Last Thursday the students of Heritage College organised a Bushfire Fundraiser for the victims of the bushfires in Victoria. The objective was to stretch a line of coins across the basketball court at Heritage College. We weren't sure whether we would receive enough donated coins to achieve this, but not only did the line extend lengthways across the court, but halfway back as well. The students donated about $500 and the P&F matched the donation to bring the total to $1000.

Thank you to all the parents and students who showed such generosity towards those who have suffered so much in Victoria.

Bushfire Fundraiser

Gamla Wins the Swimming CarnivalLast Friday the Heritage College Swimming Carnival was held at Morisset Pool. Our two school teams, Masada and Gamla, competed in a range of swimming events and showed great sportsmanship. We were very pleased to see so many parents and friends visit the pool for at least part of the day. It was a great event. Well done to both teams, but particularly Gamla who won the day.

Congratulations also to Reuben Ryan, Lori Stretton, Sam Dodson and Jordan Ryan who all gained awards for being Champion Swimmers for their age group.

The best swimmers from the carnival will go on to compete in the HRIS Swimming Carnival to be held soon at Lambton Pool.

 Congratulations to Jessica Ginn and Eleanor Mitchell who have been appointed School Captains for this year. Jessica gave a fantastic acceptance speech at the Assembly on Monday morning and she aims to lead the students on their journey through 2009 here at Heritage College.

 On Monday February 9, a special assembly was held to congratulate the 2008 cohort of year 12 students. In particular, Eliza Davis was singled out as the DUX of the School for 2008. She gained an excellent UAI of 92.65. Eliza also received an award for being on the list of NSW Distinguished Achievers, as did Chanan Crompton. Students who received other awards were Luke Carroll, James Lynch, Jessica Ginn and Naomi Schofield. Thank you to Lisa Sheridan who gave an excellent speech at the assembly. Thank you to all the parents who attended.

 On Thursday 5 February there will be information sessions held for parents with children at Heritage College. The Infants session will commence at 2:15pm, the Primary Session at 3:15pm and the High School session at 4:00pm. We look forward to seeing parents there.

In 2008 Heritage College was included in the list of Top 200 Schools for HSC Results. Congratulations to the teachers, students and the families of that highly successful group of students. The results were fantastic. In fact, Heritage College was 89th on the list, which is outstanding. We have not performed so well in the 12 years of the school's history. We also congratulate other local independent schools for gaining a position on the list - Newcastle Grammar 38th, Hunter Valley Grammar 65th, Avondale School 149th, St Philip's Christian College Waratah 178th, Central Coast Grammar 182nd. We attach the full list for your interest.

 The 2009 school year is off to a great start. It's fantastic to see so many students return to school with happy smiling faces. Our students are keen to see their friends again and they are keen to face new challenges in the new year levels. We welcome a number of new students in kindergarten and there are also new students in the Primary and High School classes. We hope 2009 is a successful and positive year for the whole school community. May God continue to bless the work of Heritage College.

Two Student Leaders with the Mayor

Last Thursday we had Darren Tappouras and Andrew Dangerfield run a day of activities based on a Bible Focus. This was organised by the SRC and the School Captains. It was a great day. Thanks to everyone involved.