Department News

The Music Department

Our End of Year Music Showcase is on Friday 29th Nov at 7pm in Cullen Hall. All our ensembles are busily preparing for the performance. Each ensemble will be presenting one or two items as well a piece from each elective music class. This year we will feature our new Handbells ensemble as well as our string, flute, clarinet and guitar ensembles, Open and College Orchestra, Choir and A capella group. The students are looking forward to sharing what they have been learning and rehearsing! 

Tickets for the show go on sale Monday 18th Nov at 8am from trybooking. Adults $10 and Concession/Child $5. We hope you can make it!

On 23rd October our Year 9 and 10 elective classes had their recital night. Each student performed a piece for their assessment task and we had a array of different genres and instruments. As Synan Hall is currently the library, we created a Jazz Lounge vibe which I think both performers and audience enjoyed. Thanks to Ms Lau for her creative vision! Congratulations to all the students who performed on the night. There has been a huge improvement in their confidence and performance skills since the beginning of the year. 

On 28th November our a capella group will be representing Brigidine College at the Sydney Catholic Schools Network Festival which will be held at Marist Catholic College Penshurst. The students will be performing their Eisteddfod winning performance of Red Desert by 5 Seconds of Summer led by Mia Sergio our choir leader. Good luck to all the students! I’m sure it will be a wonderful performance that we are all proud of.

PDHPE 

Term 4 has been an action-packed and rewarding time for PDHPE students from Years 7 to 10. With formal assessments now completed in personal development and health, students are delving into a variety of engaging health topics in their theory classes. 

A highlight this term is the return of our aquatics program, an exciting opportunity that takes students beyond the classroom and into the pool. Our dedicated PDHPE staff have coordinated a dynamic program at the impressive Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Zetland, where students are making use of both indoor and outdoor pools. With the warmer weather, this program has been a fantastic addition to Term 4, offering students a refreshing and active way to enhance their swimming and promote fitness, water confidence, and aquatic skills. We’re looking forward to many more engaging sessions and seeing our students grow in confidence and fitness. 

Our Year 10 PASS elective students were challenged with a unique assessment task this semester, combining technology with athletic skill development. Using slow-motion applications like SloPro or Slow Motion Video FX, students filmed themselves performing a crouch start for a 100m sprint, capturing the details of their initial sprint phase. They then watched footage of Usain Bolt’s 100m sprint to analyse and compared their own technique to that of a world-class sprinter, highlighting similarities and identifying areas for improvement.

Following this, students recorded a second attempt to apply their learning and enhance their performance. This task aligned well with the ‘Enhancing Performance’ unit, which emphasises the role of technology in advancing athletic skills, encouraging students to use real-time feedback to improve.

Student reflections on the 10 PASS assessment: 

The Term 4 PASS assessment was my favourite task to complete this term. I enjoyed the balance between research and creativity. Analysing Usain Bolt’s crouch start and describing the execution of a crouch start was fun and insightful. I filmed my demo on my iPhone and edited it in iMovie, including voiceovers and text. Through this task, I realised the importance of proper technique in a crouch start for the most successful sprint. The task also included researching technological advancements in a chosen sport. As a swimmer, I was keen to focus on the evolution of swimming goggles. I explored current models on the market, predicted future developments, and designed my own concept for an advanced pair of goggles.

Alara Sharkey - 10 PASS

This term, we participated in a physical assessment task where we learnt how to complete a crouch start for a 100m sprint and compared ourselves to the GOAT  himself, Usain Bolt. My friends Sophie and Martiya helped me capture in Slow-Motion, my crouch start before learning from Usain Bolt and then again after watching his crouch start video. I had to make adjustments to my body, arms and head, for a more balanced and powerful start and had lots of fun with them. I enjoyed the assessment task very much, as we got to run around, film with our friends and create a slideshow on interesting things like Usain Bolt, a proper crouch start and future advances in technology. For any girls in Year 8, looking for electives, I recommend PASS, it is my favourite subject because it keeps me fit and I can have lots of fun.  

Faye Moutopoulos - 10 PASS

Scarlet Georgallis - 10 PASS

Jasmine Glasgow  - 10 PASS

This term also saw our Stage 5 PASS 100-Hour and 9 PASS 200-Hour students participating in Stand Up Paddle Boarding, combining balance, core strength, and coordination in a fun outdoor environment at Malabar Beach, as well as Beach Volleyball at Coogee Beach and Rock Climbing.  Meanwhile, our 10 PASS 200-Hour class focused on fitness fundamentals, aiming to improve overall strength and endurance through varied workouts.

Our Year 11 PDHPE and CAFS students have officially embarked on their HSC studies, beginning their final year assessments. We wish them all the best as they tackle this exciting and important phase of their school journey.

Vanessa Culhane

Head of PDHPE

Languages

Term 4 has been extremely busy in the Languages department. Year 8 students have been preparing for their final task-a one on one speaking interview with their teacher. This is a fantastic opportunity for the students to showcase all of the skills they have acquired throughout the year. Years 9 and 10 Italian classes have also prepared oral presentations and responses to interview style questions.  The interview scenario is an excellent rehearsal for those Year 10 students who will be continuing with Italian in Year 11, as this is similar to what is required in the HSC. Our Year 11 Italian Continuers students have now commenced the HSC course and are working diligently. It is a great time to now shine a spotlight on those very Year 11 students and gain an insight into their thoughts and motivations as they begin their HSC journey. 

Congratulations to all of our students on a most enjoyable and productive term and year!

Student Name: Coco Collins

Which subjects are you studying for your HSC?

Italian continuers, Drama, PDHPE, Maths Standard, English Standard & SOR1

Why did you choose Italian?

I originally actually chose Beginners French although as I had been learning Italian for 2 years beforehand I stayed in the class and decided to keep it and for me it was a very rewarding subject.  I felt as though my improvement in the subject was the main priority and that it was a clear path to improve.

What have you enjoyed most about learning Italian this year?

This year my favourite part of Italian has been learning the tenses to do with the language such as imperfect and the subjunctive.

What have been the challenges in learning Italian?

The challenges have been keeping Italian in the front of my mind, although I am passionate about Italian sometimes I do leave it as a last thing to do.

What have you learned about the Italian language and culture through your study?

Through my study of the Italian language I have learned just how influential Italian culture really is from food to cars to fashion to history. Italian culture surprises me and interests me to learn more at every turn.

Have you been to Italy? Would you like to travel there? What would you like to see?

I have been to Italy 2 times now both times with family members of mine, although if i am lucky enough to travel there again i would love to speak the language with more italian speakers and immerse myself in the culture. 

Would you recommend Italian to other students?

I would definitely recommend Italian to other students especially if they are feeling stuck with subjects they don’t feel like they are getting much out of .  Learning Italian is rewarding, fascinating and a chance to understand and see the world from a different perspective.

What advice would you give students beginning their Year 11 HSC studies?

As I’ve just finished Year 11, looking back I would tell an upcoming year 11 student to 

1. Pick subjects that really interest them and that they like not to think about the HSC just about themselves
2. Year 11 is a year to help you practice so don’t stress if you feel low coming out of an exam it’s the best way to look back and reflect
3. Still have fun don’t cancel out your whole schedule for study

Student Name: Isabella Larbalastier

Which subjects are you studying for your HSC?

Maths Ext 1, History Extension 1, SOR II, English ADV, Math ADV, Italian Continuers. Ancient History 

Why did you choose Italian?

Language has been an important part of my life as I am part of a multilingual family, thus the Italian course offered me another opportunity to learn another language, immerse myself in a new culture and aid my development in the languages I speak at home (Czech and English). I also chose Italian because of my love of travelling, as Italian would enable me to communicate effectively in Italy and possibly enable me to live and work in Italy! 

What have you enjoyed most about learning Italian this year?

I have enjoyed many aspects of learning Italian including improving my speaking and listening skills whilst also learning new tenses such as the gerund, imperfect past and subjunctive. Moreover, the many textbook topics have provided me a deeper insight into the history and Italian culture which has been eye-opening in gaining a holistic understanding of the topic. For instance, the topic “Italians throughout the world”.

What have been the challenges in learning Italian?

One of the greatest challenges is learning and above all remembering new vocabulary and the various tenses which are usually overlooked in the English language. 

(However key to overcoming these challenges is to constantly revise and to test oneself frequently on these new areas)    

What have you learned about the Italian language and culture through your study?

Through my study of Italian, I have gained a holistic understanding of the Italian language and culture. As the textbook topics have touched on the cuisine, fashion and lifestyles of Italians, providing an insight into the true heart of Italian people. As a class, we have also focused on speaking more authentic Italian through practising hand gestures and new idioms such as fare bella figura. 

Have you been to Italy? Would you like to travel there? What would you like to see?

I had a wonderful trip to Italy last year where I visited Rome and Milan, however I would love to visit Italy soon, as I would like to visit Florence, Naples and Venice. This is largely because I have always admired the wonderful architecture and cuisine of Florence and Venice. Whilst in Naples, I would be able to see the historical site of Pompeii which has always been a dream of mine. 

Would you recommend Italian to other students?

I would recommend other students to study Italian as it unlocks a door into a new world of understanding, culture, skills and language. Which can be beneficial for future opportunities such as being able to travel countries with ease and in creating international friendships. 

What advice would you give students beginning their Year 11 HSC studies?

If commencing Italian Beginners or Italian Continuers I would highly recommend buying a study book which would be designated to new vocabulary learnt, interesting phrases and other aspects of the Italian course which may be useful for future exams or becoming a true authentic Italian! 

Also, Year 11 is a huge stepping stone from Year 10, so I recommend taking it day by day and above all creating more memories with your friends !! 

Student Name: Maya McCarthy

Which subjects are you studying for your HSC?

Maths Ext 1, Maths Adv, SOR I, Italian Continuers, PDHPE, Chemistry, Biblioteca, seven sisters

Why did you choose Italian?

I chose Italian in Year 9 because over the past 2 years in Year 7 and 8 I really enjoyed learning Italian. I really like the idea of learning another language and one day in the future being able to go to Italy and speak Italian when I am over in Italy because I hope I can speak when I am over in Italy.

What have you enjoyed most about learning Italian this year?

I really like having a small class for Italian, because it enhances our learning and brings us all closer together. I love coming to Italian classes as they are fun and learning Italian always feels valuable as I know I will be able to use it in the future.

What have been the challenges in learning Italian?

The challenges have been keeping Italian in the front of my mind and not forgetting valuable stuff I have learnt.

What have you learned about the Italian language and culture through your study?

I have learnt what an amazing country Italy is and all about history and culture.  

Have you been to Italy? Would you like to travel there? What would you like to see?

I went to Italy last year for 3 weeks with my family. I went to an Italian language school in Bologna to improve my Italian. It was an amazing experience, I loved experiencing the culture, seeing the sights and living like a local Italian for 3 weeks. I also went to Rome, Florence and Venice and in the future I would love to go back to Italy with my friends and visit other parts of Italy.

Would you recommend Italian to other students?

I would definitely recommend Italian to other students. I believe that learning another language is an amazing skill to have and I think Italian is a very different subject to all the other HSC subjects and it is good to study a variety of subjects.  

What advice would you give students beginning their Year 11 HSC studies?

Year 11 is a practice for year 12, so don't stress too much. Get a feel for all your subjects to see which ones you do and don't like, and most importantly, have fun!!

Student Name: Mia Sergio

Which subjects are you studying for your HSC?

Maths Extension 2, English Advanced, SOR II, Italian Containers, Music 1, Drama.

Why did you choose Italian?

I have been learning Italian since primary school and have loved it ever since, so I thought that taking it in high school would be perfect. I also would love to go to Italy one day to not only see the country for itself and its beauty, but to visit family and be able to communicate with them. 

What have you enjoyed most about learning Italian this year?

We have looked really deep into Italian culture, which has been very interesting and what has been the best part for me. I also think developing how I can talk about the world around me has been amazing since it is the most relatable and what I can understand well. 

What have been the challenges in learning Italian?

It’s quite easy to forget things we have done in the past, so keeping up with the new things we learn as well as what we have done previously is difficult. 

What have you learned about the Italian language and culture through your study?

I have learnt many new things about Italian culture, including learning a lot of new traditions that Italians have during different times of the year, learning about different regions and how they differ from one another, and learning about how Italian culture influences the rest of the world, even here in Australia.

Have you been to Italy? Would you like to travel there? What would you like to see?

I have never been, but I would absolutely love to go. I would love to see Rome, Venice, and Milan, as well as places on the coast where the beautiful beaches are. 

Would you recommend Italian to other students?

100%! Languages are an amazing skill to have, and knowing a language different to your own allows you to learn new things and to have new opportunities. It’s also perfect for travelling and being able to communicate with people! Once you learn one language it becomes easier to learn others.

What advice would you give students beginning their Year 11 HSC studies?

Use Year 11 as a learning experience for what works for you! See what you like and do not like, as well as study habits that work well for you. Don’t stress about it! Find balances between study and hobbies, and make sure to not push yourself too hard and away from your friends, everyone of your friends is in the same boat, so make sure to be supportive! Most of all, have fun! You will get close to people you might not have even talked to before, so begin the year with open eyes and arms and you will have an amazing time! 

Student Name: Evie Windsor

Which subjects are you studying for your HSC?

Italian Continuers, Math Standard, English Advanced, Community and Family Studies, Biology, SOR I

Why did you choose Italian?

I think it’s a great skill to know a second language. It allows for many opportunities to travel and meet new people. It’s also quite different from other subjects and allows for a change in the routine at school.

What have you enjoyed most about learning Italian this year?

Being able to have conversations in class, understanding clips and audios in Italian, learning about culture

What have been the challenges in learning Italian?

There are many concepts to learning Italian which makes it difficult and sometimes hard to keep up with.

There are lots of important things to remember which can be stressful during exam time. 

What have you learned about the Italian language and culture through your study?

Each city in Italy is unique! Every place is renowned for their own speciality, proving Italy to be a country of culture, famous for many things. 

Have you been to Italy? Would you like to travel there? What would you like to see?

I visited Rome and Positano in Italy in 2018, long before I started learning the language. 

Would you recommend Italian to other students?

Absolutely, learning a language is an amazing opportunity that doesn’t come around very often! It is a challenge but definitely worth it in the long run when you travel the world! While you learn, you make special friendships and memories and develop a skill that you can show off to your friends and family! 

What advice would you give students beginning their Year 11 HSC studies?

This year will seem difficult and stressful at times, but the friendships you’ve made throughout the years and the memories you have are so much more important that the mark you get! This is all a learning process and no matter what you can do anything you want to do! 

Thank you.

Janine Christofides

Head of Languages