Cohort News

"I alone cannot change the world,
but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”
— Mother Teresa

Thank You for an Incredible Year: Year 7 Highlights and 2025 Information

Dear Year 7 Families,

We have come to the end of what has been a remarkable year. I am so proud to see the journey and growth of Year 7 and how well they have transitioned and adapted to high school. This year we have seen immense growth, resilience, perseverance and courage from tackling new subjects and assessment tasks to participating in College events, camp, sports, musicals, and forming lasting friendships. It has been so rewarding to watch the girls grow in all aspects - academically, socially, spiritually and morally. The girls have shown incredible dedication and enthusiasm throughout the year, setting them a solid foundation for Year 8.

As this is also my first year at Brigidine College, I am humbled by the warmth, generosity, and hospitality shown by the students, families, and staff. It has been a true blessing to join the Brigidine community and to be welcomed with such wholehearted warmth and kindness. Thank you for embracing me into the College and for giving me the opportunity to work with your daughters. I have been truly blessed to be able to work with such a beautiful cohort and share the journey of our first year here together.

This year would not have been possible without your support. I would like to sincerely thank all families for their continued encouragement and trust. Your patience and guidance have played a vital role in helping your daughters navigate this significant transition into high school. Thank you for your partnership this year. I look forward to continuing this journey together and supporting your daughters as they grow and thrive in the years to come.

Please take note of the following key dates and reminders for the start of Term 1 2025:

Day 1 2025

Year 8 are expected to return to the College on Wednesday 5th February 2025. We will start the day with a full school assembly followed by a resumption of learning after recess. Please ensure your daughter has everything she needs to begin Day 1 successfully.
Successful preparation includes: having workbooks ready, pencil cases refilled, laptops charged (and repaired if necessary), with any replacement items ready to go as well as a positive attitude in full swing.

Uniform

Students are expected to wear the full College summer uniform.
They are NOT to return to school with acrylic nails or nail polish painted, false eyelashes, additional piercings other than one plain on the lower lobe, makeup or mascara.
Academic brimmed hats are required to be worn to and from school.
Dresses must be knee-length (touching the knee) or longer. As the girls may have grown, please ensure any necessary adjustments, such as letting down hems, are made before the start of school.
Please ensure you visit the Uniform Shop during the school break to get what you need.

Sport

Term 1 also brings new sports options for our students on Thursdays. As PCC, I have no oversight/control over sporting assignments so if there are any concerns, please contact our Leader of Sport (maeve.hurley@syd.catholic.edu.au) in the new year and she will be happy to assist.

Box of Books

For any questions or concerns about Box of Books and resources for the year ahead, please contact our Director of Learning and Innovation (vincenzo.papa@syd.catholic.edu.au) who will be happy to assist.

Timetable / New Classes

A new year means new classes. When it comes to class placements, please note the following:
Timetables will be published on Compass when they are finalised, usually sometime towards the end of the break. I recommend that you sit down and go through the timetable with your daughter. If your daughter’s timetable has an error, please contact our Leader of Administration (matthew.ashton@syd.catholic.edu.au) who will be able to assist you in the new year.
Your daughter's placement in classes is based on a variety of factors including but not limited to:
- academic progress in the previous year
- timetable lines and limitations
- behavioural needs
- pastoral care needs
- any identified and/or diagnosed learning needs
I appreciate that you or your daughter may wish for them to be in classes with their best friend/friendship groups or with a particular teacher in a particular subject, please note that these are not valid factors when it comes to class placements. We do not move students for these reasons and discussions will not be entered into if your daughter is not with her preferred friendship group or ‘favourite’ teacher. If your daughter is unhappy with her class placement, please remind them that they have before school, after school and 30 minutes at both recess and lunch to see and catch up with their friends. It will also help to build resilience and coping abilities.

As you can imagine, many staff members use the summer break to fully switch off from work (and I hope you all get the chance to do the same!) to focus on family time and some well-deserved rest and relaxation. Please note that staff will be unavailable from lunchtime on Friday, 20th December, until school resumes in January.

I want to wish you all a wonderful, safe and joyful holiday season! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I look forward to reconnecting with you all in 2025.

Kindest regards,

Kathy Phetrasi

Year 7 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 9 Wrap Up

As we draw the curtain on 2024, it is a perfect time to reflect on the incredible journey of the Year 9 cohort this year.

One of the standout highlights was undoubtedly the Year 9 camp at Somerset Outdoor Learning on the Colo River. This rewarding experience saw students push their comfort zones, engage in challenging outdoor activities, and strengthen bonds with their peers. Whether it was conquering a daunting high ropes course, navigating group challenges, or simply sharing stories around the campfire, the camp fostered resilience, teamwork, and lasting friendships. The memories created during this time will no doubt remain with our students for years to come.

This year has also been a testament to the hard work, determination, and growth of the Year 9 students. From excelling in their academic pursuits to actively participating in extracurricular activities and displaying the BRAVE values, they have shown immense dedication and spirit throughout the year. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we are incredibly proud of all they have achieved.

As the year ends, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the students, families, and staff who have contributed to making 2024 such a successful and enriching year for Year 9. Your support and encouragement have been invaluable.

On behalf of everyone at Brigidine College, I wish you all a joyful and peaceful Christmas break. May this festive season be filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with your families. We look forward to seeing the Year 9 cohort return in 2025, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities as they step into Year 10.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Rebecca Monohan

Year 9 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Dear Parents and Students,

As the year draws to a close, Year 10 has had a remarkable final chapter, full of reflection, celebration, and recognition.

Year 10 Retreat at Collaroy

On Monday, 2nd December, and Tuesday, 3rd December, Year 10 students gathered at the Collaroy Centre for a memorable retreat. This retreat provided a wonderful opportunity for the girls to come together, reflect on their journey, and celebrate the growth and achievements they’ve experienced this year. Focusing on leadership, teamwork, and building strong connections, the retreat helped prepare the students for their transition into senior school. It was an enriching experience that allowed the girls to bond and reflect on the skills that will guide them in the years to come.

End of Year Pastoral Activities and Testing

The final school week was a busy and productive time for Year 10. Students participated in the HSC Minimum Standards Testing, ensuring they are well-prepared for their senior studies. Mrs Patricia Smith will be in contact if your daughter requires to sit these tests again. Iif you do not hear any news about these tests, this means your daughter has passed the minimum standard testing. The College will receive all results in 2025.

Alongside this, students engaged in various pastoral activities, where they worked together in teams to achieve success and strengthen their bonds. We concluded this day with Year 10 Pastoral Awards. The cohort awards were an opportunity to celebrate the kindness, leadership, and unique talents that make our Year 10 cohort special. The girls firstly nominated people for each of the awards in their respective homerooms and also for the whole year group. Once nominations were in, the girls voted for who they thought best fit these award. The award receipts are below:

Homeroom Awards (3 per homeroom):

Kindness Champion - For the student who consistently shows kindness and support to their peers
Team Player Award - For the student who excels at working collaboratively and uplifting their group.
Most Encouraging Spirit - For the student who motivates and cheers on others in all circumstances.

Aquinas

Kindness Champion: Evelyn Cheung
Team Player Award: Sienna Majewski
Most Encouraging Spirit: Jasmine Glasgow

Brigid

Kindness Champion: Sienna Simons
Team Player Award: Scarlet Georgallis
Most Encouraging Spirit: Joely Menzel

Delany

Kindness Champion: Ruby Pajor & Kate Berman
Team Player Award: Matilda Spencer
Most Encouraging Spirit: Eva Tsonis

Regina Mundi

Kindness Champion: Antonia Fernandez & Honey Hayler
Team Player Award: Evie Bowie
Most Encouraging Spirit: Emily Reid

Winifred:

Kindness Champion: Kiara Marr
Team Player Award: Yianna Kalaitzoglou
Most Encouraging Spirit: Alana Keith

Xavier:

Kindness Champion: Sofia Saurine
Team Player Award: Lara Monforte
Most Encouraging Spirit: Amelia Byrne

Year Group Awards (10 awards):

Positive Role Model Award - For the student who sets a great example through their actions and behaviour: Aurelie Salim
Outstanding Leadership Award - For the student who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and initiative: Sam Stewart
Compassionate Heart Award - For the student who consistently shows empathy and care for others: Ajelen Castillo
Inspiring Growth Award - For the student who has shown remarkable personal or academic growth throughout the year: Priya Carpenter
Inclusivity Award - For the student who ensures that everyone feels welcome and valued: Sofia Saurine
Best Problem Solver Award - For the student who excels at finding thoughtful and effective solutions to challenges: Amelie Thistlethwaite
Joyful Spirit Award - For the student whose energy and positivity brighten everyone's day: Yana Panas
Dedication to Service Award - For the student who actively participates in helping the school or community: Joely Menzel
Shining Star Award - For the student who consistently contributes their best effort in all areas: Mila Boshuizen
Most Supportive Friend Award - For the student who is always there for others with a listening ear and kind words: Claire Godward

Year 10 End of Year Mass and Academic Awards Ceremony

Week 10 culminated in a beautiful End of Year Mass, where we not only gave thanks for the year gone by but also farewelled Mrs. Quirk, who has been a pillar of support for many students. It was a moment to reflect on the hard work and growth that defined Year 10, as well as the accomplishments that the students can be proud of.

The Year 10 Academic Awards Ceremony was an outstanding event where we celebrated the dedication and perseverance of our students. Awards for Academic Merit, Academic Excellence, and Effort were presented to many deserving students. Here are some of the recipients:

Giorgia Aiello – Effort
Ava Azemi – Academic Excellence, Effort & 1st in Course French 200hrs
Mila Boshuizen – Academic Excellence, Effort & 3rd in Course German 100hrs
Victoria Campbell – Academic Merit & Effort
Ajelen Castillo – Effort
Evelyn Cheung – Academic Merit & Effort
Serena Chu – Academic Excellence & Effort
Bethan Davies-Evans - Effort
Alexa Djendjinovic – Academic Merit
Anastasia Dudek - Academic Excellence, Effort & 1st in Course Russian 200hrs
Olivia Freitas Evans – Academic Merit
Abby Harrison-Green – Academic Merit & Effort
Daisy Herr – Academic Merit
Michelle Hill - Academic Merit
Valerie Kurniawidi - Academic Merit & Effort
Jacqueline Liao – Academic Merit & Effort
Sarah Luo - Effort
Caitlin Ma - Academic Merit & Effort
Margaret Ma – Academic Excellence & Effort
Charlotte Mansour – Academic Excellence & Effort
Emily Molloy - Academic Merit & Effort
Faye Moutopoulos - Academic Merit
Katie Ng- Academic Merit & Effort
Ava Pedersen - Academic Merit
Emily Reid - Academic Merit & Effort
Emma Rozea - Academic Merit & Effort
Aurelie Salim – Academic Merit & Effort
Kayla Sani – Academic Excellence, Effort & Top 1% in the Sydney Catholic Schools Archdiocesan Religious Education Test
Meya Scott – Academic Merit
Alara Sharkey - Effort
Skylar Stafford - Effort
Zoe Stavrou - Effort
Amalie Thistlethwaite - Academic Merit & Effort
Eva Tsonis - Academic Merit & Effort
Teagan Weber – Academic Merit, Effort & High Distinction in the Sydney Catholic Schools Archdiocesan Religious Education Test achieving in the top 3%
Sophia Wolfram – Academic Merit & Effort
Katherine Wong – Academic Merit & Effort

Conatus Award Recipients The prestigious Conatus Award, given to students who have maintained a Grade Point Average of 5 across both semesters and achieved an A grade for Effort in all subjects, was awarded to:

Ava Azemi
Mila Boshuizen
Ajelen Castillo
Evelyn Cheung
Serena Chu
Anastasia Dudek
Abby Harrison-Green
Valerie Kurniawidi
Jacqueline Liao
Sarah Luo
Caitlin Ma
Margaret Ma
Charlotte Mansour
Katie Ng
Emily Reid
Emma Rozea
Aurelie Salim
Kayla Sani
Alara Sharkey
Zoe Stavrou
Amelie Thistlethwaite
Eva Tsonis
Teagan Weber
Sophia Wolfram
Katherine Wong

Distinguished Achiever Awards The Distinguished Achiever Awards are the most prestigious of all academic honours, given to students who have maintained a 5-point GPA with an A grade in all subjects. We are proud to announce the following students as the 2024 Year 10 Distinguished Achievers:

Ava Azemi
Mila Boshuizen
Serena Chu
Margaret Ma
Charlotte Mansour
Kayla Sani

Year 10 Dux The Year 10 Dux awards are presented to students who have excelled in all subjects studied throughout the year. These students have been consistent in their academic efforts, application, and enthusiasm in class. We are pleased to announce the following Year 10 Dux recipients for 2024:

3rd to Dux: Charlotte Mansour
2nd to Dux: Serena Chu
Year 10 Dux for 2024: Ava Azemi

Special Awards The Special Awards acknowledge the contributions of students in diverse aspects of College life and celebrate their impact beyond academics. The following students were recognised for their exceptional contributions:

The Philippa McDonald Award – Presented to students who have achieved excellence in their communication of ideas related to a social justice theme:
- Ava Azemi
- Eva Tsonis
Contribution to College Life – This award recognises students who have made a significant contribution to College life:
- Emily Molloy – Open Orchestra Leader
ANSTO Science Award – The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) Science Medals are given to celebrate and encourage success in STEM subjects. Awarded to:
- Evelyn Cheung
Duke of Edinburgh Awards – The Duke of Edinburgh Awards recognize personal growth and community engagement. In 2024, we recognize one recipient of The Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award and seven recipients of The Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award:
- Matilda Hill – Silver Award
- Sarah Luo – Bronze Award
- Charlotte Mansour – Bronze Award
- Faye Moutopoulos – Bronze Award
- Alara Sharkey – Bronze Award
- Zoe Stavrou – Bronze Award
Long Tan Leadership & Teamwork Award – The Australian Defence Force Long Tan Award recognizes a student who has demonstrated leadership and teamwork within both the school and the broader community. Awarded to:
- Aurelie Salim
Australian Defence Force Innovator Award – This award encourages the next generation of innovators, critical thinkers, and problem-solvers in STEM. Awarded to:
- Evelyn Cheung
Kingsford Smith Community Award – This award celebrates the incredible contributions of young people to our community. The 2024 recipient is:
- Olivia Freitas Evans
Student of the Year Award – This year’s Student of the Year exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and dedication in every aspect of her school life. A shining example of the College’s charism, she has shown outstanding commitment to upholding these values across her many extracurricular activities. From her participation in the Cambodia Immersion, where she demonstrated compassion and cultural awareness, to her role as a Year 10 SRC member, she has been a beacon of positivity and encouragement to her peers and teachers alike. Her willingness to lend a hand, whether assisting fellow students or supporting her teachers, is a testament to her selflessness and generosity. She truly stood out during the Year 7 Orientation Day, where she took on a leadership role, running activities and ensuring new students felt welcomed and at ease as they began their journey at the College. It is with great pride that we recognise Joely Menzel as this year’s Student of the Year

Congratulations to all our Year 10 students for their incredible achievements this year. Your hard work, dedication, and growth have been truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing what you accomplish in the future.

A Final Reminder and Warm Wishes for the Holidays

As we wrap up a fantastic year, we would like to remind all Year 10 students to prepare for Year 11 by ensuring you have your senior uniform ready for the first day back on Wednesday, 5th February 2025. Make sure everything is in order during the break so you're all set for a smooth transition into senior school.

With the school year now behind us, I wish all students a very Merry Christmas. Enjoy the break, stay safe, and take the time to relax and recharge. I look forward to seeing you in the new year, ready to take on the exciting challenges of Year 11!

Have a wonderful holiday, and we can’t wait to see you all back in 2025.

Warm regards,

Nikki McWhirter

Year 10 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 11 Wrap-Up: Congratulations on a Great Year!

As the year draws to a close, we want to take a moment to reflect on your incredible journey throughout 2024. Year 11 is often described as one of the most pivotal stages in high school, and you have risen to the challenges it presented with resilience, determination, and a commitment to excellence.

A special highlight of the term was the HSC Stress Management Workshop. This valuable session provided you with practical strategies to manage the pressures of senior study, and it was wonderful to see so many of you actively engaging and sharing your insights. The techniques and tips you learned not only helped you navigate the Preliminary exams but will undoubtedly be invaluable as you step into Year 12.

Your hard work and focus paid off as you tackled your final assessments with confidence, finishing the year on a high note. The dedication you showed in consolidating your learning from the Preliminary course has set a solid foundation for the year ahead. Your teachers have been so impressed by your growth and commitment to achieving your personal best.

As you prepare to take a well-deserved break, we encourage you to reflect on your achievements this year and take pride in how far you’ve come. The holidays are a time to rest, recharge, and reconnect with family and friends. Whether you’re traveling, spending time at home, or pursuing hobbies, make sure to enjoy this time and prioritise your wellbeing.

As we approach the festive season, we wish you and your families a joyful and peaceful Christmas. May this special time bring moments of laughter, love, and gratitude. The New Year brings with it fresh opportunities, and we are excited to welcome you back in 2025 for your final chapter at Brigidine College. Year 12 will be both challenging and rewarding, and we have every confidence that you will continue to thrive as leaders of our school community.

Finally, a gentle reminder to stay safe over the holiday break. Whether you’re spending time outdoors, travelling, or simply relaxing, please take care of yourselves and those around you. We’d like to thank you for your enthusiasm and spirit throughout 2024. Your positivity and willingness to grow have inspired those around you, and we are so proud of everything you have achieved.

Have a wonderful holiday, and we’ll see you in 2025 for an exciting and fulfilling year ahead. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Tony Munguia

Year 11 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 12 Success and Celebration

As we approach the end of an incredible journey, we want to take a moment to reflect on your achievements and look forward to the exciting events ahead.

Celebrating Your HSC Results

We were thrilled to celebrate the HSC results on Wednesday, 18 December 2024, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am on the Cullen Balcony. This was a wonderful opportunity to come together, share your successes, and look forward to the future. We thoroughly enjoyed catching up with the girls and celebrating their hard work.

HSC High Achievers Assembly

Mark your calendars for the HSC High Achievers Assembly on Thursday, 13 February 2025, starting at 9:00 am. This official College event will honour those who have excelled in their HSC exams.

Please remember to wear appropriate smart casual attire as we celebrate your outstanding accomplishments in a formal setting. Smart casual attire can include collared shirt or t shirt that covers shoulders and trousers or skirt.

We are incredibly proud of each and every one of you. Your dedication, resilience, and hard work have brought you to this moment, and we are excited to see where your journey takes you next.

Jon Campbell