St Benedict's Catholic College

As we head into the final stretch of the year, it’s amazing to see so many of our students reaching important milestones and taking on new challenges. I’d like to take a moment to recognise all the hard work, growth, and achievements happening across the year groups.

A huge congratulations to our Year 12s for wrapping up your HSC exams! This is a big moment, and we couldn’t be prouder. Your resilience and dedication have been impressive. We’re looking forward to celebrating with you at the Year 12 Formal – it’s going to be an unforgettable night, and you’ve definitely earned it!

Well done to our Year 11 students on a successful retreat! I’ve heard great things about the experience, and I hope you enjoyed the time to reflect, connect, and recharge. This was an important step as you gear up for Year 12, and I’m confident you’re ready for the journey ahead.

Well done to Year 10 for getting through your exam block. It’s fantastic to see how focused you’ve been, and I know these study skills will be invaluable as you move into your senior years. Keep up the great work.

And to our Year 9s, we’re keeping you in our prayers as you prepare for your exams next week. Remember to stay calm, do your best, and trust in all the hard work you’ve put in this year. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Thank you to all our students, staff, and families for everything you do to make St Benedict’s such a wonderful community. Let’s keep up the positive energy as we close out the term strong.

Kind regards,
Michael Turner

As we move into the second half of the Term, I would like to thank all members of the community for their assistance with HSC exams as well as their preparation for assessment tasks. In the coming weeks, staff will be preparing end of year reports and parents will see these later in the term.

There are some reminders and items for Term 4 below:

Student Leadership

This week, students were introduced to the student leadership options for 2025. Social Justice, Youth Ministry and House Leadership were launched. Each of these positions and groups form a crucial element of our College and develop not only the sense of community, but espouse the values which we hold as a Catholic community. Students who are interested in either or all of these groups should contact the relevant teacher to join.

Phones and Devices

Parents are reminded that students are not to have their mobile phone, air pods or other devices with them at school. If they do have these, items must be placed in their lockers and not taken to classes or out to breaks. Students caught with these will have them confiscated and placed in the office for collection.

Opal Cards and Buses

With an increasing school population, our College bus services are becoming rather crowded. When we speak with the bus companies about this, we are repeatedly told that our students are not filling buses and this is based on the opal data collected. Students are reminded that they MUST tap on when entering school bus services in order to be able to travel safely to and from the College each day.

Activity Day

End of Year Activities Day is scheduled for Tuesday 17 December 2024, at the beautiful Austinmer Beach. This event marks a joyful conclusion to the school year and provides a wonderful opportunity for students to bond, engage in fun activities, and celebrate their hard work and achievements.

Students can look forward to a variety of exciting activities including:

• Ball games on the sand (The College will provide balls for soccer and touch football, frisbees and big beach balls).

• Supervised swimming in the ocean pools.

The cost of the event is $18. This nominal fee covers the cost of transportation and no other additional charges for the picnic day activities themselves.

An early payment method has been set up for parents to make payment at any time, however, refunds will not be provided after payment has been made. Payment and Consent for this day are due by November 29th. Late permission will not be granted and students will be unable to leave the College site that day.

Important Dates

November 12 Year 12 Formal

November 15 Staff Development Day (Pupil Free Day)

November 18 Year 9 Reflection Day

November 20 Year 7 2025 Orientation Evening

November 22 Year 7 2025 Orientation Day

December 6 Year 8 Science Excursion

December 17 Student Activity Day

Kind regards,

John Wheeler

Day 1 of the Senior Retreat was a meaningful start for Year 12 students from St. Benedict’s College, centered on the theme drawn from *Matthew 6:21*: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” This guiding verse encouraged students to explore what they value most and to reflect on the treasures they want to carry forward in life.

The day began with a reflection session where teachers invited students to examine their goals, friendships, and faith. Through group discussions and individual journaling exercises, students delved into their “Signposts and Crossroads,” marking moments of choice and reflection. These moments served as guideposts for their journey, challenging them to think about where they truly place their hearts and priorities.

In the afternoon, students took part in an “Amazing Race” activity. Designed to emphasise teamwork, the race featured stations around the retreat grounds, each with a symbolic task to reinforce lessons of trust, perseverance, and joy in shared experiences.

Creativity came into play as students painted “gift boxes,” each box representing the unique talents they carry into the world. This activity served as a tangible reminder of the personal treasures they hope to cultivate and share.

The day concluded with a candlelight service, allowing students to pause, reflect, and give thanks.

United by the retreat’s theme, they left Day 1 feeling connected and uplifted, eager to continue their journey over the next two days.

Wishing everyone a blessed term,

Kimberley Logue

This year we had a record number of students elect to sit International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS). Developed by the University of NSW, the Assessments are designed to target students’ higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills. The fully online assessments are designed to recognise and reward academic excellence.

Congratulations to the following students for achieving a distinction for the following exams. A distinction award means that the student is in the top 10% of all participants.

Congratulations to the following students for achieving a credit for the following exams. A credit award means that the student is in the next 25% of all participants.

Congratulations to the following students for achieving a merit for the following exams. A merit award means that the student is in the next 10% of all participants.

On Monday 4 November we had our very first team compete in the Middle School Ethics Olympiad. This competition provides schools with a unique opportunity to develop skills in critical thinking, collaboration and communication. It is designed to get students thinking and ultimately working together on some of the tough moral issues of our time. Students work on preparing ethical viewpoints on interesting moral dilemmas and are required to communicate these arguments to their opposing team. Unlike a traditional debate, teams do not have to argue for or against an issue, rather convince the judges of the moral superiority of their view.

The Year 7 & 8 students who participated demonstrated outstanding engagement and teamwork. They were faced with many challenging dilemmas, including a scenario in which the year is 2050 and all teachers are being replaced by advanced AI bots. Their arguments were well thought out and confidently delivered, earning them an honourable mention from the judges.

Congratulations to the team:

• Kieran B (Year 7) - "For me, I like how the Ethics Olympiad really opened me up to different perspectives and angles of People all over Australia!"

• Lorelei C (Year 8) - “My highlight from the ethics competition was presenting Case 5: The ethics of using AI Predictive Algorithms in Parole Decisions“

• Reeva K (Year 8) - “I really liked the opportunity to be able to meet other schools and share our opinions on a case”

• Elizabeth R (Year 8) - “I really enjoyed going against other schools and hearing their perspectives”

• Emma S (Year 8) - "I really liked how we all got to work as a team and gained important skills that will be useful later on in life"
  
  

Special thanks goes to Mrs Baker and Mrs Dos Reis for helping the team prepare!

Kind regards,

Marc Ghignone

Guidelines for Notes from Home: What Information is Essential?

At our school, we understand that sometimes students may need to come to school without being in full uniform or may require special considerations. When such instances arise, it’s important for families to provide clear and detailed notes to ensure smooth communication and understanding.

We have noticed that some notes are missing key information, which can make it difficult for teachers and staff to support students effectively. To help streamline this process, here are the essential elements that should be included in any note coming from home:

1. Date of the Note

Each note should clearly indicate the date it was written. This helps us keep track of when the issue was reported and ensures that we are working with the most up-to-date information.

2. Student’s Full Name and Class

Please include your child’s full name and the class they are in. This helps teachers and staff quickly identify the student, especially when notes are handed in during busy times.

3. Reason for the Note

A clear explanation of the issue is crucial. For example, if your child is out of uniform, kindly state why this is the case (e.g., uniform items are being washed, lost items, awaiting new purchases, etc.).

4. Expected Date of Resolution

It’s important to provide a timeframe for when the issue will be resolved. For example, if your child is missing part of their uniform, please include when you expect they will be back in full uniform (e.g., "New shoes will be purchased by Friday, October 27).

5. Contact Information

In case we need further clarification, please provide a phone number or email address where you can be reached.

By providing all this information, you help the school respond quickly and appropriately to your child’s needs. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding!

Kind regards,

Teresa Holland

Term 4

• Monday 11 to Friday 15 - Year 9 Exam Block
• Tuesday 12 November - Year 11 Presentation of Awards
• Tuesday 12 November - Year 12 Formal
• Tuesday 12 November - Year 10 & 11 Interfaith Encounter
• Thursday 14 November - Year 11 Geography Excursion
• Friday 15 November - Staff Development Day (Pupil Free Day)
• Monday 18 November - Year 9 Reflection Day
• Wednesday 20 November - Year 7 (2025) Orientation Evening
• Wednesday 20 November - Year 11 Legal Studies Excursion
• Thursday 21 November - Year 11 Modern History Excursion
• Friday 22 November - Year 7 (2025) Orientation Day

IMPORTANT DATES

• Tuesday 17 December - Last day of Term 4 for students

In Week 3, 24 enthusiastic participants, accompanied by 5 dedicated staff members, embarked on an unforgettable adventure as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Program. The journey was packed with challenges, camaraderie, and plenty of fun!

Over the course of three days, our silver participants undertook a gruelling 30km trek, which included tackling a steep 192m incline after leaving our first campsite. Both Bronze and Silver participants faced this challenge head-on, showcasing their determination and resilience.

The adventure began with all staff and participants meeting at Macarthur Train Station. From here, we jumped on and were transported to the picturesque Mount Kuring-Gai. After a day of trekking (which included two heavy falls from Mr Sapienza and Mr Ripepi), we set up camp at Crosslands Reserve, where the group settled in for a night filled with laughter and bonding. The next day, as the sun rose we continued our great north walk and we even made a furry friend—a dog named Redge, who brightened our days! We soon said our farewell to the Bronze participants who were departing at Hornsby Station, while the Silver group pressed on into the wild, leech-infested Jungo campsite, adding an extra layer of excitement to our journey!

We were thrilled to welcome local firefighters from the RFS, who cleared any worries and stress from the teachers of smoke. Our evenings were filled with games of Uno, singing and some interesting stories. The spirit of teamwork was palpable as we cooked our meals together.

Thank you to the staff who helped to facilitate the hike - Ms Lockhart, Mr Murray, Mr Rushworth and Mr Sapienza. The participants' experiences were made much better with all of your presence.

This experience was more than just a hike; it was a chance to challenge ourselves, forge new friendships, and create lasting memories.

If any students are interested in joining the Duke of Edinburgh Program, please speak to Mr Ripepi for more information. Don’t miss out on the chance to embark on your own adventurous journey!

Happy trekking!

We would like to thank the Parents and Friends Committee for purchasing durable display boards to help the CAPA department display our student’s artworks throughout the year.

These boards will also help to brighten up the visual arts walkway.

CAPA thanks you for your support.

BEARs (Bennie's Environmental Action Representatives) are focussing on the issue of food wastage by producing recipes that use common household leftovers. We're sharing them with you, so our community can work to waste less food!

Our second recipe gives you an idea of what you could make with leftover milk before it goes off.

Shimeka Hewawasam

Kind regards,

Erin Lockhart

BOOKFLIX is a collection of books that have been adapted for television and currently screened on Netflix. Come and see what’s trending in the Library!

You will be surprised to learn some of your favourite flix are based on books that we have in the Library waiting for you to borrow on demand!

On Monday 11 November we pause to observe Remembrance Day to recall the end of the First World War and to honour those who have died in the line of duty. The Library has a display of resources you can borrow to learn more about Remembrance Day.

The College’s new virtual reality (VR) headsets are changing how students experience history. In a recent class, students used VR to explore life during World War I, immersing themselves in realistic scenes like trenches and battlefields. They also explored the streets of Sarajevo to learn about the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife. Students learned about the events which unfolded on 28 June 1914, discovered the assassin, and found out how this event contributed as a cause to the First World War.

We hope to continue to utilise this new technology in more classes to provide immersive experiences for the students at St Benedict’s.

Happy Reading

The Library Team

Students who will not be returning to St Benedict's Catholic College in 2025 (excluding Year 12 students) are requested to send an email to our Enrolment Officer advising us of this change. Please email enrolments_sbcc@dow.catholic.edu.au

Step 1 - Register

Open your Flexischools app or use their website:

App Store - https://apps.apple.com/au/app/flexischools/id1420774608

Google Play - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?gl=US&hl=en_AU&id=com.flexischools
Website - https://user.flexischools.com.au/register

1. Submit your email to create an account

2. In your inbox, open the registration email

3. Click the link within and follow registration prompts in app

Step 2 - Setting up your child's details

Once your account is set up, log into your Flexischools app.

1. Select 'Profile' icon on the bottom right hand side of the screen

2. Under 'Students' click 'Add new'

3. Enter your child's name, school, year level, class & student card number*
* This card number is on the back of your child's Compass Card (10 digits)

Step 3 - Order and pay with ease!
Here's how to order food on Flexischools

1. Click 'Order food' top of app home screen

2. Select the student you'd like to order for

3. Choose a service (break 1 - recess) or (break 2 - lunch) and order date

4. Select any items you'd like to order

5. Once finished, click 'view order'

6. Select 'Checkout & pay' to place the order

When using the Compass App:

1. At the bottom of the screen, select the 'more' option

2. Select the 'Open in Browser' option

3. On the top right hand of the screen click the 'clog symbol'

4. A drop down menu appears and select 'CompassIdentity Card'

5. Click 'Order New Card'

5. Under 'Payment' click the 'Order Now' button

6. An $11.50 (including GST) fee applies and once paid it will take up to 7 school business days to arrive at school

7. The office will send an email to the student when it arrived and the student will need to collect from the Student Foyer.

Remember when the new Compass Card arrives, to update your 10 digit code on the back of the card with Flexischools.

This is a friendly reminder that students are not to carry medication with them on site, with the exemption of an EpiPen and/or Ventolin. If your child is required to take any medication during school hours this must be provided to the office by a parent/carer accompanied by the completed Request to Administer Medication Form attached below.

The Oztag boys showed incredible heart and determination in their match against MACC, despite a tough first-half deficit. Down 5-1 at halftime, the boys refused to give up and staged a dramatic comeback that kept everyone on the edge of their seats, ultimately falling just short with a final score of 10-8.

Despite the loss, the team's resilience was on full display. Standout performances came from Tyler Cameron and Noah Hooper, both of whom scored some spectacular tries, adding much-needed momentum in the second half. However, it was Callum Whittle with his deceptive play and impressive try-scoring ability.

The boys may have left the field with a loss, but they gained something even more valuable: respect and pride for their fighting spirit. The way they rallied together and never backed down from the challenge is a testament to their determination and team spirit. We look forward to seeing them continue to grow and improve as the season progresses.

Well done, boys! Keep up the great work and let's bring that energy to the next match!

This week showed a valiant effort from our SBCC Girls Volleyball team. Amidst having to navigate the challenges of an extremely high volleyball net as well as a very low roof (which we managed to give away at least 8 points to as a result of our super powerful hits!) the girls dug deep to fight back from losing the first set to a 2-1 victory!

The Year 10 and Year 11 girls have represented SBCC with great pride so far through their teamwork, enthusiasm and passion for volleyball.

Keep it up girls!

Kind regards,
Simon Zahra
Sports Convenor

For all things related to the College BYODD Program, please visit the College BYODD Site. Here you will find all information relating to the BYODD Program including device requirements, Apple Care + and how to configure your device for use at the College.

For questions relating to BYODD, please contact the College or email:

https://sites.google.com/dow.catholic.edu.au/byoddsbcc/it-support

University of Wollongong is offering a transition program that may be useful to Year 6 parents which relates to our TaPs program which transitions students from Stage 3 to Stage 6.

Event name: Year 6 Parent & Carer Webinar - Maximising Success When Transitioning to High School & UOW Opportunities Ahead

Description: Join UOW for this exciting webinar opportunity which focuses on key transition to high school themes to equip parents & carers with confidence before their child embarks on their high school journey ahead

Date/Time: Monday, November 11th 7pm-8pm

Who: Guest presenters and specialists will focus on topics such as; Adapting to change, managing peer pressure & maintaining friendships, coping with new learning demands, taking 'good risks' in learning + exploring UOW program opportunities on the horizon!

Location: Hosted flexibly via Zoom - Link available once registered

Register via: https://www.uow.edu.au/study/events/

Mrs Tracee Brown

Transition & Pathways (TaP's) Coordinator/ TAS Teacher

Applications are now open for 2025 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel.

Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.

Please find attached the school bus timetable for 2024 or you can click on the link below to see our school timetable that has been uploaded onto the transit systems website.
https://nsw.transitsystems.com.au/

Our College's Clothing Pool is running low on uniforms, and we need your help! If you have any uniforms you no longer use, please consider donating them.

You can drop off your donations at the office Monday to Friday, from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Your generosity will make a big impact!

Thank you for your support!

P & F Uniform Pool order form - 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 in cash ONLY and collected from the SBCC College Office.

Donations of items in good condition can be left at the College Office.

ORGANISE UNIFORMS FOR SUMMER NOW

If you know the uniform sizes required, you can purchase the uniforms in-store or place an online order via the webstore at shop.ranier.com.au. For any exchange, item must be in original condition (unworn, unwashed, unaltered, tags attached) with original packaging. Some exclusions may apply. Note that online orders are only processed during shop operating hours. Orders placed during school/public holiday period will be picked and packed when the shop re-opens.

Ranier Schoolwear end-of-year closure and re-opening dates:

2024 last day of trading: Thursday 19th December

2025 first day of trading: Wednesday 8th January

CONTACT:

Ranier Schoolwear Unit 5/6-8 Porrende Street Narellan 2567

Online purchasing and appointments visit: shop.ranier.com.au

Email: stbenedict@ranier.com.au

Phone: 02 4647 8942

Responses will be provided during opening hours

For more immediate assistance, Head Office details are

Online: ranier.com.au/contact

Email: custservice@ranier.com.au