The Weekly Bulli-tin

Last Thursday afternoon, I had the pleasure of attending the Northern Illawarra Local AECG Deadly Encouragement Awards, hosted by our neighbours at Waniora Public School.

A huge congratulations to Kai and Tayah, who were recognised with Cultural Engagement Awards. It was wonderful to see their contributions and connection to culture celebrated alongside students from across our local schools.

A highlight of the afternoon was hearing from former Bulli High School student, Nathalia Taylor, who spoke about the importance of connection, believing in yourself and supporting one another. It was a powerful reminder of the strength of community and the difference we can make when we lift each other up.

A special thank you to Leanne Hicks for her support and work behind the scenes, helping to organise seating and food for the afternoon.

Thank you also to the Northern Illawarra Local AECG, parents, families and community members for their ongoing commitment to celebrating and supporting our Aboriginal students. It was a lovely afternoon of recognition, pride and connection.

This week, I enjoyed our first morning tea with the new Senior Student Leadership Team. We will be meeting each Tuesday, providing a regular opportunity to share ideas, discuss student perspectives and work together to continue making Bulli High School a great place to be.

It was wonderful to hear our student leaders reflect on what makes Bulli High such a special school. Recognition, feeling welcome and a strong sense of connection were recurring themes in our conversation. They also came with thoughtful ideas about what we could do even better, including setting realistic and achievable goals for the SRC and exploring ways to make our school assemblies more meaningful and engaging for students.

What impressed me most was their shared commitment to strengthening connections over the next 12 months — connections between students, across year groups, with teachers and with our wider community. They recognise that a strong school culture is built on relationships and a genuine sense of belonging.

I am really looking forward to working alongside this enthusiastic and thoughtful group of young leaders over the coming year, listening to their ideas and supporting them to turn those ideas into action.

Our next P&C meeting will be held on Wednesday 28 October at 6.00 pm in the school office.

We warmly welcome all parents and carers to come along, hear about what is happening at Bulli High School and contribute to discussions about our school community.

Our P&C plays an important role in supporting our students and school, and we always appreciate the ideas, involvement and perspectives of our families.

We hope to see you there!

Mrs Denise James

Principal

We would like to acknowledge country and the traditional custodians of this land who are the Wodi Wodi people of the Five Islands Dreaming, Dharawal Country and the Yuin nation.

We would like to acknowledge the country on which we meet and gather, near Sandon Point, the declared Aboriginal land rich in Aboriginal history and culture.

We thank the ancestors and Elders for passing down their knowledge of country and traditions which is the reason that Aboriginal culture thrives today.

At Bulli High School, it is our responsibility to preserve and respect the integrity of this significant site for future generations.

23rd October - 5th November

HSC Exams

Friday 23rd October

Ancient History Excursion

Davidson Shield Cricket

26th October - 6th November

Year 8 - VALID Testing

Tuesday 27th October

Rugby League

Wednesday 28th October

P & C Meeting @ 6:00pm

Thursday 29th October

Canteen Bandanna Day

South Coast Beach Volleyball

29th - 30th October

Duke of Edinburgh

Monday 2nd November

Ancient History Excursion

Year 10 French Excursion

Tuesday 3rd November

Rugby League World cup 2026 Wheelchair Tournament Excursion

Friday 6th November

UOW Science Day Excursion

South Coast 15 & under Girls and Boys Water Polo

Having experienced education in China and now teaching Mathematics in Australian high schools, I have become more aware of how different education systems shape teaching methods and student learning. Although both systems aim to help students develop their knowledge and skills, I have noticed some interesting differences in how learning takes place.

One difference I have observed is the balance between structured instruction and independent learning. In the Chinese education environment I experienced, Mathematics lessons placed a strong emphasis on mastering fundamental concepts, practising questions and developing accuracy through repetition. Teachers often explained concepts, demonstrated methods and guided students through exercises before students applied these methods independently. This approach helped build a solid foundation in mathematical skills.

In Australian classrooms, I have observed more opportunities for students to explain their thinking, discuss different approaches and apply their knowledge to unfamiliar problems. Rather than focusing only on obtaining the correct answer, students are often encouraged to explain their reasoning and justify their solutions. I believe both approaches are valuable: regular practice builds fluency and accuracy, while discussion and problem-solving encourage students to develop a deeper understanding of Mathematics.

Another difference I have noticed is the level of student participation during lessons. In the Chinese educational environment I experienced, lessons were generally more teacher-directed, with students expected to listen carefully, follow explanations and complete assigned work. In Australia, classroom discussions and student contributions often play a more visible role. Students have opportunities to ask questions, share ideas and suggest alternative solutions, encouraging them to take a more active role in their learning.

My experience teaching in Australian high schools has also highlighted the importance of adapting teaching methods to students’ different abilities and learning needs. Providing clear explanations, structured practice and additional support can help students build confidence, while offering opportunities for independent thinking allows them to extend their understanding. These experiences have reinforced my belief that effective teaching requires a balance between guidance and student independence.

Reflecting on these two educational environments has helped me appreciate the strengths of both approaches. Structured instruction and regular practice can provide a strong mathematical foundation, while discussion, flexibility and independent problem-solving can enrich students’ learning experiences. Ultimately, I believe the most effective Mathematics teaching draws on different approaches to help students develop strong skills, confidence and a genuine understanding of the subject.

“When am I ever going to use this?”

It is a question that mathematics teachers hear regularly, and it is a fair one. The answer, however, might surprise many students. Mathematics is not just something we learn for examinations or future careers. It is already part of the activities students enjoy every day, often without them even realising it.

At Bulli High School, we want students to recognise that mathematics is much more than numbers, equations and formulas. It helps us understand the world around us, make informed decisions and solve everyday problems.

To highlight this, we recently explored three interesting examples of mathematics in everyday life.

Basketball – The Maths Behind the Perfect Shot

Have you ever wondered why basketball players shoot the ball in an arc rather than straight towards the hoop?

When a player takes a shot, the ball follows a curved path called a parabola. The angle of release, speed and distance all influence whether the ball reaches the basket. A shot that is too flat is less likely to drop cleanly through the hoop, while a higher arc can increase the opportunity for a successful shot.

These curved paths are studied in mathematics through graphs and quadratic equations. Although basketball players may not calculate equations while taking a shot, the mathematics helps explain why particular shooting techniques work.

Surfing – Predicting the Next Wave

Living on the Illawarra coast, surfing provides another excellent example of mathematics in action.

Surfers often spend time sitting beyond the breaking waves, watching the ocean and waiting for the right opportunity. They are looking for patterns in the waves, including their size, direction and timing.

Waves have measurable characteristics, including the swell period, which describes the time between successive waves. Larger waves can also arrive in groups known as sets. Understanding these patterns can help surfers make better decisions about which waves to catch.

Surf forecasting websites and apps use mathematical models to predict wave conditions, showing how mathematics can help us understand something as complex as the ocean.

Gaming – Understanding the Odds

Mathematics also plays a significant role in video games, particularly when it comes to unlocking rare items or receiving random rewards.

Imagine a game where a rare item has a 5% chance of appearing each time a reward box is opened. Some players might assume that opening 20 boxes guarantees they will receive the item, but this is not the case.

In fact, if each attempt is independent, there is still approximately a 36% chance of not receiving the item after 20 attempts.

This is an example of probability, a topic students study in mathematics. Understanding probability helps students recognise how chance works, why certain outcomes are unlikely and why spending more money does not necessarily guarantee success.

Why Does Mathematics Matter?

These examples demonstrate that mathematics is not confined to the classroom. It is present in sport, surfing, gaming, music, social media, shopping and countless other parts of everyday life.

Of course, not every student will need to calculate the trajectory of a basketball or analyse ocean waves mathematically. However, studying mathematics develops valuable skills that extend far beyond individual calculations.

It teaches students to recognise patterns, think logically, interpret information, solve problems and make informed decisions.

Our goal at Bulli High School is for students to see mathematics not simply as a subject they have to study, but as a powerful tool that helps them understand the world around them.

So, the next time a student asks, “When will I ever use maths?”, perhaps the answer is simpler than they think:

“You probably already do, every single day.”

Bulli High School Students Bring the Cheers to the Backyard Ultra World Championships! https://www.illawarramercury.com.au/.../wollongong.../...

On Tuesday, some of our Bulli High School students headed to the Kembla Joggers course to volunteer and show their support for Team Australia at the Backyard Ultra Marathon World Championships!

Our students brought plenty of cheers, encouragement and positive energy to the runners as they pushed through hour after hour on the course. Their support was greatly appreciated, with runners taking the time to thank them for their support.

The final two Australian runners crossed the finish line this afternoon after an incredible 86 hours of racing.

Australia is currently sitting in second place, with six countries still racing!

A huge well done to our students for getting involved, giving back to the community and proudly supporting Team Australia!

Dear parents and carers

On October 27th week 3 students in Year 8 will participate in the VALID Science assessment.

The VALID assessment is a NSW Department of Education online assessment available to schools to assess and monitor student learning in Science.

This is a diagnostic test linked to stage 4 outcomes and essential content in the NSW Science Years 7–10 Syllabus. Students will be tested on their:
• knowledge and understanding of science
• understanding and skills in the process of scientific investigation
• ability to evaluate evidence, make judgements and think critically
• ability to access information and communicate scientific ideas.

Students will access the test online via a test platform. This is NOT an open-book exam and students should NOT access any other website, program or app during the test.

The assessment can supplement existing school practices to identify how students are performing in Science and to help teachers tailor their teaching more specifically to student needs.

Students with disability may receive the same level of support during the assessment they would normally receive in the classroom.

The assessment will be scheduled for our Year 8 students on October 27th - Week 3.

A personalised electronic report describing the knowledge and skills demonstrated by your child will be provided in Term 4/Term 1, 2027.

Students will be asked to bring headphones or earbuds that either plug into or Bluetooth to a computer to enable them to hear audio during the assessment. Parts of the test are read to students. Earbuds used for mobile phones or other portable devices may be suitable for use during the assessment. If your child needs earbuds provided by the school, please contact Jo Canvin.

Where required, the assessment platform provides an on-screen standard calculator which can be used for calculations.

Join us as we celebrate 70 years of Bulli High School — honouring the memories, friendships, and achievements that have shaped our community over the decades.

More details to come!

As Bulli High School celebrates its 70th year, we are proud to launch a lasting project to permanently name selected school buildings and significant spaces in honour of individuals whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.

This project recognises outstanding staff, alumni and community members whose service, leadership, achievements and enduring commitment have made a lasting impact on Bulli High School.

Honouring those who have shaped our school is already part of our history. Our gymnasium proudly bears the name Kerryn McCann Gymnasium, recognising Bulli High School alumna Kerryn McCann – a three-time Olympian and two-time Commonwealth Games marathon gold medallist - whose courage, humility and sporting achievements continue to inspire our community.

Now, as we celebrate 70 years of Bulli High School, we have the opportunity to recognise more of the remarkable people whose contributions have helped shape our school's story.

We invite students, staff, alumni and members of our wider community to nominate individuals they believe deserve this lasting recognition.

Complete a nomination using the link below:

https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/QnnAc1QeNW

Together, let's honour the people who have shaped Bulli High School's proud history and ensure their legacy continues to inspire generations to come.

As part of our 70th anniversary celebrations, we are seeking families with multi-generational connections to Bulli High School.

If your family has a history at the school — whether as students, parents, grandparents, or staff across the years — we’d love to hear from you!

Share your family’s story and connection here: https://forms.office.com/r/dwLsSXAMda

We’re especially interested in:

• Families with 2+ generations who attended

• Alumni families spanning multiple decades

• Stories, memories, and school traditions

• Photos or memorabilia you may have preserved

Your contributions will help us celebrate the rich history and legacy of our school community.

Thank you for being part of our story

Calling All Past School Captains of Bulli High School!

As part of the 70th Anniversary Celebrations, we are inviting all former School Captains to reconnect and be part of this special milestone.

We are also hosting a special morning tea for all past School Captains on Friday 27 November as part of our celebration day. This will be a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate your contribution to the school’s history.

Whether you served as Captain decades ago or more recently, we’d love to hear from you!

Register your details using the QR code or at this link: https://forms.office.com/r/aKXY1yRQwt

We look forward to celebrating with you and honouring the leadership legacy of our school community

REMINDER - Don't forget to place your order!

Students can wear their jumper as part of the uniform for 2026 to celebrate 70 years of pride, community and school spirit.

The 70th Anniversary Jersey, is now available for purchase by current students and families, Alumni and the wider Bulli community.

Orders can now be placed online via:

Bulli High School 70th Anniversary Jersey Ordering Page - https://indigowolf.com.au/BulliHighSchoolAnniversaryJerse...

All sizing charts, instructions and reference images are available on the ordering page for easy access.

To place an order:

* Click on the jersey item on the front page

* Select your size and quantity

* Proceed to checkout and pay securely via credit card

* Choose your preferred delivery option before completing your order

* Ensure you receive an email confirmation with your order number and purchase details

The 70th Anniversary Knitted Rugby Jumper is priced at $85 incl. GST.

At checkout, you will be able to select one of the following delivery options:

1. Ship to Address

2. Free Collection at School

If selecting “Ship to Address”, please complete your delivery details and contact number so the correct postage amount can be calculated.

If selecting “Collection”, simply provide your name and contact number. Collection details will then appear, and your order will be available for pickup at the school once delivered.

We are proud to celebrate this milestone together and proud to be Bulli!

We continue to provide additional support for all students with their learning. Students can access The Hub for additional HSC study skills support, through to help with Year 7 homework.

All the new enrolments for Year 7 in 2027 have been sent notification of allocated times and dates for fittings through their Primary Schools.

Just a reminder, all orders for the new Year 7 students need to be placed when these fittings are conducted and not via our online ordering system to ensure we have sufficient stock.

It’s time for the current Year 10 students to order their Senior Uniform for 2027.

You can place an order online at www.bullihighpandc.org.au. Alternatively, students can visit the uniform shop during opening hours or return a completed sheet for delivery in January.

Where possible we would appreciate if Year 11 2027 Senior Uniform Orders are placed by October 30th 2026.

If you are unsure whether you will be returning to school for Year 11 and 12, please place an order regardless without payment. This ensures that we have sufficient stock for next year.+

We currently have a lot of Senior uniforms in stock so we anticipate we will be able to fill most orders placed this term. Any uniforms that are taken home can still be exchanged or returned in 2027.

Pickup dates for part or full orders are as follows:

• Thursday 28th January 2027 9:00am - 2:00pm
• Friday 29th January 2027 9:00am - 2:00pm

There are no exchanges or extra ordering on these 2 days.

For those who can’t make the dates we will be open again for exchanges, collection, new students and additional uniform purchases on the following dates and times:

• Monday 1st February 2027 9:00am - 3:30pm
• Tuesday 2nd February 2027 10:30am - 1:00pm

Thank you.

The uniform shop will be closed for the Year on Thursday 10th December 2026.

Until then our opening hours are:

• Tuesday 10:30am to 1:00pm
• Thursday 1:00pm to 3:30pm

Congratulations, James!

We’re thrilled to share James’ fantastic achievements in high jump!

At the NSW CHS State Championships in early September, James jumped an impressive 1.54m to claim 2nd place!

James then represented Bulli High School at the NSW All Schools Championships, taking on the challenging conditions of a very wet and rainy day to secure an outstanding 3rd place finish!

What an incredible effort, James! We’re so proud of your achievements and the way you’ve represented Bulli High School. Well done!

STATE CHAMPIONS! WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT!

Bulli High School is incredibly proud of Keita and Ava, who represented the Illawarra at the 2026 NSW Junior Rugby Union State 7s Championships in Mudgee over the weekend!

Competing across three days of rugby against talented teams from across NSW, the Illawarra U15 Girls team were crowned the 2026 NSW State 7s Champions!

With 121 teams competing across the four-day championships, this is an outstanding achievement.

Congratulations to both girls on this fantastic result! We are so proud to see you representing your region and showcasing your commitment, teamwork and sporting talent on the state stage

Congratulations to our 15s Boys Basketball squad, edging out Griffith High 56-52, before beating Bathurst High 72-46, then taking down a hot shooting Alexandria Park 85-65, going 3 & 0 at the State Top 20 stage to advance to the State Championships next month at Sutherland.

With Matty 'the Chef' ruled out yesterday & Felix succumbing to injury midway through the day, we were down TWO of our starting guards, but after a sloppy start, we were running like a smoothly oiled machine by day's end, with a special shout out to 'Beau Knows' who earned the late call up & excelled in his role, bringing down boards & banging bodies.

In our win v Griffith it was our defensive discipline that proved the difference, led by 'Chase Strong' whose communication was all class along with the relentless efforts of CMoses who was an absolute terror at the defensive end of the floor. & in somewhat of a slow shooting game by our lofty standards, 'Q' was all class & high scored with 23.

Game 2 & we were down 10-2 in a few 7blinks of the eye. Bathurst, led by the biggest man around & standing at near 7ft, Max Stiff, were the stronger team for most of the first quarter before Peralta checked into the game & immediately upped the intensity. The Year 8 guard simply has no fear! 72-46 v Bathurst. Inspired by Oli, everyone stepped up in this one, including the youngest player & our lone Year 7 rep, Heff, who did a fantastic job running the show & steering our older lads around the court, then when MJ entered the game & knocked down a 3 in the corner in front of the hometown fans, it was one way traffic from there. It was a really balanced scoring effort this game, with 'Heartbreaker' notching a double-double & defending like a dynamo & Peralta & 'the Fountain Mountain' tallying 8 & 6 respectively.

Last game of the day & with a spot at the State Championships on the line, the stakes were high! Alexandria Park rained down FIFTEEN made 3s for the game, but it wasn't enough to blunt our barrage of offensive firepower as we powered on to an 85-65 victory. 2-Way Trey dominated this game at both ends of the floor, locking down on D & clinically dissecting the defence out of on balls & with relentless raids to the ring. Heartbreaker was monstrous again with 18 & CMoses & the Fountain Mountain combined for another 18, though the star of the offensive show in this one was Q, who put on a clinic, starting in the 5, then playing the 1 down the stretch & knocking down a nasty cross-tween-step-back-dribble 3 ball that sent the crowd crazy on his way to 19pts for the game. Henry & Beau again got buckets & were outstanding at putting walls in front of the ball & Mitch was especially impressive on split help, the boards or guarding 1v1 & earned the deserved post game shout out.

On to the State Champs we go!

As we approach our 70th Anniversary next year, we’re excited to celebrate the stories of our former students and teachers and share them with the BHS community and beyond! Our NEW Alumni Spotlight series will highlight your experiences at BHS and the many diverse paths you've taken since graduation or leaving BHS.

We’d love to hear from alumni across all years and career pathways. If you're a former student or teacher, please take a moment to fill out our BHS Alumni Q&A and share your journey with us: https://forms.gle/Q6iw28gdrjYr9Pp9A

We’ll be featuring your Alumni Q&A's on our school Facebook page and in our weekly Bulli-tin. If you’d like to be part of the celebration, we’d love to hear from you!

We can’t wait to feature your story!

It's nearly that time of year again.

PCYC Bulli will be putting up the giving Christmas Tree soon.

You're welcome to donate toys for ages baby to 18yrs or food.

All donations will be donated to Bellambi Neighbourhood Centre, to help with the nearly 1000 families that they help.

All gifts and food can be delivered to PCYC Bulli.

Thank you

Film by Online

Address: Dharawal Country, 17 Ursula Road, Bulli NSW 2516

Phone: 4284 8266

Email: bulli-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Website: https://bulli-h.schools.nsw.gov.au/