Dear Families and Girls
It is a pleasure to welcome all our families to the new school year, with an especially warm welcome to those who are joining our community for the first time. I hope the holidays and Christmas season have been a time of rest and renewal with family and friends.
As always over the holidays, our Property team spent time refreshing many of our facilities and taking special care to ensure the gardens are beautiful. This week, staff across the school gathered for professional learning and to prepare for our students’ return.
In This Issue
Term 4, 2025
- Thanksgiving and Celebrations (19 Dec)
- Resources available Bondi incident (17 Dec)
- Colour Play Sand Recall (21 Nov)
- P&F AGM Update (11 Nov)
- Danebank 2025 Speech Night and Carols Evenings (30 Oct)
- Danebank Founder's Day Award Nominations 2026 (28 Oct)
- 2026 Senior School Staff Announcements (24 Oct)
- Welcome to Term 4, 2025
Term 1 2026
Anzac Day Holiday (18 Feb)
Anzac Day Holiday (18 Feb)
Dear Families and Girls
You may be aware that The Hon. Chris Minns MP, Premier of New South Wales, has recently announced an extra public holiday for NSW. As Anzac Day (25 April) is falling on a Saturday this year, the following Monday (27 April) will be an additional public holiday, recognising the importance and significance of Anzac Day.
Consequently, Danebank will be closed to all students and staff on Monday 27 April.
Danebank Autumn Fair and Open Day 2026 (18 Feb)
Danebank Autumn Fair and Open Day 2026 (18 Feb)
Dear Parents and Carers
I hope you and your family have settled into the routine of the new academic year and that your daughter has had a positive and productive start to 2026.
Our cocktail evening was a wonderful success. The event was a strong reminder of the strength and character of the Danebank community, and I greatly look forward to our upcoming Open Day and Autumn Fair on Saturday 9 May.
As I shared last year, preparations for our Autumn Fair are well underway. Under the guidance and oversight of our Head of Community Engagement, Mrs Ina Dorfling, I am pleased to share that Mrs Nadine Lee, an alumnae parent who was the fair convenor for many years, will be coordinating the internal stalls, while current parent Mrs Nicola Ware will coordinate the external stalls. Both bring deep knowledge of the event and we thank them sincerely for their time and support.
Thank you to families who have already volunteered to help with the Autumn Fair and other community events this year. Please continue to explore the volunteering opportunities available and register your interest here . You will also receive a detailed email shortly with further information about the fair and the various ways you may choose to assist.
Autumn Fair really is the perfect opportunity to get involved in our community and we thank all our families for generously donating their time and resources. This support contributes to the continued growth of Danebank and each girl’s learning experience. As in the past, funds raised go directly to enriching our girls’ education.
Thank you for your participation and support.
Welcome to Term 1, 2026 (23 Jan)
Welcome to Term 1, 2026 (23 Jan)
Internationally-renowned neuroscientist Dr Jared Cooney Horvath conducted a series of learning sessions with Danebank staff on Wednesday. Dr Cooney Horvath is globally respected as a cognitive neuroscientist and teacher who specialises in the science of learning. With a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Melbourne and a Masters in Mind, Brain, and Education from Harvard University, Dr Cooney Horvath has worked with thousands of educators worldwide to translate complex neuroscience into practical strategies.
We were delighted that he was able to schedule the professional learning at Danebank at the start of a short visit to Australia.
The opportunity for our staff to learn from an international expert is part of our continued implementation of the Danebank Approach to Learning. Dr Horvarth, who holds a deep belief in the expertise and impact of teachers, shared key research into strengthening attention, memory and motivation. His insights and thoughtful provocation inspired our teachers to consider how best to engage our girls as they grow into confident, capable learners, becoming all they are purposed to be.
Yesterday, the 2025 recipient of the Edith Roseby Ball Keynote Award, Ms Emma Pay, Director of Teacher Practice P-12, shared and explored her personal learnings in her career journey as a teacher.
The award recognises and celebrates the achievements of current staff, acknowledging the talent and wisdom of our colleagues.
Being Senior School Orientation Day today, it was a delight to see the girls in their new uniforms eager to discover the intricacies of campus life, daily schedules and weekly activities. We pray for all our new families at this time as they settle into the community.
There are many wonderful events, activities and excursions planned for Junior and Senior School students this year. The Edumate calendar is available through the Danebank app for more information. Please also look out for emails from the Deputy Principals with important information about the start of the school year and the term ahead.
Allow me, though, to remind you to register for the annual Cocktail Evening on Friday 6 February 2026 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. All current and new 2026 parents are warmly invited to attend.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership as we begin the new school year. I look forward to seeing you soon.
Term 4, 2025
Thanksgiving and Celebrations (19 Dec)
Thanksgiving and Celebrations (19 Dec)
Dear Families and Girls
I hope this end-of-year message finds you well and that you are enjoying these final weeks of 2025. The campus has been a hive of activity since the students completed the term, as we conclude the year and begin preparations for 2026. Our Park Road façade is currently being refreshed and several areas of the school are receiving a fresh coat of paint.
We have so much to be thankful for as we finish the 2025 school year. I invite you to continue reading for reflections on the year and information as we look ahead to 2026.
Christmas
It was a joy to celebrate Christmas through the Junior School’s “Twinkly Nativity” play and Carol Services in both Junior and Senior School. We give thanks for the greatest gift of all: Jesus Christ, our Saviour. Luke 2:10-11 reminds us of the meaning of this gift:
"But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'".
Learning and Growth
We are thankful for the continued learning, growth and development of each girl throughout 2025. Along with our continued excellence in teaching, learning and care, there have been a number of developments to benefit the girls’s learning:
- Project Based Learning initiatives
- Gifted and High Potential Programs
- Active Volunteering Microcredential
- Learning curriculum roadmaps
- Embedding the Danebank Approach to Learning in reports, programs and assessments
We also enjoyed international trips to France, Cambodia and Borneo.
Our co-curricular programs have continued to thrive this year. The Term 4 Celebration of Music and Dance highlighted the depth and vibrancy of our Performing Arts offerings. Our gymnastics program flourished, the Podium Ready Program provided strong support for elite athletes, and Danebank’s swimming program continued to go from strength to strength.
HSC
We celebrated the achievements of our HSC students yesterday. Congratulations again to the girls for their effort, progress and accomplishments. We continue to pray for our Class of 2025 as they start the next adventure in their lives and look forward to hearing about the exciting times ahead.
Wellbeing and Care
This year has been a season of growth in student wellbeing and care. Junior School students participated in bespoke programs facilitated by our dedicated counselling team, including Peaceful Kids, Friendship Groups, and Picnic Group, while Senior School students engaged in sessions on connection, mental health, stress management and healthy relationships. We also strengthened support through new wellbeing teams in both Junior and Senior Schools. We are thankful for Dr Judith Locke’s presentations and resources which enriched our partnership with families.
Building Works
The next stages of our Master Plan are underway, with Development Applications (DAs) submitted for Stage 3A (Senior School Study Centre) and Stage 3B (Science Labs). We were also grateful for the opportunity to purchase 107 The Avenue.
Recognising our Outstanding Staff
We sincerely thank all our staff for their remarkable commitment to the girls’ education throughout the year. Our teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to deliver exceptional learning experiences, provide pastoral care, enhance our beautiful learning environment and ensure the smooth running of the school.
Staff continued to demonstrate their commitment to ongoing professional growth through a variety of offerings, including leadership training, collaborative professional learning groups, reflective lesson observations, and the P-6 Numeracy Project facilitated by the Association of Independent Schools NSW.
We farewelled a number of long service staff members at the end of this year, most of whom are retiring after decades of outstanding service. We sincerely thank Mr Michael Wotton, Mrs Jocelyn Hartley, Mrs Daniela Clark, Ms Karen Springstub and Mrs Margaret McLay for their dedication and commitment to our community.
Our Strategic Momentum
I am pleased to share the Strategic Momentum Booklet outlining our progress in enriching learning, enabling wellbeing and care, empowering our staff, enlightening hearts and engaging our community.
Thank you to our community for your support, collaboration and input as we work together towards our shared aspiration for our girls. We are so grateful for families, carers, alumnae, volunteers and all who have partnered with us this year.
Speech Night 2025
Our Annual Speech Night in the Sydney Town Hall was a highlight of the year. Congratulations to all the award recipients and each of our students for their growth in learning, character, faith and social development this year. Special thanks to the staff and teams who made this outstanding event such a special night.
Click here to view our commemorative video of the evening, and here to visit the portal with pictures. This link takes you to the year-in-review video shown at Speech Night.
Looking to 2026
Community Cocktail Evening
Please register for our annual Cocktail Evening, Friday 6 February 2026 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. All current and new 2026 parents are invited to attend. Organised by parent volunteers, the event will be held in the Danebank Community Lounge, Level 2, Carole Tisdell Learning Centre Building (enter via the Colonnade Gates). Please note that the Cocktail Event is open to adults only.
Uniform Shop Reminders
Danebank’s uniform shop is now closed, with Monday 12 January as the first trading day for 2026. The shop will be closed on the public holiday (Monday 26 January). Opening hours, details and ordering information can be found here.
Danebank 2026 Handbook
Please save this link to the electronic version of Danebank’s 2026 Handbook containing important information, such as:
- Attendance
- School policies, rules and expectations
- 2026 term dates
- Uniform information
- School counselling and wellbeing services
- Stationery requirements
- BYOD requirements (Senior School)
- Sport opportunities
- Extra and co-curricular activities
I warmly wish our Danebank families a safe, refreshing holiday season and a peaceful Christmas as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.
I look forward to welcoming you back in 2026.
- Year 7 and new senior student orientation: Friday 23 January 2026
- All Students Commence Term 1: Tuesday 27 January 2026
Resources available Bondi incident (17 Dec)
Resources available Bondi incident (17 Dec)
Dear Families,
I am writing to share information about support services currently available following the tragic incident at Bondi on Sunday 14 December. This was a deeply distressing event, and our thoughts and prayers remain with all those affected.
We understand the impact events like this can have on children and young people, even if they are not directly involved. During the school holidays, increased access to news and social media can sometimes heighten feelings of worry or distress. The resources below are provided to support you and your family, should you find them helpful.
Resources for Parents and Carers
Kids Helpline fact sheets:
Beyond Blue:
Lifeline:
ReachOut:
Support Services for Students
NSW Mental Health Line:
- Free, 24/7 state-wide service linking people of all ages with NSW Health mental health services
- Phone: 1800 011 511
Kids Helpline:
- For children and young people aged 5–25
- Phone: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au (webchat available)
We continue to pray for those who are grieving, injured or traumatised, and the emergency and medical teams responding.
Colour Play Sand Recall (21 Nov)
Colour Play Sand Recall (21 Nov)
Dear Parents and Carers
We are writing to inform you about a recent safety alert concerning certain sandboxes that have been recalled by the manufacturer. Please click here for the official notice for your reference.
The product has not been used in our classrooms. A small container of product has been isolated and removed in accordance with safety instructions. We want to reassure you that we have acted promptly in accordance with the safety alert and ensured that the product will not be used within the school in future. The wellbeing of our students is always our highest priority, and we take these matters seriously.
At this stage, we have not been advised of any risk to our students. However, we understand that such news can cause concern, and we encourage you to contact us if you have any questions or would like further clarification. Please contact our Deputy Principals, Mrs Hufton (Senior School) or Mrs Buckley (Junior School), who will be happy to assist you.
Thank you for your understanding and support as we continue to maintain a safe and caring environment for all our students.
P&F AGM Update (11 Nov)
P&F AGM Update (11 Nov)
Dear Parents and Carers,
I am writing to provide an update on the Parents & Friends Annual General Meeting (P&F AGM) held last night, Monday 10 November.
In order to hold the AGM and elect a committee, a quorum of 15 financial members needed to be present. Unfortunately, the meeting could not proceed as we did not have a quorum. As a result, Mr Mark Daly, Chairman of the Danebank Council, officially closed the meeting.
This follows the recent Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) which was also widely promoted and at which a quorum was also not present.
We are keen to continue the activities and events organised by the P&F and will provide more information about these arrangements in due course.
We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the parents who had served on the 2025 P&F Executive Committee. Their dedication and willingness to volunteer their time is deeply appreciated:
- Mary Fitzpatrick, President
- Mary Nacoski, Vice-President
- Vicki Waterhouse, Vice-President
- Nicola Ware, Treasurer
- Wendy Caragiannis, Secretary
We also thank every member of our parent community for generously donating their time and money throughout 2025. This support has contributed to the continued growth of the community life of Danebank, and each girl’s learning experience.
While the meeting could not be held due to the absence of a quorum, it’s also worth noting that only one nomination was received for a 2026 committee position. As with so many other schools, we have come to realise that our parent community is finding it increasingly difficult to commit to long-term volunteering roles, but remains able and happy to volunteer for shorter events or tasks. Our school is truly grateful for the wonderful community we have.
Danebank 2025 Speech Night and Carols Evenings (30 Oct)
Danebank 2025 Speech Night and Carols Evenings (30 Oct)
Dear Families and Girls
It is with pleasure that I extend a warm invitation for you to attend our 92nd Annual Speech Night on Wednesday 3 December in Sydney Town Hall.
As is customary, students will be dismissed from learning at Danebank at 12:30pm on Wednesday 3 December to allow time for students and staff to travel into the city for final rehearsals before the evening ceremony commences at 7pm. As is the case with previous years, families are responsible for transport to and from the venue.
Details
- Date: Wednesday 3 December 2025
- Venue: Sydney Town Hall
- Time: Doors open at 6.30pm. Proceedings start at 7pm sharp. The event will conclude at approximately 9.30pm.
Please note that attendance is compulsory for:
- All students in Years 3 to 12
- All award recipients in Kindergarten to Year 2
- Year 2 students who are performing in The Melodies Choir
All students must be in full summer uniform, including their blazer. They should take their seats alphabetically with their year groups in the allocated seating. Guest seating is limited and any latecomers will be directed to seats upstairs at the sides of the hall.
You and your daughter will receive further information regarding attendance, awards, rehearsals and further logistics from the Deputy Principals Junior and Senior School, or from staff involved in the organisation of the event.
Danebank School Carols
Our annual Carols Celebration Services are also fast approaching. Please mark these dates in your diary as we invite you to join with your daughters to celebrate and give thanks for the birth of our Saviour. Please note, this is a compulsory event for all students.
- Junior School Carols: Tuesday 25 November, 6:30pm in the PAC
(Pre-K students are not required to attend, although they are very welcome)
- Senior School Carols: Thursday 27 November, 6:30pm in the PAC
We look forward to celebrating these wonderful occasions with you and your daughter.
Danebank Founder's Day Award Nominations 2026 (28 Oct)
Danebank Founder's Day Award Nominations 2026 (28 Oct)
Dear Danebank Families and students,
On Founder’s Day every year, Danebank presents awards to members of our close and extended Danebank community who have been serving in and making an impact on the community. Nominations for these awards are now open for three different categories aligned with our motto, Ut Prosim, that I may serve.
The Edith Roseby Ball Award for Compassion: given annually to a current student or alumna who has acted on behalf of those less fortunate than themselves. The award is named in honour of the school's foundational teacher and first headmistress, Miss Edith Roseby Ball, who enrolled students with learning and other disabilities, a rare consideration in the 1930s. The award was first given on Founder's Day 2008 at the celebrations of the school's 75th Anniversary.
The Valerie Crakanthorp Award for Initiative and Philanthropy: given annually to a member of the Danebank Community who has endeavoured to assist others through significant initiatives and/or the raising of generous funds for worthwhile causes. The award is named in honour of Mrs Valerie Crakanthorp whose financial generosity and initiative were instrumental in funding and commencing education here at Danebank. The award was first given on Founder's Day 2008 at the celebration of the school's 75th anniversary.
The Old Girls Association Citizenship Award (only available to the daughter of a Danebank alumna) The Old Girls Association Citizenship Award is a generous 25% off student tuition fees for one year, and highlights the importance of good citizenship and involvement within the school and wider community.
Note:
- This award is open to senior school students only.
- Students on any Danebank Scholarships are not eligible for the award.
- Students may only receive this award once during their time at Danebank.
- Nominations should be submitted via this link
Nomination should be made via the relevant google form links as listed above, no later than 24 November 2025.
2026 Senior School Staff Announcements (24 Oct)
2026 Senior School Staff Announcements (24 Oct)
Dear Families,
The beginning of Term 4 has brought a vibrant atmosphere to the school, with the girls settling in and reconnecting with the rhythm of school life.
I am pleased to share the following staff leadership appointments for 2026, made in response to parental leave and long service leave arrangements next year. These educators will bring a wealth of experience, care and leadership to their positions.
- Acting Assistant Head of Senior School (Wellbeing): Mrs Alexandra Coulton
- Acting Assistant Head of Senior School (Learning): Mrs Cassie Griffiths
As Mrs Coulton and Mrs Griffiths step into these roles, we are delighted that:
- Mrs Ashleigh Driscoll will continue as Acting Head of English
- Ms Karla Wootton will act as Head of TAS, alongside her current position as Head of VET.
I am pleased to inform you that Miss Kirrily Foley has been appointed as Head of Christian Studies. After more than 20 years of faithful service, Mrs Jocelyn Hartley will be leaving Danebank following her long service leave in Term 1 2026. We are deeply grateful for her dedication and leadership of the Christian Studies Department.
Welcome to Term 4, 2025
Welcome to Term 4, 2025
Dear Families and Girls
Welcome to Term 4. I hope you found time to rest and recharge during the holidays and are looking forward to the new term starting tomorrow.
The campus has been a hive of activity during the holidays and I sincerely thank our Property Team for all the wonderful work that has been done.
International trip
Welcome home to our staff and students who were on the study tour to Paris and Strasbourg during the holidays. This immersive experience enabled the girls to experience some French culture and has complemented their learning in languages, culture, the arts and technology. We are looking forward to hearing more about their trip soon.
HSC
Our Class of 2025, as well as a number of Year 11 accelerated students, begin their HSC exams this Thursday. The exam block ends on Friday 7 November. Please keep the girls in your prayers in the coming weeks.
HSC prayer meeting
Every year we host a prayer meeting for parents to attend on the morning of the first HSC exam (Thursday 16 October). Starting at 10am, the meeting is held in the Conference Room on Level 2 of the Carole Tisdell Learning Centre. It will conclude at 10:45am. I encourage all Year 12 parents and carers to attend. There is no expectation that everyone will pray aloud, as some people may prefer to listen.
Events in Term 4
There is much to look forward to this term, including:
- Celebration of Music and Dance: Wednesday 15 October
- The 5-year reunion for the Class of 2020
- Year 12 (2026) Afternoon Tea with Parents: Tuesday 21 October
- Welcoming Year 6 students to our Year 7 Taster Day and Grading Assessment: Monday 27 October
- Junior School Father-Daughter Camp: Friday 31 October to Sunday 2 November
- Parents and Friends Association AGM: Monday 10 November
- Year 10 Leadership Camp: Monday 17 to Thursday 20 November
- Roseby Dance: Tuesday 11 November
- Year 8 Camp: Monday 17 to Wednesday 19 November
- Infants Nativity Play: Thursday 13 November
- Year 9 Nursing Home Concert: Wednesday 19 November
- Junior School Transition Day: Friday 21 November
- Year 10 Formal: Friday 21 November
Speech Night: Wednesday 3 December
Our 92nd Annual Speech Night on Wednesday 3 December at Sydney Town Hall marks the final day of school for the year. Students will be dismissed from learning at Danebank at 12:30pm to allow time for the girls and staff to travel into the city to set up and conduct final rehearsals. Please be reminded that transport to and from the venue is the responsibility of families.
Doors open at 6:30pm and the evening’s events start at 7pm sharp. We will send more details shortly, but in the meantime, please save the date.
Please note that attendance is compulsory for:
- All students in Years 3 to 12
- All award recipients in Kindergarten to Year 2
- Year 2 students who are performing in The Melodies Choir
Carols
We are excited to invite you to celebrate and give thanks for the birth of our Saviour at our annual Carols services. This is a compulsory event for all students.
- Junior School Carols: Tuesday 25 November, 6pm in the PAC. Pre-K students are not required to attend, although they are very welcome.
- Senior School Carols: Thursday 27 November, 6pm in the PAC
Scholarship applications
Danebank has a suite of full and half scholarships for students entering Year 7 for which we invite current Year 5 students to apply. Scholarship applications for 2027 open on Monday 10 November. For more information, including scholarship expectations and application closing dates, please refer to our scholarship portal.
Uniform
All students should return to school wearing the summer uniform. We expect the girls to take responsibility for wearing their uniforms correctly.
I look forward to seeing the girls tomorrow, and to joining with our community at this term’s special events.
Term 3, 2025
Year 12 HSC Showcase
Year 12 HSC Showcase
Dear Families and Girls,
I am delighted to invite you to this very special evening. Showcase presents the final major projects and performances from this year’s HSC cohort studying Textiles and Design, Design and Technology, Visual Arts and Drama. This event is an excellent opportunity for you to view and explore the hard work and wonderful creativity of our senior students. The girls will be on hand to discuss their journey and inspirations.
- Friday 15 August 2025
- 6pm - 7.45pm
- Danebank PAC Building (Please enter via The Colonnade, 97 The Avenue Hurstville)
The Showcase will entail exhibitions, performances and refreshments:
- Exhibition spaces will open at 6pm in PAC1, PAC2 and the upper PAC Foyer
- Light refreshments will be provided by the Year 11 Hospitality students
- Drama performances will commence at 7pm in the PAC Auditorium
We look forward to seeing you on the night.
Warm regards
Welcome to Term 3
Welcome to Term 3
Dear Families and Girls
Welcome back to Term 3. I hope the break has been a chance for you and your daughters to rest and recharge as we prepare to return to school, ready for the opportunities of the new term.
Thank you for the warm, heartfelt welcome I have been receiving as I commence as Principal. From my earliest visits, it has been clear that Danebank is a kind and connected community, and I am grateful for the generous support of students, staff and our families.
There is a clear sense of shared purpose here as the community works together to create an environment where students are supported, challenged and encouraged to grow. This strength is the result of years of partnership between students, staff and families, and I am truly delighted to now be part of it.
At the centre of Danebank’s identity is the strong Christian foundation of the gospel of Jesus that deeply resonates with me. This foundation will continue to shape the way we relate to one another, the way we lead and our approach to learning.
I am impressed with Danebank’s commitment to an engaging learning environment for every student, the focus on faith and character, and the strong relationships. It is clear that these priorities work together to grow our girls to become what they are purposed to be. Students thrive when they are both stretched and supported, and when they are taught by staff who know them well and care about their learning and wellbeing.
As we begin the new term, I want to acknowledge the excellent work already underway. The staff team at Danebank is focused, experienced and dedicated. Their energy for the term ahead is clear, and they remain committed to delivering purposeful learning experiences and ongoing support for every student.
As I am keen to connect with our parents and carers, I have arranged for a series of Coffee and Chat events in the Community Lounge in the Carole Tisdell Learning Centre. Please register by clicking on the event you are interested in attending:
- Friday 15 August: 8:30am to 9:30am
- Tuesday 26 August: 6:30pm to 7:30pm
- Wednesday 10 September: 3.30pm to 4:30pm
I look forward to meeting you in the coming weeks and thank you again for your warm welcome.
With kind regards