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The Vine Issue 2 – 2026
COLLEGE PRINCIPAL
Mr James Tamblyn
Lent
This week our community again begins preparations for one of the most important seasons in the Christian calendar; the journey toward Easter. This journey begins with Shrove Tuesday, traditionally a time to use up rich foods before the more reflective season of Lent. It’s a day of celebration, gratitude and preparation for the spiritual path ahead. Students gathered on Tuesday to share pancakes and spend time reflecting on the significance of this symbolic time.
Shrove Tuesday and Pancake Day – 17 February
Ash Wednesday invites us to pause and reflect. During services held around the world, Christians come together in a spirit of humility, repentance and renewal. It reminds us of our humanity and our need to grow in kindness, patience and love. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, forty days of spiritual preparation leading up to Easter Sunday. Many choose to give something up or take something on – a daily act of compassion, prayer or service – as a reminder of the deeper meaning of the season. As we journey together through Lent in 2026, may our community find renewed hope, gratitude and joy as we prepare our hearts for Easter.
Community Engagement
My thanks to families for your support of community events over the first part of the year. It was a joy to welcome so many guests to our Junior School Grandparents and Special Friends Morning this week. Excited students warmly greeted their special family members and were thrilled to share their learning experiences and complete activities together. Grandparents and special friends play such important roles in the lives of young people. We are grateful for all you do, and the wonderfully positive impact you have on our community. Thanks to all who were able to come along; we loved spending our morning with you.
Junior School Grandparents and Special Friends Morning – Friday, 20 February
It has also been wonderful to welcome parents to information evenings, Community Breakfasts, special assemblies and student celebrations. I encourage you to save the date for upcoming events, including our P&F Quiz Night and the 40 Year Gala Celebration.
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – TEACHING & LEARNING
& HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
Mrs Eliza Buckoke
As we wrap up Week 4 of Term 1, the focus at Pedare remains on our Guiding Principle of Thrive. We believe that when students are clear about their purpose and understand what success looks like, their confidence builds and their effort follows. It is often the small, deliberate adjustments in the classroom that help students feel safe to try, supported to improve and challenged to grow. This spirit was perfectly captured during the recent Middle School Student Leader Induction Assembly, where we celebrated Year 9 leaders and revisited the 2026 theme: Called to Contribute. We reminded all students that big goals are reached through daily habits and the small, everyday decisions to uplift those around them rather than settling for “business as usual.”
Middle School Leadership Induction Assembly – Thursday, 12 February
Academic and wellbeing growth continues through several immersive experiences across the year levels. Year 7 students recently engaged with renowned author Phil Cummings to explore the art of story writing.
They also attended the Verbal Combat theatre incursion by Brainstorm Productions. This performance provided a powerful platform to discuss online bullying, social media respect and digital privacy. Meanwhile, Year 9 students gained a valuable real-world perspective by meeting with a guest speaker from the German Australian Business Council and an Old Scholar to discuss the practical applications of languages and Legal Studies.
Looking ahead, NAPLAN preparations are underway for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. We will conduct a Nationally Coordinated Practice Test on Tuesday, 24 February, to ensure students are familiar with the format and that ICT systems are operating seamlessly. Formal testing will then commence on Wednesday, 11 March. While these tests are a point-in-time measure, the resulting data is invaluable in helping staff refine R-12 teaching strategies to ensure every student continues to progress. We thank you for your ongoing support and encourage you to reach out with any questions.
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – STUDENT LIFE & WELLBEING
Mr Josh Willis
Friendship & Belonging
At the heart of a flourishing school is the sense of belonging. As students navigate their journey through Pedare, one of the most vital landscapes is that of peer friendship. Learning how to make new friends and sustain relationships involves skills every young person needs to understand and develop. Belonging to a group that is like-minded with similar interests is highly beneficial to a young person’s wellbeing. It gives them a sense of security, helping them feel valued, which builds their confidence to tackle challenges they encounter at school and beyond.
Positive friendships are important to the journey into adulthood. Parents and caregivers can support their child or teenager by providing guidance in the many social and emotional skills required for a healthy relationship. This will help them to obtain, retain and maintain friendships. However, not all friendships are regarded as positive. Sometimes young people develop negative or toxic friendships. Therefore, it is also important for them to learn how to identify, avoid or deal with such a friendship.
To support families in these conversations, I encourage you to explore the latest edition of SchoolTV: Friendship & Belonging. This resource offers practical advice on how you can support your child in developing the skills they need to feel connected and secure in their social circles.
You can access the report and accompanying videos here: https://pedarecc.sa.schooltv.me/newsletter/friendship-belonging
As we work together to foster a culture of inclusion and respect at the College, I thank you for your continued partnership in supporting students’ social and emotional growth.
Middle & Senior School Swimming Carnival is just around the corner. It’s time to show off your Community spirit!
Event Details
Date: Friday, 27 February 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 2:45 PM
Venue: Waterworld Aquatic Centre, Ridgehaven
Arrival & Departure
Please note that the school day begins and ends at Waterworld.
Drop off: Between 8:00 AM and 8:25 AM.
Roll Call: 8:30 AM inside the centre.
Pick up: 2:45 PM from the venue.
What to Wear & Pack
Students should wear their Community tops and closed-in sports shoes.
Swimwear: Please ensure bathers are appropriate for racing. Note: Two-piece bathers are only permitted if a rash vest or t-shirt is worn over them at all times.
Food & Drink: Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch.
Kiosk: The Waterworld kiosk will be available at selected times but will close at 1:30 PM.
HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
Mr Joel Cockerill
As we move further into the semester, it has been a privilege to witness Senior School students engaging with the world through a lens of both creativity and critical inquiry.
Year 12 Religion students visited St Peter’s Cathedral on Tuesday to gather primary research for their SACE summative assessment. This visit focused on how core beliefs and practices, including baptism and prayer among other sacred traditions, are visually and physically portrayed within the church. Furthermore, students investigated the vital role the Cathedral plays in the local community, exploring how the church gives back through its various outreach programs and support networks.
Year 12 Religion Studies Excursion – Tuesday 17 Feb
Year 10 English students recently traded their desks for the tranquil surroundings of Wynn Vale Dam. This descriptive writing excursion allowed students to enjoy the natural scenery, providing a peaceful environment for them to develop their creative prose outside the traditional classroom setting.
Additionally, to support their future transitions, Year 10 students have begun working with Morrisby, which is a leading career matching service. Through flagship psychometric assessments that measure innate aptitudes and individual strengths, students will receive personalised career suggestions. This process empowers them to align their personality with potential vocational paths, ensuring their senior secondary choices are purposeful and informed.
It is heartening to see Senior students connecting their academic studies with real-world sites and future possibilities.
FRUITFUL REFLECTION
Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday was celebrated across the College with Junior School and Middle & Senior School Services. Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent; 40 days of preparation before the celebration of Easter. This year, we have encouraged students to not only consider things that they might “give up” over Lent, but also what they might “take on” as a spiritual discipline and contribution to community. In the Middle and Senior School, we looked at service, scripture, worship, prayer and solitude as ways to connect more with the story and life of Christ. In the Junior School, we focused on Jesus’ example of truth, light, honesty, forgiveness, care and love, acknowledging that as we turn towards these characteristics, we actively turn away from the things that get in the way of us following Jesus. A highlight was the imposition of ashes, a ceremony connecting us with humanity and a shared need for the hope and forgiveness found in Christ.
Mrs Alaina Frost
Ash Wednesday Services – 18 February
COLLEGE NEWS/NOTICES
SACE Information Night and Medical Sciences Information Night
Parents/Caregivers are cordially invited to Pedare’s combined SACE Information Session and an Introduction to Medical Sciences Session. This event is designed for families with children in the Senior School, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the processes, expectations and opportunities available through the SACE and the Senior School.
- Date: Tuesday, 24 February
- Location: College Chapel
Families are welcome to attend the session/s that best apply to your child
Session 1: 6:00 pm – 6:45 pm SACE Information
For families with a child undertaking senior studies, this session will introduce information regarding SACE, subject selections, ATAR and VET. We will discuss pathways available to students at Pedare. It is highly recommended for families with a child in Years 10 -11.
Session 2: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm Introduction to Medical Sciences
This session will offer valuable insights into the field of Medicine by engaging presenters from Adelaide University and Flinders University. Guest speakers will provide opportunities for families to gain a deeper understanding of a future in Medicine. It is open to families of any year level interested in exploring medical sciences as a potential pathway for their child.
Email [email protected] if you require more information.
Mrs Catherine Noack
Junior School Stay & Play
This term, we’re bringing the Junior School community together for a series of after-school “Stay & Play” events. Each year level will have its own dedicated afternoon to relax, play and socialise. It’s a wonderful, informal way to meet other parents in your child’s year level while the students enjoy some extra time together.
Monday, 23 February: Reception
Notice of Parents & Friends Annual General Meeting
The Parents and Friends Association (P&F) is excited to kick off 2026! We are a volunteer group dedicated to “friendraising” and fundraising to enhance our students’ learning experience and bring the Pedare community closer together.
Whether you are a parent or grandparent, joining the P&F is a fantastic way to meet new people and make a meaningful impact on College projects.
We warmly invite you to attend the P&F Annual General Meeting:
Date: 6:30pm, Tuesday, 3 March
Location: Catford Boardroom, Pedare
Ready to help? Whether you want to join the committee or just volunteer occasionally, we’d love to have you. Click here to register your interest: Pedare Parents & Friends Association Inc: Nominations for 2026 Committee
P&F 80s Quiz Night
Dust off those leotards and leg warmers, you’re invited for an evening of bodacious fun hosted by the totally rad Parents and Friends Association!
Friday, 27 March
From 7pm in the College Chapel
Tickets are $10 per person.
Individual tickets and tables of 6-8 are available to purchase via QKR!
Don’t be a square, get in quick as tables are limited. Tickets close 20 March, unless sold out prior. Please note this is an adults-only event.
80s costumes are encouraged
Gather your friends and come up with a gnarly team name
Prizes up for grabs
BYO Food & Drinks (alcohol permitted)
For any questions, please contact [email protected]
Consent2Go Reminders
Thank you to parents for completing the Consent2Go onboarding process via the Student Profile Update Invitation email. If you still need assistance completing this, please contact [email protected] for support.
Emergency Contacts
Both parents/guardians will be able to see and edit your child’s alternate emergency contact name and number. The College Office has been used as a placeholder if these can not be shared with both parents.
Parents will always be the first contacts, and an emergency contact would only be used in an emergency situation where parents are unable to be contacted.
As part of each excursion invite/consent, you will be guided through a review of your child’s Consent2Go profile, including parent contact information, health questions and medical record. Please ensure this information is kept up to date.
Consent2Go Parent App
We recommend using the Parent App for easier management of consent and updating your child’s profile. Setup information can be found on the Support Portal link below.
How to get help?
Use the link below to the Consent2Go Parent Support portal, which contains current information, guides and FAQs to assist you.
Pedare Consent2Go Parent Help & Support Portal
Alternatively, contact the College Support team for further support by email: [email protected]
Introducing Morrisby Psychometric Careers Profile
We are excited to introduce the Morrisby Psychometric Careers Profile; a tool designed to help students navigate their future more clearly and personally.
As students reach Senior School, they face important decisions regarding subject selection and post-school pathways. Morrisby is a world-leading career discovery platform that uses a series of psychometric assessments to help students understand their unique strengths. Unlike a standard classroom test, Morrisby measures innate aptitudes such as verbal, numerical, abstract, mechanical and spatial reasoning, while taking into account interests and personality traits.
The result is a personalised Morrisby Profile that suggests career paths and study options specifically tailored to how your child thinks and what they enjoy. It provides a starting point for exploration, highlighting industries they may never have considered and showing the educational routes needed to get there. One of the best features is the lifelong access, allowing students to update their profiles as they grow and evolve.
Morrisby Profile – Information for parents
Year 10 students have already completed their psychometric testing during their Exploring Identities and Futures (EIF) lessons and will be analysing their personal data in the coming weeks.
In the coming months, we will be hosting a Parent Information Session where you can view these profiles alongside your child and learn how to interpret the results together.
Mrs Catherine Noack
Junior School Parent Representative
WELLBEING MATTERS
Want to learn more about teen mental health?
Black Dog Institute is a proudly independent, not-for-profit, globally renowned mental health research institute. Parents and carers are invited to attend upcoming free mental health webinars, designed to provide practical tools, strategies and insights to help them support the young people in their lives.
Delivered by an expert clinician, these webinars will explore:
- Understanding mental health in adolescence, including insights from the Future Proofing Study
- What is mental health, and when to be concerned
- Key strategies to support adolescents
- Having the conversation – what to say and how to create a supportive environment
- Getting help – health professionals, online and digital support for parents and adolescents
- Promoting healthy habits – including building connections, sleep, and screen use
LEARNING HIGHLIGHT
2026 Lunar New Year Activity
As the moon begins its new cycle, Pedare is alive with the vibrant energy of the Lunar New Year. This festival marks a time of renewal and the gathering of family and friends to welcome a fresh start. This year, we celebrate the Year of the Horse, which encourages us all to pursue goals with speed and grace, making it an inspiring emblem for a year of ambition and purposeful effort.
Junior School students designed custom bookmarks and wish cards, which include their hopes for the coming year, creating a collective display of optimism for the future.
Middle School students participated in specialised “Year of the Horse” craft workshops, utilising a blend of traditional textures and modern design to explore the meaning of the ‘Horse’ in symbols of endurance and vitality.
Senior School students engaged in a reflective tradition of assembling fú dài 福袋, or lucky pouches. By placing personal affirmations and symbolic tokens inside, they created mindful reminders of hope, resilience and the support of our community.
We wish our community a year filled with the courage of a galloping horse and the joy of new beginnings. May your path be swift, your spirit remain high, and your heart be full of prosperity and peace.
Happy Lunar New Year!
Mrs Grace Liu
2026 Lunar New Year Activities – Monday – Friday, 16-20 February
Year 12 Outdoor Education Cobbler Creek Excursion
Year 12 Outdoor Education students walked to Cobbler Creek Recreation Park during their double lesson last Friday, 13 February. We were met by Shanelle Palmer, Pedare parent and President of Friends of Cobbler Creek. She spoke to students about the history of the area and the sustainable practices utilised within the park to promote biodiversity, while permitting user groups to recreate within this naturally significant area. While walking along picturesque trails, students were able to examine the issue of human impact and the management strategies required for sustainable use of the Cobbler Creek Recreation Park.
Mrs Bronwyn Dutch
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Year 12 Outdoor Education Cobbler Creek Excursion – Friday, 13 February
Year 10 English Descriptive Writing Walk
Year 10 students have been learning about descriptive writing, and last week they had the opportunity to walk together to the Wynn Vale Dam to gain some inspiration for their own landscape writing. This beautiful natural space offered the perfect backdrop for students to sit, listen, observe and feel what was around them. It was great for them to have the chance to write based on real-time observations.
Mrs Sarah Bloomfield
Year 10 English Descriptive Writing Walk – Tuesday-Friday, 10-13 February
Year 9 Language Incursion
Year 9 students recently explored the power of languages with two special guests. A board member from the German Australian Business Council explained how language skills act as “soft power” in the professional world, fostering the cultural intelligence needed for international trade and networking.
We also welcomed back an Old Scholar, Adele Jansen (Class of 2023) who shared her journey from studying Chinese in Senior School to her current Law studies. She highlighted how the discipline of learning Mandarin sharpened her analytical thinking, providing a unique competitive edge in the legal field. These stories reminded students that a second language is more than a subject; it is a key to global careers in business, law and beyond.
Mrs Grace Liu
Year 9 Language Incursion – Tuesday, 17 February
Year 8 Reading with the Junior School Students
Year 8 students have been studying intertextuality in picture books, exploring the ways in which many stories draw on other well-known tales. They have also been looking at common language features of children’s books and have been writing their own intertextual letters in response to the much-loved book ‘The Jolly Postman.’ This week, Year 8 students were matched with a Junior School class to share their work and receive feedback on the letters that they wrote. There was also time for some shared reading. It was lovely to see the two year levels working together and learning from each other.
Mrs Sarah Bloomfield
Year 8 Reading with the Junior School Students
Year 7 Author Visit
This week, Year 7 students had the privilege of welcoming acclaimed children’s author Phil Cummings into their classrooms.
Phil presented to the whole Year 7 cohort, inspiring them with his love of writing and encouraging them to write about their own everyday experiences. Phil then joined each class in their classrooms for a writing workshop, encouraging students to bring their own ideas to life. It was a joy to see the students so engaged and keen to read Phil’s books and create their own stories.
Mrs Sarah Bloomfield
Year 7 Author Visit – Tuesday & Wednesday, 17-18 February
Extra-curricular
NEWS, UPDATES AND RESULTS
The Pedare Extra-curricular Portal is the central hub for information and links to our Sports and Clubs program. Regularly updated, it provides the latest news, announcements, results and important updates on Pedare’s extra-curricular activities and events.
National U16 Cricket Competition
Natasha K (Year 9) was selected to represent South Australia in the National U16 Cricket Competition held in Launceston in January. She had a great experience growing her cricket skills and thriving away from home. SA finished 6th as part of the round robin games but were able beat WA in the final play-offs to secure the 5th position. Well done, Natasha!
State U16 Girls Football Academy
After months of hard work and elite training in the invitation-only State U16 Girls Football Academy, Della M (Year 9) has officially been selected for the final State U16 Girls Team!
It’s been a massive journey, training since December and outperforming a field of 47 athletes in a high-stakes trial game to secure her spot in the final squad of 30.
We wish Della and her team the very best for their upcoming major games this April in South Australia and Victoria. We are so proud of your dedication and can’t wait to see you pull on the state jumper!
COMMUNITY NEWS
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 (https://ttganglican.org.au/) or contact Rick Maude at [email protected] 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 https://www.ttguc.org.au/ or email [email protected]
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 [email protected] You can even check our webpage: https://www.goldengroveuniting.org.au
KEY DATES
Want to enrol your child? Need more info?
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