Week 6, Term 3 | 29 August 2025

When we think of school, our minds often jump straight to reading, writing and mathematics. These are essential foundations—but they are not the whole picture.

Increasingly, education experts are reminding us that creativity is just as important. For boys, who often learn best when they are active, hands-on and imaginative, the creative arts are especially powerful.

Sir Ken Robinson, a leading voice in education, believed that creativity should sit at the heart of learning. He famously said, “Creativity is as important as literacy, and we should treat it with the same status.”

The creative arts have a profound and well-documented impact on brain development throughout all stages of life. This field of study, known as ‘neuroaesthetics’, uses brain imaging and other tools to understand how engaging with art shapes our brains and our behaviour. The benefits are not just "nice to have," but are increasingly seen as essential for overall learning and wellbeing.

For boys, creativity provides an outlet to express ideas and emotions in ways that go beyond words. A boy who struggles to explain his feelings might find release through painting, music, or performance. Another might discover his strengths by building, designing or experimenting. When creativity is valued, boys can see themselves as capable learners in more than one dimension—not just through test results.

Some of the key benefits of creative arts on brain development include:

1. Cognitive Development and Executive Functions - Creative arts are a powerful stimulus for cognitive development, engaging multiple brain regions simultaneously. They contribute to improved problem-solving and critical thinking; enhanced memory; and improved executive functions.

2. Motor Skills and Neural Connections - The intricate nature of creative arts helps develop both fine and gross motor skills, as well as the connections between different brain regions.

3. Emotional and Social Development - Creative arts provide a safe and effective outlet for emotional expression and can significantly enhance emotional intelligence, with positive impacts on emotional regulation and expression; fostering empathy and social skills; and building self-esteem and confidence: The process of creating something and seeing it to completion gives a sense of accomplishment and pride. This positive reinforcement encourages a person to take on new challenges and believe in their abilities.

4. Other significant benefits include - stress reduction; mindfulness and flow state; and enhanced language skills.

‘When we place creativity alongside academic achievement, we give boys the chance to shine in new ways, building their self-esteem and willingness to tackle challenges in other areas’.

Sir Ken Robinson reminded us that “Creativity is the process of having original ideas that have value.” When schools nurture creativity, they don’t just help boys make art—they help boys build confidence, discover passions, and develop the flexible, resilient thinking they will need for the future.

By valuing creativity in boys’ education, we are not only preparing them for success at school but also equipping them for life in a world that prizes innovation, collaboration, critical thinking, and original thought.

Peter Grimes | Headmaster

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It may seem hard to believe but there is a new movement of people coming back to the Christian faith. The narrative in the media tends to be negative and that the church is dead. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Of course, some people are still leaving the church for a variety of reasons but as Mark McCrindle of McCrindle Research says, “In a culture often perceived as post-Christian, it’s significant that hundreds of thousands of Australians are turning towards Christianity, even while others turn away from it,”. * McCrindle Research

It is interesting that the strongest movement back to a genuine experience of the Christian faith, including church attendance is among young people aged (25-40 y/o) and the over 55’s.

Anecdotally church leaders confirm that many people turning up to church for the first time in a long time are searching for meaning, purpose and peace. The current world situation has left many feeling bewildered and in need of some hope beyond the material.

People are in need of a place of quite contemplation as well as a place to celebrate the good things in life. Many churches offer both.

In commenting on the trend amongst young people McCrindle said, "Particularly for younger Australians, identifying as Christian today is a meaningful decision that typically leads to active church involvement.” *

If you haven’t been to a Sunday church service in a while maybe it's time to take a look, you might be surprised. There are many churches on the lower north shore with varying times and styles of worship. There is sure to be one just right for you.

Mosman Village Church has three services each Sunday: If you prefer a more formal service 8:00am Holy Communion might be just the thing; 10:00am is our contemporary family service with a children’s and youth program; then for a small but friendly contemporary service you could try our 5:30pm service.

Jesus said, ‘Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest…. Rest for your souls.’ Matthew 11.28

God willing, I will see you at one of our services in the near future.

Rev. Michael Crichton | Mosman Village Church

For those who missed the last Empowering Parents webinar by Dr Justin Coulson, "Anxious - Helping Your Child Navigate a World of Worry," please see the link below:

Click on this link. 

Skye Adams | School Counsellor
sadams@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au

The North Shore Bear Pit Public Speaking Competition is an annual competition where finalists from local schools present their speeches in the “Bear Pit” and meet their local member. The NSW Legislative Assembly is nicknamed the “Bear Pit” because of the heated debates and discussions which take place there when parliament is sitting.

Each year, hosted by Member for North Shore Felicity Wilson, the competition aims to promote the public speaking skills of students in Years 3 to 6, as well as develop effective listening skills and encourage confidence. 

A selection of boys progressed from a class competition through to the stage competition. Ultimately Edward Wang 5S and Christian Venn 4D were chosen to present at NSW Parliament House, an incredible achievement and an honour in itself. 

Both boys delivered an outstanding job. Well done to all the Stage 2 and Stage 3 boys for their involvement in the competition.

Peter Grimes | Headmaster

On Thursday afternoon, Year 2 students from Mosman Prep and Queenwood gathered at Sirius Cove, eager to participate in a beach clean up.

The boys and girls worked together in pairs, collecting rubbish and then sorting it into the correct bins. Students were surprised by the amount of litter they found.

This experience not only enabled students to make a difference to their local environment but also fostered the spirit of collaboration between the two schools. It was a rewarding and enjoyable afternoon for everyone involved.

Kath Gresson | Year 2 Teacher & Sustainability Coordinator

The IPSHA Virtual Art Show has been launched providing a single platform to celebrate and showcase artistic achievements, and allows us to celebrate and be inspired by the boundless creativity of our students throughout NSW and ACT. This virtual gallery is not just a display of art, it is a testament to the creativity and dedication of our students (and teachers). The virtual slideshow tour offers an immersive experience that connects us with the artists' visions.

Well done and congratulations to the students selected. We are proud of your outstanding creative contributions. The artwork can be viewed via the link below:

LINK - IPSHA Virtual Art Show
Password: IPSHAart2025

Artwork Selected for IPSHA Virtual Art Show is a wonderful opportunity for the following students to showcase their talent.

Early Entry - Edward Lundy and Ajay Vairavan 
Kindy - Roman Duncan
Year 1 - Orlando Lai
Year 2 - Albert Vanneck
Year 3 - Nicky Moore and Charlie Love 
Year 4 - Ronan Connellan; Eric Sun
Year 5 - Lachlan Varker Miles; Jayden Tian
Year 6 - Lewis Barrett

Xina Crowther | Visual Arts

Imagine not having access to equipment that will allow you to play your favourite sports. This is a reality for many Indigenous children who live in remote communities and as sport lovers, we know this would be devastating. We, Barnaby Rosso and Hugo Donnan, are raising money for a charity called ONELand, which provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in remote communities with sporting equipment.

On Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, we will be running a Father’s Day gift stall to raise money for ONELand. The stall will be located outside the NAB Bank on Military Road from 7:00am on both days. 

At the stall, we will be selling unique Aboriginal designed gifts and raffle tickets, with all proceeds going to ONELand. Make sure you get there early to buy a gift for dad before we sell out. Both cash and card payments will be available.

Stay tuned for our next fundraising event, which will be advertised in next week's Messenger.

Barnaby Rosso and Hugo Donnan | Year 4

We would like to inform you about our upcoming Make-Up Photo Day for student portraits and the Year 6 Graduation Photo on Tuesday 9 September.

Make-Up Portrait Photos (Individual Portraits Only):

If your son missed his individual portrait photo on the main photo day, he will have the opportunity to get it taken during these times:

• 8:00-8:20am - Parents can bring their sons directly to the Small Hall.
• 8:20-8:45am - Teachers will escort students to the Small Hall.

Important Note for Year 4 Students:

Year 4 students will be heading to Terrey Hills on this day. If your Year 4 son requires a make-up portrait photo, please ensure he goes directly to the Small Hall before school starts. He should have his photo taken in full school uniform and can then change into his sports gear for the Terrey Hills trip afterwards.

Year 6 Graduation Photo:

The Year 6 Graduation Photo will be taken promptly at 8:45am in the Small Hall.

Please ensure your son is aware of these arrangements if he is participating. 

Thank you for your cooperation.

Brendan Frost | Deputy of School Operations and Student Opportunities

Travel Arrangements & Forgotten Items

As previously communicated, at Mosman Prep, we are incredibly proud of the wide range of opportunities available to our boys, from academic enrichment to co-curricular activities. With such a busy and dynamic school environment, we kindly ask for your support in two key areas to help things run smoothly:

1. Clear and Early Communication of Travel Arrangements

With so much happening each day, late changes to travel arrangements can be challenging for both teaching and office staff. While we always do our best to pass on messages, we cannot guarantee that late changes will reach your son in time. We ask for your support in ensuring that your son knows his afternoon travel plans before he leaves home each morning.

• Any changes to regular travel arrangements must be emailed to school@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au by 12:00pm.
• For emergencies or urgent changes after 12:00pm, please call the school office on 9968 4044.

Of course, we understand that exceptional circumstances and emergencies do arise, and we will always be here to assist. However, keeping last-minute changes to a minimum allows us to ensure all boys are where they need to be at the end of the day.

2. Encouraging Responsibility – Forgotten Items

One of the most valuable skills we can teach our boys is organisation and personal responsibility. We strongly encourage students to pack their bags the night before and check that they have everything they need for the day ahead.

We ask parents to avoid bringing forgotten items to school, including:

• Homework
• Hats
• Water bottles
• iPads
• PE uniforms
• Even lunch boxes!

If a student forgets their lunch, we have a recess and lunch slip system to ensure they are looked after. Our goal is not to penalise students but rather to guide them in developing independence and responsibility. Even when mistakes happen, these are valuable learning moments that help build resilience.

In specific situations, we do understand that some events may require special arrangements. If a student forgets essential items for a one-off event, such as swimmers for a swimming carnival, or a musical instrument required for a music concert, then parents may contact the school office and deliver items.

We greatly appreciate your cooperation and support in these areas. By working together, we can continue to foster independence in our boys and ensure that school operations run as smoothly as possible.

Thank you for your understanding.

Mr Brendan Frost | Deputy Headmaster of Student Opportunities and School Operations

Chatswood Coach is open for Term 3 bookings via the school website and can be made at School Transport | Private Coaches | Mosman Preparatory School

Additional Stop on Chatswood Coach Route
The new stop has been added at Miller St (opp. Abbott St) Cammeray. Please see the link below:2025 School Coach Bookings - Chatswood Route

As part of our commitment to student safety and well-being, Mosman Prep adheres to the Child Safe Standards set by the Office of the Children's Guardian. To comply with these standards, all parent volunteers wishing to assist with the Canteen, Terrey Hills, or Excursions must complete the attached Volunteer Information Form.

The form requests the following details:

• Working With Children Check (WWC) number: For verification purposes only.
• Date of Birth (DOB): Required for WWC verification.

Please note:

The form includes references to relevant Mosman Prep policies, accessible on our website.

How to submit the form:

• Email address to send the completed form to volunteer@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au

Thank you for your time and cooperation in ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all our students.

Julie Shortland | EA to the Headmaster

The annual 1sts Rugby game between Mosman Prep and Pittwater House was held this past Monday at our Terrey Hills Campus. This yearly showdown is more than just a game; it's a long-standing tradition dating back to 1965, with both schools battling for the coveted Pittwater-Mosman Shield in both rugby and cricket.

In a spirited and well-fought match, our Mosman Prep team, coached by Mr Johnston, showcased their skill and determination. The boys delivered a fantastic performance, ultimately defeating Pittwater House with a final score of 38-12 and successfully retaining the rugby shield. The victory is a testament to the hard work, teamwork, and sportsmanship of our players.

A huge thank you to all the parents, staff, and students who came out to support the team. The sideline was buzzing with energy, and your cheers made a big difference! We're incredibly proud of our team and their outstanding effort.

MCEPS 1sts Rugby Team v Pittwater House

Team: Sebastian Calvet, Tom Flitcroft, Remy Hennessy, Angus McGuire, Kirav Raman, Henry Ridhalgh, Sebastian Rothwell, Theo Sheridan, Louis Timmins, Aksel Sprange, Louis Stabback, Aidan Wong, Eason Wu, Luke Yates. Coach: Mr Johnston.

Steve Riddett | Director of Sport

Congratulations to our boys who represented MCEPS at the IPSHA Athletics Carnival. All the boys performed admirably against the best athletes from a multitude of other schools, many winning place ribbons for their events. The boys demonstrated excellent ability, camaraderie and sportsmanship at the carnival.

IPSHA Athletics Carnival- Wednesday 27 August

Year 2: Sebastian Perry
Year 3: Hunter Letchford, Max Cameron, Jack Barrett
Year 4: Ryan Chen, Rupert Bateman, Thomas Robertson, Oscar Colwell, Hugo Barnes
Year 5: Luke Yates, Lachlan Varker-Miles, Zac Sherlock, Edward Wicks
Year 6: Theo Sheridan, Remy Hennessy, Valerio Iacovelli, Angus McGuire, George Sun, Kirav Raman, Matthew Thomas

Finally, many thanks to Mr Riddett and Mr Johnston for again managing the team on the day and also to all the parents who have come to support the boys at the respective carnivals this season.

Peter Grimes | Headmaster

This term, we will be offering our Year 5/6 boys an opportunity to take part in some AFL training sessions at Middle Head Oval. If possible, we also hope to organise a mid-week game or two against other schools later in the term. Training will take place at Middle Head Oval on Tuesday afternoons from 3:30-4:30pm, commencing in Week 5. 

AFL Training Dates (3:30-4:30pm at Middle Head Oval)

•  Tuesday 26 August (Week 6)
• Tuesday 2 September (Week 7)
• Tuesday 9 September (Week 8)
• Tuesday 23 September (Week 10)

Boys will be transported at the end of the day to training by School bus. Parents will need to collect boys from Middle Head Oval by 4:30pm. There will be no bus back to School at the conclusion of training. Boys taking part will need to come along to training dressed in their PE uniform (navy blue polo), winter sports socks, boots and mouthguard. The School tracksuit should be worn for warmth.

Steve Riddett | Director of Sport 

Saturdays: On Saturdays the MCEPS Information Line will be updated between 6:30 and 7:00am. This number has the most up-to-date information the School can provide regarding matters of sport and excursions. Parents are to call this number and not the School Office. After heavy rain, Mosman Council often closes its grounds, so please check with this number for all school sport and excursion cancellations.

Weekdays: In case of inclement weather, please ring the Prep Information Line, which will be updated from 1:00pm. Ovals might be closed by Mosman Council on fine days, if the preceding days have been wet. It is therefore advised that parents should ring the School’s Information Line on training days if there has been recent rain. 

PLEASE NOTE:  if the message has not been updated, Sport is ON as scheduled.

Steve Riddett | Director of Sport

Dear Parents 

Canteen Volunteer Opportunity: Daily volunteers are essential to the School maintaining a cost-effective and smooth-running canteen service. As a parent volunteer, you'll work alongside canteen staff and serve the boys during busy recess periods, 10:20-11:20am. No kitchen or cooking experience required. Use this link to sign up for a 1-hour shift any day(s) during school term. Any questions about canteen volunteering, contact Jeff Brown @ 0400 410 737. 

As a matter of compliance, school volunteers must complete the Volunteer Form below, and have a current NSW Working with Children Check (WWCC). Send completed forms to volunteer@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au

LINK - Volunteer Signup Form

Jeff Brown | P&F Committee, Canteen

Mosman Prep prides itself on its service to community, guided by our motto, Non Nobis Solum – Not for Ourselves Alone. In this spirit, in 2024 in partnership with the P&F, a school community initiative called ‘Meals with Love’ was launched.

This service provides home cooked evening meals for Mosman Prep families in times of need. All meals are cooked by parent and teacher volunteers and are available for as many evenings as required. This service is anonymous, so meals cooked by volunteers will be delivered to the office for collection by the family as coordinated by the School. 

If your family has a need for this service, please contact Julie Shortland at the School Office at ea@mosmanprep.nsw.edu.au.

If you are also interested in being a volunteer and cooking the occasional meal for a family in need, please contact our new Meals with Love Coordinator, Georgina Ridhalgh at gridhalgh@hlbnsw.com.au. 

I'd like to thank Georgina for taking up the Coordinator role and also all the wonderful volunteers who have cooked meals this year. It has been a pleasure to create this service for the Mosman Prep community and have it continue.

Meals with Love Coordinator

For the schedule of school events, please refer to the online calendar, which can be found HERE.