Welcome to 2026: A Harmony of Growth and New Beginnings
It is with immense joy and a high-spirited "hello" that I welcome our students, families and staff to the 2026 school year. The hallways of Richard Gill School are once again filled with the vibrant energy that only a new year can bring. We have hit the ground running, and I am thrilled to share the wonderful developments that have taken place over the summer holidays.
Enhancing Our Campus: The New Bus Turning Bay
We are delighted to announce significant progress on our new bus turning bay. Throughout the holidays, our contractors worked tirelessly—excavating, filling, tarring and leveling—to create a functional and streamlined access point for our school. This project was made possible through a NSW Government Safe Bus Access grant. We’ve seen fresh turf laid this week and permanent fencing is scheduled for completion in early February. Once these final touches are in place, we look forward to beginning to use our new Bus Turning Bay. Ensuring the safety of our students is our highest priority, and we are incredibly grateful for the support that has allowed us to make this vital upgrade.
Art with a Purpose: Our New Water Tank Mural
Our landscape has also received a beautiful creative touch. We were fortunate to host artist John Robinson, who transformed our water tank into a stunning mural centered on water conservation and the vital importance of water to all forms of life. Funded by a 2025 Sustainable Education Grant, this project is more than just paint on a tank; it was truly profound to watch John share the story of his artwork and demonstrate his deep, personal connection to Country. We are excited to promote the message of sustainability alongside our beautiful school garden.
A Vibrant Start to Learning
The return to the classroom has been nothing short of wonderful. Our new Kindergarten cohort was greeted with open arms by our older students, and the sounds of laughter and play are once again the soundtrack to our playground. Our 2026 class structure is as follows:
Kindergarten: Mrs. Smika
Years 1/2: Mr. Sargent
Years 3/4: Miss Kelly
Years 5/6: Ms. Ellis
Our signature music programs are also tuning up! Junior and Senior Choir will begin in Week 2 with the amazing Mrs. Vaughan. This year, Year 1/2 will embark on piano with Miss McMorrow, while Year 3/4 will master the violin and cello with Ms. Ellis and Mrs. Kershaw. Our Year 5/6 students are venturing into new territory, exploring a range of brass and woodwind instruments led by expert educators from the Hunter Regional Conservatorium.
A Personal Milestone
On a personal note, 2026 is a landmark year for me as I step into the dual role of both Principal and Parent at Richard Gill School. Seeing our school through the eyes of my daughter, Ella, has gifted me a fresh perspective and a deepened connection to our parent community.
Sending a child to Kindergarten is a monumental milestone, filled with a unique blend of pride, nerves and excitement. At Richard Gill School, we recognise the gravity of this step and make it our absolute priority to support, nurture and care for your children as they find their feet. We feel privileged to be part of this important chapter in your child’s life story.
Looking Ahead
We have a busy and rewarding term ahead. We are also excited to begin 2027 Expressions of Interest for both Kindergarten and Year 7 so be sure to keep an eye out for more details coming your way.
Here is to a harmonious and successful 2026!
Thank you,
Tara Stanford