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Yesterday, I was lucky enough to be privy to a scene that provided enough food for the soul to keep me going for a while.
There were the Class 8’s making their way back into Chrysalis and reveling in utter delight as they made their way to the endpoint of their nine day journey.
I didn't need to ask "How was it?', as their faces said it all. There they were grinning from ear to ear as they had just been fortunate enough to experience all of the best that life has to offer.
They were a picture of health and glowing with a sense of great achievement as they knew that together they had achieved something worthwhile and that at this very moment their hard toil and sweat had paid off.
It was right there back on the Chrysalis boundary that the emotion was at its peak. Here they were at the point they had been dreaming about for days, and yet, they knew that as soon as they crossed back into Chrysalis, their nine day journey had come to its end.
It is moments like this, that provide us with the greatest of thanks and reiterate time and time again the value of a 'journey' and the need for them in this world.
Thank you to everyone that was involved in bringing this trip together. We are extremely grateful to you all!
yaarri yarrang, Lisa
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Class 8 Wilderness Walk Group 1 Reflections...
After nine days out in the magic of the valley, our group transitioned back yesterday with smiles and teary hugs from parents. This Year 8 wilderness walk had a little bit of everything! Sunshine, rain, stomach aches, wind, and frost, and the students learned to take it all in their stride. Starting out with days of chatter about discomfort, Netflix shows, and social media, the students slowly dropped into their surroundings. They started noticing the river, the trees, the birds and telling time through the colour of the sky and the feeling in their bodies. Knots that were confusing became second nature. Practices that seemed 'icky' at first became normal. I am so proud of this group- of the kindness and support they showed each other, the physical and mental challenges they overcame, and their new appreciation of type-two fun. I have no doubt that the seeds are sown and skills learned throughout our time together will serve them far into their futures.
Kiva - High School Teacher
Class 8 Wilderness Walk Group 2 Reflections...
The group embarked upon an incredible adventure into the New England Wilderness over nine days where they challenged themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. Collectively the group managed to go to some amazing places in each of those realms whilst further developing their connection with the land, teachers, and peers.
It was such a wonderful experience which I imagine will stay with each member for life. I am really proud of each and every student in the way they approached the challenge and their willingness to open to the teachings of the land.
Congratulations on a stellar effort!
James Ross - High School Teacher
Please click here to see just a few of the many pictures from Class 8 Camp...
Message from the Music Department...
Many families will have received USBs from the music department with String music for their children to listen to as they learn the pieces.
If you still need the USB to use at home that's fine. However, if you have downloaded it onto your listening devices at home could you please return the USB to school so we can re-issue it to other families.
Kym - Music Teacher
School Fees for Term 3...
Invoices for Term 3 were sent out at the end of the holidays, with payment due today, Friday 23 July. Please pay your term's fees in full, unless arrangements have been made to pay by instalments. The forms are available on our website or by calling the front office. A reminder that the school has Fee Payment Incentives to encourage and reward timely payments. If you have any questions regarding your recent invoice or statement, please email accounts@chrysalis.nsw.edu.au.
Parent/Teacher interviews...
Parent/Teacher interviews are continuing. If you still need to book a time with your child's teacher please do so through the parent portal. Please don't hesitate to contact the office if you are having difficulty and we can assist you with the booking.
COVID-19 update...
Anyone who is sick with flu-like symptoms, or has been to an interstate or NSW hotspot in the last 14 days, should not attend school. If you plan to leave your vehicle when dropping off or picking up your child from school you will be required to wear a mask and sign in either manually or via QR code at the office first, as all visitors and staff at school are now required to sign in on every occasion.
Regulations require that students above the age of 12 must wear a mask on the school bus whilst commuting to and from school. Please ensure your child has a mask each school day. We will keep you updated if circumstances change.
Reminders...
Tennis Class 6 & 7 - Friday 23 July and Friday 13 August
Class 2 Saints Excursion - Monday 26 July
Class 6 & 7 Snow Camp - Thursday 29 July - Saturday 7 August
Tennis Class 8 - Friday 30 July and Friday 6 & 13 August
High School Information Evening - 10 August
Class 5 Greek Olympics - Thursday 12 - Friday 13 August
Book Week - Saturday 21 - Friday 27 August
yaarri yarraang,
Lisa & the Leadership Team
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Defibrillator Now Installed...
A life saving AED device (automated external defibrillator) is now fully installed outside the office door at Chrysalis. It's available for anyone to use, should the unfortunate need arise. Please spread the word around the Thora community.
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Wilderness Camp River Poem...
River,
Ever-present in our ‘regular’ lives,
You have been thrust to the forefront.
As we
drink,
swim,
fish,
cook,
and play
you move with us through the valleys.
This group yo-yos beside you,
Moving apart and then back together.
Bored and sore, rapping and laughing,
These young leaders grow stronger-
Packs get lighter-
They begin to notice more.
Small acts of kindness make up our days.
Jerky shared,
Water collected,
Extra weight carried,
Shoes tied for each other.
The communal processes bring us closer.
Now, two days out, there are two voices in our heads;
One screams of hot showers,
Soft beds,
And familiar hugs.
But another voice whispers as well-
With the cadence of rapid moving water,
The promise of sunlight dancing through trees,
And the feeling of tingly skin after a fresh dip.
Months from now, we’ll all have fond memories;
Of solo night slugs, cereal bowl night skies, and smoky clothes.
Oh river,
We have shadowed your lulls and rapids-
Your banks have guided us from mountain to home,
And my heart is full from our time spent together.
Kiva – Class 8 Wilderness Walk Leader
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Chrysalis acknowledges the Gumbaynggirr land in which we reside and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities.
At Chrysalis we pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to elders both past, present and emerging.
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The deadline for contributions and community notices for the next newsletter is COB on Wednesday 28 July.
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