In 2025 we introduced The OCS Way as a unified framework to bring greater clarity and consistency to behaviour expectations and student awards across our school. This initiative has already strengthened the culture of calm, purposeful, and high expectations that helps students thrive. As Staw reminds us, “The consistency of behavioural expectations and the order within the school give children the best chance [for success].” (The Power of Culture, p. 88). When expectations are clear and upheld by all, students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

A central belief behind the OCS Way is that “Nobody rises to low expectations.” (Calvin Lloyd). By setting high standards for conduct, effort, and character—and by recognising students when they meet them—we encourage every child to grow.

The OCS Way also guides the layers of wellbeing support that students can access, and it is hoped this provides greater understanding for students to know who they can speak to when they are needing additional support.

This year, we are seeking to increase clarity even further. Classroom posters will provide visual reminders of the OCS Way expectations, and families will receive more communication to help reinforce shared language and shared goals.

We deeply appreciate the support of our families as we partner together in the education and formation of their children. Your encouragement at home strengthens what we build at school, and together we give students the strongest foundation for success.

Staw, P. In Birbalsingh, K. (Ed). 2020. Michaela: The Power of Culture. John Catt Educational Publishing.

Welcome back to all our families, and a warm welcome to those who have recently joined us across the Primary years, from Kindergarten through to Year 6. The Primary team is looking forward to a term where students are encouraged to do their best, care for one another, build strong friendships, and enjoy the many learning opportunities ahead. Our Dedication Service and Meet the Teacher Evening were wonderful opportunities to connect as a community.

Please remember that Stage welcome letters, with key information and dates, are available on the school app, and we encourage you to check it regularly to stay up to date with class information and upcoming events. We are also pleased to welcome Mrs Emily Kitcher, who has joined the school this year as an Academic Support Teacher and will be working closely with Primary teachers and the ASO’s to support students’ learning and growth.

Welcome back to Term 1, 2026. It has been a joy to see students return to campus full of energy, enthusiasm, and anticipation for the year ahead. The beginning of a new school year always brings a sense of fresh beginnings, and it has been wonderful to see our secondary students settling quickly into routines, reconnecting with friends, and engaging positively with learning.

A very warm welcome to our new students and, in particular, our Year 7 cohort. They have had a strong start to secondary school, with a week focused on orientation activities, finding their way around, meeting staff, and learning the rhythms and expectations of secondary life at OCS. It has been encouraging to see their confidence grow as the week has progressed.

It was also a pleasure to connect with so many parents and carers at the Secondary Meet the Teacher evening on Thursday night. These early opportunities to partner together are invaluable. Hearing more about how secondary school operates, learning about subject expectations, and meeting the teachers who will be working closely with your children helps establish strong foundations for the year ahead. Our Dedication Service that followed provided a meaningful opportunity to commit the year to God, praying for our students, staff, families, and the wider Orange community.

As we move into the year, we will continue to work within the OCS Way approach to learning, assessment, and reporting. Our focus remains on academic growth, clear expectations, and meaningful feedback that supports students to understand their progress and take ownership of their learning.

I would also like to warmly welcome several new staff members to our Secondary team: Mr Anthony Sakr (Stage Coordinator Years 7–9 and Sport Coordinator), Mr Luke Turner-Mann (Mathematics), Mr Steve Marland (IT and Mathematics), Mrs Rachel Crane (CAPA), Mrs Emily Kitcher (CAPA and Academic Support Teacher), Mr Jacob Pulling (Academic Support Officer), Mrs Stacey Yaroslavceff (Academic Support Officer), Ms Rebecca Geddes (Academic Support Officer), and Mrs Claire Pulling (Chaplain). We also acknowledge a change in role this year for Mrs Cat Pankhurst, who is now our Stage Coordinator for Years 10–12 and Careers Coordinator. We are grateful for the leadership and experience she brings to these important roles.

For pastoral care matters, parents are encouraged to make initial contact with their child’s Homeroom teacher or Stage Coordinator. Academic enquiries should be directed to KLA Coordinators. In Secondary, Academic Support is overseen by Mrs Rachel Crane (Years 7–9) and Mrs Cindy Hales (Years 10–12).

As we begin this year together, we remain committed to strong Christian foundations, purposeful learning, and a genuine partnership with families as we support each student to grow and flourish.

The Christmas break was a busy and productive time for our administration team, with a number of improvements made across the school grounds.

Our school nurse, Ms Taylor Lake, now has a dedicated reception window and First Aid room, making it easier for students to access support when they need it. The admin team also now have a dedicated tea room, freeing up the meeting room for… meetings.

Several site improvements were completed, including the addition of a door to the E-Block Academic Growth Centre and new tree planting in front of G and H Blocks to further green-up our campus. Thanks to the success of our Disco Trivia Fundraiser Night, we have also installed a new filtered drinking fountain and bottle-fill station, and our Prep outdoor play area bridge has been given an overhaul.

We are incredibly grateful for the skilled tradies within our school community who completed these projects professionally and promptly, as well as for the dedicated staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to rearrange rooms and rehome equipment.

Finally, we have introduced a new visitor sign-in system. When visiting the school, please sign in using the iPad at reception or the QR codes located around the campus. This quick and easy system helps us ensure everyone’s safety by knowing who is on site in case of an emergency.

These wonderful students and their families are excellent representatives of our school displaying growing leadership qualities, as well as the OCS values of Compassion, Humility, Respect, Integrity, Strength and Truth. We are excited to see the influence of these students over the year as they flourish in their roles.

As we step into a new school year, sport at Orange Christian School is already taking shape with a strong sense of direction and community. My name is Anthony (AJ) Sakr, and it’s a pleasure to introduce myself as the new Sport Coordinator. Having recently moved to Orange, I’m grateful for the warm welcome and look forward to building on the excellent work already established by the OCS Sport department.

Sport at OCS continues to be a valuable space for students to grow in character, teamwork, and resilience. I’m eager to support our students as they develop their skills and contribute to a positive sporting culture throughout the year.

PDHPE Expectations

Students are expected to wear the correct OCS PDHPE uniform and participate actively in all practical lessons unless a valid medical exemption is provided. Full details are available in the existing PDHPE Expectations document.

What’s Coming Up At School?

Swimming Carnival – 6 February

Our first major school event of the year, bringing students together for a day of friendly competition and house spirit.

Far West Zone Swimming Carnival (Hosted by OCS) – 19 February

A significant opportunity for our swimmers to compete at the next level, and a privilege for OCS to host.

Secondary Athletics Carnival – 20 March

A key event for our secondary students to demonstrate their effort, determination, and athletic growth.

🏃‍♀️Primary Athletics Carnival – 27 March

A highlight for our primary students as they participate in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Representative Pathways & CSSA Events

Students will also have opportunities to participate in a range of representative events throughout Term 1, including:

• CSSA Secondary State Hockey – 27 February
• CSSA Secondary Open Girls Soccer Trials & CSSA Primary Touch Football Trials – 2 March
• CSSA Primary State Swimming – 5 March
• CSSA Primary Girls Netball Trials – 9 March
• CSSA Secondary Open Boys Soccer Trials – 13 March
• CSSA Secondary 15&U & Open Touch Football Trials – 20 March
• CSSA Secondary State Swimming – 24 March
• CIS Primary Swimming & Diving Championships – 25 March

Further information and expressions of interest will be shared through the school newsletter and sport communication channels.

Celebrating Our Sporting Community in 2026

We value the achievements of our students both within and beyond school sport. If your child is involved in sporting activities outside of OCS, we welcome photos or updates so we can acknowledge their efforts and encourage them in their pursuits.

With a full and meaningful year ahead, I’m looking forward to seeing our students participate, grow, and honour God through their involvement in sport.

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. – 1 Corinthians 10:31

I’m excited to begin this journey with the OCS community and look forward to what 2026 will bring.