Learning & Innovation

While I am a familiar face to many in the Brigidine community, I am delighted to take on a new role as Director of Learning and Innovation. I look forward to working with students, staff and families to support the holistic learning that is central to life at the College - nurturing academic growth alongside curiosity, confidence, wellbeing and independence.

As we move through Term 4, I encourage students to maintain consistent learning routines, seek feedback and ask for help when needed. For Year 9 and Year 10 students preparing for examinations, small habits, planning revision, reviewing key concepts and practising questions regularly can make preparation more manageable. Balancing study with rest and time to recharge also supports confidence and wellbeing.

Supporting Learning at Home:

Families play an important role in helping students develop independence. Conversations about what your daughter is learning, upcoming deadlines and the support she needs can help her manage competing demands.

Encourage your daughter to check Canvas for learning materials and classwork, and the Compass Calendar for assessment dates. Keeping these routines consistent helps students take responsibility for their learning and identify questions to discuss with their teachers.

Extended Leave During Term Time:

Regular attendance supports continuity of learning. Families planning an absence of five school days or more during term time must complete the College’s Extended Leave Application process.

Please note the following requirements:

• Complete applications must be submitted at least four weeks before the proposed leave, except in extenuating circumstances.
• The application pack is available through the star icon in Compass under “Application for Extended Leave”, or from the Front Office.
• Families must complete the Application for Extended Leave (A1), attach travel documentation and complete the Parent and Student Acknowledgement Form (BR1). The acknowledgement form must also be signed by the Director of Learning and Innovation.
• Submit all documents as a single PDF to principal@bcrandwick.catholic.edu.au, or deliver a hard copy to the Front Office.
• Applications are considered individually. Extended leave for Year 11 and Year 12 students will only be approved in extenuating circumstances.

Once leave is approved, students must email their teachers at least three weeks before departure to discuss missed learning and assessment arrangements. Students remain responsible for completing classwork outlined on Canvas and checking assessment dates on Compass. If an assessment falls during the leave period, students must complete the Missed Assessment – Extended Leave Register and discuss submission arrangements with their teacher.

Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting your daughter’s learning. I look forward to working with our community in this new capacity.

Natalia Hennessey

Director of Learning & Innovation