Term 1 - Week 10

A Message from the Principal

Dear Parents, Carers and Friends of Bethany,

The end of the term is usually a good time for reflection and over the past few days I have cast my eye back over our term at Bethany and remained filled with pride of so many students and their growth no matter how small or large.

Last night I attended the Sydney Catholic Schools Executive Director’s Awards for excellence in the HSC and VET. 7 of our students from the graduating class of 2023 were recognised for either first within SCS for a subject or outstanding service and commitment to VET. It was wonderful to speak to our girls and hear what life after Bethany is like. As I reflected on each of their stories over the 6 years at Bethany with their parents, it was a sign of what a wonderful school we have and the value of school and home working together in partnership.

I was also proud to watch our Intermediate Touch Football Team win the grand final across all schools in SCS. This team played with confidence, great spirit and teamwork and were joyous in winning and complimentary to the other team that they played. Congratulations girls on becoming champions again. Special thanks to Mr Brian Teplicanec, father of players Charlotte, Emily and Lucy for stepping in as coach whilst Mr Devlin has been on leave and to the many parents who have supported our girls on the sidelines each week.

Whilst these achievements have been quite grand, it is also important to recognise all measures of growth. Please congratulate your daughter on the merits that she has received this term as you receive the emails on Compass. For many of us, we do not take congratulations well, feeling uncomfortable in this space. Ask your daughter what was so special in her being recognised in getting a merit as these are important and affirming conversations.

Special congratulations to Year 7 for settling into Bethany so well and with great maturity and to Year 12 for finishing their half yearly exams. Term 2 is one where there are many tasks and events. Whilst resting during the holidays, please spend some time with your daughter asking her what are key dates for her next term and how will she arrive at these dates being organised and confident. For parents, please visit our calendar on the College website as each year group will have parent teacher interviews, Years 8 and 10 parents will have parent information evenings for subject selection and we will hold our termly Parent Information Session on wellbeing matters for all parents.

I thank all students and parents for the interest and support that you have shown towards the College during Term 1 and I look forward to watching further growth in Term 2.

Robyn Rodwell,
College Principal

From the Assistant Principal

The holidays provide an excellent opportunity for the girls and staff to reset and rejuvenate after what has been a great term at Bethany. The last few weeks have been a busy time with tasks for all our students and the holidays are an important chance for students to take some time to relax

Student Absences - Term 1

If your child has been absent from school, it is necessary for you to account for their absence. This can be done in one of the following ways:

• By accessing Compass and indicating the reason,
• By calling the College Office to inform the College staff,
• By sending a note to school with an explanation for the absence,
• By sending an email to studentserv.13990@sydstu.catholic.edu.au

If you do not use one of these options, your child’s absence remains ‘unexplained’ on the College roll, which is a legal document. Similarly, if your child is late for school for a valid reason, an explanation should be provided at the time of arrival at school.  If an explanation is not provided, the lateness is recorded as ‘unexplained’ in the College roll. Students who are late to school without explanation are required to attend a recess detention on the same day.

Term 2 commences for students on Tuesday April 30, when we will gather to commemorate Anzac Day. Staff will return to the College on Monday April 29 for a day of professional learning.

Uniform

Next term, students return to school in the winter uniform. Now is a great time to check the length of skirts and tunics, ensuring they meet the College standard. Below is a reminder of the College requirements for our winter uniform. Please note, there are now optional long pants available for our girls to wear during the winter months. 

WINTER UNIFORM

The College blazer is the outer garment for travel to and from school, excursions, and at official ceremonies. It is a compulsory part of the winter uniform.

JUNIORS:

• College long sleeve blouse
• College tunic
• College knee high socks or English navy opaque pantyhose
• College cardigan 
• College blazer (compulsory)
• College vest (optional)
• College jumper (optional)
• College pants (optional)

SENIORS:                       

• College blouse 
• College striped navy skirt
• College blazer (compulsory)
• College cardigan (optional)
• College vest (optional)
• College pants (optional)

SPORTS UNIFORM:

• College Sport shorts (summer)
• College Tracksuit (winter)
• College polo shirt
• College fleece
• Well supported lace-up sports shoes and College sport socks
• College sports cap

What does optional winter uniform mean?

Currently winter items such as the College scarf and cardigan are optional. This will be the same for winter pants. For any formal occasions such as excursions, masses etc., pants cannot be worn. 

For students in Years 7 - 9, an additional winter shirt, with the College logo on it, will need to be purchased to wear with the pants. Only this blouse can be worn for juniors with pants and it is the same as the current senior winter blouse. As with all parts of our uniform, only items purchased at our uniform shop can be worn as the uniform. 

If students feel that it is necessary to wear more clothes for warmth during winter they must be worn under the regular uniform e.g. spencers, socks etc. and not be seen.  Assorted jumpers and tracksuit jackets etc. are not acceptable.

Mother’s Day Mass and Breakfast

During the week an invitation was sent out regarding our Mother’s Day Mass and Breakfast. Please join us to celebrate this special occasion!

Congratulations to all our staff and students on a fabulous Term 1. I wish you all a wonderful break.

Kristina Flanagan,
Assistant Principal

Religious Education

Regina Coeli

The Regina Coeli, Latin for "Queen of Heaven," holds a significant place in Catholic tradition, especially during Eastertide. This ancient prayer dates back to the 12th century and is attributed to Pope Gregory the Great. It replaces the Angelus during the Easter season, serving as a joyful proclamation of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is recited in place of the Angelus during the Easter season as a way to celebrate the resurrection of Christ with greater emphasis. The prayer exalts Mary, acknowledging her role in the resurrection narrative and her position as the Queen of Heaven. Over the centuries, the Regina Coeli has remained a cherished devotion, fostering a deep spiritual connection among believers during the Easter season, as they reflect on the triumph of life over death.

Night Patrol

As staff and students gathered on Good Friday, a day of profound religious significance in the Catholic Church, they engaged in a transformative act of compassion and solidarity to prepare over 200 sandwiches for the evening’s Night Patrol service. Inspired by the teachings of Jesus, who exemplified selfless service and love for others, participants embraced their roles with humility and empathy. Through preparing sandwiches for the underprivileged and accompanying the marginalised during the Night Patrol, they not only provided physical nourishment but also offered companionship and dignity to those in need. As they honored Jesus on this holiest of days, they embodied the true spirit of Christian service, enriching both their own souls and the lives of those they served.

Project Compassion

Bethany College's remarkable achievement in raising $5532 for Caritas' Project Compassion initiative stands as a testament to the collective goodwill and dedication of its students. Through a diverse array of activities including two movie nights, a disco, a barista service, a bake sale, and more, students passionately engaged in fundraising efforts to support those in need. Their commitment to making a difference exemplifies the ethos of service ingrained in the College community. Bethany College's achievement not only exemplifies their commitment to social justice but also serves as a beacon of hope and solidarity for communities supported by Caritas' Project Compassion initiative. Behind this successful campaign was the guidance and leadership of Miss Jones, Youth Ministry Coordinator, whose unwavering dedication and vision inspired and guided students every step of the way. Thank you to the entire community for the donations received.

St Michael’s Church- latest Bulletin

Feast of Our Lady of Fatima- Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney procession details

Sara Camporeale,
Leader of Religious Education and Mission

Teaching and Learning News

SAVE THE DATE - Year 7 to 9 Parents & Students

During the early years of high school, it is essential for students to develop study habits to promote academic success and become powerful learners. Bethany College will be hosting ‘Tools for Success’ Study Skills evening, presented by Dr Prue Salter from Enhanced Learning Educational Services, on Tuesday 4th June, 6:00 to 7:30pm. Dr Prue Salter will take parents and students through these essential skills and provide students with useful ways in which they can integrate these skills into their approach to their academic studies. This evening is open to all students and parents in years 7 to 9.

Tutors in the Library - 

Our students have access to tutors in our library from Tuesday to Thursday every week of the school term. The assistance they provide is available to students from Yr 7-12. We encourage students to make the most of these tutors in Term 2-4 to assist them with understanding concepts and topics that they are studying in class, gaining assistance with their homework or with how to  approach an assessment task.

ATOMI

All Bethany students have access to the online learning platform Atomi which provides a wealth of videos and quizzes aligned to the curriculum. Atomi is an effective way for students to revise and consolidate their learning in class. Students should be attempting the quiz questions on Atomi especially in the lead up to an assessment task. It also has a section available to students regarding study skills. More information can be found about Atomi  here.

Reflection Time 

Term 1 is always a busy time. New people to get to know in your class and new teachers, new concepts and subjects to get their heads around and increased expectations on how they approach their studies and the ways in which they have to show their learning. During these holidays when students have a time to stop and reflect on their term it is a great time for them to ask themselves a few questions. We encourage parents to have this conversation with their daughters so that you can gain some insight into where your child is at and what they may need help with.

• What went well this term for me?
• What am I most proud of this term (e.g. 100% attendance, increased participation in class discussions)
• What are the subjects/concepts that I understand best and which ones do I need to still work on?
• What strategies have I put in place to help me to achieve my best?
• What are the ‘roadblocks’ that I am facing when it comes to achieving my potential?
• How do I remove or reduce these ‘roadblocks’?

We wish all students a relaxing break.

Sarah Rowland - Leader of Curriculum
Cameron Paff - Leader of Data and Growth

Year 11 Hospitality and Food Technology

Year 11 students have been hard at work in the commercial kitchen!

Hospitality students made pizza's to finish off the term. Leftover ingredients were used to make tasty toppings, minimising food wastage in the Bethany kitchen. 

Meanwhile our Food Technology students were given the task of creating Bento Box style lunches for two types of students, an 8 year old boy and a 5 year old girl. 

Check out their fantastic results!

Adrianna Coleman,
Teacher

Visual Arts

ANZAC Commemoration & Exhibition Launch

Congratulations Irene Tjoa of Year 10 who was selected as a finalist in the 2024 RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Art Competition.

Irene, her parents and I were invited to attend the RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Commemoration, exhibition launch and workshop last Thursday, 4th April at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park. 

The day began with a solemn and dignified ANZAC Commemoration Service at the forecourt with representatives from many schools across Sydney. Finalists and winners of the Art Competition were then presented with awards and the innovative artworks were on display in the Auditorium. To conclude the day, students were involved in a workshop run by Art Educators from the Art Gallery of NSW, and explored their creativity with charcoal drawings.

Freya Wooby,
Visual Arts Teacher

Sport Update

SCS Representative Sport Update

The Term 1 Competition has concluded with our teams finishing in the following places:

• Junior Touch Football -  5th
• Intermediate Touch Football - 1st
• Senior Touch Football - 5th
• Junior Basketball - 5th
• Intermediate Basketball - 5th
• Senior Basketball - 5th

On Thursday 4th April the Intermediate team played in their semi final against Bosco and won 10-2. Later that afternoon the girls played in the Grand Final against Marist Penshurst and proved too strong defeating them 7-0! Congratulations to Charlotte Teplicanec who was awarded Players’ Player in the Semi Final and Sophia Brightwell and Lucy Teplicanec who were awarded Players’ Player in the Grand Final match.

On Thursday 11th April, the Intermediate Touch Football team progressed to the Sydney Championships held at Holy Cross College, Ryde.

Their pool match game was against Good Samaritan, Hinchinbrook and our girls were dominant, defeating them 11-0 to progress to the Championship match. 

The Championship game saw our Intermediate team come up against Brigidine Randwick. It was a tough match, with teams tied up at half time and the final result coming down to the last few minutes of the game. The final score was 5-4.

Congratulations to our Intermediate team who were crowned champions of Sydney Catholic Schools! Lucy Teplicanec was awarded Players’ Player for the match, well done! 

A huge thank you to Brian Teplicanec who coached the girls over the last few weeks in Mr Devlin’s absence!

NSWCCC Swimming Championships

Congratulations to Giselle Galea who has been selected in the NSWCCC Swimming Team. Giselle will attend the NSW All Schools Championships at the end of May. Good luck!

NSW All Schools Cricket 

Congratulations to Beth Millican who represented Bethany and NSWCCC at the NSW All Schools Trials during the week, and despite being sick, was selected in the team! This is an amazing achievement, which will see Beth represent NSW at the School Sport Australia Cricket Exchange in Mackay, QLD at the end of August.

Beth also recently was selected in the U16s Cricket NSW Academy!

SCS Rugby League

Congratulations to Jessica Brightwell, Sophia Brightwell, Emily Teplicanec, Charlotte Teplicanec and Markenzy Vaha who have been selected to attend the SCS Rugby League Trials on Wednesday 1st May.

Rachel Bevan,
Sport Coordinator

Careers Newsletter

Issue 5: April 11, 2024

UAC NEWS - University Admissions Centre

The Educational Access Scheme (EAS) 

Aims to help students who have experienced significant educational disadvantage receive an offer to university. 

UAC – FAQs about applying to University 

Find answers to frequently asked questions about applying to university UAC - Schools Recommendation Schemes (SRS) Applications close 16 Sept 

The Schools Recommendation Scheme 

(SRS) is one way institutions make early offers of undergraduate admission to Year 12 students. They do this by using criteria other than (or in addition to) the ATAR. Information about applying this year, including application and offer dates, is being updated progressively, so check back at this link regularly. 

This year, the Schools Recommendation Scheme application is integrated into the undergraduate application; it is no longer a standalone application.  Once students have submitted their undergraduate application a link to the SRS application will appear. It will only take a few minutes

All of the University 2024 Open Day dates here

Undergraduate Course Guides 2025

As we start to receive the 2025 Undergraduate Course Guides, they are being added to a publicly accessible online folder. click here. 

University Early Entry Schemes

Year 12 students are advised to check each institutions website for details and dates of Early Entry schemes as these differ at each institution

University of Sydney Creative Arts Special Admission Scheme (CASAS) 

Did you know you can apply to get an early offer from the Con before you get your ATAR? If you’ve got the talent and the dedication, we want you. The Creative Arts Special Admissions Scheme offers talented Year 12 students a chance to receive an early offer to study music based on their audition and academic performance in year 11 and 12 so far, prior to getting an ATAR. The degrees available under the admissions scheme are:

• Bachelor of Music 
• Bachelor of Music (Composition) 
• Bachelor of Music (Performance) 

If you are a HSC student in NSW, you must do the following: 

• Apply to UAC by the relevant August Round 1 or October Round 1 deadline. 
• List your chosen music degree as your first preference. 
• Meet the audition/portfolio and interview requirements in the July or September rounds of auditions. 

You are encouraged to apply in the July round of auditions (UAC August Round 1) where you will be able to audition live and have a chance to secure an early offer before submitting HSC work or undertaking exams.  For most NSW Year 12 HSC students, no separate application is required, and your Year 11 and 12 results and predicted ATAR will be obtained automatically through UAC by the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

ARTiculate Studies of Religion - Three Versions of Paul (or more) and Christian bioethics 

30 May 

The talk will be divided in two parts: Part 1. Three Versions of Paul (or more) There are a multitude of attitudes to St Paul academic, theological and mythic. Was he the real founder of Christianity? The first writer of Scripture? Here we examine his legacy from numerous academic viewpoints and survey the most relevant sources. Part 2. Bioethics (Mainly Christianity) Bioethical responses from even a single tradition such as Christianity can change over time and lose and gain intensities and focus, here we consider why with some telling examples.

 University of Sydney Year 12 Information Evening Webinar 

23 May 

Join us for an exclusive online information evening for Year 12 students and their parents/carers to answer all your questions about joining the vibrant Sydney University community next year. • Discover the exciting range of degrees and programs we offer. • Learn about our unique curriculum and scholarships. • Connect with our Indigenous team and explore pathways, Gadigal program, and extended bachelor program. • Understand our Regional and Remote entry schemes. • Get expert advice on entry requirements and the application process. This information evening is your chance to explore your options, get clear on the next steps, and ask questions to our current students and Sydney Future students staff.

 University of Sydney Webinar - Double degrees, combined studies and cross-disciplinary education

 29 May 

We offer a range of double degrees allowing you more flexibility and options to create the university experience that suits your interests and goals. Allowing you to follow your passion and gain a competitive edge by enhancing your employability through cross disciplinary education. Hear from a current double degree student about as they share their Sydney experience and how they chose from the many flexible courses and degree structures at the University of Sydney. Find out what sets us apart and how you can benefit from completing a combined or double degree at Sydney 

Bachelor of Accounting (BAcc) at UTS Information Evening 

9 May

 At the core of every organisation is an accountant. Join our webinar to learn about what accounting really is and where it can take you. If you are a high-achieving school leaver and believe you could be one of Australia’s future business leaders, then our Bachelor of Accounting and cooperative education scholarship program has been designed just for you. The Bachelor of Accounting provides you with a multi-skilled accounting degree with a strong emphasis on both accounting and financial management, both essential business tools. Come along to this webinar and meet current students, graduates, sponsors and staff of this elite program.

Reminder - Discover Health Sciences at ACU North Sydney 

16 April 

Registration Open Take part in hands-on workshops, tour our facilities and hear from current students about a rewarding career as a health professional.

Reminder - Discover Teaching and Social Work at ACU Strathfield 

17 April 

Take part in hands-on workshops, tour our facilities and hear from current students about a rewarding career as a teacher or social worker. Learn about global study opportunities and why we are ranked 32nd in the world for education\*. This event is designed for high school students in Years 10 to 12, however anyone, including parents and caregivers, is most welcome to attend. Places are limited – be sure to register your attendance to guarantee your spot.

UNSW Year 10 Info Evenings: Subject Selection

 9 & 14 May 

Get advice and information that’s specially tailored for Year 10 students, that will help you navigate the HSC subject selection process, explain how UNSW admissions and scholarship applications work, and give you an insight into transitioning into university life so that you can get a head start on planning your future. Parents and teachers of Year 10 students are invited to join the evening as well as participate in the live Q&A session.

UNSW Law Admissions Test (LAT) Information Evening 

15 May 

Get all of your questions answered at our online 2024 LAT Information Evening. The Law Admission Test (LAT) is an entry requirement for all undergraduate law double degrees at UNSW. We'll cover how the LAT has worked for entry in the past, provide detailed program and faculty information, as well as key LAT dates for the year ahead. We'll also be joined by some current students to answer general questions about the LAT and studying law at UNSW. Our LAT Information Evening is for Year 11 and 12 students and their parents, careers advisers and students currently studying at another university who are hoping to transfer to UNSW Bachelor of Laws in 2025.

UNSW Science Information Evening 

29 May

No matter what your passion is, you'll find a degree to launch your career with UNSW Science. From Aviation to Psychology, Mathematics to Environmental Sciences, we’re creating the Science Leaders of tomorrow. UNSW’s Science Information Evening is for domestic high school students who are interested in pursuing an undergraduate degree in Science. Join us to hear about UNSW Science and what makes us different. We will provide information about our degree offerings, work integrated learning opportunities, industry partnerships, STEM career opportunities and much more.

Bradfield Senior College Open Day 

7 May 

Please join us for a tour of the Bradfield campus followed by a presentation and Q&A. Location: Building A, 213 Pacific Hwy St Leonards 2065 

Whitehouse Early Entry Applications Open 

Applications now open for Early Entry. Courses include Fashion Design and Interior Design. 

Australian Institute of Music - School Holiday HSC Masterclass 

22 April 

AIM’s new school holiday workshop is designed for high school students interested in exploring musical theatre. What Style(s) of Music will you be performing? AIM’s HSC Performance Workshop is designed exclusively for Year 12 Music 1 and 2 students who are interested in improving and polishing their performance works for their assessments, trial performances and HSC.

Sydney Design School Info Sessions 

18 April 

Find out everything you need to know about our flexible courses and career support. Our Director, Amanda Grace will introduce you to our unique philosophy, passionate Educators and industry focused approach to learning. 

Sydney Design School Interior Decoration Workshop 

17-18 April 

Be inspired. Be creative. If you love interiors magazines and beautifully styled spaces, this fun two day workshop is for you. It’s perfect for any interiors enthusiast who wants to decorate their home with skill and confidence. Perhaps you’re considering a career in interiors? This beginners workshop will give you a taste of the Certificate IV in Interior Decoration course and you’ll get a feel for our School and the passion of our Educators. Get hands on as you learn how to put together a full interior decoration scheme for a living space in your own home. Plan the layout, select furniture and lighting, explore colour schemes and create a sample board of your ideas. This course is held four times a year in the School holidays in January, April, July and September/October. You can also study online with our partner [Interior Design Online here](https://www.interiordesignonline.edu.au/renovators-masterclass-series-online/).

Australian College of Applied Professions Sydney Campus Information Night 

23 April 

Join us on campus and discover how ACAP can help you make a real difference in the lives of others. Find out about our degrees in psychology, social work, counselling, criminology, coaching, management and law and the career paths available to you. The Australian College of Applied Professions’s (ACAP’s) degrees of difference have been shaping futures for over four decades. As a global leader in the vast field of applied psychology, our professionally accredited qualifications contribute to societal well-being, embodying values of integrity, equity, and social justice. Join our on-campus info night and discover our industry-driven programs led, meet our industry experts

Wombat Books Illustration Challenge 

Closes 1 July 

We're seeking original illustrations from Australian school-aged students (aged 5-18) to publish in a unique picture book by the team at Wombat Books. The Challenge has been established in order to provide aspiring young illustrators with the opportunity to be published in a professionally produced children's book and gain an introduction into the world of illustrating. Winning illustrations will be published in a new book which is due for release in 2024. Illustrators will receive two free copies of the book. They will also be acknowledged on the Wombat Books website. Judging decisions will be made by Wombat Books. This is the sixth challenge Wombat Books has run. We want to create a unique and special picture book by Aussie children for everyone to treasure and have fun with. 

Australian Federal Police Information Session 

8 May 

Interested in a career as a PSO? Learn more at our online information session. AFP protective service officers (PSOs) are first responders to national security threats. As a PSO you'll get to work in an active environment, performing a range of high visibility patrols on vehicle, bike or foot. 

NIE Careers: Future Doctors Australia Program (Age: 14-18) 

18 – 21 July 2024: 

Future Doctors Australia program is an engaging and high-impact 4-day program that provides young people (age: 14-18) with a unique opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Phone: 4367 0404 or 0412 439 115 or Email: enquiries@nie.edu.au.

UNSW Young Women in Engineering Club: Free Year 7-9 Biomedical Engineering Workshops in April 

Limited places remain in the Free Biomedical Engineering workshop on 17 April for girls in Years 7-9. Facilitated by UNSW Biomedical Engineering Students’ Society at UNSW Kensington campus, this hands-on interactive workshop runs 10am – 11.30am. 

Jump Start a Career in Early Childhood at GOAL College 

GOAL College has a new Early Childhood Education stream at the Olympic Park campus. Join now for Year 11 2025 and gain the full Certificate 3 (Early Childhood Education and Care) as part of the HSC. Non-ATAR. Apply now, places are limited.

Melanie Bullock,
Careers Advisor

Uniform Shop