We are delighted to welcome Lauren Huxley and Simone Gibson , along with their mother Christine , as guest speakers at our upcoming Mother’s Day Lunch. We are especially proud to share that Simone is one of our valued Tara mums. Together, they will share Lauren’s powerful journey of survival, recovery and finding her voice after experiencing violence. Their story is both moving and inspiring, offering a message of hope, resilience and the strength found in family.

This special event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the incredible Tara mums in our community. Guests will enjoy a delicious lunch while connecting with other parents in a warm and welcoming setting. We encourage year groups to come together and create tables to share in this meaningful occasion.

Event details and booking information can be found below. Please note that places are limited and bookings will close on Thursday, 30 April. We look forward to sharing this special celebration with you.

Book Now: https://www.trybooking.com/DKHNS

We are delighted to introduce the exceptional alumnae joining us for Beyond the Gates 2026:

Sunara Stacey (McKeown) – Class of 1988
Executive Manager, Commonwealth Bank

Penny Maber (Sinden) – Class of 2008
Senior Executive Officer, Royal Australasian College of Physicians

Leah Park – Class of 2016
Royal Air Force Legal Officer

Louise Nicotra (Ellis) – Class of 1994
Associate Professor, Macquarie University

These inspiring women bring a wealth of experience across a diverse range of industries and will share their unique journeys, insights and advice during an engaging panel discussion.

Students in Years 7–12 and their parents are warmly encouraged to attend this special evening. Beginning with the panel discussion in the Chapel, the event will be followed by the opportunity to connect directly with our alumnae in small-group conversations, gaining valuable insights into career pathways and life beyond School.

This is a highly valuable experience that can help guide subject choices, broaden perspectives and inspire future aspirations. We strongly encourage families to attend, as the conversations and connections made on the night can have a lasting impact on your daughter’s future.

For full speaker profiles, please click here: https://connect.tara.nsw.edu.au/homepage/1040

Bookings are essential and close Friday, 24 April.

We look forward to welcoming you to this inspiring and informative evening.

Book Now: https://www.trybooking.com/DKLLM

Tara Students - Get ready for a night of music, dancing, and unforgettable moments as we roll out the red carpet and celebrate together!

This year’s theme is Lights, Camera, Action ! Bring your energy, your friends, and your best movie-star vibes as we transform the night into a celebration full of lights, laughter and incredible performances.

Please ensure you indicate any food requirements when purchasing your ticket.

Please note below the start and finish times on the night.

Tara Senior School Hall

Drop off and pick up from the Tara Chapel

5:30pm to 7:30pm

Book Here https://www.trybooking.com/DJZUE

Tara Gymnasium

Drop off and pick up from the Tara Chapel

Years 3 to 6 - 5:30pm to 7:45pm
Years 7 to 12 - 5:30pm to 8:30pm

Book Here https://www.trybooking.com/DJZUT

Neve and Charlotte - Christian Faith Leaders

Our Elizabeth Medalist Lottie E invited Neve and Charlotte to share a message for Easter.

Neve:

When we think about Easter, I am sure the egg hunts, chocolates, and bunnies come to mind. Although these traditions bring excitement, the real joy of Easter comes from remembering that we are set free from sin by Christ's resurrection. Jesus showed us the greatest example of love through His death and glorious resurrection, conquering sin and giving us the ability to spend eternity with Him. Easter reminds us that we can find comfort, strength, and hope in Christ, for "He is not here, He has risen!" (Mark 28:6). So, this Easter, be sure to spread the good news amongst your family and friends!

Charlotte:

Easter is usually celebrated by chocolate eggs and bunnies. As Christians, we celebrate that Jesus Christ our King died for our sins and miraculously rose from the dead. He suffered an extremely painful death for us, so that we can live without fear and sin. Jesus was tortured and mocked by his own people, and he was hung on the cross with a crown made of thorns on his head, with a sign hung above him saying ‘This is the King of the Jews’. He gave up his life for us. And that day was then named Good Friday. Three days later, Jesus proved he was the true Messiah when he rose from the dead and proved the soldiers and religious leaders wrong. We get to feel joy and loved on Easter because Jesus died for us and he came back to life for us. Everything Jesus does, is for us.

Have a great Easter everyone!

Our Junior School students recently participated in CPR training, gaining valuable knowledge and practical skills that could one day help save a life.

Through age-appropriate, hands-on activities, students learned the basics of recognising an emergency, calling for help and performing CPR. The session focused on building confidence, ensuring students felt capable of responding calmly and effectively in a real-life situation.

Students approached the training with enthusiasm and focus, asking thoughtful questions and supporting one another as they practised new skills.

Experiences like this are an important part of equipping students with essential life skills. It was wonderful to see our students engage so positively, developing both their understanding and confidence in caring for others.

Our Junior School recently hosted a New Student Morning Tea, welcoming students who joined our community this year and last year.

During recess, students spent time with our Junior School leaders, enjoying games, conversation and the opportunity to get to know one another in a relaxed setting. It was a lovely way for students to connect across year groups and build new friendships.

Our leaders played an important role in creating a warm and inclusive environment, helping new students feel comfortable and part of the Tara community.

The morning was filled with laughter and meaningful connections and was a wonderful reflection of the welcoming spirit of our Junior School.

Our Kindergarten students recently participated in a meaningful and engaging Indigenous Incursion, providing a valuable opportunity to learn about important cultures and traditions.

Through storytelling, music and hands-on activities, students explored important aspects of First Nations culture, including connection to Country, respect for the environment and the significance of symbols and traditions. The interactive nature of the experience encouraged curiosity and allowed students to engage in learning in a way that was both accessible and memorable.

It was wonderful to see the students so engaged, asking thoughtful questions and showing respect and interest as they deepened their understanding of Australia’s rich cultural heritage.

As part of their second Unit of Inquiry, our Year 4 students visited Sydney Zoo to deepen their understanding of the central idea: “Interdependent relationships sustain life on Earth.”

Throughout the day, students explored different habitats and ecosystems, observing how living things rely on one another to survive. The experience helped bring their learning to life, allowing them to see these connections in real life.

It was a valuable opportunity for students to build their understanding through observation, discussion and shared discovery.

We are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students in the Term 1 Swimming and Cross Country Carnivals.

Congratulations to all students for their fantastic efforts, determination and house spirit throughout the carnivals.

Our Tara girls achieved outstanding results at the NSWCIS Swimming Championships on 25 March, representing the Junior School with pride and determination.

Five swimmers competed on the day, with every athlete finishing in the top 10 in their respective events - a fantastic achievement.

Highlights included a 3rd place finish in the 8–10 years 200m Freestyle Relay by Stefeni, Mia, Emilie and Chelsea, along with strong individual performances across butterfly, backstroke and individual medley events. Chelsea and Rebecca both delivered impressive results across multiple races.

A special congratulations to our relay team, who have become the first-ever Tara relay team to qualify for NSWPSSA. This is a significant milestone for Tara swimming, and we wish the team all the best as they prepare to compete at the state championships in April.

We are incredibly proud of our swimmers and the commitment, resilience and team spirit they demonstrated throughout the competition.

Akshraa, Year 11 and Victoria, Year 10

Cambodia was nothing like we expected. From visiting our sponsor sisters for the first time to sitting with mothers’ groups, every moment of our service trip felt alive with meaning and purpose.

Over five days, our team visited rural communities supported by World Vision, where we engaged with schools, families, and local programs. One of the most impactful visits was to the Basedth community, where grandparents are often the primary caregivers while parents work in factories. Through initiatives like the Grandmother Inclusive Program, they are taught about nutrition, hygiene, and childcare, while also gaining emotional support. At the local primary school, we saw remarkable progress - attendance has increased from 55% to 97%, and dropout rates have dropped from 30% to 2%. Simple improvements, such as building toilets, have made a significant difference, especially for girls who previously missed school due to a lack of facilities.

Beyond the statistics, it was the connections we formed that made the experience unforgettable. Sharing lunch with our sponsor sisters and their families allowed us to bond through games, crafts, and conversation, despite language barriers. We also met senior students who shared their hopes of pursuing higher education, showing how access to learning is transforming futures. Visiting agricultural cooperatives further highlighted this change, with one woman explaining how she went from earning just $2.50 a day to making $1000 in her first month after learning to grow cucumbers. These programs are not just providing short-term aid but are creating long-term independence and opportunity for entire communities.

Our experience also revealed how access to basic resources can completely reshape lives. In one village, families once walked hours to collect unsafe water, leading to illness and lost time. Now, with clean water available, health has improved and children can attend school more regularly. School breakfast programs ensure that students are nourished and able to focus, while community education initiatives support mothers and young people with essential life skills. Our journey concluded with a visit to Angkor Wat, where we reflected on everything we had learned. This trip not only deepened our understanding of global challenges but also showed us the resilience, strength, and hope within the communities we met, lessons that will stay with us long after returning home.

On Friday 20 March, Tara students studying Japanese from Years 8-12 welcomed nine students visiting from a school in Japan called Tsuchiura Daichi School. The day was an exciting opportunity to learn about each other's cultures, speak in Japanese and English and connect through activities such as games, origami and quizzes. Highlight were the hard-fought volleyball match at lunch and the Tim Tam tasting.

At Tara, we also believe that Language learning creates a beautiful opportunity to use our language skills to serve others and offer hospitality. Each Tara girl introduced themselves in Japanese and made our visiting students feel welcome as they guided them around the school and engaged with them in classes. Before Chapel, Year 10 students explained the meaning of Chapel and during Chapel, Year 12 students read the Bible in Japanese. The Japanese students were very moved by these simple acts of hospitality.

We look forward to welcoming our next school group in July.

Our Year 7 students recently participated in Enlighten Day, a valuable experience that focused on wellbeing, connection and personal growth.

Throughout the day, students engaged in a range of activities designed to support their transition into senior school. They created personal journals to reflect on their thoughts and experiences and explored practical strategies for building friendships and strengthening connections with others.

A key focus of the day was understanding what it means to be a good friend - both to others and to themselves. Students discussed the impact of negative self-talk and learnt strategies to challenge unhelpful thinking, while also exploring the importance of gratitude and recognising the positive aspects of their lives.

The day was filled with meaningful conversations and reflection, as well as moments of fun and laughter.

Overall, Enlighten Day highlighted the importance of kind and empowering relationships, equipping students with skills and insights that will support their wellbeing throughout the year and beyond.

Jasmine and Sofia, Year 9

On Friday 20 March, our Year 9 commerce classes had the amazing opportunity to visit Luna Park Sydney as a part of their studies on Consumer and Financial decisions and Promoting and Selling.

This excursion allowed us to observe how companies make financial and marketing decisions to operate successfully. All the students had a chance to explore the park and its vibrant attractions. Our goal throughout this experience was to keep track of our spending on rides, carnival games and food items. We also investigated the marketing approaches of Luna Park and how they influence, inform and persuade consumers to spend their money.

Looking forward to the rides, we observed management and operations learning about how companies adapt to government policies while satisfying consumer needs. The Tara girls represented the school very well, having a fun time with friends and even some of our teachers joined us on the rides. This excursion to Luna Park helped the Year 9 commerce classes to develop a better understanding of financial choices in different scenarios, and what a privilege to be set beside the harbour, making it one to remember. Ultimately, our knowledge of financial literacy was increased, and we could apply the concepts we learnt in theory in a real-world context. We appreciate our teachers for making this happen and we are grateful to enjoy these educational and fun trips through Year 9 Commerce.

Year 11 Health and Movement Science students recently completed a depth study in First Aid as part of their Preliminary course, The Body and Mind in Motion.

Throughout the unit, students developed their understanding through both practical application and critical inquiry. They had the opportunity to apply first aid skills and principles across a range of sporting and movement scenarios, strengthening their confidence in responding to real-life situations.

As part of this study, students also achieved a national accreditation in First Aid, equipping them with valuable, life-saving skills.

This experience provided students with meaningful, hands-on learning and an important foundation for both their studies and everyday life.

Over the weekend of 14 March 2026, Melody competed in the Australia Youth Circuit (AYC) Final for Epee, a national competition organised by Fencing Federation Australia.

Melody achieved her personal best, reaching the semi-finals and finishing 4th overall among 15 top-ranked competitors who qualified through their results across four tournaments in 2025. This is an excellent achievement at a national level.

We congratulate Melody on this outstanding result and look forward to seeing her continued progress.

Our Year 10 students recently participated in a valuable Work Experience Program, spending three days gaining insight into the world of work across a diverse range of industries.

Students were placed in a variety of settings, including media organisations such as Channel 9, local businesses like TerryWhite Chemmart, primary schools and many more. These placements provided students with the opportunity to experience different workplaces, develop practical skills and begin to understand the expectations of professional environments.

Following their work experience, students took part in a Careers Assessment, designed to help them reflect on their strengths, interests and potential career pathways. Through this process, they gained a deeper understanding of their skills and the opportunities available to them as they begin to consider life beyond school.

This experience was an important step in supporting students as they explore their passions and prepare for future pathways, equipping them with confidence and insight as they move closer to entering the workforce.

Last week, a number of our students competed at the Tildesley Tennis Shield, hosted by IGSA. Despite mixed weather conditions, the girls gave it their all - not only in their matches, but in the way they supported one another throughout the event.

After weeks of preparation, 13 students took part in singles and doubles matches against other girls’ schools from across NSW and the ACT. It was pleasing to see them apply their skills in a competitive setting and approach each match with focus and determination.

What stood out most across the two days was the way the team encouraged each other. Whether on the court or on the sidelines, there was a consistent sense of support that contributed to a positive team environment.

We are proud of how our students represented Tara and the way they approached the experience together.

Congratulations to our Tara rowers who represented the School at the Rowing Nationals in Tasmania over the weekend.

Despite a delayed start due to weather conditions, the girls approached the competition with focus and determination. Competing against crews from across the country, both Tara crews delivered strong performances in the U17 Schoolgirls Coxed Quad Scull and the Schoolgirls Coxed Four.

This is a significant achievement at a national level and reflects the commitment and preparation of our students throughout the season.

We also extend our thanks to the staff who accompanied the team and supported the girls throughout the regatta, contributing to a positive and memorable experience.

We are very proud of our rowers and the way they represented Tara on the national stage.

It has been an incredible wrap up to a fantastic term of sport at Tara.

Over the weekend, 26 teams competed across three sports in Grand Finals and 3rd Place Playoffs. This was a wonderful reflection of the commitment and effort shown by our students throughout the season.

It was great to see so many teams reach the final stages of competition, and to witness the determination, teamwork and support displayed across all matches.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to our coaches for their guidance and dedication throughout the term, as well as to the many families and students who came along to support from the sidelines. Your encouragement plays an important role in creating such a positive and enjoyable sporting environment.

We congratulate all teams on a successful season and a strong finish to the term.

Congratulations to Pare (Year 9) who has been selected for the IGSA Swim Team to compete at NSWCIS Swim Championships in 15yr 50m Butterfly and 15yr 100m Butterfly.

We wish her all the best!

We are now certainly back into full swing with the afternoon swimming program and squads.

If you would like to join our program, please contact our reception on 8838 2699 or email: swimming@tara.nsw.edu.au

Learn to Swim:
Monday to Friday Afternoon: 3.30pm - 6.15pm

We will be having our Holiday Intensive program over the April school holidays for one week only. We will be offering private and group lessons, if you are interested, please email swimming@tara.nsw.edu.au or contact reception on 8838 2699 to book in.

Dates:
13 – 17 April, spots are still available for group classes

Please note that there are no swimming lessons during the Easter Holidays :

***Please note that we will continue the afternoon swimming program during the school holidays****

If you are going away, please ensure you put in explained absent to ensure you receive your make up token.

We are now accepting Active Kids and First Lap vouchers. To use them in our program, please forward the details to swimming@tara.nsw.edu.au with your child’s details and QR code.

If you have a child or know someone who is at squad level, and are wanting to join Swimming@Tara squads, please email swimming@tara.nsw.edu.au so we can get them in for an assessment!

Have a lovely Easter break and we’ll see you after!