Student opportunities and activities

Trips and excursions

Our students enjoy getting out of the classroom to explore, learn and try new things. These experiences help them grow, build confidence and see how their learning connects to the world.

PSSA Netball and Soccer

PSSA stands for the Primary Schools Sports Association, an inter-school sporting competition for students in NSW public primary schools. In PSSA sports, students in Years 3–6 represent their school in matches against other local schools.

During Terms 2 and 3, students at Cardiff South can join our netball or soccer teams, competing in the Crossroads Competition across several gala days. These events offer a chance to develop teamwork and sportsmanship while having fun. They work towards competing in the finals, where we have been previously successful and have brought back the trophy on many occasions.

ICAS Assessments

ICAS offer assessments in mathematics, English, Science and Digital Technologies and contain challenging questions on a wide range of concepts within each subject.

In 2025 we had a number of students perform exceptionally well. Henry P received a distinction in each test, finishing in the top 2% of the country for English and Science. Jacob B also received distinctions in Science and Mathematics, finishing in the top 2% of the country in mathematics. Liam K received distinctions in Science and Digital Technologies.

The other students in this photo also achieved a merit or credit in their assessments.

Star Struck

Star Struck is a performing arts extravaganza presented by Newcastle, The Hunter and Central Coast areas of the NSW Department of Education.

Students at Cardiff South have the opportunity yearly to participate in this extraordinary regional event.

The laughter, friendships, and special memories made during Star Struck are treasured for years to come.

NSW PSSA State Knockout Competitions

Students at Cardiff South Public School can participate and excel in many sporting fields. Annually we compete in the NSW PSSA State Knockout competitions for touch football, netball, soccer and basketball which enables students to challenge their skill levels against tough opponents. These competitions open opportunities for skill advancement, displays of sportsmanship and develop positive relationships with their peers. We over pathways for talented students to gain selection for Hunter PSSA teams by nominating them for zone and regional trials.

Sporting Schools

Cardiff South Public School regularly applies for Sporting Schools grants which we use to employ specialist coaches to expose our students to sports such as ultimate frisbee, lacrosse, hockey, AFL, tennis, cricket and flag football at no cost to families. Inclusivity is extremely important at Cardiff South Public School, and we love to see all our students have access to sporting opportunities. Our primary students with a physical disability have attended the ‘Come and Try Athletics Day’ annually that allows them to access modified equipment and specialist coaching while having fun and competing with students from across the Hunter region.

Sports Carnivals

Cardiff South Public School has a rich sporting tradition, and our annual swimming, cross country and athletics carnivals are some of the most popular days on our school calendar. Our four house groups compete to gain the most points combined from the three carnivals with points awarded for participation and placing in events across all disciplines. The winning house is awarded the House Championship trophy at Presentation Day each year. Students who achieve individual success at these carnivals are given the opportunity to represent Cardiff South at Crossroads Zone carnivals, with the possibility to move onto Hunter, State and National level. We recognise the successes of our students with certificates and ribbons at assemblies shortly after each carnival.

Incursions

School incursions benefit students by providing hands-on, engaging learning experiences that enhance social skills, critical thinking, and creativity. They bring new topics and expertise into the classroom, making learning more memorable and complementing the curriculum in a safe, familiar environment without the need for travel.

During Term 2, Stage 1 were learning all about 'Sight and Sound' during weekly Science lessons. Mitchell Serena from Kaleidoscope Science Incursions came along to our school to present an interactive show telling the story of light and sound through a selection of musical, colourful and spectacular demonstrations. The show covered how light and sound are made, how light and sound move around and how scientists can help people see and hear things better with inventions and technology.

Zone and Hunter PSSA Representation

PSSA representative roles involve high-level competitive sport opportunities for NSW primary school students (typically Years 5-6) to compete in zone, regional, and state knockout teams. Selection is based on skill, often requiring students to be, or show potential to be, competitive at a high level.

Visiting authors and artists

Gregg Dreise, sharing his love of culture, Country, language and knowledge. Our school was lucky enough to meet the fabulous Gregg Dreise and listen to his stories and music.

Gregg is a gifted artist, storyteller and musician. He features the didgeridoo and guitar in his performances at schools, libraries and festivals around Australia. His presentations are inspiring, fun and interactive.