Term 4 - Week 8

A Message from the Principal

Dear Parents, Carers and Friends of Bethany,

This week I have read every student’s report from Years 7 - 10. This is something that I like to take my time in as I look for students deserving of Principal’s Awards for consistency or growth. I also immerse myself in what has been taught in each subject and the effort of each student. Next week as you book your appointments for parent teacher interviews and as you read your daughter’s report, I ask you to consider the following:

• Grades - are awarded as per the description at the front of the report. These highlight the extent to which your daughter understands the set work. They are not based only on assessment tasks but on the whole of the semester. Teachers can gauge through questioning, informal tasks, discussions and group work at what level your daughter understands the work covered in each class.
• Personal Profile - This area is important as this is not about ability but effort. A personal profile speaks of engagement in class, of organisation and participation levels. Every student should aim to have ticks in the consistently column for every subject here.
• Attendance - Whether attendance is explained or not, every second of every lesson matters. If your daughter has listed 10 days of absence, this equates to 1 day absent every fortnight of the semester. If we transfer this to a workplace situation, would any parent be happy with a coworker being absent this much? The same can be said of partial attendances which speaks of punctuality in most cases. Of course some attendance has been to approved leave for travel and some to chronic illness or a sickness that was unexpected, the above comments do not refer to these situations.

Before reports are released, ask your daughter how she thinks she has achieved in each subject, ask her to write down what grade she thinks she will get. Review the Semester 1 report and ask your daughter to tick where the personal profile will be for Semester 2. This exercise is worthwhile as it provides your daughter with reflection time and if there are any surprises when reports are released, this could be a basis for discussion with teachers during the interview times in Week 10.

Parent Teacher interviews mostly provide a time of affirmation for your daughter in a one on one atmosphere. They also provide strategies to work on for next year. At times some parents may think that it is the end of the year and so they may not bother to attend interviews. I ask parents to book in for interviews to allow your daughter to be the centre of attention with you and her teacher. Common things may be said across teachers and if this is the case, your daughter consistently displays these traits. If such traits such as “ she gets distracted easily” are spoken of, then this can form part of an area to improve upon. Gone are the days when interviews are times for students to get into trouble. If there is an area that is news to you as a parent and it is not pleasing, consider asking your daughter why she did not let you know about this. It is my hope that reports and interviews offer good feedback always with emphasis on this is what your daughter can do as well as and now here is what she can do to further improve. We want each girl to be honest in their learning and if grades or efforts are not pleasing, put this behind them with a genuine attempt to improve next time. Every day in every class, students can focus on improving.

I look forward to seeing many parents at our Academic Awards ceremony next Friday as I farewell the community for the final time as College Principal. Please keep Year 12 in your prayers as we look forward to HSC results being released on December 18.

Robyn Rodwell

College Principal

From the Assistant Principal

As the end of the year draws to a close, I wanted to write to you to outline our plan for the final weeks of the school year. 

Normal timetabled classes will run for most students next week (December 9th-December 12th). Year 10 will finish their usual lessons on Tuesday December 6th and move into an alternative program for the remainder of the school year. On Thursday December 12th, there will be a rehearsal for students involved in the Awards Assembly. Students will be asked to ensure their lockers are emptied by the end of the day. 

Our Awards Assembly is being held on Friday December 13th. The day will begin with mass to close the school year. Students will then have a break for recess before we begin our Awards Assembly. Assembly will begin at 11.30 and parents / carers who are attending, are asked to be seated by 11.15am. Assembly is planned to finish by 1.30pm at which time students will be dismissed from school. 

Buses have been arranged to transport those students who usually catch the bus from Forest Rd to Rockdale and from Croydon Rd to Hurstville. A bus to Ramsgate (947) has also been arranged. This will pick students up from Croydon Rd instead of Lily St. 

Parent / Student / Teacher interviews are being held on Monday December 16th from 8.30am-4.00pm (in person) and Tuesday December 17th from 8.30am-4.00pm (Zoom). A letter has been sent to parents outlining the details for these interviews and how to book an interview with your daughter’s teachers online. These interviews will bring 2024 to a close for the Bethany students. HSC results and ATARs are released on Wednesday December 18th and we have asked our Year 12 students back to the College to celebrate and reflect upon their results. Thursday December 19th is a pupil free day. 

Detailed communication about the start of the 2025 school year will be sent in January. For your forward planning, our new students, including our Year 7 cohort, will start with us on Tuesday 4th of February. If your daughter is in Year 10 and part of the Big Sister Program, she will be asked to also attend school on this day.

Students in Years 8-12 will return in staggered times on Wednesday 5th of February. Students in Years 10 and 12 will be onsite from 8.45am-12.30pm. Students in Years 8, 9 and 11 will be onsite from 11.00am-3.00pm. Year 7 students are in attendance all day. This day will be focused on getting organised for the start of the school year. Again, buses have been arranged for students who are departing at 12.30pm and for those leaving at 3.00pm. Classes will start on Thursday 6th February.

Important Dates 

Kristina Flanagan

Assistant Principal

Religious Education

Year 7 Spirituality Day

The Year 7 Spirituality Day, facilitated by the Youth Ministry Team, was an enriching experience centered on the theme of Relationships and their connection to Jesus as the Good Shepherd. Through a series of interactive activities and discussions, students explored the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships in their lives, guided by the example of Christ's unwavering care and love for His flock. The day provided opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of how their faith can be a source of strength and guidance in building connections with others.

Students participated enthusiastically, bringing their energy, curiosity, and openness to every part of the program. Their willingness to engage wholeheartedly demonstrated their appreciation of the themes and the importance of spirituality in their lives. Special thanks go to Ms. Touma and Miss Jones for their exceptional organisation of the day, ensuring its success and creating an environment where students felt supported and inspired. The Year 7 Spirituality Day was a memorable experience that encouraged personal growth, deepened faith, and strengthened the sense of community.

Vinnies Christmas Appeal

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful Bethany College community for your generous contributions to the Vinnies Christmas Appeal. Your support makes a profound difference, especially in light of new research conducted by YouGov for the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, which reveals the challenges many Australians face this festive season. With 68% worried about the financial strain of holiday expenses, 58% concerned about affording food and essentials, and 62% stressed about buying gifts for loved ones, your generosity shines as a beacon of hope. Through your donations, we are living out the spirit of compassion and kindness, helping ease the burdens of those in need and ensuring that more families can experience the joy and dignity of Christmas. Thank you for being such a caring and supportive community. Thank you to Miss Jones for the collection operation and dedication to social justice.

Sara Camporeale

Leader of Religious Education and Mission

Wellbeing News

Year 7 Wellbeing day

During our first Year 7 Wellbeing Day, we spent the day together learning,  meeting new people and focusing on our year goal of relationships. Our symbol is a sheperd and to begin with we got into small groups, and discussed what we think a sheperd means to us,  which got all of us thinking and talking to new people in our year group that we have not met before. A guest speaker delivered a presentation called  'Climbing out and breaking free'. As a cohort we learnt about bullying, how to stand up for yourself and others, which was a very interesting,  proactive and engaging session. After that we got together with our Year 10 Big Sisters to review the year. At the end of the day, we got into small groups, and everyone participated in an Amazing Race activity. We ran around the school looking for clues and doing challenges, to get the next clue after clue and find word after word. And by the end of it all, a winning team was determined and that was a group from year 7 PC blue  that won a box of chocolates. Our first Year 7 Wellbeing Day was a great experience as we had lots of fun and learnt a lot at the same time. We thank all the teachers who organized it all.

By Stefania Kotevich and Ashley Cabot on behalf of the Year 7 cohort.

International day of the girl is celebrated globally on October 11. As this was in the Spring school holidays, Bethany acknowledged this day in Week 3 of this term. The International Day of the Girl Child focuses attention on the need to address the challenges girls face and to promote girls’ empowerment and the fulfilment of their human rights. Students viewed material in pastoral classes where they learnt about the history of the day, as well as viewing videos and news articles from around the world, highlighting the status of girls in different countries and situations. Each student was asked to write what the day meant to them, a piece of advice to other girls or a statement of gratitude for the significant women in their lives. Below are some of these quotes and the display outside the library.

Attendance Matters

Please read below an important message from SCS regarding a change in the way that attendance is logged and the implications for student attendance registers. Please contact the College if you have questions about the new procedure.

In 2024, we have had a significant focus on school attendance this year, reiterating to our community that presence at school each and every day, and for the whole part of the day, matters crucially to a student's learning and academic success, sense of belonging, connection, mental health, personal growth and positive future outcomes.

The percentage attendance for each year group in 2024 is displayed below, pleasingly there has been an increase of approximately 1% compared to last year. Whilst a small increase, this is in the right direction and hopefully the attendance will continue to grow in 2025. Similarly there has been a slight decrease in the number of partial days for students (leaving early or arriving late). The best outcomes for students are achieved when they are at school every day possible (exempting sickness).

Smartphone and device safety

This is a link to an excellent webinar for students, parents and teachers made by the Australian government (esafety) and featuring Dr Alan Ibbett (Head of information technology, Catholic Education network). The video discusses sharing of data, privacy and protecting your children from smartphone’s leakage of security sensitive information - it is certainly worth watching, especially with the current public discourse on social media usage for children and adolescents.

Resources for parents

 This link will take parents to a list of and contact information for agencies expert in the areas of mental health, sleeping, eating, physical health and general development.

The last of the Elevate webinar series will be held on December 11 (How you can set your child up for success) - see below for more information and registration details.

Charlotte Buxton

Leader of Wellbeing

Teaching and Learning News

Minimum Standards Tests Year 10 

The results for these tests are now available for students that have sat the tests and most students have reached the minimum standard required.Those that have not yet met the standard will be contacted by Mr Paff to arrange a time to resit their tests. 

If your daughter was absent for these tests or did not reach the minimum standard there will be opportunities for her to complete these in the new year. There will be multiple opportunities throughout Year 11 and if needed Year 12, to complete these tests. The school also provides a variety of support measures to assist our students to meet this mandatory HSC requirement. If they need help or have any questions in regards to these tests your daughter should speak to Mr Paff, Leader of Data and Growth.

All My Own Work (AMOW) - Reminder

During Week 9 of this term Yr10 students will complete the AMOW program. This is an initiative designed to prepare our students for the Higher School Certificate (HSC). This program aims to instil the values of academic integrity and ethical scholarship in our students to avoid malpractice when students prepare their work. Students will need to bring their laptop on this day and their charging cable.

The keys areas covered are:

• Understanding Academic Integrity: Students learn the importance of honesty and integrity in their academic work.
• Avoiding Plagiarism: The program educates students on how to properly acknowledge sources and avoid plagiarism.
• Research Skills: Students develop essential research skills, including how to find, evaluate, and use information effectively.
• Referencing Techniques: Guidance on various referencing styles to ensure students can correctly cite their sources.

To be eligible for entry into a Preliminary and/or Higher School Certificate (HSC) course, and for the award of the HSC, all students must complete AMOW or its equivalent. Completion of the All My Own Work program is mandatory for all students before they can submit any HSC assessment tasks. This program not only prepares them for their HSC but also equips them with skills that are valuable for lifelong learning and future academic pursuits.

We encourage you to discuss the importance of this program with your child and support them in their journey towards academic excellence. More information regarding AMOW can be found here.

Schoolwork During the Holidays: How to Balance Rest and Readiness

The holidays are the perfect opportunity to hit reset—relax, recharge, and enjoy yourself. But while rest is essential, it doesn’t mean you should completely ignore schoolwork. A bit of thoughtful planning can set you up for a smooth and successful return to school next year.

Here are some ideas to consider for the holidays.

TIDY UP AND SET GOALS

• Organise your space:
  Transform your study area into a productive environment. Declutter, rearrange, and make it a place where you feel comfortable and focused.
• Sort and simplify your materials:
  Go through your school supplies, digital files, and notes. Keep what’s essential, organise everything logically, and set up systems to make studying easier next year.
• Plan ahead:
• Create term planners for the upcoming year to mark key dates when school starts.
• Plan a weekly study timetable for next year to build good habits and stay on top of your workload.
• If you can, find out any of the novels you will studying in the coming year, read them over the holidays.
• Focus on weak spots:
  Identify tricky areas from last term, such as math concepts, grammar, foreign languages, or literacy skills, and dedicate some time to improving them. A little effort now can make a big difference later.

STRETCH AND GROW YOUR SKILLS

• Learn something new:
  Challenge your brain by picking up a new skill or activity. Whether it’s Sudoku, learning touch typing, starting a new sport, or trying out a new hobby, the holidays are a perfect time to push your boundaries and build new neural pathways.
• Explore study resources:
  Check out the Study Skills Handbook for tips on boosting your study habits, memory, or even your understanding of how your brain works. Start with the Your Brain and Memory unit for inspiration. Choose units to work on that will build your skills in areas of weakness.

SPECIFICALLY FOR SENIOR STUDENTS

It is important for senior students to stay focused on what’s ahead.

• Download and review syllabuses:
  Familiarise yourself with course materials for the upcoming year so you can hit the ground running.
• Tackle early assignments:
  If you have assignments due early in the term, plan to complete them during the holidays. Starting strong gives you breathing room for other priorities.
• Prepare for exams:
• Update your study notes and create summaries for major topics.
• If exams are early in the term, dedicate regular time to study sessions.
• For significant post-holiday exams, prioritise intensive preparation.

HOLIDAY TIPS FOR A HEALTHY BALANCE

• Set a Schedule:
  Block out specific times for schoolwork so you can enjoy guilt-free downtime.
• Prioritise Rest:
  Catch up on sleep, enjoy hobbies, and take breaks to recharge your mind.
• Stay Active:
  Physical activity, even a daily walk or stretch, can do wonders for your mental clarity.
• Reconnect:
  Spend quality time with family and friends to create meaningful memories.

Sarah Rowland                                                                              Cameron Paff     

Leader of Curriculum                                                                  Leader of Data & Growth

Year 11 Dance

Congratulations to our stunning Year 11 Dance class 'The Fire Dancers' who performed on Thursday the 28th of November, at Marist College Penshurst for the SCS Network Festival 'Made of Stars' evening Show. Our Dancers performed their HSC Core Performance Dance. They were absolutely exquisite ! Well Done.

Danielle Como

Dance Teacher

Newman Creative Writing Project Day 2024

On Friday the 29th November, the Year 10 Newman class had the pleasure of welcoming and mentoring visiting primary students in a writing workshop aimed at fostering the creative process through various prompts and learning opportunities. Our participants came from a range of our feeder primary schools and included representatives from Year 5 and 6. They overcame some nervousness in order to enjoy an exciting day, fostering their young minds and creativity, and forging connections with older students who, in turn, unlocked different ways of thinking and navigating storytelling. 

The participants put their newly learnt skills to the test to write a short narrative using a shared prompt - The Door - creating innovative stories and unique characters through vivid descriptions of this varied and wonderful door. The day culminated with a Writers’ Festival, where they shared these stories with pride. Students had stellar reviews of this fun workshop stating that; “I enjoyed learning different writing techniques”, “It was an eye opening experience for me to learn a greater appreciation for writing”, and that “It was fun writing my own story, I loved this experience a lot!”

Overall it was a chance for the Year 5 and 6s to explore the rigours of highschool and introduce themselves to transferable skills to set them up for coming years. In addition, Year 10 had the opportunity to rethink their own understanding of their writing skills and techniques, expressing how they enjoyed mentoring the young students and transferring their skills. “Hopefully they’ll take away something from my help,” one stated. 

Hunter Howesmith, Year 10 Newman class. 

Languages News

RECORDS SMASHED IN ACL ITALIAN COMPETITION!

A group of forty students from year 8 and seven students from year 10 accepted the
challenge of participating in the ACL Italian Competition. It’s classified as a challenge
because the students are presented with listening and reading sources that are not
solely based on the topics covered in their respective courses. A lot of interpreting
and detective skills are used in trying to uncover the correct answer – and they
definitely succeeded.

A total of 11 awards of Distinction and High Distinction were achieved in the Listening component and then a massive total of 27 Distinction awards and 11 High Distinction awards were earned in the Reading section. These results smashed the Australian National Average – gold medals all ‘round!
Congratulations to the following who stood high on the podium:
Anastasia Harapas, Catia Lombardi, Olivia Angelopoulos, Eloise Button, Angela Choi, Inez Dileo-Border, Laisa Gordon, Felicia Greco, Scarlett Hoang, Scarlett Horne, Emily Kolaroska, Maya Patel and Chloe Simmons.

CLARISSA HARTANTO – TAKING LANGUAGES TO THE NEXT LEVEL
Congratulations to Clarissa Hartanto (Year 11) who has been awarded the Korean Language Scholarship in Australia Korean Language Award (formerly know as Choon Pa Korean Language Scholarship Inc).

This award was established to recognise outstanding students enrolled in Korean Language who have achieved positive academic records in Korean Language studies.

The Bethany College community would like to congratulate Clarissa on the recognition of her hard work as a student of the NSW School of Languages.

Marco Gianni
Teacher-in-charge, Languages

Library News

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Our Christmas tree has been a wonderful addition to our beautiful library and has brought smiles to many staff and students. Students are invited to visit and share in our cheer!

Book Club Christmas Craft

Last week, students in Book Club enjoyed making a book ornament to add to their Christmas tree at home. A lot of fun was had by all!

2024 Summer Reading Challenge

Our popular Summer Reading Challenge has begun and will run until next week. We have had a fantastic response! Students who borrow for the holidays will receive a raffle ticket, going into the draw to win a $20 QBD voucher. The winner will be announced next week. All students borrowing during this time will receive an extended loan period that gives them until our return in 2025 to return the book. Good luck to all!

Behind the Bookmarks: The Literary Lives of Teachers

Ms Mandi Brooker

“As long as people keep reading…Social media has closed us down and put us in our little echo chambers. The thing that will get us out, is books, isn’t it?”

Can you please tell us about the role you have here at Bethany?
I'm a Maths teacher first and I'm the Maths Coordinator next

How would you describe yourself as a reader?
I read everything. I do prefer non-fiction - a lot of science, history - pretty much everything.

How frequently would you read per day?
Definitely daily, every evening before I go to sleep. In the day, I usually read a science magazine rather than a book. In the evenings I’ll read a book.

What formats do you prefer and why?
Definitely physical. I tried Kindle for a very long time and I couldn't come to terms with it. I found I can't lose myself in a book if it's electronic in the same way as I can with paper. It’s probably because it’s the way I've read forever and ever and ever. But it is convenient having Kindle for something like traveling because then you can take 17 different books and not have the weight.

Why do you believe reading is important for students?
It opens the world to them. Being exposed to more sophisticated ways of putting sentences together and vocabulary are important. But I also think that whether it's a novel or it's non-fiction, whatever it is - you get stuff out of books that you simply don't get any other way. Especially novels - there is no equivalent to reading a novel. I think the closest would be to watching a movie, but I don't think it's the same because when watching a movie, so much of it is done for you. Whereas when you are reading a book you've got to make up your mind. That's why often going to see the movie of a book that you love is often a little disappointing - the people look wrong or they are left out. I think particularly for people from minorities it is super important. I think the movie industry is just getting on top of addressing minorities as characters and I think you still tend to have your minority people as the subsidiary characters.

What genres do you enjoy reading the most, and what draws you to them?
I read a lot of non-fiction, that's what I enjoy the most, but I also read good old-fashioned whodunnits. All the famous P.D.James onwards and all those people and tend to be my real escapist reading.

So what draws you to them? Is it the escapism element?
I think so. I have to say with those books I often close the book and think, ‘Gosh that was a great book’ but I couldn’t recount the plot because it’s gone in one ear and out the other. While I’ve been reading it I’ve been engrossed in it, so it's a different level of reading. An element for me is solving the puzzle, who actually did do it? But then when I'm reading non-fiction, I think the big thing is I'm learning new things.

Do you read any non-fiction in your subject area?
Yes I do. I tend to find that if I'm reading something about mathematics, I tend to be reading it with one-half of my brain thinking can I use this in class? So it is a different style of reading.

What’s the last book you read and what did you think of it?
I read a very interesting history called ‘The Book of Roads and Kingdoms’ by Richard Fidler. I brought along a book I am currently reading ‘The World According to Colour - A Cultural History’. It was sent to me by a friend. It is an absolutely fascinating read, he takes every colour and covers the cultural significance of each. I just finished ‘The Kindness Revolution’, recommended by Luke Tobin on our staff spirituality day. It is fantastic! Very readable.

How do you feel when you finish a good book?
Books can stay with me for days. It’s always a bit sad because you want to be back in there and I do find myself revisiting it for days afterwards. The whole point of reading is that it makes you see the world differently. The purpose of a good book is to change us. It opens you up to experiences you may never have. Particularly for young people, it is important to have that opportunity to see how somebody else deals with issues. I don’t think I read much non-fiction as a teenager and I think that's maybe because you are trying to find out who you are in the world. I was really lucky because I went to a school that had a brilliant English teacher who gave us an enormous reading list. I think each year we were required to read 20 or 30 books for class. She knew once we had read them, she could refer to them in her teaching. I went to school in South Africa and for us, it was really interesting. A lot of authors were the then very contemporary black African writers and it was so interesting to see what they were writing when South Africa was at the end of the Apartheid - that’s why I say it gives you that perspective.

Thanks so much to Ms Brooker for sharing her thoughts about reading and what it means to her. There are many takeaways for us regarding why it’s just so beneficial to incorporate more reading into our lives.

Georges River Libraries - 2024 Summer Reading Challenge

Please see below for information on the Georges River Council’s 2024 Summer Reading Challenge

Children and young people aged 16 and under are invited to make a splash this summer and have a whale of a time reading in the Georges River Libraries 2024-2025 Summer Reading Challenge! Simply register through Beanstack, log your reading, and collect rewards and entries to the grand prize as you read.

About Beanstack:
Beanstack is an online platform that helps people reach their reading goals by tracking when, how much, and what they read. Gamification features like badges, reading streaks, and achievements motivate readers while having fun.

Create a Beanstack account via the web or download the app and join the Georges River Libraries Summer Reading Challenge.

Show your online registration to library staff at any of our branches and receive a limited-edition Summer Reading Challenge sticker, just for signing up! Then collect a small prize for every 20 books individual titles you read during the challenge dates. For every 20 different books read you will also receive an entry into our major prize draw, where you have a chance to win prizes up to the value of $100.

Alternatively, you can download a log book here. Submit your completed reading log to library@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au with the subject line Summer Reading Challenge, or drop it in to any branch before the challenge finishes.

Summer Reading Challenge participants will also be invited to attend a presentation evening in February 2025. Winners of the major prize draws will be announced on the night.

Ages: 0–16 years

Dates: Sunday 1 December 2024 - Friday 31 January 2025

View all Terms and Conditions here.

For enquires please call 9330 6111 to speak to the Children and Youth Services Team or email library@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au

Until next time, happy reading!

Alison Sladen

Librarian

Visual Arts News

Year 7 Visual Arts Mixed Media Artworks

Drawing inspiration from contemporary Australian artist Howard Arkley, Year 7 students created mixed media artworks that explore drawing and collage techniques. Their imaginative approach has resulted in vibrant representations of suburban interiors. Great job, Year 7 artists!

Year 7 Visual Arts Monochromatic Pop Paintings

This term, Year 7 Art students have worked diligently on creating monochromatic paintings of celebrities. They applied their understanding of tone and honed their technical painting skills to produce impressive portraits of pop culture icons. Well done to all the Year 7 artists!

Year 8 Self-Portrait Drawings

This term, Year 8 Art students have diligently applied their drawing skills and shading techniques to create impressive self-portrait drawings. These artworks are a testament to their dedication and perseverance. Congratulations to all Year 8 Art students!

Years 9 & 10 Pen and Ink Drawings

This term, the talented Year 9 and 10 artists picked up their pens to create drawings that seamlessly incorporated organic and geometric elements. The students showcased their creativity through innovative designs and demonstrated diligence in their pen work. Fantastic job, Stage 5 Visual Arts students!

Freya Wooby

Visual Arts Teacher

Inquisitive Minds Maths Incursion

On Monday, 2nd, the Inquisitive Minds team visited Bethany for a full-day problem-solving workshop with our Year 8 and 9 Newman Maths classes. Despite spending the entire day tackling mathematical challenges, the girls had an enjoyable experience and gained valuable insights into problem-solving strategies and the importance of teamwork.

The team returned on Tuesday, 3rd, to conduct a more focused workshop with each Year 7 Maths class. Once again, the students had a fantastic day, including those who may not typically enjoy Maths.

The Inquisitive Minds team commented on two things which made us very proud of our girls: that they showed great resilience when faced with challenging problems, and that they were supportive of and kind to one another.

Mandi Brooker

Mathematics Coordinator

Sport Update

In Round 7 our teams played against St Aloysius with the following results:

Junior Oztag defeated 5-1

Intermediate Oztag - BYE

Senior Oztag won 10-0

Junior Volleyball - won 2-1

Intermediate Volleyball - BYE

Senior Volleyball BYE

This round was the end of the round games. Congratulations to our Intermediate Oztag and Volleyball, and our Senior Oztag team on progressing to the Conference Semi Finals.

Intermediate Volleyball Semi Final Vs Bosco - Bethany lost in 2 sets (19/21, 13/21)

Intermediate Oztag Semi Final Vs OLMC - Bethany won on forfeit

Senior Oztag Semi Final Vs Aquinas - Bethany won 7-4

Intermediate Oztag Grand Final Vs Bosco - Bethany lost 7-6

Senior Oztag Grand Final Vs Bosco - Bethany won 7-4

Congratulations to the following students who have been awarded Players’ Player over the last two rounds:

Staff Vs Year 12

The Staff vs Year 12 Netball Game was much-anticipated and it didn’t disappoint! The teachers hit the court with confidence, showing off their skill, strategy, and teamwork led by the highly driven Year 12 Coordinator Mrs Bullock. The staff completely dominated, taking home a well-deserved win.

While the Year 12s didn’t quite get the result they wanted, they brought plenty of energy, spirit, and sportsmanship to the game, making it an exciting and fun match for everyone who came to cheer them on.

Pacifika Nations Cup

Congratulations to Yara Jasmine Astorga in Year 9 who represented the Koori Girls U16 team over the weekend from Friday 30/11 - Sunday 02/12 at the Pacifika Nations Cup.

This was more than just the usual representative rugby tournament, it was a culture which Yara was able to experience with her family and teammates.

Rachel Bevan

Sport Coordinator

School Photos 2025

School photos in 2025 will be held on two dates;

• Friday 7th February - Years 7, 9 & 12 (including Year 12 big group photo & sibling photos)
• Monday 3rd March - Years 8, 10 & 11

Please ensure you follow the instructions below to order your photos prior to the day.

School photography information:

• Online orders - do not require an envelope returned to your school
• Sibling Photos - Don’t forget to pre-order your sibling photos online up to 24 hours before photo day. We provide your school with a list of sibling orders right up to the day of photography, so no one misses out. If you miss the online order deadline, you can submit a completed sibling order envelope first thing in the morning of the day of photography, so your school is aware you want the photo taken and can bring your children together in time for it. Sibling photographs only apply to children enrolled at your school.
• Late fees - a late fee will be applied to each package purchased after photo day due to the additional cost of producing these packages separately
• Package delivery - School photographs will be returned approximately 6 weeks after the day of photography. Please note this delivery timeframe is dependent on proofing and additional photography days at your school.
• Previous Years’ photos - Past years’ photographs including sports, co-curricular and representative groups are also available to order under the “previous years or group photo” tabs at your school’s advancedorder site when you click on the “Order School Photos Here” button above. You can also order past packages, portrait images and gifts from your child’s unique, individual and secure advancedyou image archive site using the unique 9 digit image code found on packages you have ordered in the past.

Advancedlife would like to express our appreciation to Bethany College for placing your trust in us. Please remember we offer a 100% money back guarantee on our products to ensure your peace of mind. We would also love to receive your feedback or resolve any issues you may experience as fast as possible, to ensure your satisfaction. If you have any questions, comments or feedback relating to your advancedlife experience please contact us at: www.advancedlife.com.au/contact

Michelle Barrass

Leader of Teaching Administration

Careers News

UAC

UAC Digital: How to review your UAC application following your ATAR result

17 December

Demystify the impact of your ATAR on your uni application. Whether you’re fine-tuning your coursepreferences or contemplating your next steps if you receive an offer, this session is your roadmap tosuccess.

UAC Dates - December

5 December - January Round 1 Application Deadline

5 December - December Round 1 Offers Released

18 December - ATARs Released

18 December - Deadline to change preferences for December Round 2

23 December - December Round 2 Offers Released

23 December - SRS Conditional offers converted to unconditional offers

UAC ATAR Estimator

ATAR Compass estimates your ATAR using scaling statistics from the past five years (last refreshed Apr

2023). These statistics change from year to year. Your actual ATAR will depend on the scaling statistics

applied in the year you receive your ATAR. Note that if you are completing the HSC from 2025, ATAR

eligibility rules will be different.

University - Institutes

University of Wollongong - Options Day Live

18 December

Join us for Options Day: Live, where you can get all your questions about university answered in real-time!

Whether your ATAR was higher or lower than expected, you have questions about the UAC offer process, or you’re curious about courses, scholarships, or enrolment, our live-streamed event connects you directly with the people who can help. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to plan your future with the University of Wollongong.

Macquarie Uni - Explore Your Options Event

17-21 December

For graduating Year 12 students - have all your questions answered at Macquarie University’s Explore Your Options. Receive personalised advice through 1:1 consultations and discover our cutting-edge facilities and stunning grounds on a campus tour. Experience our exclusive extended access day on ATAR release day (Wednesday 18 December) for extra support and to discover your pathway to success.

Macquarie Uni - Personal Consults

Book a 30-minute phone or Zoom consultation with one of our expert student advisors. This is your opportunity to talk through your individual circumstances and ask any questions you may have. You can ask about our courses, get help with understanding entry criteria, or simply find out more about university life. Book a consult to help troubleshoot any questions you have about your study options for next year.

Western Sydney University - December True Reward Deadline

Closes 11 December for Round 3

Our HSC True Reward early offer program will give school leavers much needed peace of mind, providing students with an early offer into most university degrees based on their Year 11* or Year 12 results.

The HSC True Reward program is open to both domestic and international NSW HSC students.

If you are a year 12 HSC student and have selected eligible course preferences, you will automatically be considered for a HSC True Reward early offer.

Western Sydney University - How University Works

Western Sydney University takes the mystery and confusion out of starting uni by taking you through how things work and giving you a glimpse of what to expect.

Western Sydney University Music Auditions

To audition for the degree, book a time through the link below. You will be asked to perform two short, contrasting pieces or songs (or excerpts of two pieces) and/or perform one piece and present one or more compositions as scores and/or recordings. Works performed can be covers or originals, performed solo or with accompanying musicians or with backing tracks on your phone.

Auditions will be held at the Kingswood campus or on Zoom, on the following dates:

• January 7
• January 9
• January 14
• January 16

The Gregg Indigenous Scholarship in Science

Closes 15 February 2025

$20,000 scholarship provides financial support to students in the Faculty of Science.

This scholarship is valued at $20,000 and is tenable for one year only.

You must be enrolled or have an unconditional offer of admission and commencing full-time study in an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree in the Faculty of Science at the University of Sydney

The University of Sydney course calculator

Use our ATAR search tool to explore your course options, adjustment factors and admission pathways. If you think you might be eligible for adjustment factors, include these in your ATAR estimate to see what courses you might be eligible for based on your selection rank (ATAR + adjustment factors)

University of Sydney - Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Dental Medicine Assessment Dates

15 December - last day to add degree to preferences for first round of assessment

19 December - In-person assessment day 1

13 January - last day to add degree to preferences for second round of assessment

20 January - In-person assessment day 2

Note: assessment dates and assessment modes are not negotiable and eligible candidates must attend the first assessment day after the release of their ATAR (or other secondary education qualification) results.

University of Sydney Portfolio Submission Pathways for Architecture 

Round 2 Closes 8 December

Round 3 will open 16 December and close 5 January

If you didn’t quite get the required ATAR, you can apply for entry into one of our undergraduate degrees with a portfolio that shows your design skills and creativity.

The portfolio submission is a potential way for you to gain entry into our programs if you achieved close to the required ATAR (or equivalent). In conjunction with the HSC and other formal assessment systems, it assists the University to identify students with the potential to excel in architecture or design computing.

If you are expecting to receive an ATAR of up to five points lower than or roughly around the ATAR for your preferred course, we encourage you to apply by submitting a portfolio.

University of Sydney Info Day

18 December

Visit us on campus from 1 pm on ATAR release and close of preferences day. Attend information sessions, take a campus tour, talk to our team about admission pathways, and have your degree-specific questions answered by our academics.

University of Sydney - Parents and caregivers webinar

16 December

On December 18, 2024, ATAR release and UAC preferences will coincide, creating a unique decision- making challenge for school leavers. Join our webinar to understand these changes and discover how you can support your child in preparing for different outcomes. Learn strategies to empower your child’s future and maximise their options for university study in 2025.

University of Sydney Webinar - UAC preferencing: Your guide to admissions

December 18

Join us for an insightful session where we’ll explain how UAC preferences and offers work, detailing the entire process from ATAR release through to the completion of all offer rounds for Semester 1, 2025.

Discover how to confidently prioritise your preferences and navigate the UAC offer rounds to maximise your chances of receiving an offer to your dream degree.

University of Sydney Campus Tours

11 December - Business and Economics Faculty Tours

12 December - Architecture and Design Faculty Tours

13 December - Medicine and Health Faculty Tours

14 December - Science Faculty Tours

16 December - Arts and Law Faculty Tours

17 December - Engineering Faculty Tours

Join our knowledgeable Student Ambassadors for a guided campus tour highlighting the most iconic spots on our beautiful grounds. At the end of the 30-minute general tour, you’ll have the option to participate in a faculty-specific tour to explore our dedicated teaching spaces. This segment will be led by a Student Ambassador from the faculty, giving you the chance to ask them anything about their student experience.

UTS Info Day

18 December, 9am - 3pm

Info Day is your chance to explore your course and pathways options.

Speak 1-1 with UTS staff, attend an info session or join a campus tour to discover more about your options at UTS.

ANU Webinar - Moving interstate for University

9 December

Join us to hear about life on campus at the Australian National University. During this webinar you will hear from current students with lived experience, discussing what it’s like to move interstate for university, the different accommodation communities on campus, the various supports available including the Tertiary Access Payment, networks/clubs to join and the essentials to settle in comfortably. We’ll also have a live Q&A session where you can get all your questions answered. This webinar aims to provide prospective

interstate students with all the information they need to feel confident and prepared for their move to ANU.

It’s a great opportunity to get a real sense of what to expect and to ask any questions you might have.

ACU Change of Preference Event and Campus Tours

17 and 18 December

Blacktown, North Sydney and Strathfield Campuses Attend a guided campus tour to explore what ACU has to offer, and to discuss your study options and pathways to ACU. Places are limited so register early to avoid disappointment.

Essential Energy Aboriginal and Torres Strait Scholarship

Applications Close 13 January

Essential Energy is a NSW Government owned corporation, with responsibility for building, operating and maintaining Australia’s largest electricity network-delivering essential network services to more than 800,000 homes and businesses across 95% of NSW and parts of southern Queensland.

Notre Dame Info Day 2024

18 December

This event is your key to starting your university journey in 2025 with confidence. Whether you're a high school student, a university graduate, or an international student, this is your chance to experience life at Notre Dame.  You will have the opportunity to speak one-to-one with faculty staff, receive personalised assistance and advice on your pathway to university, and discuss your study options. For those who have already applied to Notre Dame, our student advisors and admission officers will be available to guide you to the next stage of your Notre Dame journey ahead of Semester 1 commencement.

UNSW Parents Info Evening 2024: Navigating UAC and offers

17 December

Empower yourself to support your child on their journey to university.

Through Parents Info Evening, you'll understand your teen's options and learn how to provide the support they need to navigate their decision. The livestream will cover:

• Guiding your child through UAC preferences, the offer and admission process, and the support available to them
• How your child can make the most of their uni experience
• Live Q&A: get your questions answered and understand what other parents and caregivers are curious about

UNSW Info Day

18 December

Finalise your path to UNSW with confidence. 

Get personalised advice and insights before you finalise your UAC preferences at UNSW Info Day. With ATARs released at 9am and UAC’s change of preferences deadline at midnight, this is your opportunity to get all your last minute questions answered. Explore your study options, tour our campus, and chat with academics and current students, so you can feel confident in your choice. 

Get a taste of life as a UNSW student:

• Attend lectures on your area of interest
• Explore UNSW on a campus tour
• Chat with academics and current students in our advisory zones

A guide on changing preferences for Australian universities

If you didn’t have your head on straight while choosing your uni preferences, we’ve got good news – it’s ok to change your mind, and it could mean finding your perfect degree. Have a question about changing preferences that an internet search won’t solve? Here, we hash out in-depth information on ATARs and receiving and deferring offers. 

Degree Costs Fee Structure and Loans

There are countless things to think about when you start sorting through your study options: the course you want to do and where you want to do it, just to name a couple. But what about the cost of your course? In the same way as it is helpful to understand the structure of your program and its graduate opportunities, it also helps to know exactly where you stand on the costs front. The cost of your education and how you pay for it vary depending on a few factors, which will be explained 

Why choose a Double Degrees?

If you’re looking at courses, you’ve probably heard of double degrees and know (roughly) what they involve. But why would you choose one? Find out three of the most common reasons. Some universities offer their own combinations; others may allow you to choose a combination of your choice. Keep in mind, too, that double degrees are not just the domain of undergraduate study.

UNSW Bridging Courses

Bridging courses offer you the opportunity to revise or strengthen your knowledge of HSC Physics, Chemistry or Mathematics so you can successfully manage your studies in year one of university. Your lecturer or tutor will reasonably expect this assumed knowledge at the beginning of your studies. Undertaking the bridging course will ensure you’re not at a disadvantage if you do not have a strong background or any prior knowledge in one or more of these HSC subjects and intend on studying a degree that assumes knowledge of these subjects.

University - General

Simulated UCAT Day Workshop: 2-part program

21 December

The Simulated UCAT Day (SUD) 2-Part workshop conducted over a full day and a follow-up session.

If you are in Yrs. 10, 11, 12, or you may be older and considering sitting the UCAT in the future, then this program is for you. The Simulated UCAT Workshop program is ideal and often a necessary step towards effective and efficient preparation for the UCAT. 

The workshop is primarily designed to cover fundamental techniques in navigating all five sections of the UCAT test and also for participants to gain a better understanding of their own level of preparedness for the test. Over the course of the years, the program has evolved into a more comprehensive and holistic exercise, which not only achieves its primary goal, but it is also exposing students to a wealth of knowledge about all other aspects of the journey into a medical degree. The latest update has seen the program grow into a 2-Day event as the sheer amount of content covered was too great to fit into a 1-day program.

TAFE

1300Apprentice Early Offer Trainee Intake 2025, Sydney, NSW

Imagine learning while earning a full-time wage, gaining hands-on experience in a real work environment, and achieving recognised qualifications—all without the burden of student debt.

At 1300apprentice, we have some of the best host employers in their industries looking for motivated trainees ready to start in 2025. You will be employed through 1300apprentice and paid while you undertake a certificate through an accredited Registered Training Organisation while you learn on-the-job skills in your chosen vocation. Get in early to secure your early offer traineeship and finish your HSC, knowing that you have your career ready and waiting for you. 

We offer traineeships opportunities in:

• Administration: Business, Accounts Administration, HR, Medical Administration, Marketing, Customer Engagement
• IT: Certificate III & IV in Networking, Programming
• Transport & Logistics: Warehousing, Supply Chain Operations
• Automotive: Sales Administration, Marketing.
• Horticulture: Landscaping, Parks; Gardens, Retail Nursery, Sports Turf Management, Arboriculture
• Electrical: Electrical, Instrumentation; Control, Air-conditioning; Refrigeration, Telecommunications, Electronics, Security Equipment
• Engineering: Fabrication, Boiler making, Fitter/Machinist, Sheet Metals, Mechanical
• Automotive: Light Vehicle, Heavy Vehicle, Spare Parts, Spray Painting, Panel Beating, Motorcycle
• Construction: Carpentry, Shopfitting, Cabinetmaking, Signs & Graphics, Printing, Painting.

Automotive Apprenticeships - Apprenticeships R Us

Apprenticeships Are Us is a Group Training Organisation (GTO) that has been supplying quality Automotive Apprentices to the industry for over 15 years. We Specialise in Mechanical Apprenticeships for Light and Heavy Vehicles, Accident Repair trades such as Panel Beating and Spray Painting. Check out our current vacancies for Light Vehicle, Panel Beating, Spray Painting and Spare Parts Apprenticeships

TAFE Digital Has Options For You

Browse our online courses TAFE Digital offers a wide range of nationally recognised, online study options, across a range of modern industries. You can study online and enjoy flexible learning to fit your lifestyle, with our online short courses, certificates, diplomas, and degrees.

Expression of Interest for Electrical Apprenticeships

The apprenticeship lasts for a total of 4 years. For the first three years, you will be required to work four days on site to gather on-the-job experience, and one day undertaking technical studies. The fourth year will consist of only on-the-job training.

My Trade Start

My Trade Start offers a range of automotive and business certified courses including automotive apprenticeships in conjunction with Apprenticeships R Us. My Trade Start provides quality training with a modern approach.

Private Colleges

Screenwise Founder’s Acting Scholarship

Applications Now Open for 2025

The Screenwise Founder’s Scholarship offers one two-year full-time scholarship to study the 10869NAT Advanced Diploma of Screen Acting. Valued at $38,000 The Founder’s Scholarship covers tuition fees for the 10869NAT Advanced Diploma Screen Acting Program over the complete course of two years. Tuition Fees also include production of the Scholarship recipient’s Showreel and Industry Graduation Showcase upon completion of the program. In addition to full subsidisation of tuition fees, the successful applicant will receive extended mentoring from Screenwise Founder and CEO Denise Roberts throughout their studies. The opportunity to access quality skills training as a screen actor in Australia has become increasingly difficult to access. Economically and socially disadvantaged students are most affected, and will be faced with numerous barriers in pursuit of a career as a professional Film and TV Actor. Many young and talented Australian actors may never achieve their goals as a consequence. Somewhere across our nation another Hemsworth or Kidman may never reach their potential as a professional Film and TV Actor. The question remains, what can our industry leaders do to ensure that Australian Film and TV Actors continue to thrive on local and international screens?

JMC Acting Audition Guide

We understand auditioning can be a daunting process and we hope to make your audition experience as enjoyable as possible. We make allowances for nerves and want to see you do your best.

Our audition process is designed to allow you to be as comfortable and free as possible. We are not looking for the greatest actor in the world! Instead we want to get to know YOU as the actor you are NOW.

For us, it is about making sure this course is right for you and that we believe that through your experience of the course you will grow to become an actor with your own unique individuality ready to claim your space at the end of your two years of training.

You will be required to prepare two (2) monologues for your audition. You may select the monologues from the JMC Monologues or they may be of your own choosing. One (1) of your monologues needs to be Shakespearean; the other one may be from any Contemporary published play or film.

Here are a few hints on how to best prepare and enjoy your audition with us.

ACPE Early Offer

Beat the HSC Stress!

Take advantage of ACPE’s Early Entry and Offer Program in 3 easy steps. 

1. Apply either direct via our website or via UAC 
2. Upload your Yr.11 Results and complete the form below. 
3. Receive an offer and accept it on either UAC or via ACPE’s direct application

Applications open Web Development Bootcamp - Diploma of Information Technology

Next intake 10 February

Become a Full Stack Developer in 10 months. Code every day, build tech with impact & collaborate with like-minded peers. Gain a nationally-recognised qualification and industry experience with a 1-month optional industry placement (subject to eligibility criteria)

Sydney Design School - Interior Decoration Workshop

21 - 22 January

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.

SAE Webinar: More Than A Score - The SAE Difference

13 December

No matter where SAE University College lands on your higher education preference list, our More Than A Score Online Session will help you figure out exactly where you want to be. Come vibe with us to uncover the real deal about who we are, what sets us apart, and where a degree from SAE could take you!

AIM Info Day

18 December

Deciding on which path to take after school can be a daunting decision to make.

If you are passionate about music but you have plenty of questions about pursuing a career in the music industry, we’re here to help. As the only tertiary institution in Australia dedicated to music, we’ve helped people join a creative and enriching community of musicians and creatives for over 50 years.

Our Tune Your Future Info Day is an opportunity to get first-hand insight and guidance to a rewarding and fulfilling career in music through music education.

AIT Open Day 2025

17 January

Join interactive workshops and watch live demonstrations led by our expert educators.

Take a guided tour of our campus and explore our state-of-the-art facilities.

Get hands-on experience in our Post Production Studio and Green Screen Room.

Engage with course advisors, educators, and current students to have all your questions answered.

General

Your rights at work Young workers & students

Starting work can be an exciting time. While every workplace is different, there are rights and responsibilities that apply to all employees. Follow the tips below to help prepare for a new job.

Your Cabin Crew Career Starts with Aviation Australia

Open a world of opportunity through an exciting Cabin Crew career that allows you to travel around the world, discover new cultures, people and unlimited unforgettable experiences. Aviation Australia offers a range of study options from short courses that focus on the recruitment journey to more extensive practical training options to help you gain the knowledge and skills to get you through ground school.

Westpac Young Technologist Scholarship

Applications Close 15 January

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.

Gap Year with CCUSA

For almost 40 years, CCUSA has sent hundreds of thousands of young people to camp, work, intern and volunteer experiences all around the world. We are an internationally recognized cultural exchange organization that offers several programs worldwide to participants from over 60 different countries. The time of your life is waiting for you . . .and we are here to make that happen.

Financial support for school leavers

There are a range of student payments available for school leavers going on to further study, including ABSTUDY and Youth Allowance for Students and Apprentices. Find out which financial support packages you may be eligible for using the Payment and Services Finder

Do You Want to Run Your Own Boss – Become an Entrepreneur

Starting your own business can be one of the most rewarding and satisfying experiences you can have.

Find out more with our guide to getting started. Starting your own business and entering the world of entrepreneurship is something that more and more Australians are doing. The increase in connectedness across the globe means that the structure of employment has changed rapidly, enabling more people to realise their dream of becoming a business owner.

Which area of engineering should you study?

We’ve been working on our video content and our YouTube channel is packed with fun, free careers resources to clue you up on STEM pathways. To start? Suss a compatible engineering job – one of the most consistently in-demand occupations for STEM grads.

Quiz: Should I study computer science?

Computer science, which is the study of computers and computational systems, has computer scientists working mainly with software and software systems in areas of development, design, application and theory. It’s a great degree if you’re looking to future proof your career, as computer scientists are in demand in SO many industries – tech, biology, defence, design, finance, cybersecurity… These clever peeps can work just about anywhere! But is it the right study and career pathway for you? Find out by taking our quiz.

YouthXP - First Dedicated Jobs Website for Young Employees between 15-24

If you’re aged 15-24, YouthXP is here to get you a job! YouthXP is designed with features such as the ability to add your specific availability, recognition of your achievements in school and sports, and much more, to fit in with your lifestyle. YouthXP aims to break the cycle which so many young people find themselves in, where every job requires experience, but none are willing to provide it.

Check out the CV of a CommBank tech grad

After graduating, Tori joined CommBank as a tech grad (cyber) – and uses her STEM skills, creativity and knack for communication to keep the bank safe from hackers

3 essential questions to ask before choosing your study and career path

There is so much to think about when choosing a uni degree, and it can get a little overwhelming. And then,when you think you’ve made up your mind, the deadline for changing preferences looms and you start to doubt yourself all over again!  There are the obvious questions like, where do you want to live? What was your favourite subject at school? What ATAR did you get? But we want you to go deeper with these three philosophical questions that will help you think about your path in a new light, and might even change your approach or plans altogether!

Melanie Bullok

Careers Advisor

From the College Counsellor

What we Focus on Grows 

It may come as little surprise to most parents; when you ask your child “how was your day?”, you may be often met with a negative response! The good news is that we can help our children to counteract this negativity bias (defined as a tendency to focus on, learn from, and use negative information much more than positive information). Negativity bias is particularly evident when despite experiencing several good or positive events in a day, our disposition to focus on the negative can result in us ruminating over small insignificant everyday events.
An additional example of negativity bias in action is from research demonstrating that on average we have been found to attend more to and experience stronger reactions to negative news in the media than positive news.
By focusing on what went well in any given situation, we can savour the good and help to retrain our brain to look for the positives, not only the negatives. This relates to the idea of neuroplasticity which is the brain’s ability to change itself in response to experience or learning.

Try this!

• Talk to your child about their changing brain, and how ‘what you focus on grows’ .
• Each evening, spend time to reflect with your child on three things that went well in their day and why. Where appropriate, you may like to highlight any strengths that your child used along the way (e.g., being brave in a class presentation, showing kindness to a friend). You may like to share this at the dinner table, or before bedtime.  
  

Here are a couple of helpful resources:

The Harvard Graduate School of Education article on ‘The Biology of Positive Habits’ includes excellent mindfulness exercises to build positive habits over time
https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/16/03/biology-positive-habits

Dr Rick Hansen’s article “How to grow the good in your brain”
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_grow_the_good_in_your_brain

Take care,
Dimity
College Counsellor

Ultimate School Holiday Fun