I hope this message finds you all in good health and high spirits. These past few weeks have been undeniably challenging for our school, our families and the entire global Jewish community. The recent events in Israel have touched us deeply, and the trauma we collectively experience has brought to the fore the importance of looking after both our physical safety and our emotional wellbeing.

As your new principal, I am deeply committed to ensuring not only the physical safety of our students and staff but also their emotional well-being. The distressing images and rhetoric that have permeated our lives, along with the disturbing rise in anti-Semitic sentiments, can have a profound impact on our mental health. It is crucial that we come together as a community to support one another during these trying times.

We have taken steps to enhance security measures to protect our physical safety, but now it's time to turn our focus inward and care for our emotional health. I implore you to be mindful of your consumption of media, especially social media. It's essential to put our phones and devices away at times, granting ourselves a much-needed break from the overwhelming influx of information.

Difficult though it is, for both adults and young people, we must be disciplined in this endeavour. It seems trite, but I nonetheless implore you to take time to nurture your wellbeing by going for walks, engaging in regular exercise, eating healthily and spending quality time with friends and family. Don't underestimate the power of silliness and laughter in relieving stress. Engaging in these activities is not only an act of self-care but also a way to ensure we have the emotional wherewithal to continue to support our children and also our brothers and sisters in Israel.

While our hearts are heavy with concern, we should remember that what truly makes a difference is sending messages of love and uniting as an international community. The outpouring of support we have received from both within and outside our Jewish community is heartwarming. Take a moment to notice those who stand with us and thank them for their unwavering support.

I'd like to express my deep gratitude to all non-Jewish members of the Masada community who have stood by our side and supported us tirelessly. It is a testament to the strength of our broader community, and we are truly blessed to have such allies.

We must also be mindful of what we expose our children to during these tumultuous times. Every child is unique, and their developmental age and range will determine how they process and understand the events taking place in Israel. We are working diligently to strike a balance between fostering a deep love for Israel and providing a supportive community that safeguards their emotional wellbeing.

I want to emphasise that now is the time for love, unity, and positive community action. By taking care of ourselves and each other, we can provide the support and strength needed to navigate these trying times. Together, we can be a beacon of hope and resilience for our students and families.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible community and know that my door is always open for any concerns, questions, or simply to share a warm moment of connection. We will overcome these challenges together, strengthened by our shared love for Masada College and our unwavering commitment to one another.

On another note, Friday 27^th October was World Teachers Day. I take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to all of our teachers for their dedication, passion and commitment to our students.

Our teachers go above and beyond every day to ensure that our students receive the best possible education. They not only impart knowledge, but also instil in our students a love of learning, a sense of curiosity and a strong work ethic. They are also mentors, role models, and confidants to our students.

Our teachers are the heart and soul of our community. They are the ones who make our College a place where students can thrive and reach their full potential.

Please join me in thanking our teachers for everything they do. They are truly the best!

A busy and celebratory feeling marked the end of last term with our annual RU OK Day, a trip to the theatre to watch Wicked, Rosh Hashanah, raising thousands of dollars for Pink Stumps Day and saying our final farewells to our Year 12 graduates of 2023 with prizes and certificates presented at their Valedictory Ceremony. These are just some of the many cherished memories for our students and families.

What faced our students, staff, College and community at the beginning of the new term was unprecedented in the experience of many. What can be said, in and amongst the shock, the devastation, solemn feeling and despair that we have all felt at various times over the recent weeks, is that we have witnessed our community respond. A community coming together to support one another and a community united in its resolve. With adversity, we stand together, praying for peace as we stand with Israel. Our students and staff are being well cared for at Masada, however, if there is anything we can do to support further, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Mazel Tov to our Year 12 students who have navigated the final hurdle of their schooling over recent weeks. They have shown their inclination to work hard as well as resilience and positivity when completing their HSC Examinations. We look forward to celebrating with our students at their Formal and when we receive their results.

The term ahead is filled with several landmark events and activities.

In a change to our schedule, all Year 7-10 students will have their Yearly Examinations in Week 6. Whilst we encourage our students to place their full effort into all they do, we realise this can be a stressful time for our students. NESA has set up a Healthy HSC Hub which provides resources for studying and self-care. Although this is aimed at HSC students, I encourage all of our students to take a look.

Following their exams and feedback, review and goal setting, students in Year 7-9 will embark on two innovative weeks of learning. Our Head of Learning and Teaching, Jen Grace, alongside our Learning and Teaching coach, Jonathan Baker and the Ignition committee members, Kevin Yau, Robyn Grana and Marnie Davies have guided our teachers to launch our second iteration of Ignition - our entrepreneurial cross-curriculum project. In a communication to our community, Jen commented: “At Masada we are always exploring how to help our students to develop curious, critical, collaborative and creative mindsets and have placed these key learning dispositions at the centre of our unique programme design. Students will not experience the traditional curriculum during Ignition and will have the opportunity to explore content and knowledge from multiple perspectives as they engage with their curiosities, extend their critical and creative thinking skill set and invest in a fully collaborative team effort to unravel the mystery of the projects! We will see learning diversify in unique and truly inspirational ways! Ignition has been designed by the facilitation team to offer enough scope for personalised and authentic learning to suit student interest and preference.” I would like to thank Jen, our Ignition team and our passionate educators, for their talented execution of the experience and for their passion and commitment to innovative learning opportunities for our students. I would also like to thank our new and existing community entrepreneurs who will join us for the project to act as inspirational mentors and judges for the final competition.

Our Year 10 students will also have an opportunity to come together for a special event in lieu of their MIT trip this year. We will be communicating further details with parents and students in due course.

Finally, our newly appointed School Captains, Ricky and Arin, are already ably leading our Prefect team and the HSC cohort of 2024 as they commence their HSC studies. The kind and hard-working nature of the cohort will carry them through the challenging year ahead, with many opportunities to enjoy the final milestones of their High School career.

If I can be of assistance at any time, please reach out to me by email: rgill@staff.masada.nsw.edu.au or by phone: 02 9449 3744

As we approach the end of year at Masada College, take a moment to reflect on the achievements and growth that have defined our school community. It has been a year filled with learning, collaboration, and resilience, and we are immensely proud of the accomplishments of our students, teachers, and staff in what has been a challenging year.

The Junior School is currently abuzz with activity as we eagerly prepare for our final events and celebrations of the year. Our Chanukah concerts and presentation morning are highlights, providing cherished opportunities for our community to gather, celebrate, reflect, and share meaningful moments. I extend a warm invitation and hope to see you at one of these special end of year events.

Gratitude to Junior School Teachers:
At this time, I would like to extend my gratitude to all of the teachers in the Junior School for their tireless dedication throughout the year. Their commitment to providing enriching learning experiences, both within and beyond the classroom, enhances our students’ academic and personal growth.

Farewells:
As we approach the close of the year, we bid a fond farewell to some valued members of the Masada team. With sadness, we say goodbye to Mrs Simone Sharples, Miss Lauren Ford, Rabbi Meyers and Morah Ruth Yahalom. Each of them has contributed significantly, and their dedication will be deeply missed by staff, students, and the broader community. We also thank Mrs Jan Stuart for the additional support she has provided to Year 4 in the second half of the year.

Welcoming New Additions in 2024:
Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of new staff members in 2024, some of whom may already be familiar to you and your children. Details about our newest additions will be shared in due course, and we look forward to embracing fresh perspectives and talents within our Masada family.

As the year draws to a close, I extend my warmest wishes to our entire community for a well deserved break. May this time be an opportunity for rejuvenation, allowing you to recharge and spend quality moments with family, friends, and loved ones.

Karen Gunasekara
Head of Junior School

“The adventure of life is to learn. The purpose of life is to grow. The nature of life is to change. The challenge of life is to overcome. The essence of life is to care. The opportunity of like is to serve. The secret of life is to dare. The spice of life is to befriend. The beauty of life is to give.” — William Arthur Ward

We have had a range of excellent incursions and excursions being organized for our students over the past months. Thank you to all of the staff for creating these learning experiences for our students.

Thank you to all of our students who made the most of these opportunities and who have shared an account below. Enjoy reading about their highlights!

Wicked Theatre Excursion
I had so much fun going to see Wicked at the Sydney Lyric Theatre. The experience was helpful in enhancing our drama skills - showcasing different techniques we had learnt in class. All of the actors were amazing at remembering lines, projecting their voice and exaggerating their movements. After seeing Wicked, my classes drama skills greatly improved as we all could reflect on what we had seen and what we had liked. Thank you so much Mrs Grace and the rest of the staff for all the organisation that went into that day! It was such a wonderful show to watch! By Jaida Walt

In the last days of Term 3, me and my class went to Sydney Lyric to go to the one and only, Wicked! At first, I didn’t know what this play was and what to expect from it. I remember walking up the countless stairs to get to the theatre, where many people were there. I thought to myself, ‘Huh, this is a lot of people. This is more people than I have ever seen go into a movie theatre.' I settled my bag into a room and watched Act I. I was thinking, ‘Really, a 2-hour long play? I hope this does not bore me!.' But little did I know, as a student who has never watched a play, that this was amazing! Everything about it, the lighting, the acting, the singing, the props and the references to the Wizard of Oz make everything very well done! Everyone in the play acted very well in their characters and sang well, with catchy lyrics and humour. Nothing in this entire experience was not perfect. By the time Act I was finished, I was so excited to watch Act II. It was one of the best things I have ever seen! Then, when I came home, I wanted to make a play like that. Everyone can act well, make songs that get the audience's attention, and make great jokes. In this experience, I would thank everyone who organised this excursion and obviously Mrs Grace for being the key and centre of it all. That was stunning. I’m obsessed with theatre and Wicked now! Andy Tang

Writers Workshop
In Term 3, I was lucky enough to have had the opportunity to go to an English workshop. The goal of the workshop was to improve my writing skills and it was so much fun! We had Rawah Arja come in and talk with us about how her journey writing a book and it was just so interesting! Rawah Arja is a writer and teacher and her first novel The F Team has been shortlisted for numerous literary awards including the Ethel Turner Prize for Young People’s Literature and the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Writing for Young Adults. My favourite part of the workshop was when we would all have 2 minutes to write a story and then we had to pass out books to a random person and they had 2 minutes to write before passing it on and the final story’s were so funny and entertaining. If given the opportunity to write for fun and extend my skills. Thank you to our English teachers for organizing this for us to enjoy. Ella Levi

Mid Autumn Festival
A few weeks ago we had the amazing opportunity of learning about the Chinese Mid Autumn festival, and we got to make beautiful lanterns using paddle pop sticks, hot glue and paper. I had so much fun with my friends making our lanterns and using hot glue to make such a cool, and detailed lantern. I found hot gluing the paddle pops to the paper quite difficult, although eventually got the hang of it. From this activity I learnt so much about the mid autumn festival, why mooncakes are eaten and why lanterns are lit on this special occasion. I would like to thank both the Chinese and Hebrew teachers for organising this experience and educating us on the Chinese mid autumn festival. Coco Braher

Chinese Excursion Years 9-10
During this term, our Chinese class embarked on an excursion, visiting a traditional garden and the local Chinatown. The serenity of the garden and the bustling energy of Chinatown provided a stark yet harmonious contrast. While I relished the opportunity to immerse myself in the rich tapestry of Chinese culture, navigating the crowded streets of Chinatown posed a slight challenge! This experience honed my observational skills and adaptability, traits I recognise will serve me well in varied contexts throughout life. I'd like to extend my gratitude to our teachers for making this insightful excursion possible. Sherman Yan

Listening is one of the loudest forms of kindness - Anonymous

Recently during a conversation with a colleague, I was reminded of the importance of stopping to really listen, rather than simply waiting to reply with a quick response or solution. The reflection was around how we grow as teachers through our career - when a new teacher steps into the classroom for the first time, their thoughts are often centred around what they are going to say, or what they are going to do next. As they grow in confidence and experience, there is a shift in focus and their students’ words and actions become the centre of their teaching practice. This is a powerful move as educators see their learners as active participants in and contributors to their educational journey.

This exchange encouraged us to consider more generally how things could be different if our own thoughts and ideas were not always at the centre of what we say and do. How might our learners' interactions with others be different if we helped them to consider situations from a perspective other than their own?

In this column, I have previously mentioned a card game called, The Art of Children’s Conversation. Initially, I thought it a little odd for a game to have been created around something that we are doing all of the time - talking! However, on closer examination this game is about much more than a quick chat. Its aim is to not only increase confidence and develop communication skills but to also encourage players to learn about their teammates through talking and listening, while having fun along the way.

Here are a few questions for your next dinner table conversation to encourage us to think from someone else’s perspective as well as our own…

• How are you a good friend to someone else?

• What makes you proud?

• How can you tell the difference between something that is right and something that is wrong?

• What is special to you about where you live?

• When is it challenging to be patient?

• Where is a place that you would like to explore?

• What is something that makes you really happy?

Masada College Early Learning Centre 2025 - Enrolling Now
Masada College offers classes for two, three and four year olds.
SUMMER Monday through Friday - 7:30am to 6:00pm
WINTER Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - 7:30am to 6pm and Friday - 7:30am to 4:15pm
All food is included. If you have a child this age or know someone that does, please contact the Enrolments office to begin the process to secure a place in our beautiful purpose built facility. Please encourage anyone you know not currently at Masada to contact the enrolments office at enrolments@staff.masada.nsw.edu.au or register for a Centre Tour via our website as we would love for them to join us.

Kindy 2024 and 2025 - Enrolling Now
Please encourage anyone you know not currently at Masada to contact the enrolments office at enrolments@staff.masada.nsw.edu.au or register for a School Tour via our website as we would love for them to join us.

Year 7, 2024 and 2025 - Enrolling Now
Please encourage anyone you know not currently at Masada to contact the enrolments office at enrolments@staff.masada.nsw.edu.au or register for a School Tour via our website as we would love for them to join us.

NSW Jewish Climate Network (JCN) - are a growing network of Aussie Jews stepping up into the climate challenge. JCN Victoria, recently facilitated five workshops for NSW Jewish organisations, including Masada College. JCN's initiative provided an opportunity to encourage others to understand & engage in the climate challenge. Click the link provided https://www.jcn.org.au

Workshops were focused on:
- The Journey Begins - cohorts establishing their main reasons for participating
- Policy and People - developing a climate policy and governance frameworks
- Getting Your Emissions to Zero - examining the main sources and being financially-viable.
- Finance & Fossil Fuels - exploring the major risks by an organisation
- Climate Communication - presented a range of angles an organisation might use to share the success of their journey

Message from the Chief Rabbi
JCN recently received a video message from Chief Rabbi of the Commonwealth, Ephraim Mirvis, endorsing the Climate Shabbat project initiated by JCN, which congregations in the US, UK and Canada are now also participating in. Rabbi Mirvis states:

"We have a sacred imperative to look after our environment, and to tackle the enormous challenges of climate change. That is why I applaud the concept of having a Climate Shabbat. I call upon Jewish communities right around the Commonwealth to rally together in order to continue what we are doing, and to do even more, in order to ensure that what we're doing in our backyard will not negatively affect anybody, anywhere else on the globe."

You can view the video message here.

Over the last month the Yellow Room children have been most engaged in their clay projects. The children had the opportunity to create whatever they wanted with the clay, and it was lovely to see them work with great care and focus to bring their creations to life. Some of the beautiful pieces they have made include cups, baskets, spoons, butterflies, bears, a rainbow, a little recycling bin, and dishes for “treasures”.

Clay, similarly to playdough, provides children with an opportunity to be creative and use their imagination to create 3D forms. However, clay is a much tougher medium and helps the children to develop more strength in their fingers and hands to squeeze, pinch, roll and manipulate. The clay also has a different texture, consistency and smell providing the children with an interesting new sensory experience. It also allows the children to create long lasting shapes through the firing process. We explained that after we finished making our clay works in the classroom, they would go into a “very hot oven” called a kiln that will make our pieces solid so we can use them.

Now most of our pieces have returned to the classroom, we have put them on display in our “Clay Museum” for all the children, teachers, and parents to see! Everyone is very impressed with the children’s beautiful works, and we are excited for these to be used and displayed around our classroom and at everyone’s homes.

Noah's Ark is a timeless tale that captivates the imaginations of both young and old, making it a perfect choice for teaching 2-year-olds about important life lessons. As the little ones gather in a cozy circle, the story of Noah and his ark unfolds, filled with animals marching two by two. Their wide eyes light up with wonder as they learn about the power of compassion and the importance of taking care of the world around them. The children learnt songs about the animals and enjoyed moving like specific animals minimcing marching onto Noah’s ark.

What a beautiful kindergarten orientation morning, the eager faces of children were wonderful to see.The day commenced with a craft activity where kids cut out the letter "M," their hands skillfully wielding scissors, filling the air with laughter. Next, Crunch and Sip brought them together, enjoying crisp fruits and refreshing sips of water, fostering a sense of community. Morning tea allowed children to bond and share their excitement for their next journey.

In group time, children formed a circle, enthusiastically practicing syllable sounds. Their exploration of the new kindergarten classroom was an adventure, uncovering vibrant learning corners and intriguing play spaces. The room resonated with laughter and curiosity as new friendships blossomed, making this a perfect start to their educational journey.

Masada College’s Annual Pink Stumps Day celebrations were in full swing. Students in the Junior School wore pink in support of The McGrath Foundation and enjoyed pink creaming soda floats at recess. Through the numerous initiatives throughout the day including; the pink breakfast, silent auction, raffle tickets, sausage sizzle lunch, and the generosity of Masada families through donations, the college raised a whopping $9500. Kol Hakavod to our families and children for supporting this worthy cause and spreading their light in the world.

Public speaking is not just about eloquence or having a commanding presence on stage. It is a vital skill that empowers individuals to convey their ideas, inspire, persuade, and connect with others effectively. In a society where the ability to communicate clearly and confidently is increasingly essential, events like the 2023 Public Speaking Competition play a pivotal role in nurturing and celebrating this skill.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this year's competition was the quality of impromptu speeches. These spontaneous talks are a true test of a speaker's ability to think on their feet, organise their thoughts quickly, and deliver a compelling message with limited preparation. Impromptu speeches challenge participants to harness their creativity, knowledge, and rhetorical skills in the moment, making them an invaluable exercise for personal and professional growth.

Participants at the 2023 competition left us in awe with their ability to tackle impromptu topics with grace and confidence. Their poise under pressure and their capacity to turn unexpected challenges into opportunities were truly impressive. These skills are not only essential in public speaking but are also transferrable to various aspects of life, including problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership. With commitment and practice, anyone can become a proficient and captivating speaker.

Congratulations to the winners and all participants for a memorable and inspiring event.

2023 Winners

Stage 1: Gil Danieli

Stage 2: Samuel Freedman

Stage 3: Tayla Maltz

The Junior School SRC helped to spread a bit of kindness by visiting the San Hospital ahead of Masada College's Pink Stumps Day. Students from Years 2 to 6 made very special cards with words of encouragement for the patients undergoing cancer treatment, and cards of thanks to the nurses who provide incredible care and support. We are so proud of our students who brightened the spirits of all those that they met.

The K-2 Swim and Survive program at Terrey Hills Swim School last term was a resounding success, leaving both students and instructors beaming with satisfaction. The primary focus of this program was to combine learning with fun, and it certainly delivered on that front. The students had a fantastic time while simultaneously honing their swimming skills and, perhaps more importantly, their understanding of personal survival and water safety.

Over the 2 week program, students engaged in a series of carefully designed activities and exercises that not only improved their swimming techniques but also instilled in them a strong sense of water safety awareness. From mastering the basics of buoyancy and treading water. These children left the program equipped with invaluable life skills.

The Swim and Survive program at Terrey Hills Swim School undoubtedly left a lasting impact, not only on their swimming abilities but on their understanding of personal survival and water safety, ensuring that these skills will serve them well in the years to come.

Together is key, 2023

We head into term 4 thinking of and praying for the people and State of Israel. May Hashem bless them, may the hostages be returned safely and may our soldiers be shielded from harm.

We’re so close to the end of the year, we can almost touch it.

This term holds endless possibilities and so much excitement - Years 3-6 School Camp, Chanukah, and the culmination of Year 6’s incredible and unforgettable primary school journey.

We cannot forget the initiatives the Year 6’s have added to the school, including enriching activities such as Thursday Funday, which has continued throughout the year, Word Wizard which improves and expands vocabularies in a creative and intriguing way and Muffin, the Toucan that has successfully improved punctuality. There is also an environmental team made up of Year 6 students ensuring that all kids are conscious of, and looking after, the environment around them.

We reminisce about all the milestones on our memorable journey, with smiles of joy. This year’s Year 6 cohort has loved every moment of being the leaders of this very special school. Together.

We look forward to all that term 4 brings.

Your Junior School captains Ryan and Micah 😄

In a day filled with excitement, empowerment, and self-discovery, our Year 5 students recently participated in a Leadership Day facilitated by Burn Bright. The day was packed with engaging activities designed to nurture the leadership potential within each student, drawing inspiration from iconic superheroes like the Hulk and Buzz Lightyear.

From the very beginning, our young leaders were fully engaged. The day kicked off with an interactive Superhero Guess Who game, setting the tone for an exciting day. They delved into the art of having difficult conversations and explored the significance of fostering strong friendships. Students learned that good friendships not only provide help and support but also help in overcoming challenges and building trust within a community.

One of the key takeaways was the notion of thinking 'we' rather than 'me'. A true superhero leader embodies this philosophy, considering the needs of others and acting in their best interest. They embrace collaboration, support, and fairness, always striving for win-win solutions and ensuring everyone feels included.

As they transition into Year 6 leaders, the students now have the golden opportunity to extend their friendship and support to the wider school community. Effective communication lies at the heart of this. Students were encouraged to actively engage with peers outside their year group, enriching their interactions and forging deeper connections.

Leadership, as defined during the day's discussions, is about being a role model. It's about guiding and teaching, a responsibility that our Year 5 students embraced with enthusiasm. Through creative exercises like drawing their ultimate leader and a lively dance-off, they discovered the superhero quality of courage, learning to step out of their comfort zones and inspire others through their actions.

With the skills and values instilled on this Leadership Day, our Year 5 students are ready to face Year 6 with confidence. They are prepared to be the fantastic friends and leaders our school community deserves. Watch out world, our superheroes are on the rise!

On Wednesday the 18th of October, the winners of the David Selinger Memorial Eisteddfod had the opportunity to see the Sydney Symphony Orchestra perform at City Recital Hall in Angel Place. Accompanied by Mr Burgess and Ms Peisley, they experienced an interactive concert titled “Cultural Connections Through Music”. On their musical journey around the world, our students were delighted to hear a range of pieces by Australian, Chinese, Spanish, Hungarian and American composers. They were invited to play ‘air castanets’ and learnt a range of body percussion rhythms, all tied to the composers’ cultural identities. There were wonderful moments where student faces lit up as they drew their own connections to what they listened to, recognising that the music belonged to their own culture, or that they had in fact learnt arrangements of some of the pieces themselves. The uplifting performance by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra was thoroughly enjoyed by all and left our students feeling inspired.

Congratulations once again to the our eisteddfod winners for their dedication and hard work. We hope to one day see them performing on stage and inspiring other students.

At the end of Term 3 the Junior School celebrated in anticipation of Rosh Hashanah and learned about Yom Kippur and its meaning of reflection and repentance. Students enjoyed an assembly led by the High School Jewish Informal Team who through hands-on experiences and a great sense of ruach immersed the students in the feeling of celebration of the Jewish New Year.

Students fulfilled the mitzvah of dipping apples in honey, listening to the Shofar on a daily basis and writing cards of well wishes to family, friends and the wider community.

On Thursday the 7th of September we took 48 Masada students to compete at the ASSISA Athletics Carnival. This was the largest number of students EVER who have qualified in the Junior School to make it to ASSISA. This day was held at ES Marks Stadium, Anzac Parade in Moore Park. This was the first occasion where numerous year 2 students experienced competing in an outside school competition. There were nerves but also a lot of excitement about the day ahead. It was a hot day and there were many students who competed in more than 2-3 events. Some students were going from a track event to a field event with very little rest time. All students should be commended on their outstanding sportsmanship and resilience during the day. There were many students who came first in their heats and narrowly missed out on making it to the CIS competition. Congratulations again to the 48 students who made it through to ASSISA, we look forward to seeing you compete hopefully again for Masada at next year's competition.

Year 6 students recently participated in a Living Historians Evening, presenting their understanding of the Holocaust in a deeply poignant manner. Through various media forms, students showcased their empathy and awareness of this historically significant and tragic event.

During this event, the students utilised a range of creative mediums to convey their understanding of the Holocaust. They displayed remarkable empathy in their presentations, which included powerful narratives, artwork, short films, and heartfelt speeches. Through these diverse forms of expression, the Year 6 students effectively communicated the human stories and emotional impact of the Holocaust.

The Living Historians Evening was a moving and educational experience that not only highlighted the students' knowledge of this dark period in history but also their ability to connect with the survivors on a deeply empathetic level. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of teaching history with compassion and a commitment to never forget the lessons of the past.

On Thursday the 12th of October, Week 1 of Term 4 Mrs Maltz and Miss Soutar took 19 students to Baptist Redeemer School to compete in an action packed, fun filled gala day. 10 girls in year 5 and 6 competed in the Newcombe Ball competition and 9 boys in year 5 and 6 competed in the Oztag competition. Both competitions were very competitive with the schools they were playing against. All students showed outstanding sportsmanship and resilience on the day competing in very hot conditions. The girls managed to win a tough close semi-final and then they played the grand final with a large win. The girls were extremely excited with their achievements on the day and were lucky enough to take home a medal. The boys in OzTag came 5th overall, winning their 5th vs 6th play-off game. The boys came up against some very challenging schools and athletes so 5th overall was a great achievement!

Our Kindergarten cohort and their families came together to celebrate Shabbat in a unique and memorable way. This heartwarming event showcased the children's learning and provided an opportunity for them to bond with their parents through traditional Shabbat songs and challah baking.

The students, with the guidance of their teachers, had been preparing for this special Shabbat experience during class time. They learned about the significance of Shabbat in Jewish tradition, the lighting of the candles, the blessings over the wine and bread, and the joy of spending quality time with family.

To culminate the experience, students along with their parents plaited challah to have at their own Shabbat tables.

Term four started with a special assembly to encourage increasing acts of kindness, Torah study and prayer, in response to the situation in Israel. An ‘Israel day of solidarity’ took place for all students across ELC-12. Everyone wore blue and white and bought a gold coin donation to donate to one of the three main appeals raising funds for Israel. Additional activities included making Tzedakah boxes, writing letters to soldiers, making a Mitzvah pledge and a weekly Israel feature at the assemblies. We also started a new tradition of celebrating Rosh Chodesh with a special treat and dancing that will continue each month. Students also bought in $5 to be divided into small coins to be able to do the Mitzvah of charity each day as a new routine before Tefillah.

Arin Ginsberg in Year 11 Business Studies was placed 2nd out of 181 students in NSW in the Business Educators Australasia "Plan Your Own Enterprise Competition" on Monday 17th October. His business plan, named "Crop Solutions", was an innovative agricultural service using drones to revolutionise crop management for farmers. In the face of climate change and food insecurity in the world, farmers would greatly benefit from the data collected by the drones which would be analysed by AI to detect agricultural problems and devise methods to increase the productivity of farms. The judges recognised an innovative solution provided by Arin's plan to bridge the gap between agriculture and technology. Masada College congratulates Arin on this excellent achievement.

Students were invited to submit entries for the Masada Creativity Competition. The theme in 2023 of ‘masks’ attracted a variety of interpretations with students having the option to compose an entry in of the following forms: creative writing, short film, poetry or a podcast.

Congratulations to our winners!

1^st – Andy Tang (short film)

Runner up – Michal Goldberg (poem)

Highly Commended – Rohan Baldua (creative writing) and Eric Le (podcast)

Karen McEwen
Head of Learning Area - English

During last Friday's assembly, Dr Yona Gilead, Head of Modern Hebrew at Sydney University, together with Liri Cohen from JNF presented four Masada students with certificates and prizes for their excellent entries in the JNF / Sydney University Writing Competition. Among the topics the students addressed were their ideal world, Israel's achievements, and a very special person in their lives. Mazal Tov to Tomer Ilsar and Shakked Gazi from Year 8, and to Yam Tchelet and Lia Gazi from Year 9.

ACS Foundation – Women of STEM scholarship – Open 15 December
The Women of STEM Scholarship is for young women aged 18-20 who are entering their first year of a STEM degree at university. It is a national program and provides women with financial grants of $5,000 per year for the life of their degree (to a maximum of 5 years). This year we have awarded scholarships to three (3) exceptional female students. For more information visit here.

Engineers Australia - Cochlear Autumn School of Engineering - 15-19 April 2024
Open to Year 11/12 students in 2024. This is a 5 day Engineering program, students visit 5 different universities and see 5 different engineering projects/organisations. A great opportunity to build networks and learn more about the different engineering disciplines. The program is in the first week of the April school holidays in 2024. There is a cost involved in this program. Register your interest via this link

Career Options in Allied Health
Understand a career in Allied Health. Watch the NSW Health YouTube video at: https://vimeo.com/803268531/67a7f3c07e.

Cadetships, Apprenticeships, Traineeships

AFL Sports Ready Education and Employment – Traineeships
AFL SportsReady is a registered training organization and is currently seeking expressions of interest from applicants looking to secure a traineeship in the greater Sydney region, commencing in 2024. Traineeships are an opportunity that allows trainees to earn while you learn, gaining real-world experience and invaluable skills along the way. For more information visit AFL Sports Ready.

Apprenticeship in The Building and Construction Industry
Master Builders Association of NSW is taking applications for apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities in the Northern Beaches and Northern Sydney area. Master Builders have opportunities within multiple trades for all ages and entry levels. Suitable for those who have the commitment and drive to commence and complete an apprenticeship in the building and construction industry. For more information, please email careers@mbansw.asn.au.

Expressions Of Interest for 2024 Apprenticeships
Autosports Group are now taking applications for apprentice mechanics to start late 2023, early 2024. Locations all over Sydney working with some of the best brands in the world. Email: Trish Tyler at ttyler@autosportsgroup.com.au to register interest

NECA Electrical Apprenticeships Apply Now
Currently we are recruiting Electrical Apprentices for the New Year.
We welcome all HSC Students after their exams. Submit your expression of interest here

Jobs

Cotton Australia
Students wanting to start a career in agriculture or have a unique experience (while being paid) before starting tertiary education can try cotton. Cotton Jobs Australia has been launched to connect prospective employees with cotton growers looking to attract Year 12 leavers to help maintain and pick the 2023/24 crop visit https://cottonaustralia.com.au/jobs

Update from Tertiary Institutions

University Admissions Centre (UAC) Digital Information Sessions - Let's Chat - Preferences and offers 1 November
Tune in for an overview of preferences and offers, including:
- an explanation of course preferences, adjustment factors, and selection ranks
- upcoming key dates
- when to expect an offer
- what to do if you receive an offer
- things to remember to best manage your application.
Visit the following site for more information: https://www.uac.edu.au/schools/uac-digital

Macquarie University Year 12 webinar series
On topics such as Early Entry, Study Without Stress, Guide to Uni and more – For more information and to register click here

UNSW - TAFE Pathways Online Information Session – 15 November @ 5pm
Want to know how much credit you can receive for your TAFE studies in a relevent degree at UNSW? UNSW are holding an online information session where you can learn about your pathway options from TAFE NSW to UNSW. As part of their TAFE Pathways Program, you could receive credit for your Diploma or Advanced Diploma and finish your degree in a shorter amount of time. Register here

University of Sydney Events for prospective students
Registration links can be found on the Undergraduate Events page. These webinars are best suited for students from Years 10-12, and include tips on your school subjects, preparing for university and how to choose a course. The series also includes faculty-specific speakers. Upcoming webinars:

• Exercise and Sports Science – 8 November Register here
• Software engineering – 15 November Register here
• Diagnostic Radiography – 15 November Register here
• Mechanical and Megatronic Engineering – 22 November – Register here
• Conservatorium Open Academy

These programs are designed to enable your students to dive deep into the rewarding world of music. We have programs for a range of ages and backgrounds. Programs include the Rising Stars: Jazz, Chinese Music Ensemble as well as online classes. For more information visit here.

The Hotel School Sydney Information Evening – 8 November
Are you passionate about a career in hospitality, tourism or events? Join this information evening to explore how you can start an exciting global career within the hospitality, hotel and tourism. The session will include: * Meet faculty team members and the Head of Campus * Discuss career opportunities with the Work Integrated Learning team * Find out about courses and the application process * Chat with current students. Register here

SAE Creative Media Institute - The Best Australian Short Film Competition
Open to anyone age 12 and above. You don’t need to be a pro to be a part of The Best Australian Short Film Competition. It’s open to everyone - from first time filmmakers to seasoned professionals. Grab a camera, a phone, a GoPro, and get filming. Enter a short film or animation that is 10 minutes long or less for the chance to win. The scholarship will be awarded to the winner of the ‘SAE Emerging Talent’ category. Entries close January 5th and the prize will be awarded on the 22nd of January. For more information click here