Assistant Principal's

 Report

During the week of the 7th to the 13th of September, communities across Australia recognise National Child Protection Week reminding us of the profound responsibility we share in keeping children safe. At Brigidine, we believe that each one of us is sacred and therefore we are committed to ensuring that every girl in our care learns in an environment where she is respected, nurtured, and supported to thrive. We know that when young people feel safe, they can grow in confidence, learning, and faith.

This year the theme is “Every conversation matters: shifting conversation to action’ highlighting the crucial role that meaningful dialogue plays in building safe communities. As part of our regular Pastoral Care program many of these aspects are addressed with our students. When such messages are reinforced at home our girls benefit from a supportive network. 

So what can we do?

• We can speak up — respectfully and safely — if we see or hear something that doesn’t feel right.
• We can check in on our friends and classmates. A simple “Are you okay?” can mean more than you think.
• We can be someone others can trust — by listening without judgment and encouraging people to talk to a trusted adult if they need help.
• And if we’re ever unsure, we can ask for help ourselves — from a teacher, school counsellor, or another adult we trust.

The importance of positive student teacher relationships.

The research consistently shows that positive teacher-student relationships have many benefits for learning. Positive teacher–student relationships are supportive and fair, and develop in learning environments where students feel safe, understood and appreciated. At Brigidine teachers affirm the belief that all students can experience success by maintaining high expectations, modelling expected behaviours and responding to students’ needs. 

Appropriate teacher-student relationships are characterised by professionalism, respect, and clear boundaries. By upholding these principles, teachers can foster positive, effective, and respectful relationships with their students. Our girls are advised to seek advice from a trusted adult (parent, guardian, counsellor) if they have problems with a teacher. 

Regular attendance. 

Regular attendance is one of the most significant factors influencing student learning, wellbeing, and future opportunities; while teacher quality and student engagement are also critical, attendance remains a key contributor to academic achievement, reinforcing the message that every school day matters. When students attend school consistently, they not only engage fully with their learning, but also strengthen friendships, build confidence, and develop positive habits that prepare them for life beyond school.

This term, we have been encouraged to see many of our girls making a strong commitment to their learning through regular attendance. At the same time, we continue to remind families that even small amounts of time away from school add up quickly. Non-attendance has a variety of effects on students, both academically and socially.

Absenteeism can increase social isolation, including alienation and lack of engagement with the school community and peers, leading to emotional and behavioural difficulties 

Parents/ Guardians have up to 7 days following an absence to provide an explanation. Absences are to be entered via compass.  

As we move into Term 4, we ask families to support us in reinforcing the message that every lesson matters. Together, we can ensure our girls are present, engaged, and ready to make the most of their education. 

Term 4 Reminders:

A reminder that when girls return to school on 14 October that they are to be in full summer uniform. Please note the following changes to the hours of the uniform shop from term 4.

• Monday: 11.00am - 4.00pm
• Tuesday - closed
• Wednesday: 8.00am - 4.00pm
• Thursday: 8.00am - 11.00am
• Friday - closed 

Upcoming Events:

Monday 13 October 

• Flexible Learning Day
• Years 7-10 Parent Teacher Student Conferences

Tuesday 14 October 

• Term 4 commences
• Year 12 2026 Information Evening

Tuesday 21 October 

• Year 11 Parent/ Teacher/ Student Conferences (4.00 - 7.00 via zoom)

Julie Norman

Assistant Principal