Update from the Campus Principal

Dear Parents and Guardians,

It is hard to believe that another term has come to an end. The past ten weeks have flown by, yet they have been filled with meaningful achievements, exciting events, and steady progress across all areas of school life.

This past fortnight has been rich with activity and community spirit. Our Primary students impressed us all during their “Big Business” event, showcasing creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial flair. The Athletics Day was another highlight, with Raiders House taking the honours in a spirited competition that demonstrated talent, perseverance, and teamwork across the school.

Alongside these events, significant milestones have been reached in our learning spaces. The completion of the HSC Trial exams was a major achievement for our senior students, and our academic team has rolled out a comprehensive final sprint to ensure Year 12 are well prepared for their upcoming examinations. For the rest of the school, this sprint has also brought renewed focus and momentum as we approach the final stretch of the 2025 academic year.

This week we also marked a particularly significant occasion—the graduation of our Year 12 students. The Year 11s did a fantastic job hosting a celebratory breakfast, and together we enjoyed a heartfelt farewell to the Class of 2025. Their vibrance, sincerity, and fun filled nature have been defining features of their time at OSG Sydney. They will be missed dearly by both staff and peers, and we now wish them every success as they tackle their final exams and prepare to step into the adult world.

Finally, I extend my sincere thanks to our staff, parents, and volunteers. Your ongoing support, commitment, and hard work—so often behind the scenes—have made a profound difference in the life of our school this term. These contributions do not go unnoticed, and they are deeply appreciated.

I wish you all a restful and refreshing break and look forward to welcoming everyone back on campus for the beginning of the final term of 2025.

Warm regards,

Chris van Niekerk

Regional/Campus Principal

Student recognition

Student Awards

On Monday, 22nd September, we held a special Persona Award Morning Tea to recognise and celebrate students who have demonstrated outstanding qualities across three key areas:

Personal Wins – for those who have overcome challenges, shown resilience, and achieved personal goals.

Exemplary Performance – recognising academic excellence, leadership, and achievements in co-curricular activities.

Growth and Effort – awarded to students who have shown consistent improvement, a positive attitude, and strong commitment.

Congratulations to all our award recipients! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance are truly inspiring.

BRONZE AWARDS
LaylaDavisYear 7
RenaJeffreyYear 8
TillyMartinYear 8
HazelCalowYear 9
AinsleyShoreYear 9
ThomasinFooksYear 10
BlancheHalesYear 11
BjornSlackYear 11
HuxleyWigginsYear 11

SILVER AWARDS
LolaHalesYear 4
MasonProctorYear 4
SolveigLindqvistYear 7
GOLD AWARDS
DeonLamingYear 3
AdellaBrownYear 4

Student of the Week

Week 9


Week 10


Primary spotlight

Around Primary

Around Primary - Big Business

Stage 3 Market Day

During Term 3, students in Stage 2 and 3 explored the big question: How do businesses create products that support the wider community? Stage 2 focused on product design and presentation, while Stage 3 took on the challenge of developing and running their own “Big Business” stalls. On Tuesday, students showcased their incredible work—Stage 2 wowed families with Shark Tank-style presentations, and Stage 3 impressed with vibrant stalls featuring posters, treats, drinks, and games. It was a fantastic day of learning, creativity, and collaboration. Well done to all involved!

Stage 2 Shark Tank

Secondary spotlight

Year 12 Graduation

The Class of 2025 celebrated their Graduation in a memorable ceremony that will be long cherished by students, staff and parents alike.

The day began with a special breakfast hosted by the Year 11 group, honouring their graduating peers with warmth and camaraderie before the formal proceedings commenced.

The ceremony itself was filled with endearing reflections on each graduate’s school journey at OSG Sydney, alongside inspirational addresses from both school and community leaders.

A strong theme emerged throughout the morning – one of excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead, coupled with a deep sense of gratitude for the support received from teachers, parents, and the broader OSG community along the way.

It was a truly wonderful event that captured both the spirit of celebration and the significance of this important milestone. We extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Mellish and the organising team for their hard work and dedication in bringing together such a successful and uplifting occasion.

Campus news

A new way to read campus news

Sydney Campus has been selected to trial changes to the OSG campus newsletter process, before they are introduced globally in the coming months. This edition of the campus newsletter may look similar to previous editions, but it has been produced using a completely new system and process behind-the-scenes!

These changes are part of OSG’s goal to enhance OnePortal and use it to simplify and improve the parent information experience. We want to make it easier for parents to find the campus news they’re looking for – at the right time and on their mobile phone.

What’s changed

Parents should now be able to read important news articles on OnePortal even before the campus newsletter is distributed each fortnight. You can find them on OnePortal in the section at the bottom of your OnePortal homepage called “Latest news.”

Students and other newsletter readers are now able to access a new webpage to read the current and previous editions of their campus newsletter and others across the region. They will no longer receive an email to notify them when the latest newsletter is ready, but an OSG parent can forward their email to family members if they choose.

This is the first newsletter that has been produced in the new way, so there may be some glitches. Please share your thoughts to help us improve prior to the broader release to other campuses. Thank you for your support and patience as we work to enhance the parent information experience at OSG.

Drive for 75

Final Academic Sprint for Year 11 & 12 Students

Overview
On 12 September 2025, the Year 11 and 12 cohort at OSG Sydney gathered for a pivotal session launching the “Drive for 75” campaign — an initiative designed to support students in achieving the collective goal of an ATAR of 75. This campaign represents not just a numerical target, but a mindset of discipline, focus, and effort during the final weeks leading to the HSC examinations. The event featured guest speakers Patrick Sanderson, Royce Dunn, and James Hales, each sharing practical insights, motivational strategies, and lived experiences aimed at equipping students with the tools to succeed. The program is part of a comprehensive Final Academic Sprint, designed and implemented by Mrs Alison Brookes, Campus Deputy Principal, whose leadership and commitment have been central to preparing
students for this crucial stage.


Key Messages from the Guest Speakers

1. Patrick Sanderson – Building Strong Habits
Patrick reminded students that employers value effort and character as much as academic results. The ATAR, while important, is ultimately a reflection of the discipline and resilience cultivated during study. He emphasised the need for a comprehensive study plan across the next 4–5 weeks:
• Divide study time into morning and afternoon blocks, repeating the structure daily.
• Print the syllabus, annotate it with dot points and notes, and track mastery of each area.
• For subjects like Mathematics, regular past papers are the most effective way to diagnose weaknesses and strengthen knowledge.
• Establishing consistent routines in mornings and evenings builds habits that extend beyond school into the workplace.
Patrick’s message was clear: good habits plus time management equal success.

2. Royce Dunn – The Power of Focus
Royce provided perspective on the journey so far, reminding students they have sat through approximately 14,000 lessons during their schooling. In comparison, the few weeks left until exams are a brief but decisive period. He urged students to see every study hour as direct input that translates into marks. An extra hour today means an extra mark in the HSC.
His key advice included:
• Recognise this moment as a time for focus, not distractions. Social events, bucket lists, and nonessentials can wait.
• Confidence grows from focus. By locking in now, students will not only improve results but also build self-assurance that will carry into their early careers.
• In the long run, the specifics of the exam may fade, but students will remember how they approached this period and the pride in disciplined effort.
Royce challenged students to embrace a strong attitude and learn the lifelong skill of managing distractions

Click "Show more" to keep reading.

3. James Hales – Planning to Win
James drew on both personal and professional experience, describing students as “highly impressionable, like sponges.” Now is the time to form habits that can define success in school and beyond. He urged students to:
• Own their time by becoming “addicted” to their calendars, using schedules to prioritise study, hobbies, and training.
• Break goals into small, achievable chunks, understanding that success is the sum of small efforts repeated daily.
• Protect the most productive hours of the day for focused study.
• Embrace feedback, which he described as the “breakfast of champions.” Acting on constructive criticism now is practice for future workplaces where performance is measured against clear expectations.
James also reminded students that habits can form in just four weeks if pursued with commitment. He left them with the challenge to plan to win, listen to feedback, and protect their time.


Summary of Themes
Across all three speakers, consistent themes emerged:
1. Effort Matters – Success depends less on natural talent and more on consistent, deliberate effort.
2. Time Management is Critical – Structured planning, calendars, and routines are essential for making the most of the limited time before exams.
3. Focus Over Distraction – Now is the time to say no to unnecessary activities and dedicate energy to study.
4. Habits Define Success – The routines built in these weeks will carry into life, study, and work.
5. Confidence Comes from Discipline – Focused effort not only leads to better marks but also builds selfbelief for the future.


Closing Note
The “Drive for 75” campaign is more than a target — it is a collective commitment by students, teachers, and
families to give the HSC final weeks everything they deserve. With focus, discipline, and belief, an ATAR of 75 is
not only achievable but within reach of every student willing to put in the effort.


Success is out there — and it is yours for the taking.

Athletics Carnival

On Wednesday the 24th of September, OneSchool Global Sydney Campus held their Annual Athletics Carnival at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Warm-Up Track. The entire school came together in a vibrant celebration of athleticism, house spirit, and healthy competition.

From the moment the first race began, the track was alive with cheers, colourful house banners, and a strong sense of camaraderie. Students from Year 3 to Year 12 participated in a wide range of events including sprints, middle-distance races, high jump, long jump, shot put, and relays.

Highlights of the Day:

The 100m and 200m sprint saw some outstanding performances, with several students setting personal bests.

The House Relay had everyone on their feet, cheering as teams battled it out to the finish line.

Staff even joined in for the much-loved Teacher Race

Congratulations to the Raiders! With a strong all-round performance and unmatched team spirit, the Raiders took home the House Cup this year.

A huge thank you to Miss Holly Reuben and Miss Brielle Larsen for their hard work and excellent organisation. Their dedication and effort played a vital role in making the day such a success.

Well done to all students and staff for your hard work and encouragement.

Tutorial Treats

This term we launched an exciting new initiative, Tutorials for Treats! designed to encourage students to book more tutorials with their teachers. Over three weeks, students collected stamps in their planners for each tutorial attended—just like a coffee card! The reward was a fabulous morning tea held on Thursday 25 September.
It was wonderful to see such a strong take-up from our primary students and equally pleasing to welcome participation from Year 7 and Year 9 students. We look forward to continuing this initiative in Term 4!

Student Leadership Team 2026

Student Leadership Team 2026

We are delighted to announce the students who have been selected to serve on the 2026 Student Leadership Team. Congratulations to the following:

We extend our warmest congratulations to these students on this wonderful achievement. Their selection is a recognition of their commitment, character, and leadership potential. We look forward to their valuable contributions as they help guide and shape student life at OSG Sydney, particularly as we prepare to move into our new campus in 2026.

Get to Know the Staff

Mrs. Debbie Buttigieg

What is your role at OSG, and how long have you worked here?

I’m part of the Administration team as well as the WHS Supervisor for our campus. My 10-year milestone comes up early in Term 4.

What do you enjoy most about working at OSG?

The array of work responsibilities undertaken and keeping on one’s toes!

What’s a little-known or unexpected fact about you?

I'm an avid plasma donor, visiting my local Lifeblood Donor centre every 12-14 days.

When you’re not at school, what are some of your favourite ways to unwind or things you enjoy?

I love a great bush walk. Am currently tackling the 256km Great North Walk between Sydney and Newcastle – albeit in day walk stages!

If you could hop on a plane tomorrow, where would you go and why?

This is a tough one as I’ve recently discovered a love of international travel. I’m finding myself dreaming of this one more and more….would love to visit Nepal and take the challenge of hiking to Everest Base Camp.

What’s one piece of advice or a life motto you try to live by?

“Heart and soul”!

Calendar highlights

Term 4 dates

Tuesday 14 October – Students return

Thursday 16 October – Friday 7 November – HSC Exams

Week 3- Primary Grandparents Day (date to be confirmed)

Wednesday 12th November- SLT Training Day

Monday 17th November-Senior Year 2 (Current Year 11) return to school and commence their 2026 timetable

Monday 24 November – Thursday 27 November – Years 7-10 Exams

Friday 28 November – Pupil Free Day

Tuesday 2nd December- Welcome Day for Year 3 2026

Thursday 11 December – Recognition of Excellence Ceremony & final day of Term 4

Contact us

Click on "Show more" to see the full Sydney Campus contact list.

MANAGEMENT TEAM
REGIONAL / CAMPUS PRINCIPAL
Chris van Niekerkchris.vanniekerk@au.oneschoolglobal.com
DEPUTY CAMPUS PRINCIPAL
Alison Brookesalison.brookes@au.oneschoolglobal.com
ASSISTANT CAMPUS PRINCIPAL
Layn Mellishlayn.mellish@au.oneschoolglobal.com
CAMPUS STUDENT SUPPORT LEAD
Craig Lewiscraig.lewis@au.oneschoolglobal.com
PRIMARY DIRECTORY
Rachel Barakat5/6 Greenrachel.barakat@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Kayleigh Copeland4 Purplekayleigh.copeland@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Christie Daschke3 Yellowchristie.daschke@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Samara Howell3 Aquasamara.howell@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Caitlin Kelly5/6 Orangecaitlin.kelly@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Emily LansRFFemily.lans@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Sabine LeitnerGermansabine.leitner@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Elinore Moll5/6 Redelinore.moll@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Brian O'Rourke4 Bluebrian.orourke@au.oneschoolglobal.com
SECONDARY DIRECTORY
Mary-Anne BoutrosArts- RHODmaryanne.boutros@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Suzanne BurgerSciencesueburger@au.oneschool.global.com
Iain CowanMathematicsiain.cowan@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Gulsum DokumcuLab & Food Tech Assistantgulsum.dokumcu@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Jim HaydenMusicjim.hayden@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Mohini KakkarHSIEmohini.kakkar@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Ben MartinHSIEben.martin@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Erin MaxwellEnglish- RHODerin.maxwell@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Nicole MullerArt/Mandatory Languagenicole.muller@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Holly ReubenPDHPEholly.reuben@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Katerina SidorenkoMathematicskaterina.sidorenko@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Douglas SiniSciencedouglas.sini@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Jiten UdhasEnglishjiten.udhas@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Peter WilsonMathematics, Sciencepeter.wilson@au.oneschoolglobal.com
STUDENT SUPPORT
Hayleigh ArcherCampus Student Support Assistanthayleigh.archer@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Daniela BejCampus Student Support Assistantdaniela.bej@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Lois GannonCampus Student Support Assistantlois.gannon@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Tricia LauStudent Support Teachertricia.lau@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Sarah MurrayCampus Student Support Assistantsarah.murray@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Ann OrchardCampus Student Support Assistantann.orchard@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Janette ThyerCampus Student Support Assistantjanette.thyer@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Debbie WattsStudent Support Teacherdebbie.watts@au.oneschoolglobal.com
CAMPUS OFFICE ADMINISTRATION
Debbie ButtigiegAdministrationdebbie.buttigieg@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Benita NicholAdministrationbenita.nichol@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Sue TaylorAdministrationsue.taylor@au.oneschoolglobal.com
CAMPUS MAINTENANCE
Amr Abdel-SalemMaintenanceamr.abdelsalam@au.oneschoolglobal.com
CAMPUS ADMINISTRATOR
Mitchell Faulkesmitchell.faulkes@au.oneschoolglobal.com
Shane Halesshane.hales@au.oneschoolglobal.com