As we enter the sacred season of Lent, the Church invites us to rediscover the meaning of fasting. We often think of fasting in terms of food or comforts, and rightly so. Yet Pope Leo XIV proposes a form of abstinence especially needed in our time: fasting from harmful words and learning to measure our speech. He reminds us: “Let us strive to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect in our families, among our friends, at work, on social media, in political debates, in the media and in Christian communities. In this way, words of hatred will give way to words of hope and peace.”

This Lenten fast begins at home. Parents can model it by avoiding harsh criticism and speaking with patience, especially in moments of stress. A simple pause before correcting a child, choosing encouragement over sarcasm, or resolving disagreements calmly can transform family life.

In the workplace, this fast may mean refusing to participate in gossip, choosing constructive feedback over complaint, and addressing colleagues with consistent respect. Measured words build a culture of trust and dignity.

For students, fasting from words can take very concrete forms: not posting hurtful comments online, resisting the urge to mock or exclude, and standing up gently for someone who is being ridiculed. Choosing not to spread rumours is a powerful act of charity.

Such fasting is demanding. It asks for self-control, humility and courage. Yet it opens space for grace. When we restrain words that wound and choose words that heal, we become instruments of hope and peace.

May this Lent be a time when our whole school community learns that true sacrifice is not only about what we give up, but about the love we allow to shape the way we speak.

Fr Paul Muller
Chaplain

Ash Wednesday

We discussed the significance of Ash Wednesday, why we receive ashes, and how they are prepared from the blessed palms of last year’s Palm Sunday. On Wednesday afternoon, Fr. John and Fr. Paul, visited Infants to distribute the ashes. It was a special moment for our students as we begin the season of Lent, reflecting on how we can prepare our hearts and walk more closely with Jesus as He journeys toward His sacrifice and the gift of eternal life.

Friendship Pods

To help our new Kindergarten students navigate their first term and develop friendships through play, we have introduced structured Friendship Pods. These small groups participate in intentional play experiences designed to encourage interaction, cooperation, and social confidence.

Before lunch, teachers facilitate short team-building activities where students practise communication and collaborative skills. Students then remain in their pods during eating time, providing familiarity and security before moving into free play. Many children naturally continue playing with the friends they have connected with in their pods.

To further support our Kindergarten students, our Year 9 students have generously volunteered their time in the playground, modelling games, inviting others to join in, and gently supporting any children who may feel unsure or alone. This beautiful partnership fosters a strong sense of belonging and community across our school.

Prep

Our Prep students are settling beautifully into their new home at Jacaranda Cottage. It is quickly becoming a true extension of home, a warm and nurturing environment where they are learning, exploring, and playing happily together. While there may be a few early-morning tears as little ones adjust to new routines, these soon give way to smiles, friendships, and joyful engagement in their day.

Lenten Appeal – Tapitas

As we journey towards Easter, we are reminded of the importance of almsgiving and caring for others. We are once again supporting the Tapitas Appeal, which helps provide safe drinking water to communities around the world who do not have access to this basic necessity.

We invite each child to contribute $5 to support this important cause. Students are also welcome to take part in a colouring-in competition, encouraging them to reflect on the importance of sharing our gifts with others.

Recently, our 2025 House Captains returned to meet with the newly appointed 2026 House Captains for Junior School, creating a valuable opportunity for connection and learning. The incoming leaders were able to ask questions, hear first-hand about the responsibilities of the role, and receive practical tips, guidance and encouragement as they prepare for the year ahead. We extend our sincere thanks to the 2025 House Captains for their generosity, enthusiasm and willingness to give their time to support our next group of student leaders.

Miss Michaela Rajakariar
Year 6 Navy Class Teacher

It has been a joy to watch our Year 2 students settle into the new school year with such enthusiasm. The girls have taken it all in their stride, showing growing independence and a wonderful eagerness to learn. We are so proud of the way they have embraced their learning, approaching each day with an eagerness that is wonderful to see.

Last week, we took a break from our usual routine to celebrate Shrove Tuesday, an important day in our liturgical calendar. The girls learned about the meaning behind the day and how it prepares us for the season of Lent. To celebrate, they shared mini pancakes together, which was a lovely way to mark the occasion. It was a special time to pause, enjoy each other’s company and give thanks for God’s blessings as they begin their Lenten journey.

In the classroom, the girls have been hard at work. The students have been showing off their impressive art skills by creating self-portraits. The girls explored the technical side of portraiture, learning about proportion, identifying where features sit on the face and observation, looking closely at their own unique features to capture their individuality. Their artworks are hanging proudly in our classrooms, they truly capture the vibrant personalities of our Year 2 students.

We are so proud of the wonderful start the girls have made and look forward to all the learning and growth still to come this year.

Mrs Daniella Abdow
Year 2 Navy Class Teacher

Our Year 4 Mother & Daughter Camp at Stanwell Tops was equal parts adventure, laughter and faith filled. From the moment we arrived, it was clear this weekend would stretch us - spiritually and physically!

Together, we tackled challenges side by side and, at times, competitively (because a little healthy mother–daughter rivalry never hurt anyone!). We built a kite and watched it soar high into the sky - a beautiful reminder of our faith rising upward, connecting us and drawing us closer to God. Watching my daughter run like a free spirit and seeing the kite lift higher and higher felt symbolic of our relationships, when grounded in faith, can truly take flight.

The giant bungy swing was a lesson all on its own. As mums, it reminded us that sometimes we need to loosen our grip and allow our daughters to face fears and challenges on their own two feet. Our role isn’t to hold them back - it’s to walk beside them, much like the message shared with us from Footprints in the Sand - steady, prayerful, and always present. And just as we cheer them on daily, they were right there cheering us on too.

I’ll admit, I would never have done the bungy swing if it weren’t for my incredibly kind and courageous daughter, Stella, encouraging me to conquer my fear of heights. With the sweetest confidence she said, “Mum, you always tell me I can do hard things - now it’s your turn. I’ll be right here.” And she was, along with her friends and their mothers cheering each other on and working together as a team to pull that rope to help each other rise. That moment - heart racing, palms sweating & hearing the encouraging cheers of the voices below, helped remind me of the importance of putting my faith in God's hands and literally 'just let go' - this became one of the most special memories from the camp for both Stella and I. These challenging experiences gave me a rich insight into the inner strength my little girl has inside her (and her new found love for combat!)

The mums were also blessed with an inspiring talk from Genevieve McCaughan, a former Tangara mum, with one message standing out above all: the importance of simply being present for our daughters. Not perfect. Not all-knowing. Just present.

We came home tired but grateful - with stronger faith, braver hearts, rich connections shared with other Tangara mothers and daughters and an even stronger mother–daughter bond. And perhaps a newfound appreciation for solid ground!

On behalf of the Year 4 Mothers, I would like to send my thanks to the school for providing this opportunity for us mothers to 'take time away' from our day to day roles for our families and blessing us with this one on one time with our little precious girls, which we never get a chance to do. Thank you to our class parents Sarah and Natasha for your organisation. We know it was a huge task and we are so grateful to you for taking it on. Thank you also to Father John who came and did a lovely mass for us all and to Genevieve McCaughan who made us reflect on how we are as mothers and empowering us with what's important for our girls now in their pre-teen era.

From the words of Stella, "It was the best camp ever and I loved having this time with my mum."

Mrs Sharon Barbero
Mentor, Religion Teacher, Parent Coordinator

It has been a creative & colourful start to 2026.

Year 3 learnt about Wassily Kandinsky and his unique talent of listening to music and responding intuitively in paint. Our girls tried this technique with some amazing results, firstly in watercolour and then with collage.

Year 5 are learning about printing and all the different affects and textures they can achieve with geli printing, relief monoprinting and eco-dying.

Year 6 have been studying the history of Indigenous Aboriginal art and responding with their own story using signs and symbols. So creative!

* Stay tuned, next Rust & Navy I will showcase the magnificent mixed media landscapes year 4 are part way through creating!!

Mrs Olivia Denahy
Primary Art Teacher

On Wednesday 18 February, the HZSA Primary Basketball trials took place at William Clarke College. We were thrilled to see so many Tangara students take part, and incredibly proud that seven of our players earned selection in the final team of ten - an impressive result!

Angelique Chan
Eva Eckersley
Maria Fayad
Nicole Gao
Talitha Gregory
Isabella Nisbet
Olivia Sreeskantapathy

The team will play at the CIS Primary Basketball trials on Friday 6 March at Hills Basketball Stadium. We wish them the best of luck!

Congratulations to Arshia Arora (Year 6), who represented Tangara at the CIS Primary Tennis Trials on Monday 23 February, held at The King's School. Arshia finished third in her pool and demonstrated great determination and sportsmanship throughout the day. She is to be commended for her outstanding effort and the way she represented the school.

A huge congratulations to Olivia Siau (Year 12) who competed at the NSW All Schools Aquathlon Championship on Wednesday 25 February.

Olivia delivered an outstanding performance, placing 1st among CIS competitors and an impressive 4th overall in NSW - a truly remarkable achievement!

We wish Olivia every success as she prepares to compete at the School Sport Nationals in March. Tangara is proudly behind her all the way!

On Monday 23 February, Tangara marked an exciting milestone by entering its first netball team in the Hills Zone Semester 1 Sport competition. Our Year 9 students delivered a fantastic performance in their debut match, securing a dominant 29-4 victory over Masada College.

Coach Mrs Benson, a self-confessed netball enthusiast, is looking forward to the season ahead!

On Tuesday, 24th February, our Junior Futsal team hit the court for their first game of the season. Despite dominating possession in the first half, the girls found themselves trailing 1-0 to Norwest Christian College. After regrouping with our experienced Futsal Coach, Ashton, they turned the match around, securing an impressive 2-1 victory.

We can’t wait to see their skills continue to grow throughout the season!

We can still accommodate 1-2 players in this team. Please contact Mrs Benson for more information.

On Tuesday 24 March, HZSA conducted trials for the Football, Netball, and Touch Football teams. Congratulations to all students who participated, and special recognition to those who were selected:

U15 Football
Esther Bou-Samra

U15 Netball
Chloe Abboud

U18 Netball
Jaime Saliba
Ella-Louise Saliba (shadow)

We wish these students the very best as they prepare for the AICES selections.

Students under 16 years of age are eligible for half fares as a “child.” Once they turn 16, they are required to obtain a concession card to continue accessing concession fares. The NSW Senior Secondary Student Concession Card allows eligible students to receive concession fares at all times. To qualify, students must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or recipients of a DET approved international scholarship or exchange placement, and must currently reside in NSW.

If your child is 16 years or older and would like to apply for a Senior Secondary Student Concession Card, they can contact Mrs Mimi Tam at mimi.tam@tangara.nsw.edu.au.

When the card is ready for collection, Mrs Tam will notify students via their school email and advise them to collect it from her office.