Term 4 - Week 4

A Message from the Principal

Dear Parents, Carers and Friends of Bethany,

During the week you received correspondence from our Interim Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) outlining that I will be leaving Bethany at the end of the year to take up a new role at SCS. I have been asked by many members of our community what my new role entails. As Manager of School Support, I will be working with secondary schools across SCS to offer support to Principals and leadership teams as well as liaising with the many directorates across SCS for targeted support where necessary to aid schools. In short my role will be to use my experience as a Principal and apply it to many schools together with each school leader. Whilst I am very excited about the opportunity to work at a system level, I am also filled with immense gratitude for what the Bethany Community has taught me and how it has shaped me as a person and as a leader.

In the remaining weeks, I look forward to expressing further gratitude as well as inducting a new College Principal. Rest assured that the process has begun to recruit my replacement. Bethany College is and will continue to be in good hands. We have many great plans for 2025 and I will continue to work towards setting these plans up with the leadership team in the weeks ahead.

Congratulations to Year 12 on finishing their HSC Exams this week. The final exam was yesterday. Year 12 can now look forward to their formal next week and then to the release of results mid December. We are proud of the way that every single girl gave her best effort for each exam and we hope that Year 12 now enjoy some quality relaxation time.

Robyn Rodwell

College Principal

From the Assistant Principal

Last Tuesday, we had a fantastic day welcoming our new Year 7 students to the College for their Orientation Day. Our new students spent the day getting to know each other and our school. They were warmly welcomed by our Year 12 students. They then spent time on a school tour with a group of Year 9 students and undertook some mini lessons with teachers and students from Year 10. The best part of the day was watching our current students and our new students interact with each other on Yallunga Court. The new Year 7’s got a real sense of school life and the busyness of high school. Our students were wonderful ambassadors for the College and I sincerely thank them and the teachers who helped out on the day for their time and energy.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve had several conversations with parents who have expressed their concerns about social media and how to help their children manage their social media use and the way they interact with people online. The two apps that I get asked the most about are Snapchat and TikTok. I have to be honest; I’m not an expert on either of these two platforms and I don’t have either of them on my phone.

I did a little research and found these two guides.

https://www.tiktok.com/safety/en/guardians-guide/

The TikTok Guardian’s Guide is designed to provide an overview of TikTok and the many tools and controls that have been built into the product to keep our community safe. The guide also provides general information on common internet safety concerns. One thing I learned that was interesting was around the importance of putting your real age into the app when signing up for it. Some might not think it is a big deal to not have your real age listed in the app but TikTok explains in their guide that content is shaped to be age-appropriate. If you are familiar with TikTok, you know that it is a bit of a free-for-all in terms of the kinds of things that you can be exposed to. Checking the age your daughter has listed in the app might be one way to better protect them online.

Snapchat also provides a guide to arm parents with tools and resources to help their teens use Snapchat safely. Within the guide, you can learn more about how to use Snapchat's parental controls, download a checklist of key safety tips to discuss with your teens, and access expert resources. There is also a feature on Snapchat that will restrict their exposure to inappropriate content; something definitely worth looking into.

https://parents.snapchat.com/en-GB/parental-controls

I found both of these guides very helpful for a novice like me. I hope you find them useful too!

For your forward planning, the last day of school activities for students is Friday the 13th of December. The day will begin with a celebration of the Eucahrist, followed by the presentation of Semester 2, Academic Awards. Parents will be notified if their child is receiving an award via email.

Following the presentation of Academic Awards students will be dismissed. The day will conclude for students at 1.30pm.

Following this, Year 7-11 Parent/ Teacher/ Student interviews are also on the horizon.  Face to face interviews will be held at the College on Monday 16th of December.  Interviews on Tuesday 17th of December will be held via Zoom. More information will be provided over the coming weeks.

Important Dates for Term 4

Kristina Flanagan

Assistant Principal

Religious Education

Walking Together- Isn’t That What Jesus Wanted?

The recent Synod on Synodality has been an event of deep significance for the Catholic Church, marking a period of listening, discernment, and renewal. The Synod, convened by Pope Francis, is part of a larger process that invites the global Church to reflect on its mission, roles, and relationships at every level. It emphasises a "synodal" approach to church governance and pastoral outreach—one that seeks to bring together all voices within the Church. In this context, Pope Francis has highlighted the Synod's value as a "threefold gift," which he describes as “guarding harmony, dispelling rigidity, and working towards a church in which the Spirit breathes.” This powerful expression highlights the Synod's purpose of nurturing a Church that listens, learns, and adapts to the needs of all people, echoing the way Jesus invited others to journey alongside Him in His ministry.

The Synod's theme of walking together, or synodality, resonates with the Pope’s vision of harmony within the Church. Synodality calls upon the Church to find unity in diversity. Just as the body has many parts, each with its distinct role, the Church is a living entity composed of unique individuals. This idea is reflected in Jesus’ own ministry, especially in moments like on the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35), where Jesus walks alongside His disciples after His resurrection. He listens to their concerns, shares in their journey, and helps them understand the deeper meaning of recent events. When Pope Francis speaks of "guarding harmony," he is emphasising the importance of this kind of respectful, open communication—a harmony where the Church remains united even as it embraces a broad spectrum of perspectives and experiences.

Another aspect of this "threefold gift" is the dispelling of rigidity. Pope Francis has often spoken about the dangers of inflexibility within the Church. By dispelling rigidity, the Synod invites all Catholics to practice openness and adaptability in their faith. Jesus demonstrates this openness in the way He calls His disciples to follow Him on a shared journey (Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20). When Jesus calls Peter, Andrew, James, and John to leave their fishing nets and join Him, He is inviting them into a lifelong journey of transformation and ministry. A synodal Church is not one that clings to rigid forms or outdated practices but one that, like Jesus, listens to the needs and concerns of the faithful, especially those on the margins. Through this openness, the Church can more effectively address contemporary challenges and nurture a spirit of compassion and inclusivity.

The third gift Pope Francis speaks of—"working towards a Church in which the Spirit breathes"—reminds us that the Holy Spirit is constantly at work in the Church, guiding it toward truth and renewal. A synodal Church relies on the Holy Spirit as a dynamic source of inspiration, grace, and wisdom. This reflects Jesus' teaching that “where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20). The presence of the Holy Spirit in the community emphasises that God is alive in the Church’s fellowship and that communal prayer and decision-making allow the Spirit to move and guide effectively. It is through this openness to the Spirit that the Church can discern how best to respond to the world's needs today, fostering a Church that is adaptable and responsive to the promptings of the Spirit.

The call to walk together as a community extends beyond the walls of the Church and into Catholic schools, families, and individual lives. In our Catholic school community, the spirit of synodality encourages us to journey together in a supportive and inclusive environment. It challenges us to listen to one another—students, staff, and families alike—and to value the unique gifts that each person brings. This echoes the time when Jesus sent out His disciples two by two (Mark 6:7-13; Luke 10:1-12), capturing the importance of accompaniment and mutual support in ministry. As a school community, we are called to be a reflection of the Church’s commitment to harmony and open dialogue, providing spaces for students and staff to share, discuss, and explore their faith openly. 

In our personal lives and families, this invitation to walk together asks us to foster relationships that are characterised by empathy, understanding, and openness. Jesus taught this through the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), where the Samaritan stops to care for a wounded traveler, embodying the principles of mercy, compassion, and walking alongside others in their times of need. Practicing listening and respecting diverse perspectives within our families builds a culture of dialogue that mirrors the Church's synodal mission. Whether in times of joy or challenge, walking together means prioritising our relationships with love and respect, recognising the dignity and worth of each individual. In this way, we each contribute to building a “church in which the Spirit breathes”—a church that is responsive to the needs of the present and deeply rooted in the values of Christ's teachings.

The Synod on Synodality ultimately invites all Catholics to embark on a shared journey of faith, one that guards harmony, dispels rigidity, and breathes with the Spirit. As a Catholic school community, we are called to reflect these values in our relationships and to foster a spirit of unity, inclusivity, and openness. By doing so, we join the broader Church in its mission to be a living witness to Christ’s love in the world. 

Adsumus, Sancte Spiritus

The traditional prayer used to open the Synod is called the Adsumus, Sancte Spiritus or “We Stand Before You, Holy Spirit.” This ancient prayer has roots in Church tradition and was notably prayed by the bishops during the Second Vatican Council. Its purpose is to invoke the guidance of the Holy Spirit throughout the deliberations of the Synod, helping participants seek unity, wisdom, and inspiration. The prayer petitions the Holy Spirit to enter the hearts of those gathered, guiding them to justice, discernment, and alignment with God’s will. 

You are invited to recite this prayer, acknowledging our need for divine guidance as we continue on our synodal journey.

 - synod.va

Sara Camporeale

Leader of Religious Education & Mission

Teaching and Learning News

Congratulation to Year 12 for completing their HSC

Congratulations, Year 12, and a sincere congratulations to the proud parents and families of Yr 12! After nearly 50 HSC subjects completed across over 100 hours of exams, major works and performances you have officially finished High School.

You did it. Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you've successfully completed your HSC. This is a significant milestone in your academic journey, after 13 years of formal schooling and countless lessons, assignments, excursions, failures and successes, report cards and assemblies, this now marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your lives.

As you move forward, remember that your accomplishments today are a testament to your potential and ability. Embrace the opportunities that lie ahead with confidence and enthusiasm, knowing that you have the skills and knowledge to excel in whatever path you choose.

This is a moment to celebrate not just the achievements of Year 12 but also the unwavering support and guidance provided by parents throughout the journey. Your hard work, dedication, and countless hours of study have paid off, and you've successfully completed your HSC. It's a significant milestone and a testament to your determination and commitment.

We celebrate this achievement with you and wish both Year 12 and their parents all the happiness and success in the world. Congratulations to the Class of 2024 and their proud parents and supportive families. 

First Assessment Tasks for Year 12 2025 and Final Assessments for Year 7-10

Term 4 is always a busy time in schools as we reach the end of topics in Stage 4, 5 and 6 courses and we start to finalise assessment marks for our Year 7-10 subjects and our new Year 12 students complete some of their first HSC assessment tasks. We encourage all students to prepare early and be proactive in their studies to give themselves every opportunity to show how well they understand their course content and the relevant skills they have acquired. 

Study Skills

Overcoming RoadBlocks

Studying effectively can be challenging, and it’s common for students to encounter obstacles that disrupt their path to academic success. However, with the right mindset and strategies, these roadblocks can be overcome. Practical tips are there to help students maximise their study efforts, stay motivated, and build positive study habits that last. 

Read on for helpful advice on overcoming roadblocks to study success and learn how to make the most of the study tools available. Don’t forget, you can also explore more strategies at www.studyskillshandbook.com.au by logging in with the details below and working through the units.

Sarah Rowland                                                                                          Cameron Paff

Leader of Curriculum                                                                              Leader of Data & Growth

Step Up into Teaching Program

This year we have had four year 11 girls accepted into the Australian Catholic University Step Up into Teaching Program. The transition from secondary school to university can be daunting but the Step Up into Teaching initiative introduces university-level study to secondary students in a controlled and supportive tertiary preview. Students in Year 11 or 12 can study a first-year teacher education unit (Fee Free!). Students then receive credit to a first year Bachelor degree  if they choose to enrol at ACU after the HSC and choose to study a relevant teacher education course. These students spent a week in the Term 3 holidays attending university lectures and tutorials and competing assessments.They will also attend another week in January 2025. Here’s what the girls have to say about their experience:

The ACU Step Up Into Teaching (SUIT) program gave us an insightful, five-day immersion into university life, particularly, learning about primary and secondary education, which we thoroughly enjoyed. Throughout the week, we delved into managing diverse student needs, understanding their development, and effectively handling classroom behaviours. The intensive workload was challenging yet rewarding, giving us a clear sense of what to expect as future full-time students. We navigated the campus without getting lost, made new friends, and soaked in the energetic environment. This valuable experience has only heightened our enthusiasm for university and passion for teaching and are looking forward to going back in the 6 week holidays.

Melanie Bullock

Year 11 Coordinator

Year 9 Pastoral incursion - Be Challenged ‘Great Peer Leaders’

Tuesday, 29th October 2024

In preparation for the Year 10 Big Sister Little Sister peer support program, I invited the Be Challenged team to run a workshop on being great peer leaders. Whether students apply for leadership or not, they all benefit from the skills presented to be confident young people who can positively lead themselves. 

This workshop demonstrated how communication can be understood by personal strengths. This is a common theme in the curriculum, whereby our teaching is based on a strengths-based approach. In Year 7, the students had opportunities to explore their top 3 strengths, and more opportunities will arise in Year 10 to link their strengths to career possibilities. 

Communication skills take time to develop and are integral to leadership, influence and role modelling.

“...it’s that leadership isn’t about the badge or title; it’s about the impact and influence you have” (Year 10 student).

Trust plays a vital role in leadership development.

Constantly rely on each other, Celebrate the wins, Clear communication, Connection, Commitment.

TRUST is a byproduct of the five C’s.

Another term learned in the workshop is ‘managing up,’ which involves effectively communicating with leaders such as the Deputy Principal or Principal.

Students explored the secret ingredients of communication for leaders through the FACED communication model.

Fairness; Active listening; Calm and collaboration; Empathy and kindness; Discuss possible solutions and confidently express your perspective

This positive workshop encouraged students to try stepping up into a leadership role and build positive communication skills that enable them to lead themselves and those around them positively.

Katrine Barnes

Year 9 Coordinator

Library News

Behind the Bookmarks: The Literary Lives of Teachers

I am pleased to introduce a new feature in our ‘Library News’ section! ‘Behind the Bookmarks’ will focus on celebrating the reading habits of teaching and support staff at Bethany. You may or may not be aware, but we have many staff who are avid readers! Each fortnight, we will get to know the relationship our members of staff have with reading. In doing so, we will celebrate the diverse reading experiences within our own Bethany community! For this newsletter, Ms Rose Carruthers and Mr Cameron Paff have kindly offered to be interviewed. We hope you enjoy!

Ms Rose Carruthers

‘I was raised in a family of readers. There were always books in the house. Mum was always reading and Dad would always have something interesting to say. So I just think from very early on, you can know so much about the world if you read’.

Can you please tell us about the role you have here at Bethany?

I am the Assistant English Coordinator and look after curriculum and assessment for Years 7-10. I also teach junior English and senior Standard English.

How would you describe yourself as a reader?

I'm very ‘on and off’. I've just come out of a massive slump of four years. Over COVID, I got a little bit distracted by technology and stopped reading completely. I've recently started buying books again and looking at book lists. I can be very ‘on and off’, which I think is interesting when talking to my students about reading, because they often are in the slumps themselves, so I try to give advice for how to get out of it.

What what are some of the tips for trying to get out of a reading slump?

I find reading very short, absorbable texts gets me back into it, then I can tackle something bigger and harder. If I try to read something that's too long or too complicated too quickly I'll just immediately put it back down. So something weird, something wacky, something short.

How do you incorporate reading into your daily routine?

This is one of the things that helped me get out of my slump and I'm very prescriptive with it. I carry a book wherever I go. I get the bus to and from school, so I have half an hour in the morning when I'm on the bus and I have half an hour in the afternoon when I go home.

What formats do you prefer (physical books, e-books, audiobooks) and why?

I prefer physical. I think that’a also stemmed from being an English teacher. I like to have it in my hands and I also like the support that it gives to authors. I feel like in the digital age there's a little bit less memory that these are people who make this, so I do like supporting authors, writers and poets by buying their things.

Why do you believe reading is important for students?

There's a bank of studies and research to support that reading is important for students. Just even being in a school and being an English teacher, you learn so much even if you're reading little bits every day and it's not just information that you're learning - you're learning new words and what sounds good in terms of a certain structure. You learn immediately by just absorbing everything.

What are some benefits you've personally experienced from reading?

You learn empathy and sympathy and about people's perspectives. I feel like we've become very insular. Which isn't a bad thing, but I feel like it allows you to understand someone's perspective without having to go through something good, bad or boring and it allows us to step in someone's shoes. It gives you time to reflect and take on that perspective.

Do you have any reading goals that you set for yourself?

I do. I have an app on my phone called Goodreads. Through the app you can set reading goals for yourself for the year, so this year I set myself 30 books as a goal and I surpassed it not too long ago.

What genres do you enjoy reading the most and what draws you to them?

I read almost exclusively horror or dark literature. I find living in 21st century Australia and in a fairly middle class upbringing, there's not a lot of doom and gloom and any of that kind of darker side so it just really draws me in, I just find it very interesting.

Can you recommend a book you believe everyone should read and explain why?

Even though it is a bit older, I think everyone should read, ‘What's Eating Gilbert Grape’. It's a really interesting look at family and a really interesting look at growing up and how dynamics within families can impact you in those really formative years.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about teachers and their reading habits?

I think for especially English, Library or History teachers, people think we read constantly and it's a consistent stream of reading, but any kind of avid reader knows that there are slumps. Teachers spend the majority of their time reading student responses.. So a lot of it is that we don't actually get to read for enjoyment. So I think there's this misconception that we just read whatever we want and that we're doing it all the time.

Is there a specific quote or passage from a book that resonates with you?

‘Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life - and travel - leaves marks on you. Most of the time, those marks - on your body or on your heart - are beautiful’ - Anthony Bourdain, chef and author

How do you feel when you finish a good book?

I often feel devastated, depending on the book. A lot of the books that I read are horror, so there is an element of tension or being quite anxious or being scared. You get attached to the story and what's going on for the characters.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I always get asked by parents what can they keep doing to improve in English and my answer is literally always reading. You don't have to sit down and read for 45 minutes and I it read for 10 minutes and then put the book down, or get a short article or even magazines, they alll completely valid forms of writing and reading.

Mr Cameron Paff

"Reading opens doors, to the past, the future, other worlds, other people and opportunities"

Can you please tell us about the role you have here at Bethany?

I'm the Leader of Data in Growth so I look at monitoring student performance and growth across a range of different data sets like the HSC, NAPLAN and PAT and ensure that teachers have access to that information so they can inform that teaching practices. I also look at strategies to improve professional development of our staff to ensure that they can achieve the best outcomes for our students.

How would you describe yourself as a reader?

I'm not a ‘read every day’ kind of person. Often, I would rather watch a movie about a book rather than read the book. If I'm going to choose a book, I need to make sure that it's something that sparks my interest and it needs to be relatively short chapters or sections so that I can pick it up and put it down at different times.

Can you tell us about one of the books you've bought today?

One of my favourite books is Batavia by Peter FitzSimons. I like Peter’s books because they are based around real-life events. I like this one in particular, because it is about Australia and a little unknown piece of history and the way that he's written it is mind boggling. It’s about how people are put in different situations and how they react. It shows the good in people but it also shows the very worst as well.

How do you incorporate reading into your daily routine?

Part of my job is reading for work, so much of it is reading emails or student responses. But in terms of reading for enjoyment, at night I'll often read to my children. It’s a time when we can relax and reconnect after a busy day either at work or at school. For me, it is also about finding a quiet place at the start of the day to read newspaper articles relevant to the things that I'm teaching, so I usually do that early in the morning as well.

Why do you believe reading is important for students?

I heard someone talking once about the importance of reading and saying how crime rates in countries where the literacy levels are higher, are significantly lower because of the fact that as you learn to read, you develop the ability to empathise more with the characters in a book and therefore empathise with people in society more. So the importance for students is that they can gain an understanding of the lives of other people and maybe find comfort in the fact that other people might be going through something very similar to them. They can understand that there are strategies that others have used to survive difficult times, whether it be something in life or whether it be something in their day-to-day schooling. They can find solace or comfort in the words of other people.

What are some benefits you've personally experienced from reading?

As a father of four children, reading with my kids becomes a time when we can do something together. When we read Harry Potter together, we talked about the things that were occurring in the book and how they felt in those situations. It’s also being able to paint mental pictures together about what's happening and see how their minds are working and thinking.

Having two teenage children, do you have any advice for parents on how to foster reading as their children get older?

As they get older, I feel it is more important to share recommendations with them and discuss what you are reading with each other. My children share a lot of their reading with their mum, who is an avid reader. I think when they get to that age, making suggestions about the types of books is important. It can still be a lovely experience to read together.

What’s the last book you read, and what did you think of it?

The last book that I read was ‘The Shortest History of Economics’ which was a present from one of my children and again it was related to what I teach, so I really enjoyed it from that perspective. I really enjoy looking at different aspects of my subject area that I wasn't aware of and then being able to weave those into some of the things that I'm teaching.

I've just started reading the Atomic Habits by James Clear. One section I read was how positive change is not something that happens all at once, sometimes it's a culmination of different things that build up to create that significant change. I also learnt that rather than setting goals or aims, you need to improve the processes that lead to those goals. So one of the things that that really spoke to me was that Clear said everyone that goes to the Olympic Games thinks it’s about the gold medal, but it's not about that - the person that wins the gold medal is not because they set themselves a goal of winning, it’s because they had really strong processes in place for them to get to that point. That was something that I feel sends a positive message to students when they're preparing for exams, assessment or even the HSC - that's it great to give yourself goals but looking at things that you're doing in the process to achieve those goals, is more important.

Thanks so much to Mr Paff and Ms Carruthers for their time in sharing their thoughts about reading and what it means to them. There are many takeaways for us regarding why it’s just so beneficial to incorporate more reading into our lives.

Until next time, happy reading!

Alison Sladen

Librarian

Sport Update

SCS Representative Sport 

In Round 3 Bethany teams were due to face Bosco, however due to bus issues, the oztag teams were unable to play the game which resulted in a draw/no result

Our Volleyball teams were still able to make it to their venue with the help of Ms Summons and Mr Devlin running a few drop offs with the school mini buses.

In Round 4 this week, our teams played against Aquinas College, Menai with the following results:

After four rounds our teams are placed:

Rachel Bevan

Sport Coordinator

Careers News

UAC

UAC Digital: Unlocking opportunities: Pathways to uni

13 November

This webinar charts the many pathways to a university degree. Explore pathway courses such as foundation programs, diplomas and certificates, and the potential to fast-track into the second year of a degree. Learn about the credits and articulation agreements that make these options a seamless bridge to higher education.

Whether you’re exploring different interests or you’ve faced setbacks in meeting degree entry requirements, this session offers guidance and practical advice on paving your way to success.

What to do if you get an SRS offer

If you’re in Year 12 and you applied for undergraduate study through the Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS), you may receive an offer in November Round 1 (8 November). If you don’t receive an SRS offer, don’t worry: the main offer rounds for Year 12 students are December Round 2 (23 December) and January Round 1 (9 January), after ATARs are released. Your course preferences will be considered again in these offer rounds.

SRS offers can be unconditional or conditional.

University - Institutes

Western Sydney University - November True Reward Deadline

Closes 13 November for Round 2

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 | Bankstown Sports Club Scholarship in Social Work 

Bankstown Sports Club is offering a Scholarship in Social Work valued at $10,000 per year for up to four years to new students who are studying the Bachelor of Social Work at Western in 2025. For more information about the scholarship, eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit the link 

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.

Introduction to Devising Theatre For HSC Group Performance

12-14 February

Seymour welcomes back experienced workshop facilitators, Little Eggs Collective, to our 2025 Arts Education program, for one week of intensive workshops, designed as a structured introduction to the devising process for the HSC group performance.

Students will cover four key areas:

• Operating as an ensemble
• Celebrating your skill set and embracing improvisation
• Making meaning using the elements of drama
• Forming a structure (using the "big six" as a basic structure)

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’ HSC Parents info session.

ACU Pathways Finder Tool

There are alternative pathways into a course if a student doesn’t receive the ATAR they were hoping for, including our Foundation Studies program, certificates and diplomas. Use the pathways finder tool to narrow down admission pathways for a study area or course of interest and explore your options.

Charles Sturt University Bachelor of Communication Scholarship

Applications Close 10 February 2025

The Gordon Bullock Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of his contribution to promoting Bathurst and provides financial assistance to a local Communications/Journalism student. It is open for application for commencing students and is valued at $3,000.

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.

NIE UCAT Preparation Australia 

21 December 2024. 

Attention Years 10, 11 and 12 students. A full-day UCAT Preparation Workshop

UNSW Elite Athlete Scholarships Now Open

Applications Close 2 December

UNSW offers a range of scholarships for elite athletes valued between $5,000-$10,000 each. High performance sport has a long and successful history at UNSW. Our sports program has allowed us to attract and retain some of the best and brightest student athletes, and creates a sense of pride in the UNSW name through the celebration of student and alumni success

UNSW Young Women in Engineering Pathway Program is Open for Registrations 

The 2025 UNSW Young Women in Engineering Pathway Program for Year 11 and 12 students interested in undertaking an engineering challenge at UNSW is open for registrations. The program runs from February to March 2025 for 120 students and is an alternate pathway to UNSW Engineering.

AFL SportsReady 2025 Traineeship Expression of Interest

Register your Interest for 2025 Traineeships with AFL SportsReady

Are you looking to kickstart your career while studying?

AFL SportsReady is now accepting expressions of interest for traineeships commencing in 2025. This is your chance to earn while you learn, gain valuable workplace experience and develop essential skills that will boost your future career prospects. A traineeship through AFL SportsReady is a great blend of practical experience and formal education. 

You’ll receive on-the-job training, allowing you to apply your learning in real-world situations. 

Whatever your passions are there’s a traineeship for you.

Coder Academy - Web Development Bootcamp

Next Intake 10th February

Go from not knowing a single line of code to Coding Legend in less than a year. Master the fundamentals of full stack web development in 6 or 10 months.

Our Coder Academy bootcamp team is 100% focused on helping you realise this dream, turning you into an employable programmer in less than a year. You’ll also be fully supported no matter where you are –online in our Cloud Campus, face to face at one of our Support Hubs.

Since 2015, we have been supporting people just like you, who have taken the leap into the unknown to radically change their lives. Our students come from all walks of life, and we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive, collaborative and inspiring environment. Our students develop meaningful connections, so once you join a bootcamp, expect to make friends for life and build a network of contacts in the tech industry.

40 free career pathway brochures

TAFE NSW has recently published documents to help guide students who are looking for career options, new skills, and VET to support current and future employment trends. Developed in consultation with key industry partners, these brochures are perfect for students to find their pathway at TAFE NSW

TAFE NSW Degrees Guide

Students don’t need an ATAR to study a degree with TAFE NSW, but they will graduate with a qualification that could change their future. Download the Degrees Flyer and explore the range of degrees taught by industry-experienced professionals at TAFE NSW.

TAFE Education and Career Pathways Expo 2024

12 November

In partnership with the City of Ryde, community members, current students and year 11 and 12 High School students are invited to attend the Education and Careers Expo. The expo will include a series of workshops focusing on essential skills such as interview preparation, resume writing and how to access TAFE internal services such as library network, career counselling and disability support services. Additionally there will be interactive sessions and information stalls where you can speak to TAFE NSW teachers and staff about course offerings.

AWS Girls & Tech Day

13 November

This event is a great opportunity for girls to learn, explore, and connect with others who share the same passion for STEAM. Engaging and connecting future leaders to change the face of tech AWS Girls & Tech Series event includes a variety of interactive activities and speaking sessions, led by female professionals from the science and technology industries. This program is a great opportunity for girls to learn, explore,and connect with other girls who share the same passion for STEAM in a fun and supportive environment. Exhibitors provide hands-on, interactive STEAM activities that offer the girls valuable, practical experience to engage with cutting-edge technology. The students have some interaction with exhibits, a workshop-

style activity for approximately 20 students at a time. There are 2 separate sessions: Primary School students in the morning and High School students in the afternoon.

TAFE Career Guide 2025

TAFE’s Career Guide for 2025 is now available. Check out the wide range of courses TAFE has on offer.

Private Colleges

Australian Academy of Fashion Design Courses

We offer a range of industry focused fashion design courses that will give you the practical skills to pursue your goals. The Australian Academy of Fashion Design is a BTEC Approved Centre and an Edexcel Approved Centre. Our staff, tutors and courses have been thoroughly vetted and are continually monitored by Edexcel, who are owned by Pearson, the world’s largest education company.

ACPE 2025 Scholarships for Sport and Dance

Scholarship students become ACPE Ambassadors of the college, its values, and generations of alumni who share this legacy of excellence in industry. Share your passion with us – your journey with ACPE starts now! Applications are now open for commencing students scholarship program.

Sydney Actors School Open Now for Enrolment 2025

Applications now open for 2025 Sydney Actors School’s Diploma provides students with strong skills in all aspects of acting for screen and stage, the ability to create and perform full theatrical and film productions and the technical aptitude to generate your own work and opportunities. Graduate with a Showreel, Voice Reel, Industry Showcase, Short Films and Play Productions.

Sydney Film School - 2025 Applications Now Open

Applications to Sydney Film School are now open for the January 2025 intake. Hollywood based Variety Magazine has awarded Sydney Film School its top film schools for 2020 accolade. The only Australian film school to be awarded. Sydney Film School was founded to teach the essential filmmaking ‘tools’ necessary for a successful career in the global film industry.

Newswriting Basics Jschool Journalism College

Next Intake 5 December 2024

Newswriting Basics is a micro journalism course offered to senior secondary students this summer byJschool Journalism College.

Brent Street Summer Camp 2025

13-17 or 20-24 January

Kick off the new year at Australia’s biggest dance event this Summer! Join us in either week of our Summer Camp for 5 massive days of dancing, singing and acting at our world-famous studios. You’ll leave the workshop feeling inspired and pumped, ready to smash your dance goals for 2024! We welcome students from all studios across Sydney and Australia to enjoy our Summer Camp. It’s so much more than just dance classes; it’s an experience of making friends, a physical challenge and inspiring teachers!

Sydney Design School Info Session

26 November

Find out everything you need to know about our world class courses and personal support. Our Director, Amanda Grace will introduce you to our industry focused approach to learning. Our sessions are also streamed live online via Zoom. Register below to receive a link closer to the date of your Info Session.

Sydney Flight School - November Intake Applications Now Open

Apply Now for November Intake

Year 12 Students interested in becoming a pilot? Double Diploma & Commercial Pilot licenceAVI50222 Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilots Licence - Aeroplane) & AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation (Multi Engine Instrument Rating). The Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) is the minimum requirement to earn a living as apilot in Australia. You’ll start your training learning the fundamentals of flight in single engine aeroplanes such as the Piper Warrior, before progressing towards larger and more complex aircraft culminating in your CPL flight test being performed in the legendary Cessna 182T Skylane. We’ll arm you with all the non-technical and technical skills required to work in the industry as a professional pilot. No previous knowledge is required!

JMC Academy - Musical Theatre Audition Workshop

15 December

Join Australia’s Music Theatre industry and take to the stage in 2025.  

Join us for an exclusive Music Theatre Workshop led by the incredible Chloé Zuel!

This workshop is designed to elevate your performance skills, build your confidence, and help you create captivating characters for your upcoming auditions. You will have the unique opportunity to work directly with Chloé, known for her iconic role as ‘Eliza Hamilton’ in Hamilton, and engage in practical exercises that focus on vocal and movement techniques.

Throughout the session, you’ll participate in a dance and voice workshop and then, experience an exclusive Q&A with Chloé and our Head of Acting, Glen Hamilton. This session will help you explore effective audition strategies, develop your character creation skills, and receive tailored feedback to refine your performances. Chloé’s wealth of performance experience in productions such as Six the Musical Australia, West Side Story, Ragtime and more, will provide you with invaluable insights into the industry.

This is a free event for Year 12 students and those who have finished high school, looking to study Music Theatre next year!

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.

Australian College of Applied Professions Webinar - Counselling Information Session

19 November

Can you imagine yourself in child protection or helping people through grief or addictive behaviour? These are just a few career options you have with a qualification in Counselling.

In this real-time online information session Dr Timothy Hsi will share insights into studying Counselling at ACAP and highlight what courses you could take to help others develop better self-awareness for a more positive path in life.

Australian College of Applied Professions Webinar - Psychology Information Session

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.

ACAP Online Information Session - All About Work Integrated Learning at ACAP

28 November

Join us for an online session where you’ll learn about Work Integrated Learning (including the Placements Program) at ACAP. During this interactive session, we will delve into what is Work Integrated Learning,explore the courses in Counselling, Social Work, Psychology and Criminology that feature placement opportunities, discuss the program structure, and showcase the array of placement options available. You will also gain firsthand insights from professional organisations who will discuss the benefits they have gained by partnering with ACAP. Additionally, we will introduce you to ACAP alumni who will share their transformative placement experiences and the outcomes they’ve achieved following their placement.

Australian Institute of Music - Sydney Info Day

18 December

Deciding which path to take after school can feel daunting, but if you’re passionate about music, we’re here to guide you.

Our Sydney Info Day offers the perfect opportunity to get first-hand insights into what it’s like to study at AIM. Hear directly from current students about the skills they’ve gained and the networks they’ve built. If you’re thinking about studying with us in 2025, our expert staff can provide insights and answer your questions before UAC preferences close.

AIT Free Games Design Workshop

16 November 

Learn the foundations of level design and experience the power of Unreal Engine 5, the

industry-leading software used in market-topping video games like Fortnite. Also explore 3D level design and create a playable interactive game!

AIT Free Film Workshop

13 November 

Step into the spotlight at our upcoming Film workshop. Learn how to shoot scenes using a

greenscreen, with you at the centre! Get trained on scene structure, posing and compositing techniques as you star in your very own movie.

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.

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. 

Introduction to Directing Short Course at AFTRS

2-22 December

What does a director do?’ This introductory course delivered completely online will focus on the

responsibilities and workflow of the film and television director, from pre-production through to post-production. Taught by highly experienced Industry practitioners you’ll get an insight into this key role, and what makes a great director.

This course is delivered by Zoom Video in six evening sessions over three weeks.

AIBI Higher Education Virtual Open Day

14 November

Join AIBI HE at their virtual open day to meet the team and ask any questions you have about the bachelor’s degrees in cyber security and business and studying online. If you live remotely and are unable to make it to campus in person you can enrol in their online degree programs. Register using the link or contact domestic@aibihe.edu.au or 1300 23 77 41

The Hotel School Information Evening

13 November

Are you passionate about a career in hospitality, tourism, or events? Join us to explore how you can start an exciting global career!

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&A’s 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 are also welcome to attend.

AMPA Experience Day - Music Theatre and Classical Performance & Composition

14 November

Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) invites aspiring contemporary musicians and musiccreators 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 lifeof an AMPA music student to gain further insight into  tertiary education and how it can benefit your future.

General

Australian Federal Police PSO Online Information Session | 

Tuesday, 19 November 

Interested in a career that is both challenging and rewarding? Join this online information session and learn more about a career as a Protective Service Officer (PSO) with the AFP. Hear from a panel of PSOs as they share their experiences, opportunities, benefits and the process to join. Register now: 

EA Ski &Snowboard Job Offers Guaranteed with Training

We are now recruiting for paid ski & snowboard instructor jobs with full training provided for next season.Download your free Canada instructor brochure to find out how you can become an instructor at one of our world-class ski resorts.

Apply for Camp America 2024

Applications Open for 2025

Join 250,000 other counsellors who have used their skills to make a difference.

Camp America provides the opportunity to work as a camp counsellor in the USA. It’s more than just a job. It is your opportunity to effect change. Make a difference and join thousands of other people just like you, who have been part of the Camp America experience over the last 50 years.

Are you an Enterprising Girl?

Got a great idea that you don’t know what to do with? Enterprising Girls will give you the tools you need to turn that idea into a reality! The Academy for Enterprising Girls is a fun and exciting entrepreneurship program, available FREE to all young women in Australia aged 10 – 18, funded under the Australian Government’s Women’s Leadership and Development Program. The Academy is designed to cultivate young women’s skills in design thinking, entrepreneurial and business skills.

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.

Careers News Bulletin - 7 November 2024

Aged & Community Care Jobs In NSW

Aged care is a huge industry and it is expanding rapidly. Australia’s aged care workforce is expected to grow to over 800,000 by 2050, which means there are many, many opportunities for people to become involved. Community care services support people to live with dignity and independence in their own homes and to avoid social isolation. These services are aimed at the elderly and those who have mental illness, disability or are otherwise disadvantaged. AGED CARE entry-level job titles:

• Assistant in Nursing
• Home Care Worker
• Lifestyle Assistant
• Personal Care Assistant
• Residential Care Worker
• Undergraduate & Graduate Nurses

Melanie Bullock
Careers Advisor