Term 2 - Week 4

A Message from the Principal

Dear Parents, Carers and Friends of Bethany,

This Sunday marks the 7th Anniversary of the Uluru Statement of the Heart being issued. The Uluru Statement of the Heart highlights the ongoing sovereignty of First Nations Australians and the continual strength of their culture and connection to country since 'time immemorial' . Through the pillars of Voice, Treaty, and Truth, it is a call for greater self-determination for First Nations Australians. It is an invitation from a group of First Nations people to non-Indigenous Australians where the Statement calls for substantive reform to help realise Indigenous rights, through the establishment of an Indigenous Voice to Parliament and a Makarrata Commission. Whilst the referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament was not successful, what role can each of us play for such a voice to be heard and honoured in the true meaning of reconciliation?

Over the next 3 weeks, Mrs Flanagan will be on Long Service Leave. Following this I will be on Principal Renewal Leave from Week 8 of this term until the end of Week 4 of Term 3. During my Renewal Leave, I will be studying at ACU in Rome participating in a study tour named Catholic Education: Mission, Spirituality and Culture. Whilst attending the Australian Catholic University in Rome, I will be in lectures each day as well as visiting the key sites sacred to our faith, including many visits to the Vatican and being part of a Papal Audience. Across the time of both Mrs Flanagan’s and my leave, I thank Mrs Camporeale for taking on the position of Acting Assistant Principal and to Miss Touma for becoming the Acting Leader of Religious Education and Mission. Please continue to keep Mrs Flanagan and her family in your prayers over the next few weeks as she mourns the recent loss of her mother.

Semester 1 Principal Awards

Year 12

Year 11

Robyn Rodwell

College Principal

From the Assistant Principal

Once again, Bethany College will be participating in an online survey - Tell Them From Me (TTFM). The survey gives us valuable feedback on what our community thinks about many aspects of school life. The information you provide will be used to maintain our commitment to working together in partnership to further improve student learning and wellbeing at Bethany.

The survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete and you are able to access the parent survey on your computer or mobile device. A link to the survey was sent to all households today via Compass but can also be found below.  

Your feedback is greatly appreciated. 

Next week, there are a number of important events taking place at the College. Our Year 7 students depart for camp on Monday 27th May. We have our Academic Awards assembly taking place on Tuesday 28th May and Year 12 students leave for their retreat on Wednesday 29th May. Finally, Year 10 begin their journey towards subject selection for Year 11 with AcademicAssessment  and Careers testing on Friday 31st May. 

Please see the table for other important events over the next few weeks. 

Important Dates for Term 2

Kristina Flanagan

Assistant Principal

Religious Education

Pentecost: The Birthday of the Church and Its Everlasting Mission

Pentecost, derived from the Greek word "Pentēkostē" meaning fiftieth, has its roots in the Jewish Feast of Weeks (Shavuot), which celebrated the harvest and the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. For Christians, Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ, as described in Acts 2:1-4. This miraculous event, characterized by the apostles speaking in diverse tongues, symbolized the breaking down of barriers and the universal nature of the Christian message. Last Sunday, we celebrated Pentecost and its profound significance for the enduring mission it imparts to believers worldwide. Often celebrated on the 50th day after Easter, Pentecost is not just an historical event but a cornerstone of Christian faith, marking the birth of the Church and the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to send the Holy Spirit.

On Pentecost, the Church was born not as an institution but as a vibrant, Spirit-filled community. The apostles, once fearful and uncertain, were transformed into bold proclaimers of the Gospel. This newfound courage and unity empowered them to carry forward Jesus' mission, spreading His teachings of love, compassion, and salvation to the ends of the earth. It was a day that marked the beginning of a movement that would grow to encompass the globe.

Pentecost serves as a powerful reminder that the mission and vision of Jesus are not confined to the past. The same Holy Spirit that descended upon the early disciples is at work in the Church today, inspiring us to continue the work of Christ. This mission involves more than preaching; it calls us to live out the Gospel through acts of love, justice, and service.

In a world often divided by race, culture, and ideology, the message of Pentecost is especially relevant. It challenges us to bridge divides, foster understanding, and create inclusive communities that reflect the Kingdom of God. By embracing the Holy Spirit's guidance, we can work towards a world where peace and justice prevail, echoing the early Church's commitment to transformative action.

Pentecost is a living reality that empowers and energises the Church to be a force for good in the world. In honour of this sacred day, let us commit to being active participants in Jesus' mission, embodying His love and truth in all we do.

Bethany’s Artist in Residence

Stephanie Sertic of Year 11, a talented artist and young woman of profound faith at our school, was recently commissioned to create an inspiring artwork depicting Martha and Mary of Bethany. This piece will be prominently featured in all our school liturgical events, serving as a vivid reminder of the great role models these women represent in our community. Through her art, Stephanie beautifully captures Martha’s spirit of service and Mary’s devotion to contemplation, encouraging us to embody these virtues in our daily lives. Her work not only honours these biblical figures but also inspires us to find balance between action and reflection in our own faith journeys.

10:10 Project Parish Night

Students from various local schools gathered at St. Declan's for the 10:10 Parish Night, an event designed by the Mission and Identity Team at Sydney Catholic Schools to foster community and spiritual growth among young people. The evening was a vibrant mix of fun and faith, featuring engaging games that promote teamwork and new friendships. These activities helped to break the ice and build a sense of camaraderie among the students.

A highlight of the night was the catechesis sessions led by Mr Chris Nolan of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. These sessions provided insightful teachings and discussions, allowing students to explore and deepen their understanding of their faith. The St. Vincent de Paul Society's involvement added a layer of service and community awareness to the evening. The event concluded with a sacred time of adoration, offering students an opportunity for quiet reflection and spiritual connection. This peaceful end to the night allowed participants to contemplate the lessons learned and the bonds formed throughout the evening.

The 10:10 Parish Night at St. Declan's was a memorable and enriching experience, strengthening the bonds between local schools and nurturing the spiritual lives of the students.

Sara Camporeale

Leader of Religious Education and Mission

Teaching and Learning News

Stage 6 Subject Selection Parent Information Evening

Parents of Year 10 are reminded about the Stage 6 Subject Selection evening on Tuesday 18th June. The presentation will begin at 6:00pm in Yallunga Hall. Students are expected to be in full school uniform and seated with their family. This forms an essential part of the subject selection process and provides families with key information regarding the new changes to the HSC and ATAR eligibility. Students will be coming home with their subject selection handbook on Friday the 31st May. Please take the time to read through all the information provided in this booklet with your daughter. 

Stage 5 Subject Selection Parent Information Evening

Parents of Year 8 are reminded about the Stage 5 Subject Selection evening on Tuesday 25th June. The presentation will begin at 6:00pm in Yallunga Hall. Students are expected to be in full school uniform and seated with their family. Attendance at the information session is essential for all families.

Study Skills - Habits of Effective Students

Tuesday 4th June (6-7:30pm) in Yallunga Hall the College will host Dr Prue Salter from Enhanced Learning, who will present a series of practical strategies to assist students with their study.  All parents and their daughters are encouraged to attend to gain valuable insights into improving their approach to study and maximising their performance and achievement at school.

Academic Assessment Services Tests and Subject Selection Meeting

Friday 31st May Year 10 will sit a series of tests which are administered by Academic Assessment Services (AAS).These tests were formally known as the Allwell Tests and Year 10 students may have completed similar tests in Year 6, Year 8 and Year 10. The tests will be held at school in Penola rooms and will run from 9am-1:10pm. After lunch Year 10 will attend a subject selection meeting in Yallunga to outline the steps moving froward toc choosing their Stage 6 subjects for Year 11 and 12.

Sarah Rowland - Leader of Curriculum

Cameron Paff - Leader of Data and Growth

Wellbeing Update

Each year Bethany students complete the Wellbeing survey, with questions designed to gather data on areas such as  student social media use, sleep patterns, hours spent doing homework and study. There are also voluntary free-response questions to gauge student voice and school experience of bullying, learning in the classroom and areas of improvement for pastoral programs and year group activities.

The survey was run again this year in Week 3 and, at present, the Pastoral team are reading the responses, looking for trends in the data, and discerning needs for the student population as a whole moving forward.

Please have a chat with your daughter as to what the questions were and the types of responses that she provided.

Our second Parent Engagement evening for the year was an informative and critical look at the way that our young people are engaging with the digital world in all its forms, focussing on social media and gaming in particular.

Samantha Wood, who volunteers for the “ThinkUKnow” organisation, provided parents with a comprehensive overview of the types of ways that teenagers are interacting online, and the possible and real dangers of these exchanges. Various strategies and suggestions for parents and families were provided, with the central message that parents need to know what their adolescents are doing online and who their interchanges are with. With the continuing sophistication of technology, it is becoming easier for young people to be communicating with people that they don’t know, and for those who with ill intent to gain details about our teenagers.

There are various resources on the “ThinkUKnow” site linked here, the three specific family resources that Sam highlighted are linked below.

Social media kit    Gaming and other devices    Guide to online safety           

Bethany attendance has increased by 0.4% in the last two weeks to 92.9%! This is certainly in the right direction and getting closer to our 2024 target attendance of 95%.

As we know, regular school attendance forms the foundation of learning. Research shows that consistent attendance is directly linked to strong academic achievement. When students attend school regularly, they are more likely to keep up with lessons, engage in classroom discussions and complete tasks on time. Effective routines are built which foster success, and this in terms drives academic achievement. Please continue to support your daughter’s in attending school each and every day.

Free Parent seminars from the Kidman Centre, based at Prince of Wales hospital Randwick

The Kidman Centre UTS is a clinical treatment unit dedicated to understanding, preventing, and reducing mental health issues in young people. At our centre, which has been in operation in Sydney for 37 years, we specialise in treating children and teenagers, with a particular focus on helping children with emotional and behavioural problems. For more information on the centre please see our website: www.tkc.uts.edu.au

Charlotte Buxton

Leader of Wellbeing

From the Languages Department

Benvenuta Martina! Welcome Martina!

This week, we welcomed Martina Marino, our Italian Language Assistant to the College. Martina will be working with Mr Gianni and Mrs Criniti in the Languages Department. Martina is part of the Co.As.It Language Assistants Program that places university graduates from Italy in schools to support teachers and students.  

The Program objectives are to:

• provide teachers and students with opportunities to increase their fluency in Italian, knowledge and understanding of Italy, its language and culture
• promote language learning and intercultural understanding 

We warmly welcome Martina to Bethany College and hope she has an enjoyable time at Bethany. Below is a note from her in both Italian and English for you to read. 

Ciao a tutti! Sono Martina Marino e sono qui come assistente di Italiano per dare supporto alle studentesse nell’apprendimento di questa lingua. Abito a Siena, in Toscana, dove mi sono laureata in Lingua e Cultura cinese, creando un progetto di insegnamento dell’italiano tramite il Teatro. Grazie ai miei studi, so bene quanto sia difficile imparare una nuova lingua, ma al tempo stesso, mi sono resa conto che è un’opportunità incredibile per aprirsi al mondo, crescere e connettersi con le persone.

Sono molto grata di essere qui e di aiutarvi con questa meravigliosa lingua.

Grazie della vostra accoglienza

Martina

Hi everyone! I'm Martina Marino and I'm here as an Italian assistant to support students in learning this language. I live in Siena, Tuscany, where I graduated in Chinese language and culture. I undertook a project regarding the teaching of Italian through theater. Thanks to my studies I know how difficult it is to learn a new language, but at the same time it is an incredible opportunity to open up to the world, grow and connect with people.

I am very grateful to be here and to help you with this wonderful language.

Thank you for your welcome

Martina

Polyglots Update 

On Tuesday 7th May the Polyglots session was based on Eurovision. The students enjoyed participating in Eurovision trivia and looking at various statistics regarding all the different languages represented in the competition. The session ended by listening to various Eurovision hits as the students tried to decipher the language of the winning songs. 

All students in Years 7-12 are welcome to attend Polyglots, a group which gathers to encourage and foster the love of different languages and cultures. Further details to come via Compass regarding details of future Polyglots sessions. Hope to see you there. 

“The limits of my language means the limits of my world” Ludwig Wittgenstein

Enza Criniti

Italian Teacher

AVA CHOW – LANGUAGE AMBASSADOR FOR NSW SCHOOL OF LANGUAGES

In a new student leadership initiative starting this year, the NSW School of Languages has chosen our Year 11 student Ava Chow to be awarded the title and responsibilities of a Language Ambassador.

The group of eighteen representatives chosen from across New South Wales will be involved in projects focussing on language promotion and student wellbeing. The first event will be an induction, training and planning day next Monday at the Petersham campus.

Ava has studied Italian from Year 8 and is achieving great success in her Continuers course. The same results are being attained in her Chinese Continuers studies – definitely the credentials needed in being an Ambassador and role model to all students.

Bethany College congratulates Ava on her wonderful achievements and we all look forward to seeing which initiatives she helps to bring to fruition.

Marco Gianni

Teacher-in-Charge, Languages

Year 9 Be Challenged Workshop

The Italian Job

• Improve Team Dynamics
• Leadership Skills
• Enhance Communication Skills

In the Year 9 pastoral period last Tuesday, they were involved in an absorbing team-building program called The Italian Job that aimed to develop teamwork by creating a fun but competitive environment.  The activities were selected to develop teamwork skills and foster effective communication and leadership within the groups. The reward for completion of each one will help them gain access to their safe. As time progressed, each team attempted to steal their way to victory and win the prizes for the day by being the first group to crack the code in their safe. This program is a great way to develop team camaraderie as they compete to unlock the safes and win prizes. The Italian Job offers a team-building experience in which even the most reluctant groups become deeply involved when they realise real rewards are at stake.

Student feedback

“It was really fun and challenging, and it made you have to think and brainstorm with your peers”. - Liana C.

“It was really fun and got to meet people I have never talked to, and it involved a lot of teamwork: - Amelia B.

Katrine Barnes

Year 9 Coordinator

Performing Arts News

Congratulations to the Year 11 Dance elective Dance Class, who represented the College at the Sydney Catholic Schools Eisteddfod on Wednesday 15^th of May at Mount St Joseph’s at Milperra. Our Bethany Team Dancers performed their Class Modern Lyrical Dance ‘The Day You Went Away’ choreographed by their teacher Ms Danielle Como. They were absolutely stunning on stage, congratulations ladies!

Leni Alas, Amelia Bass, Sarah Byrne, Siena Hatizianestis, Francesa Konstandoulias, Samantha Kubina, Valentina Maalouf, Emma McHardy and Jenna-Lee Rolph

Danielle Como

Dance Teacher

Year 11 Hospitality

Year 11 Hospitality worked as a kitchen brigade to make these delicious mini beef sliders. The girls worked so well as a team led by their head chef Sarah to make food truck worthy sliders. 

Adrianna Coleman

Hospitality Teacher

Harmony Week Poster Competition

In Term One this year, students in all schools in NSW were invited to take part in a poster competition to celebrate Harmony Week, which recognises the wonderful diversity of culture in Australia. This competition attracts thousands of entries across the state.  

In very exciting news, our own Scarlett Horne (Year 8) won first place in the Year 7/8 section. Scarlett will be presented with her certificate at a special ceremony at Parliament House in June, where her entry will then be judged with the Year 9-12 categories for the overall winner of the Senior category. Congratulations to Scarlett on this outstanding achievement!

Charlotte Buxton

Leader of wellbeing

Careers News

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 September.

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.

University 2024 Open Day dates

All   here

Undergraduate Course Guides 2025

Universities, TAFE and College Guides

2025 Undergraduate Course Guides  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.

UOW Open Day

22 June

The University of Wollongong (UOW) Open Day is the perfect opportunity to visit our amazing Wollongong campus, speak with our staff and students, and see why UOW is ranked as one of the best universities for student experience.

University of Sydney - Music Portfolio Evening Online

4 June

Make your application stand out and join us at our Music Portfolio Evening on Tuesday 4 June. We encourage you to take this opportunity to receive tailored advice from our academic staff and gain valuable insights to elevate your portfolio, which is a crucial element to your application to study a Bachelor of Music (Composition), Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Composition), Bachelor of Music Composition for Creative Industries Program, and Bachelor of Music Contemporary Music Practice Program at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

Reminder - University of Sydney Webinar - Pathways to studying Law at Sydney

12 June

Did you know, there are many pathways to studying law at the University of Sydney? Join our panel of current students who've entered our vibrant law community through alternative pathways, transfers, or graduate entry. Uncover the possibilities and find your unique journey to legal excellence.

UNSW Co-Op Scholarship

Application Closes 30 September

A Co-op Program scholarship provides industry training, professional development, networking and financial support for selected undergraduate students in the disciplines of Business, Engineering, and Science. Today, it is the largest and most prestigious scholarship program of its type in Australia and a leader in career development learning. There are over 300 current Co-op scholars who join more than 3,500 UNSW Co-op Alumni. The experience and networks our scholars develop enrich their time at university and give them an invaluable head start upon entering the work force.

Discover Western Webinar - Pathways, Alternative Entry and Early Offers 

Tuesday 11 June at 5pm.

Hear from Western staff and current students about the HSC True Reward Early Offer program, how to accept an early offer and change preferences, other alternate entry programs and more. 

The University of Sydney - Year 10 Subject Selection Evening 

3 June, 6:00-7:30pm 

Learn everything to know about HSC subject selection, university applications and admissions with USYD information evening, designed to help Year 10 students and their caregivers navigate the journey to university with confidence. Speakers, including university staff and students will cover key information about subject selection, prerequisites and the ATAR. 

Celebrating Women in Engineering Day - Panel Session for Careers, Teachers & Parents | 21 June @UTS 

To celebrate International Women in Engineering Day ask “why do we think it is just for the boys?” Meet female Engineers from various areas of Engineering; why is diversity so important? What does the future look like? What does it take to be a good Engineer? UTS Building 1, Lecture Hall from 9.30am-10.45am - Or via Zoom.

Webinar - Find Out about the Academic Insights 2025 Sydney Summer School

4th June

Welcome to the Sydney Summer School Programme at the University of Sydney, tailored for individuals aged 13-18, presenting an enriching and one-of-a-kind educational journey. Embark on a voyage where young learners can delve into a diverse array of subjects and fully immerse themselves in the dynamic academic environment of the University of Sydney.

This is a unique opportunity to learn about the program and get firsthand insights from key members and alumni.

What to Expect:

• An overview of the Academic Insights Program
• A chance to hear from Lina Sernaite (Immerse Education Regional Manager)
• Insights from Scarlett Flanders (Sydney Program Alumni)
• Academic perspectives from a Program Academic Lecturer
• Special presentation by Zobair Bary (Academic Director at the National Institute of Education on Applying to Australian Universities.

Term 2 EOI’s Still Open for UTS Startups Entrepreneurship Workshops | Years 9-10 

Unlock the world of entrepreneurship with UTS Startups. Dive into engaging workshops led by young entrepreneurs, tailored for Years 9-10 students. Students can explore inspiring journeys, brainstorm and pitch their own business. 

Women Building New South Wales

At Women Building New South Wales, we firmly believe that women are uniquely equipped to excel in trades and construction. We celebrate the strength and resilience inherent in women, recognising their exceptional abilities. We aim to create a space where women feel empowered, valued, and inspired to contribute their skills and expertise to this dynamic industry.

SAE Early Entry Creative Media Institute

Year 12 students can confirm their place with SAE before they sit their final school exam.

Complete a simple application form that includes your current school name and the course you wish to study.

An SAE Course Advisor will then chat with you about your course options and confirm your eligibility  No ATAR.

Checks:

• Current Year 12 student, passing all Year 12 subjects, and / or
• 18 years of age or turning 18 the first year of study with SAE
• An Australian Citizen and permanent resident

ICMS Early Entry Now Open International College of Management Sydney

Applications close 6 September

Early Entry is designed for high-achieving HSC students who want to secure a place at ICMS in February 2024 before sitting their final exams. If you don’t believe that Early Entry is the right Alternate Entry Pathway for you, consider applying for the Elite Athlete/Performer Pathway Program or the Leadership Entry Program. Alternatively, make a Direct Application.

Sydney Film School 

2025 Applications Now Open

Applications to study at Sydney Film School in 2025 are open now. You will have classes in all aspects of filmmaking, ranging from screenwriting, to producing, directing and post-production classes. Build your portfolio with projects from a music video to short films.

Last chance to register - Introduction to Cyber Security Webinar from AIBI Higher Education

28 May

Discover what the exciting (and well-paid) world of cyber security is all about.

Hear IT expert and AIBI Higher Education Dean, Dr. Raj Sandu, discuss what cyber security really is. Learn about cyber security’s significance in 2024 and beyond. Dr. Sandu will also be covering current cyber security trends, including Machine Learning (ML) and AI.

The webinar will be approximately 45 minutes long and is a great introduction to cyber security.

NIDA Open Day 2024

15 June

From costume design and stage management to acting and musical theatre, learn more about our course offerings and explore behind the scenes of Australia’s leading dramatic arts educator at NIDA Open Day in 2024.

Interested in studying at NIDA, or just curious about what we offer? NIDA Open Day is the perfect opportunity for prospective students to visit the campus and get a taste of the NIDA experience. NIDA theatres, workshops, studios and creative spaces come alive with new and current students, ready to explore the arts.

Whether you want to be centre stage or behind the scenes, you can learn about all NIDA’s course offerings, meet alumni and current students, observe classroom activities, check out students’ creative work in costume, make-up and more, as well as ask questions during our faculty panels and even watch student productions.

National Fashion College 

Early Entry Applications Now Open. National Fashion College offers an exclusive boutique experience with a tailored Internship Program in partnership with 600+ global brands, shaping the next generation of Fashion leaders.

Sydney Design School - Designer for a Day Workshop

11 July

Curious about what it might be like to work as an Interior Designer? We have developed the perfect one day workshop for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to find out more. You’ll get hands on in our studios experimenting with colour and materials. Find out what it takes to become a professional Interior Designer and understand what an average day looks like on the job! We’ve included a 3D modelling activity to give you an opportunity to create an interior space.

Be quick to grab your spot, we have a maximum of 24 students per workshop. We hope to see you there!

Sydney Design School - Interior Decoration Workshop

10 &11 July

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.

Royal Australian Chemical Institute - International Chemistry Quiz (ICQ)

Closes 31 August

The ICQ stands out as a unique chemistry education initiative, providing a dynamic and focused exploration of chemistry for school students between years 7 - 12. It aims to kindle interest in chemistry and underscore the crucial role of chemists in society. It serves as an opportunity for teachers to gauge their students understanding of chemistry and acts as a platform to encourage students to pursue studies and careers in chemistry. Going beyond standard syllabus content, the Quiz is designed to be engaging and thought-provoking. With questions that encourage students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios, ICQ is truly an international competition, attracting participants from Australia and across the world. Come explore the world of chemistry!

Scholarships Australia Wide

No matter what you are intending to study and where, you will be sure to find some financial assistance on offer to help you pay for it. There are currently more than 3000 scholarships available to Australianstudents, across both the higher education and vocational sectors. Scholarships can cover an array of costs from tuition fees to living and accommodation costs, our advice is to investigate your options early on as the amount of information to get through and applications to fill can be overwhelming.

All about the Australian Defence Force Academy

Forged from a unique partnership between the ADF and the University of New South Wales, ADFA in Canberra offers world-class education plus cutting-edge military and leadership training. It’s where you can undertake military training while being paid to study for a world-class undergraduate degree.

As an ADFA student, you’ll receive a great salary plus full medical and dental cover and have all your tuition fees and student expenses covered by the ADF. You’ll graduate Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)-debt free and walk straight into a rewarding career in the Navy, Army or Air Force.

What’s your STEM + animals career?

Vet science, genetics, animal welfare and conservation – if you love animals then this is the no 1 career stop for combining STEM + Animals careers.

Register Your Interest for the Westpac Young Technologist Scholarship

The Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship was made for talented and inquisitive high school graduates looking to strengthen their passion and expertise in technology to innovate and create new opportunities and inspire good in the world of STEM.

Our Young Technologists Scholars get up to three years of financial support for their studies, networking opportunities, mentoring programs and paid internships with senior business leaders and industry-based experts as well as the chance to develop critical soft skills through the Disruptive Leaders Program. The program includes five days in Asia as part of an international learning experience to broaden minds and inspire new ways of thinking. 

Scholars must be intending to commence a STEM related degree at one of our five partner universities across Australia, though you do not need to have received a formal offer at the time of your application.

Melanie Bullock

Careers Advisor

From the School Counsellor

Autonomy and Mastery

One of the many challenges of supporting adolescents is the fine balance between offering support, and encouraging growth, autonomy, self-discovery and independence. Essentially, we want our children to pursue their goals and interests, with the aim of living a healthy, happy and meaningful life.

Fostering a sense of autonomy and mastery is key in helping our children to navigate this developmental period. Mastery refers to the feeling of competence and control over one’s abilities, skills and/or environment. A sense of mastery occurs when we practice an activity and improve our skill in this area, and contributes to the development of purpose and fulfilment.

Autonomy refers to the ability to make one's own decisions consistent with self-beliefs – that is, having choice about a decision or activity. For our teenagers, this often involves having the freedom and independence to explore new activities and experiences.

A term that is often used in developmental psychology is ‘scaffolding’. Just like the construction of a building, scaffolding in parenting-terms refers to supporting our children to reach new heights – forming the framework and supporting your child to grow, develop, and learn.

Autonomy and mastery are also important when we think of motivation. When we feel that we have control over our environment and can pursue activities that we are passionate about, we are more likely to experience a sense of satisfaction and engagement.

Try this!

• Encourage your child in their decision-making. This can help them to develop a sense of control over their life and increase their confidence and self-efficacy in their decision-making abilities.
• Set clear, consistent, and appropriate rules at home (for older adolescents, you may consider involving them in the process of setting boundaries). Encourage your child to take responsibility for their actions.
• Support your child to set specific and challenging goals that are aligned with their interests and strengths. This can help to motivate them towards achieving these goals and provide a sense of accomplishment.
• Provide various opportunities for skill-building. Encourage your child to engage in healthy and prosocial activities that allow them to build, develop and practice new skills.
• Encourage and support effort and persistence, even in the face of challenge or set-back.
• Create an environment where your child feels comfortable taking risks and making mistakes.

Dimity 

School Counsellor

HSC DANCE SHOWCASE