Al-Ameen College eNewsletter

From the Principal's Desk

Rana Al-Baghdadi
PRINCIPAL

Celebrating Success, Community Spirit, and Islamic Values

Assalamualaikum Dear School Community,

As we conclude Term 1, we reflect on the numerous events and initiatives that have made these past few months both memorable and enriching. Our school continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of our students, parents, and staff. Here are some highlights from Term 1, along with important reminders and Islamic reflections.

Successful Parent Information Sessions

We kicked off the term with informative Parent Information Sessions, which saw an outstanding turnout. These sessions provided valuable insights into our curriculum, school policies, and the various support systems in place to ensure every student's success. We appreciate your active participation and feedback.

Student Council Oath-Taking Ceremony

Our newly elected Student Council members officially took their oaths this term. This event marked the beginning of their journey as leaders and representatives of the student body. Congratulations to all the council members; we look forward to your innovative ideas and leadership.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

The Parent-Teacher Conferences were a significant success, fostering open communication between parents and teachers. These meetings are vital in understanding and supporting our students' academic and personal development. Thank you to all parents and teachers for your active engagement.

Weekly Merit Awards

Our Weekly Merit Awards have been a highlight, celebrating students' achievements and positive behaviour. These awards recognize the hard work and dedication of our students, motivating them to strive for excellence. Quranic verse, "So whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it" (Quran 99:7). Your efforts are seen and valued.

NAPLAN Tuition and Completion

March saw the successful completion of our NAPLAN tuition sessions, culminating in the assessments. Our students showed great diligence, and we are proud of their efforts. Special thanks to the teachers for their dedicated preparation and support.

Harmony Day Celebration

Harmony Day was a vibrant celebration of our diverse school community. Students and staff showcased their cultural heritage through various activities, promoting inclusivity and respect. It was heartwarming to see everyone come together in such a meaningful way.

RAC BSmart Conference for Year 11-12 Students

Our Year 11 and 12 students attended the RAC BSmart Conference, where they gained valuable insights into road safety and smart driving practices. The conference was an excellent opportunity for our senior students to prepare for responsible driving.

Invictus Solutions- Wellbeing Workshop on Powerful Purpose

The Invictus Wellbeing Workshop focused on helping students discover their purpose and harness their potential. It was an empowering experience, providing students with tools to enhance their mental and emotional well-being.

Year 12 Formal Dinner

The Year 12 Formal Dinner was a night to remember! Our senior students enjoyed an evening of elegance, camaraderie, and celebration. It was a wonderful way to acknowledge their hard work and look forward to the exciting year ahead.

Ramadan Classroom Decorations and Daily Bazaar

During Ramadan, our classrooms were beautifully decorated to celebrate the spirit of the month. Additionally, the Daily Ramadan Bazaar after school was a hit, offering a variety of treats and fostering a sense of community among students and parents. This sacred month reminds us of the importance of community, charity, and self-discipline.

Community Iftar Event

A highlight of our Ramadan activities was the Family Iftar Event, where over 2,000 community members and students gathered to break the fast together. It was a beautiful evening filled with unity and spirituality, reinforcing the values of togetherness and gratitude.

HeadSpace Workshops

HeadSpace conducted workshops focused on mental health and well-being. These sessions provided students with practical strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and support each other.

Dr. Aminah Mah’s 1-2-3 Wellbeing Workshops

Dr. Aminah Mah conducted her renowned 1-2-3 Wellbeing Workshops for students from Year 3 to Year 12. These workshops equipped students with essential skills to enhance their overall well-being and navigate life's challenges with confidence.

Important Reminders

Student Arrival: Students are expected to arrive at school by 8:20 am. The assembly begins promptly at 8:25 am, and classes commence at 8:30 am.

Parking and Road Safety: As we continue to ensure the safety of our school community, we kindly remind all parents to adhere to parking and road safety rules.

As we move into Term 2, we are excited about the upcoming events and continuing to build on this term's successes. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making Term 1 so remarkable. Your support and involvement are the bedrock of our vibrant school community.

Assistant Principal - Teaching and Learning

As we wrap up an exciting term 1, I would like to reflect on some of the achievements and highlights. Throughout this term, our school community has been engaged in various events such as parent information sessions, NAPLAN assessments, and merit award ceremonies.

Parent information sessions
Information sessions for parents were held during the first week of term 1 for students in Year 7 through Year 12. These sessions included an analysis of previous term’s results, providing valuable insights into students’ academic progress and achievements. Additionally, school policies were reviewed to ensure clarity on school expectations. Year 10 students received guidance on subject selection prerequisites, enabling them to work towards meeting these requirements by the end of semester one. Parents were given an overview of the Year 10 subject selection process. For year 11 and 12 students, parent information session was focused on WACE requirements. Students struggling in specific subjects were advised on selecting subjects that would support their WACE goals. Furthermore, a TISC information session was conducted to assist with university admission procedures.

Parent teacher conference
Parent teacher conference was conducted on the 8^th of March, which provide opportunities for parents to meet with their child's teachers to discuss academic progress, areas of improvement, and strategies for further development. Teachers often share insights into students' strengths and weaknesses, offering valuable feedback on their performance and behaviour in the classroom. These sessions created a supportive environment where both parents and teachers can work together to enhance the educational experience and ensure the holistic growth of the student.

Merit award assemblies
Merit awards based on altruism and powerful purpose recognize and celebrate students who demonstrate exceptional dedication to serving others and contributing positively to their communities. These awards presented during Thursday assemblies, inspired other students to engage in acts of kindness and service, fostering a culture of compassion and social responsibility within the school community.

NAPLAN Numeracy and Literacy assessments
During term 1, our Year 7 and 9 students have completed the NAPLAN assessment. Coordinated practice sessions were also organised to familiarise students with the NAPLAN platform. I appreciate students for their mature and settled approach to the NAPLAN assessment and looking forward to receiving their assessment results soon.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our incredible staff and dedicated parents for their unwavering support throughout this term. Your commitment and collaboration have been the cornerstone of our school's success. Let us continue to work together to foster an environment where each student can achieve their fullest potential.

Dr Fincy Patrick
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: Teaching and learning - High school

Assistant Principal -Wellbeing & Pastoral Care

As we embark upon the new academic year, Al-Ameen College reaffirms its dedication to student welfare and overall growth. In 2024, the Wellbeing Department proudly introduces three new additions to our team: a Female Wellbeing Coordinator, a Male Wellbeing Coordinator, and a Wellbeing Assistant. With their arrival, we anticipate a bolstering in our school community through their specialised skills and passionate commitment. Together, they will cultivate a nurturing atmosphere, catering to our students' varied needs and nurturing their wellbeing and academic advancement.

We foster academic growth and create a supportive and engaged school community. The Wellbeing Department has been involved in:

Carrying out new student orientations, introducing the school’s campus, structure, policies, expectations, support services, and assigning buddies to new students
Providing home rooms with assigned duty teachers for our graduating class of Year 12’s
Supervising the class allocation process to ensure student wellbeing.
Introducing wellbeing journals and workbooks for high school students
Collaborating with our Parents and Friends Committee to distribute $6 virtuous commendation vouchers to recognise students with exemplary behaviour and academic accomplishment
Hosting the student council oath ceremony for Year 4 – 12 candidates
Carrying out primary prefect elections for year 6 students
Organising food trucks and collaborating with event organisers for Yasmin Mogahed's 'The Bleeding Heart' lecture
Organising different workshops:
- Goal Planning Workshop (Year 11 - 12)
  - Help students identify their aspirations and intentions, set achievable objectives, and map a path toward their future endeavours.
- Invictus Solutions Workshops (Year 7 – 12)
  - Provide valuable tools and strategies for personal and academic growth, covering the following topics: Peer Pressure and Influence, Discipline & Grit, and Powerful Purpose.

At Al-Ameen College, we believe in nurturing students to become tomorrow's leaders, destined to enact positive change, Insha Allah. We prioritise fostering their potential, instilling courage, confidence, resilience, and akhlaq, and inspiring them to lead lives imbued with ihsan.

Alongside this commitment, we stand as a pillar of support for our school community, extending heartfelt wishes for a blessed Ramadan to all. May Allah accept our efforts and safeguard us, Ameen.

Yours sincerely,

Manal Jneid
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: WELLBEING & PASTORAL CARE

Assistant Principal -Religious Studies

As Term One draws to a close, let's take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've shared together at al-Ameen College this 2024 academic year. Through every challenge and triumph, we've grown stronger, wiser, and closer as a community. May your hearts always be filled with the beauty and guidance of the Holy Book.

Let us celebrate the devotion and dedication shown by our students and former students leading our Taraweeh prayers during this blessed month of Ramadan. Their steadfastness in maintaining this spiritual practice, especially in the face of the challenges of their workload, is a testament to their perseverance. May the peace and serenity found in our prayer continue to illuminate our paths long after Ramadan has passed.

In addition to our spiritual endeavours, I commend each and every one of you who have completed your Islamic Studies examinations. Your commitment to deepening your understanding of Islam and its teachings is commendable. Remember, knowledge is the key to enlightenment, and your pursuit of it not only enriches your own lives but also empowers you to be ambassadors of peace, compassion, and understanding in our ever-changing world.

Lastly, I am thrilled to announce the establishment of our new Quran Memorization program. This initiative marks a significant milestone in our journey towards fostering a deeper connection with the Quran. Together, let us embrace this opportunity to immerse ourselves in the divine words of Allah and strive towards excellence in our memorization efforts.

As we bid farewell to this term, let us carry forward the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the achievements celebrated. Remember, each day is a new beginning, filled with endless possibilities and opportunities for growth. So, let us face the future terms with optimism, determination, and a steadfast commitment to our faith and values. It is not too late to recover from a grade that we are not happy with or a subject we need to improve in.

May Allah bless each and every one of you abundantly, guide you on the straight path, and grant you success in this world and the Hereafter. Ramadan Mubarak, Eid Mubarak in advance, and may your spirits be lifted with the joy of accomplishment and the blessings of faith. Here's to a bright future filled with hope, unity, and endless possibilities. Congratulations once again, and may your hearts always be filled with the light of faith.

Sheikh Yahya Ibrahim
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Primary School - Coordinator

Assalamu Alaykum warahmatullahi wbrktu

Dear Parents and Guardians

Alhamdullilah, by the grace of Allah SWT, we have reached the end of a very busy and productive term. The end of the first term’s newsletter includes various activities and updates as a summary for the school community.

NAPLAN preparation and completion:
NAPLAN [National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy] preparations went well under way prior to the sitting of the NAPLAN Assessments. We thank the parents who have sent their children to attend the Saturday revision classes. Students also were actively engaged on the EXCEL ZONE platform completing NAPLAN activities online. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the year 3 teachers, Mrs Rina and Mrs Azra including the year 5 teachers , Mrs Zana and Miss Teodora for conducting the Saturday NAPLAN classes.

The attendance rate for sitting the NAPLAN Testing period was overwhelming and only three students were absent from the NAPLAN Domain tests. Catch-up tests also proceeded smoothly.

The NAPLAN assessments were conducted for the first time on laptops successfully managed by our IT team, Mr Joel and Mr Mahesh, in the year 3 and one year 5 classrooms.

Interim Reports for Literacy and Numeracy:
Schools typically issue interim reports to update parents on their child’s progress in key areas such as Literacy and Numeracy. These reports highlight strengths and areas for improvement. By now parents must have received the Interim report on SEQTA. Kindly commend your children’s efforts together to encourage them on further improvement if needed.

Ramadan classroom displays:
With Ramadan commencement in the beginning of term, the classrooms were hard at work with their teachers to create beautiful classroom displays to raise awareness and significance of Ramadan, Islamic traditions and cultural practices associated with this Holy month. The classroom decorations around the school created a feel of alley ways in Muslim countries décor .I thank the teachers for putting in great effort to show case the displays in their classrooms and even creating the ambience outside . The students took great pride in making the colourful 3D displays.

Harmony Day celebrations:
Harmony Day was celebrated on a Friday end of week 8 at our school. The children were all dressed in their cultural attire which showcased our multicultural school community of diversity and inclusivity. The sense of belonging was promoted in our classrooms and assemblies to demonstrate inclusiveness and respect for everyone.

Walker Learning in Kindy and Pre-Primary:
The early childhood teachers have reported that the pedagogy of the Walker Learning approach has now been implemented for the term. The children are experiencing engaging and intentional environments linking Literacy, Numeracy and other subject areas to investigations. The goal of the Walker Learning Pedagogy is to create opportunities for children to be engaged and develop skills for life. Therefore, the priority of investigation is to attain skill acquisition.

Prefects’ year 6 students:
In the school setting described, Year 6 students prefects play a crucial role in assisting with the management of certain duties and serving as leaders among their peers.

I congratulate the prefects selected and they are considered as our junior members who are entrusted with important duties such as showing visitors around, helping at new parent orientations and directing student movement during break times.

Finally, I hereby would like to thank the Primary school staff for their wonderful work and effort throughout.

Have a well-deserved break and an Eid Mubarak.

Shaamillah Davis

Head of Primary

Mrs Shaamillah Davis
Primary School Coordinator

Aminah Mah

Excited to start at Kindergarten

Sitti Zakaria
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

Carly Rusdu
HEAD OF PRIMARY - EARLY CHILDHOOD
ECE Line Leader/Primary School Teacher

Pre-Primary - What a Great Start

Nancy Boyer
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

Carly Rusdu
HEAD OF PRIMARY - EARLY CHILDHOOD
ECE Line Leader/Primary School Teacher

Year 1

Heba Elsayadi
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

Charlotte Rodricks
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

Ikram Ali
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER
Lower Primary Line Lead

Khadijah Zainy
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER
HEAD OF PRIMARY YEARS 1-2

Year 2 - Journey of learning & discovery

Khadijah Zainy
HEAD OF PRIMARY - PRIMARY TEACHER
Year 2

Year 3 - Busy Busy Bees !!

Rina Rahmawati
HEAD OF PRIMARY - PRIMARY TEACHER
Year 3

Year 4 - Learning about life cycles !!

Salma Arab
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER
Year 4

Rina Rahmawati
HEAD OF PRIMARY - PRIMARY TEACHER
Year 3

Year 5 - Collaborating Together

Adriana Debowski
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER
Year 5

Teodora Jankovic
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER
Year 5

Zana Hassan
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

Angela O’brien
HEAD OF PRIMARY YEARS 5-6

Year 6 - Building Dreams !

Gillian Rankin
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER
Year 6

Niall McCloskey
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER
Year 6

Angela O'Brien
HEAD OF YEARS 5 & 6
YEAR 6B TEACHER

PE - So much to come !!!

Shady Fouda
STUDENT WELLBEING OFFICER - SECONDARY BOYS
HOLA

Year 7 Drama

Anees Fatima
HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER
Health, Drama

Kholoud Swayd
HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER
HOLA

Year 7 TAG HASS

The TAG HASS class has been exciting. This term, 7G has been studying history and we have been focusing on Ancient China and discovering what life was like during these times. We learned about the dynasties, daily life, hierarchy, rulers, religions, warfare, and important people at the time of ancient China.

Along with what we are learning we accomplished many fun activities, like our engaging dynasty group poster project and the captivating terracotta soldier sculpture activity. In this latter activity each member of year 7G was provided with the opportunity to craft their own terracotta soldier using air-dry clay—a task that proved both challenging and rewarding as we honed our sculpting skills and sought to capture the essence of these historical figures.

Overall, the HASS this term has been challenging and enjoyable. We look forward to the next term inshallah.

By Arina Djohann & Qaireen Azizul, 7G

Priyanka Don
HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER
Head of Learning Area: Humanities and Social Sciences