St Brigid's News

Dear Families, students and staff,

As we approach the end of the first semester, the upcoming Boarders’ Weekend provides a wonderful opportunity for our students to rest and recharge. This four-day weekend is an important tradition in our boarding community, allowing those who live on site to return home, reconnect with family, and enjoy a refreshing change of pace.

With cooler weather and darker mornings now upon us, getting up each day can be more challenging than usual. While maintaining routines and punctuality remains important, it is equally vital to recognise the important role that quality sleep plays in both learning and overall wellbeing. Quite simply, well-rested students learn better.

Research consistently shows that sleep is essential for consolidating learning. During sleep, the brain processes and strengthens new information, improving memory, focus, and problem-solving skills. A good night’s rest not only helps students retain what they have learned but also enhances their ability to think clearly and creatively in the classroom.

This is particularly relevant for our Year 11 and 12 students, who are currently undertaking examinations. It serves as a timely reminder that prioritising sleep is far more effective than late-night cramming. Rested minds are better equipped to perform at their best.

Beyond academic success, sleep plays a fundamental role in supporting physical and mental health. Adequate rest boosts energy levels, strengthens the immune system, and helps the body recover and stay well. It also enhances emotional wellbeing, helping individuals feel more positive, balanced, and resilient, while reducing stress and anxiety.

Importantly, sleep also contributes to safety. When students are well-rested, they are more alert, make better decisions, and are less likely to make careless mistakes.

Even history’s great problem solvers recognised its value. Albert Einstein, for example, prioritised both long nights of sleep and regular naps, viewing them as essential to clear thinking and creativity.

As we head into the long weekend, we encourage all members of our community to embrace the opportunity to rest and reset. Prioritising sleep is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways we can support both learning and overall wellbeing.

Kind regards

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.

Over recent weeks, our College community has been richly engaged in a range of faith-filled experiences that have deepened understanding, strengthened relationships, and provided meaningful opportunities to live out the Gospel in word and action.

As part of the Year 4 Religious Education program on the Eucharist, students participated in a special Reflection Day designed to enrich their appreciation of this important sacrament. Guided by the 24/7 School Ministry Team, students engaged in a variety of reflective and interactive activities that supported their faith development and deepened their relationship with God. This experience helped to consolidate their classroom learning in a vibrant and meaningful way, providing a strong foundation for their ongoing spiritual journey. A parent and child workshop was also held in the lead up to the Reflection Day, providing a valuable opportunity for families to journey together in understanding the Eucharist and supporting their child’s faith development. We keep in our prayers all the Year 4 students who are preparing to receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion in the coming weeks, wishing them every blessing as they reach this special and significant milestone in their faith journey.

Our younger students have also been actively engaged in the liturgical life of the College. The Early Years Liturgy, held in the College Heritage Chapel, was a reverent and joyful celebration. It was particularly special to see our Year 2 students participate with such enthusiasm, supported by the presence of parents and family members. We extend our thanks to Mrs Powell and Ms Ryan who prepared this meaningful experience.

During National Reconciliation Week, Primary students gathered in the Wandju Room. “Wandju” meaning welcome in the Noongar language was an especially fitting space to reflect on this year’s theme, “All In.” Led by the Year 5 classes and their teachers, Miss Curley and Miss Totterdell, the liturgy invited all present to consider the importance of unity, respect, and walking together in the spirit of reconciliation. The Primary community also came together for Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, where students from Years 2 to 6 celebrated under the leadership of Father Matthew. The Year 3 students, guided by Miss Santoro and Miss Dedman, led the Mass with reverence and care, contributing to a prayerful and uplifting celebration.

A significant development this term has been the launch of our renewed Christian Service-Learning (CSL) program. The Year 9 cohort has already begun participating, with Years 7 and 10 set to follow later in the term. CSL invites students to follow Jesus by showing love, kindness, justice, and care through service to others. Developed in partnership with students, staff, and parents, and informed by contemporary research, the program continues to honour and build upon the legacy of MIA MAD. It provides students with authentic opportunities to put their faith into action and to live the values of the College in their everyday lives. Our commitment to living faith in action was evident in the outstanding efforts of many Year 12 students who are involved in Young Vinnies for Mercies. At the recent HBF Run For A Reason, these students braved challenging weather conditions to raise over $700 for LifeLink. LifeLink supports essential social service agencies across Western Australia, assisting individuals and families experiencing hardship. We congratulate our students on their generosity, courage, and commitment to serving others, offering a wonderful example of compassion in action. Check out this awesome highlights package CLICK HERE

Also as part of the CSL program, a group of students recently participated in the Shopfront initiative at St Mary’s Cathedral. In this hands-on service experience, students prepared and served food and drinks to members of the community in need. This encounter provided a powerful opportunity for students to engage directly with others, fostering dignity, compassion, and a deeper understanding of service. We thank Ms Brown and Ms Heys who supported this experience and helped facilitate such meaningful engagement.

Together, these experiences reflect the vibrancy of our faith community and our shared commitment to nurturing our students with experiences where they can serve, lead, and grow in the light of Christ.

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
• Wednesday 10 June - Year 1 Liturgy at 9am- College Heritage Chapel
• Friday 19 June- Primary School Mass, led by Year 4s at 9am- Our Lady of Lourdes church
• Friday 26 June- Spirit of Mercy Assembly at 9am- College Gymnasium

Dr Salvatore De Luca | Head of Faith and Mission

ACC Sport WA – Associated & Catholic Colleges of WA is an independent secondary school sporting association. This year, the association invited 68 Kindergarten to Year 12 Catholic colleges from across Western Australia to participate in the inaugural Junior Cross Country Carnival.

Students from last year’s interschool cross country team were selected to compete in the event. A total of 27 students from Years 4–6 represented St Brigid’s College in this challenging competition. There were approximately 120 students competing in each race.

Our students achieved several outstanding results throughout the day, including:

• Year 6 Girls 2.5km Race – Amelia O: 2nd place (silver medal)
• Year 6 Boys 2.5km Race – Oscar F: 16th place
• Year 5 Boys 2.5km Race – Domenic Me: 20th place
• Year 6 Boys 2.5km Race – Nate P: 30th place
• Year 6 Girls 2.5km Race – Madeleine G: 33rd place

The Year 4 girls also delivered an excellent team performance in the 2km race:

• Scout P – 8th place
• Vittoria M – 21st place
• Evelyn P – 22nd place
• Zara D– 23rd place

This was the first competition we have entered that included a multi-class event, designed for students competing with a disability. Baylee A, from Year 5, competed in the 2.5km race and achieved an outstanding result, winning his multi-class event.

Congratulations to all of our talented students on their dedication, determination, and excellent performances.

St Brigid’s College had three primary teams compete in the West Coast Fever Cup Netball Carnival, which featured more than 60 schools from across Perth in a one-day netball competition.

The Year 3–4 team and the Year 5–6 Yellow team both performed exceptionally well throughout the day, each winning all but one of their matches. Both teams finished second overall in their respective divisions — an outstanding achievement. The Year 5–6 Yellow team narrowly missed securing first place in their division after a closely contested final result against Campbell Primary.

Congratulations to the Year 5–6 Green Team on their outstanding performance at the carnival. The students won all five of their highly competitive matches, ultimately finishing at the top of the leaderboard. Throughout the day, the team demonstrated exceptional skill, teamwork and sportsmanship. Their impressive performance has secured them a place in the SSWA Netball Championships.

Congratulations to Chloe, Lahlita, Nate, James, Ruby, Ella, Abigail, Lilly, London and Harriet on this fantastic achievement!

Congratulations to Amelia Ouwendyk for proudly representing St Brigid’s College at the Primary SSWA Cross Country Championships. The Championships are a highly competitive event, featuring more than 80 primary schools from across Western Australia.

Amelia competed in the Year 6 Girls’ 2.5 km race, demonstrating outstanding endurance and determination. She achieved an impressive 9th place finish out of more than 250 competitors, recording an exceptional time of 9:29.

Congratulations, Amelia, on this outstanding achievement and for representing the College with excellence.

During Week 5, four of our primary teams competed in the School Slam Basketball Competition.

In the lead-up to the carnival, all teams trained diligently to develop their basketball skills and teamwork. On the day, students demonstrated excellent skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.

Congratulations to the Year 3–4 girls’ team, who won their semi-final against Burrendah Primary School to secure a place in the grand-final. Despite a strong performance, they were narrowly defeated by Mundaring Christian.

Our Year 3–4 boys’ team also performed exceptionally well, progressing all the way to the semi-finals against Mundaring Christian.

The Year 5–6 boys’ team competed in the cross-over grand final, where they achieved a fantastic win against Brookman Primary School.

The highlight of the day was the outstanding performance of the Year 5–6 girls’ team in the grand-final against Willetton Primary School. In a closely contested match, the teams went goal for goal before SBC secured an impressive 11–7 victory. The students displayed remarkable teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship, making our school extremely proud. Congratulations to Lahlita, Stella, Madeleine, Olivia, Emilie, Isla, Abigail, Lakshmi, and Macy on their achievement.

Congratulations to all players for their positive attitude, commitment, and effort during both training sessions and games. Every student represented the school with pride and enthusiasm.

Finally, thank you to our coaches and managers — Mr Comito, Gillian Power, Chayan Thananchayan, Alex Agar, Shane Cranswick, Amber Pellicciotti, Mr Hillgrove, and Karen Tuffin — for your ongoing support and dedication throughout the day.

It has been another busy and rewarding fortnight in Primary, with many of our students proudly representing the College across a range of sporting events. Students in Years 3–6 have participated in basketball, netball and cross country, demonstrating wonderful teamwork, perseverance and sportsmanship.

On Wednesday, our 2025 cross country team had the opportunity to compete in the inaugural Junior ACC Cross Country event, where they represented the College with pride and determination. We congratulate all students who have stepped outside their comfort zone to participate and give their best.

This week also marked National Reconciliation Week. On Tuesday, our Year 5 students led our National Sorry Day Liturgy with reverence and respect, helping us reflect on the importance of truth-telling, healing and reconciliation within our country. This year’s theme, “All In,” challenged us all to work together in building stronger relationships and a more united future for all Australians. As a Mercy community, we are reminded of the importance of listening, inclusion, understanding and walking together with compassion and respect.

Please keep our Year 4 students in your prayers as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of Eucharist. On Wednesday, students participated in their Retreat Day, taking time to reflect, pray and deepen their understanding of this special sacrament.

Our Early Childhood students have also enjoyed spending time at Bush School over the past week, taking their learning beyond the classroom and into our beautiful College grounds. Through exploring nature, imaginative play and outdoor discovery, students continue to build curiosity, confidence and a connection to the world around them.

As always, there is plenty happening across the Primary, and we look forward to another full and exciting two weeks ahead.

Ms Christine Padua | Head of Primary Pre Kindergarten to Year 2

Ms Catherine Brunt | Head of Primary Year 3 to Year 6

Year 6 recently returned from an unforgettable camp at Swan Valley Adventure Centre, and the students should be incredibly proud of the way they represented our school. Throughout the camp, they embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm, participating in activities such as archery, the flying fox, team-building challenges, the blackout zone, catapult building, and crate stacking. It was wonderful to see students demonstrate resilience, courage, and a willingness to step outside their comfort zones, all while supporting one another.

Most importantly, the camp highlighted the exceptional teamwork within our Year 6 cohort. Students encouraged their peers, communicated effectively, and worked together to overcome challenges, true examples of leadership in action.

We have also had some fantastic sporting representation this term, with students competing in the School Slam Series Basketball Carnival and the West Coast Fever Primary School Cup. It has been wonderful to see such enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and skill on display. We also enjoyed a very energetic visit from Dodgy Bros Dodgeball, providing a fun opportunity to build teamwork and collaboration skills.

Amidst all these exciting events, Year 6 Green have been working hard to maintain balance across their learning. Students have continued to engage with a range of mathematics concepts, while in English they are immersed in our Talk for Writing narrative unit, The Ice Forest, developing their storytelling through rich language and structure. We are so proud of this group of students and feel blessed to be teaching them!

Ms Moira Cullen | Teacher

Mr Daniel Gallanagh | Teacher

Mr Andrew Hillgrove | Teacher

Term 2 in Kindy has been a truly wonderful and enriching time for our students. We began an exciting inquiry into “Looking After God’s World,” which has guided our learning around sustainability and caring for the environment. Through this inquiry, the children have been developing an understanding of how their actions can make a positive difference in the world around them.

As part of our learning, the children enthusiastically started their very own worm farm. This has been a fantastic hands-on opportunity for them to learn about composting, caring for living things, and reducing waste. They have also enjoyed making their own paper, which helped them to understand the process of recycling in a meaningful and engaging way. These experiences have encouraged curiosity, responsibility, and a growing awareness of sustainable practices.

A highlight of the term was a special incursion from REmida. They provided a wide variety of loose parts, inviting the children to explore, create, and use their imaginations freely. It was wonderful to see the students so deeply engaged in open-ended play. They worked collaboratively to build a boat, design an “egg bazooka,” and take on imaginative roles such as monsters, among many other creative ideas. These experiences supported problem-solving, teamwork, and creative thinking skills in a fun and meaningful way.

We are incredibly proud of the children’s enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to try new things throughout this term. We look forward to continuing this learning journey and sharing many more exciting adventures with you in Term 3.

Ms Belinda Beatty | Teacher

Ms Christine Williams | Teacher

Ms Gabrielle Gribble | Teacher

It's been a busy and vibrant term for our Year 8 students so far! There are lots of exciting things happening both in and out of the classroom, and we’re thrilled to share some highlights.

We have begun implementing the Keeping Safe curriculum, which is designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge they need to protect themselves and others, build respectful relationships, and understand their rights and responsibilities. Alongside this, Year 8s are delving into the “Our Futures” education program, which focuses on raising awareness about the dangers of vaping. These important lessons aim to empower students to make healthy choices for themselves now and in the future.

Also, in PCP, students have also been exploring the concept of neutral peer pressure and how social influence can impact decision-making during adolescence. Through discussions, students are learning strategies to build self-confidence, strengthen their sense of identity, and stay true to their personal values while navigating friendships and social situations. I will also be emailing families some helpful strategies and conversation starters to support these discussions at home.

As we approach a busy period of assessments, it’s more important than ever for students to manage academic pressure in a healthy way. Remember, there are plenty of tools and resources available to help you navigate this time. Make the most of the clubs offered at the College, and don’t forget the library remains open after school as a quiet place to come together with friends, share study notes, and run group study sessions. These spaces are wonderful for balancing study with a bit of social connection.

Our Year 8s enjoyed their first social event of the year with Mazenod College in Week 4, a carnival-style evening that was a huge success! The Mazenod Year 8 cohort did a fantastic job hosting, providing an array of games that encouraged everyone to join in, make new friends, and have fun. Staff were thrilled to see so many positive interactions, rewarding students with raffle tickets and prizes at the end of the night. I’d like to commend our SBC students for their outstanding behaviour and enthusiastic participation throughout the event.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to announce that later this term we will be launching the Year 8 Learning Enhancement Project: Innovate. This project is all about deepening higher order thinking and problem-solving skills, as students move through the design thinking process. The first step will be to empathise with an issue they’ve discovered in the wider community and then brainstorm innovative solutions. We’re in the process of lining up guest speakers who will share their real-world experiences with innovation to inspire our students. Over the holidays, students will begin the Innovate project by finding someone to interview; someone who can present a real-life problem for them to explore as part of their design process.

We can’t wait to return next term and dive into this exciting project together. Let’s keep up the great momentum as we return after the long weekend break!

Ms Lauren Daley | Dean of Students, Year 8

Mathematics is more than just numbers and equations. The skills developed in Mathematics help students make sense of the world around them, from reading timetables and budgeting, to planning holidays, interpreting data and making informed decisions in everyday life. Numeracy plays an important role across a wide range of future pathways and careers, helping students build confidence, independence and problem-solving skills.

Across Mathematics, we structure our classes to ensure students are supported at the appropriate level while also being appropriately challenged. This includes opportunities for extension through problem-solving and enrichment, alongside classes that focus on building strong foundational skills at a pace that supports confidence and understanding. Our aim is to ensure all students can engage with the curriculum and experience success in Mathematics.

A highlight this term has been our Year 9 practical Mathematics project, where students explored the real-world application of fractions, decimals, percentages and measurement through cooking. Across the unit, students worked on scaling recipes, adjusting quantities and calculating cooking and preparation times. This culminated in a hands-on cooking lesson, where students applied their learning in a meaningful and engaging way. It was fantastic to see students making connections between Mathematics and everyday life while growing in confidence along the way.

In Years 11 and 12, students have continued to focus on developing strong problem-solving and reasoning skills as they prepare for future pathways beyond school. We have also loved seeing students regularly attending Maths Club, where they collaborate, challenge themselves and support one another in their learning.

It has been a wonderful start to the year in Mathematics, and we look forward to continuing to build students’ confidence, curiosity and success throughout 2026.

Ms Sarah Pontre | Head of Learning, Maths

The Inaugural AISWA Future Footprints Yaabin Bidi Leadership Expo, held at Curtin University was a meaningful and engaging day, bringing students together to connect, learn, and grow through leadership, culture, and future focused opportunities. There were around 30 businesses and organisations set up, including TAFE, Universities, Police Force, Army, and other real career pathway businesses.

Guest speaker included Lanie Haerewa Founder of Young Yarnz, Jenna Wood, Associate Professor of Aboriginal education Murdoch Uni, Scott Wilson creator of Indigeverse (the only comic book that stars Indigenous Australian characters), West Coast Eagles AFL player Malakai Champion, and the Welcome to Country by inspiring elder Uncle Nick Abraham.

A great day out for our Boarders.

Studying music is a great way to build confidence, express yourself, improve memory, regulate your nervous system and lower stress and anxiety.

At St Brigid’s College, we offer a range of music lessons through our Instrumental Programme including Voice, Piano, Strings, Guitar, Drums / Percussion and Clarinet.

Semester Two Instrumental Programme Enrolments are now open! Click here to access the enrolment form.

To get to know our tutors, we are starting our Instrumental Tutors profiles. This week, we have the spotlight on Piano and Strings Tutor, Amadea Foss:

Amadea Foss graduated from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts in 2022 with a Bachelor of Music (Classical Performance) under the tutelage of Paul Wright.

She has performed with various ensembles including Perth Symphony Orchestra, Cygnus Arioso and The West Australian Opera Company. She has also recorded for artists such as Ethan French, LMDNA, Amy Manford and most recently in the TV series The Twelve starting Sam Neil.

Amadea has been teaching at her private studio and various schools since 2017 and accompanying St Brigid’s choirs since 2021.

The Parent Forum event of the Year is back on and this year, it's all about DJ Bingo! The SBC Parent Forum present, a blast from the past and groovy DJ Bingo Music Night. Gret ready to dance the night away to the unforgettable beats of the 70s, 80s and 90s. Friday 24 July 2026, at the Kalamunda Hotel from 6:30pm to 10pm. Tickets will be on sale soon!

As you enter the campus, you may have noticed the engraved pavers forming the Wagyl (rainbow serpent) in front of the Main Administration Building.

We are pleased to offer our community the opportunity to extend the Wagyl by purchasing a personalised paver. Your name can be engraved on a paver and become a permanent feature of the College grounds. Each paver will cost $110.

If you would like to be part of this initiative, please download the form HERE and submit your engraving details along with payment to the accounts office by Monday, 22 June 2026.

The College will schedule installation of the extension later this year.

If you have any questions, please contact us at communityrelations@stbrigids.wa.edu.au.

• If your child was born between July 2022 and June 2023, they’re eligible for Kindergarten in 2027.
• If your child was born between July 2023 and June 2024, they’re eligible for Pre Kindergarten in 2027

If you have a little one ready for Kindergaten in the next two years, you may have some queries and thoughts about the Enrolment Process. We invite our parent community to contact Patty Majko, our College Registrar, for further enrolment details. Early enrolment helps schools plan classes and supports a smooth start for your child.

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

Our Annual Memorial Mass and Alumni Tour is set for October 30. Invitations and trybooking details will be mailed out to all alumni from these years:

• 2016
• 2006
• 1996
• 1986
• 1976 and earlier, our “Golden Girls”;

at the end of June. Alumni updates and information can be found here on our College website.

It's time to get in touch with your old classmates, share the news and save the date. If you think the College may not have your current details, you can send up an update through the website page as well (just scroll down till you get to the update your details form) We look forward to once more seeing our Golden Girls and graduates on the ground of St Brigid's College.

Catholic School Parents WA invites all members to play an active part in guiding our work by submitting any motions for consideration at the upcoming AGM on 23rd June 2026.

The community is encouraged to consider nominating for the CSPWA Board, or perhaps to nominate someone whose commitment and perspective would strengthen our mission of supporting families in Catholic education across Western Australia.

It is a priority of the CSPWA to ensure that parent voice remains strong, representative, and future‑focused.

UWA Revision and Exam Preparation Courses with the Exam Experts are available in Week 1 of the July School Holidays - Monday 6th July to Friday 10th July, to help prepare your students for their Year 12 exams.

Your students can live and study at UWA for the week. Don't miss this unique opportunity to provide your students with real-world experience of both univeristy life and learning.

At $220 for a 10-hour subject revision, these courses provide incredible value and give students the opportunity to experience student life at UWA.

Your students will have access to some of WA's most experienced revision and exam preparation teachers and will leave our courses feeling confident to tackle exams.

Students can attend the classes during the day, attend online by watching the live stream, or for the full immersive Uni life experience can stay in on campus accommodation for the week at the exclusive Luxury Wonil Hotel (at a special discounted price). Accommodation places are limited and fill up fast so students are encouraged to plan their travel and enrol early to avoid disappointment.

Students who cannot join us at UWA, can enrol and participate in the classes online via live streaming.

Enrol online: https://www.theexamexperts.com.au/

Accommodation at UWA: Subsidised, supervised accommodation with breakfast and dinner available at UWA. Add this to your booking when enrolling online.

The Purposeful Leaders Program is an 8-module online course, designed for young women aged 15-18, with many of the topics covered flagged by the World Economic Forum as essential skills for modern leadership.

Students learn through short, high-quality videos presented by Claire Seeber and Emma Burdett, both experienced facilitators with over 15 years in leadership and career development.

• Self-paced and flexible – complete it in two weekends or over the school term.
• Interactive activities, short quizzes, and downloadable exercises.
• Designed to be completed solo or with a friend, because leadership grows through collaboration.
• Students receive a certificate when all eight modules are complete.

The Purposeful Leaders Program is an online program and is accessible to every young female leader aged 15 to 18 across WA. More information about the program can be found here

Help your teen take the next step towards their brighter future. Join us on Wednesday 3rd June, 5:30pm – 7:30pm.

There are hundreds of study choices for school leavers. Murdoch University is there to help families and future students navigate this exciting chapter by providing all the information you need to guide them through senior secondary years and beyond.

Parent & Supporters Information Evening will cover:

• Course options
• Understanding ATAR
• Application processes
• Fees and scholarships
• Much more!

Registrations are essential and can be made by selecting your session via the links below:

• Year 9 & 10 session
• Year 11 & 12 session