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- Principal's Report
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- Assistant Principal's Report
- Religious Education Report
- Director of Learning & Wellbeing
- Director of Learning and Curriculum
- Director of Learning & Inclusion Report
- Business Manager's Report
- Polding Walk Sponsors
- English Report
- CAPA Report
- TAS Report
- Year 12 News
- Sports Report
- Library News
- Pathways and Partnership News
- eLearning Report
- Wellbeing
- Attendance
- BYOD
- Parent App Summary - Compass, Canvas and QKR Apps
- Uniform Shop
- Canteen Menu
- Teaching Staff List and Emails
- Opal Card
- Busways
- St Monica's Richmond Parish Spring Fair 2025
- NSW Health Resources
- School Zones & Parking Rules
- Safer Driver Course
Dear Parents and Families,
In this Sunday’s readings we will hear from the Gospel of Luke. Pope Francis provided a beautiful reflection on this in 2019 and I have drawn upon this to write to our families this week. On Sunday we will hear how Jesus teaches about humility and selfless generosity. Observing guests seeking places of honour, Jesus warns against pride and social climbing, which harm fraternity. Instead, he calls us to choose the lowest place, allowing others to honour us, showing that true humility fosters authentic relationships. In the second parable, Jesus urges hosts to invite the poor and those unable to repay, highlighting God’s logic of humble generosity over self-interest. Such actions bring divine reward, not human repayment. Pope Francis reminds us that authentic joy lies in giving freely, sharing God’s love, and living humbly.
I see this everyday in the life of our College in the way students and teachers interact as lessons are taught and skills are developed that will help our students succeed when they graduate high school. We have a lot to be appreciative of this week at Bede Polding College and indeed about this beautiful part of the world. I thank each and every student, teacher, parent and carer for contributing to the fabric of our school.
Father's Day is next Sunday
On Friday 5 September we will come together to celebrate Mass and give thanks for the fathers, the fatherly figures in our lives and those whose father has entered eternal life. We acknowledge that this day may be painful for some as they remember loved ones who have passed. The father’s in our lives provide us guidance, unconditional love and everything we need to not only survive but to thrive. None of us would be here today if it wasn’t for the love of our father. At Bede Polding College, we encourage students to be the best possible person they can be. This is made possible when we open our heart to Jesus’ teachings, listen to our Father and show gratitude for their blessings. We wish every blessing for the fathers and fatherly figures in our community.
Looking towards the end of Term 3, we will sadly farewell Year 12 as they complete 13 years of schooling, with only the HSC exams left to complete. In talking to the students, schooling has, at times, felt like a never-ending journey but now feels like it has gone too soon. I am incredibly proud of the way the students are working hard to consolidate their learning and I know they will be able to look back on their time at our College with pride. We wish the young men and women in this talented group every success as they listen to what God is calling them to do in this busy world. Please keep our Year 12 students and Year 11 accelerated students in your prayers.
Reminder:
From time-to-time excursions are planned to compliment students’ learning. An essential component of this is providing permission and making payments by the due date. We strive to cover as many excursions as possible in the school fees. To allow us to plan effectively for buses and bookings it is important that due dates are met by providing permission and making payments by the due date.
Due dates are final, we cannot accept late permission to attend excursions. If you ever have an issue returning permission on time or making a payment, contact the office urgently on 02 4560 2900 and we will do our best to assist.
Greg Malone
College Principal
Upcoming Dates
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29 August |
Year 12 Major Project Showcase 5-8pm |
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3 September |
Year 10 Reflection Day |
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5 September |
Father’s Day Mass 1.45pm |
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8 September |
Year 8 HSIE Incursion and Excursion |
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8 – 18 September |
Year 11 Preliminary Exams |
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18 September |
Year 12 Farewell Assembly Year 12 Annual Students vs Teachers competition |
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23 September |
Year 12 Graduation Mass and Prize Giving |
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26 September |
Year 12, 2026 Student Representative Council assembly Final Day Term 3 |
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27 September |
Macquarie University Astronomy night |
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14 October |
Term 4 Commences, Full Summer uniform HSC Exams Commence |
Year 12, Gratitude, Empathy & Mindfulness and the HSC Showcase
As we go to print for this edition of The Good Samaritan, our Year 12 students return from the Trial HSC exams. I want to acknowledge the effort, persistence, and resilience they have shown throughout this demanding period. Trials are often described as a “practice run,” but for many students they feel like the real thing. It is natural that some results may not be what students had hoped for. What matters most now, however, is not the mark on the page but how they use the feedback to grow. Every piece of feedback is a step forward – an opportunity to identify strengths, address gaps, and refine strategies for the HSC ahead.
This year group holds a special place in our community. They were the very first cohort to begin our school’s G.E.M. program when they arrived in Year 7. The principles of Gratitude, Empathy, and Mindfulness – inspired by Hugh van Cuylenburg’s Resilience Project work – remain as relevant today as they were then. As they navigate the final weeks of their school journey, I encourage our Year 12 students to carry these values with them: to be grateful for the support around them, to show empathy for others, especially their peers who may be feeling the same pressures, and to approach each challenge with mindfulness and balance.
For those of our Year 12s who have completed a HSC subject with a Major Project we are excited to celebrate these projects at our upcoming HSC Major Project Showcase on Friday 29th August 6-8pm in the Good Samaritan Hall. The evening will consist of an exhibition and performances of major projects from the HSC Creative & Performing Arts and TAS faculties, and catering from our TAS department. We are incredibly proud of Year 12 and look forward to walking alongside them as they take their final steps toward graduation.
Upcoming Careers Breakfast
You may have noticed in recent Announcements and Socials our next BPC Careers Breakfast event will be held on the 4th September, with the focus: Working in the Community. All are welcome.
This leads me to point out that it is no surprise that BPC graduates are highly sought after in the community. Whether pursuing tertiary studies, apprenticeships, traineeships or entering the workforce, our former students are recognised for their commitment, capability and character. The reputation of our College goes before them, opening doors and building trust.
This is why it is so important that we continue to uphold the high standards of learning, behaviour and integrity that BPC is known for. Every student contributes to our shared reputation, and every achievement adds to the story of pride we hold as a community.
All families with children enrolled at the College have signed a Statement of Understanding. This highlights the expectation that students will demonstrate politeness, tolerance, cooperation, and self-discipline, while also taking pride in their uniform and appearance – not just at school but also when travelling to and from the College or representing BPC in the wider community. These qualities help sustain the strong reputation our graduates enjoy.
At times, we ask parents and carers to partner with us by reinforcing these expectations – encouraging responsibility, guiding decision-making, and reminding students that their actions reflect not only on themselves but on their peers and the College as a whole. Together, we can help our young people grow into graduates who carry the values of BPC with pride.
Angela McEnearney
Acting Assistant Principal
Feast of the Assumption Mass - August 15
The Catholic Church celebrated the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15. The doctrine of the Assumption illustrates Mary the mother of Jesus, having finished her life on Earth, being taken up to Heaven body and soul. Having been free from sin since her conception, together with her complete faithfulness in God, Mary was spared from death and assumed into Heaven. Mary’s Assumption into Heaven can be viewed as her reward from God. While we are not free of sin, we can still follow her example. Mr Rodricks-Testa and BPC student representatives attended Mass this morning at St Matthew's Windsor Parish this morning as a way to celebrate the Feast Day on behalf of our community.
Fr Adam Carlow Visits!
Fr Adam from St Monica’s Richmond Parish is visiting us every Friday with his Miniature Schnauzer pet dog, Bonnie! It’s a great opportunity for our students to get to know Fr Adam inside and outside the classroom.
Our Lady Help of Christians Chapel Regular Mass
Fr Raymond, Fr Adam and Fr Ranning have offered to celebrate a regular weekly Mass in our Our Lady Help of Christians Chapel! This is very exciting and a wonderful opportunity for our students to celebrate Mass on a weekly basis. One Year 10 Religion class will celebrate Mass every week and our Year 8 students will also have a turn in Term 4.
On Wednesday August 20th, we celebrated our first ever Religion class Mass in Our Lady Help of Christians chapel with Mr Lazaroo’s 10 Religion class. We were blessed to have Fr Raymond celebrate the Mass and deliver a powerful homily about the Parable of the Labourers in the Vineyard.
St Monica’s Richmond Spring Fair
You’re all invited to attend the St Monica’s Parish Richmond Spring Fair on Saturday 20th September! This is a HUGE day filled with activities, games, prizes, food and fun for the whole family!
Vinnies Winter Appeal and Sleepout 2025
Thank you to all our students and staff for donating items to the Vinnies Winter Appeal. Fred McEnearney, our Richmond Vinnies Representative, collected the items on Tuesday, 16th August, which will go towards those people in our Hawkesbury community who are doing it tough.
A huge thank you to all the students and staff who took part in the Vinnies Winter Sleepout. This event was a powerful opportunity to experience a glimpse of homelessness, while raising vital funds and awareness for those who have no choice but to sleep without shelter and with limited supplies. We were able to raise $320 which will go towards the Richmond Vinnies Conference.
We are especially grateful to our guest speaker, Allan, and to Miss Samson for sharing about the incredible work of Vinnies and the many opportunities for Bede students to get involved. The creativity of our cardboard box homes was impressive, and students bravely faced the cold to build empathy and solidarity with those doing it tough in our community.
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40
Father's Day Mass - RSVP via the Google Form on Compass!
You are all invited to our Fathers Day Mass on Friday 5th September at 1:45pm in our Good Samaritan Hall. This is an opportunity to celebrate the gift of fatherhood in our community and the special role that fathers and father figures play in our lives. Please RSVP via the Google Form sent to you via Compass by Wednesday 3rd September.
St Mary Mackillop’s Feast Day - Bembul (Red) House Patron Saint
We celebrated the Feast of St Mary Mackillop on Friday 8th August who is the Bembul House Patron Saint. St Mary Mackillop is Australia’s first and only saint and was a catalyst and pioneer for Catholic education in Australia. She was a Sister of St Joseph who fought for the rights of all children to be educated. All students were invited to wear a splash of ‘red’ to celebrate the Day and raise funds via purchasing red ribbon or a red heart tattoo that will be donated to the Bembul House Charity ‘Mary Mackillop Today’, named after St Mary Mackillop
Supporting our ACYF (Australian Catholic Youth Festival) Pilgrims
The Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) is a three-day national gathering of young Catholics, giving students the chance to connect, grow in faith, and experience the vibrancy of the Church in Australia. This year, it will be held in Melbourne from the 30th of November, to the 2nd December, hosted by the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne.
We are excited that 12 students, along with Miss Apap and Miss Samson, will be attending. Thanks to our recent Bake Sale, we raised an amazing $1,151 to support their pilgrimage.This was our second successful fundraiser with more to come. Thank you to all staff and students who helped make it possible.
Mr Joshua Rodricks-Testa (REC)
Director of Learning and Religious Education
Mr Michael Aure (Assistant REC)
Ms Sarah Fitzpatrick (Acting FIAT Leader)
RE Leadership Team
This Road Rules Awareness Week (August 18 -24)
By promoting safe driving, awareness around buses, and highlighting commonly misunderstood road rules – we can help reduce road accidents.
Remember:
- Buses are large, heavy vehicles that cannot stop quickly
- Please give way to buses
- Slow down to 40km/h when bus lights flash – as children may run out from behind or in front of the bus unexpectedly
- Hold on while travelling and remain seated until the bus stops
Help spread the word about Road Rules Awareness Week with the below content:
- Downloadable Road User Handbook
- Animation Videos – School Zones and Bus safety in NSW - Bus flashing lights
- Road Rules Awareness Quiz
Together we can make our roads safer for everyone.
Student Wellbeing Links and Policies
BPC College Uniform & Presentation
CSPD Bullying of Students Prevention & Response
CSPD Student Attendance Procedures
CSPD Student Use of Digital Devices & Online Services Policy
Bede Polding College Merit System
Brendan Jansz
Director of Learning & Wellbeing
Year 12
A huge thank you to the Year 12 students for the way they conducted themselves throughout the Trial HSC period.
Every student is encouraged to work together with their peers through the coming weeks of revision to maximise each of their potential in the HSC exams.
If due to an unforeseen circumstance, a student is unable to sit an HSC exam, they must contact the college and Mr Milgate immediately.
The illness/misadventure process for the HSC is far more stringent than the school-based process, and completely different forms are required for NESA.
Mr Milgate will meet with Year 12 to explain this to them.
Year 11 Preliminary Exam block
Students have been provided the timetable for their Preliminary exams. These will take place between Monday of Week 8 and Thursday of Week 9.
Students will return to class Friday Week 9.
Students have been provided the timetable for these exams. If, for any reason, a student cannot attend an exam, they are to contact Mr Milgate as soon as possible. If there is an issue during the exam block, they should complete an Illness/Misadventure form and contact the college
Year 11 Subject Changes
As Year 11 students complete their preliminary studies at the beginning of next term, some students may have the ability to move courses. This will primarily happen between Maths, English and Religion courses. Any student wishing to make a change will need to obtain a Subject Change form from Mr Milgate, and have it signed by their parents.
Year 7-10 Semester 2 exam block
A schedule for the Year 7-10 Assessment tasks that will take place next term will be provided to students before the end of this term.
Michael Milgate
Director of Learning and Curriculum
Students with disability and diagnoses
Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and the Disability Standards for Education 2005, Australian students with disability must be able to access and participate in education on the same basis as their peers. To ensure this, students with disability may receive adjustments to access education, based on the professional judgement of teachers, in consultation with the student and their parents or carers. This process is called ‘Planning and Collaboration’. Over the course of this term and next, our Inclusion Leaders will be meeting with eligible students and their parents/carers to discuss their learning needs, goals and adjustments. These meetings provide an opportunity for student and parent voice, and for teachers to learn how we can best support each student.
If you have concerns about your child’s learning in the classroom, if there are social and emotional concerns, or if there are safety or physical concerns, please get in touch with the College. You can contact me directly, or another member of the College staff and express your concern or wondering, and we’ll be sure to follow up.
Teacher Aide Support
We currently have a team of 14 Teacher Aides who work various days throughout the week, and I would like to extend a warm welcome to Sam Lane, Fin Hicks, Will Hicks, Harry Hicks and Hannah Fitzpatrick who have recently joined our team. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of our Teacher Aides for the wonderful job they do in supporting our students each day. The support they give our students and teachers is invaluable and can include assisting students in theory and practical subjects, acting as readers and writers in exams, running literacy interventions, and attending excursions and sporting events.
Jessica Abbotts
Acting Director of Learning & Inclusion
School Fees General Information
CSPD have sent instalment 3 statements via the email address nominated at the time of enrolment. If you would like to set up an arrangement for the remainder of the year please notify the College via email bede-wndsfees@parra.catholic.edu.au to organise and arrange a payment plan that is suitable for your family.
School fees can still be paid for in cash at your local post office. These post BillPay details are noted on your school fee statements.
Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta (CEDP) has a policy in place which states that a Term's notice (10 weeks) must be given in writing to the Principal before the removal of a student. Failure to do this means that the full 10 weeks’ fees will be payable. A Leaver's form can be collected from the front office and completed for each departing student.
Further information regarding school fees can be found here.
bede-wndsfees@parra.catholic.edu.au
Parking around the College
Hawkesbury City Council (HCC) Rangers have conducted inspections around the College and neighbouring streets, distributing flyers and reminding motorists and residents about parking regulations.
As a result, we anticipate that HCC will begin issuing parking infringements to those who fail to comply. Parents are reminded that it is illegal to park across/in driveways, even if waiting in their car to collect students, and residents have the right to local authorities contacted regarding violations.
Students have also been reminded of their responsibilities when parking and driving near/around the College, including not moving waste bins to create parking spaces and always being courteous and respectful to our neighbors.
Sean McNally
Business Manager
Last week, our school came alive with the excitement of Book Week, a celebration of stories, imagination, and the joy of reading. Each day was packed with fun and engaging activities that encouraged students to connect with books in new and creative ways.
Every morning, students took part in GEM competitions designed to challenge their book knowledge and teamwork. These included guessing book titles from emojis, answering book trivia questions, and identifying popular book covers with the titles removed.
Lunchtimes featured extra special activities that kept students engaged and excited. On Tuesday, we hosted a fast-paced Blooket competition focused on books that have been turned into films. Wednesday offered a unique opportunity for students to go on a Blind Date with a Book, borrowing mystery novels wrapped in brown paper to surprise and delight readers. During Recess, Year 7 and 8 students also had the chance to participate in the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee, putting their spelling skills to the test.
Our Year 7 cohort also had the pleasure of participating in an exclusive Author Talk with Bilal Hafda and Ela Pinar. These fantastic poets engaged our students in how they came to be writers themselves and wowed them with their own performances of slam poetry. Students also tried their own hand at crafting a group poem with spectacular results!
On Thursday, students roamed the school grounds for a Scavenger Hunt, following book-based clues to solve puzzles and complete the challenge. Then, on Friday, creativity took centre stage with our Write a Book in a Day event. Students worked collaboratively to plan, write, and illustrate an original story in just one day—a true showcase of imagination, teamwork, and storytelling talent.
Adding to the fun, teachers embraced a different book-themed dress-up each day, bringing characters to life in the hallways and classrooms. On Tuesday, Hogwarts came to school as staff dressed up as Harry Potter characters, with Mr Malone roaming the school dressed as Albus Dumbledore. Other costume themes included Where's Wally, 101 Dalmatians and fairy tale characters.
Book Week was a wonderful celebration of the love of literature. Thank you to all the students and staff who participated with such enthusiasm. We’re already looking forward to next year!
Sarah Twal
Leader of Learning English
Emu Wars- CAPTIVATE Immersion Project
Montana Beattie Charles (Year 11) recently participated in the CAPTIVATE Immersion Project during the school holidays & in week 1 of this term.
The performances were held at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith, to packed audiences. Congratulations to Montana on an outstanding performance, and her commitment to developing her Drama skills!
Walking in, I had no idea what to expect! It was my first time participating in Captivate immersion, so I was anxious about what was to come, given the script was a surprise and there were many schools and new faces. We had to audition beforehand, showcasing all areas of CAPA, even if it wasn't my strength (especially dancing); however, with the support of teachers and a passion for theatre, I decided to give it my best and submit it. After the awkward silences and embarrassed giggles, everyone began to open up and chat with each other, and with such a positive environment, it became easy to make friends who I now consider to be some of my closest friends. Working on the script came with its challenges; awkward poses, learning lines, singing, blocking scenes, seeing what works and doesn't etc, but that only brought everyone closer. This provided me and others with experience as to what's expected in the professional theatre industry, from planning to execution and gave me great insights and experiences into the world of dramatic arts. It takes a lot to push yourself out of your comfort zone, but the more you raise your hand and try your best, the more opportunities and growth you have.
Yes, it was a lot of work, getting up early, giving up school holidays and long hours; however, it pays off! The rewarding feeling of putting on a 50-minute performance that you only began working on 7 days ago, successfully in front of a full audience with your friends by your side is astonishing and I would never give it up! I am 100% planning on doing this next year and hope to inspire others from Bede to step out of their comfort zone and give immersion a go, even if it's taking the time to watch the show during the student or public showing! Thank you to the CAPA department and Captivate team who made this memorable experience possible!!!
- Montana Beattie-Charles, Year 11
Angela Rando
Leader of Learning- Creative and Performing Arts
Timber and Metal
Year 12 HSC Major Work Projects
Congratulations to our Year 12 HSC Industrial Technology Timber students who have completed their Major Work Projects. Many hours have been spent designing, planning, and constructing their works. Check out the finished products.
Completed Projects
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Year 10 Timber and Metal
A busy time in the TAS workshops with our students constructing footstools and rocket stoves. Numerous new techniques and construction processes resulted in some excellent results.
Rocket Stove Project – Term 3, 2025
This term, our Year 10 Industrial Technology Metal students have been busy designing and fabricating their own rocket stoves. Using RHS (rectangular hollow section) and solid metal bar, students developed key metalworking skills through a range of industry-relevant processes.
Throughout the project, students demonstrated proficiency in MIG welding, cold sawing, and grinding techniques, ensuring strong joins and accurate cuts in their designs. To complete their projects, each stove was coated with a heat-tolerant paint finish, providing both durability and a professional appearance.
The rocket stove project has given students the opportunity to apply their practical skills to a real-world product, while reinforcing workshop safety, precision, and craftsmanship. The final results were both functional and impressive, showcasing the creativity and technical abilities of our Year 10 class.
Timber - Footstool
Craig Adams
Leader of Learning Technological & Applied Studies (TAS)
Year 12 are making the most of their definitive months at Bede Polding College during their last term of classes as the class of 2025. With Trials in week 3 and 4, the students have been extremely busy making preparations for their final internal assessment examinations as well as getting major projects ready and completed for submission. This is a stressful and challenging time not only for the students themselves but also the parents, teachers and families as students strive to achieve their best. Final touches are producing some magnificent major projects in the vast array of subjects from timber to visual arts to refining practical performances in music and drama.
The Year 12 cohort continue to get involved in many initiatives in and around school life adding to their final year experience. Recently, the year 12’s have taken part in various social justice initiatives like the Vinnies Van while many have put their name down for The Winter Sleepout this Friday. Sporting opportunities have been met with enthusiasm such as the Year 12 Ping Pong tournament and when given the chance our young men represented the College at the Senior Rugby League Gala days with distinction and performed very well. Many year 12 students were also fortunate enough to attend the College snow trip during the holidays where fantastic memories were made with peers while learning and practicing new skills.
When the students return to classes at the conclusion of the Trial exam period, learning will continue with the analysis of results and feedback. The class of 2025 will turn their focus to the ultimate HSC examinations and commence preparations for end of year Formal and Graduation Ceremonies. We ask that the community keep the students in your prayers during these busy and exciting times where hard work and commitment is to be recognised, cherished and celebrated.
Upcoming Events and Dates
- Major Projects Showcase Evening, Friday 29th of August 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
- Father's Day Mass, 5th September.
- Year 12 Spirit Week, 15th of September - 19th of September.
- Farewell Assembly, Friday 19th of September.
- Graduation Day, Tuesday 23rd of September.
- HSC Examinations commence, October 14.
- Year 12 Formal, Thursday November 20 from 6 pm
Mr Adrian Chapman
Acting Year 12 Leader of Wellbeing
Inter Boys Rugby League
The Inter boys' rugby league team unfortunately ended their season after a nail-biting semi-final loss to Xavier College 5 - 4 on Thursday, 14th August. In a back-and-forth first half, the boys completed every set and went into halftime 4 all. In the 2nd half, with the rain pelting down, they defended a dozen consecutive sets on their own goal line before Xavier put over a field goal to take the lead. The boys tried in vain to take the lead back but unfortunately ran out of time. Sam Place had a man of the match performance. The boys should be congratulated on a fantastic season. There are some talented players in this team that could be in rep system in years to come.
Aaron Campbell
If you would like to share your career journey with our current students, by speaking at our next Careers Breakfast, please email Margaret Dawson: mdawson2@parra.catholic.edu.au
Would you like to share your career journey with our community? We'd love to hear from you!
https://forms.gle/vdGNWehtapf7ETLs8
Follow our BPC Pathways Instagram page for more information and updates in regards to post-school Pathways and Partnership opportunities: https://www.instagram.com/bpcpathways/
Canvas Parent Portal
Parents are encouraged to register for the Canvas Parent Portal. Please complete the form on the Canvas Learning Portal Page on the College Website.
Learning Devices
The college’s preferred learning devices are Apple MacBooks and Google Chromebooks. Our BYOD Requirements Checklist can be found on the Learning Device Page on the College Website.
Matthew Kneller
Leader of eLearning
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NURTURING STRENGTHS: UNLOCKING YOUR CHILD’S POTENTIAL Presented by Beyond For parents of Years 3–6 primary school This webinar empowers parents to recognise and nurture their child’s unique strengths and talents, guiding them toward greater confidence, motivation, and resilience. Parents learn how to observe their children’s natural abilities, encourage self-expression, and create hands-on opportunities that align with their interests. |
Wednesday 10 September 12.30pm – 1.15pm
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 Help your child navigate cyberbullyingThis week is Bullying No Way: National Week of Action (11-15 August) - an Australia-wide bullying prevention initiative for schools. Parents and carers also have an important role to play in preventing and addressing bullying. If you’re concerned your child may be experiencing bullying online, here are 7 ways to support them:
Cyberbullying guide for parents and carers
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 Navigating AI companions and deepfakesAI is changing the way young people connect - and not always for the better. From deepfake technology like photos, videos or sound files that can damage reputations to AI chatbots that are powered by artificial intelligence and mimic real relationships, it’s more important than ever for parents and carers to stay informed and empowered. Here’s how you can help your child stay safe and resilient:
AI and deepfakes online safety advisory Free webinar - AI assisted image-based abuse: Navigating the deepfake threatAI, emojis, and hidden tactics - cyberbullying is changing, and often in ways that is hidden to parents. Join eSafety’s expert-led webinar to understand how AI technologies are being used and misused and why understanding their use matters. This session is ideal for parents and carers of children in both primary and secondary school and includes practical steps you can take to increase awareness and support your child. Tuesday 21 October, 12:00pm to 1:15pm (AEDT) Free webinar - Understanding AI Companions: What parents and carers need to knowAI chatbots and companions, designed to simulate personal relationships, are growing in popularity, but they pose some very serious risks – especially to children and young people. In this 45-minute webinar, we’ll explore the basics of AI companions, their role in online interactions, and concerning behaviours to look out for. You’ll walk away with practical tools to support your child’s relationships in a digital world. Thursday 28 August, 12:30pm to 1:15pm (AEST) |
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 New eSafety resources for First Nations familiesFirst Nations children and young people are using the internet in powerful, positive and creative ways. However, our research shows they’re also more likely to encounter online harms, like hate speech and cyberbullying. These negative online experiences can have deep impacts that lead to impaired mental health, perceived reputational damage and lower grades at school. New resources from eSafety are designed to support parents and carers yarn with their kids and young people about online safety, tackling things like:
Check out the guides and fact sheets, yarning cards and videos, and help spread the word among your community by downloading our social media tiles, posters and postcards. |
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 Wear It Purple DayeSafety's research shows that the LGBTIQ+ community experiences online hate at more than double the national average in Australia. It is important to recognise that online hate and discrimination also comes from within the community. We all have a role to play in ensuring that the online world is a safe and inclusive place for everyone. To support your child, family member or friends who may belong to the LGBTIQ+ community, explore these helpful resources:
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 Why are under-16s being ‘banned’ from social media?From mid-December, Australian children under 16 will not be allowed to hold accounts on certain social media platforms. The age restrictions are likely to apply to Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube, among other platforms. Online gaming and standalone messaging apps are among a number of types of services that have been excluded. It’s not a ban. It’s a delay to having accounts.Being logged into an account increases the likelihood that under-16s will be exposed to pressures and risks that can be hard to deal with. For example, the pressure to respond to a stream of notifications and alerts, and the risk of exposure to content that can harm their health and wellbeing. Delaying account access until 16 will give young people more time to build digital literacy, critical reasoning, impulse control and greater resilience. It’s important that parents and carers help under-16s by talking openly about the age restrictions, finding out how they currently use social media and how they may be impacted by the law. eSafety will provide more information and guidance over the coming months. Check out our tips below on what you can do now to help your family prepare. What can I do to help my family prepare? |
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Parent Line NSW
Parent Line NSW is a free telephone counselling, support and referral service for parents and carers with children aged 0 to 18 who live in New South Wales. Parent Line is also an information service for professionals working with children and families.
Absence Explanation in Compass
Parents/Carers are to note that all absences for a student must be explained within 7 days or they legally are required to remain as Absent Unjustified. This may have an impact on some students and families accessing Government support payments and tertiary enrolments (if the training provider requires attendance data as part of the enrolment process).
Attendance leaving early:
To add a note on Compass: Please click below Compass Education Guide.
To add a note or approval, select one or more of the absences listed, then select the "Explain with Note/Approval" button. Parents have a modified list of the options that the school has when adding a Note/Approval. Please click on Compass Education Guide to our website for a guide.
Extended Leave
Please click here to go to our website for leave forms.
Family details
If your family’s details change, it is important that you contact the office to get a student details form, so that our system reflects your contact information accurately.
Or or alternatively you can edit them in Compass.
Please click on Opal card to Transport NSW
Please click on link to Replace a OPAL card
Please see attached letter detailing select bus service changes that will directly impact students attending your school commencing Monday 30th June 2025.
NEW Busways timetable attached that comes into effect Monday 30 June 2025.
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Call Health Direct campaign – campaign resources found here
NSW Health is pleased to share with you the new call health direct Campaign toolkit. The campaign aims to promote the health direct number as the first step to access health advice, care and treatment for non-life threatening conditions. When you call health direct, you’ll speak to a registered nurse who will help you get the care you need. They can find you a nearby doctor, pharmacist, urgent care service, or even connect you to specialist virtual care. We’re encouraging people to save this number, 1800 022 222, for free, easy access to health advice and care whenever they need it.
The key links are:
- For more information about health direct: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Hospitals/Pages/healthdirect.aspx
- Campaign launch Ministerial media release: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/news/Pages/20250521_01.aspx
Vaccination education campaign – campaign resources found here
NSW Health is pleased to share with you the 2025 Vaccination Campaign toolkit. This campaign aims to raise awareness, support and encourage proactive information-seeking so individuals can make informed decisions about immunisation. These materials are evergreen and can be used throughout winter and beyond.
The key links are:
- For more information about vaccinations: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/vaccinationinfo
- Translated information about vaccinations: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/vaccinationinfo#translations
2025 Influenza Vaccination campaign – campaign resources found here
NSW Health is pleased to share with you the 2025 Influenza Vaccination Campaign toolkit. This campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of flu vaccination during winter, to help increase uptake of the flu vaccine among all of the population in NSW, particularly at-risk audiences. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over and offers the best protection from getting really sick.
The key links are:
- Book a flu vaccine: www.healthdirect.gov.au/nswfluvaccine
- For more information about influenza: www.health.nsw.gov.au/flu
- For more information about respiratory illness: www.health.nsw.gov.au/respiratory
2025 Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) campaign – campaign resources found here
NSW Health is pleased to share with you the 2025 Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) Campaign toolkit. This campaign, which runs until the end of winter, includes budget-friendly and accessible ways for families to:
Eat healthily – tips to eat healthily and drink water, including free low-cost winter recipes and lunchbox ideas
Get active – ideas and tips to help you stay active during winter such as at-home exercises or connecting with nature
Support – free programs to help you and your family keep up healthy habits.
The key links are:
- NSW Healthy Eating Active Living website: Healthy Eating Active Living - Getting healthy starts with small steps
Thank you for your ongoing support to help protect the NSW community.