St Brigid's News

Students who attend the College every day achieve more. I encourage all families to value every learning day by ensuring their child is in class. Our teaching staff is dedicated to delivering a rich and meaningful curriculum through engaging and challenging learning experiences. We aim to ignite students’ curiosity, satisfy their thirst for knowledge, and inspire their imaginations.

When attendance falls below 80 percent, a student is considered at educational risk. The table below shows how even small amounts of missed school can accumulate over time and significantly affect long‑term learning.

Higher attendance is directly linked to higher achievement. By attending school every day, your child learns more efficiently and develops a vital sense of belonging within the College community.

Legal Requirements and Wellbeing

Western Australian law requires all school-aged children to attend school every day until the end of the year they turn 17.5 or 18 years old.

At St Brigid’s College, there is a strong recognition that genuine illness does occur. When a child is unwell, staying home protects their own wellbeing and helps safeguard the health of the wider school community. Absences for legitimate health reasons are fully supported, and families are encouraged to communicate these promptly so the College can continue to monitor and support each student’s learning pathway.

Holiday Planning

To minimise disruption, please plan holidays during scheduled school breaks. If you intend to take a holiday during term time, please notify me in writing. Please note:

• Recreational holidays during term time are not endorsed by the College. These absences are recorded as unapproved leave.

Support and Communication

Please consider the impact on learning carefully before planning travel during term time. If you wish to apply for extended leave, please email me directly at parker.veronica@stbrigids.wa.edu.au with the specific details and dates.

If your child is unable to attend school for any reason, please notify the College as soon as possible via:

• Email: StudentReception@stbrigids.wa.edu.au
• Phone: 9290 4256
• In Person: Visit Student Reception

A Partnership for Attendance

We view education as a partnership. If you are having trouble getting your child to school, please contact their Class or Homeroom Teacher. They can provide tailored strategies and support to help re-engage your child with their learning.

Building Strong Routines

Consistent rules and rituals support student wellbeing and engagement. To encourage a positive attendance habit, we recommend the following daily routines:

• Set consistent times for going to bed and waking up.
• Prepare early by having the uniform and school bag ready the night before.
• Establish a dedicated time for daily homework.
• Speak positively about school and its opportunities.
• Stay firm: Ensure your child attends every day, including birthdays and the final days of term.

Condolences

Our heartfelt condolences are extended to Mrs Jo Cunningham and her family on the recent passing of her mother in New Zealand, to our student Katie O and her family on the passing of her father, and also to our student Evie C and her family on the passing of her mother after a battle with cancer. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

We hold them in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Mrs Veronica Parker | Principal

All families are warmly invited to join us in the College Chapel for our weekly celebration of Mass, which will continue next year commencing at 8:00am every Thursday morning. We look forward to seeing you there.

It has been wonderful to witness the students’ continued enthusiasm and commitment to our Christian Service-Learning program, MIA MAD. Over the past fortnight, students, supported generously by staff, have engaged in a range of service activities both on and off campus, extending their care and compassion into the wider community.

This has included participation in the Red Cross Soup Patrol and The Shopfront Cathedral Outreach Program, undertaken as part of the College’s ongoing involvement in the Catholic school's roster. As always, our students represented the College with pride, approaching each task with hospitality, kindness and compassion as they prepared and served food and drinks to those in need.

Social justice remains a central focus of Faith and Mission, with both Young Vinnies and Seeds of Justice already active and preparing for their respective conferences and service commitments throughout the year. It is inspiring to see so many students stepping forward to contribute their gifts and energy to these important ministries. The Primary Ministry Team has also begun the year with great energy, actively engaging in service initiatives and preparing for the liturgical celebrations ahead.

Our Project Compassion efforts are also well underway, with the much-loved Easter Egg Raffle returning again this year. A warm thank you to all families who have already contributed Easter eggs and donations, your generosity helps support Caritas’ vital work and brings joy to our students as we approach the Easter season. Contributions will continue to be gratefully received at Student Reception up to Monday of Week 9 (23 March), with raffle ticket sales commencing next week. The raffle will be drawn in the final week of term, with prizes delivered to winners by the final day of Term, on Wednesday 1 April.

As always, families and friends of the College are warmly invited to share in the liturgical life of our community. Please see below for upcoming celebrations and opportunities to participate.

UPCOMING LITURGIES AND CELEBRATIONS

• Weekly Morning Mass- Thursdays at 8am- College Heritage Chapel
• 2026 Easter Egg Raffle- Easter Egg drop-off from Monday 23 February at Student Reception
• Primary School Mass- Friday 13 March at 9am- Our Lady of Lourdes church

Dr Salvatore De Luca | Head of Faith and Mission

As we move through Week 6 of Term 1, our Primary community has been shining with energy, encouragement and house spirit. Our Year 6 students have now completed their in-term swimming lessons, showing wonderful perseverance and commitment to improving their skills. Last Thursday, our Years 3–6 students came together for the Interhouse Swimming Carnival. Congratulations to every student who participated and tried their best, proudly representing their house. The Mercy values of courage, respect and service were evident in the way students supported one another. A special congratulations to O'Connor House for winning the Spirit Bear — your enthusiasm and teamwork were outstanding! The staff even joined in the fun with two competitive teams, much to the delight of the students.

We are deeply grateful to our parent helpers who generously gave their time to support the carnival. Days like these are only possible through your hospitality and service to our community. Thank you also to Mrs Openshaw for expertly orchestrating such a smooth and joyful event.

This week our Year 6 students proudly began their committee work, with every Year 6 student taking part in a committee as part of their leadership journey in the Primary. These committees provide a valuable opportunity to work collaboratively, share ideas and serve the College in a variety of meaningful ways. It has been wonderful to see the groups begin with such energy, creativity and initiative, embracing their responsibility to lead with confidence, teamwork and a strong sense of service to our community.

Tonight, we look forward to the event of the year — our Fairytales Disco! It promises to be a wonderful celebration of community, with families enjoying a sausage sizzle or picnic while our students dance the evening away in true fairytale style.

We are delighted that Story Dogs has resumed at our school this term. This wonderful program supports students in building confidence and fluency in reading by sharing a book with a gentle, attentive companion. On Mondays, after lunch, students have the opportunity to spend 20 minutes reading with Story Dog ‘Duncan’, alongside his caring handler, Dianne. The calm and encouraging environment helps children develop their skills and enjoy reading without pressure.

If your child would like to participate in these sessions, please contact Christine Padua padua.christine@stbrigids.wa.edu.au to register your interest or to find out more about this valuable program.

Mrs Christine Padua | Head of Primary (PK to Year 2)

Mrs Catherine Brunt | Head of Primary (Years 3 to 6)

It has been a great start to Year two this year. We have been learning about technology and how it has changed over the years to sometimes make our lives easier. In science we are looking at different materials and their properties and how these properties can sometimes change when mixed with other materials.

In religion we are looking at Families and how we all belong to different families and that Jesus belonged to a family as well. We wrote some Lent promises looking at ways we can be closer to God in how we treat others. For math we have been examining place value and regrouping using 3-digit numbers.

We have been using lots of concrete materials to help us with this concept and to consolidate our understanding of place value. In literacy we have been exploring imaginative and informative texts and the different features of each. It has certainly been a busy start to the year, and we look forward to the weeks ahead as we get ready for Easter.

Ms Jane Ryan | Year 2 Teacher

Mrs Saroya Powell | Year 2 Teacher

The Year 3 students have made a fantastic start to Term 1 and are already engaged in their learning. They have settled confidently into classroom routines and are showing growing independence, enthusiasm, and a real sense of teamwork. It has been wonderful to see them approach new challenges with curiosity and a positive attitude each day.

In English, students have been exploring the narrative text Mr Big. Using this story as inspiration, they have begun planning and writing their own narratives, designing creative characters and exciting plot ideas. Their imagination has truly shone through as they shared their stories and illustrations with their classmates.

In Mathematics, students have been strengthening their mental maths strategies and are now learning written methods such as the jump strategy and column addition. A favourite activity this term was taking maths outdoors - drawing giant chalk number lines on the pavement and hopping along them to practise their jumps. This hands-on approach has helped make learning active, fun, and memorable.

In Science, students have been working on their carrot growing investigation. They have enjoyed observing changes over time, measuring growth, and recording their findings like real scientists. Students have also been learning to identify living, non-living, and once living, to deepening their understanding of the world around them.

In Religion, students have been learning about Mary and her importance in the Catholic faith. They have also been practising the Hail Mary and discussing ways they can show kindness, respect, and care both at school and at home.

Year 3 have also enjoyed their specialist subjects. Students have shown great interest and enthusiasm in Digital Technologies, Health, HASS, Sport, Visual Art, Music and Italian eagerly participating and developing new skills across each learning area.

A major highlight this term was the Swimming Carnival, where students participated with courage, determination, and fantastic team spirit. Every student should feel incredibly proud of their efforts and willingness to have a go.

With NAPLAN approaching, students have already completed their practice session and now feel familiar and comfortable with the process, helping them approach the upcoming assessments with confidence.

Miss Allanah Dedman | Year 3 Teacher

Miss Sarena Santoro | Year 3

Our Year 4 and 5 students have been busy tooting their recorders as they continue their ‘Recorder Karate’ journey this term! Building on the skills they began learning last year, students have been revising good recorder technique, reading music on the staff, and practising familiar tunes from their Recorder Karate booklets.

By Week 6, many students are already working towards their next coloured belt. When a student can confidently perform the required tunes and complete their accompanying theory work, they earn a coloured belt to attach to the end of their recorder. With nine belts in total, students love seeing their progress grow and their results displayed on the Recorder Karate wall in the Music room.

It has been fantastic to see students showing persistence, focus, and growing confidence as they develop their playing skills. As belts are earned, certificates will continue to be shared on Seesaw so families can celebrate these achievements.

Mrs Catherine Wade | Music Specialist

Congratulations to Maddie G and Amelia O in year 6 for competing in the WA State Junior Track and Field Championships last weekend at the WA Athletics Stadium.

• Maddie G competed in the 100m, 200m, 400m.

• Amelia O competed in the 400m, 800m.

The championships is a very tough competition, and they both did so well. They both set new Personal Bests and racing against some of WA's best U13 athletes.

Our Year 9 students have begun the new school year full of energy and eagerness; I am delighted with the positive start that they have made. Walking around the school grounds and chatting with the Year 9’s, it has been clear that students have embraced the College’s focus of high expectations and consistency with maturity and enthusiasm.

Students are to be commended for the pride they are showing in wearing their uniform correctly and presenting themselves respectfully each day. This sets a strong tone for learning and supports a culture where everyone feels confident and ready to engage.

As students settle into the increased demands of Year 9, PCP teachers and I have been reminding them of the importance of practising strong organisational skills. These skills, such as using the College Organiser, preparing materials the night before, and managing deadlines, become critical for students as move toward upper school and encounter more complex academic responsibilities. Building good habits now will support them greatly in Years 10–12.

In Pastoral Care Program (PCP), our focus for the first half of the term has been goal setting. Students have been reflecting on what they want to achieve this year and identifying practical steps to help them get there. In the second half of the term, PCP will shift to the theme of quality friendships. Students will explore what positive, respectful friendships look like and how they can each contribute to being a better friend.

Finally, a reminder that NAPLAN begins in Week 7. I have spoken with students about the importance of giving their best effort. While NAPLAN is just one measure of progress, it is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their learning and reflect on areas for future growth. I wish all students well for the upcoming tests.

I look forward to continuing to support our Year 9 Students and families through a productive and rewarding term.

Lauren Ierace-Bowers | Dean of Students, Year 9

The Science Department has launched into 2026 with enthusiasm as we embrace the new Science curriculum across Years 7–12. It has been wonderful to see our students engaging with hands-on learning, developing practical skills, and building confidence in their scientific thinking.

Our Year 7 students have made an excellent start to high school science. They have been introduced to scientific inquiry, learning how to design and conduct experiments safely. A major milestone this term has been earning their Bunsen burner licence — an exciting and important step in their laboratory journey!

In Year 8, students are exploring the foundations of Chemistry. They are investigating states of matter, developing their understanding of atoms and molecules, and beginning to examine how chemical reactions occur. These fundamental concepts are laying the groundwork for deeper scientific study in the years ahead.

Year 9 students have started the year investigating sound waves. In a creative and memorable lesson, they used gummy bears to build a model wave machine to explore wave behaviour. This unit has culminated in their first assessed investigation, where students recorded and analysed sound waves produced by music — combining theory with real-world application.

Our Year 10 cohort has dived into Genetics, exploring cell division and inheritance. Teachers have embraced highly engaging strategies, including interactive scavenger hunts that encourage students to locate information, collaborate, and deepen their understanding in active and meaningful ways.

In Years 11 and 12, the focus is firmly on academic excellence. Students have already begun completing their first assessments across our senior Science courses, demonstrating commitment and dedication as they prepare for their future pathways.

We were also thrilled to launch our inaugural “Science Snacks” STEM Club at lunchtime. This initiative provides students with opportunities to conduct exciting experiments that go beyond the classroom curriculum. We kicked off with the ever-popular elephant’s toothpaste experiment and the creation of eco-friendly plastic — a fantastic way to spark curiosity and creativity in Science.

It has been a vibrant and energetic start to the year in Science, and we look forward to an exciting year of discovery ahead

Dr Michalie Ruoss | Head of Learning,Science

As a part of our partnership with ySafe, we have received access to the Online Safety Hub. The Online Safety Hub provides a rich source of information for you to help you manage cyber safety in the home, including engaging blogs, articles, guides and resources. The Online Safety Hub can be accessed using the link below.

https://stbrigids.onlinesafetyhub.com.au/

We encourage all parents to have a look through the Online Safety Hub and the resources available.

The Year 11 Psychology ATAR class has kicked off the term with energy and curiosity! We began by exploring ethics in psychological research, discussing the responsibilities psychologists have when working with both human and animal participants. Students examined why ethical guidelines are essential and how they protect the wellbeing, rights and dignity of those involved in research. From there, we quickly transitioned into the biological basis of behaviour, learning that the brain and nervous system form the foundation of everything we think, feel and do — truly the control centre of behaviour.

To bring our learning to life, students stepped into the shoes of neuroscientists by dissecting real sheep brains. This hands-on experience allowed them to identify key brain structures and better understand how different regions contribute to behaviour. It was an exciting (and slightly squishy!) way to see science firsthand. Next, we’ll be applying this knowledge as we explore the famous case of Phineas Gage, investigating how one accident changed our understanding of the brain forever.

Ms Vivian Bahbah | Teacher

We congratulate three talented students who achieved outstanding results at the National Cheerleading Championships in Melbourne last year.

Lacey B and Zoe H placed first in Level 2, and Danika L secured first place in Level 4—a remarkable accomplishment for all three competitors.

This is an incredible achievement on the national stage, and we are extremely proud to celebrate their success with the St Brigid’s community.

The Lesmurdie Saints Junior Football Club 2026 Registrations are Now Open! Join the Saints Family where training will be on the grounds of St Brigid's College.

For a limited period LSFC is offering 50% off Year 3 to 6 registrations, by using the discount code F0408D40. For more information, please see the information flyer below.

If you're looking for an answer to a question about the day-to-day happenings at St Brigid's College, the College website is always a handy first port of call. All you need to do is either visit the main page at www.sbcl.wa.edu.au OR if you need information about:

College Uniform Shop - click here

Travel Information by bus to and From the College - click here

General Parent Information - click here for the Parent Handbook

How to access SEQTA - click here

College Pool opening Hours - click here

If you would like a click link about something particular about St Brigid's College, let us know by emailing communityrelations@stbrigids.wa.edu.au

As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the wellbeing of young people, St Brigid’s College is pleased to share an exclusive SchoolTV webinar available to all parents, carers, grandparents, school leaders and staff.

Understanding Anxiety and Depression to Foster Resilience (Part I)
📅 Tuesday, 24 March 2026
⏰ 7:30pm
💻 Online Webinar – Free Event

This session is part of a broader series focused on strengthening mental health literacy across school communities. International experts Dr Emma Woodward and Dr Joe Stammeijer will guide participants through key insights into recognising early signs of concern and understanding practical ways to support the emotional wellbeing of both primary and secondary students.

Topics include:

• Understanding anxiety and depression
• Recognising early warning signs
• Supporting neurodivergent children

To register, simply scan the QR code on the promotional material.

On the 26th of February, during pastoral care, we had Mrs White come and talk to us about her life at St Brigid’s College. Her story was very inspirational and helped us discover what the early years of St Brigid’s was like. During her student years at the college, she started as a nervous, boarding Year 7 and ended as a confident, Head Girl in Year 12 (you can see Mrs White's name on our Head Girl Honor Board in the Community Room). The College originated with nuns as teachers, with strict rules but kind hearts. Our Year 7 group are so incredibly grateful that we could have this opportunity to learn about Mrs White’s school life.

Kya D | Year 7 Student

St Brigid’s College will celebrate its remarkable 100-year anniversary in 2029, and we are beginning the exciting work of bringing these centenary celebrations to life. We are seeking enthusiastic members of alumni, school community, current students and friends of our community to join the 100-Year Anniversary Working Committee.

The committee will help shape a memorable year of events, honouring our history while celebrating the vibrant future of St Brigid’s. Parents, alumni, staff and friends of the College are warmly invited to express their interest.

If you would like to contribute your skills, ideas or time, please get in touch—we’d love to have you involved in this milestone moment. Contact us at communityrelations@stbrigids.wa.edu.au for more information

Invitations to this year's Memorial Mass and Alumni Afternoon will be mailed out in June this year. If you have updates to your address or how the College is to contact you please drop us a line at communityrelations@stbrigid's.wa.edu.au

In just over two weeks, the City of Kalamunda Libraries will be hosting their inaugural Kalamunda Readers Festival. It will be an exciting welcome a wonderful range of adult and children’s authors and illustrators to our libraries for talks and interactive workshops. Get ready to turn the leaf of many wonderful books at this event.

For further information and to apply for this amazing opportunity,, please refer to the attached flyer.

Students in Year 10 and above who are considering a future in medicine are invited to attend an upcoming Medical Pathways Information Evening, hosted by St John of God Midland Public and Private Hospitals and Curtin Medical School.

This informal session will offer practical insights into preparing for medical school, including entry requirements (ATAR, interviews, portfolios, UCAT), what life is like as a medical student, and career pathways from junior doctor through to specialist practice. Speakers include consultants, junior doctors, medical students and Curtin’s admissions team.

📅 Thursday, 26 March 2026
🕠 5:30pm–7:00pm
📍 Curtin Medical School Midland

Students must register using the QR code on the event invitation and attend with a parent or supportive adult. School staff interested in learning more about medical pathways are also welcome.

For details and registration information, refer to the attached invitation or contact Jessica Pringle, Marketing & Events Coordinator, at Jessica.Pringle@sjog.org.au.

St Thomas More College will be hosting its Open Day on Sunday, 22 March, from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

This is a fantastic opportunity for prospective Year 10, 11 and 12 students and their families to tour the College, experience our welcoming residential community, and learn more about the vibrant on‑campus living environment we offer. Visitors will also gain insight into the academic, social and personal support available to students as they transition to university life.

If you're in Year 7 and have your sights set on a future in the AFL, make sure you sign up for the Kalamunda & Districts Junior Football Clun Year 7 Female AFL Clinic. More information about this opportunity can be found in the flyer below.