Cohort News

Year 7 Pastoral Care

Dear Year 7 Students and Families,

Welcome to our Term 3, Week 8 newsletter update! It has been an action-packed and meaningful few weeks for our Year 7 cohort as we continue to journey through the term together. From hands-on science excursions to cultural learning and community prayer, the girls have shown fantastic engagement across all areas of school life.

Experiencing Science at Taronga Zoo

On Friday, 27th August, Year 7 students stepped out of the traditional classroom and into nature with an exciting trip to Taronga Zoo for Science. The excursion provided a hands-on opportunity for the girls to apply their classroom learning to real-world environments, observing diverse species and discovering more about animal adaptations and habitats. It was wonderful to see their curiosity ignited as they explored the zoo grounds and engaged with the educational activities.

NAIDOC Activity with Des Marsh

In celebration of NAIDOC, Year 7 was privileged to participate in a rich cultural learning activity facilitated by Des Marsh from Nyumbar Education. Des delivered a deeply informative and engaging session that shared valuable insights into First Nations culture, history, and storytelling. Following the presentation, the girls took part in an immersive art activity; creating meaningful pieces while reflecting on the importance of culture and connection. It was a memorable experience that resonated strongly across the cohort.

Father’s Day Mass

On Friday of Week 7, our College community gathered for our annual Father’s Day Mass. It was a joyful occasion, and we were thrilled to see such a fantastic turnout of fathers, grandfathers, and father figures joining us in prayer and celebration. Events like these highlight the strong partnership between our families and the College; and we thank everyone who took the time to come along and celebrate with their daughters.

Year 7 Vaccinations

Please note that the Year 7 Vaccinations will take place on Monday, 19th October. Detailed information regarding the vaccination process and instructions on how to provide consent have been communicated to parents via Compass. Please ensure you log into Compass to review these details and complete the consent requirements ahead of the date.

As always, thank you for your ongoing support as our Year 7 students continue to grow, learn, and live out the Brigidine spirit of strength and gentleness.

Tony Munguia

Year 7 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 8 Pastoral Care

It has been fantastic to see so many of our Year 8 students fully immersing themselves in the broader life of the College this term. Whether representing the school on the field in AFL and OzTag, or getting involved in various co-curricular clubs during lunchtimes, the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the girls has been outstanding. Getting involved in College life builds strong friendships, fosters teamwork, and creates a true sense of belonging.

A major highlight from our sporting community is a massive congratulations to Carina N, who delivered an exceptional performance at the Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Athletics Carnival. Carina won the Junior 1500m event in record-breaking time! This is a remarkable achievement that reflects her dedication, grit, and athletic talent. The entire Year 8 cohort and College community are incredibly proud of her.

During our most recent Pastoral Care session, Year 8 students completed a "Respect Check-In" reflection activity. Students were encouraged to take an honest look back over the past two terms and write down specific instances where they have demonstrated respect; as well as where they could improve across three key areas:

• Themselves (health, boundaries, and positive self-talk)
• Family and Friends (communication, kindness, and active listening)
• The College Community & Teachers (classroom engagement, environment care, and pride in uniform)

The focus of this exercise was self-awareness and personal accountability. To conclude the lesson, each student set a clear, practical commitment to turn one identified challenge into a positive habit as we head into the second half of the year.

As a reminder, there are still 3 weeks remaining in Term 3. While energy levels can naturally drop toward the end of a busy term, it is vital that the girls maintain their focus, classroom engagement, and a strong work ethic right through to the final day.

We encourage parents to continue reinforcing these expectations at home so our students finish the term proud of both their academic efforts and their conduct. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership.

Jon Campbell

Year 8 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 9 Pastoral Care

Dear Year 9 Students, Parents, and Carers,

As we approach the end of Term 3, Year 9 students have continued to engage in a range of learning and wellbeing opportunities alongside their usual academic and co-curricular commitments.

Congratulations to Kasey R, who was named joint 2026 NAIDOC Student of the Year! We congratulate her on this fantastic achievement. 

Recently, students participated in a Sun Safety presentation, which focused on the importance of protecting themselves from harmful UV exposure and developing positive sun-safe habits. This was a timely reminder for students to take greater responsibility for their health and make informed choices as they become more independent.

Students also took part in a Cyberbullying Workshop through the Optus Digital Program. The workshop explored respectful online behaviour, the impact of cyberbullying, and the importance of making safe and responsible choices when communicating online. Students were also encouraged to consider how they can support others and contribute to a more positive digital environment.

As this is our final newsletter for Term 3, I would like to acknowledge the efforts of Year 9 throughout what has been a busy term. With only a few weeks remaining, I encourage students to continue applying themselves, maintain positive routines, and finish the term well.

Thank you also to our Year 9 families for their ongoing support. I hope everyone enjoys a safe and restful holiday break; and I look forward to seeing students return refreshed and ready for Term 4.

Kind regards,

Kathy Phetrasi

Year 9 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 10 Pastoral Care

Term 3 has been incredibly busy for Year 10. The girls have engaged with a variety of presentations in the last couple of weeks, each focused on strengthening the their learning, confidence, safety, and readiness for life beyond school.

Brent Sanders is an experienced educator and former police officer who has delivered consent, personal safety, and conflict‑psychology programs to schools across Australia. His presentation encouraged the girls to think deeply about respectful relationships, decision‑making, and the importance of understanding consent. Brent’s work centres on empowering young women through knowledge and awareness, helping them recognise peer pressure situations, understand offender thinking, and develop practical strategies to stay safe.

The girls also engaged in a digital safety workshop delivered through the Optus Digital Thumbprint program. The session explored how young people can protect themselves online, identify potential scams, and navigate digital spaces with confidence. The presenter highlighted how scammers increasingly target teens through social media, fake job listings, online shopping, and password scams. 

The presenter also spoke about what employers look for in young applicants entering the workforce:

• A positive and responsible digital footprint
• Awareness of online risks
• Strong communication skills
• The ability to make safe, informed decisions online

Elevate delivered a focused study‑skills session that helped the girls elevate their revision habits and feel more confident heading into assessments. It was great to see so many students engaged and asking thoughtful questions. Families are encouraged to keep these conversations going at home to support the girls in building consistent, sustainable study routines moving forward into Years 11 and 12. 

R U OK? Day 

Thursday,10th September isR U OK? Day. In PC, we will be working on some wellbeing and pastoral activities. We are encouraging Year 10 to continue these conversations and ‘check in’ not just on this day, but every day.

Student of the Week

We have reintroduced SOTW as a Year 10 cohort. Well done to our SOTW so far: Keira S, Jacinta G, Ava K, Ava D and Grace Z. 

Please feel free to email me with any questions: jessica.harper@syd.catholic.edu.au 

Jessica Harper

Year 10 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 11 Pastoral Care

Dear Parents, Carers, and Students of Year 11,

Over the past few weeks, our cohort has reached several significant milestones as we transition into the final stretch of the year.

We are thrilled to officially announce our Student Leadership Team for 2027! Please join us in celebrating and congratulating the following students:

• College Captain: Matilda D
• Vice Captain: Klara J
• Social Justice Captain: Eva T
• Sustainability Captain: Eva T.S.
• Faith and Charism Captain: Isabella Ann T
• SRC Captains: Zahra O & Rebecca H
• Arts and Culture Captain: Lola A
• Sport Captain: Alexis H

House Captains

• Aquinas House Captain: Gabrielle S & Willow S
• Brigid House Captain: Hana H & Georgia C
• Delany House Captain: Kiani H & Eabha M
• Regina Mundi House Captain: Lucy G & Freya L
• Winifred House Captain: Zari B & Isabella M
• Xavier House Captain: Isabelle B & Claire C

We cannot wait to see how this wonderful team will guide, inspire, and lead our school community over the coming year.

I would also like to extend a sincere well done to every student who put themselves forward and took part in the leadership selection process. Stepping up to apply requires courage, reflection, and dedication. Remember that leadership is defined by your daily actions, support for your peers, and commitment to our community - not just a badge. You will all continue to be leaders in your own unique ways throughout the next year.

Our Year 11 students are currently undertaking their Preliminary Examinations. We hope that this period goes smoothly for everyone.

It is important to remember that these exams serve as a valuable opportunity to establish strong study habits, refine time management, and build effective exam strategies ahead of Year 12.

Supporting your teenager through assessment periods can be challenging. Here are several helpful resources offering practical strategies to help manage stress and maintain healthy routines at home:

• ReachOut Parents – Supporting Your Teen During Exams: Guidance on managing exam stress, healthy study environments, and maintaining balance.
• Headspace – How to Handle Exam Stress: Practical mental health tips and advice for supporting young people under academic pressure.
• Raising Children Network – Stress: Advice for parents on helping teens balance study, rest, nutrition, and well-being.

As Term 3 winds down, I want to take a moment to express how exceptionally well our students have worked throughout their Year 11 studies. Their perseverance, focus, and growth over the year have been wonderful to witness.

Next term marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as our students officially start their Year 12 studies. The coming year is going to fly by very quickly, but it promises to be immensely rewarding. I encourage every student to pause, take a breath, and truly savour these special moments as they happen.

Wishing all of our Year 11 students the very best as they complete their examinations and enjoy a well-deserved break!

Rebecca Monohan

Year 11 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 12 Pastoral Care

The finish line is in sight and the vibe across the cohort is buzzing. Here is what's been happening and what’s coming up for the Class of 2026!

Following the completion of their Trial Exams, Year 12 took a well-deserved opportunity to step away from the regular timetable for their Reflection Day. It was a wonderful time for students to reset, recharge, bond, and look ahead as they pause before graduation.

2026 NAIDOC Student of the Year

Congratulations to Letayah G, who was named joint 2026 NAIDOC Student of the Year! We are beyond proud of her incredible leadership, dedication, and contributions to our school and wider community.

Year 12 Countdown

Please review the timetable below for the upcoming final events of Week 9:

Monday 14th September - Sports Uniform to & from school

8.45am: Homeroom

• Year 12 may decorate dresses appropriately (no cuts/midriffs, nothing too short)
• Ensure you have a full uniform ready for Wednesday

9am - 2.45pm: Normal School Day

• Final lessons with subject teachers in classrooms
• Free periods spent in the library
• If you have a flexible study period during period 5, you must change before leaving

2.45pm: Clean up

• Clean up feathers, decorations and materials

Tuesday 15th September - Sports Uniform

8am

• Senior Breakfast in the new Canteen Area

8.45am - 11am

• Year meeting in Cullen Hall

11am

• Recess in the new Canteen Area

11.30am - 1pm

• Graduation practice in Cullen Hall

1pm

• Lunch in the new Canteen Area

1.30pm - 3pm

• Fun Activity in Cullen Hall

Wednesday 16th September - Full School Uniform

8am

• All Year 12 to Collect Green Cap & Gown plus stole in Synan

8.30am

• All Year 12 to walk to Mass together from Synan

9am

• Graduation Mass at OLSH

10.30am - 11.15am

• Morning Tea on Cullen Balcony

11.15am onwards

• Graduation Ceremony in Cullen Hall

Dates to Remember

A Final Word to the Class of 2026

To our incredible Year 12 students: soak in every second of this final week. You’ve worked hard, supported one another, and made memories that will last a lifetime. Take a moment to laugh, reflect, and celebrate how far you’ve come, you’ve earned every bit of it! We couldn't be prouder of you, and we can’t wait to celebrate your journey this Wednesday. 

Congratulations, Class of 2026!

Nikki McWhirter

Year 12 Pastoral Care Coordinator