22 August 2025
From the Executive Principal
It has been wonderful to celebrate our thriving school environment both in and out of the classroom as the term progresses. Our students are consistently demonstrating an outstanding commitment to our expectations of being respectful, responsible and active learners and this is contributing to our wonderful environment and continued school success that I am so proud of. It is a great time to be part of Bellbird Park SSC.
Outstanding Academic Achievement in Semester 1 & Mid-Year Awards
It was an absolute pleasure to read the most recent student report cards. I would like to acknowledge the significant number of students who have been working extremely hard to improve or maintain their results. The vision from our staff is to relentlessly ensure that every single student at BPSSC achieves a C or better in all of their subjects. Our student results across all year levels for Semester One are simply outstanding and are a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our teachers and staff. We couldn’t have achieved this without the unwavering support of our entire school community – parents, guardians, and support staff. Congratulations to everyone on a fantastic Semester One!
Recognising student academic excellence and effort remains a core value at BPSSC. Over the past two weeks we have been honouring our top achievers from Years 7 to 12 at special year-level award assemblies. These ceremonies not only celebrate those students who have attained exceptional academic results but also highlight those who have demonstrated sustained effort, commitment, and growth in their learning. From Academic Excellence Awards to our Commitment to Learning and Growth recognitions, it has been inspiring to witness so many of our young people walking proudly across the stage in front of their peers. I extend my warmest congratulations to all of the students being recognised – they have clearly worked very hard for these results. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to watching them continue to strive, grow, and excel in Semester Two and beyond.
Cultural Performance Night – A Celebration of Talent, Pride and Community
Our recent Cultural Performance Night was nothing short of spectacular – a true showcase of talent, pride and the powerful sense of community we value so deeply at Bellbird Park SSC.
After many months of preparation, rehearsals and behind-the-scenes effort, our students lit up the stage with confidence, energy and passion. Their performances were inspiring and a wonderful reminder of the incredible young people who make up our school community. Each year our Culture Night continues to grow, and this year was our biggest and best yet.
None of this would have been possible without our dedicated staff whose passion and teamwork brought the night to life. From planning and rehearsals, to technical support, backstage coordination, costuming, front-of-house and so much more – your commitment made this event a huge success.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved. Celebrations like this not only highlight the brilliance of our students, but also the strength of the BPSSC team behind them.
First Nations Award
We are incredibly proud to announce that we were recently awarded with the Best First Nations Program at the 2025 Australian Education Awards in Sydney! This national recognition is a testament to the heart, hard work, and cultural strength of our entire community, especially our incredible First Nations students, families, staff, and community partners who continue to lead the way.
At BPSSC, we are deeply committed to truth-telling, cultural celebration, and creating meaningful opportunities for our young people to connect with culture, country, and community. This award honours that commitment and inspires us to continue walking this path with pride, respect, and purpose.
Partnering with Parents
Over the past two weeks we have partnered with parents to ensure we are providing the necessary support to get great outcomes for our current Year 9 and 10 students. Our Year 9 students completed their sub senior school (SSS) interviews and subject selections for 2026, whilst our Year 10 students completed their very significant SETP interviews. The Year 9 and 10 interviews are a crucial piece in extending the positive college-student-family relationships that we have created at BPSSC as we work together on the next steps in learning for students.
Our final Parent teacher interviews for 2025 were once again well supported. Please remember that you can communicate with your student’s teachers at any stage during the year – contact the college for further assistance.
Student Leadership
The selection of our student leaders for 2026 is currently underway. Our student leaders are custodians of our student voice, culture and have an important role in our school community as they build on the legacy of those before them. I have been particularly impressed with our student leadership group from Years 7-12 this year and have great confidence that we will find a strong group of student leaders to build on the successes of this year for 2026. We officially induct our 2026 student leaders at a special assembly at the end of this term. Our future at BPSSC is in great hands.
Student Free Day - Friday 05 September
A student free day is scheduled in Week 8 of this term on Friday 05 September. On this day across the College, staff will participate in professional development, QCE meetings and planning for 2026.
We have a busy and exciting final half of Term 3 with so many key student events. As always, we encourage you to follow us on Facebook for important announcements and celebrations of success.
Michael West
Executive Principal
Deputies Corner
As we move through Term 3, I am delighted to share some highlights from across our Bellbird Park community that showcase the incredible learning, growth, and achievements of our students.
Culture Night 2025 – A Celebration of Community
Last week our college came alive with the sights, sounds, and flavours of our annual Culture Night. With our largest venue and audience to date, the event was a true celebration of the rich cultural diversity that makes BPSSC such a vibrant place to learn. The captivating performances and family connections, it was wonderful to see our students so proudly sharing their heritage and talents. A special thank you to our staff and students who worked tirelessly over the past 12 months to ensure the success of this event. Please check out our Facebook page for photos celebrating the event.
Year 7 Success
Transitioning to high school is a big step, and we are so proud of our Year 7 students for the way they have embraced their first semester at BPSSC. Their recent report cards reflect not only strong academic progress but also the personal growth and positive habits they are developing as young learners. The success of our Year 7 cohort is a credit to their hard work, the support of their families, and the guidance of their teachers and Year 7 leaders. We look forward to seeing them continue to grow and shine as they move through the remainder of the year.
As always, I thank our students, staff, and families for your ongoing support and commitment to making Bellbird Park State Secondary College a place of pride, learning, and community.
Melissa Fields
Deputy Principal – Inclusion & Year 7
Year 10 have made a fantastic start to Term 3, with a strong focus on preparing for their transition into Year 11 in 2026. SET Planning provided a valuable opportunity to engage with students and their families, discussing future career pathways and individual interests. As we approach the end of the year, the Senior Schooling Team will continue to support the cohort as they get ready for their final two years of schooling.
In Term 4, our Year 10 students will have the opportunity to take part in our end-of-year celebration—the Semi-Formal. Students have been surveyed to gather their preferences for the event, and a student committee has been formed to help choose the theme, music, and catering. Invitations will be extended to students who meet the eligibility criteria, which include a minimum of 90% attendance, as well as consistent effort and positive behaviour. Mr Turner and I will be working closely with the cohort to support all students in meeting these requirements.
Carla Pantano
Associate Principal - Year 10
At Bellbird Park State Secondary College, we are incredibly proud of our Year 10 students who have recently completed their Senior Education and Training (SET) Plans on the 5th and 7th of August which is an important and exciting milestone in their learning journey.
SET Plans are more than just paperwork; they are meaningful conversations that help students explore who they are, what they’re passionate about, and where they want to go. With the support of our dedicated leadership team and the encouragement of families, each student has been guided to map out a senior pathway that reflects their individual goals, strengths, and dreams for the future.
From university aspirations to hands-on trades, creative industries to community services, our students are now equipped with a clear direction as they prepare for 2026 and beyond. The success of this process is a testament to the strong relationships and positive partnerships within our school community.
As our Year 10s look ahead to their senior phase of learning, they do so with confidence, clarity and a sense of purpose. We can’t wait to see where their pathways lead – and we’ll be right here, supporting and celebrating every step of the way.
Katie Jansons
Deptuy Principal - Year 11 & 12
Administration Matters
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From the Head of Department
Teaching and Learning – Head of Department
Encouraging Active Learning in Our Students
At BPSSC, we know that students learn best when they are not just passively listening, but actively engaging with the material. This Active Learning; where students question, explain, and apply knowledge to create something, rather than simply receiving information, is the foundation of independence and responsibility, that we are trying to instil in each student. Working like this builds a stronger understanding, deeper curiosity, and more independence, which are all crucial parts of schooling that prepare students for life in the real-world.
As parents and carers, you play a vital role in helping your child develop these habits at home. Treating learning like a challenge, to be tackled, and encouraging an active approach can make a real difference in supporting learning in and outside of the classroom.
Here are some strategies you can try, to encourage this approach in your student:
- Ask “why” and “how” questions
rather than just checking if their study is done, ask your child to explain why something works, or how they came to a solution. Expressing this helps them process and consolidate their understanding. - Make it real and explore why it matters
Connect what they’re learning in subjects to real life—news stories, things you see online, hobbies, or even TikToks. The more it feels relevant and connected to other knowledge, the more likely it is to stick!
- Encourage self-explanation
Get your child to “teach” you a concept they’ve been learning. Explaining it aloud forces them to clarify their thinking and notice any gaps in understanding. - Value their effort, not just results
Praise their curiosity, persistence, and problem-solving, even when mistakes happen, or the results weren’t what they expected. This helps foster a growth mindset, which is at the heart of active learning.
At BPSSC, teachers have been working across 2025 to encourage our young people not only to “do the work,” but to “drive their learning” as we seek to make them confident, independent and engaged learners.
Thank you for your ongoing support in helping your child make the most of their education.
Benjamin Turnour
Head of Teaching and Learning
Diverse Learners – Head of Department
This term in the Diverse Learners department we have been working closely with students and their families to offer supports for transitions through key stages of learning. Our Case Managers have been meeting with students across all year levels and their families to discuss their future pathways and plan supports to help students meet their individual goals no matter what stage of learning they are in.
NDIS
Earlier in the term, the Local Area Coordinator (LAC) for NDIS provided families with a very helpful and informative session about the NDIS and how to apply for it. If you would like more information about the NDIS please get in touch and we can share the resources provided or connect you to Sally and her team.
Upcoming opportunities:
Diversity Transition Session
We are inviting Year 6 Diverse Learners, who are enrolling to attend BPSSC next year, and their families to join us for our Diversity Transition Session on the Student Free Day in Week 8 this term. This session is aimed at students who will require additional support with the transition from Year 6 into Year 7. If you would like to attend, please RSVP as soon as possible to diversity@bellbirdparkssc.eq.edu.au
Inclusive Employment Australia
We are inviting students in Years 10-12, who may require additional support to transition to the workforce after Year 12, and their families to meet with employment support agencies at our meet and greet in term 4. If you would like to RSVP to attend or require more information, please email diversity@bellbirdparkssc.eq.edu.au
Speech Pathology Week 24-30 August 2025
This term we are excited to be celebrating Speech Pathology Week from Sunday, 24 August to Saturday, 30 August.
The theme for Speech Pathology Week in 2025 is: ‘Impact through Communication’. We would like to celebrate the incredible power of communication, and highlight how being able to understand others and express ourselves is fundamental to connection, learning, and quality of life.
At BPSSC, our school Speech-Language Pathologist collaborates with school teams to ensure that identified students with language, literacy and communication needs, are supported to access learning and demonstrate their knowledge to the best of their ability.
Phoebe Parish
Head of Diverse Learners
The Arts – Head of Department
Term 3 Highlights
What a fantastic term it has been so far for the Arts at Bellbird Park SSC! Our students have been busy performing, creating, competing, and inspiring audiences across Queensland. Here are some of the standout moments from Term 3:
Creative Generation – State Schools Onstage 2025
A lucky group of BPSSC students had the incredible opportunity to attend the Opening Matinee performance of Creative Generation – State Schools Onstage 2025 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre!
Not only did they witness an unforgettable showcase of talent from across Queensland, but they also got to cheer on six of our very own students performing live on stage. From powerful vocals and orchestral brilliance to high-energy dance, our students represented us with pride among over 2,000 performers.
Over the weekend, our performers took part in four spectacular shows after months of rehearsals, showcasing professionalism, energy, and passion. Congratulations to our CGen performers – Seb, Grace, Etevise, Mia, Mackenzie and Alex – we are beyond proud of your creativity and dedication! A huge thank you also goes to Miss Faint, Mrs Kersnovski, and our wonderful parents for their support in making this opportunity possible.
Wearable Art Workshop
Our Year 11 Visual Art in Practice students were fortunate to work with award-winning Queensland environmental artist Karen Benjamin, who guided them in transforming everyday waste materials into wearable artworks.
Through hands-on upcycling activities, students explored sustainable artmaking by creating badges, masks, headpieces, and tunics from recycled textiles and found objects. The workshop encouraged our students to think creatively about the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle while also learning traditional construction techniques like sewing, weaving, and layering.
Students left the workshop not only with unique wearable creations, but also with a deeper understanding of how art can be both expressive and environmentally responsible.
Toowoomba Eisteddfod
Students from the BPSSC Drama Ensemble proudly took to the stage at the Toowoomba Eisteddfod, performing alongside some of the region’s most talented schools. The performers impressed audiences with their teamwork, energy, and stage presence, showing dedication and creativity under the spotlight.
This experience was both challenging and rewarding, giving students valuable performance practice while also building confidence, resilience and camaraderie. Congratulations to Winner, Carlym, Payten, and Laetitia for representing BPSSC so well at this event.
Hospitality Dinner Showcase
Our Year 11 and 12 Music students shone at the annual Hospitality Dinner Showcase, entertaining the audience with polished performances across a wide range of musical styles. Their professionalism and stage confidence highlighted the depth of talent within our senior classes.
The evening opened with a stunning Double Bass performance by Dawn, setting a warm and captivating tone for the night. Jade and Zoey then took to the stage, impressing the audience with a heartfelt set of vocal and guitar pieces. To close the showcase, the newly formed Year 11 and 12 band — Ezekiel, Malanah, Shiloh, Gabriella, and Connor — brought high energy and charisma, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained.
Behind the scenes, the performances were supported by our talented Year 12 Sound Production students — Xavia, Josh, Madison and Ranzlete — who set up and operated the sound system for the night, ensuring everything ran smoothly.
Metropolitan Secondary Ensemble Workshop
Seven of our students proudly represented BPSSC at the 2025 Metropolitan Secondary Ensemble Workshop, collaborating with peers from across Regional Queensland.
In just one day, Sauraj, Sebastian, Dawn, Sol, Richard, Jason and Will learned four challenging pieces, rehearsed intensively, and performed to a large audience that evening. This was an incredible achievement and testament to their skill, focus, and teamwork.
Special congratulations to Sebastian (1st chair Cello) and Sol (soloist with the Big Band), who were featured performers on the night.
As our Arts & Technology Prefect Matthew reflected: “Performing with students from across the region continues to impact my music education. The intensity and dedication everyone brought made the experience unforgettable, and I’m grateful for the friendships and opportunities BPSSC has given me.”
Music Fest
This weekend, our Concert Band and String Ensemble will proudly represent BPSSC at Music Fest, one of Queensland’s largest school music competitions. Both groups have been preparing extensively in the lead-up to the event, refining their ensemble skills and developing confidence as performers.
On the day, they will present their performances and receive valuable feedback from adjudicators, who will provide insights into their tone, teamwork, and musicality. This experience will be a fantastic opportunity for our students to continue growing as musicians while showcasing the strength of our instrumental program.
Upcoming Arts Events – Save the Dates!
We are excited to invite our community to two special evenings celebrating the incredible talent and hard work of our students:
🎶 Music Showcase
📅 Thursday 11 September, 6:00pm
📍 BPSSC Performing Arts Centre
Join us for an evening of performances from our classroom and co-curricular music students, highlighting the skills they have developed throughout the year.
👉 Book your free tickets here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1450891
💃 Dance Showcase
📅 Thursday 18 September, 6:00pm
📍 BPSSC Performing Arts Centre
Come and celebrate the creativity and energy of our dance students as they present works developed in class across the year.
👉 Book your free tickets here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1450898
Both events are free to attend, but bookings are essential to secure your seat. We can’t wait to see you there and share in the achievements of our amazing Arts students!
Have Your Say – 2026 School Musical Vote!
It’s time to choose our 2026 school musical – and we want YOUR vote!
📽️ Watch the shortlist announcement video here: 👉 https://youtu.be/7N4W7ptycJE
🗳️ Then, cast your vote here: 👉 https://forms.office.com/r/evvhE0eh1w
Voting closes Thursday 29 August, so don’t miss your chance to help us decide which show will light up our stage in 2026!
✨ Congratulations to all of our Arts students for their achievements this term. Your creativity, passion, and commitment continue to inspire us all. ✨
Sally Faint
Head of The Arts
Head of Year Report
Pippa West - Head of Year 9
Our Year 9 students have had a very busy and engaging term so far, with a strong focus on wellbeing, subject pathways and student leadership.
Subject Selection Interviews
All Year 9 students recently completed their subject selection interviews for 2026. These sessions ensured every student is prepared and ready to begin their Year 10 journey with confidence. We extend our thanks to staff and to Mr Arnold for their support and guidance throughout this important process.
Smashed Presentation – Alcohol Awareness
Year 9 also attended the Smashed presentation, a curriculum-aligned alcohol education program designed for students aged 12–16. The interactive performance followed the lives of three teenagers, highlighting the risks and consequences of underage drinking, and encouraging students to make safe and informed choices. One student reflected, “The Smashed performance really made me think about choices and consequences.”
Blackdog Institute & AIS Guest Speaker
We were privileged to welcome the Blackdog Institute and Aiden Frick, representing the Australian Institute of Sport, who delivered an engaging presentation to our Junior School students in Years 7, 8 and 9. Aiden shared valuable insights into mental health, fitness, and strategies for wellbeing, as well as highlighting the supports available to students at school. One student commented, “Hearing Aiden speak made me realise that looking after your mental health is just as important as fitness.” We thank Blackdog and Aiden for their time and dedication in guiding our young people.
Pat Cronin Foundation – Be Wise Presentation
Later this term, the Year 9 and 10 cohorts will attend a presentation delivered by the Pat Cronin Foundation. The Be Wise program explores the impacts of conflict and violence, encouraging students to make positive, respectful choices in their everyday lives.
Triple C Campaign – Student Leadership
This week, our Year 9 College Captains proudly showcased their Triple C Campaign — focusing on Culture, Connection and Confidence — at the 2025 Queensland Secondary Principals Association (QSPA) Conference. This student-led initiative has been in development for over 18 months and aims to strengthen student wellbeing and engagement across the school. One student explained, “The Triple C campaign is exciting because it’s about us, by us. It’s something that will make a real difference.” The campaign will stand as an important legacy for the 2026 College Captains to continue.
Bullying No Way! Week
Year 9 also participated in Bullying No Way! Week (11–15 August), joining schools across Australia in promoting kindness, respect and inclusion. Students engaged in a range of activities, and many completed the “I pledge to help prevent bullying by…” cards, reinforcing their commitment to building a safe and supportive school community.
Celebrating Success – Awards Ceremony
In Week 7, we look forward to our Year 9 Awards Ceremony, where we will acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding achievements of many students from Semester 1.
From the Year 9 Team
Year 9 students continue to demonstrate the RISE Expectations by being punctual to classes, wearing the correct uniform and working diligently towards both their academic and personal goals. Their commitment to excellence and positive behaviour is a great example to the entire Year 9 cohort.
We are incredibly proud of the resilience, leadership and achievements of all our Year 9 students this term. We thank families for their ongoing support and look forward to continuing to work together to ensure every student has a successful and rewarding year ahead.
Hospitality Update
A Night of Excellence: Year 12 Hospitality shines at Showcase Dinner
The Year 12 Hospitality Showcase Dinner was a resounding success. In every sense, we delivered an exceptional evening that demonstrated both skill and teamwork. From the moment our guests arrived, the evening flowed beautifully. It was well support by families, friends, and staff — which meaningfully underscored the value of our students’ efforts. They provided attentive service; the dining experience was both polished and personal—a testament to our students' hard work.
The live music on the night was provided by our Year 11/12 band, as well as captivating performances from Jade, Zoey, Blessing, and Dawn. They created a vibrant atmosphere—who were overseen by our dedicated music department lead by Ms Sally Faint and Mr Sean Flynn.
The hospitality slideshow played throughout the evening and captured heartfelt and humorous moments from our students’ journey through their time in Yr 11 and 12 Hospitality.
A student-operated non-alcoholic bar served refreshing mocktails and beverages alongside the meal—adding a polished, personal touch. Guests enjoyed an elegant alternate-drop menu featuring:
- Entrée: Arancini Balls or Beef Brisket Bao.
- Main Course: Butter Chicken with rice and roti or Fried Rice with Honey-soy chicken.
- Dessert: Chocolate Brownie with salted caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream, or Biscoff Crepes with chocolate fudge sauce and whipped cream.
Behind the scenes, our dedicated trainer Alison Green and the Hospitality staff team—including Mrs Megan Sharman, Miss Bridget Schultz, Ms Mana Dabholkar, Mr Tez Shin, and Mr Oliver Baumeister—ensured flawless execution and support.
To our Year 12 Hospitality stars: your professionalism, teamwork, and dedication turned a dinner into a showcase. We didn’t just serve food—we celebrated excellence, collaboration, and the bright future of hospitality.
Thank you all for making this evening a shining success.
Ruth Jonsson
Food studies teacher & Hospitality Coordinator
Science Update
Science Week 2025!
Last week, students had the chance to get hands on with Science by creating coded bracelets, sparking chain reactions, and examining the details that make up our world. We welcomed guests from all types of STEM careers to share their experience in ecology, coding, neurology, and so much more!
Thank you to all staff and students who got involved to celebrate the fascinating world of Science!
Ms Brianna Dunigan & Dr Siska Cochran
Science Teachers
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