Calderwood News

At a recent assembly, our school captains, Abigail and Oscar, shared their deep hope for CCS and what it means for each of us. It was a powerful call to action for students and staff to help make CCS a place where love and a sense of belonging are commonplace. Their vision is simple yet powerful:

“Our deep hope is that everyone at CCS will experience the 3 G’s – by having a go, being gracious and Godly, and by prioritising personal and community growth; a community united in love, where everyone belongs.”

Oscar reminded us that these values aren’t just words – they have purpose. He challenged us to think about the “why” behind them: Why should I have a go? Why be gracious and Godly? Why prioritise growth? The answer lies in love.

Sometimes doing the right thing isn’t easy or convenient, but we do these things because we care for others. Oscar encouraged students to follow Jesus’ example: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life,” it says in John 8:12.

The captains went on to explain, “Having a go means taking initiative and getting involved in school activities, even when it feels daunting. Being gracious and Godly means supporting friends, showing kindness, and building a community where everyone feels they belong. Prioritising growth means growing in faith and understanding of God, and becoming people who love one another as Jesus commanded in John 13:34–35: ‘Love one another as I have loved you.’”

As we celebrate the season of hope and reflect on the light Christ brings, we’re reminded that His love calls us to action. The deep hope shared by Oscar and Abi isn’t just a vision – it’s an invitation for each of us to help make CCS a community where love and belonging are common. By having a go, being gracious and Godly, and pursuing growth, we can live out Jesus’ command to love one another.

Mr Darren Hutton
Principal

The program is run by Bible Society Australia in partnership with Mission Educate, teaching reading, numeracy, and practical life skills like nutrition and horticulture, bringing hope to communities where education is scarce.

Mozambique is one of the world’s poorest nations, with over 50% living below the poverty line. Through 20 community groups, the project currently helps 650 participants gain essential skills and understand God’s word.

Well done to our riders – Mrs Newing, Mr Dylan Bryant, Xavier Aikman, Isaac Osmond, and ICE Board Member Mr Lachlan Bryant, as well as Mrs and Mr Storey on the support crew!

To learn more about Bike for Bibles, visit biblesociety.org.au.

The occasion began with our Year 6 Celebration Assembly – a special time to reflect on the students’ Junior School years and acknowledge their achievements.

Families and friends joined us in the school hall to celebrate the milestone as our students prepare to begin Secondary School next year.

Later that evening, the festivities continued at the Shellharbour Civic Centre, where students, staff, and families gathered for a joy-filled event.

As students arrived dressed for the occasion – ready to dance, enjoy delicious cake, and share fellowship with one another – it was a fitting conclusion to their Junior School experience and a night full of laughter and gratitude.

Our Year 6 students have been wonderful ambassadors for Calderwood Christian School. As they step into this next chapter, we pray that God will continue to grow and guide them in his image in the years ahead.

Evie Brown and Louis Hill

Aaron Hutchins and Kianah Joyce

Ellie Smith (Macquarie Sharks), Beniah Emani (Marshall Eagles), and Indiana McLaren (Murray Dragons)

Congratulations once again to these students! We look forward to their leadership of our Junior School in 2026.

In addition, there were 24 Band 5 results, highlighting strong performances across all subjects. School exam marks exceeded state averages in Biology, Food Technology, Industrial Technology (Multimedia), Music 1, and PDHPE.

Collectively, ATAR results were strong, with many students achieving above 80.

Congratulations, Year 12! As you step into 2026, we pray you continue to hold fast to the life-changing truths about Jesus that you have learned during your time at Calderwood

It was a great chance for the year group to gather once again after completing the HSC as they reflected on their time at Calderwood.

Recognises a student who shows exceptional effort and commitment to learning, contributes positively to the school’s learning culture, and uses their God-given gifts to inspire and serve others.

2025 Junior School Recipient: Evie Hale
2025 Secondary School Recipient: Marley Power

Celebrates a student who demonstrates resilience and determination, never gives up on tasks or people, and consistently strives for excellence despite challenges.

2025 Junior School Recipient: Annabel Farrington

Honours a student who is loyal to friends, steadfast in commitments, and lives out a strong, enduring faith in God—serving as a trustworthy and dependable follower of Christ.

2025 Junior School Recipient: Timothy Morrison

Awarded to a student without a formal leadership role who exemplifies Christ-like leadership, collaborates meaningfully, and positively influences peers.

2025 Secondary School Recipient: Amarli O'Brien

Recognises a student who demonstrates creativity, tenacity, and craftsmanship in planning, designing, and creating a product that serves others.

2025 Secondary School Recipient: Sophie Kulakoff

Honours a student who demonstrates outstanding artistic skill, commitment to rehearsals, and passion for the performing arts, inspiring others through creativity and service.

2025 Secondary School Recipient: Elisha Almarinez