Cohort News

Year 7 Pastoral Care

We are now in Week 8 of Term 2, and it is incredible to reflect on how quickly this school year is progressing. Our Year 7 students are no longer just finding their feet in a secondary environment; they are truly running with their opportunities and immersing themselves completely into the vibrant life of Brigidine College Randwick.

Over the past few weeks, our cohort has stepped outside the traditional classroom environment to participate in a diverse range of co-curricular excursions. These experiences have seen our girls actively involved in dancing, table tennis, and chess. Whether they were expressing their creativity and rhythm on the dance floor, demonstrating sharp reflexes and excellent sportsmanship at table tennis, or employing deep focus and strategic thinking over the chess board, the enthusiasm displayed by the girls was outstanding. These excursions provided a fantastic platform for students to challenge themselves, uncover hidden talents, and bond with their peers across different homerooms.

More importantly, through these shared experiences, our students are now getting deeply involved into what it truly means to be a part of the Brigidine community. They are actively living out our College motto, Fortiter et Suaviter (With Strength and Gentleness), by encouraging one another, celebrating each other's successes, and showing remarkable inclusivity. Watching the girls support and cheer for one another during these various activities highlights the beautiful growth of "The BRAVE Brigidine Spirit" within this cohort. They are learning that being part of our community means leaning into teamwork, respecting diverse individual strengths, and showing kindness at every turn.

Preparing for Assessments

As we approach the latter half of Term 2, formal assessments are well underway. This is an important period for the girls to practice their academic routines, focus on independent study habits, and strive to achieve their personal best. I highly encourage parents to discuss upcoming tasks with their daughters to help them prepare thoroughly and manage their time effectively. As a reminder, the Year 7 Assessment Handbook 2026 is available in Compass under the ‘Favourites’ menu for your reference; and contains full schedules and details.

Correct Procedures for Missed Assessments

While we hope all students are present for their tasks, illness and misadventure can occur. If your daughter is absent on the day of an assessment, it is vital that families strictly follow the correct procedures outlined in the Handbook:

• Advise the College: A parent or guardian must telephone or email the College on the day of the absence to advise both myself (the Pastoral Care Coordinator) and the relevant Head of Department.
• Documentation: Students must print and complete the Years 7-9 Illness/Misadventure/Special Consideration Form via Compass, providing a medical certificate or parental document to their class teacher upon their arrival back at school.
• Online Submissions: For any hand-in tasks, the work must still be uploaded to Canvas by the specific date and time on the notification, even if the student is absent (practical tasks are the only exception).
• Missed Assessment Session: Students must be ready to complete any missed in-class tasks during the next available weekly Missed Assessment Session, which takes place on Wednesday afternoons between 3:15pm and 4:15pm. Parents will be notified via Compass if their daughter has been added to a session.

We remain incredibly impressed with the resilience, kindness, and community spirit the Year 7 cohort continues to display each day. Thank you for your continued partnership as we guide the girls through a successful and fulfilling term.

Tony Munguia

Year 7 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 8 Pastoral Care

Can you believe we are already past the halfway mark? Term 2 is flying by at an absolute lightning pace, and our Year 8 students have been incredibly busy making the most of every opportunity. Here is a snapshot of what’s been happening around the College and some important notices as we head into the final weeks of the term.

Week 5 saw Year 8 have their first Reflection Day at the College. We were visited by the Youth Mission Team who conducted various activities and performances around the concept of respectful relationships. This was consolidated in Week 6 when we welcomed Brainstorm Productions to the College for a Pastoral Care lesson. Their powerful performance focused heavily on relationships, following the journey of two students and their relationship experiences throughout their schooling years. It was fantastic to see the Year 8 girls so incredibly attentive and engaged throughout the entire performance. The themes of empathy, digital responsibility, and mutual respect sparked some excellent discussions afterward.

Across Weeks 6 and 7, the College community observed Reconciliation Week. Our Year 8 students leaned into this important time with great maturity, engaging in a variety of meaningful learning activities and reflections during their PC lessons to deepen their understanding of shared histories and cultures.

Once again, we are thrilled by the sheer volume of Year 8 students immersing themselves in the diverse extra-curricular activities on offer at the College. There is a wonderful energy among the cohort, with students getting involved in:

• The Arts: Rehearsals are well underway for the highly anticipated upcoming College production, Shrek The Musical
• Sports: High participation and great sportsmanship in representative netball and football
• Clubs: Students are connecting over shared interests in everything from Knitting Club to Book Club

Thank you for encouraging your daughters to step outside their comfort zones and try new things.

As we push through to the end of term, we ask for your support in ensuring the girls maintain a high standard of dress and appearance. Please review the following key regulations with your daughter.

• Skirt Length: The school skirt must sit just above the knee
• School Bags: Students are only permitted to carry the official Brigidine school bag and tote bag. Non-school bags are not allowed.
• Makeup: Students are not permitted to wear makeup to school

• Earrings: Students may wear one plain earring in each ear lobe only. If a student has a piercing in the top of their ear (cartilage), they will be required to remove it straight away.

   

With the end of term in sight, assessment season is upon us. I want to wish all of our Year 8 students the very best of luck with their upcoming assessments.

If the girls maintain their current focus and positive attitudes, we have no doubt that Year 8 will finish the term exceptionally strongly. Thank you for your continued partnership and support!

Jon Campbell

Year 8 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 9 Pastoral Care

As we approach the end of Term 2, I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the positive way Year 9 students have engaged in both their learning and Pastoral Care programs throughout the term. It has been pleasing to see students continuing to develop important skills that support both their academic success and personal wellbeing.

Pastoral Care Learning

This term, Year 9 students participated in an Elevate Education seminar focused on Time Management. The presenters shared practical strategies to help students better manage their workload, balance their commitments, and develop effective study habits. Students explored the importance of planning ahead, prioritising tasks, and creating routines that support both academic achievement and wellbeing. These skills are particularly valuable as students navigate the increasing demands of secondary school.

We were pleased to welcome Brainstorm Productions back to Brigidine College to present The Hurting Game. This engaging and thought-provoking performance addressed a range of issues highly relevant to young people today; including bullying and cyberbullying, digital reputation and cyber safety, resilience and digital citizenship, peer pressure and risk taking, mental health and help-seeking, social media and positive relationships.

The presentation encouraged students to reflect on their choices, understand the impact of their actions on others, and develop strategies for navigating challenges both online and offline. It also reinforced the importance of seeking support when needed and contributing positively to our school community.

Student Wellbeing

Adolescence is a period of significant social and emotional development. During these years, friendships often become increasingly important and can have a strong influence on a young person’s wellbeing, confidence, and sense of belonging. While friendship challenges are a normal part of growing up, they can sometimes feel overwhelming for adolescents.

Parents can support their daughters by encouraging healthy friendships, discussing respectful communication, and helping them develop problem-solving skills when conflicts arise. Building these skills now helps young people navigate relationships more confidently both at school and beyond.

Thank you for your ongoing support of Year 9. We appreciate the strong partnership between home and school and look forward to finishing the term positively together.

Kathy Phetrasi

Year 9 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 10 Pastoral Care

It is hard to believe that we are already in June and halfway through the Year. Term 2 has been a purposeful time for Year 10 as they have continued to step into the world of careers, pathways, and their early Stage 6 choices. Thank you to the many parents who attended our recent information evening; your engagement and partnership make a meaningful difference to the girls’ confidence as they navigate these decisions. 

Over the past few weeks, students have completed a range of career testing and subject interviews, giving them the opportunity to reflect on their strengths, interests and future goals. It has been wonderful to see the thoughtful conversations happening among the girls as they consider the next steps in their learning journey. Students have also received their subject recommendations. 

A special congratulations goes to Lulu M, Hayley F, and Marcela N on their election to the SRC. Their leadership and commitment to the College community are already evident; and both myself and the Year 10 cohort look forward to seeing the positive initiatives they will bring forward.

The Year 10 Work Placement Program has also been a highlight of this term. Employers have shared highly positive feedback about the girls’ professionalism, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. Many commented on how confidently the girls communicated and how quickly they adapted to new environments. It has been great to see them thrive beyond the classroom and gain a sense of what the working world looks like.

The upcoming Canberra Trip experience is a memorable way to explore our nation’s capital. We wish all students a safe, enjoyable, and enriching time away. Thank you to the teachers who are giving their energy and taking time away from their own families to supervise and support the girls.

Year 10 should feel incredibly proud of their efforts this term. Their curiosity, maturity, and growing independence should be commended. A reminder that full Winter uniform is to be worn throughout Term 3. Taking pride in the Brigidine uniform is an important part of fostering belonging and demonstrating respect for themselves and for our College community.

I wish you all a safe and happy break and look forward to a positive and productive Term 3. 

Jessica Harper

Year 10 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 11 Pastoral Care

As we continue to cruise through the term, our students are truly stepping up, shaping their futures, and leaving their mark on the school. 

Glen Gerreyn Seminar

On Thursday the 28th of May, Year 11 had the privilege of attending a powerful and deeply meaningful seminar presented by Glen Gerreyn. Glen challenged our students to look beyond the day-to-day grind of schoolwork and think deeply about their long-term trajectory. His core message - "Your future is entirely within your own control" - resonated strongly. He inspired the cohort to realise that their current circumstances do not define their ultimate destination; and that choosing a clear direction now changes everything.

A significant takeaway from the session was the importance of cultivating a growth mindset. When we shift our internal narrative from "I can't do this" to "I can't do this yet", we unlock immense potential.

To put these ideas into action, we are encouraging students to create their own vision boards. Visualising your goals daily - whether they are academic, personal or career-oriented - keeps your focus sharp and your motivation high when things get tough. If you haven't started one yet, now is the perfect time to map out what your success looks like!

Year 12 Jersey Orders are Open!

The moment you’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived. Jersey ordering is officially underway!

The link to place an order was sent out to students via email. The cohort did a fantastic job collaborating on the final look, and we are thrilled to share the winning design below. It’s going to look sharp, and we can't wait to see everyone wearing them with pride next year.

• Please jump online and complete your order as soon as possible to ensure correct sizing and timely delivery.
• If you run into any issues with the ordering link, sizing, or payments, please do not hesitate to come and speak to me directly.

Thank you to all of Year 11 for your continued focus and positive energy. Keep setting those goals high!

Rebecca Monohan

Year 11 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 12 Pastoral Care

As we head into the final few weeks of Term 2, the finish line for this section of the year is well and truly in sight. This is a busy but incredibly special time for our Year 12s as they balance their academic preparation with milestone community events.

A major highlight on our horizon is Founder's Day on Friday 26th June. This marks the final Founder's Day our Year 12 girls will celebrate as students at the College. It is always a bittersweet moment, but a wonderful opportunity to celebrate school spirit and create lasting memories together. A massive thank you must go out to our student leaders who have put an immense amount of work into organising and leading this day to make it unforgettable for the cohort.

Speaking of fantastic leadership, we want to extend a huge congratulations to the Year 12 leaders behind the Clothing Thrift Shop in Week 6! The initiative was an absolute success, showcasing not only the community-minded spirit of our year group but also their incredible organisational skills. Thank you to everyone who supported it!

Please take a moment to look over the key dates below as we navigate these final weeks of the term and look ahead to next term's Trial HSC prep.

• Tuesday 23rd June: Mathematics Incursion
• Friday 26th June: Founder's Day
• Thursday 2nd - Saturday 4th July: School Musical, Shrek The Musical
• Friday 3rd July: Last Day of Term 2
• Tuesday 21st July: First Day of Term 3
• Monday 3rd - Tuesday 18th August: Trial HSC Exams
• Wednesday 19th August: Year 12 Reflection Day

Looking Ahead

While the winter break will be an essential time for rest and recovery, it also serves as a critical study window before the Trial HSC Exams which commence in Week 3 of next term. We encourage the girls to map out a realistic study timetable that allows for both genuine downtime and consistent revision.

Thank you for your ongoing support of our students during this demanding yet rewarding year.

Nikki McWhirter

Year 12 Pastoral Care Coordinator