friends is equally heartfelt: “We will miss you, and we will stay in close contact.”
Brendan Evans
Director of Activities
Rex Barra Winners!After a great qualifying round run, the Haileybury Bloods have claimed the annual Clontarf Rex Barra AFL cup at Sanderson High School. Throughout the course of Term 3, Clontarf academies in Darwin participated in the annual Rex Barra Cup. This is a round-robin AFL competition played after school weekly, leading into a Gala Day with finals in Week 7. Sport is a key pillar of Clontarf, promoting leadership, teamwork, commitment, and healthy lifestyles. The Rex Barra Cup is a great vehicle for these valuable life lessons. Going into the Gala Day at Sanderson High School, Haileybury had taken all before them with wins over Taminmin, Nightcliff, Sanderson, and Rosebery. The team was determined to take out the cup whilst maintaining strong Clontarf spirit and teamwork along the way. With some nervous energy in the air, Game 1 kicked off with Haileybury taking on Dripstone. After a tight opening half, Haileybury kicked away to win by three or four goals. Bradley was a standout performer up forward, kicking a couple of goals and setting up more. Levi was strong down back, and Angelo excelled in the ruck. This win gave the team great confidence! Game 2 pitted Haileybury against Katherine, a perennial strong opponent. Haileybury came out of the blocks strong and quickly established a lead. Elijah, Will, and Caleb led the way in the midfield. Jackson and Sam were a handful for the opposition up forward, while Tyrique anchored the backline. Katherine showed great resilience in the second half to tighten the game up, with Haileybury eventually running out winners by a few goals. The final awaited. It was all on the line against the Rosebery Hawks. The Haileybury Bloods had waited for this moment and played like it, bringing the pressure and spirit that had helped them throughout the tournament. This led to a five-goal win in a very even team effort! James was awarded the Clontarf Spirit for the day for his great mix of skill and sportsmanship. All players contributed to a great effort and celebrated together. |
Early starts, big tackles, plenty of laughs and a buzzer-beating finish the annual Clontarf Staff vs Student Footy Game had it all!
The alarm clocks were ringing at 6am, but there were no complaints as the Clontarf community came together for one of the biggest events on the annual calendar the Clontarf Staff vs Student Footy Game. An awesome 29 staff members turned up ready to represent the staff, while 30 students hit the field, with several more students lining the sidelines to watch, cheer and support their mates.
The game was played with plenty of energy and competitive spirit from the opening bounce. Both teams battled hard, and with the scores locked up late in the game, it all came down to the final moments. Then came the moment the boys talked about a lot! Jaren took a massive mark on Brad, sending the boys into a frenzy, before the game went down to the final buzzer.
With the scores even, Will Brown stepped up and sealed the win with a dramatic buzzer-beating kick, sparking celebrations from the students and sending the staff into heartbreak!
The game was made even more special with Principal Mr. McGregor showing his support from the sidelines. He even joined the staff at half-time to deliver a much-needed pump-up speech, firing the team up for the second half.
After the final siren, everyone headed back to the Clontarf Room for one of the most important parts of the day the famous Clontarf bacon and egg wraps. After an early morning start and a hard-fought game, they were well deserved!
A huge special thanks to Sir Rob, who once again stepped up to umpire our footy game. His commitment to helping make these events happen every year is greatly appreciated.
Thanks to all the staff that supported a successful morning for Haileybury and Clontarf. Looking forward to next year already.
Award winners were
Umpires' MVP: Mazlan
Clontarf Spirit Award: Elijah
Staff MVP: Mr Liam
Brad Ryan
Academy Director
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.
© Haileybury Rendall School 2026 Compliance
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