Chalkdust Torture

July 2, 2026

St Joseph's Catholic School

Well done Matt

Joseph Congratulations to MattJoseph Rounds who trialled for the Rugby League Polding team last week. He played so well, even scored a try, and should be so proud of his efforts and dedication to the sport. MattJoseph then went on to play in a small schools Rugby Gala day in Orange with the St. Phil’s team. A big thank you to Mr. Parslow and the boys who invited and included Matt for this sporting day. They won 3 out of the 4 games and came 3rd overall on the day. Congratulations Matt.

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Around the Rooms - Year 5

What a busy and exciting term Year 5 have had! We have been busy with sport, learning, and adventures into high school.

We started the term with our Athletics Carnival, where everyone participated amazingly. We have several students who are still eagerly waiting to find out if they have made it through to the next round of the Eastern Region competition.

In Science, students have been exploring microplastics and the impact they have on our environment. All students had the opportunity to design and create an invention that could assist in keeping microplastics out of our waterways and landfill. Every single invention passed the test, and students were thrilled to see their creations work effectively. Every Year 5 student should be incredibly proud of their efforts throughout this collaborative experiment.

In Mathematics, we have been learning how to use protractors to measure and identify different angles, exploring the properties of 2D and 3D shapes, and have now begun looking at data and the variety of graphs that can be used to represent information.

Abbey, our school counsellor, has been running some fantastic team-building workshops with our class to help prepare students for their leadership opportunities next year. These workshops have been a wonderful way for students to build teamwork skills, strengthen relationships, and, of course, enjoy a little snack and fun along the way!

Last but not least, all of our Year 5 students had the opportunity to experience high school life at Stannies and Mackillop. Both schools provided a range of engaging and fun activities for our students. It was an enjoyable experience and gave students a taste of what is to come in the future.

It has been a term full of curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. We are incredibly proud of the way our Year 5 students are engaging with their learning, supporting one another, and continuing to grow.

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Around the Rooms - Year 6

What a fantastic term it has been in Year 6! We've been busy learning, creating, experimenting and making plenty of memories along the way.

In Science, students became young electricians as they built and tested their own circuits, lighting up bulbs and discovering how electricity works. Our creative talents were also on full display as we designed stunning digital artworks and crafted colourful African-inspired paper bead necklaces.

The cold winter mornings didn't stop us! Students enjoyed warming up with a cup of Milo while watching Behind the News, sparking thoughtful discussions about events happening around Australia and the world.

In English, we travelled along the Murray River through our imaginations, writing engaging stories filled with adventure, descriptive language and creative ideas.

One of the highlights of the term was our sports rotations. Students enthusiastically participated in a variety of activities, with tennis and martial arts proving to be clear favourites! There was also plenty of excitement at the Wellbeing Dance Party, where Year 6 certainly knew how to be the centre of attention and brought incredible energy, enthusiasm and some impressive dance moves to the celebration.

Year 6 has embraced every opportunity to learn, laugh and challenge themselves this term. We are incredibly proud of the effort, enthusiasm and positive attitude our students bring to the classroom each day and can't wait to see what Term 3 has in store!

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Oberon High School

SWE Assembly

On June 29 we held our school assembly, featuring a special appearance by Benny . House points were announced: Abercrombie leading with 4,491 points, Werong with 3,531 points and Tuglow with 3,526 points. Congratulations to Abercrombie . Other awards during assembly were:

100% attendance during Term 2
Kind Citizen
Drones and Agriculture completion certificates

Well done to everyone who demonstrated excellent commitment to their studies.

Fiona Abbott | Deputy Principal

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Creative Chairs

Our Stage 6 Visual Design students have designed chairs inspired by an incredible range of themes, from the world of Willy Wonka to the colourful adventures of Adventure Time . These imaginative pieces showcase their ability to blend creativity, storytelling, and design skills.

Fiona Loeb | TAS Teacher

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Future Pathways

Stage 5 OPAL students recently enjoyed an exciting excursion to Stewart Street Veterinary Hospital, Bunnings, and the Bathurst Fire and Rescue Station to explore a range of potential career pathways. Throughout the day, students gained valuable insights into the daily responsibilities of veterinary nurses , firefighters, and other professionals, while asking questions and learning about the skills required in each role. It was a fantastic opportunity to experience different workplaces and discover future career possibilities .

Georgia Fait | Teacher

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Oberon Public School

Learning Walks

Last week we opened our classrooms to Blayney Public School. Staff came to observe the great teaching and learning happening within our school. BPS staff were very impressed after talking with our students about their learning including learning intentions and success criteria, the third teacher resources in classrooms and individual learning goals. Our students articulated what they are learning, how they are going, how they know and where to go for help. Every student who was spoken to, from Kindergarten to Year 6, articulated their learning journey beautifully. Your children are getting the best education at Oberon Public School.

Jo'elle Frampton I Principal

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And so it begins

Artist Calum Hotham has begun his work around the grounds of OPS. Calum is a highly skilled, self-taught Australian mural artist and painter, and is celebrated for bringing vibrant, community-focused art and murals to NSW. Our students are mesmerized as they watch their playground transform. Watch this space to see the completed artworks by Calum Artist

Jo'elle Frampton | Principal

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Attendance Acknowledgement

OPS students celebrated with a whole school attendance acknowledgement, enjoying ice cream cones at break time. Students are recognised for their ongoing attendance at school. We aim for students to attend 90% or more of the time. Congratulations to all the students for their hard work.

Opsie Owl

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Calum Artist

We are very excited to show you the artwork so far. Calum and Adam have done an amazing job beautifying our school. Students are so happy with the results so far. The vibrant colours and creative designs have transformed the top playground, creating a welcoming and inspiring environment for everyone. Staff and visitors have also commented on how the artwork brightens the school and contributes to a positive atmosphere. We look forward to sharing more updates and seeing how this project continues to enhance our school community.

Jo'elle Frampton | Principal

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Hampton Public School

As Term 2 nears its conclusion, the Special Assembly today brought together parents, grandparents, and special guest Mrs Hughes, recognising students' exceptional accomplishments and bid a fond farewell to Mrs Arkley-Smith upon her retirement.

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O'Connell Public School

Compass Festival

Congratulations to our Choir and Recorder ensemble who performed at the Compass Music Festival last Thursday in Orange. You were sensational!!

Trish Forsyth | Proud Principal

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