Welcome to the Tangara Community. It is a privilege to be commencing this journey with you.
Our hope is that you and your children enjoy the Tangara family experience, where each student is personally known and supported to achieve their personal best in an atmosphere of love and respect, becoming the person God has called them to be. We hope you and your child have a wonderful year of growth, learning and discovery at Tangara.
In This Issue
About
Welcome
Welcome
Our Mission
Our Mission
Mission
Tangara works in partnership with parents to form each child’s character, educating for personal and academic excellence. We challenge our students to live a life of faith and lead change for a more just and humane society.
Vision
Our vision is a happy and vibrant School, highly regarded as a centre of excellence, where every child is encouraged to be the very best person they can be. Parents, staff and students work as a united team for the pursuit of character and academic success, with a commitment to service and a life of faith.
Values
At Tangara, we base our school’s ethos on the Christian virtues. These principles shape our teaching and our interactions with staff, parents, and students. We believe that students learn best from positive role models, not just words.
We strive to create genuine relationships, where actions align with values and an environment that encourages doing one’s best while recognising that mistakes are part of learning and growth.
- Faith - lived in daily life
- Hope - hearts open to happiness
- Charity - self-giving, love of God and kindness towards others
- Justice - social responsibility and fairness
- Wisdom - discernment in one's choices
- Fortitude - resilience and perseverance in the pursuit of what is good
- Temperance - balance and self-mastery
Tangara Shield
Tangara Shield
- The Shield, an oval shape, displays a towering gum against a midnight sky.
- The eucalypt, which invariably grows straight and stands tall, symbolises for us the way in which our children must grow – AD SUMMAM VIRTUTEM – “Towards the fullness of virtue”.
- The tree has many leaves “so that all birds can come and settle in its branches”. No one is to be excluded from the honest pursuit of the true and the good.
- Although a robust specimen, the tree is alone, the first to grow in the rich, red earth where there is still much to be done. Society awaits the sowing of the good seed of real knowledge and wisdom to fill the arid waste of ignorance. The sincere practise of virtue aided by faith promises a harvest of many good people capable of changing things for the better.
- The land is Australia, and the time is now, the eve of a new era. The Southern Cross which alone illuminates the sparse landscape is amid the darkness, like that other Cross, a sure and saving guide.
Community
Executive Team
Executive Team
Mrs Rita Sakr - Principal
Mrs Fleur Wilson - Deputy Principal
Mrs Sharon McAuliffe - Head of Infants
Mrs Mia Dineen - Head of Junior School
Mrs Fleur Wilson - Head of Secondary
Mrs Jennifer Bannon - Head of Studies
Key Staff
Key Staff
Fr Paul Muller - Chaplain
Fr John Flader - Chaplain
Miss Victoria Abboud - Head of Formation
Mrs Mirjana Milicevic - Secondary Welfare Coordinator (Years 7-9)
Mrs Fleur Wilson - Secondary Welfare Coordinator (Years 10-12)
Mrs Anna Jean Byrne - Teaching and Learning Coordinator (Junior School)
Mrs Danielle Lazaris - Teaching and Learning Coordinator (Secondary)
Mrs Alison Benson - Sport and Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator
Mrs Angela Hacker - Diverse Learning Coordinator (Junior School)
Mrs Anne Marie Duncan - Diverse Learning Coordinator (Secondary)
Contact
Reach out or Visit us
Reach out or Visit us
ADMINISTRATION
Office Hours: 8.00am to 4.00pm
Phone: 9680 4844
Email:
admin@tangara.nsw.edu.au
IT HELPDESK
Office Hours: 8.00am to 4.00pm
IT Support:
helpdesk@pared.edu.au
CHAPLAIN
Monday to Friday: 8.00am to 4.00pm
Email:
fr.paul.muller@tangara.nsw.edu.au
LIBRARY
Monday to Friday: 8.00am to 4.00pm
(After school hours are for Secondary students only)
CO-CURRICULAR SPORT
Telephone: 9680 4844
Email:
sports@tangara.nsw.edu.au
CO-CURRICULAR MUSIC & MUSIC ACADEMY
Telephone: 9680 4844
Email:
musicacademy@tangara.nsw.edu.au
UNIFORM SHOP
Opening Hours:
Monday: 8.00am-12.00pm
Wednesday: 8.00am-4.00pm
Phone: 9761 5454
Online orders:
tangara@midford.com.au
Appointments:
midford.as.me/TangaraSchoolForGirls
Eftpos, Visa, Mastercard, cheque or cash are accepted.
Holiday Opening Hours
Holiday opening hours will be published via:
Tangara’s Newsletter, the Rust and Navy
Tangara Website under Parents Portal
School Communication
School Communication
Tangara provides our community with a wide range of communication platforms to contact, engage, find and seek information about our school.
MENTOR MEETING
Meetings are arranged between parents and Mentors once a term, except in the term where these are replaced by parent-teacher meetings. However, Mentors are also always available by appointment should you wish to meet with them.
PARENT-TEACHER MEETINGS
Parent-teacher meetings will take place once a year for each year group. A letter outlining the dates and the booking link will be emailed to parents early in Term 1. An online booking system is provided for your convenience.
SEMESTER REPORTS
Academic reports are issued at the end of Semester 1 and Semester 2.
KEY PARENT FUNCTIONS (KPF)
In the second half of the KPF in Term 1, class teachers provide information regarding procedures, key dates, and information specific to your child’s learning for the year.
STUDENT PORTFOLIOS
Class teachers compile a collection of work samples and assessments throughout the year for students in K-6 in a portfolio. Student portfolios are sent home with your child at the end of the academic year.
ENGAGE - PARENT PORTAL
Access online forms, policies, handbooks, school reports, submit absentees and more. See below for more details.
NEWSLETTER - RUST AND NAVY
A fortnightly Newsletter is issued via email on Fridays during the term to all parents and members of our school community and is an important source of information.
WEBSITE
The Tangara website provides a range of up-to-date information. The Parent Portal is accessible via the School website and contains important information that is specific to each family.
EMAIL
The School uses email to keep parents informed and notified. Please ensure that your email addresses are current to enable you to receive important information.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Join the Tangara conversation by following our pages on
Facebook
,
Instagram
,
LinkedIn
and
YouTube
to stay up-to-date with key events and reminders from the School community.
STUDENT DIARY
Each student is provided with a school diary at the commencement of the academic year. The student diaries are used to record school-related information, including homework, assessment tasks, school events and other relevant information. From Prep to Year 6, parents may use the school diary as a way of communicating with their child’s class teacher. Your child’s teacher will check your child’s diary daily and acknowledge receipt of any messages and respond accordingly.
SCHOOL CALENDAR
Parents should access Tangara’s online calendar regularly throughout the year to check event dates and information. The calendar can be accessed via Engage on the Parent Portal or by
clicking here
.
Chapel
Mass & Reconciliation Times
Mass & Reconciliation Times
Daily Mass: Held at 12:15 pm.
Location: Chapel is located at the entrance of the school.
Open Hours: Daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Confession Times:
8:00 am - 8:30 am
12:40 pm - 1:30 pm
3:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Available at other times by appointment.
Spiritual Guidance:
Chaplains: Priests of the prelature of Opus Dei. Available for spiritual direction and support.
Contact: Feel free to reach out to our Chaplains for any spiritual needs or questions.
Fr Paul Muller: fr.paul.muller@tangara.nsw.edu.au
Fr John Flader: fr.john.flader@tangara.nsw.edu.au
Student Attendance
Infants (Kindergarten - Year 1): Regular visits to the Chapel with their class teacher; attend Mass once a term.
Primary (Year 2 - Year 6): Attend Mass once a week on a scheduled day with their class.
Secondary (Year 7 - Year 12): May attend Mass daily.
Special Devotions
Daily Rosary: Every morning at 8:00 am during May and October.
First Friday Vigil: Held on the first Friday of every month.
May: Devotion to Our Lady with daily Rosary and a pilgrimage.
June: Eucharistic Procession on or near the Feast of Corpus Christi. All students, staff, and families are invited to participate.
Daily Routines
Terms Dates & School Hours
Terms Dates & School Hours
| 2026 Term Dates | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | Start Date | End Date | Weeks |
| 1 | Monday, 2 February | Thursday, 2 April | 9 |
| 2 | Wednesday, 22 April | Friday, 26 June | 10 |
| 3 | Wednesday, 22 July | Friday, 26 September | 10 |
| 4 | Tuesday, 13 October | Wednesday, 9 December | 9 |
| 2026 Preparatory Students | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class | Start | Days | Times |
| Rust (3 days) | Monday, 2 February | Mon, Tues & Wed | 8:30am - 2:50pm |
| Navy (2 days) | Thursday, 5 February | Thurs & Fri | 8:30am - 2:50pm |
| 2026 Kindergarten Students | |
|---|---|
| Start Date | Start Time |
| Friday, 6 February | 8:30am - 2:50pm |
| 2026 Kindergarten Assessment | | |
|---|---|---|
| Dates | Times | Notes |
| Monday, 2 Feb - Thursday, 5 Feb | Time and day will be notified. | Uniform not required this day. |
| 2026 Year 1 Students | |
|---|---|
| Start | Monday, 2 February |
Public Examination Dates
NAPLAN - YEARS 3, 5, 7 AND 9
National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN)
Wednesday 11 - Monday 23 March 2026 (NAPLAN Assessment Window)
HSC - YEAR 12
Higher School Certificate (HSC)
Tuesday 13 October to Thursday 5 November 2026
Results release date: Wednesday 16 December 2026
NSW Public Holidays 2026
Good Friday - Friday 3 April 2026
Easter Monday - Monday 6 April 2026
ANZAC Day - Saturday 25 April 2026
ANZAC Day Holiday - Monday 27 April 2026
King’s Birthday - Monday 8 June 2026
Labour Day - Monday 5 October 2026
| School Timetable | |
|---|---|
| School Starts | 8:30am |
| Recess | 10:15am - 10:35am |
| Lunch (Infants and Primary) | 12:30pm - 1:30pm |
| Lunch (Secondary) | 12:40pm - 1:30pm |
| School Finishes (Prep to Year 1) | 2:50pm |
| School Finishes (Year 2 to Year 6) | 3:10pm |
| School Finishes (Year 7 to Year 12) | 3:15pm |
| School Assemblies | |
|---|---|
| Infants | Friday (Week B) |
| Primary | Friday (Week A) |
| Secondary | Tuesday 11:25am (Week A) |
Drop-Off & Pick-Up
Drop-Off & Pick-Up
Access to School Grounds
Vehicles are not allowed on school grounds before the official pick-up time.
Arriving early and queuing on the road is not permitted.
No Parking on Campus
No parking is allowed on school grounds during drop-off and pick-up times or during school events (e.g., assemblies, parades, masses).
Families with a disability permit are exempt.
Street Parking
Park in surrounding streets if you need to walk your child to school or attend an event.
Use the Franklin Road area for street parking.
Stay in Your Vehicle
Do not leave your car during drop-off or pick-up.
Students must have their bags ready inside the car.
Bags should not be placed in the trunk, except for large musical instruments.
Public Transport Option
If your child is old enough, consider using the Cherrybrook Metro station for drop-off and pick-up.
Morning Drop-Off
Supervision Starts at 8:00 am
Do not drop off children before 8:00 am.
If early, parents must supervise their children until staff arrive.
Drop-Off Locations
- Infants Carpark: For families with Infants (K-1) only.
- MPH Carpark: For families with Primary children only.
- Secondary School Carpark: For families with children in Infants, Primary, and/or Secondary.
See: School Map
Display Name Tag
When waiting in the carline, use the laminated name tag provided on your dashboard for easy identification.
Staggered Pick-Up Times
- Infants (Prep-1): 2:50 pm pick-up at Infants Carline. Arrive no earlier than 2:40 pm.
- Primary: 3:10 pm pick-up at Primary Carline. Arrive no earlier than 3:00 pm. Carline ends at 3:40 pm.
- Secondary: 3:15 pm pick-up at Diamantina. Arrive no earlier than 3:00 pm. Carline ends at 3:45 pm
See: School Map
We are happy to accommodate Redfield students joining their sisters at Tangara to simplify pick-up. If your son travels from Redfield to Tangara on the inter-school bus and you want him picked up with his siblings, please follow these steps:
Pick-Up at Tangara:
Redfield students may join their siblings at Tangara for pick-up.
Meet at the Primary or Secondary carline and proceed together to the Secondary carline.
Late Pick-Up
Children not picked up by the end of carline (3:40 pm for Primary, 3:45 pm for Secondary) will be taken to the front office.
Collect your child from the front office by 4:00 pm.
Sign a register for after-hours collection.
Redfield Students Without Tangara Siblings
Arrange pick-up from Cherrybrook Metro if needed.
It is a school requirement that all students enrolled in the Junior School at Tangara be registered with Extend.
Out Of School Hours Care (OSHC) is conducted by Extend. Care is available in the afternoons from 3.15 pm to 6.00 pm. Registration is essential.
Details relating to OSHC can be found on the website, www.extend.com.au or call: 1300 366 437.
Lunch Food & Medical Care
Lunch Food & Medical Care
Lunch Food Guideline
Good nutrition and hydration are essential for learning and health.
Ensure your child eats a healthy breakfast every day.
Include an adequate and healthy lunch to support an active school day.
Pack plenty of drinks, especially on sports days.
Food Restrictions
No cutlery or boiling water will be provided to students at morning tea or lunch.
Do not include nuts, chips, sweet biscuits, or chocolate in your child’s morning tea or lunch.
For birthday celebrations, we encourage parents to bring healthy, individual portions to share with the class.
Crunch & Sip
There is no Crunch & Sip in Kindergarten and Year 1.
Money Guidelines
Students should not bring more money than needed for travel and school fundraising events.
Medical Care Guideline
Tangara staff prioritize student health and wellbeing. We partner with parents to ensure the best care for students.
In Case of Sickness
- If your child feels unwell during the school day, we will monitor them closely.
- We will contact you if necessary, so keep contact details updated.
- We will inform teachers if your child is upset or unwell to help us provide personalised care.
Medication
- Provide written instructions in the Student Diary for any medication needed during the day and also email instructions to admin@tangara.nsw.edu.au.
- Include type, dosage, and administration times.
- Use a container with daily dose compartments.
- Medication should be handed to Administration Reception by a parent.
- All administered medication is recorded in the student’s diary and through Engage. Students need to bring their diary to Reception.
- Inform the school if your child requires regular medication for ongoing health issues.
Allergies, Anaphylaxis, and Asthma
- Submit a doctor-signed medical plan for any of these conditions.
Parent Responsibilities
- Provide accurate and up-to-date medical information at the start of the year.
- Update address, phone numbers, and emergency contacts via the Engage Parent Portal.
School Canteen
School Canteen
The Tangara School Canteen officially commenced operations in Term 3 2025, and we are delighted to welcome Evette’s Lunchbox as our canteen provider.
Evette’s Lunchbox is a family-operated business with over 20 years of experience in the food and catering industry. Their team is excited to become part of our school community and is committed to providing high-quality, nutritious meals to students and staff. Their menu features a wide range of wholesome foods, made fresh daily on site, using premium ingredients and trusted brand names, with meals that are baked - not deep fried - for a healthier option. All offerings are aligned with the Healthy School Canteens Strategy.
We believe this new canteen service is a meaningful step forward in supporting our growing school community, especially for busy families seeking reliable, healthy food options for their children.
Canteen Service - Key Details
Operating Days - Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
Year Groups - Kindergarten to Year 12 (Prep not included)
Service Times
Breakfast (8.00am–8.20am): Secondary students only
Recess: Secondary students only
Lunch: K–12
Lunch Delivery
Infants and Primary students will have pre-ordered lunch delivered to their classrooms at 12.30pm.
Secondary students will collect their lunch from the canteen between 12.40pm and 1.25pm.
Only students in Years 11 and 12 who have lunch time classes may collect their lunch prior to 12.40pm.
Students from Years 2-12 may make purchases during lunch time service as well.
There will be no service outside of these hours, so we ask for your support in reminding students to order and collect during the designated times.
How to Order
We encourage all families to use the Flexischools App for online ordering. A guide for downloading and using Flexischools is here. For support contact 1300 361 769.
Orders must be placed before 9.00 am each day.
In addition to online ordering, Evette’s Lunchbox will accept cash and EFTPOS payments at the canteen (students must present a physical card, no phone payments permitted)
Keep an eye out for daily specials, which will be published on the Flexischools platform and on the canteen noticeboard.
Menu
You’ll find a wide range of balanced options available each day as Evette’s team is passionate about promoting healthy eating and helping students make informed food choices.
The menu with prices can be found here for your reference.
Requesting an Absence
Requesting an Absence
Quick Links
Punctuality
- Students must attend the morning assembly by 8:30 am.
- Latecomers must report to the Main Administration Building (Primary and Secondary) or Infant's office (Infants).
Leaving School During Hours
- Notify the school of early departures due to appointments by sending a note in the child’s diary and via Engage Parent Portal.
- Students must be signed out at the front office and cannot leave via public transport during school hours.
- Parents or guardians must collect students for appointments or if they are unwell.
Appointments
- Schedule appointments outside school hours whenever possible.
Reasons for Absence
Sickness
- Do not send children to school if they are ill (contagious disease, high temperature, vomiting).
Exemption Leave
- Required for all students (except Prep) during term time for illness, bereavement, or elite sport.
- Holiday leave should be limited to school holiday periods. Avoid holiday leave during term time.
- Minimize medical appointments during school hours.
- For applications for extended leave, submit at least 14 days in advance.
- Submit early departure notes for medical appointments by 8:30 am on the day.
Sport and PDHPE Lessons
- Submit notes for excusal directly to the PDHPE teacher or coach before the lesson.
Guidelines for Requesting an Absence
- All absences must be explained in writing within seven days , including weekends and school holidays.
- Unexplained absences after seven days will be marked on the student’s school report .
- Use the Engage Parent Portal to fill out the Absentee Note by 8:30 am each day for any absences.
Fill in an Application Form
- Requests may be made via the Engage Parent Portal. For new families, log-in details will be sent via email 2 weeks prior to the start of school.
- Submit an Absentee Form
- Submit an Extended Leave Form (for holidays, weddings, etc.)
- Submit an Exemption From School Form (for external activities, medical appointments, funerals etc.)
- For tutorials on how to use the Engage Parent Portal please visit: Parent Portal Resource Site .
Submitting on time
An automated SMS will be sent to parents for any absences or late arrivals by 10:30 am.
Family Details
Quick Links
Quick Links
Login: Engage Parent Portal
Click on the links below to complete the relevant forms in Engage:
- To update your contact details
- Submit an Absentee Form
- Submit an Extended Leave Form (for holidays, travel etc.)
- Submit an Exemption From School Form (for exceptional circumstances)
Tutorials and support
For guidance on completing procedures or forms in the Engage Parent Portal, please refer to the Parent Portal Resource Site .
The resource site includes additional information and video tutorials.
For any issues with logins/passwords , please contact the Admin staff at Tangara.
Engage Parent Portal
Engage Parent Portal
Overview
New parents will receive a username and password for the Engage Parent Portal .
This portal provides access to vital information such as:
- parent and student contact details
- medical records
- attendance
- academic results and feedback
Student Details
Student Details
Review and update
Parents must review and update all details for each child before the start of each year .
Accurate information is crucial, especially in emergencies, as the school relies on these details to contact parents quickly.
Change of Contact Details
- Any change of address, telephone number or emergency contact numbers for your family should be updated in the Engage Parent Portal Change of Details request
Vaccination
Vaccination
NSW School Vaccination Program Overview
Vaccines Offered
Year 7: Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (dTpa) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Year 10: Meningococcal ACWY.
Online Consent
Consent for school vaccinations will be given online through Service NSW, replacing paper forms.
Parents/carers will need their Service NSW log-in, Medicare card, and their child’s school name .
Benefits include easy updates, SMS notifications, and quicker vaccination record uploads to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).
Support for Parents/Carers:
Public Health Units (PHUs) will guide parents/carers on the online consent process.
For those without internet access, contact the PHU at NSLHD-PHUSchoolVaccinationProgram@health.nsw.gov.au or phone 02 9485 6971 .
School Staff
Advice will be provided on how these changes impact them.
Clinics will run as usual, with nurses using iPads instead of paper forms.
For more details, visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/schoolvaccination .
Parents
Parent Code of Conduct
Parent Code of Conduct
The School aims to work in partnership with parents to form each child's character, educating for personal and academic excellence. The School is committed to a strong culture of mutual trust and support among parents, teachers, tutors, all staff members, and students.
This Code has been developed so that parents and those with parental responsibilities are aware of and meet the School's expectations with regard to their interaction with the School, its teachers, tutors, and all staff members, other parents and students. Adherence to this Code is important to promote positive and productive relationships within the School community.
Key Parent Functions
Key Parent Functions
Overview
The purpose of Key Parents Functions is to provide ongoing support and guidance for parents in raising your children.
- Schedule: Held in Terms 1-3, with no sessions in Term 4.
- Format: Evening seminars or workshops led by experienced educators and experts.
Term 1 - Thursday, 12 February
- Focus: Information session where class teachers explain their program outline and expectations for the year.
Term 2 - Friday, 8 May
- Focus: Presentations to assist parents in the character, educational, or spiritual formation of their children.
Term 3 - Friday, 7 August
- Focus: Continued support for parents in the areas of character, education, and spirituality.
Term 4 - No KPF sessions held.
Topics Explored:
- Building Resilience
- Parent-Daughter Communication
- The Role and Importance of Fathers in Parenting
- Understanding Girls: Challenge and Change
- Adolescent Health Matters: Exercise, Nutrition, and Eating Disorders
- The Post-School Years: Balancing Parental Guidance and Personal Autonomy
- The Impact of the Media on the Sexualisation of Girls
|
Commitment
Attendance at KPFs and termly parent/mentor interviews is required for both parents . |
Class Parents
Class Parents
At Tangara, each class has a set of Class Parent Representatives who are nominated from each class with the aim to:
- Their role is to promote family spirit within the School by fostering real friendships amongst the families.
- They also foster unity and communication between the parents and the school .
- Class Parents coordinate support for families in need.
Welcome New Families
- Class Parents contact new families early in the school year;
- Help connect new families with others in their child’s year group; and
- Provide additional support as needed.
Communication
- Typically, Class Parent Representatives share information via email.
- Parents using the class email list must adhere to Tangara’s Parent Code of Conduct .
1 on 1 Mentoring Program
1 on 1 Mentoring Program
Program Overview
The 1-on-1 Mentoring system is a distinctive feature of Tangara and other Pared Foundation schools. This system is designed to provide personalised support and foster a strong partnership between school and home.
Individual Mentors - Each student has a dedicated staff member as their Mentor.
Fortnightly Meetings - Mentors meet with students once a fortnight. These sessions focus on:
- Academic progress
- Character development
- Moral and social growth
Informal Conversations - Mentor meetings are casual and designed to help students:
- Gain self-knowledge
- Build character
- Set academic and personal goals
Open Communication
- Mentors and teachers are available by appointment to discuss any concerns.
For New Families
- If your child is new to Tangara, the Mentor will meet with them during the first week of school.
- The Mentor will also contact you in Term 1 to introduce themselves and arrange a meeting.
Parent Collaboration
|
Character Education Program
Character Education Program
Program Overview
- Objective: Foster character development in students by cultivating virtues like responsibility, good judgement, resilience, and self-control.
- Approach: Virtues are developed through student engagement in academics, creativity, sports, social activities, and service.
Virtues Program
- Purpose: Teach students the meaning of virtues both theoretically and practically.
- Goal: Help students learn how to embody these virtues in their daily lives.
GIVE Program (Junior School)
GIVE stands for \"Growing in Virtue Every day.\"
- Focus: Each week, students concentrate on a specific virtue.
- Method: Discuss practical applications of the virtue and how to integrate it into all aspects of life.
REAL Program (Years 7-10)
REAL stands for \"Real Excellence and Attitude for Life.\"
- Focus: Explore the science of character and foster genuine character development.
-
Content:
- Teach students about authentic character versus superficial images promoted by society and media.
- Topics include internet ethics and safety, friendships, resilience, emotional intelligence, and leadership.
- Workshops address the hyper-sexualisation of girls and encourage self-respect.
Podcasts
Podcasts
Exploring all the aspects of a successful parent-teacher partnership and how to bring out the best in you, your students and your children. Our goal is to answer your questions and to inspire you about the future of education.
The place where we ignite discussions that help nurture your family’s Catholic faith adventure. Join us as we delve into meaningful conversations designed to help you as parents explore ways to grow a vibrant and enduring faith in your home.
Students
Student Code of Conduct
Student Code of Conduct
The Tangara Student Behaviour Code defines how we live within our community and interact with others. Staff support positive student behaviour through preventative and strengths-based strategies, creating classroom environments that encourage positive relationships and support learning. Acts of positive behaviour are regularly acknowledged and celebrated.
When students do not adhere to the Student Code of Conduct, appropriate actions are taken, including disciplinary consequences, educative responses, and restorative practices aimed at repairing relationships. Students are guided toward empathy, remorse, restorative action, and forgiveness.
Mobile Devices Policy
Mobile Devices Policy
At the start of each day, student mobile phones are collected during roll call and placed in a secure location. They are returned during afternoon roll call.
Contacting Parents
Students needing to contact parents during the day may use the school phone in the main administration office.
For Younger Students
Mobile phones are not required but can be used at the parent’s discretion.
For more details, refer to the Mobile Device Policy in the student diary.
Student Development Policy
Student Development Policy
This can be found in the Student Diary.
Homework
Homework
Junior School (Kindergarten to Year 6)
Students are expected to complete weekly homework to consolidate learning and explore individual interests.
Parental Involvement
- Listen to your child read each evening.
- Establish a regular time and quiet place for homework.
- Inform the school if your child is having difficulty or taking longer than expected to complete tasks.
- Provide a note if homework cannot be completed due to illness or family commitments.
Secondary School (Year 7 to Year 12)
Homework is essential for Secondary students to reinforce learning and prepare for lessons. It includes:
- Teacher-assigned tasks
- Preparation for upcoming classes
- Long-term assessments
- Daily lesson review
Expectations
- Students should work independently to manage their workload.
- Incomplete homework is handled according to the Student Development Policy (see student diary).
- Teachers will notify students of incomplete homework, and repeated issues will be reported to the student’s Mentor.
Holiday Homework
Students from Kindergarten to Year 10 are not expected to complete homework during holidays, except for reading.
Daily Homework Time Guidelines
Kindy+Year 1: 20 minutes
Year 2: 10 minutes reading + 20 minutes other
Year 3: 30-40 minutes
Year 4: 30-40 minutes
Year 5: 50 minutes
Year 6: 50 minutes
Year 7+8: 1.5 - 2 hours
Year 9+10: 2 - 2.5 hours
Year 11+12: 3-4 hours
Assessments
Assessments
Key Information for Parents
Throughout the year, teachers use a variety of assessment methods to evaluate students' understanding and skills.
Assessments help students:
- Understand their current learning level.
- Identify where they need to improve.
- Plan their next steps for growth.
Learning and Growth: Assessments are not just about grades—they're opportunities for learning and personal development.
Assessment Calendar:
- For Secondary Students: The assessment calendar is available on the student intranet.
- For Parents: You can access the assessment calendar via the Engage Parent Portal.
Reporting
Reporting
What You Need to Know
Report Frequency: Reports are provided twice a year, at the end of Semesters 1 and 2.
Report Format: Reports include a written summary of your child’s progress and the teaching and learning activities up to that point.
Parent-Teacher Communication
- Meetings: Parent-teacher meetings are scheduled at specific times during the year.
- Appointments: You can request an appointment with your child’s teacher or Mentor to discuss progress at any time.
- Concerns About Progress: If you have any concerns about your child’s progress, contact their Mentor. The Mentor is your first point of contact and can provide guidance and support.
- Accessing Reports: End-of-semester reports are accessible through the Engage Parent Portal.
Teams, Clubs & Interests
Houses
Houses
Our four sporting Houses take their names from places synonymous with great and noble deeds. All of our animal ‘mascots’ can be found in Christian literature.
 | Siena Birthplace and bastion of Catherine, the unrivalled peacemaker warrior saint. Symbol: the phoenix, an indestructible creature which “rises from the ashes” with renewed energy. Colour: the TERRACOTTA of Catherine’s fortress city. |
 | Atlantis The fabled lost, perfect civilisation of antiquity. Symbol: the dolphin, a gentle yet strong creature of the sea. Colour: AQUAMARINE BLUE, for the waters in which Atlantis is thought to lie. |
 | La Mancha From whence the man who would “run where the brave dare not go”. Symbol: the griffin, king of all creatures, is known for its courage and boldness. Colour: SILVER, for the formidable sword and shield of the “Man of La Mancha”. |
 | Tintagel Where it is believed King Arthur was born, and where he may have first formed the Knights of the Round Table and pursued the dream of “might for right”. Symbol: the unicorn, a Medieval horned horse known for its swiftness and strength. Colour: FOREST GREEN, for the giant sentinels in the woods surrounding the court of the mighty Arthur Pendragon. |
Sports
Sports
One of the aims of physical education at Tangara is to promote participation in sport for all students. Students in Year 3 to Year 10 are expected to participate in at least one semester of sport for a year for Tangara. Sport is important for our girls because it promotes physical and mental health. It is also an effective means of developing character through virtue:
charity is putting others before ourselves; persistence can be learnt through training;
humility must be part of victory;
moderation is to be in control of our passions and having self-mastery;
sacrifice is learnt through teamwork;
good-sportsmanship is treating others with dignity and respect.
- Students can deepen friendships with peers, parents and staff through participation in sport.
Please refer to the following websites for calendar updates, results and programs throughout the year:
Hills Zone: www.hzsa.com.au
AICES: http://www.aices.com.au
Extra-Curricular Sports
Extra-Curricular Sports
For more information on the sports offered, please see below link:
Commitments to the Team
Commitments to the Team
Players Commit to:
attend all games, training and meetings.
notify the coach in person, with a note or by ringing the school if you are unable to attend a training or game for some good reason.
wear the correct uniform to games.
wear suitable clothing for training.
be punctual for training and transport to the games.
listen to and respect the coaches and always thank them.
Parents Commit to:
transport their daughters to and from the game venue, and to make any necessary arrangements for them to be picked up after training.
understand, encourage and support their daughters in their commitment to the team.
Uniform
If students are selected to represent Tangara in a sport they must have the correct uniform for that sport including the Tangara representative shirt and full Tangara sports tracksuit. If students do not have the tracksuit they will not be allowed in the official team photo and may not be allowed to attend the event.
Association Opportunities
There are also a number of ‘extra’ activities on offer through each Association.
Secondary Hills Zone
There are ‘Competition Days’ held throughout the year in several popular sports, the triathlon, as well as representative opportunities in various sports. We are always striving to improve in the Tangara Sports Department. Please see the Tangara PDHPE Staff to find out about any new activities/sports that may be commencing at the School.
Music Program
Music Program
Tangara School for Girls acknowledges the benefits of music education on a child's cognitive processing skills, language development, socio-emotional skills, and overall wellbeing. Browse the Music Academy offerings below.
For more information Tangara Music Academy (musicacademy@tangara.nsw.edu.au) with any questions.
Uniform
Tangara Uniform Shop
Tangara Uniform Shop
The following subsections provide uniform information for Tangara Prep-Year 12 students. Skip to the Redfield Uniform Shop section for Kindergarten and Year 1 Boys Uniforms.
Tangara Uniform Shop
New Families commencing in 2026
The Tangara School for Girls Uniform Shop is located within the school grounds at Cherrybrook. The store is operated by Midford – a division of Georges Apparel.
To deliver a personalised service all new uniform fittings are strictly by appointment only.
Make an appointment
Parents are required to schedule a fitting appointment by clicking this link for their child's uniform.
Please note that the Uniform Shop is not currently accepting cash, however, all major credit cards are accepted.
Online uniform store
Parents are welcome to view the school’s online store via www.midford.com.au
Select Tangara School For Girls from the online School Shops Online tab
Choose 'Register an account' – the unique school pass phrase TANGARA1982 will be required
Add your personal information and create a username and password
Once an account has been established, you are able to browse
Tangara Uniform Shop : 02 9761 5454 A: 77-97 Franklin Road, Cherrybrook NSW 2126
Uniform Shop Trading Hours
Uniform Shop Trading Hours
Opening hours
Trading hours during the School Term: (excluding Public Holidays)
Monday 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Wednesday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended Term 4, 2025 Trading Hours - Tuesday, December 9 at 8AM - 4PM
Special Summer Holidays trading hours: 9AM-4PM
January 12 -14, 2026 (Mon-Wed)
January 19 - 21, 2026 (Mon-Wed)
January 27 - 29, 2026 (Tue-Thu)
Redfield Uniform Shop
Redfield Uniform Shop
The staff at the Uniform Shop would like to extend a welcome to all students, parents and families new and
existing to Redfield College Located at 855 Old Northern Road, Dural. The Uniform Shop stocks all
academic uniforms, sport uniforms and uniform accessories including school shoes.
Fitting Appointments
Throughout the school term, our opening hours are: Tuesdays 8.00 am – 4.00 pm.
All families planning a visit to the uniform store we ask that you use the below link to make an appointment.
Book an Appointment: https://midford.as.me/RedfieldCollege
An appointment typically takes 30-45 mins with all uniform items available within the uniform store.
We do ask that students be accompanied at a fitting by no more than one parent. Students may also be fitted for the uniform and purchase the uniform without a parent present. All care will be taken to fit the student correctly.
Returns
Midford’s returns policy allows for the exchange and return of uniform items. Items must be presented with
a receipt, original packaging and swing tags attached and be unworn, altered or laundered.
Payment
Please note the uniform shop is only accepting Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and EFTPOS.
Please note: No Cash is accepted.
Uniform Checklist
Uniform Checklist
Uniform Examples
Uniform Examples
Prep Uniform Examples
Kindergarten and Year 1 Uniform Examples
Primary Uniform Examples
Secondary Uniform Examples
Personal Presentation
Personal Presentation
Personal Presentation
Only the school backpack should be used each day to transport books and belongings.
Uniform
The sport uniform may not be worn when travelling to and from school without permission.
The hat must be worn when travelling to and from school, in the correct manner.
The Year 12 jersey is not an item of school uniform. It may be worn at school on specified occasions, but should never be worn with uniform in the street or in a conspicuous manner under the uniform jumper or blazer.
Black leather shoes (no patent) – flat lace-ups or ‘Mary Janes’ (for Primary only)
Hair
Shoulder length hair must be tied back. Hair fringes must be worn above the eyes. No hair must obstruct a student’s face or vision. Hair must be worn without unnatural colouring, be clean and neat, with the dignity befitting the uniform and the student’s age.
No high buns, no multi-strand braids or dreadlocks (unless these form part of a student’s particular cultural heritage).
Hair is to always be well groomed and not to be extreme in either length and/or style (eg. Any form of colouring, tails, mohawks, dreadlocks, cornrows, hair buns or ponytails, undercuts are some examples of extreme styles, which are not acceptable).
For Infants boys, reasonable length crew cuts are acceptable, however no shorter than No. 2 clipper/comb. Hair must be off the face and off the collar.
Hair ribbon and ties must be appropriate, and of the Tangara navy, true rust or white colour only. Other hair accessories (headbands, clips, combs etc.) may only be of the specified colours: navy, white or true rust.
Makeup & Jewellery
Makeup and coloured nail polish may not be worn with the Uniform. Skin problems may be treated appropriately with the permission of the school.
The only items of jewellery that may be worn with the uniform are the following:
a simple wristwatch
one pair of sleepers or stud earrings, gold or silver only: only one earring in each ear lobe.
Mufti Days
On mufti days, the school expects that all students will dress appropriately for a school event. Clothing must be neat, clean and modest. Parents will be phoned if students are dressed inappropriately.
The following are not to be worn:
Torn, frayed or ripped clothing
Jewellery or multiple earrings
Plunging necklines, bare shoulders or midriffs; visible bras or bra straps
Spaghetti-strap tops or dresses
Cut-off shorts or short skirts
Clothing with inappropriate writing and/or graphics
Thongs or sandals (covered shoes must still be worn)
Lost Property
Student belongings that have been misplaced are taken to the lost property box in the Infants admin office for students in Prep to Year 1, and to the main admin office for students in Year 2 to Year 12. Students and/or parents are welcome to check for any missing items in the lost property boxes.
Naming of Possessions
Please ensure that all your child’s belongings are clearly labelled with their full name.
Transport
Metro Station
Metro Station
Tangara is conveniently located within a 5 min walk from Cherrybrook Metro and there are buses services operating as well.
Student Transport & Concession Cards
Student Transport & Concession Cards
The School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) provides eligible school students with free or subsidised travel between home and school on public transport.
For more information: Transport for NSW PDF
School Opal Card
- Is only valid for use between home and school on the transport operators specified in your original application (only one forward and one return Approved Journey per school day).
- Can only be used between the hours of 6.30am and 7pm for school students.
- For personal travel, children aged 16 years and under should use a Child/Youth Opal card (see below).
School Opal Cards will then be sent directly to the student’s nominated address.
Apply: transportnsw.info/school-travel-apply Phone: 131 500
Child/Youth Opal Cards
Senior students will need to have their own separate Child/Youth Opal Card for excursions. These can be purchased at a train station or applied for online.
More info: School Student Travel
School Term Bus Pass
If the student does not qualify for free school travel, you may be able to buy a School Term Bus Pass.
Minimum distance
Free school travel is available to students who live outside of the following distances from their school. If you live within these distances, you are able to buy a School Term Bus Pass if you meet all the conditions:
- Year 3 to Year 6 student if the straight line distance from their home address to school is less than 1.6 kilometres.
- Year 7 to Year 12 student if the straight line distance from their home address to school is less than 2 kilometres.
More info: School Term Bus Pass
Senior Secondary Concession Cards
- Students under 16 are eligible for half-fare as children. At 16, students must obtain a concession card for continued fare discounts.
- The NSW Senior Secondary Student Concession Card allows access to concession fares at all times.
- Students must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or on a DET-approved international scholarship/exchange, residing in NSW.
More info: Guide To School Student Concession Cards
Application
- For students aged 16 and above, contact Ms. Mimi Tam at mimi.tam@tangara.nsw.edu.au to request a Concession Card. Students will be notified once the card is ready for collection.
Between Hills Schools Bus Service
Between Hills Schools Bus Service
This service accommodates families who have children at Tangara School for Girls (Cherrybrook) as well as our brother school Redfield College (Dural) and would like a single drop off/pick up location .
DEPARTURE TIMES
Monday to Friday - Return
Morning
- 7.45am Departs Tangara to Redfield
- 8.05am Departs Redfield to Tangara
Afternoon
- 3.05pm Departs Redfield to Tangara
- 3.20pm Departs Tangara to Redfield
Service Fee
- $230.00 per term, per student as of 2026. Fees are invoiced termly and payable at the start of each term via Edstart
- Submitting the application form does not guarantee a seat. If a seat is available, you will receive an email confirmation at the start of Term.
- Bus passes are issued in the first week of Term by the school admin office. No bus pass is required for the first week.
How to Apply for a Bus Seat
- Visit: Bus Service Application
- Before Term 1, you will receive an email with instructions to set up your Engage Portal account.
- Once set up, follow the steps to book your child(ren) on the Hills Schools Bus Service.
Tuition Fees
Schedule of Fees and Edstart
Schedule of Fees and Edstart
EDSTART
Overview
Tangara has partnered with Edstart , a leading provider of payment and technology services for the education sector in Australia.
Edstart is the payment platform we use to receive all fee payments .
As part of our commitment to parents, the school absorbs the administrative fees so this service is free to use .
Every family must create an Edstart Plus account before their child commences.
How does it work?
Set up your Edstart Plus account by visiting: https://edstart.com.au/
You can select the frequency of your Fee payments (weekly, fortnightly, monthly, termly or annually) as well as the date you would like to be charged, and by which payment method you prefer.
Edstart will contact you to finalise the setup for your Edstart Plus account.
Questions and support
If you have any questions regarding the payment of your child’s Fees, please contact Edstart:
- In the first instance by calling 1300 139 445 ; or
- Emailing contact@edstart.com.au
The customer service team are available Monday-Friday between 8am-8pm .
Benefits of using Edstart
- Parents can choose any date/day on a weekly, fortnightly, monthly, termly or annual basis for fee payments to be made
- Fee payments can be spread over a full 12-month period
- Changes to the payment date can be made at any time, at no cost
- Credit Card payments are surcharge-free
- During difficult times, families can be offered flexible payment schedules and payment holidays can be accommodated
- Edstart offers families an option to extend the term of their repayments beyond 12 months (there is a cost for this option called Edstart Extend).
- School fees that are paid in full by 31 January are eligible for a 3% discount.
For further information, please read our https://www.tangara.nsw.edu.au/enrol/#faqs
Withdrawal Policy
Withdrawal Policy
If parents wish to withdraw a student from the school, notice given must not be less than one full term's notice to expire at the end of a term. Notice of withdrawal must be given to the Principal/Headmaster in writing. If the required notice is not given, the Parents must pay a full school term’s fees plus GST, in lieu of notice. The written notice must be received by the first day of term. The fees will be calculated from the fee schedule immediately following the departure date. Upon receipt of notice of withdrawal, any adjustment to the invoiced tuition fees will be made. If a student is withdrawn, any balance due to the school for that Student, must be paid in full, on or before the student’s final day of attendance.