Kindergarten
Travelbugs Mobile MiniBeasts Visit Kindergarten
Travelbugs Mobile MiniBeasts Visit Kindergarten
This week, Kindergarten were treated to a very special incursion from Travelbugs Mobile MiniBeasts . Jacqui Love, the owner and founder, brought her fascinating collection of living invertebrates and preserved specimens to share with our students. Travelbugs is an educational program designed to inspire curiosity about the natural world, allowing children to experience mini beasts up close in a safe and engaging way.
During the information session, Jacqui impressed us with her extensive knowledge and passion for invertebrates. Students listened intently and asked many thoughtful questions to deepen their understanding of this special group of living things. There were moments of awe as Jacqui introduced us to a net-casting spider , a giant huntsman , a very large centipede , and even some preserved venomous spiders.
Each class then participated in a hands-on discovery workshop, where children had the chance to gently interact with friendly mini beasts. Highlights included holding a titan stick insect or a spiky leaf insect , touching a rainbow stag beetle , and even letting a millipede crawl along their hands! These unique experiences gave our students the opportunity to observe mini beasts closely, notice their special features, and overcome any initial fears with curiosity and excitement.
Jacqui also encouraged the children to become thoughtful observers of nature. She reminded us that while it is wonderful to watch insects and spiders in their natural habitats, it is important not to touch or pick them up in the wild. Her visit was a perfect way to extend our learning in Science, supporting our focus on living things and their needs.
After our hands-on session, students took time to reflect on their experience by choosing one of the mini beasts to draw and then paint. They also wrote a sentence to describe their chosen creature, capturing their new learning and observations in both words and pictures.
We are very grateful to Jacqui and Travelbugs Mobile MiniBeasts for such a memorable experience. The children left inspired, curious, and eager to share their new discoveries about the amazing mini beasts that live all around us.
Mrs Pearson and the Kindergarten Team
Primary School
Year 5 Science: Gelato Time!
Year 5 Science: Gelato Time!
This term, Year 5 students have been diving into the world of science with a delicious twist through their unit Gelato Time! Students have been busy exploring the states of matter and discovering the difference between a mixture and a compound, all while enjoying some hands-on experiments.
To complete their investigations, the Sunstones and Moonstones joined together to conduct a variety of experiments to support and strengthen their developing knowledge. A highlight was making (and eating) rocky road. In this activity, students observed the effects of temperature on different ingredients and discussed whether the final product was a mixture or a compound. They enjoyed working in groups to combine a variety of materials to test whether they would react to form a compound or remain separate as a mixture. Students discovered that bicarbonate of soda and vinegar form a compound, as the reaction creates fizzing and bubbling, while oil and water remain a mixture, as they can be separated.
These engaging activities not only developed students’ scientific understanding but also prepared them for the exciting challenge ahead: designing their very own gelato flavour. With creativity, curiosity and plenty of enthusiasm, Year 5 are well on their way to becoming budding scientists and gelato experts.
Year 5 Teachers
Miss Molly Collins and Miss Stephanie Harrison
Jump Rope For Heart
Jump Rope For Heart
Our school community has raised an impressive $20 314 for Jump Rope for Heart, placing us 5th for fundraising efforts nationally. Skipping has quickly become a favourite activity, with many students bringing their own ropes and enjoying it during break times.
Stage 2 students are also taking part in PE lessons, learning new skipping skills and building confidence as they practise. Skipping is more than just fun. It boosts fitness, strengthens the heart, and improves coordination.
The enthusiasm across the playground shows how much students are enjoying this activity. We look forward to celebrating their efforts on Jump Rope for Heart Day , 19 September 2025.
Mrs Downie on behalf of Jump Rope for Heart
Direct Instruction and Guided Practice: Why Does it Matter in Mathematics Lessons?
Direct Instruction and Guided Practice: Why Does it Matter in Mathematics Lessons?
Students learn best when teaching is clear, purposeful, and supportive. That’s why explicit teaching is a common teaching strategy used in the classroom, particularly in Mathematics. Each Mathematics lesson begins with a clear learning intention so students know exactly what they will be learning throughout the lesson. Teachers share the goals for the lesson, explain why the learning matters, and show students what success looks like. This clarity gives students direction and helps them stay focused on what they are learning throughout the lesson.
Explicit teaching breaks skills into small, manageable steps, with teachers modelling the strategies and thinking aloud. Guided practice follows, where teachers and students work through problems together. Teachers check for understanding, provide instant feedback, and support students until they are confident enough to complete the tasks independently.
As part of our work in the Primary Numeracy Project, teachers have been opening their practice to professional growth. Lessons have been observed live or recorded on video, then carefully analysed to refine instructional practice. Teachers have been highly receptive to feedback and eager to strengthen their teaching even further. The calibre of our teachers is high, and I have been deeply impressed by the level of student engagement during these lessons.
Alice Glyde
Director of Primary
When I Grow Up’ Recording Sales
When I Grow Up’ Recording Sales
Many people have been eagerly waiting, and the time is finally here. The recording of OAGS’ 2025 production of ‘When I Grow Up’ is finally ready to be purchased!
Copies are being sold for $15 and can be purchased through Flexischools. To order your copy, log in to your Flexischools account, select payments, your child’s name and then ‘Student Activities’ to find the option to purchase your copy.
Orders will be processed at the end of each week, and you will receive an email containing the link to the recording for you to download.
Orders must be placed before the end of the term.
Mr Kyle Palmer
Primary Musical Director/Producer
Secondary School
Year 12 DT Major Project
Year 12 DT Major Project
For some courses in the HSC, students complete practical exams in the form of projects, submitted works and performances. These assessments are often a year in the making and provide students of these courses with the benefit that their HSC examination does not all come down to one exam but that the mark is split over different tasks.
In Year 12, Design and Technology students undertake a design brief of their own choosing and work through a comprehensive design process that includes significant testing, prototyping, research and modification as they develop and refine their ideas. The HSC requires that students thoroughly document every step in the design process in an 80 page portfolio and this is marked alongside the finished project with sample prototypes by the markers. Our Year 12 students should be very proud of the work they have put into the project and we wish them the very best as they await their overall mark for Design and Technology. Here are some photographs of Benjamin P, Mitchell W and Patrick W with their projects.
Looking Ahead: New Syllabuses for 2026
Looking Ahead: New Syllabuses for 2026
From 2026, new syllabuses will be introduced across NSW schools, including Year 7–10 Science, Year 7–8 Technology, Extension History, Year 11–12 English, Year 11–12 Mathematics, Year 9–10 Drama, and Year 7–10 Music.
At Orange Anglican Grammar School, we are well prepared and excited about these changes. Curriculum updates reflect the latest research, new technologies, and the skills students need for the future. Our community can be confident that we are ready to implement these new programs smoothly, maintaining the high standards our students are accustomed to.
Our teachers bring strong experience in adapting to syllabus changes, including the recent updates to English and Mathematics programs. This expertise ensures a confident transition in 2026, with teaching programs designed to engage students and support learning outcomes.
The new syllabuses bring exciting opportunities for our students. In Science and Technology, students will focus on inquiry, problem-solving, and applying knowledge to real-world challenges. Music and Drama programs will offer fresh creative and collaborative experiences, while Extension History provides senior students with opportunities for in-depth investigation and analysis, strengthening academic rigour.
In English and Mathematics, updated programs will continue to build strong foundational skills, equipping students for future study and life beyond school. Our faculties are preparing thoughtfully to deliver programs that are both innovative and effective, keeping student achievement at the forefront.
Planning and professional learning are already underway. Our staff are collaborating across faculties to ensure all teaching programs are ready well before the 2026 rollout. We are also committed to keeping families informed, providing clear guidance about the changes and the benefits for student learning.
At Orange Anglican Grammar School, we are dedicated to nurturing knowledge, skills, and character in every student. The 2026 syllabuses align beautifully with this vision, offering new opportunities to challenge and inspire learners.
Mr Tim Brown
Director of Secondary
CAPA
Creative & Performing Arts at OAGS
Creative & Performing Arts at OAGS
It has been a huge couple of weeks for the Creative & Performing Arts at OAGS. There have been a number of significant events showcasing the many and varied talents of our students. Read on to see just what we’ve been up to:
HICES Music Camp & Festival
HICES Music Camp & Festival
The annual HICES Music Festival ran from August 17 to 20, 16 OAGS students in Years 7-10 attended, playing and singing in various ensembles and choirs. The camp phase was held at Stanwell Tops Conference Centre and the final performance in the Sydney Town Hall. Mr Clipsham attended in the very important role of Concert Manager, Miss Gliddon worked with the Vocal Ensemble while I managed the Symphony Orchestra. This Festival, with 430 students and 60 staff from 35 HICES schools is an incredible experience for those attending. Students quickly learn a whole lot of new music and make friends from all over the state while staff are immersed in professional learning, connecting with colleagues from other schools.
Our students sang in the Vocal Ensemble and Chamber Choir, played in the Symphonic Winds, Concert Band and the String Orchestra. All students sang in the combined item at the conclusion of the concert. It was a stellar evening with some outstanding music performed.
City of Orange Eisteddfod
City of Orange Eisteddfod
Eisteddfod season is well under way and OAGS has been represented in a number of sections, Bands, Strings & Vocal. All of our ensembles have performed admirably, representing the school with passion and pride. A number of OAGS students have also had success as individuals in various piano, vocal and instrumental sections. Results for our major ensembles appear below:
- Senior Band 18 years & under - 2nd
- OPEN Jazz/Stage Band - 2nd
- OPEN Contemporary Ensemble - 2nd
- String Ensemble - Primary School - 2nd
- String Ensemble Secondary School - 3rd
- Secondary School Choir - 2nd
- Senior Vocal Ensemble - 1st
And in late breaking news:
- Years 3 & 4 (Stage 2) Choir - Highly Commended
- Years 5 & 6 (Stage 3) Choir - 1st
OAGS School Musical 2026
OAGS School Musical 2026
The much anticipated announcement of the 2026 School Musical was made at the Secondary Assembly last week, it’s Chitty Chitty Bang Bang . Inventor Caractacus Potts transforms an old car into a magical flying vehicle that transports him and his family to a kingdom ruled by the evil Baron Bomburst.
Lead auditions have already taken place, with almost 50 students keen to get a part. Call-backs are on Monday. Don’t worry if you missed out, a further round of auditions for the chorus will be held early in the new school year.
OAGS On Stage
OAGS On Stage
On the evening of November 4 (Week 4 - Term 4) our annual Performing Arts Showcase will take place in The Orange Civic Theatre. Many of our young performers will be displaying their hard work this year in the fields of Dance, Music & Drama, both Primary and Secondary. It will be an entertaining evening full of variety and inspiring performances.
Tickets will go on sale at the beginning of Term 4 . Save the date in your calendar now!
Noel Annett
Leader of CAPA
Sport
Thanking our Co Curricular Sport Sponsors
Thanking our Co Curricular Sport Sponsors
Community News
Enrolments
Enrolments
OAGS Classifieds
Kid's Club
Kid's Club
Going Wild - Holiday Club
Going Wild - Holiday Club
