St Benedict's Catholic College
Newsletter - Friday 1 December 2023
This Sunday the 3 December marks the start of Advent with the lighting of the first Advent candle, sometimes called the "Prophets Candle‘’. This Prophets candle symbolises our Hope and that Jesus is coming.
Parent Teacher Conferences
The College recognises the importance of effective communication between parents and teachers and all parents and carers are encouraged to discuss their child’s progress at any time during the year. As we come to the end of the academic school year here will be an opportunity for parents to book in for Parent Teacher Meetings via Zoom on Thursday 14 (12pm - 2.30pm) and Friday 15 December (8am - 12.30pm).
Students whose parents stay involved in their education have better attendance and are more likely to develop a lifelong love of learning, which educational researchers say is key to long-term success.
Some questions that you may like to ask at parent teacher meetings:
- What suggestions do you have for me to help my child improve/extend their learning?
- What has my child’s biggest success or achievement been this semester?
- What can I be doing at home to support my child with their learning?
- What advice would you give my child in this subject as they progress to the next year/stage?
- How involved are they in class discussion?
Traffic and Pedestrian Safety for Students
St Benedict’s is situated in a very busy precinct surrounded by high populated housing and thus traffic and road safety is non–negotiable for all. In particular, I would like to remind all students exiting and entering the College into Hollows Drive to use the school crossing. The school crossing is a clearly marked zone, signalling to drivers that students may be crossing.
By using it, students make themselves more visible, reducing the likelihood of accidents. I would also ask that parents who are collecting students from this area to remind their children about using the crossing. Using the school crossing sets an example for younger students and reinforces the sense of community responsibility. We are not just individuals; we are part of a collective effort to keep our school environment safe.
Could we also remind parents about the importance of complying to traffic signs and rules around the school crossing area around Hollows Drive.
Tips for Safe Crossings:
- Before stepping onto the crossing, make sure to stop and check for oncoming traffic. Look left, right, and left again. Listen for any approaching vehicles.
- Even with the right of way, it's essential to cross with caution. Make eye contact with drivers, and only proceed when you're certain they've seen you.
- When using the crossing, stay within the marked lines. This not only ensures you're in the safest part of the road but also sets a clear path for drivers.
- Put away your phone or any other distractions when crossing the road. Paying attention to your surroundings is crucial for your safety.
Warm regards
Mrs Kerrie Piatek
Principal
Friday 1st December 2023 - can you believe it? It is also one of my favourite times of the year.
Advent begins this Sunday. Advent marks the beginning of the Church’s new year and is a season of waiting and preparation. In fact, the season of Advent focuses on Christ’s threefold coming—past, present and future. We await and prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ at Christmas. We hope and give thanks for Christ’s presence in us and in the Word and sacraments. We look to the future, waiting for Christ to come again.
God of Hope, Hopeful God,
As we wait this Advent, we wait in wonder at what the world might be:
a place of welcome and wellbeing, where everyone has what they need to live fully.
As we wait this Advent, we also pray:
for all in our human family who, care for each other and our common home,
in hope for a better life, rich with possibility. God, help us share your hope.
Amen
Advent is such a busy time of year and we so easily forget that—at its heart—it is meant to be a time of preparation, waiting and hope for the coming of Jesus into our world and lives.
To remind us of this, for over 10 years now, the diocese has published an annual Advent and Christmas Program that provides an opportunity for us to be still each day, listen to God, and come to know that Jesus is the whole reason for our being. Like Mary proclaimed in her Magnificat:
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord.”
LUKE 1:46
The Advent Program is a pocket-sized book that includes daily reflections from the beginning of Advent to the Baptism of the Lord. The book also includes beautiful artwork from the Masters with accompanying artwork reflections.
These little books continue to grow in popularity with 30,000 copies sold each year throughout Australia and increasingly around the world. The books are also given for free to thousands of inmates in prisons throughout Australia as an outreach program. Many customers buy bulk copies of the book for family, friends and work colleagues as an alternative to Christmas cards and gifts. We include a page in the book for you to write your gift message.
I have also included the new DECEMBER Action for Happiness Calendar - DO GOOD
UPDATE ON FR DAVID
Thank you to those who have been praying the Novena Prayers for Fr David through the intercession of both St Mary MacKillop and the Servant of God Eileen O’Connor.
Despite some expected chemo side effects, Fr David is travelling ok. His next chemo session is on Wednesday 6th December.
The special Novena Prayer leaflet to St Mary MacKillop and Eileen O’Connor can still be downloaded from the Parish Website: bit.ly/frdavidnovena
Please continue to pray for Fr David during his chemotherapy.
Director of Mission and Vision,
Religious Education Coordinator
Information in this calendar list is correct at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice.
TERM 4
- Friday 8 December - Year 7 Water Safety / Lifesaving Program
- Friday 8 December - MACFEST - 1pm to 9pm
- Monday 11 December - Last day for Years 10 & 11
- Wednesday 13 December - Students Activity Day
- Thursday 14 December - Last day for Years 7, 8 & 9 / Parent Teacher Interviews Years 7 to 10 (12.00pm - 2.30pm via zoom)
- Friday 15 December - Parent Teacher Interviews via zoom Years 7 to 10 (8am - 12.30pm)
TERM 1 - 2024
- Wednesday 31 January - Year 12 ONLY first day (Sports Uniform)
- Thursday 1 February - Year 7 & 11 ONLY first day (Summer Uniform)
- Friday 2 February - Years 8, 9 & 10 first day (Summer Uniform)
Director of Teaching and Learning
MACFEST - Event reminder
The College still has a number of students, in years 10 & 11, who have expressed interest to attend MACFEST however we are waiting on parent consent. Please ensure parents consent to this event by Monday 4 December. Failure to do so will result in your student not attending the event.
The Visual Art Department would like to invite you to our Art Exhibition on Monday 4 December 2023 from 4pm to 6pm.
Artworks and photographs created by our wonderful students will be on display from Year 7 to Year 12. All works can be seen throughout the J Block and C Block. We look forward to showcasing our talented students with our school community.
NUMERACY ZONE - WEEK 8
Mathematics, often seen as an abstract and complex subject, might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about entertainment. However, mathematics has made its way into pop culture in surprising and entertaining ways. From movies to TV shows and books, mathematics has been portrayed in a variety of contexts, often making the subject more accessible and enjoyable for the general audience. Perhaps this can be a weekend watch?
"Good Will Hunting": The Triumph of Raw Talent
The 1997 film "Good Will Hunting" starring Matt Damon and Robin Williams is a prime example of mathematics in pop culture. The film tells the story of a young janitor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology who secretly solves a complex mathematical problem left on a chalkboard. This portrayal of a self-taught mathematical genius highlights the idea that mathematical talent can be found in unexpected places, even in the least likely individuals. The film showcases the beauty of mathematical discovery and the transformative power of education.
"The Big Bang Theory": Nerd Culture and Humor
One of my ultimate favourites - the long-running TV show "The Big Bang Theory" revolves around a group of socially awkward scientists, including physicists and engineers. The show blends humour with intricate mathematical and scientific concepts, making them accessible and entertaining for a broader audience. The characters often engage in playful debates about mathematical problems. This show has not only made mathematics and science more relatable but has also helped debunk "nerd" culture.
Mathematics in pop culture helps bridge the gap between the academic world and the general public. It humanises mathematicians, showcasing their struggles and triumphs. It also demonstrates that maths is not just a subject confined to textbooks but a vibrant field with real-world applications and implications. Whether through films like "Good Will Hunting," TV shows like "The Big Bang Theory," mathematics in pop culture makes the subject approachable, relatable, and, above all, entertaining. It has the power to inspire people to explore the beauty of mathematics and appreciate its role in our lives, making it more than just a subject to study but a part of our culture to enjoy and celebrate.
Thank you and Santa is back on Monday lunch
A massive thank you from the Social Justice team for supporting Santa's visit. He'll be back again on Monday Lunch if you missed out. Full school summer uniform is to be worn.
Santa photos will be sent out next week to the nominated emails.
Today 10.1 & 10.2 Food Technology classes merge two schools together "St Benedict's and Mater Dei" to celebrate Christmas in a unit we have been studying "Food for Special Occasions". The Christmas-themed High Tea created a welcoming setting for students and educators to get together for afternoon tea and foster conversations that allowed new friendships to develop. This day was also an excellent opportunity to merge both Food Technology classes to cater for an event like the Industry would. 10.1 & 10.2 would like to thank Mrs Brown, Mrs. Reveall, Mrs. Simich, Mrs. McFarlene, Mrs. Ryan, and the Learning Support team for assisting us in making this day possible.
The SBCC Video Game Club held its first ever Staff VS Students Mario Kart Tournament this week. There was strong competition from all involved, and plenty of spectators coming to support both the staff and student teams. The final race was a great event, and we would like to congratulate Ethan Caruana from Year 8 on winning! Thanks again to all involved from both teams for supporting the club!!
Keep an eye out for future events next year!
On Tuesday of Week 6, 7 Year 12 students embarked on the Girls on Fire course at the New South Wales Rural Fire Service training facility at Kemps Creek. The course has been designed by agencies such as Fire and Rescue New South Wales, New South Wales Rural Fire Service and National Parks Fire Service to educate girls on the types of roles they could fulfil within organisations such as these.
The day was filled with hands-on experiences designed to give the girls a sense of what being part of an emergency service could be really like. These included using extinguishes and fire blankets to extinguish fires, operating fire hoses and conducting a simulated rescue.
The girls were sensational ambassadors for the College and many are thinking about a career in the firefighting industry.
On Tuesday 28 November all of our Term 4 MISA sports were involved in finals week. This term St Benedict’s had two teams make it through to the Grand Final. Congratulations to the Year 7 - 9 Boys AFL team coached by Ms Lorking and Mr Sapienza who defeated the minor premiers WAC 38 - 23. Unfortunately, due to an issue with the field at Cowpasture there was no game played in the Year 7 - 9 Girls Softball grand final. We are waiting on an update if this game will be rescheduled.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the following staff members for their continued dedication and commitment in coaching our Term 4 MISA teams. Quite often giving up their mornings, recesses, lunch times and afternoons to make sure our students are prepared each week to represent the College to the best of their ability and create team spirit. A big thank you to the following MISA coaches in Term 4: Ms Loudoun, Mr Agoo, Mr Ripepi, Ms Mora, Ms Hawkins, Ms Hills, Ms Lorking, Mr Sapienza, Mr Arcuri, Mr Rushworth and Mr Limbrey. We also had quite a number of teachers fill in across the term to ensure games were still able to take place each week throughout the term.
Year 7 - 9 MISA Boys AFL
The weather was against us in the beginning but thankfully held off enough to get the game in against the only team to have defeated us back in round 1. The boys were nervous but excited to get out on the field and win their first AFL grand final. A brief warmup first to get ready to play in the wet conditions for the first time.
The boys played with intensity and a clinical approach which gave them the lead when they were first on the scoreboard. They continued to work together and back each other up, some of the best teamwork I have seen from this group, it was clear they really wanted the win. Half time came around and we were up 20-6, but this was not enough so they went back out for the second half ready to bring the trophy home. When the final whistle blew and the boys knew they had won the game, the smiles could not be wiped off their face as they embraced one another.
Honourable mentions go to Koby Raetz for scoring 3 goals on the day, Luke Rainbow for leading the defensive third and to the team captain, Tom Beveridge who was voted best on ground for the grand final for his all-rounder ability on the field.
It has been a pleasure coaching these boys for the term and seeing the growth they have made in each and every game. Some highlights are: Sam Binskin scoring 7 goals in the semi-final against OPAC; Pedro’s incredible performance in the ruck through the season; and Jack Gogarty’s speed around the mid-field; I look forward to seeing what they can bring to the competition next year.
Thank You - Tracy & Francine
The P&F, on behalf of the parents and school community, would like to thank Tracy Malcaus and Francine Axisa for their hard work in the Uniform Shop this year. They have dedicated lots of hours to filling orders, sorting through all the stock and keeping it very organised. We have arranged a small ‘thank you’ gift to show our appreciation of all they have done. Thank you ladies! We really appreciate your time and hard work.
There are local employment vacancies available, please click on the above link to see the Careers website or Mrs Brown for more information.
PAYMENT OF SCHOOL FEES BY INSTALMENTS
EXISTING FAMILIES IN OUR SCHOOL WITH INSTALMENTS
If you are currently paying by instalments there is no need to complete another Request to Pay by Instalment as your request carries over from year to year unless you wish to amend the frequency of your payments eg Weekly to Fortnightly
EXISTING FAMILIES IN OUR SCHOOL WITHOUT INSTALMENTS
If you would like to pay school fees by instalments in 2024 and have previously not taken up this option for payment, please complete a Request to Pay by Instalment Form before the start of Term 1 2024 which is attached and also available from the school’s office. On completion of the request either email it to instalments@dow.catholic.edu.au or submit at the school office. Following receipt of the request, instalments will be generated on your school fee account during the process of invoicing 2024 school fees. Your school fee statement will provide a list of scheduled payments and their due date depending on the frequency you have chosen eg Fortnightly, Monthly, etc.
IMPORTANT: Please note that if you currently have a child or children at another school in the Diocese and you are paying by instalments at this location, you will not need to complete another Request to Pay by Instalment. The instalment request carries over from school to school with the same frequency of payment eg Weekly, fortnightly, etc.
PAYMENT OF SCHOOL FEES BY INSTALMENTS – NEW FAMILIES TO OUR SCHOOL
School Fees are invoiced as an annual account, due for payment in full 30 days after invoicing. However, many families elect to pay their school fees by regular instalments and as a new family to our school, we would like to offer you this option. If you wish to take up this offer, please complete a Request to Pay by Instalment Form before the start of Term 1 2024 which is attached and also available from the school’s office. On completion of the request, either email it to instalments@dow.catholic.edu.au or submit at the school office. Following receipt of the request, instalments will be generated on your school fee account during the process of invoicing 2024 school fees. Your school fee statements are emailed to you and they will provide a list of scheduled payments and their due date.
IMPORTANT: Please note that if you currently have a child or children at another school in the Diocese and you are paying by instalments at this location, you will not need to complete another Request to Pay by Instalment. The instalment request carries over from school to school with the same frequency of payment eg Weekly, fortnightly, etc.
Download the Emergency Plus App
Emergency Plus - Save the App that could save your life
Staff recently updated their skills with CPR and anaphylaxis training. One key feature we all walk away with is a new App called Emergency Plus. The Emergency+ app is a free app developed by Australia’s emergency services and their Government and industry partners. The app uses GPS functionality built into smart phones to help a Triple Zero (000) caller provide critical location details required to mobilise emergency services.The app uses a mobile phone's GPS functionality and what3words (proprietary geocode system designed to identify any location), so callers can provide emergency call-takers with their location information as determined by their smart phone.
Made Fresh - School Canteen (Closing and Opening Days)
- Monday 11 December - Canteen Open
- Tuesday 12 December - Canteen Open
- Wednesday 13 December - Canteen Closed
- Thursday 14 December - Canteen Closed
- Friday 15 December - Canteen Closed
Please find below the 2024 Canteen Menu.
Application for Extended Leave
Any parent requesting leave for their child for 10 or more consecutive days is required to complete an Application for Extended Leave Form. These are available from the school office or can be downloaded from Compass. To ensure approval is granted before the leave takes place, we require the completed form to be lodged at the school office a minimum of 2 weeks before the leave commences. Please complete one application per student.
Lost property
We have a number of items that have no names on them. If you have lost anything at school please go the the administration office to collect your items. Items include:
- Glasses
- Water bottles
- Jewellery
- Sports jackets
2024 school travel applications are now open
Students who need a new or replacement School Opal card or travel pass for 2024 can apply now. A new application will need to be submitted if they are applying for the first time, or if they are requesting an additional travel entitlement because of a new shared parental arrangement (e.g. joint custody).
Please refer to the below attached '2023 Term 4_parentinformation_newsletter.' This provides you with the steps required to apply for a new card or replacement School Opal Card.
How to order a Compass Card
It has come to the attention of Executive staff that a number of students are turning up to school late without their Compass card. This card is compulsory for all students attending the College. If your child/s has lost their Compass card, please follow the steps below via Compass to order a new one.
1. Log onto Compass under the parent
2. On the right hand side you will see a 'clog' symbol.
3. Click on this 'clog' symbol and select 'CompassIdentity Card'
4. At the top you will see a 'Order new card'. Click on the highlighted blue text
5. Follow the steps to order a new card, including payment.
6. Once ordered the school will received the new Compass card and we will advise the student when its available for collection. This can take up to 2 weeks to arrive.
7. When the Compass Card arrives, make sure you log back into Flexischools to update the number to your child/s card. FlexiSchools services at St. Benedict's Catholic College is utilising the full 10-digit number on the Compass Card. To be able to continue using the Cashless Canteen at the College you will be required to update your students card to 10-digits. Instructions below.
SCHOOL CLOTHING POOL
College P & F Uniform Pool orders
P & F Uniform Pool order form 2023 - click here
The P & F preloved Uniform Pool has reopened, please complete the order form and send to the P & F by email at: uniforms@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au Our wonderful P&F volunteer Tracey will contact you.
Items can be paid for and collected from the SBCC College Office. We do not return, exchange or refund on 2nd hand clothing as these are donated by families.
Donations of items in good condition can be left at the College Office.
2024 price list has now being finalised. Please see attached the price list.