Cohort News

Year 7 Pastoral Care

As we approach the end of Term 4, I would like to congratulate our Year 7 students on completing their final assessment tasks and exams for the year. Their dedication and perseverance throughout this busy term have been commendable.

💡Growth Mindset in Pastoral Care 🧠

In Pastoral Care, we have been focusing on the concept of Growth Mindset. This approach encourages students to embrace challenges, learn from feedback, and persist in the face of setbacks, fostering a positive attitude toward learning and personal growth. It has been inspiring to see Year 7 applying these principles in both their academic and social endeavours.

🎄 Christmas Appeals and Festivities! 🎄

PC Christmas Decorations 

Each Pastoral Care Group has been decorating their classroom with all things Christmas. Students may bring in any decorations - lights, tinsel, ornaments, and anything festive they would like to add. Students will have time to decorate during morning PC sessions and in Week 6 during the PC lesson. Judging will take place on Friday, November 29. The best room will be awarded house points and the winning PC Group will receive a special prize! 

Christmas Mufti Day – Friday, November 29

On Friday, November 29, students are invited to come dressed in Christmas-themed mufti! All we ask is a gold coin donation for our Christmas Appeal, which will support Canice’s Kitchen.

Canice’s Kitchen Appeal

Our College will be supporting Canice’s Kitchen this Christmas. Canice’s Kitchen is a community service that provides support to men and women experiencing homelessness and social exclusion. Year 7 have been tasked with collecting beauty products for men and women to support Canice’s Kitchen this season. Suggested beauty products include:

• Hair Combs
• Hair Brushes
• Lip Balm
• Face Cream
• Hand Cream
• Socks

Here’s a snapshot of what’s ahead for Year 7: 

• Week 7 - Wednesday 27th November: Visual Arts Studio Showcase (Years 7-11)
• Week 9 - Friday 13th December: Year 7-11 Presentation Day 

Thank you for supporting our school in fostering both learning and joy this season.

Kathy Phetrasi

Year 7 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 10 Pastoral Care

Dear Parents and Students,

As we near the end of the term, I would like to share some updates and reminders about the exciting events and key activities happening for Year 10 in the coming weeks.

Year 6 Orientation Day Leadership

I want to commend our Year 10 students for their incredible leadership during the Year 6 Orientation Day last week. The girls were outstanding role models, warmly welcoming our future Year 7 students, guiding them through the day, and ensuring they felt comfortable and supported. Their maturity and kindness were praised by staff, parents, and the Year 6 students alike.

Year 10 Retreat – 2nd and 3rd December

We are excited to announce the upcoming Year 10 Retreat, which will take place on Monday, 2nd December, and Tuesday, 3rd December at the Collaroy Centre. This is a wonderful opportunity for the girls to come together, reflect, and celebrate their growth and achievements this year. The retreat will focus on leadership, teamwork, and building connections as they prepare to step into senior school.

What to bring:

• All cabin accommodation need to supply own linen
• Sleeping bag or top sheet/bottom sheet and blanket
• Pillow 
• Towel (bath towel)
• Bring your own body wash, hand soap and toiletries as this is not provided. 
• Comfortable and appropriate clothing. 

HSC Minimum Standards Testing – Friday, 6th December

On Friday, 6th December, Year 10 students will sit the HSC Minimum Standards Tests in numeracy, reading, and writing. These tests are designed to assess essential skills and are a requirement for achieving the HSC.

Schedule for the Day

• PC Time:
  • Students will have their names marked in their PC class and proceed to Cullen Hall in alphabetical order, accompanied by their PC teacher.
• Test Timetable:
  • Lesson 1: Reading Test
  • Lesson 2: Numeracy Test
  • Recess
  • Lesson 3: Writing Test
  • Lessons 4 & 5: Pastoral activities with the Pastoral Care Coordinator in Cullen Hall.

Important Information

• No Need to Study: These tests assess basic skills; no preparation is needed.
• If You Don’t Meet the Standard:
  • Additional support will be provided.
  • You can retake the tests multiple times in Years 11 and 12 at no cost.
• What to Bring:
  • Fully charged laptop with the required lockdown browser downloaded.
  • Pen (optional) for working out.
• Special Provisions:
  • Approved accommodations (e.g., rest breaks, extra time) will automatically apply.

These tests are not high-stakes, and students will have plenty of opportunities to meet the standards in the future. Our focus is on providing support and ensuring every student succeeds.

Final Reminders

We encourage all students to embrace these final opportunities to lead, reflect, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead in senior school.

Thank you for your continued support. If you have any questions about these events, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Nikki McWhirter

Year 10 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 11 Pastoral Care

Dear Year 11 Students and Parents,

As we move past the halfway mark of Term 4, Year 11 students at Brigidine College Randwick are approaching an important milestone in their academic journey. The first term of Higher School Certificate (HSC) content is well underway, and with assessments on the horizon, it’s a time for focus, reflection, and preparation.  

This period of the school year offers a unique combination of challenges and opportunities. Students have already laid a strong foundation in their chosen HSC subjects and are beginning to deepen their understanding of the material. With assessments scheduled in the coming weeks, it’s an excellent chance to consolidate their learning, demonstrate their skills, and build confidence in tackling exam-style tasks.  

Building Positive Study Habits

The transition into HSC studies comes with increased academic demands, and maintaining a balanced approach to study is essential. Encouragingly, many Year 11 students have embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and determination. However, this is a great moment to reassess strategies and ensure that study habits are as effective as possible.  

• Consistency is Key: Setting aside dedicated, distraction-free study time each day can make a significant difference.  
• Seek Support: Teachers are always willing to assist, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or attend study sessions.  
• Rest and Recharge: Sleep, exercise, and downtime are just as important as study. Maintaining a healthy balance helps with long-term success.  

Assessment Preparation 

The upcoming assessments will test students’ knowledge and provide valuable feedback on their progress. They also serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and resilience. While assessments may feel daunting, they are opportunities to practise and refine skills in a supportive environment. Students are encouraged to stay organised, manage their time effectively, and approach their work with a growth mindset.  

Looking Ahead to Christmas

The end of the term is in sight, and the Christmas holidays will be a welcome break for students and their families. As we finish up the first term of HSC content, this will be a time to celebrate achievements, reflect on the year, and recharge for the months ahead.  

We encourage students to use the holiday period wisely. While relaxation is vital, revisiting content, organising notes, and setting goals for Term 1 next year can ensure a confident start to 2025.  

Final Reminders 

A few key reminders as we move towards the term’s end:  

• Uniform Standards: Let’s finish the year looking our best by adhering to the College’s uniform guidelines.  
• Important Dates: Check Compass regularly for updates on assessment schedules, end-of-term activities, and other key events.  
• Community Spirit: As a Catholic school, this season reminds us of the importance of giving. Whether through College initiatives or personal actions, let’s live out the Brigidine values of service and compassion.  

As we prepare to close the chapter on Year 11 and step into the exciting challenges of Year 12, we are immensely proud of the way our students are growing and embracing their responsibilities. Thank you to parents and caregivers for your ongoing support, encouragement, and partnership.  

Wishing all our families a joyful and restful Christmas season. Let’s finish this term strong and look forward to a bright and rewarding 2025! 

Tony Munguia

Year 11 Pastoral Care Coordinator