11 November 2024

From the Executive Principal

Thank you all for your support of our students and our school community as we reach the halfway stage of Term 4, and close out what has been an exceptional year of success at BPSSC, both within the classroom and outside the school gates. Our Year 12 students have just concluded their external exams. I want to commend our Year 12s for their remarkable resilience and adaptability as they have navigated through their schooling to reach this point. Our Year 12s have diligently acquired the knowledge, refined the skills, and developed the confidence not only to face the challenges in their final years of schooling, but also to prepare themselves for a prosperous future. We look forward to celebrating the Year 12 final assembly, formal, mystery bus tour and graduation ceremony, as they conclude their time at BPSSC in style.

On Friday, 25 October we celebrated Staff Appreciation Day in conjunction with World Teachers’ Day. Staff Appreciation Day at BPSSC is a day that we formally acknowledge the professionalism, dedication and expertise of those responsible for educating and supporting our BPSSC students. The hard work and commitment by our staff are the driving forces behind our success at BPSSC. It is through their daily contributions, big and small, that we continue to thrive and grow. The resilience, adaptability, and unwavering support our staff give to our community is truly remarkable. We are so blessed at BPSSC to have such an amazing workforce.

End of Term Assessment

As we move into the later part of this term all students would be aware of their assessment and assessment due dates to complete their studies for Term 4.  Year 10 and 11 will finish their term with a rewards day on 20 November, and the Year 10 semi-formal is on Thursday 21 November. Our Year 10s and 11s finish on Friday 22 November. Students in Year’s 7-9 will complete their assessment over the last couple of weeks of Term 4 and will conclude with their rewards day on Friday 06 December. Week 11 will see our students engage in an alternate program with the last day for Years 7-9 being Friday 13 December.  I wish all students their very best in finishing all of their outstanding assessments.

WesTEC Graduations

This week I had the pleasure of attending the WesTEC graduation ceremonies for our Year 11 and 12 students. The WesTEC Trade Training Centre based at Springfield provides specialised vocational training across the fields of Automotive, Construction, Plumbing, Electrotechnology, Manufacturing Technology, Engineering, Salon Assistant & Barbering, Retail Cosmetics, Health Services, Health Administration, Community Services (Childcare Stream), Justice Studies, Aviation, Logistics and Infrastructure & Resources. Over 25 BPSSC students completed up to a Certificate III in 2024. These qualifications will equip our students with industry skills and experience, equipping them with practical skills and qualifications that are proven, measurable and transferable.

2025 Enrolment Processes

Thanks to all families that have submitted enrolment applications for 2025.  Can I ask that all enrolment applications be submitted at your earliest convenience? Please also advise our office ASAP if your child/ren are not returning to BPSSC in 2025.

Finishing Strong

Term 4 is about finishing strong and this occurs through every day persistence in practices that build to culminate in larger successes. Every day active learning, respect and responsibility underpin this expectation right up until the final bell on the final day of term. I thank you all for your support in this. Once again, as we celebrate many milestones in the coming weeks and the exceptional heights we reach in these as a school community, I would like to acknowledge you all for the contribution you make to our students and our school. Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together to continue to empower our students to thrive towards success and finish strong.

Student Start 2025

Our Year 7, 11 and 12 students, will commence the 2025 school year on Tuesday 28 January. All other year levels will commence on Wednesday 29 January 2025. Please note that Monday 27 January is a public holiday.

If your child is not able to attend school on the first day, parents are required to seek approval from the school prior to the end of this year.

Students not returning until after Thursday 06 February 2025 are required to provide documentary evidence of the arrangements that preclude the normal start dates and seek approval to do so. Without this documentation and approval, we will not be able to hold places in classes. Please provide us with early advice so that we can attend to these arrangements with you.

2025 School Calendar

For your reference, the 2025 school calendar for Queensland state schools is now available.

Mr Michael West
Executive Principal

Deputies Corner

With only 4 weeks of teaching and learning to go for Year 7-9’s (Week 11 being an alternate program) students are well under way with assessments for their subjects. This is why attendance is a top priority. If a student does miss a day for illness, they are able to catch up on their work using Daymap (the schools current local eLearning platform) or QLearn (Departments eLearning platform)

When students improve their attendance rates, they improve their academic prospects and chances for graduation.

Every week Belinda Bryan our attendance support officer puts up the Year Level weekly attendance rates outside the canteen. As Year 7 Deputy Principal it is good to see the Year 7 attendance being consistent around the 84% mark. Our target though is 90% as a cohort but its still pleasing to see over 165 students in Year 7 hitting this 90% target for 2024 and 229 students 85+% for 2024. Friday continues to be our worst attendance day for students FYI.

As a parent of three, I know how challenging it can be to keep track of upcoming assessments, especially since our kids don't always share those details! It can be incredibly helpful to have a quick, one page overview to ensure they’re on track. For your convenience, the Year 7-9 Assessment Planners for Term 4 are now available on our website.

A Year’s Worth of Progress for a Year’s Input

Through our High Expectations - No excuses philosophy and high focus on effort - we want all our students to be improving no matter what level they started with here at Bellbird Park. When you walk into our reception office or into our Executive Principal Mr West’s office - you will see emblazoned across the wall what we believe in as a whole staff – “A Year’s worth of progress for a Years Input”. This is what we as a whole College believe in and are striving to get for every student here at Bellbird Park.

Mr Gavin Grant
Deputy Principal Year

Over the past few weeks, our new student leaders have been host to lunch time activities. These have been a fantastic opportunity for all Year 8 students to come together and engage in enjoyable lunch-time activities. We are very impressed by the student leaders commitment to making the school experience enjoyable for their peers.

For Year 8s, there is only a few short weeks left before the end of another year at Bellbird Park. Now is the time for students to show all they have learned as they enter the final assessment phase. You would have received the assessment planner which details all tasks. You can help your child by planning out due dates and working to ensure all drafts are submitted so they can receive feedback on their work. We have homework club available after school as well as tutoring sessions. At Bellbird Park, we encourage students to work hard across the whole year and to ‘finishing strong’. We look forward to seeing this strong work ethic applied on their end of year reports as well as in their behaviour around the College and within the community. 

A key aspect of ‘finishing strong’ is to ensure all students arrive to the College on time and arrive to each lesson on time.  Every minute late has a large impact on student learning, and we would like to maximise every minute!  You will have noticed more notifications of your child’s attendance and records of lateness are being sent out by email.  This is to provide you with information on how your child is progressing with the College expectations on lateness.  You can also check unexplained absences and late detentions through DayMap.

To reward and acknowledge students who consistently meet College expectations, we are again organising a Rewards Trip.  In Week 10, students have the opportunity to go to Dream World.  More details about the trip will be released shortly.  Please note, there is a cost associated with this Reward Trip.  I know many Year 8s will be eligible as they continue to demonstrate the College RISE values with many having filled multiple PBL stamp sheets. 

The Year 8 team have enjoyed working with each and every one of the Year 8 students and are excited for the remaining few weeks being filled with learning and engaging experiences.

Ms Diane Pashen
Deputy Principal Year 8

As we find ourselves nearing the finish line of this term, I want to take a moment to recognise the fantastic efforts of our Year 9 students. Your resilience, determination, and commitment to your studies have been inspiring, and I couldn’t be prouder of the progress we have made together.

I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to the families and students I have had the privilege of working with this year, not only within Year 9 but also in our cultural and inclusion spaces. Your commitment to creating a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive community has been truly inspiring, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it.

Unfortunately, due to some health matters, I will be taking leave over the next few weeks. Please know that I am looking forward to my return and to continuing our work within the wonderful BPSSC community.

In the meantime, keep up the great work! Let’s finish the term strong.

Ms Melissa Fields
Deputy Principal Year 9

Finishing the year strong…with integrity!

As we approach the end of another incredible academic year, I’d like to share some inspirational thoughts on finishing the year strong…and of course, with an ‘integrity’ flavour. Our community will surely be aware that integrity is by far my favourite PBL value here at BPSSC…and for good reason.

So, the question for all of our students is this - what are we doing when no one’s watching? What efforts are we investing in now, knowing they may not bring instant results, but will pay off in the future? Success isn’t built in the spotlight - it’s built in those quiet moments where discipline, focus, and determination quietly transform our efforts into achievements.

I challenge you all to embrace the spirit of integrity. Show up when no one’s watching. Choose to do the work that matters, even when it’s hard. The journey might be long and often unseen, but your future self will thank you; and we, as a community, will celebrate the successes that come from your effort!

Here are some further tips to help our students finish the year on a high note:

• Stay organised: Maintain a study schedule and make a to-do list to manage your tasks efficiently.
• Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to ask teachers or peers for assistance if you're facing difficulties in any subject.
• Take breaks: Remember to take short breaks to recharge your energy during study sessions.
• Set goals: Establish clear academic goals to keep yourself motivated.
• Stay healthy: Eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep to ensure you're in peak condition for exams.
• Stay positive: Keep a positive mindset and believe in your ability to succeed.

Mr Jason English
Deputy Principal Year 11

Administration Matters

Order online at www.munchmonitor.com

Need to set up an account?  Click on the below link for further information

Bellbird Park SSC P&C Christmas Cash Bonanza Raffle!

Please support our P&C with our Christmas Cash Bonanza Raffle. By purchasing a ticket, you're not only entering for a chance to win fantastic cash prizes but also supporting the P&C’s fundraising efforts for exciting new initiatives that will directly benefit our students. Tickets are only $5!

Click the link below to purchase yours and help us make a difference:
http://www.rafflelink.com.au/bpsscpc

Thank you for your support and good luck!

Trivia Night Sponsors

We are absolutely blown away by the amazing generosity of our local businesses who donated prizes for the Bellbird Park SSC P&C Trivia Night! Your contributions are what make these events possible.

From the Head of Department

Head of Department - Teaching and Learning

BPSSC’s TeachX Award Winner

Bellbird Park's Maths Teacher Jacob Cheung has been awarded the Queensland College of Teachers’ prestigious TeachX award for Teaching Excellence. Of the hundreds of applications from 90 000+ teachers in the state, Jacob was one of 31 recipients of the award. which recognised him for the over-and-above work he has done with our students. This work ranges from running tutorials before school, to establishing an e-sports program aligned to academic objectives.

Congratulations to Jacob; this award is a recognition of the many hours of selfless service that he has given to our students and school community. It’s teachers like Jacob, who go above and beyond, that make BPSSC such a special place!

Mr Ben Turnour
Head of Teaching and Learning

Head of Department - Diverse Learners

There have been some wonderful things happening through the Diversity Hub at the moment to support all students across the college.

Ms Haney’s Year 7 English/Humanities class have started using the Headspace Star Wars mindfulness series – listening to the same chapter a few times a week for 5 minutes to calm and centre themselves before learning, while also developing their socio-emotional competence.

Mr Jaremenko and Ms Mansfield have been working with students in the garden – They have been growing and caring for pumpkins and were finally able to harvest them last week! It was so rewarding to see them grow from tiny plants. I bet they tasted delicious! 

Ms Burston has been working with students from Years 7-11 to continue the fruit and vegetable box legacy that her Year 12s have been running – staff have been thrilled to be able to keep ordering their fruit and veggies this term. A big congrats to our Year 12s who have completed their LIFE Pathway and are all set to graduate with their QCIA!

Ms Phoebe Parish
Head of Diverse Learners  

Head of Year Report

 Ms West – Year 8          

We are already halfway through the term and students have achieved success whether it be by doing their best on a test, helping a peer or following the RISE Expectations.

World Kindness Day is just around the corner and students have planned to hold fun and exciting events for their peers at lunchtimes. When students interact and work together, they often develop stronger connections with one another and develop their self-management, communication and leadership skills.

Students have been actively engaged in exams and assessments. The Year 8 Team understand students may face barriers and challenges during assessment periods. The school provides a number of supports for students. They can check in with their Wellbeing Teacher each day, seek advice from the Guidance Officers, visit the Cultural Hub and attend Homework Club. Please contact the school if your child requires support. There are also many external supports including:

Websites:

• ReachOut.com
• Headspace.org.au
• BeyoundBlue.org.au

Apps:

• Calm (Soothing visual background and range of meditations)
• Stop, Breathe & Think (Develop the skills to stop everything and just be still)
• Smiling Mind (Equipping young people with integral skills to thrive in life)

All Year 8 students have been working towards their short and long term academic and social goals under the guidance of their Wellbeing Teachers. Later this term students and their Wellbeing Teachers will be invited to celebrate students' achievements and growth. This is important as it allows students to feel accepted, included and supported within their school community. Well-done Year 8 on achieving your best.

Mr Bishop – Year 10

We are thrilled to be in the final stretch of the term, with some truly exciting events on the horizon for our Year 10 students!

First up, our Rewards Day at Dreamworld is happening on Wednesday, 20 November. This special outing is our way of celebrating the hard work and dedication of students with 90%+ attendance. Their consistent effort and commitment to their studies have earned them a fun day at one of Queensland’s premier theme parks!

Following closely is the highlight of the term, the Year 10 Semi Formal on Thursday, 21 November! The students have been busily preparing, completing their clearance forms to ensure they are eligible and finalising their permission forms. It promises to be an evening filled with style, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime. We can’t wait to see everyone dressed up and ready to celebrate this significant milestone!

In addition to these events, we are in the midst of reviewing subject selections for our Year 10 students as they transition into Year 11. This is an important time to make sure each student is on a pathway that supports their strengths, interests, and future goals.

As we move towards the end of term – Friday 22 November for our Year 10 students, let’s finish strong together.

Mrs Scull – Year 11 & 12

Senior Jersey – Year 11

• The first order of jerseys have been confirmed and ordered. They will arrive approximately 28 February, 2025.
• The process for the second and final order is now open.
• Firstly, students will need to complete the Clearance Form process, by getting the Clearance Form signed off by their teachers and me (HOY)
• Students received the Clearance Form on parade this week, there are also spares next to the Senior Schooling Noticeboard and see attached.
• Students then return the Clearance Form to Student Services by Friday of Week 8, where finance will sign students off if they are approved (i.e. fees paid, or payment plans to be set up in advance and payments made in accordance with the plan).
• Early Term 1, 2025, students who have successfully completed the Clearance Form process will receive an Order Form.
• This completed Order Form is to be returned to Students Services
• Parents/carers will be emailed an invoice for payment due by the end of Week 3, Term 1.

As a reminder, students must meet the below pre-requisites. These pre-requisites are expectations of a Senior Schooling student, that students and parents/carers signed on the Year 11 Contract in SET-Plans last year.  

• 90%+ Yearly or Term 4 attendance rate
• On track to receive QCE (Queensland Certificate of Education)
• Up to date with VET (Vocational Education and Training) competencies and work placements
• Satisfactory effort and behaviour as a minimum in all classes
• Positive behaviour in and around college grounds (if you receive two RISE referrals or an external suspension in Term 4 you may be ineligible to order a jersey)
• Evidence of ongoing compliance with the College Uniform Policy
• Evidence of ongoing compliance with the Personal Technology Device Policy
• No outstanding late or admin detentions
• All school fee payments are up to date (i.e. payment plans to be set up in advance and payments made in accordance with the plan).

Senior Formal Photography – Year 12

Downloads of the photos from the Year 12 Formal (arrivals, studio, roving) are FREE of charge for all Year 12 students and families. See below for instructions on how to access the photo gallery.

The Arts Update

Jacaranda Festival

On Saturday, 26 October our talented Strings Ensemble and Concert Band took centre stage at the Goodna Jacaranda Festival, showcasing their dedication and musical prowess to a lively audience. The festival, known for celebrating the arts and community spirit, provided the perfect backdrop for our students to shine.

Under the expert guidance of Mr. Hodgkinson, the Concert Band delivered a stunning performance that captivated everyone present. Their hard work and commitment paid off as they received a prestigious Gold Award, a testament to their skill and teamwork. The band played a selection of pieces that highlighted their versatility and enthusiasm, leaving the crowd cheering for more.

Simultaneously, our Strings Ensemble, led by the talented Ms. Park, also made a significant impact. Their performance was filled with emotion and technical brilliance, earning them a well-deserved Silver Award. The ensemble's ability to blend harmony and creativity was evident, and they received enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Both groups exemplified the spirit of collaboration and passion for music that our school fosters. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and commend all the students for their hard work leading up to this event. Special thanks to Mr. Hodgkinson and Ms. Park for their inspiring leadership and dedication to nurturing our young musicians.

Congratulations to the Concert Band and Strings Ensemble for their outstanding performances at the Goodna Jacaranda Festival! We look forward to seeing more of their musical journeys in the future.

Ms Sarah Fry
Instrumental Music Co-ordinator   

House of Champions Hip Hop Competition

The Bellbird Crew took the floor on Saturday, 19 October at the House of Champions Hip Hop competition. They performed their hearts out and we are so proud of them!

Congratulations to our very own Year 8 student Leilani who was awarded with the ‘Best Female Dancer’ in the opens (Year 7-12) category of the competition.

We cannot wait to perform again at HOC 2025!!

Ms Sophie Kersnovski
Dance | Film, Television and New Media and Media Studies