HARMONY DAY NEWSLETTER
WOW! Another action-packed, colourful and fun-filled Harmony Day celebration for the history books! This year we are proud to have over 60 nationalities represented across our student and staff cohort, who all came together to celebrate our rich diversity. Harmony Week is nationally recognised, and is a time to celebrate Australia’s cultural diversity; promoting inclusiveness, respect, and belonging under the theme "everyone belongs".
Our event was filled with a range of wonderful activities, show-stopping performances, and delicious food from all over the world Thank you to staff and students for wearing your beautiful traditional costumes, getting involved with everything that was on offer, performing on stage, and your help in making the day the best it could possibly be! This event continues to be a highlight for all involved.
Shout out to our wonderful suppliers: Akwaaba African drummers, Arty Umbrellas, and Westoz Wildlife; and to the Western Australia Police Force - Community Engagement Division and Muslim Women’s Support Centre WA for coming along to join in the fun! We really appreciate your support.
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
As we reach the end of Term 1, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a positive and productive start to the school year
Our students have settled into their classes exceptionally well, demonstrating enthusiasm, resilience, and a strong commitment to their learning. It has been wonderful to see new friendships forming, while our returning students have stepped confidently into leadership roles across the school We were also pleased to welcome our Year 11 students into the Student Guild This week, they participated in team-building activities alongside our Year 12 Guild leaders and Student Services staff, helping to strengthen connections and develop leadership skills.
It has been a busy term full of effort and growththank you to all. Wishing everyone a safe and well deserved break.
Throughout the term, students have engaged in a wide range of academic, sporting, and co-curricular opportunities. A highlight was our celebration of Harmony Day, where we proudly recognised the rich cultural diversity within our school community. Students and staff shared traditional food, cultural dress, and dance, representing many nationalities, including our First Nations students. It was a vibrant and enjoyable event, with fantastic food and engaging activities for all.
We also celebrated Eid with our Harmony Across Borders student group in partnership with Westfield Carousel I would like to thank Mr Waseem Parkar for his efforts in organising the display In addition, students have represented the school in interschool Futsal competitions. These events play an important role in bringing our community together and fostering teamwork, creativity, and confidence.
I would like to acknowledge and thank our dedicated staff for their ongoing hard work and professionalism. Their commitment ensures that every student is both supported and challenged to achieve their best. I also extend my sincere appreciation to our families and community members for your continued partnership with the school your support makes a significant difference Thank you to all the parents and caregivers who attended the Parent Afternoon at the end of the term; working together enables our students to thrive.
As we head into the holiday break, I encourage all students to take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy time with family and friends. Due to the timing of Easter, Term 1 was a short 9 weeks, which means Term 2 will be 11. Use the break wisely so you can return refreshed for Term 2. This will help set the tone for another successful period of learning
We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday 20 April.
Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable holiday and a wonderful Easter.
Ms Mary Anne Morgan, Acting Principal
AWARD WINNERS
SEMESTER 2 2025 SUBJECT AWARDS
Our Achievement Awards for Semester 2, 2025 were presented at our first whole school assembly of the year by our Vice Principal, Ms Mary Anne Morgan, and our Year 12 Student Achievement and Progress Coordinator, Ms T. These awards recognise the top performing student in each course of study. Congratulations to all our winners, and a special mention to Year 12 students, Ida and Amelia (pictured left), who received five and four awards respectively. What an incredible achievement!
Endeavour Awards for the most improved/most hardworking student in each class were also awarded this term through Advocacy. Well done all!
CITY OF GOSNELLS EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP
We were honoured to welcome Councillor Diane Lloyd from the City of Gosnells to our assembly to present their Education Scholarship to Year 12 student, Ida Tollefsen (pictured left). Ida was nominated by the school for being a conscientious, hard-working, proactive and kind student who excels in everything she does Her focus and dedication to high standards was noted by all her teachers Not just a high achieving student, but also a truly lovely young woman with an incredibly bright future ahead of her.
PULSE EXHIBITION
At the end of 2025, Year 12 art student, Alyssa Henry, had her art work accepted into the 2026 Pulse Exhibition, which will be on display at the Art Gallery of WA later this year. This is a huge achievement as only a small number of artworks are chosen from across Western Australia.
The selected works provide a window into young people’s private, social and artistic concerns. It is an inspiring, rewarding and insightful look at the world through the minds of our most talented young artists.
Please support Alyssa by visiting the exhibition, which will be on show at The Art Gallery of WA from 16 May – 13 September 2026.
YEAR 11 STUDENT GUILD
Introducing our Year 11 Guild members for 2026: Aicha K, Enoch P, Frank T, Josephine A, Junior T, Kayla C, Kaz B, JP SJ, Musayan M, and Ugyen C. These students were voted by their peers and teachers to represent the entire student body alongside the Year 12 Guild representatives, a truly fantastic achievement.
A huge thank you to all 19 students who nominated and delivered compelling campaign speeches, and congratulations to our elected members!
Our Guild will be the voice for their peers, help make important school decisions, enjoy leadership and team building activities, and fundraise and plan events such as Sevenoaks Got Talent.
I was blown away with the incredible candidates this year
The elected members have really hit the ground running!
Ms Felicity Ivison
IN THE CLASSROOM
DNA WITH MS CUSENS
Did you know that DNA is made up of nucleotides, and each nucleotide contains deoxyribose, 1 of 4 bases, and a phosphate… it’s a lot to remember. So the year 12 General Human Biology class were given the task of making DNA (including all of those components) using lollies.
Students had to decide which lollies would work best and then stick them together in the correct order. Once all the elements were correct, they got to eat their DNA!
What a fun and interactive way to learn. Thanks Ms Cusens!
SUBWAY STATION WITH MR ARMSTRONG
This term, our talented Hospitality students transformed the kitchen into a pop up Subway station, preparing and serving fresh, made to order subs for their peers.
From slicing ingredients to assembling each roll with care, students showcased their practical skills, teamwork, and customer service in a fun, hands on learning experience
A huge well done to everyone involved - including our students and staff customer volunteers for coming along and helping to make this an authentic experience.
ART WITH MS WILTON
Year 12 General Art
As an introduction to Year 12 General Art and to blow out the holiday cobwebs, students completed a short paper cut task. This year, students had to create a design based on the 2026 Chinese New Year - Year of the Horse The results were amazing with such variety and detail
Once on display, the school community were invited to vote for their favourite paper cut. Congratulations to our first place winner, Hakima Sadeqi, and runner up, Samreen Thind. Well done!
Year 11 General Art
This semester the focus is 'food' We have been exploring different foods and media and creating small artworks. So far, the students have created donut and chocolate pieces, are are currently working on their zombie cupcakes.
RUBE GOLDBERG MACHINES WITH MS CUSENS
Our Year 11 General Science in Practice class were given the task of making a Rube Goldberg Machine this term, a machine that uses a variety of steps to complete a simple task. After designing, requesting equipment and considering the safety precautions, students attempted to create their machines with the simple aim of popping a balloon. Students loved the opportunity to get creative and felt super rewarded when it worked!
This term, over 20 students participated in the White Card Certificate here on campus. This is an important qualification, as any person working on a building site must be White Card certified. The training helped students learn about basic workplace safety, focusing on things like spotting hazards, staying safe on a construction site, and what to do in an emergency On completion of the training, students received their White Card, which means they now have a micro-credential qualification as well as the knowledge to work safely on construction sites and in other highrisk jobs. What a great opportunity!
A second group of students will participate in the White Card during Term 2
SPORTS NEWS WHITE CARD
INTERSCHOOL FUTSAL TOURNAMENTS
On Thursday the 26th of March, our boy's futsal team participated in the SSWA Senior Boys Interschool Futsal South Competition. We had a very solid team of experienced players this year, which allowed us to be competitive against some very strong schools.
The team managed to score 18 goals in 4 games, showcasing our attacking abilities. Unfortunately, due to a surprise loss against Lake Joondalup, we didn't make it through to the play-offs. The boys were fantastic throughout the rest of the day and should be very proud of their efforts.
Special shout out to Achnaff Sayon who managed to get 7 goals and was our top scorer of the day Coach Mcleay is very excited to see how our boys go next term in the SSWA Regional Pennants Soccer Competition
On Friday the 27th March we participated in the SSWA Senior Girls Interschool Futsal North Competition. Our team of nine faced a series of very experienced teams; St Andrews Grammar School, Balga SHS, Perth International School and Swan View SHS to list a few. Our girls were amazing, demonstrating resilience, teamwork and positivity throughout the day
Special mention to our goalkeeper, Jerlynn Mae Lanuza, who played every minute of every game, motivating the team and putting on a show with her fantastic saves in goal.
NEW CLUB ALERT! INTRODUCING BADMINTON CLUB
We are very excited to announce the start of the Sevenoaks Badminton Club.
This new club will provide an opportunity for students within the Sevenoaks community to come together and play some badminton, combining a mix of training and games for those who participate to hopefully improve their skills while having fun and meeting new people. Thank you to the Student Guild members for your initiative in making this happen!
GUILD DAY CAMP
The 2026 Student Guild members recently enjoyed an inspiring leadership day camp at Ern Halliday Recreation Camp in Hillarys.
Students and staff embraced the experience with enthusiasm, taking part in a variety of exciting and challenging activities designed to build resilience, confidence, effective communication, and leadership skills. Highlights of the camp included rock climbing, a coastal bike ride, and engaging team-building challenges and obstacle courses.
The Student Guild is a remarkable group of young people who consistently demonstrate a positive commitment to education and proudly serve as outstanding role models within our school community
The students are to be highly commended for their exemplary behaviour, teamwork, and the encouraging way they supported one another throughout the camp.
Year 12 Student Support Coordinator, Mr Cook, said, “I loved seeing the students gain confidence, especially with bike riding, and fully participate in everything that was on offer. This is a truly special group of students and it was an absolute pleasure to be part of the day.”
NEW PARTNERSHIP ALERT
This year, we are pleased to welcome John Hughes Service Centres, located in both East Victoria Park and Welshpool, as new partners in our Workplace Learning program
Earlier this month, we also had several students placed across both centres, and we are grateful for the positive experiences and support they received during their time there.
We currently have James Yap and Jethro Cajayon completing their placements at the East Victoria Park centre, and I had the pleasure of meeting with Mark, their supervisor, yesterday to see how they are progressing. Mark has been incredibly supportive, understanding the needs of our students and keeping them on track for a strong and successful outcome. Both James and Jethro have shared how much they enjoy their time there.
We are also pleased to see John Hughes Service Centres embracing our college values and supporting the adult ethos we promote Their team has shown a genuine commitment to guiding students in a professional environment and reinforcing the expectations that help them grow into confident, work ready young adults.
We sincerely appreciate all our employers for their ongoing support and commitment to providing meaningful workplace learning opportunities for our students Their contribution makes a real difference in helping young people build confidence, skills, and pathways for the future.
CAREERSPACE
Did you know that each month, our dedicated Careers Advisor, Ms Walsh, creates a fantastic Careerspace Newsletter, which features upcoming events in the careers space, job opportunities, TAFE and University news including upcoming Open Days, plus a career spotlight?!
Check out the latest edition by visiting the College website or our Jobs Board on Connect.
HARMONY ACROSS BORDERS
This term, students involved in HAB's 'Ramadan Arts Project' proudly displayed their artwork at Westfield Carousel, sharing creative reflections on what Ramadan means to them. Students' artworks explored topics like: fasting, prayer, gratitude, kindness, family and community.
The exhibition offered members of the public an opportunity to engage with the students’ work and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and spiritual importance of Ramadan Displaying the artworks in a public space promoted inclusion, understanding, and respect for diversity within the broader community.
Members of the Westfield Carousel media team also came to our campus to shoot a video detailing the students' artistic process.
A huge shout out to Patricia Narciso, our President, for organising the artwork workshops and supporting students throughout the creative process. We also thank Ms Dani for making the connection with Westfield Carousel and to Mr Parkar for coordinating this wonderful opportunity.
We are extremely proud of our students for their creativity and meaningful contributions and look forward to more opportunities like this in the future
VALENTINE’S DAY
On Thursday, February 12th, staff sprinkled a little Valentine's Day magic, and our students used their creativity to spread the love!
Our fabulous Student Services team organised a bunch of super sweet activities for students to celebrate the occasion.
Our foyer was absolutely packed with students excited to get involved with the fun activities on offer: bracelet making, lolly bags, heart shaped notes, cards, crosswords, picture frames and more!
WESTFIELD CAROUSEL RAMADAN DISPLAY
COTTESLOE SCULPTURES BY THE SEA EXCURSION
Sculptures by the Sea returned this year after a brief hiatus and it’s safe to say it did not disappoint. With the beautiful and iconic Cottesloe Beach as a backdrop, how could you not be impressed the by the exhibits on display? As always, it was a feast for the eyes and our students enjoyed getting up close with their favourite creations.
This year, there was art on display from more than 70 artists from 14 countries, and many of the sculptures were huge and colourful. This international event in its 21 year remains one of Australia’s largest free public events. st
Students from The Academy joined the crowds to enjoy this event on a beautiful autumnal day As always there was something for everyone, ranging from the abstract to the kinetic, and the figurative to the environmental. One of our favourites was Emperor of the Abrolhos by Tim Storrier.
One of the best parts about this event it that you don’t really need to know much about art to enjoy it! This is a great day out and a wonderful opportunity to see how other people look at the world
If you missed it this year, put in your diary for 2027. Students all agree, it is well worth a visit!
FREMANTLE PRISON EXCURSION
The Fremantle Prison excursion is always a great day out for The Academy, but our guide Ang, a retired teacher, made our visit this term even more memorable
Our first stop was the prison’s reception building where prisoners were searched and numbered, showered and redressed in the convict uniform, which they would wear for the entirety of their sentence.
The tour of the main building and the cells for the men was next We were all amazed by the artwork in some of the cells; the same cells that housed prisoners for 23 hours a day with just a narrow bed, a stool and a bucket for comfort. We wondered how such brutal conditions could house such moving images.
The most shocking fact of the day was in the juvenile division, which housed Samuel Andrews, Fremantle Prison’s youngest ever offender, at just eight years old That was until we had a vivid description of how the cat-o-nine tails was employed to cause maximum pain and torture for prisoners who stepped out of line.
Visiting the prison is not particularly “fun”, but it is a humbling experience in which our students said they would recommend. It is an immersive experience at one of Perth’s most famous historical sites
PREMIER’S READING CHALLENGE
The Premier’s Reading Challenge is back! From the 23 of March until the 12 of June, you can log what you’ve read and enter to win some incredible prizes.
There are hundreds of weekly prizes to win including tech gadgets, book vouchers and e-gift cards. The prizes are drawn randomly so every book logged could be a winner!
Sign up today and let us know if you are one of the lucky winners. See Elaine in the Library if you have any questions and to start borrowing books, including ebooks, for free!
Join the Premier’s Reading Challenge. Turn pages. Escape reality. Flex your brain.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY AWARDS BREAKFAST AT OPTUS STADIUM
In celebration of International Women’s Day, numerous staff members and students attended the Department’s Women of Achievement Awards at Optus Stadium
Our very own Dr Jennet Hansen was the recipient of the award in 2025 and was given the opportunity to speak to the audience of her journey over the past 12 months. Her eloquence, in front of 700 people, was amazing. Her focus on culture and colour and believing what is possible was inspirational. Congratulations again Jennet, we are all so proud of you and your determination to ensure that all our First Nation Students have opportunity to achieve success.
The event was energised by keynote speaker, Liz Ellis AO, former Captain of the Diamonds Netball team, who shared powerful insights and encouragement. Liz highlighted some of the challenges in her era of getting women in sport a profile
A special congratulations to Patricia Levitzke Gray from the Shenton College Deaf Education Centre, winner of the Education Women in Leadership Award for 2026.
STUDENT SERVICES ACTIVITIES
Sevenoaks celebrated International Women's Day with an inspiring guest speaker, Monique Sutti-Norwood. Monique, is a business owner, life coach, mentor, and a Sevenoaks Alumni Since leaving Sevenoaks, Monique has lived a very eclectic life and is currently the owner of Bad and Boujee, a premium hair brand that makes affordable hair pieces for women.
Monique shared her inspiring story with students from the Academy, Follow the Dream and Year 12 Student Guild. Celebrations continued during the break with music and hair demonstrations. Thank you to the hospitality students who also made 300 delicious cup cakes for us to enjoy!
FOLLOW THE DREAM
Kaya and welcome to our Term 1 edition of Follow the Dream News,
What a start it has been, and a powerful reminder that Follow the Dream is more than just a program; it is a community
As we reflected during last year’s 21-year anniversary celebrations, we were reminded of the profound impact this program has had on generations of young people. Follow the Dream continues to create pathways, open doors, and empower our students to believe in their potential and strive for excellence.
This term, that impact has already been evident Our students have returned with focus, determination, and a strong sense of purpose, supporting one another, embracing opportunities, and setting the tone for a successful year ahead. Enjoy some of the highlights from Term 1.
KAYA 2026: STARTING TOGETHER STRONG
We started the term on the very first day with a powerful workshop led by Aaliyah Nestoridis, Alumni and business owner of Kaarla Koort Boodja (Fire in Heart and Country) to bring our students together to connect, reflect, and set meaningful goals for the year ahead. It was an opportunity for students to unite as a cohort, strengthen relationships, and be reminded of the importance of purpose, commitment, and supporting one another on their journeys The session set a strong and positive tone for the term, grounding our students in both aspiration and community.
KOOLARK BREAKFAST
To link our community, Follow the Dream hosted a hot breakfast at Sevenoaks. The Koolark Team and Student Services staff were up early at 6:00am to get things in motion. The smell of sizzling bacon and eggs filled the air and welcomed families as they arrived.
Families, students, and staff came together to share a meal, have a yarn, and connect in a relaxed and friendly space There was plenty of laughter and easy conversation, with everyone taking the time to get to know one another and learn more about the support available for students.
It was a great reminder that when we create space to come together like this, we strengthen the connections that help our young people feel supported.
2026 NAIDOC SHIRT - IN PRODUCTION!
We are so excited to unveil the 2026 NAIDOC shirt for staff, proudly designed in collaboration with our talented students and alumna artist, Jasmyn!
Celebrating the theme “50 Years Deadly”, the design honours five decades of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achievement, culture, and resilience
Staff can’t wait to wear it during NAIDOC Week, proudly showcasing our connection to culture, community, and creativity.
WALKING TOGETHER: MENTORING SESSIONS
Nudge Mentor Matthew Stephan (Sevenoaks Alumni) spent time with our Follow the Dream and Sevenoaks Academy boys, sharing his life experiences and insights into pathways beyond school. He spoke openly about work, including FIFO opportunities, and the realities that come with it, giving the boys a real-world perspective to think about. The session was relaxed and honest, with plenty of questions and good conversation, and it was great to see the boys engaging and connecting with someone who could speak from experience.
STRONGER TOGETHER: TEAM BUILDING WITH LAA
In 2026 we are proud to continue our partnership with Langford Aboriginal Association (LAA) with sessions in collaboration with Mercy Care and LAA team members.
Our students took part in a fun and engaging team-building session this term, where they were challenged to work collaboratively to build a tower out of spaghetti Through creativity, communication, and problem-solving, students worked in teams to design and build the tallest structure The activity not only brought plenty of laughter and energy, but also highlighted the importance of teamwork, leadership, and supporting one another; key values we continue to build within the Follow the Dream community.
CELEBRATING HARMONY TOGETHER
Follow the Dream proudly contributed to Harmony Day activities, celebrating the rich diversity that makes our school community so strong. Follow the Dream students were active participants in the Acknowledgment of Country, setting up a display, preparing indigenous foods and performing cultural dances. Our students embraced the opportunity to come together, share culture, and promote inclusion, respect, and understanding
DR
HANSEN,
OVER & OUT
After 21 incredible years coordinating Follow the Dream, I will be taking a whole year off. It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside our students, families, mentors, and staff, and watch generations of young people grow, achieve, and follow their dreams
Please join me in welcoming the amazing Stefanie Bruder, who will be coordinating the program for Terms 2, 3, and 4 in 2026, as well as Term 1 in 2027. I have every confidence that Stefanie will continue to guide our students with care, energy, and inspiration.
I look forward to returning in Term 2, 2027, and can’t wait to see the continued growth, achievements, and successes of our Follow the Dream community.
- Dr Jernnet Hansen
HOUSEKEEPING
2026 YEAR 12 COLLEGE BALL
APRIL2026TERM1 NEWSLETTER
In case you haven’t heard, our annual College Ball is coming up on Friday xxxxxxxx 24 July (Week 1, Term 3) We are excited to announce that this year’s theme is Hollywood: A Night at the Oscars! We will be heading to The Westin Perth in their Grand Ballroom for our event, which will feature a delicious buffet meal, DJ, professional photographer, photobooth, mocktails, and a huge dance floor. Permission forms will be released in Term 2. Remember, you must have your Good Standing, including attendance above 90%, to be eligible to attend.
Our contributions and charges incentive is back! Pay your school fees or enter into a payment plan by Friday 3 July, and you’ll automatically go in the draw to win a $250 Coles Myer voucher! Call (08) 6235 7200 for more information. CONTRIBUTIONS AND CHARGES INCENTIVE
AMA PARENT INFORMATION SESSION