From the Headmaster
When I Grow Up: A Celebration of Promise and Purpose
When I Grow Up: A Celebration of Promise and Purpose
Dear Parents, Students, and Members of Our School Community,
While none of us can say for sure what our children will become when they grow up , if this term’s musical production is anything to go by, their future is filled with promise, talent, and purpose.
Yesterday’s performance was more than just an evening of entertainment, it was a celebration of our students' creativity, commitment, and courage. When I Grow Up gave us a glimpse into their dreams, their hard work, and their ability to come together in pursuit of something greater than themselves.
From the earliest rehearsals to the final curtain call, this production has been a shining example of what happens when a community unites around Truth, Excellence, and Service. Our students poured themselves into every line, lyric, and leap, supported by a remarkable team of teachers, parents, and volunteers who gave generously of their time and gifts.
I want to give special thanks to Mr Palmer, our brilliant Director, whose leadership and creative vision brought this production to life. A heartfelt thank you also goes to Ms Li and Mr Clipsham for their extraordinary work in developing the musical gifts of our students, not just for this production, but every day through their ongoing commitment to music and the arts at our school.
As we reflect, I’m reminded of 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms.” This musical was a living illustration of that verse, every role, every note, every brushstroke on the set served to uplift others.
To our students—thank you for dreaming boldly and performing beautifully. To our staff, thank you for guiding with wisdom and passion. And to our parents, thank you for cheering from the sidelines and supporting each step of the journey.
We are proud of what our students have achieved this term, in the classroom, on the stage, and in the community. May we continue to grow together, nurturing every gift and encouraging one another in the journey ahead.
With gratitude,
Louis Stringer
Headmaster
Kindergarten
Monkey Baa Drama Workshops
Monkey Baa Drama Workshops
Monkey Baa Theatre Company is one of Australia’s leading professional theatre companies for young people. They offer engaging drama workshops designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and develop key performance skills such as improvisation, character movement, and storytelling. Led by experienced teaching artists, these workshops are delivered directly in classrooms, making them both accessible and inspiring for students.
At the start of Term 2, our Kindergarten and Stage One students had the opportunity to participate in one of these workshops, presented by actor Teale Howie from the Monkey Baa Theatre Company. Looking ahead, Kindergarten students will continue their connection with Monkey Baa in Term 3, when they travel to the Orange Civic Theatre to see a live performance of Josephine Wants to Dance .
During the sessions, students were challenged to step into their ‘actor minds’ and explore what it’s like to be an actor. Each workshop began with body and vocal warm-ups, followed by the chance to act and move like different animals. Students also used their bodies to create and represent imaginative scenes, such as a zoo or a jungle—bringing their ideas to life through movement and expression.
It was a joyful learning experience that promoted creativity, confidence, collaboration, and lots of laughter!
Please enjoy some images below, and some quotes about what students thought about the experience.
Bada - My favourite part was making a zoo scene with my friends.
Louis M - My favourite was when we acted like motorbikes.
Harley - I enjoyed acting out the games with my friends, it was super fun.
Eniola - The best part was when we pretended we were in a balloon. It was so fun and then we got to pop it!! It made me feel so happy.
Piper - I was so excited to act out the animals in the zoo. I was a tiger!!!
Gracie - I liked that the energy ball was getting bigger and bigger and then smaller and smaller.
Eddie - I liked it when I was a tiger.
Greta - I liked it when I ate the (imaginary) energy ball.
William - I liked when Teale ate the energy ball.
Sarah - I liked it when I was a pancake rock.
Amelia - I liked everything.
Amity - I felt a bit nervous and I was excited by the end.
Mrs Michelle Pearson
Kindergarten Coordinator
Primary School
Semester 1 Reports and the Common Grade Scale
Semester 1 Reports and the Common Grade Scale
Semester 1 reports will be circulated early next week. Please take the time to read and discuss your child’s report with them. Primary School Parent-Teacher meetings will be held on Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th July from 4 - 7pm. A link to book an appointment will be sent early next week.
Each student progresses at their own pace, and the grades that your child receives in their report reflect their current level of achievement, not effort or potential. If you have any questions about your child’s progress or report, please be sure to book a meeting with your child’s teacher in Week 2.
Primary School Term 2 Reflections
As we draw the curtain on another jam-packed term of learning and fun, we want to thank our students, families and staff for their enthusiasm, energy, and commitment throughout these past ten weeks. The cold weather didn’t slow us down!
A huge highlight was, of course, yesterday’s school musical, ‘When I Grow Up.’ As Joaquin O put it, “Each class has tried their particular best to succeed in making the adults happy with the musical!” Evelyn D loved “how the musical was put together and how everyone memorised their dance or lines so well,” while Ellah C shared, “I love to dance and it was so fun watching everybody do their singing.” Emilia H added, “I really liked how we all got to be included, and obviously the costumes were great!”
From centre stage to the sports field, it’s been a term of action. Raavi S shared, “I’ve enjoyed all the fun PE games we play and the running laps. My favourite game is survival tag!” In the classroom, students explored interesting topics. Rory T reflected on “learning about forests and deserts,” while Charith T loved science: “We learned about clouds, and my favourite part was learning how weather could change.” Wynonna R shared her knowledge too: “I’ve learnt about data, capacity and volume. It’s important because you use data for lots of things.”
Creativity thrived, where students had the freedom to dream, design and build. Evie R and Sophie M loved “using materials you usually throw in the bin for Waste to Art. It was a fun opportunity to be creative and do whatever we want.” Steph B and Charlotte A agreed: “You got to build whatever you want and combine everyone’s suggestions.”
Throughout the term, friendships, learning, and laughter remained at the heart of school life. Ella L shared, “I loved learning with my class, having fun at lunchtime, and writing persuasive texts because it made people think about my opinions!”
As we wrap up the term, I want to thank all our students for their hard work, their enthusiasm for school life, and their smiles. As teachers, we’re incredibly proud of what each of you has achieved this term.
I would like to wish all our families a safe and restorative holiday, filled with rest, adventure and time with loved ones. We look forward to welcoming you back next term, ready for more exciting learning and new memories to be made.
Alice Glyde
Director of Primary
George’s Marvellous Medicine
George’s Marvellous Medicine
Stage 2 students from OAGS had a great time at Orange Civic Theatre watching Shake and Stir’s production of Roald Dahl’s George’s Marvellous Medicine . The show was funny, fast paced and full of clever effects that kept everyone entertained. The students were hooked from the start, laughing along and enjoying the way George’s wild plan to deal with his grumpy grandma played out on stage. After the performance, the cast stayed to answer questions. Our students asked thoughtful questions about what it is like to be an actor, how they prepare for a show and how they make the special effects work. The actors helped students see what goes into putting a production together, which had everyone even more excited for our own Primary Musical, When I Grow Up . The behaviour of our students was excellent. They showed interest, listened well and made us proud. It was a fun morning out and we are already looking forward to our next theatre visit, this time for our own show.
Stage 2 Teachers
Year 4 Shines at Waste 2 Art
Year 4 Shines at Waste 2 Art
Year 4 students proudly represented our school at the 2025 Waste 2 Art Community Art Exhibition at Orange City Library. The theme, Year of Toys , sparked some incredibly creative projects. A huge congratulations to Maddie B, who won the People’s Choice Award for her brilliant Octopus Mobile. Visitors loved the colour, movement and clever way she used recycled materials to bring her idea to life.
From start to finish, students shared ideas, helped each other and encouraged one another as their projects took shape. Their enthusiasm made the whole experience fun and rewarding.
On the Friday evening before the exhibition, the P & F facilitated a school art night where families could see all the wonderful creations. It was a great way to celebrate the hard work of our young artists. We are also very grateful to Mr Palmer, who drove the bus to drop off all the artworks safely at the library.
We’re so proud of the creativity, teamwork and care shown by Year 4. It was fantastic to see their ideas on display for the community to enjoy.
Allie Downie
Year 4 Teacher
Year 6 English - Rabbit, Soldier, Angel, Thief
Year 6 English - Rabbit, Soldier, Angel, Thief
“My name is Sasha… I am a soldier now. A real one. I have a gun and everything.”
With these heart-wrenching words, readers are plunged into the life of Sasha, a six-year-old orphan caught in the midst of war. This powerful opening has captivated our Year 6 students, forming the foundation of our English unit centred around Rabbit, Soldier, Angel, Thief by Katrina Nannestad.
Set during the turmoil of World War II in Russia, this moving novel has given students a rich context in which to explore the textual concepts of characterisation and narrative. Through close reading and discussion, students have examined how characters are brought to life — through their appearance, words, thoughts, and actions, and how relationships between characters deepen a reader’s emotional connection to the story.
The unit has encouraged both analytical thinking and creative expression. Students have crafted imaginative responses including diary entries, heartfelt letters, and metaphorical pieces titled ‘My Village’, where internal feelings are expressed through symbolic landscapes. These writing tasks have drawn on students’ historical understanding as well as their growing knowledge of narrative structure and character development.
Literacy skills such as reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation have all been seamlessly integrated into this unit. As students navigate unfamiliar settings and emotionally complex content, they have strengthened their ability to infer, empathise, and articulate deeper meanings within a text.
Although we are only halfway through the novel, Sasha’s story has already made a deep impact on our learners. His bravery, innocence, and resilience in the face of unimaginable hardship have sparked meaningful discussions and thoughtful writing.
We are excited to continue this journey into next term as students uncover more of Sasha’s story. Alongside this article, you’ll find a display of student work—each piece offering a glimpse into the emotional and creative growth this powerful text has inspired in our Year 6 cohort.
Year 6 Teachers
Secondary School
Year 9 Camp Report – Lake Macquarie Adventure
Year 9 Camp Report – Lake Macquarie Adventure
In Week 5, our Year 9 students set off for their outdoor education camp at Lake Macquarie. The journey up on the coach was full of energy. Music, snacks, and good conversation helped pass the time as we travelled north. On arrival, students quickly settled in and were eager to get stuck into the activities.
Throughout camp, students took on a variety of challenges that helped them grow in confidence and connection. A major highlight was the zip line, which saw students (and some staff) flying through the trees, pushing past fears, and encouraging one another. The weather was especially kind on Day 3, creating perfect conditions for our water activities. Sailing across the lake under blue skies was a favourite for many. Canoeing and fishing also offered a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature, bond with peers, and slow down.
Importantly, camp was also a time of Christian discovery. Through daily devotions, small group discussions, and quiet moments by the lake, students were encouraged to reflect on the world around them and the wonder of God's creation.
Students returned home tired, sun-touched, and full of stories. We’re proud of how they represented themselves and their year group participating with enthusiasm, supporting one another, and making the most of every experience.
Take a moment to enjoy some of the highlights from camp.
Tate, Adelaidaie, Joel and Ana - The Inspire Collective (Year 9 Leadership Team)
Year 10 Camp
Year 10 Camp
Year 10 students recently embarked on the Urban Challenge Camp, a dynamic, multi-day adventure designed to foster independence, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving skills in the heart of Sydney.
Throughout the camp, students stayed at various YHA hostels across the city and spent a memorable night camping in tents on Cockatoo Island, where they braved the island's blustery conditions and got to partake in a ‘silent disco’ where each student had their own set of headphones and different songs played for different groups. Very entertaining to watch, and not very silent..
The program immersed students in Sydney's vibrant culture and landmarks. They navigated the city using public transport, solved clues, managed budgets, and planned meals for their teams. Evenings were filled with activities like ten-pin bowling and ferry rides across the Harbour, offering stunning views of the city illuminated by the Vivid Sydney festival.
Students also participated in activities such as surfing lessons and team challenges, all designed to enhance their collaborative and leadership skills.
Overall, the Urban Challenge Camp provided Year 10 students with a unique opportunity to explore Sydney, develop essential life skills, and create lasting memories with their peers.
Faith at OAGS
A Term of Growing and Living the Fruits of the Spirit
A Term of Growing and Living the Fruits of the Spirit
Throughout the term in our Primary and Secondary Chapels we have explored the Fruits of the Spirit as written in Galatians 5:22-23.
Exploring each of the fruits,(love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control) has been a great reminder that these are evidence of a life centred in Jesus.
As we discussed, sang and listened to the bible’s teaching on these fruits, we continued to remind ourselves that when we have a relationship with Jesus, these fruits are seen in our life as the Holy Spirit is living and active. The constant challenge is to remind ourselves that we can strive all we want to display these fruits, but our own work is never going to be enough. It is only through the Holy Spirit within us that these fruits remain active and we can display God at work in our lives.
For parents of Infants and Primary, feel free to ask your children about the “Fruits of the Spirit” Song by Uncle Charlie that we have been learning together - it has been a lot of fun.
For parents in Secondary, ask your teenagers what did Mr Clipsham show us as an example of Jesus drinking our cup of ‘poisoned milk’ and how does this relate to the Holy Spirit now active within us?
This week the Chaplaincy team says farewell to Miss Annique Botta, who steps into an exciting new role in Sydney next term before being married in September. We are incredibly sad to see her move, but excited for the opportunity ahead as she continues sharing Jesus boldly and passionately with her new school community.
As our school heads into a few weeks of ‘break’ we are praying for each of you, our school families, that you may experience God’s work in your own lives through reading and discovering Him, knowing and believing in Him, and seeing the Holy Spirit at work as you display these fruits.
Tabatha Reed, Mel Holding, Annique Botta and James Esson
Chaplaincy Team
CAPA
Visual Arts
Visual Arts
Visual Arts
Year 8 Visual Arts students are enjoying exploring imagining into genetically altered creatures. They have drawn their own morphed animals that they have animated and are currently sculpting these into ceramic sculptures.
Sport
Thank you for our Sponsors
Thank you for our Sponsors
We express gratitude for their support:
CBS Industries -Brazzo Civils - Orange Real Estate - Bencer and Hazelnut - Pigot's Midwestern Mini Mix
252 ACU- Cadets
Community News
July School Holiday Programs
July School Holiday Programs
As we approach the school holidays, we would like to make families aware of a number of local programs available to keep students active, engaged, and entertained during the break.
Some excellent options running in our area include:
- PCYC Orange : Offering a wide range of sport, recreation, and activity-based programs for all age groups. More information and enrolments available at pcycnsw.org.au/orange
- Central West Gymsports : Providing fun and challenging gymnastics-based holiday sessions. Follow their updates and session info via Central West Gym Facebook
- Aspire OSHC – Bletchington PS : A quality vacation care service offering themed days and activities tailored for primary-aged children. Visit aspire-oshc.com.au to view the holiday program schedule and secure a place.
We encourage families to explore these fantastic options and register early, as places may be limited. These programs are a great way for students to stay active and connected to their peers over the break.
Schoolies
Schoolies
Enrolments
Enrolments
Trail Closures at Glenwood
Trail Closures at Glenwood
There's currently areas of Glenwood Forest closed for harvesting. For everyone's safety, and to help maintain mountain bikers access with Forestry, it's important everyone stays out of these areas.
The north of the forest is closed, bottom of Trail of Awesomeness and Galinbundinya. The majority of trails are still open, with access via Mitchells way and parking in the gravity event centre.
Orange Mountain Bike Club
OAGS Classifieds
Orange Indoor Tennis Academy
Orange Indoor Tennis Academy
Kid's Club
Kid's Club
Chess Tournament
Chess Tournament
