St Brigid's News

Dear Families, students and staff,

On behalf of the entire cast, crew, staff, volunteers, and parents, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support provided throughout the rehearsal period and performance season of our College production, The Little Mermaid Jr.

More than 110 students, ranging from Year 2 to Year 12, participated in this remarkable production. The musical was a sell-out success across three performance evenings and served as a wonderful celebration of the Arts, showcasing the outstanding talent, creativity, and dedication of our students.

The staff of St Brigid's College gave generously of their time and expertise in support of the production. Countless hours were dedicated to planning, costume creation, set construction, rehearsals, teaching, and the many behind-the-scenes tasks required to bring the show to life. I would like to particularly acknowledge Sarah Hamilton, Naomi Pulham, and Janine Walsh for their perseverance, dedication, and unwavering belief in the success of this production. Their leadership and commitment were instrumental in making the musical such a memorable achievement.

The support of our parents and extended College community was equally evident throughout the production. Thank you to everyone who supported The Little Mermaid Jr. in any way. The production was a true community effort and a shining example of what can be achieved when we work together in support of our students.

We look forward with excitement to planning our next College musical in 2028.

Parking around the College

Please be advised that parking signage on Glen Road and Catherine Place has recently been updated. We ask all members of our College community to familiarise themselves with the updated signage and to comply with all parking and traffic regulations at all times.

The College strongly supports the important role of local Rangers in promoting road safety and enforcing parking regulations to ensure the safety of our students, families, staff, and neighbours.

We also ask that you remain considerate and respectful of our neighbours when parking in the streets surrounding the College. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated and contributes to maintaining positive relationships within our local community.

Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding.

Lesmurdie Saints Football Club

The College was advised this week that the Lesmurdie Saints Junior Football Club will be relocating to the Ray Owen Oval precinct from the commencement of the 2027 season.

The College has greatly valued the partnership that it shared with the Club since its commencement over 40 years ago.

As the Lesmurdie Saints embark on this exciting new chapter, I would like to extend my sincere best wishes to all players, members, volunteers, and supporters. We wish the Club every success in its new home and look forward to seeing it continue to grow and prosper in the years ahead.

Enrolments

As demand for places at the College continues to increase, we encourage families considering enrolment for 2027 to submit their application now. A number of year groups already have waitlists in place.

Staffing Update

Alexandra England, HASS Teacher and House Coordinator of Docherty, will commence parental leave next week. We extend our warmest congratulations and very best wishes to Alex and her family as they prepare to welcome their second child.

Congratulations also to Verity Clark, who will assume the leadership of Docherty House during Alex's absence. We thank Verity for her willingness to take on this important role and wish her every success.

We are also pleased to welcome Bill Cordner back to St Brigid's College. Bill, a highly experienced educator, will be teaching HASS classes next semester. We are grateful to have him return to the College and look forward to the valuable contribution he will make to our learning community.

Parent Forum

Thank you to the parents who attended our Parent Forum meeting last Tuesday evening, either in person or online. As all Parent Forum meetings are conducted via Microsoft Teams, families who are unable to attend in person are warmly encouraged to join remotely.

At each meeting, I provide an update on developments, achievements, and initiatives occurring across the College. The Parent Forum also offers a valuable opportunity for discussion, and I am always pleased to hear new ideas, feedback, and questions from members of our College community.

I encourage all parents and caregivers to participate in future meetings and contribute to the ongoing growth and success of the College.

Kind regards

Mrs Veronica Parker | Principal

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

Tales After Twilight is back for 2026 and we are sure our Primary students and families are really looking forward to, yet another evening filled with literary wonder! If you have not RSVPed yet please do so at www.trybooking.com.au/DORXW

It's back for 2026 - our annual Dad's Big Breakfast!

Fathers, grandfathers, godfathers, carers, and any significant male role models are welcome to attend with their child or children for a special morning of reflection, connection, and community.

Date: Friday 4 September
Time: From 7.30am
Location: St Brigid's College

The morning will begin with a Father's Day Liturgy at 7.30am, followed by a dad friendly breakfast from 8.00am.

RSVPs are essential at www.trybooking.com/DOWTC

It has been another wonderful fortnight in the life of our College, with students embracing opportunities to grow in faith, learning, service, and community. Across the College, students have continued to demonstrate the Mercy values that guide us, particularly through experiences that have encouraged reflection, generosity, and connection with others.

A special highlight was the recent St Carlo Acutis Excursion, where a group of students had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the life and witness of St Carlo Acutis. Through prayer, discussion, and reflection, students explored how Carlo’s deep love of the Eucharist, commitment to serving others, and use of modern technology to share the Gospel continue to inspire young people around the world today. The excursion challenged students to consider how they too can live their faith authentically in everyday life and be witnesses to hope, kindness, and compassion in their communities.

Another significant example of our community living out the values and commitment to service was the 2026 St Brigid’s Winter Appeal in support of The Shopfront. What an incredible response from our College community. Together, families, students, and staff donated 26 crates and 15 large bags of food and essential items to support people experiencing hardship within our local community. A BIG thank you to everyone who contributed. Your generosity has been truly marvellous and is a powerful reflection of our College values in action. This year's inaugural Longest Line Competition added an extra element of fun and excitement to the appeal. We extend a special thank you to our Primary and Secondary House Leaders and House Representatives, whose enthusiasm, encouragement, and energy helped make the event a success. Congratulations to McAuley House for taking out the inaugural title. All donations were delivered to The Shopfront, where they were gratefully received and will provide much-needed support to individuals and families who need it most.

On Friday of Week 2 our Year 8 students participated in a wonderful Retreat Day led by the 24:7 School Ministry team. The Retreat Program is an important part of our Faith and Mission activities and a valuable complement to the Religious Education curriculum. Through engaging activities and meaningful discussions, students explored what it means to be part of a Community in Christ, supported by family, school, and faith. We thank the 24:7 Ministry team for facilitating such a memorable and uplifting day.

We also remind families about upcoming Christian Service-Learning (CSL) deadlines. Through serving and supporting others, students are able to put faith into action. Year 7, 8, and 9 students are reminded that their CSL requirements are due later this Term while Year 10 and 11 students will complete theirs in Week 3 of next term. We thank families for their ongoing support of this important aspect of our Faith and Mission program.

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, CELEBRATIONS AND DATES

• Weekly Morning Mass- Thursdays at 8am- College Heritage Chapel
• LOCAL CATHOLIC PARISH MASS TIMES

Our Lady of Lourdes, Lesmurdie

Holy Family, Kalamunda

St Francis of Assisi, Maida Vale

St Anthony’s, Greenmount

Sacred Heart, Mundaring

Dr Salvatore De Luca | Head of Faith and Mission

In Term 1, the Year 6 students participated in the Fremantle Dockers' "Welcome to Freo” school program. Delivered during Health lessons, the program focused on developing students' understanding of the importance of:

• Being respectful,
• Being positive role models, and

• Demonstrating resilience.

In Term 2, students participated in the “Let's Be Active” program during Sport. Throughout the program, they developed the fundamental skills required to play Australian Rules Football and gained an understanding of the rules, teamwork, and game strategies involved.

Because the Year 6 students successfully completed the program, we are excited to announce that some Fremantle Dockers players will be visiting our school at the end of term.

Well done Year 6’s.

The Year 10 ACC Football side headed off to All Saints College to compete in the Year 10 Division 5 carnival on Wednesday last week. This is the first time we have competed in this competition for a number of years.

The day started with some nervous excitement as we watched the other schools play their first game, as we had a bye first up. Our first game was against All Saints college. Starting off with a fantastic first up performance winning 84 to 1. We then played Servite College in what would eventually be the match of the day. Ina. Tense match up we managed to come out on top winning the match 2.6 = 18 to 2.2 = 14 with the last kick of the game, thanks to a goal from Kourtney Dodd.

On our final two matches we defeated Lumen Christi by 70 points and then St Georges College by 50 points. Resulting in SBC winning competition and being presented with the winning shield.

There were so many strong contributors on the day that it wouldn't be fair to single out individuals. The day really was an enjoyable experience for all involved and we look forward to stepping up a division in 2027 and beyond.

It has been a wonderful start to Term 3, with our Primary students embracing the many opportunities that learning and College life have to offer. Across our classrooms, students are challenging themselves with their learning, striving to do their best, asking thoughtful questions and making the most of every opportunity to grow. It is wonderful to see students taking ownership of their learning and developing the confidence to have a go, even when something feels challenging.

Our Primary students have also been laughing, learning and throwing themselves into College life, and the number of students who have participated in the many events and activities highlighted throughout this newsletter has been incredible. Whether it is sport, the arts, faith experiences, clubs, competitions or community events, our students continue to show enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved.

Being an active part of College life makes the Primary years so much more than what happens in the classroom. When students participate, contribute and share experiences with others, they develop friendships, create lasting memories and build a genuine sense of belonging. These experiences help our students see themselves as valued members of the wider St Brigid's College community and strengthen the connections that make our College such a special place to learn and grow.

We warmly congratulate our Year 3 students, who received the Sacrament of Reconciliation a few weeks ago. It was a beautiful celebration of faith and an important step in their spiritual journey. We now keep our Year 6 students and their families in our prayers as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation and affirm their Catholic faith. We wish them every blessing as they continue to deepen their relationship with God and grow in their understanding of what it means to live their faith.

Our Early Years students have also been busy embracing opportunities for faith, connection and exploration. This week, our Pre Primary students participated in a special liturgy, coming together in prayer and reflection. The Pre Kindy and Kindy students have also continued their Bush School experiences, with the rainy weather adding an extra element of fun to their outdoor learning. There is something special about seeing our youngest learners embrace the opportunity to explore, investigate and learn from the world around them, whatever the weather may bring.

None of these wonderful experiences would be possible without the generosity and commitment of our staff and parents who continue to put their hands up to support our students. Whether assisting at an event, accompanying students, sharing their expertise or simply giving their time, these members of our Primary community make an invaluable contribution to the experiences we can provide. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who gives their time, energy and enthusiasm for the benefit of our children. Your support helps create the rich and connected learning experiences that our students will remember long after their Primary years have finished.

It is wonderful to see our students learning, laughing, participating and belonging. We look forward to all that the remainder of Term 3 will bring.

Ms Christine Padua | Head of Primary, Pre-Kindy to Year 2

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

Our Pre Kindy children have been discovering God’s wonderful little gifts in our world, especially bugs and nature. We have been tuning in our clever ears and listening to God outdoors, noticing the sounds all around us.

At Bush School, we loved exploring these gifts by making music with sticks, listening to the sounds of nature and enjoying the special gift of rain. The rain has given us so many opportunities to create wonderful mud creations, float boats and splash in puddles. Through these experiences, we are learning to slow down, wonder and appreciate the little gifts God has given us.

Ms Rebecca Bowen | Teacher

Ms Bec Hartwell | Teacher

After a wonderful three-week holiday break, the Year 4 students have returned refreshed, positive, and ready to learn. It has been fantastic to see everyone settle back into classroom routines so quickly and approach the new term with enthusiasm.

In English, students have begun a new Talk for Writing unit based on an action narrative called Adventure at Sandy Cove. Throughout the unit, students are learning how authors engage readers through exciting action scenes, descriptive language, and powerful writing techniques. They have enjoyed learning the story and are beginning to apply these writing tools to their own narratives. In Reading, students are participating in reading rotations that support the development of fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary. Students are working with texts at their individual Lexile levels and are practising strategies that help them become more confident and successful readers. Spellex continues to be an important part of our literacy program. Through explicit instruction, students are strengthening their understanding of spelling patterns, phonemes, and graphemes. It has been pleasing to see students applying these skills in both their reading and writing tasks.

In Mathematics, students have been exploring number patterns and identifying relationships between numbers. We have also begun investigating multiplication and division facts and the different strategies that can be used to solve problems efficiently. It has been pleasing to see students engage enthusiastically in lessons, share their thinking, and think deeply about mathematical concepts and challenges.

In HASS, students have been exploring the diverse continent of Africa. They have studied Ethiopia and Nigeria in depth, learning about each country's geography, culture, landmarks, and way of life. As the term progresses, students will continue exploring other countries across Africa before extending their learning to countries in Europe.

In Science, students have been learning about Chemical Sciences through the investigation of different materials and their uses. They have explored how the properties of materials make them suitable for particular purposes and have enjoyed discussing real-world examples. Students quickly discovered that while chocolate might be delicious, it would certainly not be the best material for making a teapot!

We are looking forward to another exciting term of learning and growth in Year 4.

Mr Joe Comito | Teacher

Ms Shantelle Tassone | Teacher

Subject Selections

The start of this term has been an exciting time for many of our students as they begin selecting subjects for 2027. Our Year 10 students have now completed their course counselling interviews and submitted their subject preferences for Year 11. We are currently developing the 2027 timetable and will work to accommodate as many student choices as possible.

Our current Year 8 and Year 9 students will soon receive their access codes for Edval to select their courses. The 2027 Year 8 and Year 9 Course Handbooks are now available on our website and can be accessed here

I encourage you to take the time to read through the handbooks with your daughter and carefully consider the wide range of elective opportunities available. We are particularly excited to introduce a new Specialist Physical Education elective in AFL. Developed by our Health and Physical Education team in response to growing student interest, this course will support students in developing their skills and knowledge in this increasingly popular sport.

In the coming weeks, our Year 7 students will also receive access codes to select their courses. We encourage them to explore the elective options available and consider opportunities to further develop their interests, knowledge and skills in the Arts and Technologies.

Visiting Students

Over the past week, we have had the pleasure of welcoming our visiting Japanese students into our classrooms. Our student buddies have warmly supported these students, introducing them to their classes and friendship groups.

This cultural exchange provides a wonderful learning opportunity for everyone involved. Our students gain valuable insights into another culture, while our visitors experience life in an Australian school and classroom. We thank our students and staff for making our guests feel so welcome during their time with us.

Year 12 Students

I would like to wish our Year 12 students every success as many finalise their TISC applications and make important decisions about their pathways beyond school. Whether they are considering university, further training, employment or other opportunities for 2027, this is both an exciting and significant time in their lives.

As the end of their secondary schooling approaches, I encourage students to continue seeking support from their teachers and make the most of the assistance available as they prepare for upcoming assessments and examinations. The finish line is now in sight, and our staff remain committed to guiding and supporting our Year 12 students through these final months of their school journey.

We are incredibly proud of their efforts and look forward to celebrating their achievements as the year progresses.

Mrs Marsha Pengilly | Deputy Principal of Teaching & Learning

Celebrating Maths Week at St Brigid’s College

Maths Week was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Mathematics across St Brigid’s College and, importantly, to bring our Primary and Secondary students together. Throughout the week, students were encouraged to see Mathematics beyond the classroom — as something that involves curiosity, problem-solving, creativity and a little friendly competition.

The week began with students from Years 5–7 taking part in the World of Maths incursion. Students worked collaboratively through a range of hands-on mathematical challenges, using reasoning, persistence and teamwork to solve problems in a very different setting from their usual Mathematics lessons.

Later in the week, 82 students from Years 3–12 participated in the Australian Mathematics Competition. It was particularly wonderful to see our Primary and Secondary students completing the competition together, creating a genuine sense of one College mathematical community. The AMC challenges students to apply their mathematical knowledge to unfamiliar problems and provides an opportunity for students who enjoy Mathematics to test their reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Maths Week also extended beyond the classroom, with students across the College taking part in our lolly jar estimation competition and other activities throughout the week. It was fantastic to see students of different ages talking about Mathematics, tackling challenges and sharing in the fun.

Thank you to the staff and students across both Primary and Secondary who helped make Maths Week such a success. Mathematics may look different at different ages, but curiosity, perseverance and the satisfaction of solving a problem are things we can all share.

Ms Sarah Pontré | Head of Learning, Mathematics

For PCP on Tuesday, us year 7 leaders ran a mini lighting carnival but with activities such as dodgeball, soccer with a yoga ball and capture the flag on the senior oval. It was a great experience to practice our leadership skills as a team and a chance to bond with our classmates.

Each activity was run by four leaders, two from each house. We went through how each activity worked, and the rules so we had smooth sailing. This activity brought us together in so many different ways, like team building, participation and leadership. We brought out our competitive sides to build house spirit by cheering on for our house.

We came together as a team at recess and lunch to come up with this fun, inclusive idea. It was very much enjoyed by all of our year 7 classmates and we can’t wait to build on this idea for many more fun activities.

From the Year 7 2026 House Leaders of St Brigid's College

You can view the action of the sessions on these short videos:

Video 1

Video 2

We’re incredibly proud to share that SBC 1 not only qualified for the quarterfinals of the 2026 Mock Trial Competition but finished the group stage ranked 1st out of 122 teams. The competition involved more than 1,400 students from 61 schools across WA!

Last night, the team faced Wesley College in the quarterfinals and came away with another win after an exceptionally close and fiercely contested round. Both teams presented strong arguments, and demonstrated some very quick thinking under pressure, making it an incredibly difficult round to judge.

Adding to the achievement, the presiding judge commented that the round was of the highest standard he had seen in his 15 years involved with the Mock Trial Competition – an amazing reflection of the preparation, advocacy and composure shown by our barristers and witnesses.

A huge congratulations to the entire team for the work they have put in to reach this point.

Now comes the nervous wait! Of the eight teams that won their quarterfinal, only the four highest-scoring teams will progress to the semifinals.

The SBC community couldn’t be prouder of this team!

Are you a Senior school parent looking to connect with other families in your year group? Parent Forum Friend-raising grants are available for cohort gatherings. It’s a great way to build community, share stories, and enjoy time together. Each year group simply nominates a parent liaison to coordinate plans and stay in touch with the Parent Forum.

Friend-raising funds can be used to add a little sparkle — catering, snacks, or a small event. All receipts must be retained and submitted back to PF for reimbursement (in line with our financial procedures). If you are a high school parent and would like more information, contact us at PF - pf.president@stbrigids.wa.edu.au

Last call out to support the Saint Brigid's Netball Club Krispy Kreme Fundraiser. As an added bonus, everyone who makes a purchase goes into a prize for a Father's Day Gift. Click here to make your orders before time runs out.

This opportunity has now been extended for the next fortnight till the Monday 17 August 2026.

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, you have two options, submit your order online HERE or download the order form HERE and submit your engraving details along with payment to the accounts office.

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.

One Big Voice tickets are now on sale. This extremely popular event will be once again held at the RAC Arena and tickets are on sale.

Schools from across WA participate annually in One Big Voice and our very own St Brigid's Choir will be part of it again. We hope to see many of our families and community supporting our students there.

For more information about the event and how to purchase tickets, click here

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:

The Mercy Education Limited Complaints Management Policy - click here

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.

Keep up to date with all the latest from the Catholic School Parents WA news with this term's latest newsletter. To read this issue click here

For more details, contact Kids HQ Kalamunda at kalamunda@kidsHQ.net.au

For the first time in the Kalamunda Cricket Club history, they are very close to getting all girls team together. If you have a daughter, aged 10-17, and is interested in cricket, contact the club or register today.

Join Communicare on Friday 21 August at Woodlupine Family Centre for an engaging workshop exploring how to support babies and toddlers in today's digital environment.

If this topic is of interest to you, please register to attend. Details can be found in the flyer

Local Early Learning Centre, Club HQ, is hosting a Community Play Date and the grand opening of their Playground on 23 August 2026 from 3pm to 5pm, at Club HQ, 32 Central Road Kalamunda.

For more information and further details, contact Club HQ at kalamunda@@kidshq.net.au

AVCAT scholarships are tertiary scholarships for the children and grandchildren of Australian ex-serving veterans. Scholarships are $ 4,000–$ 6,000 per year for up to three years.

Apply online at avcat.org.au from 18 August 2026, Vietnam Veterans' Day. Applications close at midnight AEDT on 31 October 2026.

Applicants Must Be:

• Enrolled, or planning to enrol, in a full-time course for one or more academic year’s duration at a university, TAFE, or RTO in 2027

• The child, stepchild, foster child, or grandchild of an Australian ex-serving veteran

• An Australian citizen or permanent resident

The Long Tan Bursary is sponsored by the Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs. View the complete list of AVCAT Scholarship sponsors here.

Find information about scholarships, the application process or scholarship eligibility at avcat.org.au.