Principal's Report 

R U OK?

We are now quite familiar with this 4 letter question. 

The work of RUOK? in promoting support for mental health vulnerability and suicide prevention has had great influence and impact on Australian society.

We know and appreciate that a conversation can indeed change a life. Being encouraged and empowered to meaningfully connect with the people around us and to start a conversation with those in our world who may be struggling with life, is now a mind-frame that we are increasingly comfortable with. And we have been given very helpful tools to embrace this: How to ask "Are you OK?" | R U OK?

RUOK? Day has become much more than a public health campaign; it is endorsement and empowerment to be the kind of family member and friend we aspire to be. To be curious and interested in the emotional state of our loved ones, friends and colleagues. To be kind and caring for the people with whom we share our days and nights. We have learned that we don't need to be an expert to reach out – simply a good friend and a great listener. 

Our college is characterised by our priority for kindness and care. RUOK? Day certainly affirms our culture, and encourages us to keep building it.

However, RUOK? Day also reminds us to look out for people whose need for help might not be so obvious; to ask a simple question; to listen; to encourage action; and to keep checking in on those who need our kindness and care.

As Term 3 draws to a close, it has been wonderful to see our students and staff engaged in a wide range of academic, co-curricular and wellbeing activities. From sporting achievements and musical performances to community initiatives and wellbeing programs, our college continues to foster growth, resilience and a strong sense of community.

Divisional Athletics

Congratulations to our athletes for their remarkable performances at today’s Divisional Athletics which you can read about on Our Latest Facebook & Instagram Posts page of this newsletter. Best wishes to all students advancing to the regional level.

Staffing Update

We are delighted to welcome Nicole Watkins to the team. Nicole will be teaching Design Technologies.

The Arts

We celebrated our musical talent with lunchtime concerts, the Instrumental Music Soirée on Tuesday 2 September and the Ensembles Concert on Tuesday 9 September. Thank you to our dedicated instrumental music staff and performers.

We’re proud to see our students’ work featured in the 25th Annual Young People of Bayside Art Exhibition at the Bayside City Council Corporate Centre in Sandringham. This exhibition celebrates the creativity, ideas and unique perspectives of local young people and runs from 25 August to 8 October 2025.

Wellbeing 

On Monday, our Year 7 students took part in a Wellbeing Day, strengthening peer relationships, resilience and mental health through Bubble Soccer, a Silent Disco, teamwork challenges, and R U OK? Day and anti-bullying workshops with GOAL Mentors.

On Friday 29 August, students and staff took part in Wear It Purple Day, celebrating diversity and respect. R U OK? Day encouraged conversations about wellbeing and ways to support peers, complemented by Monday's GOAL session activities and a wall showcasing different ways to reach out to friends.

Yesterday, our staff took a break from the classroom for some after-school trivia, enjoying a fun way to connect and support wellbeing. There was great teamwork and plenty of laughs!

Community Connections 

Our students continue to demonstrate the importance of giving back and connecting with the wider community. This week, our Year 11 VCE Vocational Major students completed the final session of the Bayside City Council Intergenerational Connections Program, a rewarding experience that saw students form strong bonds with their mentors, who will be returning for a college tour next week. Our Year 9 Beyond students also wrapped up their Community Connections Program, volunteering at local primary schools, kindergartens and childcare centres. Adding to this spirit of engagement, our Music and Drama students visited Beaumaris Primary School for Arts Day, sharing performances and leading workshops. Together, these initiatives highlight the positive impact our students are making across generations and within our local community.

We thank our parent volunteers for their ongoing energy and support. The Parents’ Association met on Tuesday 9 September to discuss upcoming events and initiatives, including preparations for the annual BSC Ladies’ Lunch on Saturday 18 October. With well over half the tickets already sold, we encourage everyone to secure their spot.

Last week’s lunchtime sausage sizzle raised $260 for the RSPCA, with thanks to Kyle Pinto for organising the event and to our student helpers for their fantastic work on the BBQ.

We wish our students and staff the very best as they take part in Connor’s Run on Sunday, supporting the fight against brain cancer. 

Parent/Caregiver/Guardian Opinion Survey 

A friendly reminder that the 2025 Parent / Caregiver / Guardian Opinion Survey will close on Friday 19 September. We greatly value your feedback and encourage you to take a few moments to share your thoughts. Your participation is important to us and will help shape the future of our school. We sincerely appreciate your time and contribution.

End of Term Reminders

• Students dismissed at 2:30 pm on Friday 19 September; office closes at 3:00 pm.
• Progress reports published Friday 19 September; notifications will be sent via Compass.
• VCE Unit 3/4 practice exams in the first week of holidays (Tuesday–Thursday). Senior Centre open Monday 29 September, Wednesday 1 and Friday 3 October for study.
• Term 4 begins Monday 6 October. Students may wear summer or winter uniform.

We hope the break provides families with the opportunity to relax, enjoy time together and recharge so we can return in Term 4 refreshed and ready for an exciting final term.

Stephen Bourbon

Principal