Term 4 - Week 2

A Message from the Principal

Dear Parents, Carers and Friends of Bethany,

One of the great honours that can be bestowed on a person is to be noticed and voted into leadership from one’s peers. Congratulations to our newly elected leaders for 2025. Our new leaders celebrated a beautiful Mass with our new Parish Priest Fr Thomasz Lepek, staff and their families. It was wonderful to see the pride in family members' faces of their daughter being 1 of just 12 students elected to represent over 1100 students next year. At Mass, I spoke to the girls about the fact that with great honour comes much responsibility and my hope that each girl will lead our College with pride, enthusiasm and wisdom in order to further strengthen student voice. Training has already occurred for our new leaders and they have already begun to fulfil jobs within their portfolios.

Last week we were delighted to welcome Mrs Vanessa Hudson - Chief Executive Officer of QANTAS to our College. Vanessa spoke to students about her education, initial choice of study, work history and family background. The visit was staged in a Q&A style with Vanessa emphasising that every opportunity offered to her she said yes to and took each offer as an opportunity to learn. Vanessa began at QANTAS 30 years ago in a male dominated arena. During Vanessa’s various leadership roles she chose to learn and excel wherever possible. Vanessa raised her family and devoted time to both her work and family life which meant that at times, she was not able to access higher leadership in order to maintain her choice of a balance between family and work. What was striking about this was that Vanessa chose to learn and move into other QANTAS positions in what was thought to be sideway moves which has given her much depth and experience in knowing so many departments within QANTAS. This had served her well in being appointed in the role of CEO.

Vanessa spoke about the importance of people in her role and that gratitude and the willingness to work hard and take on opportunities on offer helped to form her in her role today.

I thank Mrs Zita Cranston, mother of Ava Yr 9 and Mila Yr 7 for helping to arrange this visit.

I wish all families and warm welcome back to Term 4 and look forward to watching students take full advantage of opportunities this term as they move forward into the final weeks of the year.

Robyn Rodwell

College Principal

From the Assistant Principal

Welcome back to Term 4. It has been a great start to the final term of the school year and nice to see our students returning to school looking rested and relaxed. The term is looking to be a busy one with lots of events and our new school leaders are coming up with lots of ways to create community spirit.

With a noticeable increase in the number of young people presenting with mental health concerns, the Council of Catholic School parents has engaged Dr Justin Coulson, an expert in Youth Mental Health, to present for our parents. The webinar is next Wednesday evening and is available online. If this is something that you would be interested in, the link to the presentation is below. If you would like to know more about the presentation, here is a link to the article outlining the details of the event: Dr Justin Coulson presents: Unpacking the Crisis in Youth Mental Health

UNPACKING THE CRISIS IN YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH
With Dr Justin Coulson
WHEN: Wednesday 30 October 2024
TIME: 7pm – 8pm

Here’s the link to click on the night: Council of Catholic Schools Parents | Breaking Point | 7pm AEDT

Today is World Teachers’ Day. It is a day that honours the dedication, hard work, and passion of teachers who play a crucial role in shaping the minds and futures of our young people. I want to particularly thank our staff for the incredible work they do every day and the positive impact they have on our students. I’m so lucky to work with such a talented and dedicated group of people! 

A reminder that Wednesday, 13th November is a staff development day and students are not at school on this day. Should your daughter need supervision on Wednesday please send an email to: info@bethany.catholic.edu.au

Important Dates for Term 4

Kristina Flanagan

Assistant Principal

Religious Education

2025 Student Leaders’ Commissioning Mass

The Mass for the commissioning of the student leaders for 2025 is a profound moment in the school community, where we gather to celebrate and bless those who will take on the mantle of leadership in the coming year. This sacred liturgy reminds us of the servant leadership modeled by Jesus Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve. Through the Eucharist, we are reminded of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and his call for us to lead with humility, compassion, and love. As these student leaders are commissioned, they are invited to embody these virtues in their service to the school and wider community, recognising their leadership as a form of ministry that reflects Christ's example.

In accepting these roles, the student leaders are not merely stepping into positions of authority but are committing themselves to a life of service, much like Christ’s own journey. The role model of Jesus is central to their commission; he taught that true leadership is found in selfless service to others. This Mass, therefore, is both a celebration and a solemn reminder that leadership is not about power or prestige, but about serving the needs of others with integrity, kindness, and grace. May the spirit of Christ guide these new leaders as they inspire their peers, uphold the values of Bethany, and live out the mission of servant leadership in all that they do.

Charitable Works Fund

In 2024, the Charitable Works Fund (CWF) Fundraising Appeal will focus on supporting CatholicCare Disability Services, which plays a crucial role in enhancing the lives of people living with disabilities. CatholicCare provides a range of vital services, including social programs that foster lasting friendships, promote community involvement, and develop life skills. They also offer one-on-one assistance for attending appointments and activities, hands-on work experience to build skills for employment, and tailored support to help individuals find the right job. Additionally, CatholicCare assists people both at home and in the community, delivering top-quality services like gardening and cleaning, ensuring that individuals can live with greater independence and dignity.

Inspired by the legacy of St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop, who urged us to "never see a need without doing something about it," we are called to respond to the needs of our time. Our College community will participate in this mission by holding a mufti day on Friday 8 November with a minimum of a gold coin donation to raise funds for the CWF, supporting agencies that provide such essential care. Your generosity and participation in this event are greatly appreciated, as they will help make a profound difference in the lives of those who rely on these services. Together, we can follow in the footsteps of St. Mary MacKillop and make a positive impact in our community.

Sara Camporeale
Leader of Religious Education and Mission

Teaching and Learning News

Year 12 2025 Pattern of Study Interviews

The incoming HSC class of 2025 had the opportunity to meet with their teachers on Monday to discuss their HSC pattern of study. Students were well prepared for the interviews and were receptive to the feedback provided to them. Students are now able to make adjustments to their pattern of study, including dropping units. Our advice, based on research, is that students maintain a 10 or 11 unit program throughout the HSC year. Additionally, we are advising any students who are studying an extension subject to wait a few weeks before dropping down to this provides ample study time and can allow students to better manage their time.

Year 8 and 10 Subject Changes

Students in Year 8 and 10 have been provided with their elective choices for 2024. Elective classes that are running have been created based on the demand from students. Over the past week students have been given the opportunity to change their choice. We encourage families to discuss any proposed change with their daughters.

HSC 

Year 12 students started their HSC examinations on the 15th October and the feedback from students and their teachers so far is that the examinations have been very fair. Students have been well prepared for their final examinations and it has been great to see students leave examinations with a smile on their faces. Examinations continue until the 7th November. We wish all of Year 12 the best of luck and encourage them to be consistent with the revision and make sure that they make contact with their teachers if they have any questions or would like feedback on practice responses.

PAT

On Monday 28th October Year 7-10 will complete PAT (Progressive Achievement Tests) tests for Reading and Maths. These adaptive tests measure student knowledge, skills and understanding in these areas and help teachers to  pinpoint where they are in their learning journey – and what they need to progress. Year 7 and 8 will sit their tests during Period 1 and 2 and Year 9 and 10 in Periods 3 and 4. Students will need to ensure they bring a fully charred laptop with them to these tests.

STUDY TIPS

Sarah Rowland                                                                 Cameron Paff     

Leader of Curriculum                                                      Leader of Data & Growth

Wellbeing News

Two reflections from students on the recent “My Resilience” program that Year 7 participated in towards the end of last term:

During Week 9 of Term 3, Year 7 participated in the My Resilience Program. This program empowered students to uncover their unique strengths and personalities and learnt how to use these qualities to build resilience. We were inspired by educators who shared their stories of overcoming challenges using their strengths.

Afterwards, we were split into groups to complete a survey that would determine our best strengths. Using this, we participated in many activities that revealed other people's strengths and the one that fit them the most. 

Finally, we came back together to reflect on the strengths that we have and how we can use them to become a better person. In this short reflection time, we were also exposed to the types of mindsets we have (Growth and Fixed Mindset) and how they affected the way we think and feel.

"Overall, this program has helped many of us build our mindset, our perspectives and confidence, and most importantly, our resilience"              Arianne Faisan

"This term was full of fun and joy, my favourite moment being when we had the resilience incursion. I really enjoyed this incursion as it showed me my better qualities and gave me more confidence in myself and my personality"                  Chelsea Yu

Year 12 2025 Student leader induction day

The new 2025 school leaders worked with Mrs Bullock, Ms Bevan and Mrs Buxton on their leadership day this week. The girls discussed the qualities of leadership, reflected on their own and each other's strengths, and participated in some collaborative games and exercises to develop their team mentality. It was inspiring to witness the passion and drive of this group, and hear their thoughts on how we can improve the wonderful College that we already have here at Bethany.  The pillars of Faith, Intellect and Character formed the basis of their philosophy and ideas; we look forward to welcoming them as a leadership team at our upcoming assembly in Week 5, and to the positive impact that they will have on our school community in 2025.

Parent information

Follow this link for a video on the science of sleep and the impact of sleep quality on student learning and exams. There are some very good apps recommended in the accompanying article that may help with student organisation, distraction or meditation.

Charlotte Buxton

Leader of Wellbeing

Languages News

Italian Film Festival

Mrs Criniti’s Year 10 Italian class attended the Italian film festival at Palace Cinemas Leichhardt. They watched “La guerra dei nonni” (The war of the nonni) which sees two grandfathers battle to win the love and affection of their grandchildren, resulting in a series of hilarious challenges between Nonno Tom and Nonno Gerri, with plenty of twists and turns. After the movie the students enjoyed an Italian lunch at Moretti’s followed by a gelato at the well known Bar Italia. Of course the day wouldn’t have been complete without a stop at Mezzapica for a sweet on the way home. A day full of cultural experiences, it was just perfetto!

Arrivederci Martina! Goodbye Martina! 

Last week, we farewelled Martina Marino, our Italian Language Assistant. Martina has been working with our senior Italian students and supporting Mr Gianni and Mrs Criniti in the Languages Department across Terms 2-3. Martina is part of the Co.As.It Language Assistants Program that places university graduates from Italy in schools to support teachers and students.  

We thank Martina for all her contributions during her time at Bethany. The students have truly enjoyed having her share her knowledge of the Italian language and culture with them. We wish Martina all the best for the future. 

We also would like to thank Co.As.It for giving Bethany College the opportunity to participate in the Language Assistant Program. 

Auguri Ava! Congratulations Ava!

Ava Chow of Year 11 was nominated by Mrs Criniti for the Marco Polo Award for Excellence in Italian Language and Culture. Ava had to write 100-150 words in Italian on the topic il mio amore per l’italiano (my love for italian) and Mrs Criniti had to provide a teacher statement which outlined Ava’s linguistic abilities and learning aptitude.  

Nominations from all over NSW were assessed and Ava's strong application was awarded one of five non-monetary awards. Ava along with the other award winners were recently featured in Allora! the Italian Australian newspaper. 

Ava and Mrs Criniti will be attending an official awards ceremony in November. 

Enza Criniti

Italian Teacher

Performing Arts

COLLEGE CHOIR PERFORMANCE

Congratulations to the College Choir on their recent performance at the United Hospital Auxiliaries of NSW Annual Conference. The choir was invited to perform as guests arrived as well as leading the conference with the National Anthem. Students sang several ensemble pieces as well as duets and trios, showcasing their exceptional musical talent. Thank you to Ms Pascuzzo and Ms Moncrieff for their preparation and rehearsal.

Clare Moroney

Performing Arts Coordinator

Library News

In this week’s newsletter, I am pleased to share the winners of our Book Art competition and feedback we received on our Bound Together reading initiative. I would also like to remind you about the Library’s wealth of resources that are available for research. Term 4 has begun well with our HSC students using our space for study in preparation for HSC exams.

Book Week ‘Book Art’ Competition winners

As part of Book Week celebrations, our Book Art Competition encouraged students to redesign a book cover of their choice. Many thanks to Ms Rodwell and the Art Department for their involvement in the judging process. We’d love to congratulate the following students who were selected as winners for the various categories.

• Principal's Award - Dark Rise - By Vivian Tan
• Art Department Award - Boy in the Tower - By Noella Shaiju
• Library Award - The Hunger Games - By Clarice Greenhalgh
• Encouragement Award - Charlotte's Web - By Estelle Swindon

Feedback for the 2024 Bound Together Program

At the end of Term 2, students and their parents were given the opportunity to be involved in a new reading initiative called the ‘Bound Together’ program. The program was not only designed to encourage our students to enjoy reading, but also to promote reading engagement by having students and parents/caregivers read the same book, at the same time, discussing what is happening and what might happen.

With the majority of books now read, a survey was sent out asking for feedback. It was pleasing to see that many parents are keen to participate again. Their enjoyment of the program can be seen through the comments we received:

• ‘We loved this initiative. It was fun picking a book that we thought we would both enjoy. It was also good to ask each other which part of the book we were up to and to chat about the story etc. It really was great and a good time to bond. We always encourage our kids to read, but this was a nice change to actually read together’ 

• ‘Overall the Bound Together program is a wonderful initiative. This program not only fosters a love for reading but also strengthens the bond between a parent and their child through shared discussions and emotional connection. It is a great way to encourage open communication and empathy. It was a heartwarming way to combine the joy of reading with quality family time’ 

• ‘I think the program is a great way to get parents and children connecting’

We look forward to bringing this initiative back again in 2025!

Learning resources available via the Library

Are you aware that your daughter has access to a range of resources to assist them with their research through the Library? Students are encouraged to access Oliver, the Library catalogue (via Compass, star icon), to begin their search before commencing a search on the internet:

• The following sources are available via the search function: books, ebooks, audiobooks, videos and educationally approved websites.
• Subscriptions via the Oliver homepage
  • Britannica Online: Millions of up-to-date, educationally approved articles, images and videos
  • Image Quest: Millions of credible and reliable images and videos
  • Sydney Morning Herald: This includes weekday and weekend issues (current and past).
  • Online Referencing Generator (SLASA): To use for generating references for a bibliography that uses correct formatting. Simply follow instructions and generate a reference in a matter of seconds

Below is a screenshot of the Oliver homepage, where you can see a lot of the resources mentioned above:

Tutors are available from 3-4pm

Until next time, happy reading!

Alison Sladen

Teacher Librarian

Sport Update

SCS Representative Sport Update

Last week the Sydney Catholic Schools Competition for Term 4 commenced, with Bethany teams facing Marist Penshurst for Round 1.

Junior Oztag -  defeated 7-1

Intermediate Oztag - won 8-1

Senior Oztag - defeated 5-3

Congratulations to Lilly, Ceanna and Ella for being awarded the Players’ Player medal. A particular thank you to Ella for filling in for the Senior team due to the majority of their team being away for the National Oztag Tournament.

Junior Volleyball - defeated 2-1

Intermediate Volleyball - defeated 2-1

Senior Volleyball - defeated 2-0

Congratulations to Stefi, Sheena and Emma for being awarded the Players’ Player medal.

In Round 2, our teams played against St Ursula’s Kingsgrove with the following results:

Junior Oztag won 16-1

Intermediate Oztag - 18-0

Senior Oztag won 15-0

Congratulations to Sophie, Lucy and Nadia for being awarded the Players’ Player medal.

Junior Volleyball - won 2-0

Intermediate Volleyball - won 2-1

Senior Volleyball defeated 2-0

Congratulations to Chloe, Annabel and Rebecca for being awarded the Players’ Player medal.

Rachel Bevan

Sport Coordinator

Careers News

UAC

 UOW College Nursing Information Session

6 November

Thinking about a career in Nursing?

Are you considering studying the HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing, have you applied, or already have an offer and still need answers? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered.

Please join us for our upcoming online info session to find out how to become an enrolled nurse or progress onto the Bachelor of Nursing at UOW in just 18 months.

Staff and a previous UOW College Diploma of Nursing student will be available on the night to answer any questions you may have.

University of Wollongong Liverpool - Early Admissions Closing Soon

Apply by 1 November

Early Admission is UOW’s early entry program for students completing Year 12 (Higher School Certificate or other Australian equivalents) in 2024. When you apply for Early Admission, UOW considers your unique skills and experiences, alongside your Year 11 results, so you can earn an offer to uni before you sit your final exams. Applications are now open for Early Admission to UOW Liverpool. Apply for up to two degrees listed at UOW Liverpool campus. Existing UOW Early Admission applicants and offer holders are eligible to re-apply specifically for UOW Liverpool.

Macquarie University and InspirEd Free Kickstart Seminar

3 November

This is a free day of HSC sessions designed to help students get ahead in their studies. This is for students entering Year 11 and Year 12 in 2025, and their parents to learn all about:

• How to manage stress during the year
• Secrets to HSC success
• Understanding the ATAR
• English tips and tricks
• Strategies for parents: communication & emotional support

Choosing Psychology at Macquarie

Macquarie is recognised for its excellence in teaching and research in the field of psychology and is a popular choice for many students interested in this area of study.

University of Sydney Webinar - Discover the journey to university

13 November

Follow a high schooler’s steps to uni – explore the crucial decisions, gain an inside look at what drives your aspirations, discover the support available, and gather the practical insights you need to navigate the road to university. This webinar offers:

• A personal insight into the transition from high school to university.
• Realistic guidance to navigate through various university options.
• Valuable resources and networks to support your journey

University of Sydney Webinar - Building your future: Architecture and the Built Environment

13 November

Are you interested in studying architecture and the built environment? In this webinar, we will explore how studying at the Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning can help you build transferable skills to pursue a variety of careers across architecture, urban planning and design, sustainability consulting,construction and property. Join us to find out about possible career paths you can take in this dynamic field.

Discover Nursing at UTS

20 November

Discover how you can become a Registered Nurse at Australia’s #1 uni for academic reputation in nursing and midwifery*.

Hear about diverse nursing careers from industry speakers, meet our academic teachers & ask current students about the UTS Bachelor of Nursing. Tour our world-class clinical facilities and explore your future campus!

UTS College - Know your options: HSC Parents info session

13 November

Wondering what to do if your child misses out on a UTS offer? Don’t worry. Know that they’ve got more options, like UTS College. We’re another way to UTS! Our first-year uni diplomas offer your child more support and more ways to boost their CV! Plus, they don’t need an ATAR or UTS offer, and they can complete their UTS studies, not lose any time and graduate with a diploma AND a degree.

Don’t wait until ATAR Day. Secure your child’s education future by joining us for the ‘Know Your Options’

ACU - Discover AI Magic with IT at ACU North Sydney

26 November

Participate in interactive academic-led artificial intelligence (AI) activities, chat with current students and learn what it’s like studying an information technology degree at ACU. Explore our campus, hear about international study opportunities and see what sets us apart.

This event is designed for high school students in Years 10 to 12, however anyone, including parents and caregivers, are most welcome to attend. Places are limited – be sure to register your attendance to guarantee your spot.

ACU - Discover Exercise and Sports Science at ACU Blacktown

27 November

Get your workout clothes on and discover the range of cutting-edge equipment for training and rehabilitation that you will have access to when studying sport and exercise science with ACU. Go behind the scenes at the state-of-the-art Blacktown Exercise Science and Technology Hub (BEST), chat to current staff and students, hear about international study opportunities, and see what sets us apart.

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.

ACU - Discover Law and Criminology at ACU North Sydney

28 November

All rise! Aspiring lawyers will have the chance to develop their analytical and courtroom skills in our law and criminology workshops. These hands-on activities will provide you with an insight into the Australian legal system and its functions. Visit our moot court, chat to current students, hear about international study opportunities and see what sets us apart. 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.

Notre Dame Pathways to Medicine Information Session

19 November

Considering a career in Medicine? Register to watch this information session exploring our undergraduate programs and exciting opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in Medicine.

UNSW Portfolio Entry Scheme - Round 2 Applications

Closes 18 November

Here at UNSW, we want to reward your passion, creativity and potential to succeed in your degree area.The UNSW Portfolio Entry Scheme offers early conditional offers, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your passion and talent alongside your ATAR. Successful applicants will receive an early conditional offer with an adjusted ATAR entry requirement up to 10 ATAR points below the lowest selection rank for a specific degree or range of related degrees.

UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture Portfolio Entry Workshop

12 November - Online

13 November - Paddington Campus

You’re so much more than an ATAR. With the UNSW Portfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme, your pathway into uni is unique - just like you. Here at UNSW, we want to reward your passion, creativity and potential to succeed in your degree area.

The scheme provides early conditional offers with an adjusted ATAR entry requirement that is up to 10points lower than the usual selection rank for a particular degree. This allows you to showcase your passion and talent in addition to your ATAR score.

Join us to hear from UNSW staff and academics about submitting an outstanding portfolio for a range of degrees across the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture for 2025.

In these interactive sessions we will provide tips and examples on what you need to submit and how to apply. There will also be an opportunity to get all your questions answered. This info session is for students (and parents/guardians) who are completing their HSC in 2024 and are considering their options for university next year.

For the Online Session, visit: https://www.events.unsw.edu.au/event/unsw-portfolio-entry-info-evening

UNSW TAFE Pathways Information Evening

14 November

Want to know how much credit you can receive for your TAFE studies in a relevant degree at UNSW? Join us at the UNSW TAFE Pathways Information Session at 5pm, Thursday 14th November and learn about your pathway options from TAFE to UNSW! As part of our TAFE Pathways Program, you could receive credit for your Diploma or Advanced Diploma and finish your degree in a shorter amount of time.

UNSW Year 10 and 11 High-Performance Architecture Roadshow

15 November

Ideal for students interested in architecture, the built environment or sustainability. Attendees will partake in hands-on activities and learn about cutting-edge research on urban heat mitigation and net zero in the built environment. This event is hosted at Civic Gallery, PHIVE, Parramatta.

UNSW Indigenous Admissions Scheme - Closing Soon

Applications Close 15 November

The UNSW Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS) is an interview-based entry pathway providing Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples entry into a UNSW undergraduate degree (excluding degrees offered under our Indigenous Pre-Programs). It is not ATAR dependent, meaning students do not need an ATAR to be considered.

The Indigenous Admissions Scheme is an entry pathway for undergraduate degrees that fall under the following areas of study:

• Arts, Design and Architecture (excluding Social Work and Education) 
• Health (excluding Medicine)
• Criminology & Criminal Justice
• Australian Defence Force Academy

Macquarie University and InspirEd Free Kickstart Seminar

3 November

This is a free day of HSC sessions designed to help students get ahead in their studies. This is for students entering Year 11 and Year 12 in 2025, and their parents to learn all about:

• How to manage stress during the year
• Secrets to HSC success
• Understanding the ATAR
• English tips and tricks
• Strategies for parents: communication & emotional support

TAFE

TAFE NSW Start SBAT conversations now!

School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT) are more than just part time jobs. They are a great way for students to set themselves up for the career they want, while still completing their HSC. Now is the time to explore SBAT options.

Private Colleges

Study Business, Design, Tourism and Hospitality at Australian Pacific College (APC)

Australian Pacific College offers a wide range of vocational courses from Certificate II level up to Advanced Diplomas in a variety of disciplines as well as a post-graduate qualification, giving you direct pathways to university. Supported by the use of modern technology with 25 years of experience in the education industry, APC provides ample opportunities for you to excel and reach your goals. 

On successful completion of your APC qualification, you can continue your studies at university with guaranteed credit in a related degree program. APC has articulation agreements in place with 10+ universities and higher education providers.

https://www.apc.edu.au/courses/

Apply Now to Study Abroad with SP Jain

Degrees in Business Administration, Business Communication, Economics and Data Science. Study inMumbai, Singapore, Dubai and Sydney!

Apply to the Sydney Film School for January 2025

Hollywood based Variety Magazine has awarded Sydney Film School its top film schools for 2020 accolade. Sydney Film School was founded to teach the essential filmmaking tools necessary for a successful career in the global industry. Apply to find your vision.

Sydney Design School Info Session

6 & 26 November 2024

Our sessions are also streamed live online via Zoom. Register below to receive a link closer to the date of your Info Session. 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.

AIE Open Day

16 November

Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, 3D animation, film and visual effects at the AIE Open Day on Sun 11 August 2024. This event will be held at AIE Campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Adelaide from 10am to 3pm. AIE’s Open Day is a great opportunity to meet our teachers, staff and students. The day will cover everything you need to know about the:

• careers in games and VFX that we train students for;
• studios and industries that we work with;
• courses we offer - from beginners to professional mastery, and;
• the software, skills and knowledge we teach.

AIE’s Open Day will also include presentations on entry requirements and how to apply. Find out how AIE can get you into a creative career.

International College of Management ICMS Parents’ Information Evening

21 November

Learn about the UAC preference process, get a summary of key dates and entry requirements, find out about FEE-HELP and High Academic Places and other tuition fee-related options. Hear from a Dean who will explain the Authentic, Industry-Driven, Assessment-based Teaching methods at ICMS. Find out about industry placement, hear from current students and faculty academics.

ACAP Online Information Session - Psychology

19 November

Can you imagine yourself in a fascinating research role, contributing to mental health services or as a specialist in private practice? These are just a few career options you have with a qualification in Psychology. In this real-time online information session Professor John Reece will share insights into studying Psychology at ACAP and ultimately provide you with information on courses you could study, and delve into the scientific research of individuals, society and culture.

This session will be held on Tuesday 19 November at 7pm (AEDT).

ACAP Online Information Session - Social Work

20 November

Can you imagine yourself making a difference in a not-for-profit organisation, or working in the criminal justice system, or the government? These are just a few career options you have with a qualification in Social Work. In this real-time online information session Professor Annie Venville will share insights into studying Social Work at ACAP and provide details of courses you could take to help others develop better self-awareness for a more positive path in life.

ACAP Online Information Session - Criminology

21 November

Can you imagine yourself working in investigations, intelligence, or even corporate crime? These are just a few career options you have with a qualification in Criminology. In this real-time online information session Matthew Thurgood will share insights into studying Criminology at ACAP and ultimately provide insights into what courses you could take to gain skills, influence positive change and develop practical responses that can have a positive impact on criminal justice issues.

AIT Info Night

26 November (Academy of Interactive Technology)

You’ll hear from our inspiring Academic Director and meet our very talented current students talk about what it’s like to study at AIT. You will have the opportunity to speak to our friendly course advisor crew one-on-one and learn about the flexible learning options and pathways available, career outcomes, and more. You’ll get to meet the Admissions Team to discuss the admissions process or even better - Apply on the spot to save your seat in the next Intake!

SAE Info Night

27 November

Want to embrace the latest technologies and engineer the impossible?  Join us in Sydney for this exclusive event to discover SAE’s new technology courses in VFX Virtual Production and Computer Science!  Specially designed in consultation with industry experts from Technicolor and Ubisoft, our VFX courses will nurture your creativity and empower you to experiment, while our Computer Science programs have been developed to prepare you for the collaborative and geographically diverse world of technology and creative media.

Register for the next ACPE Experience Day

Next Date: 19 December

Tour our state-of-the-art facilities, interact with our passionate students and experienced lecturers and participate in informative sessions and hands-on workshops. Want to pursue a career in sport? Discover why ACPE is ranked #1 for Health, Sport, Physical Education, and Dance. Join us on campus. See where you will study, meet our students and lecturers, and participate in info sessions and practical workshops to take the next step with confidence.

We’ll have a number of sessions running throughout the day so you can decide on how you would like to enjoy your Experience Day! See below for details on the workshop and speaker bios.

AMPA Dance Experience Day

13 November

Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) invites dancers to join us on campus for a day of dance.Register and bring your friends along and get ready to move! Dancers will have a chance to participate in contemporary &  improvisation classes facilitated by AMPA’s inspiring faculty and experience what studying dance full-time is like at AMPA. A Q&A with the program’s Head of Dance will allow aspiring dancers, choreographers, and dance teachers, to gain further insight into tertiary education and how it can benefit their future careers.

AMPA is the only performance-focused dance degree in NSW, so if you value a practical approach to learning and love performing- this is the place for you!

AMPA Experience Day - Music Theatre and Classical Performance & Composition

13 November

Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) invites aspiring Music Theatre and Classical musicians and Composers aged 16 and over to join us on campus for a day of music! Attendees will have the chance to sit in on a performance class, participate in workshops/Q&As facilitated by AMPA’s music faculty and experience what studying music is like at AMPA. Experience a day in the life of an AMPA music student to gain further insight into tertiary education and how it can benefit your future. Parents also welcome to attend.

Enter the World of Le Cordon Bleu Careers Residential

26 - 27 November

Registration Now Open!

Le Cordon Bleu Sydney is offering 16 lucky students the chance to enter the world of Le Cordon Bleu in a two-day residential! We’re opening our doors to high school students in Years 11 & 12, to experience a day in the life at one of the world’s leading culinary and hospitality institutions. The two-day residential will provide students with a taste of what a career in hospitality looks like.

Meet lecturers and Le Cordon Bleu professionals, hear from industry experts, discover what Le Cordon Bleu hospitality management degree programmes involve and experience hands-on culinary classes with our chefs.

There are only 16 places available, so get in quick!

Higher apprenticeships: Not just for trades

When people hear the word “apprenticeship,” they often think of trades like plumbing, carpentry, or electrical work. But higher and degree apprenticeships are changing that perception, offering opportunities in a wide range of industries, from healthcare to IT. These programs combine work experience with formal education, allowing you to earn qualifications that can range from diplomas to full degrees while gaining practical skills in the workplace.

Let’s explore what makes higher and degree apprenticeships unique and how they can help you jump-start your career.

 What are higher apprenticeships?

Higher apprenticeships are structured learning programs that combine part-time work with part-time study, allowing you to immediately apply what you learn in the classroom to your role in the workplace. Think of them as an advanced version of the traditional trade apprenticeship, but instead of learning a hands-on trade like plumbing or carpentry, you’re acquiring skills in professional fields such as IT, finance, business, and even healthcare.

What makes higher apprenticeships so appealing is the blend of real-world experience and academic learning. You’re not just sitting in a lecture hall or classroom—you’re out in the field, building practical skills and making connections in your chosen industry. By the time you finish, you’ll have earned a qualification (such as a diploma or bachelor’s degree), gained significant work experience, and likely developed a network of industry contacts.

Here’s how you can boost your resume with a short course

When you’re just starting out on your career journey, having qualifications on your resume can make all the difference. Short courses are a great way to add valuable skills and certifications to your resume without needing to commit to a full degree or diploma. They show employers that you’re proactive, willing to learn, and capable of applying your skills in real-world situations. Whether you’re looking for a part-time job, a career boost, or just want to expand your knowledge, short courses can help set you apart from the crowd.

Employers value skills that are practical and relevant, and short courses are a way to demonstrate that you have both. From First Aid to digital literacy, these qualifications not only give you knowledge but also offer you formal certifications that make you more employable. 

How a gap year can supercharge your resume and life skills

For many students, the final year of high school can feel like a race to the finish line, with university or career plans immediately on the horizon. However, it’s OK to take a step back and take a gap year too – in fact, it could be one of the most impactful choices you make. Far from being “time off,” a gap year is a chance to gain valuable experiences, skills, and insights that can set you up for future success. Here’s how taking a gap year can help supercharge your resume and life skills, making you stand out in both the professional world and beyond.

Melanie Bullock

Careers Advisor

From the College Counsellor

The NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors STARTTS is a specialist, not-for-profit organisation that was established in 1988. It provides culturally relevant psychological treatment and support, and community interventions, to help people and communities heal the scars of torture and refugee trauma and rebuild their lives in Australia.

The School Liaison Team at STARTTS have created a list of important resources for individuals and families that may benefit from their services. Please see below.

• Witness to War – A free national multilingual telephone hotline for people living in
  Australia who are affected by overseas conflicts. Free call 1800 845 198. Arabic-
  speaking Bicultural Client Support Workers are available to take calls.
• Counselling at STARTTS – STARTTS services are for people of all ages who have
  survived torture and/or trauma and are refugees, asylum seekers or from refugee-like
  backgrounds (including being impacted by intergenerational refugee-related trauma)
• STARTTS has produced an Arabic language video about our clients’ experiences of
  getting counselling at STARTTS
• Hints for Healing has produced an Arabic/English article and podcast for parents on how
  they can promote the wellbeing of their children in times of crisis.
• Hints for Healing has produced a Briefing Sheet for Educators on how schools can best
  support students during an international crisis.

Dimity 

College Counsellor