Brendan Jansz

Director of Learning & Wellbeing

NAPLAN Results

Recently, you would have received your child’s 2025 NAPLAN results for Year 7 and 9. I must first acknowledge that NAPLAN is not the only indicator of success, but rather, another piece of a student’s academic story. 

As mentioned in previous editions of this newsletter, our dedicated staff have been targeting the skill of writing, using explicit instruction strategies to elevate the way students comprehend and communicate in each subject. 

As a result of this, we have some encouraging results from this year’s NAPLAN. In Year 7, we have almost doubled the number of those achieving the top band of ‘Exceeding’, with our numbers increasing from approximately 6.8% to 11.3%. In Year 9, we have also made significant gains in writing, with students achieving ‘Exceeding’ increasing from approximately 8.3% to 13.14%.

This is a testament to both the targeted teaching strategies of our teachers, and the ability of our students to take, and act on feedback. 

We know that the ability to communicate effectively has tremendous positive impacts on success in further study, and of course, in the workforce. Well done to our Year 7 and 9 students, and we look forward to sharing even more academic success in the future.

Michael Milgate

Director of Learning and Curriculum

In Week 10 last term, at our College Assembly, we acknowledged and celebrated the success of students who completed and achieved Duke of Edinburgh Awards in 2024.

To attain a Duke of Edinburgh Award, students must consistently participate for at least one hour per week in a Sport, a Skill, Community Service and, for the Gold Award, complete a 5-Day Residential Experience where they live away from home. Students also have to complete two Expeditions.

Our guest presenter was Mr Andrew Sobiesiak, a Bede Polding College Alumni who attended the College from 2003 - 2008. Andrew was involved in the Dukes Award Program between 2005 - 2008 achieved the Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. He was a member of the first group of students to achieve the Gold Award at BPC. Andy left the College 17 years ago and today is a Senior Water Hydrologist with Water NSW. 

In 2024, two students successfully attained their Gold Award - Isabella Cody and Calum Winston. This is a very great honour that they can be very proud of.  

The Community Service section of the Award highlights individuals contributing positively to our society and being willing to help others voluntarily. Both Isabella and Calum have volunteered for three years at the same organisations and they have made a great difference to many people’s lives. The expeditions that they both completed for their Gold Award included Barrington Tops National Park and the Hume and Hovell Track in Kosciuszko National Park.

Isabella Cody

• Dancing
• Driving
• Church Service - Servants of God
• Mt Carmel Youth Retreat Centre

Calum Winston

• Personal Fitness
• Reading
• East Kurrajong Rural Fire Service
• Youth Leadership and Business Summit

Three Year 11 students also achieved Duke of Edinburgh Awards: Chelsea Boyle and Nicole Grima achieved the Silver Award, and Kira Mantovani the Bronze Award

2025

In 2025 the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme at BPC has offered students the opportunity to complete the Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards in Years 10, 11 and 12.

Years 11/ 12

Two Year 12 students are completing the Silver Award, and two Year 11 students have started their Gold Award after completing their Silver Award. In late Term 1, these students completed a 4-day Expedition in Barrington Tops National Park. The landscape at Barrington Tops is subalpine and there are many spectacular places and views that the students experienced.

Students have to complete Voluntary Community Service and volunteer for 6 -12 months to achieve their Duke of Edinburgh Award. Some of the institutions these students are committing to include Fitzgerald Aged Care at Windsor, Riding for the Disabled at the Gables, Hawkesbury Helping Hands at South Windsor and Hawkesbury Community Soup Kitchen at Windsor. The students are to be commended for their dedication and compassion in helping out at these venues, and making a difference in people’s lives.

Year 10

19 students are completing their Silver Award in Year 10. These students completed their first Adventurous Journey last term in April at the Royal National Park. Highlights of this expedition included hiking along the Coastal Track - regarded as one of the most scenic and spectacular walks in Australia, the numerous waterfalls that were visited and camping at Bonnie Vale Campground with its 100% water views. We wish these students the best of luck in finalising the completion of the other sections of the Award - Sport, Skill and Service. They will complete their final Expedition in Week 10 this term hiking the Six Foot Track - Jenolan Caves to Katoomba. The Silver Award is highly recognised by employers and universities, rewarding students with bonus ATAR points for the successful completion of this Award.

Year 9 

The Duke of Edinburgh Award Award - Bronze or Silver Award - will be offered to Year 9 later this term with students being able to commence the Award in Term 4. Students will need to  nominate and then put in an application to complete either the Bronze or Silver Award in 2026. The process of making an application to complete an Award next year will be presented to Year 9 students at a Wellbeing Meeting later this term. We are hoping students will take the opportunity for self-improvement and individual growth/achievement by undertaking the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Mr Windon - Duke of Edinburgh Award Coordinator

Martial Arts

We are extremely proud to share that 2 BPC students, Mia Perrett & Marissa Kaaoui,  have just returned from America where they represented Australia at the prestigious Martial Arts Tournament the US Open. This is a huge Tournament where competitors come from all over the world.

Mia Perrett 1st Place Hand Power Break

Mia Perrett 6th place Traditional Forms 

Mia Perrett/Marissa Kaaoui 9th place Team Sync Forms

Marissa's incredible achievements have been shared in Mr Marshall's Year 9 Report.

NSW Equestrian Interschools Championships

Tigerlily Jakeman represented Bede Polding College at the recent NSW Equestrian Interschools Championships. Tigerlily and Bede Polding College were awarded Senior NSW State Champion.

Tasha McKiernan won Junior NSW State Champion and will be attending Bede Polding College next year in year 7!

Tigerlily is a part of this Australian team and they are training for world championships to be held next year in Germany.

State Interschools Championships 2025 

The following students represented Bede Polding College at the State Interschools Championships in the holidays, gaining the following amazing results at State Level!

Makynil Holt 5th overall in the Working Hunter

6th overall 60cm Combined training

Preliminary Dressage

Novice Dressage

Elementary Dressage

Lilly Bonanno 8th and 11th Preliminary Dressage

Ava Dirou 3rd Senior 80cm Combined Training

7th overall in Medium Dressage

Elly Kape 3rd overall Working Hunter

Senior Novice Dressage

Maya Sarkis Reserve Champion Working Hunter

Champion 60cm Combined Training

The following students will represent Bede Polding College at National Interschools at Sydney International Equestrian Centre from 25 September for Team NSW!!

From the 11th to the 14th of July, the annual Bede Polding College Snow Trip was run with great success. This trip was a fantastic opportunity for our students to explore the beauty of the snowy mountains, engage in outdoor activities, and create lasting memories.

Day 1: Departure and Arrival

On the morning of the 11th of July, our eager group of students, accompanied by dedicated staff members, departed from school premises. The journey to Jindabyne was filled with anticipation and excitement. Upon arrival, we were greeted by breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscape, setting the perfect tone for our adventure ahead.

Day 2: Hitting the slopes

The second day marked the beginning of our skiing and snowboarding activities. Students were divided into groups based on their experience levels, ensuring everyone had a safe and enjoyable learning experience. Under the guidance of qualified instructors, beginners learned the basics while seasoned participants honed their skills on the slopes. Laughter and cheers filled the air as students embraced the thrill of gliding down the pristine snow on a perfect blue sky day.

Day 3: Practice makes perfect

Sunday brought a change of pace with students honing their skills and some even mastering them. The weather was a vast difference to the previous day with the clouds blanketing the sun and the winds picking up. Students had some more free time to explore Smiggins and Perisher with their mates but thankfully they all came back in one piece. 

Conclusion

The Perisher Snow Fields trip was not only a thrilling adventure but also a valuable educational experience. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, students developed resilience, teamwork, and appreciation for nature. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all staff members, instructors, and students whose dedication made this trip possible.

Aaron Campbell

The girls from Bede Polding have won the Sydney West competition in the Bill Turner Trophy! With an emphatic 6-1 win over last year’s area champions Rouse Hill Anglican College Term 2. 

Outlasting 16 teams in a knockout style tournament, the girls should be super proud of themselves, they showed class in all their victories as well as plenty of resilience throughout the first 4 games. 

They now advance to the champions stage of the Competition where they will face off against other area winners.

This is the furthest these girls have made it in this completion, some of them playing in their 3rd and final year this year. 

Big shoutout to Mr Dean Bertenshaw, for his continued support and organisation of our games! 

- Mr Ball

Round 5 VS MCHF

Juniors Win 20-16

The junior boys finished off the season with an entertaining win. It was a game of back and forth against the opposition, but some hard running by Cade Smith, good service from Caylum Sammut and good direction from Riley Swift led the team to victory. 

Junior Boys / IB RUGBY LEAGUE

Inters Lost 30-10

Without 6 starting players due to injury, the boys were faced with all playing a full game with no reserves. They fought hard and tried their best but unfortunately couldn't prevail. Some tough tackling from Sete Manu and Leo Farrugia were valiant in defeat. Luckily this is the boys only loss of the season so are looking to bounce back in the finals next week.

- Aaron Campbell 

Welcome Back, Year 7 – Starting Strong Together

Welcome back to Term 3! We are thrilled to see our Year 7 students return with enthusiasm, ready to learn and grow. Starting a new term is a fantastic opportunity to reset, build strong habits, and connect with classmates and teachers in positive and respectful ways.

Taronga Zoo Trip – A Day to Remember

We were so proud of our Year 7 students during our recent excursion to Taronga Zoo. Their behaviour was outstanding, and they represented our school with maturity and kindness. From learning about animal conservation to marvelling at the breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, students were engaged, respectful and thoroughly enjoyed the day. Thank you to all the staff and to Taronga Zoo. 

Upcoming Excursions – History and Geography in Action

• Blue Mountains Geography Field Trip – Students will explore natural landscapes, erosion, and environmental management in one of NSW’s most stunning regions.
  
  
• Chau Chak Wing Museum History Excursion – Students will walk through ancient artefacts and exhibitions that support their historical inquiry and critical thinking.
  

Both experiences promise to be educational and engaging, and we look forward to seeing our students shine as respectful and curious learners once again.

Vinnies Winter Sleepout – Walking in Someone Else’s Shoes

This term, our students will also have the opportunity to take part in the Vinnies Winter Sleepout, a powerful social justice initiative that raises awareness and funds for Australians experiencing homelessness. While students will not sleep outdoors overnight, they will take part in activities that simulate aspects of homelessness and deepen their understanding of disadvantage.

We encourage all Year 7 students to participate with open hearts and minds, and to consider how small actions—like giving, listening and advocating—can make a big difference. It's an important reminder of the compassion we can extend beyond the school gates.

Let’s make this term one to remember—by working hard, being kind, and supporting each other every step of the way.

Building Good Study Habits

As students settle back into school routines, it’s a great time to develop strong study habits. Regular homework time, setting achievable goals, keeping organised folders, and using a planner can make a big difference. Encouraging your child to review their notes each week and to ask for help when needed builds both confidence and independence. Consistency is key; small efforts each day are far more effective than last-minute assignments and study.

Being Kind: The Long-Term Impact of Bullying

Unfortunately, bullying remains a serious issue for many young people. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, around 1 in 5 Australian students aged 12–17 experience bullying on a regular basis. Bullying not only affects a child’s school life, but it can have long-term impacts on mental health, self-esteem and academic success.

As a school community, we believe in building each other up. We want students to understand that kindness, empathy, and standing up for others are lifelong values. By choosing kindness, we create a safer and more connected environment for all.

Where to Get Help – You're Not Alone

If your child is experiencing bullying or struggling socially, it's important they know help is available. Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) offers 24/7 confidential support to young people, while Bullying. No Way! provides information and action plans for students, families and schools. Parents looking for guidance can contact Parentline (1300 1300 52) for confidential advice. No one should face bullying alone—support is just a phone call or click away. Visit www.bullyingnoway.gov.au or www.kidshelpline.com.au to learn more

Talking with Your Child About Character and Calling Out Bullying

Parents and carers play a vital role in helping children grow into respectful and compassionate young people. Take time to talk with your child about what it means to be a good person—how we treat others when no one is watching, how we include others, and how we speak up when someone is treated unfairly.

Teach them that calling out bullying doesn’t mean being confrontational—it means being brave, speaking to a trusted adult, and standing in solidarity with others. Together, we can nurture a culture where kindness is the norm, and everyone feels safe.

Respectful Learners Make the Best Learners

Being a good student goes far beyond finishing worksheets. It’s about being respectful to teachers, peers, and the learning environment. This means listening without interrupting, following instructions, working collaboratively, and owning up to mistakes when they happen.

In Year 7, we encourage students to take responsibility for their learning by arriving on time, coming prepared, and engaging with the content. A positive attitude and polite behaviour in class sets the tone for success—not just now, but for all future years of learning.

Upcoming Events and Dates

• Science Week 2025 11 August 2025– 16 August 2025.
• Yr 7 Geography & History S2 excursion (all Yr 7) 13 August Wednesday. 
• Vinnies Winter Appeal will take place in Weeks 4 & 5 and conclude with our Vinnies Winter Sleepout on Friday 22nd August, Week 5, Term 3.
• Father's Day Mass- 5th September.

Miss Morgan Wearne

Year 7 Leader of Wellbeing

Success is not created with talent alone. We can control many things in our lives through consistency and “having a go”. Five things that require no talent at all, but will undoubtedly shape positive identities for ourselves not only as students but as members of society are:

1. Being on time
2. Being kind
3. Effort
4. Body language
5. Attitude

Our cohort continues to focus on the things that take no talent as an underlying theme. Year 9 is encouraged to remind themselves of those things, which when applied consistently both at school and in your personal life, will make each day easier and provide buffers for when challenges arise.

We have seen a number of achievements throughout Term 2 and already at the beginning of Term 3. Several Year 9 girls were involved in the Bill Turner Trophy Football squad. The Bill Turner Trophy is a national football competition for U/15 girls, held as a knockout. Bede Polding first participated in the Sydney West area pool. Our results were:

• Round 1 BPC (7) v Winmalee HS (2)
• Round 2 BPC (4) v Santa Sophia (1)
• Round 3 BPC (6) v Blaxland HS (2)
• Round 4 BPC (6) v Rouse Hill Anglican (1)

After round 4, our talented girls were crowned Area Champions, which is a massive achievement. Following this, the competition goes into a Round of 32, with all area champions competing against each other. We came up against Freeman Catholic College, and although they played with a huge heart and skill, they unfortunately came away with a 1-0 defeat. The Year 9 students who played were Zahlia Baldacchino, Anika Chadevski, Emily Dawson and Lace Duffy. We are very proud of your efforts.

During the term break, Marissa Kaaoui represented Australia in the US Open ISKA World Martial Arts Championships at Orlando, Florida. In that tournament, Marissa competed against a number of competitors from around the world. We are extremely proud to report that Marissa achieved the following results:

• 4th Place Traditional Forms
• 2nd Place Sword Combat
• 4th place Hand Power Break
• 5th Place Weapons

Very well done Marissa!

Leader of Wellbeing Year 9

Matthew Marshall

Year 12 Visual Arts

Year 12 Visual Arts students participated in a Body of Work Progress Evening on Wednesday, 11th June. The purpose of this evening is to provide students with feedback from colleagues from other CSDP schools, to assist with the development and refinement of skills for the Body of Work. This evening is part of the Artist in Residence program, with Johnny Romeo as MC and mentor for the students. It was wonderful to have parents in attendance to hear students discuss their artmaking practice and receive invaluable feedback to assist with the completion of their work for the HSC practical examination. Congratulations to Year 12 and Ms. Leach for their work in preparation for their evening.

Year 9 Drama Excursion- Annie

On Thursday, 19th June, the Year 9 Drama class travelled to the city to watch the production of ‘Annie’, as an introduction to studying musical theatre next term. Students were asked to reflect on their knowledge of Commedia dell'arte and the stock characters studied in Term 2, to link their learning experiences. Thank you to Miss Stinten for organising a wonderful day, which was enjoyed by everyone!

Today we went to see Annie the musical at the Capitol Theatre. In my opinion, three of the best parts of the musical were when the soldier came out and did his little jig on stage, which was very funny to watch. Another one of my favourite parts was when they were in New York and they were all singing and dancing with brightly coloured backgrounds as they showed old-fashioned styles from New York. 

Some links I made to Commedia Dell’arte stock characters were that the soldier would jump around a lot, similar to Arlecchino, and Rooster and his wife were like Capitano and Pantalone because they wanted money and were willing to drag Mrs Hannigan down with them when they got caught.

It was amazing to see how technology helped with the set and how it would change the stage. We watched detailed backdrops be lowered from above the stage to make quick and flawless scene changes.

Makayla

On the 19th June we went into the city via train to see the musical Annie.

What were my favourite parts of the musical? The incorporation of new songs in the live musical compared to the movie was incredible, and how well they worked with the storyline. Another amazing part was how the production included a real dog to play Sandy. Seeing that in a musical was truly amazing. The combination of dance, singing, and dialogue flowed so well together, which is another attribute I enjoyed. 

The connections that I could make to my stock character included the messenger for the President who would do these little jumps and strange movements, making him a comedic character, although not having a main part. He displayed Arlecchino in many ways.

Elissa

Semester 1 Creative & Performing Arts Showcase

On Wednesday 18th June, Creative and Performing Arts students showcased their classroom learning for Semester 1. Visual Arts & Photography & Digital Media students exhibited a range of artworks and photographic images, while Years  9 and 11 Drama students entertained with Commedia dell'Arte and group-devised performances. Music sets featured both performances and compositions from Stage 5 and 6 elective Music courses. 

Thank you to Jack Soriano-McKinnon, Montana Beattie-Charles, and Elaina Teuma for MCing the evening, and the CAPA Crew for assisting with the organisation of the event.

Congratulations to all students and their teachers on what was a wonderful celebration of creativity and learning.

Miss Angela Rando

Leader of Learning - Creative & Performing Arts

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/

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Please click on Opal card to Transport NSW

Please click on link to Replace a OPAL card 

Please click here to view the email addresses of our teaching staff.

Please see attached letter detailing select bus service changes that will directly impact students attending your school commencing Monday 30^th June 2025.

NEW Busways timetable attached that comes into effect Monday 30 June 2025.

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.