Our newsletters continue to ‘tell the story’ of a school offering interesting and engaging learning for students who range from 5 to 18 years of age. Having just read all of the reports, we celebrate the impressive learning of so many of our students who are working very hard, completing homework and making excellent progress.
Many of the highlights from Term 2 have been celebrated in newsletters, on School Stream and on Facebook but for the leadership team the highlights have included the camps, excursions, engaging classroom experiences, motivated students, growth in faith, our Community Hub and new initiatives in the Secondary School.
We wish to thank our dedicated and professional staff who have continued to inspire learning and support each other. We wish for each of them a safe and happy holiday as we do for all of our community.
With blessings,
Chris Riemann and Racha Hammoud Makki
Heads of Schools
Head of Primary
Assalamualikum dear Parents and caregivers,
We had two successful award assemblies in week 8 presented by the Foundations and Year 4 students. Both assemblies went very well and many students received an appreciation award from their teachers. I want to thank the students for their excellent presentations and their teachers for working hard to prepare and organise them to conduct such wonderful assemblies.
We also had some students from Concordia Blackwood Primary school visit our school. They were studying comparative religions and visited our school to see for themselves how we are practising our Muslim faith. They asked excellent questions about Islam and Muslims. Our students also asked great questions regarding their faith and practices. I want to thank all the Year 5D students and their teachers who supported this event. I feel it was an eye-opening session, MashaAllah.
The Year 3 students went for an excursion to the Wildlife Park and had a great time meeting the animals and discovering many other aspects relating to their Science subject.
I want to continue congratulating all the Student Leaders who are always looking into opportunities to be involved in our school Alhamdulillah. Starting from the School Captains and SRCs who are taking the responsibility of the Blanket Drive, the Custodians who are helping in the prayer hall and the House Captains who are helping keep our school clean and free of rubbish.
Some other activities which have taken place in the Primary are:
- FIFA Women World Cup for Year 5 and 6
- Soccer Carnival
- Basketball Carnival
- Leadership Day at AFL MAX organised for our Captains, House Captains and SCRs (One day excursion).
- Olympic Day
- Year 3-6 Spelling Bee
I want to highlight our Hajj program, which all the Primary students took part in to remember Allah, and it was very successful Alhamdulilah. Many thanks to all the teachers, SSOs and staff who helped and supported the event. Our students were amazing and beautiful. I am very proud of their manners and behaviour.
I am grateful to our dear parents for their continuing support of Playford College. Your communication with your child/children’s teachers is vital for the sake of keeping the teaching and learning path smooth and successful. The teachers and other staff, including myself, are always there for you. We welcome your questions and feedback to improve the school and overall learning.
I want to say Eid Mubarak to you all. May Allah accept all our deeds and actions.
May Allah reward you and bless you.
Assalamualikum and Khuda Hafiz,
Head of Secondary
We hope that you had a blessed Eid al-Adha and a rejuvenating few days break. As we enter the final week of Term 2, both students and staff are eagerly anticipating a longer change of pace for the next couple of weeks.
This week, the Semester reports will be released, providing an excellent opportunity to celebrate your child's achievements and discuss their goals for the upcoming semester. Take a moment to acknowledge your child's hard work and dedication, offering them the support and guidance for their ongoing growth and success. I encourage everyone to approach these reports with a positive mindset, using them as a chance to inspire and motivate your child. Reinforce their self-belief and instill a sense of responsibility towards their education.
This week, Year 12 students completed their Semester 1 trial exams, and although the Year 12 reports will be slightly delayed for teachers to mark the exams, they will be released in Week 1 of next term. For parents of Year 12 students, this is a critical stage as they complete their courses and approach their final exams. It is important to remind them that these next two weeks are not a time for leisure. Encourage them to maintain and lift their focus and dedication, seeking strength and guidance through prayer.
The Parent-Teacher Interviews have been a tremendous success, providing valuable opportunities to engage with parents and students. The atmosphere has been incredibly positive, and it has been heartwarming to witness students celebrating their achievements and engaging in meaningful discussions about their goals with both parents and teachers. These interviews serve as an important part of our school calendar, allowing us to work collaboratively with families to provide the necessary support and enhance student learning.
As the holiday period begins, I sincerely hope that everyone gets the chance to recharge and unwind. Whether it's during holidays for students or afterwards, when students return for some parents, I pray that all students come back refreshed and ready to continue their academic journey with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
Faith in Our College
Salam alaykom everyone,
I pray this edition of the newsletter finds you well.
As we near the end of term, we enter the holy month of Dhul Hijjah, that is the home to the Hajj pilgrimage. The Hajj is a time for self reflection as we continue our journey to God, navigating any of the challenges we may face. It is a timely reminder to reconnect with our fitrah (innate nature) in the hope that we may live a meaningful and happy life. On Monday and Tuesday last week, we held our Hajj Programs for Primary and Secondary respectively. Below are snapshots of the experiences:
As you may know, we have organised a workshop in the school holidays for the students in Year 7 to 12 with Shaykh Amin Rastani from Mizan Institute. This workshop is organised for students where they will be going through contemporary issues regarding faith with Shaykh Amin.
To get your ticket for the event please use the Qkr! App or students themselves can pay $20 at school. For more details please refer to the note that was sent via email to the students and parents of those in Years 7 to 12.
In Pastoral Care, students enjoyed an Art activity with Ms Nazneen, where they pondered on the phrase 'I am a Muslim and I...', before creating an artwork on their reflections. Below are snapshots of their flourishing imaginations:
We pray that everyone continues to experiences God's love as we end Term 2.
With blessings
From our student leaders
Dear parents/caregivers,
Please see updates from School Captains; Nazish Abbas and Ayuba Kenneh
- In Week 9, our Year 10 students conducted their Career Exploration Week. The students chose different workplaces to gain experience; ranging from offices to factories and everything in between. They had the chance to see what it is like to work in a 'real-world' environment and learn about the skills and qualities that are required to be successful in the workplace. We hope that all of our Year 10 students had a positive and rewarding experience during their work experience placements, and that they come away from the week with a greater understanding of the world of work.
- Our Secondary girls' team is set to participate in the upcoming Women's Cup. We would like to extend our best wishes to them as they prepare for this exciting event. We are proud of their hard work and dedication in representing our school in this competition. We believe that they have what it takes to succeed and bring home the trophy. The Women's Cup is a great opportunity for our girls to showcase their skills and ability on the field. We have no doubt that they will make us proud. Good luck to our Secondary girls' team in the Women's Cup!
- Secondary students from Years 7 to 12 have completed their exams. It has been a challenging time for our students, as they have been working hard to prepare for their exams. We are extremely proud of them for their dedication and commitment throughout this period.
- As we move towards the final weeks of the academic year, we ask that you please keep our Year 12 students in your thoughts and prayers. They have just completed their exams. This is a crucial time for them, as their results will have a significant impact on their future academic and career prospects.
With blessings,
Primary School Updates
Foundation
In Design and Technology lessons, the Foundation students have been practising inputting algorithms into the BeeBots. Through consistent practice, the students are becoming proficient in executing the commands accurately!
Year 1
The Year 1 students have been learning about position and direction in Mathematics. Students have been applying theory in class and outdoor activities!
Year 2
Quran classes have started 'Quran Rotations', where there are different stations with different activities. Below are snapshots of the rotations!
1. Letter Block Station: Tests students' understanding of different formations of letters in words.
2. Booklet Station: Students focus on their booklet work on the focused letter of the day (Monday's focus was on ك).
3. iPad Station: Students can practice their Surah that will be tested, through listening on the iPad with headphones.
4. TV Station: There is a station for TV games for Arabic under an app called 'AlefBaTa'.
In Art, the Year 2 students have been exploring different ways to create art with sand. Students linked their learning to the Indigenous Australian' artworks and how resources were used in various ways to create masterpieces.
Year 3 - Gorge Wildlife Park Excursion
On 28th of June, the Year 3 students enjoyed an excursion to Gorge Wildlife Park, as part of their Science unit on living things. Students had the opportunity to meet several animals during a keeper talk, including leopard tortoises, spiny leaf insects, a koala, and a ring tailed possum.
As students journeyed through the park, they fed wallabies and kangaroos, whilst meeting camels, capuchin monkeys and many different Australian birds!
Below are snapshots of the enjoyable experience!
Year 4
The Year 4 students have completed their Procedural Writing unit. To showcase their learning, students pulled up their sleeves and became chefs in their own kitchens, cooking up their desired dishes. Students enjoyed sharing their cooking processes with the class, whilst trying all the spectacular meals that were brought in to share!
In Week 8, both 4J and 4L conducted Science experiments. Students investigated and tested how different materials compose, with a focus on the properties of cotton and polyester.
Year 5
In Art, the Year 5 students learnt about perspective; a technique that enables artists to add the illusion of depth to a painting or drawing. Students drew out and painted artworks that represented tree perspectives.
In Science, Year 5 students learnt about animal adaptations and got to choose a native Australian animal to research. Some were eager to share their information reports aloud to the class.
Year 6
The Year 6 students would like to share their blessings and serenity with everyone in this beautiful month. Last week, the Year 6 students focused on learning different reading skills as they immensely enjoyed reading books together.
Congratulations to the students from 6A, who won the best buzz game design!
Primary School - End of Term 2 Assembly
On Wednesday, at the end of term assembly, students across all Primary classes presented 'Teacher Appreciation Awards' to their teachers, which recognised and acknowledged their individual qualities.
FIFA Women's World Cup -Soccer Carnival
On Monday 3rd July, some Year 5/6 students travelled to ServiceFM Stadium, Gepps Cross to take part in a soccer carnival, which was created to promote the FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy Tour.
The FIFA Women’s World Cup, which begins on the 20th July, will be held in Australia and New Zealand. While at the carnival, students were lucky enough to get close to the trophy which will be given to the winning nation at the end of the tournament.
Year 5/6 SAPSASA Basketball Carnival
On Tuesday 4th July, some Year 5/6 students were selected to compete in the Playford District Basketball Carnival at Starplex Gawler. Both boys and girls teams played 7 games throughout the day. Although there were challenging moments, the students should be proud of their efforts and improvement.
Secondary School Updates
Year 10 Camp - Murraylands Aquatic Centre
On Wednesday 14th of June, the Year 10 students embarked on a journey to Murrylands Aquatics Centre for their Year 10 Camp. Students were blessed with beautiful weather on all days, that allowed them to participate in a plethora of activities. This camp was a learning experience that created a space for our learners to enjoy different water activities including sailing, kneeboarding, waterskiing, standup paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing and small boat handling!
Students were able to seek out and overcome challenges, develop new skills, and build on their teamwork skills when sailing and canoeing. Relationships flourished further as students enjoyed a halaqah by the campfire, reflections during stargazing and prayer together. The 3 day camp ended with students driving a small boat, winding up their learning experiences for a camp they will not forget.
We thank the Year 10 students for participating, Playford College staff that helped with running a smooth camp as well as Murrylands Aquatics Centre for the opportunity and amazing experience!
Student reflections:
My favourite parts of the camp were the sailing, skiing and stargazing we had at night. With sailing, I had Hadi and Nawid on my boat, and we made a really good team which is what made us really enjoy it. I got the hang of skiing really fast and it was one of the main highlights, regardless of the extremely cold aftermath. On both nights, students enjoyed a relaxing stargazing experience with Mr Al-Zubeidi. Because it was such an isolated area, there was an abundance of stars which lit up the sky, which left us with a quiet and peaceful moment before bed. I also enjoyed Hide and Seek on the first night since I found such a great tree to hide in, that all the seekers had walked past me at some point. - Abdullah Kabi
My favourite part of camp was small boat handling, which involved a lot of excitement and enthusiasm. I also really enjoyed standup paddle boarding, where I was one of the only two students who did not fall off their board. Having a game of Hide and Seek was fun too, as my friends and I found a very good spot to hide. The best part of camp was the spirit of the people who were there; everyone was full of excitement, respect and kindness. Although a very cold camp, it was the best one I have been to. - Hashim Almuqbel
Year 7/8 Girls Basketball Competition 🏀
The Year 7/8 girls competed in a basketball competition against Aldinga College and Plympton International College. Our students competed hard and showed great determination and sportsmanship during the whole event. Well done girls!
Below are snapshots of the day!
Soccer Tournament
The Year 7 and 8 girls and boys were invited to attend a soccer event to celebrate the start of the upcoming Women’s World Cup of soccer.
Here you see Mr Evans with Zahra, Farheen, Maryam and Muhaddisa and the real trophy that will be awarded to the winners of the World Cup! A great day had by all!
Stage 1 Business - Presentations
Last week, the Stage 1 Business students presented their final Business Pitches to the their classmates. Students presented viable and environmentally sustainable business ideas which displayed their originality and creativity.
Year 9 - English
In English, the Year 9 students have been working on creating Feature Articles. With a target audience of high school students, the Year 9s created articles that teenagers would pick up and relate to. Below are some of the creative masterpieces!
The community hub
In Term 2 the Community Hub ran a variety of programs. The Hub is immensely grateful to have many outside agencies who support running the program. Morella Community Centre ran a citizenship course with us this term, which will continue next term. The speech pathology students and speech pathologist are immensely supportive as they also help run the playgroup on Wednesdays. The 'new and emerging communities' supported the cooking group this term and the Hub closely works with Anglicare and Hippy for creches. The Hub has been immensely blessed with such great networks who support us and our families in ways which are of importance.
Below is the Term 3 Community Hub timetable.
Counsellor's Corner
The importance of helping children develop good habits
A habit is a repetitive behaviour of a person. It allows an individual to learn and practice good behaviour in everyday life. Establishing good habits in children will help them develop a strong personality to grow to be productive and successful people in society. Good habits include healthy diets, good sleep, good manners, physical activities, screen management and personal hygiene.
Furthermore, helping children to develop good habits will enable them to differentiate between good and bad habits, and can grow healthier mentally and physically.
How parents can help children develop positive/good habits
- Be a role model: Acting and showing good behaviours and habits in front of your children helps them learn to do the same and remember that preventing bad habits is much easier than breaking and changing them.
- Setting routines: Involve your children in setting routines to encourage the sense of responsibility towards following them. Routines will instil a sense of predictability and stability which will help children to adopt and maintain the habits easily.
- Provide positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcements such as praise and reward will encourage and motivate the child to keep practising the good habits. Remember to focus on the efforts and improvements rather than on the outcomes.
Here are some essential good habits that we need to help children to develop:
- Eating habits: Many studies show that having healthy eating habits in childhood and adolescence is important for healthy growth and development, and to prevent many different health issues.
- Sleep habits: The quality and quantity of sleep is essential in a child's growth and well-being through all different developmental stages.
- Physical activity: It’s recognised scientifically that regular physical activities in childhood and adolescence will help children to grow strong bones and muscles, control weight, having less symptoms of depression and anxiety, develop longer attention span and good social skills.
- Well-balanced schedule: Not sustaining a well-balanced schedule will affect the child’s development adversely such as attention span, poor school performance, and social and emotional disorders. For example, if we let children watch the television for hours, then as a result, reading or playing time will be limited or often skipped. This will encourage children to build bad or unhealthy habits.
- Positive thinking: Maintaining a positive environment at home is the first step towards establishing positive thinking. Talking to them about mistakes and how to accept it and learn from will help them become more resilient.
Ultimately, creating good habits earlier in life, helps children to develop and boost their self-discipline and self-confidence, improve their overall well-being and prepare them for long term success in different features of life.
With blessings,
Term Dates
07/07/2023 – End of Term 2
24/07/2023 - Student Free Day
25/07/2023 - Start of Term 3
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