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The Vine Issue 2 – 2025
COLLEGE PRINCIPAL
Mr James Tamblyn
CyberSafety Solutions
As communicated to families late in 2024, Pedare very much looks forward to welcoming Susan McLean for a full-day series of workshops and presentations to students, staff and parents on Wednesday 2 April. Susan is Australia’s foremost expert in the area of cybersafety, and was a member of the Victoria Police for 27 years. In 2007 she established CyberSafety Solutions which has grown into the most highly respected cyber-safety consultancy in Australia.
The presentation for parents and caregivers will take place at 6.30pm. We strongly encourage your attendance on the evening which we are confident you will find both educational and empowering. The session will cover the positive benefits of technology as well as what all parents need to be aware of. Topics covered include:
- Reality & Risk. The reality of the online world.
- What are kids doing online. Learn about the latest apps and platforms your children are either on, want to be on or are being told about at school.
- Online Grooming. What is it and when/how does it occur? Preventative measures. What are the warning signs & what to do if you suspect this is happening to your child.
- Cyberbullying. What it is, where it happens, what it looks like, how to prevent and what to do if it occurs. Also the legal consequences and the possible criminal charges.
- Sharing Nudes. The taking and sending of explicit images. The social and emotional consequences as well as the Law and the serious issue of Sextortion.
- Problematic Gaming. How to manage digital devices in your home to avoid problems and what to do if/when they arise.
- Exposure to damaging content. Including online pornography & sites that encourage suicide, self-harm & eating disorders.
- Top Tips – how to assist the children in your care to stay safe online with rules, parental controls and restriction passcodes.
The session will conclude with time for questions. Please save the date. Further details to follow soon.
Senior Learning Centre
The SLC build project continues to track well. Internal fit-out is progressing, brick work is complete, most of the ground floor windows are in and the remaining external glass is expected for delivery in coming days. The structural steel for the linkway bridge is taking shape and the roof over this structure was installed recently. Some recent images are included for your interest.
Senior Learning Centre – Thursday, 20 February
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL (TEACHING & LEARNING)
Mrs Kat Elliott
As always, this has been a busy week for students across the College. Middle and Senior School students are beginning to approach their first assessments for the year, aiming to ensure they make excellent use of the guidance and support from teachers and other Pedare staff. Our Diverse Learning staff, in particular, are skilled at supporting all students to achieve their best, and it is wonderful to see them work alongside our students.
Across Junior and Middle Schools, we are approaching the annual NAPLAN test for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. Our outstanding IT team has been working this week to ensure all devices are ready to go.
NAPLAN is valuable for our community because it provides us with data against which we can track our progress. It informs teachers about the effectiveness of teaching programs in terms of literacy and numeracy skills. Specifically, NAPLAN asseses key skills in reading, writing, spelling, grammar, punctuation and numeracy, thereby providing valuable insights into strengths and areas for focus. We remember, too, that while these results contribute to a broader picture of a student’s academic journey, they can never be a reflection of the entirety of their potential.
At Pedare, we encourage a balanced perspective when it comes to the NAPLAN tests, and while results may be informative and thought-provoking, we also remember that they are only one part of the educational experience and does not define who students are.
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL
Mrs Mandy Hore
Community Breakfasts
There’s something special about breakfast, and if you are like me, it’s my favourite meal of the day especially when shared. Whether it’s a quick coffee and pastry or a heartier bacon and egg slider, these opportunities offer the perfect opportunity to connect, catch up and start the day on a positive note. The first of our Community Breakfasts were a great success, creating a relaxed atmosphere where we could nurture community spirit and connect with key pastoral care mentors and our student leaders.
Eldergreen Community Breakfast – Thursday, 13 February
Hillcott Community Breakfast – Friday, 14 February
Our community structure builds essential life skills including teamwork, communication and resilience. Through opportunities like our breakfasts, we can encourage students to get to know each other, feel confident to work towards common goals and to foster a positive, inclusive culture.
I hope to see you at one the remaining three breakfasts.
Swimming Carnivals
The first of our inter-community events is fast approaching. This year, our Junior School Swimming Carnival will be held on Thursday, 27 February, followed by the Middle and Senior School Swimming Carnival on Friday, 28 February, both at Water World. These events are wonderful showcases of our students’ swimming prowess and community spirit.
These carnivals are always an enjoyable day for students, family supporters and staff. We hope you can join us to cheer on your child’s community.
HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL
Ms Lisa Daws
Year 1 Grandparents Day
Year 1 students had the joy of welcoming their grandparents and special guests into the Junior School for ‘Grandparents Day’. The morning was filled with love, laughter and special moments as our students proudly shared their classrooms and learning experiences. It was heartwarming to see the connections between generations as they worked on activities, shared stories and enjoyed each other’s company. We sincerely thank all those who attended and made the day so special.
Year 1 Grandparents Day – Wednesday, 19 February
Pedare Student Voice (PSV) Assembly & Presentation
We were proud to formally introduce and celebrate our 2025 Pedare Student Voice (PSV) representatives at today’s Assembly. Elected by their peers, these students have shown leadership qualities and a commitment to making a positive impact within our College community. PSV members will meet regularly to share ideas, discuss student-led initiatives, and represent the ‘voices’ of their classmates. We look forward to seeing them grow as young leaders and make meaningful contributions throughout the year.
JS Assembly (PSV & Petworth Captains) – Friday, 21 February
2025 Junior School PSV Representatives:
– Reception: Yaiden T & Samaira C (RO), Connor R & Zelda P (RW)
– Year 1: Alfred T & Elena K (1B), Sophie K & Sebastian C (1HD)
– Year 2: Ashton T & Lani B (2N), Xavier C & Poppy H (2OE)
– Year 3: Sophie C & Arlo Z (3G), Edward W & Matilda G (3K)
– Year 4: Luke J, Amber X & Lachlan S (4D), Angus Z, Kiara H & Zali C (4P)
– Year 5: Rajveer B & Ava G (5A), Kabir S & Samaira R (5CT), Joah T & Riva L (5R)
Petworth Captains Announced
Leadership opportunities continue to be an essential part of our Junior School, and we are excited to announce the newly elected Petworth Captains for 2025, Oliver and Meredith. They will lead their community with enthusiasm, sportsmanship and teamwork, supporting their peers in school events and activities. Congratulations—we are confident they will inspire the Petworth community throughout 2025!
Petworth Junior School Captains for 2025 – Oliver B & Meredith K
Building Digital Intelligence
As technology becomes a daily part of life, it’s important for families to ensure their children engage with the online world safely. Parents and caregivers play a key role in helping children develop digital intelligence; the social, emotional and practical skills needed to navigate the online world safely.
Good habits start early. As children grow, it’s important to reinforce key principles:
These values not only guide their online interactions but also help them respond positively when challenges arise.
We encourage parents and caregivers to:
✅ Keep devices in open areas rather than bedrooms.
✅ Monitor online activity and set clear expectations around screen time.
✅ Stay informed about the apps and websites your child is using.
✅ Encourage open conversations about online interactions and potential risks.
By working in partnership together, we can help our students navigate the digital world with confidence and responsibility.
Credit:
Content adapted from the Australian eSafety Commission’s article “Good Habits Start Young.” ( )
Upcoming Diary Dates:
- NAPLAN Practice Test (Years 3&5) – Tuesday, 25 February
- Junior School Swimming Carnival – Thursday, 27 February
- Shrove Tuesday – 4 March
- Ash Wednesday Services – 5 March
- Years 2-5 Surf Days – Week 6, Tuesday-Friday, 4-7 March
- Year 1 Assembly – Friday, 7 March
HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
Mrs Eliza Buckoke
As we move through the term, we continue to be impressed with how our Middle School students are settling into 2025. Their enthusiasm, adaptability and commitment to learning and school life have been evident across all year levels.
Last week, we gathered as a Middle School community for the Middle School Leaders Induction Assembly. It was an opportunity to recognise and celebrate those students who have stepped up to take on leadership roles in 2025. In my address, I shared reflections on leadership, drawing on the example of Jesus as a servant leader. Leadership is not just about titles or recognition—it is about action, service and setting an example for others. Leadership is a shared responsibility. Every student, from Years 6 to 9, has the ability to lead through daily choices—supporting peers, standing up for others and fostering a positive school environment. Congratulations to our newly inducted leaders; we look forward to seeing how you serve and inspire throughout the year!
Middle School Leaders Induction Assembly – Thursday, 13 February
This week, our Year 8 students took part in their much-anticipated camp at Hindmarsh Island, with two groups attending across the week. Camp provided a fantastic environment for students to challenge themselves, step out of their comfort zones and strengthen friendships. Through a range of outdoor activities, these camps are an opportunity for students to build resilience, develop leadership skills and grow in independence.
Our Year 7 students had the opportunity to develop their creative writing skills with a visit from acclaimed author Phil Cummings. Phil presented a combined session to the entire Year 7 cohort, sharing insights into storytelling and the writing process. He also provided individual workshops for each class, giving students the chance to engage more deeply with their own writing and creativity.
Year 7 Author Visit – Tuesday & Wednesday, 18 & 19 February
Whether through leadership, teamwork or creativity, our students are embracing the opportunities that this year offers, and we are excited to see their continued growth.
HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
Mr Josh Willis
Last week, we welcomed back members of the Class of 2024’s ‘90s Club’ for a special mentoring session with our current Year 12 students. These recent graduates, who all achieved ATARs above 90, shared their experiences, strategies and insights into navigating the challenges of the final year of school.
During the interactive session, the group spoke about their journey through Year 12, offering practical advice to students preparing for their own experience. They discussed everything from effective study techniques and time management to maintaining their mental health.
Key insights shared by the 90s Club members included:
- The importance of establishing consistent study routines early in the year
- Strategies for balancing academic commitments with personal wellbeing
- Tips for managing stress during busy periods
- The value of collaborating with peers and seeking teacher support
- Real-world examples of how they overcame specific challenges
We are so grateful to the Class of 2024 ‘90s Club’ members for giving their time to support the Class of 2025.
All Senior School students continue to demonstrate impressive adaptability and commitment to their studies. The Year 10 cohort has stepped up in their engagement with the Senior School community, showing genuine interest in their new subjects, and teachers have observed growing confidence in tackling more complex academic work. Meanwhile, Year 11 students have made an excellent start to their Stage 1 journey, approaching their SACE requirements with dedication and enthusiasm. They have shown remarkable resilience in managing the increased academic demands.
FRUITFUL REFLECTION
Coffee, Croissants & Community
This term the College has invited students and their families from each Community to join with staff members for a delicious breakfast in the Wattle Centre. The food has certainly been a drawcard for these early morning gatherings, but of greater importance is the opportunity to connect and strengthen the experience of community.
In so many cultures across the globe the sharing of a meal is a powerful symbol of connection; an invitation to eat together is, in fact, an invitation to enter into relationship. This symbolic interplay of ‘food and fellowship’ is seen repeatedly in many of the Biblical narratives in both Old and New Testament. Shortly after his resurrection, Jesus encounters some of his disciples who have been out fishing and caught nothing. He helps them fill their nets, then issues an invitation to join him around the fire for breakfast. “Come and eat”, Jesus says to them, opening up the opportunity for their connection to go deeper. (You can read about this in John 21:1-19)
As you enjoy the hospitality of the College this year, and your sense of connection in the Pedare community grows, may you also be open to the invitation that God issues to all people through his Son Jesus.
“Taste and see that the Lord is good.” (Psalm 34:8)
Mr John Morton, College Chaplain
COLLEGE NEWS/NOTICES
Ash Wednesday Community Service
For Staff, Students and Families
Wednesday, 5 March
7.30-8.00am
College Chapel
Join with other members of the College community to mark the commencement of Lent, a time when many Christians around the world prepare for Easter with a season of reflection and repentance.
Rev Jo Smith, from the Anglican Parish of Modbury and Golden Grove, will lead the service, which will include scripture reflection and the opportunity to receive the sign of the cross in ash for those who value that tradition.
If you would like to attend and simply observe the service and learn about this Christian tradition, you are most welcome to do so. There is no obligation to receive the sign of the cross in ash.
Please note that the start and finish times will be punctual.
All enquiries to John Morton (College Chaplain): 8280 1700, jmmorton@pedarecc.sa.edu.au
Ash Wednesday Services
Junior School
Wednesday, 5 March
College Chapel
As an Anglican and Uniting Church school, Pedare celebrates Ash Wednesday with in-school services for Junior School students. During these services, students may choose to receive the sign of the cross in ash on their forehead or on the back of their hand.
Our College Chaplains, Mr John Morton, Mrs Alaina Frost and Ms Miriam Smith will lead the services which will be held in the College Chapel.
- Years 2 & 3: 9.40 – 10.10am
- Reception & Year 1: 11.00 – 11.30am
- Year 5: 11.45am – 12.15pm
Parents and caregivers are welcome to attend this service along with their child’s class. Please ensure you sign in at the reception desk.
SACE & Medicine Science Information Night
Dear parents,
You are cordially invited to Pedare’s combined SACE Information and Medicine Science Information Night. This event is designed for families with children in their Senior School, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the processes, expectations and opportunities available through the SACE.
Wednesday, 19 March
College Chapel
You are welcome to attend the session/s that best apply to your child:
6:00 pm – 6:45 pm: Senior School – SACE
For families with a child undertaking senior studies, this session will introduce information regarding SACE, subject selections, ATAR and VET. It is highly recommended for families with a child in Years 10 -11, but all year levels are welcome.
7 pm – 8 pm: Medicine Science: Introduction
This session will offer valuable insights into the field of Medicine by engaging presenters from the University of Adelaide and Flinders University. Guest speakers will provide opportunities for families to gain a deeper understanding of a future in Medicine and allied health. It is open to families of any year level interested in exploring medical sciences as a potential pathway for their child.
2025 Student Residential Address
Do we have your current residential address?
The Australian Government Department of Education requires the College to provide a statement of student residential addresses, in accordance with the Australian Education Regulation 2013 (Cth) (Regulation).
A statement of addresses contains the following information about each student at the school:
- Student residential address (not student names)
- Student level of education (i.e. whether the student is a primary or secondary student)
- Name and residential addresses of Person(s) responsible for each student. In general, the person responsible will be the student’s parent/guardian.
Please follow the link to the ‘Collection Notice’ for more information.
Please ensure that the College has current residential addresses recorded for students and parents, including separate addresses where parents and/or caregivers live apart.
To confirm or update your residential address, please contact the Registrar and Communications Manager, Julie Holland, at jholland@pedarecc.sa.edu.au
CREATIVE CORNER
The Magic of the Adelaide Fringe Festival
As summer winds down and we anticipate a few more warm evenings, Adelaide comes alive with the vibrant Adelaide Fringe Festival. From February to March, the streets, theatres and pop-up venues will be transformed into a celebration of creativity.
The Fringe is a perfect opportunity to immerse children and students in the dynamic world of the arts. With a lineup of theatre, music, comedy, circus and interactive performances, young audiences will enjoy memorable experiences that spark imagination.
At Pedare, our Senior Drama and Music students will head into the city to see and learn from live performances as part of their studies. Engaging with professional productions allows students to witness firsthand the power of storytelling, technical innovation and artistic expression. It also deepens their understanding of performance techniques, staging and audience engagement—critical skills for their academic and creative growth.
We encourage all Pedare families to enjoy this extraordinary festival. Attending live performances fosters a love for the arts, enhances cultural appreciation, and helps students connect with Adelaide’s vibrant artistic community. Closer to home, Tea Tree Gully Council will host the Summer Garden Festival at Civic Park this weekend, 22-23 February.
We look forward to seeing our students and families embrace this exciting season of arts and culture!
Mrs Emily Kenny
Learning Area Coordinator – The Arts
LEARNING HIGHLIGHT
Year 8 Camp
The Year 8 students had an exciting three-day adventure on Hindmarsh Island. With the whole year level attending across two camps over the week, students embraced a range of outdoor challenges and team-building activities.
At base camp, they put their problem-solving skills to the test and worked together to build shelters, while the highlight for many was the ever-popular surfing session. The most challenging aspect was the overnight kayaking expedition, where strong winds made paddling tough, but students pushed through and were rewarded with a stunning campsite. Cooking their first meal from scratch on Trangias was another proud achievement.
A huge thank you to the dedicated staff who supported and encouraged the students, making this an unforgettable experience!
Mrs Bronwyn Dutch
Year 6 German Schultüte
In Germany, there’s a wonderful tradition where children starting school receive a Schultüte, a cone filled with treats to make their first day extra special. It’s a memorable experience that stays with them for years. This term, Year 6 students embraced this tradition by creating and decorating their own Schultüten. These were filled with tasty treats and presented to the students as they began their journey of learning the German language. It was a fun and meaningful way to start their German language learning adventure!
Frau Edmondson, Frau Callen, Frau Schmidt
Stage 2 Outdoor Education – Conservation and Sustainability Walk to Cobbler Creek
Year 12 Outdoor Education class visited Cobbler Creek Recreation Park for a guided bushwalk with Shanelle Palmer from the Bush Classroom on Friday, 14 February. Shanelle provided valuable insights into the significance of this remnant bushland and the diverse biodiversity it supports.
This excursion formed the foundation for the class’s first assessment, where students investigate biodiversity within an ecosystem and critically examine human impact. While at Cobbler Creek, students collected data and recordings to support their analysis, exploring key management strategies needed for the park’s sustainable use. It was a fantastic hands-on learning experience in a unique local environment.
Mrs Bronwyn Dutch
Extra-curricular
NEWS, UPDATES AND RESULTS
The Pedare Extra-curricular Team are excited to bring you a new portal, containing information and links all in one location to our Sports and Clubs program.
The Portal is updated regularly to bring you the latest news, announcements, updates, results and more of Pedare Extra-curricular activities and events.
Pedare Second-Hand Uniform POP-UP!
Before the school year began, the Parents and Friends (P&F) Association hosted a successful POP-UP event on 22 and 23 January, giving families the opportunity to buy and sell their second-hand uniform items.
As our first attempt at this initiative, it was a great success! We thank the P&F for organising and running the College-donated stall and to the families who participated by setting up their own stalls.
We look forward to making this a regular event, with another POP-UP planned for the winter uniform changeover.
To join the contact list for a stall at the next event, email echadbourne@pedarecc.sa.edu.au.
Mrs Emily Chadbourne
Tea Tree Gully Anglican
Tea Tree Gully Anglican Church is a group of Christians who seek to serve Jesus in everything we do. Whether you are just visiting or looking for a Christian home, we aim to be a loving and supportive family for you.
On Sundays, we meet at the church at 8.30 am, 10.00 am and 6.00 pm. If you want to discover what the bible says Christianity is all about, join one of the numerous weekly bible discussion groups, or want to find out about our Kids Club (R-6) from 3:30-5pm and Youth group (Y7-12) from 7-9pm that both operate on a weekly basis during school terms.
Please visit our website () or contact Rick Maude at rick@ttgAnglican.org.au for details.
Gully Church (Tea Tree Gully Uniting) – Banksia Markets
Gully Church hosts the ‘local and friendly’ Banksia Markets on the first Saturday of each month from 8.30 am to 1.00 pm at 600 Milne Road, Banksia Park. Stalls inside the hall and in the car park include produce, fresh fruit and vegetables, jewellery, tools, bric-à-brac and lots more.
For more information, contact the Gully Church website at or email office@gullychurch.org.au
Golden Grove Uniting Church
Golden Grove Uniting Church, corner of Crouch and One Tree Hill Road, Golden Grove, has a traditional service at 10 am on a Sunday. Also, on the second and fourth Sunday of the month, we have a cafe-style church, a relaxed contemporary worship service at 6 pm in the Church hall.
Café Youth is a fun, interactive program for young people ages 14 and up looking to engage in topics of faith. Café Youth sessions start with a fun 30-minute activity based on the theme for the night, then followed by “Talk Time”, during which the group discusses a topic of faith while enjoying delicious snacks, refreshments and pizza! The cost for each session is $5.
For further information, please contact the Office at 8251 4298 or email office@goldengroveuniting.org.au You can even check our webpage:
