After an engaging day of Staff Professional Learning last week, Term 3 has begun with a full list of activities and learning opportunities for our students. VCE Arts students visited the Heide Museum of Modern Art, VCE Biology students applied classroom learning at the Melbourne Zoo, while our runners impressed everyone at the State Cross Country Finals, to name just a few.

Kakadu Immersion – A Journey of Faith, Culture and Connection

Following their return from the Kakadu Immersion, our sixteen Year 9 students and accompanying staff have come home with memories, insights and experiences that will remain with them for many years to come.

Throughout the immersion, students were privileged to learn on Country, deepen their understanding of Aboriginal culture and history, and experience the unique beauty of Kakadu National Park. This immersion provided opportunities for students to step beyond the classroom, listen, reflect and grow through meaningful encounters with people, place and culture.

The immersion challenged students to embrace new perspectives, strengthen their relationships with one another and develop a deeper appreciation for the richness of Australia's First Nations peoples and traditions. Through shared experiences, conversations and reflection, students were encouraged to consider their place in the world and their responsibility to contribute positively to their communities.

We are incredibly proud of the way our students represented the College throughout the immersion. They demonstrated maturity, curiosity, respect and a willingness to engage wholeheartedly in every aspect of the experience. A sincere thank you to Mr Kieren Prowse and Ms Stephanie Donnellon for their leadership, care and commitment in making this immersion possible. Their dedication ensured a safe, enriching and transformative experience for all involved.

We also extend our thanks to the local communities and World Expedition Schools who generously shared their knowledge, stories and hospitality. The impact of these experiences will undoubtedly continue to shape our students' understanding and appreciation of faith, culture and community long into the future.

This year's Kakadu Immersion was truly an amazing experience—one that strengthened connections, broadened horizons and embodied the spirit of learning, service and faith that lies at the heart of our College community.

Jobe Hutchinson: “I really enjoyed our day trips to the waterfalls and getting to learn about the local laws and rules the Aboriginal people must follow, and how different their way of life is to ours”.

Ruby Hogan: “During the Kakadu Immersion, I enjoyed spending time with people I wouldn’t usually talk to. I also enjoyed being able to see the beautiful nature and wildlife of Kakadu. Being a part of the Kakadu Immersion helped me to learn about the importance of different cultures and respecting their connection to land”.

Community Generosity Supports McAuley Services for Women

Throughout Term 2, the Catherine McAuley College Bendigo community demonstrated the Mercy values of compassion and service by generously donating items for McAuley Care Packs. These care packs will be distributed through McAuley Services for Women, an organisation that supports women and children who have experienced family violence and homelessness, helping them to rebuild their lives with dignity, safety and hope.

The response from students, staff and families was outstanding, with a wonderful collection of essential items donated across the College. Every contribution will make a meaningful difference to those facing significant challenges.

A special congratulations goes to Mercy Homegroup 8J, who donated the greatest number of items during the collection drive. Their outstanding generosity and commitment to supporting others exemplify the spirit of our College community.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this important initiative. Together, we are making a positive difference in the lives of women and children in our local community.

Subject Selection - Pathway Counselling Meetings underway

On Tuesday 21 July, Pathway Counselling Meetings for Year 10 into 11 students commenced at St Mary's Campus. These important conversations provide students and their families with the opportunity to discuss future pathways, review career aspirations and finalise subject selections for Year 11.

This process forms a valuable part of supporting students as they transition into their final important years of schooling. Through individual meetings, students have been able to explore the subjects and programs that best align with their interests, strengths and post-school goals, ensuring they are well prepared for the opportunities ahead.

We thank the many families who have already attended their interviews and engaged in these meaningful discussions with staff.

Pathway Counselling Meetings will continue on Friday, 7 August, for our current Year 9 students as they prepare to finalise their subject selections for next year. A reminder to parents/carers to please book your meetings if you have not done so through PAM.

Subject Selection choices are due to be submitted by Friday 7 August.

Compulsory Pathway Counselling meetings for students currently in Years 9 and 10 are scheduled in Term 3.

Attendance at these meetings is compulsory for both the student and their parent or carer.

• Subject selections for 2027 will be submitted during this meeting.
• Subject selections must be approved and signed by the attending parent or carer.
• This meeting is a key opportunity to collaborate and plan your child’s senior pathway.
• Pathway Counselling meeting bookings can be made with any teacher who has availability at a time that suits. We encourage you to book your meeting time promptly to ensure availability.

These meetings are a vital part of planning and supporting your child’s senior school journey.

Year 9 Pathways and Transition Encounter Day at St Mary’s

On Wednesday 22 July, our Year 9 students participated in a valuable Pathways and Transition Encounter Day at St Mary's. The day was designed to support them as they begin making important decisions about their future learning pathways and prepare for the transition to a new campus.

Students were provided with the opportunity to explore the wide range of subjects and opportunities available to them in the years ahead, while also helping them become more familiar with the St Mary's campus environment.

Throughout the day, students engaged in a variety of informative and interactive sessions. They attended career presentations that highlighted different pathways and future possibilities, encouraging them to think about their interests, strengths and aspirations. Students also took part in a guided campus tour, allowing them to gain a greater understanding of the facilities, learning spaces and opportunities available at St Mary's.

A highlight of the day was hearing from a student panel, where current students shared their personal experiences and insights. Their authentic reflections provided reassurance and answered many questions about life at the campus, helping Year 9 students feel more confident and excited about the transition process.

This excursion was an important step in supporting students as they navigate both subject selection and their transition to a new learning environment. By providing firsthand experiences, practical information and opportunities for reflection, the day empowered students to make informed decisions about their future studies and approach the next stage of their educational journey with confidence.

We thank the staff and students at St Mary's for hosting such an engaging and informative day and look forward to supporting our Year 9 students as they continue to explore their pathways for the years ahead.

Year 9 into Year 10 2027 students

Compulsory Pathway Counselling meetings are scheduled for Friday 7 August. Bookings will open for these meetings on Tuesday 14 July. This will be a pupil-free day for all Year 9 students.

Book a meeting:

• Friday 7 August (Pupil-free day for Year 9 students)

All meetings will be held at St Mary’s Campus in St Mary’s Hall. Please enter via the gate into the St Mary’s Courtyard, located on the corner of Barkly Street and Barkly Terrace West (refer map below).

Welcome to Year 8 Term 3 and the middle of winter. We hope that you had a very restful and warm winter break.

Welcome to New Staff

Some people may notice that their child has a new teacher in class; this may be due to having a new member of staff. Please welcome:

• Ms Natahsha Turpie
• Mr Spencer Spielvogel
• Miss Emma Naylor

They bring much enthusiasm and dedication to the role.

Subject Selection Updates and Timelines:

Your child received a subject selection handout last Wednesday. This was discussed with your child in a Year 8 online briefing on Wednesday morning and again during assembly on Thursday morning. Please carefully read through the information for subject selections and subject-specific detail. In addition, all information is available through the SIMON platform on your child’s laptop.

Key dates for subject selection:

• Week 1: 15th July - paper form distributed
• Weeks 1 and 2: students talk it over with parents and look up all the options. Students should speak to Mercy Homegroup Teachers, Year Level Learning Leader Mrs Snyman, and subject teachers
• End of Week 2: web preferences emailed on Friday 24 July
• End of Week 4: web preferences close on Friday 7 August

Sheep and Wool Show

Last week, Year 8 and Year 9 Agri Futures students were involved in the Australian Sheep and Wool Show, competing in the sheep showing categories. We cannot wait to hear all the fun they had and any results that have come our way.

Term Highlights and reminders

The lunchtime Drawing Club is on every Thursday in MYG-15

Healthy Mates Peak Performance Program - Term 3 has commenced in runs from Monday 20 July to Wednesday 16 September on Monday and Wednesday mornings from 7:30 - 8:30 am at the MJSP.

Book Week from 22 to 28 August. Keep an eye out for fun activities run through the Library.

Mercy Works is the fundraising focus throughout Term 3.

Mercy Day will be held on the last day of Term 3 - Friday 18 September. Now is the time to start planning your costume in your House colour.

Uniform Requirements

Please remember that your child needs to wear their academic uniform on non-PE days. This involves wearing the College blazer and tie to and from school as well as to the first three classes until Break 1.

Thanks to Pip Allan for wearing the uniform correctly.

Mrs Hayley Lethlean, Mr Josh Hann and Mrs Marine Snyman

Our Year 9 Students continue their planning for 2027

As our Year 9 students begin planning for the next stage of their learning journey, a reminder that Year 10 2027 subject selections must be completed in preparation for the Subject Selection Counselling Meeting on Friday 7 August. Please ensure that all required sections are completed and that all parent/carer and student signatures are included before 7 August.

Students are encouraged to take the time to carefully review their Semester 1 report and the feedback provided by their teachers. These comments offer valuable insights into strengths, areas for growth, and recommendations that can help inform subject choices for Year 10. Drawing on this feedback will assist students in selecting subjects that align with their interests, abilities, and future aspirations.

Year 10 Transition Excursion

Our Year 10 Transition Excursion to St Mary's on Wednesday was a fantastic success. Students engaged positively throughout the day and gained valuable information about senior school pathways, subject options, and future opportunities. The feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting that the experience helped them better understand the choices available to them and the pathways they may wish to pursue.

We thank the staff at St Mary's for their hospitality and support, and congratulate our Year 9 students on the mature and respectful manner in which they conducted themselves. The excursion provided a great deal of valuable information and insight that will assist students as they make important decisions about their future studies.

Subject selections are due by Friday 7 August, so we encourage families to continue discussions at home and complete the process before the deadline.

Mr Stephen Evans, Mrs Jo Tobin and Mr Dean Carmody

iGEN Learning- A lifetime of opportunities

This is a great time to look back on the exciting finish to Semester 1 in the iGEN Learning program.

Meaningful connections and days filled with collaborative joy will be remembered long into the future, complemented by personal growth and increased confidence for all.

Intergenerational connections with our Mercy Health residents continue to broaden our community, allowing our students to thrive and to serve.

On Monday 22 June, CMCB had the honour of hosting the annual Legacy Public Speaking Contest for the Bendigo Region. 

Students were asked to compose a speech on the ideals of voluntary service, social justice, caring, personal effort, personal sacrifice, and/or mateship, and the importance of remembrance. All the students involved did an amazing job and were very confident in their speech delivery.

We are delighted to announce that CMCB student, Bohdi Jakubik placed runner-up. Equal first place was shared between Harriet Carson and a student from Bendigo South East College.

Harriet will be going through to the state finals in Ballarat in September. We wish her well.

On Wednesday 21 July, students in VCE Unit 2 and 4 Art Making and Exhibiting explored the Heide Museum of Modern Art. 

The Unit 2 students looked at how artworks are exhibited in themes. They had a wonderful tour led by Tour Volunteer Heather, who introduced the students to how stories are told in exhibitions. 

The Unit 4 students had a targeted talk looking at conservation and presentation of artworks.

Students are using this information to prepare for class assessments and to create personal artworks for their own artwork that they will present at an exhibition at the end of the term.

Our excited group of Unit 2 Biologists visited the Melbourne Zoo on Wednesday 15 July. 

Students actively participated in workshops where they studied the amazing Southern Corroboree frog and connected their learning to concepts such as biodiversity, adaptations, threats and conservation strategies for this critically endangered amphibian. 

Students also practised their observational and data-collection skills in the butterfly enclosure and spent time analysing enclosures using bioethical approaches and concepts.

Learning Beyond the Classroom - Penning Day

Twenty of our Year 8 and Year 9 students rolled up their sleeves last week to help set up for the Australian Sheep and Wool Show right here in Bendigo.

From preparing exhibition areas to supporting event logistics, students gained valuable insights into the agricultural industry while contributing to a major community event.

Agricultural shows provide an important platform for young people to engage with agriculture, discover career pathways, and develop practical skills that can't always be learned in the classroom.

Well done to our students for their hard work, teamwork and positive attitude.

Grand Champion Success at the Australian Sheep & Wool Show!

Catherine McAuley College Bendigo is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Show Team at this year's Australian Sheep and Wool Show in Bendigo.

Over the three-day event, six dedicated students represented the College with enthusiasm, professionalism and a passion for agriculture. Their hard work and commitment resulted in our most successful showing to date, highlighted by winning the prestigious Grand Champion Polwarth Ewe award to an ewe under 1½ years and full milk teeth.

This remarkable achievement reflects the dedication of our students and the strength of our agricultural program.

Agricultural shows provide valuable real-world learning opportunities, connecting students with agriculture, science and industry in meaningful and practical ways. Through preparing, exhibiting and judging livestock, students develop skills in animal husbandry, communication, teamwork and problem-solving while gaining firsthand insight into career pathways and the importance of Australia's agricultural sector.

We extend our sincere thanks to Fairview Polwarth for their ongoing partnership and support. Their expertise, guidance and generosity have played an important role in providing our students with authentic learning experiences and opportunities to achieve success at the highest level.

Congratulations to our Show Team on their exceptional results and for representing Catherine McAuley College Bendigo with pride throughout the event.

A jacket designed by Barbara McLean ODonovan (Class of 1982) has been worn at fashion events in Sydney and New York this week by international fashion expert, Jude Kingston.

Geraldton artist, Barbara O’Donovan, who started designing bedding, haberdashery and wallpaper, recently started designing clothing.

“Our home was full of beautiful old religious prints and full-size church statues,” she recalls, explaining how her Catholic upbringing in Bendigo influences her work, which often features flora and fauna, as well as vintage religious imagery.

After attending a global sourcing event for designers in Sydney last year, Barbara met long-time fashion industry guru Jude Kingston, who mentors and collaborates with designers and fashion entrepreneurs to bridge the gap between creative vision and product development.

Jude Kingston was impressed with Barbara’s work, finding it “unique and individual”. She asked Barb if she could wear one of her creations to some fashion events.

After Jude posted photos of herself wearing a Barbara O’Donovan passenger coat in New York and Sydney and tagged her in the post, Barb has had an influx of online orders from across the world and a massive surge in social media followers.

“When I first put the original design out for the passenger coat, it actually went viral overnight,” Barbara said.

Her recent success comes from decades of hard work. “It's a lot of work, and you just have to believe in yourself and love what you do, or else no one else is going to love it.”

Barbara was one of the artists who recently took part in the Jubilee Community Art Show as part of our Sesquicentenary celebrations. Her artwork, ‘Convent Light’, a digital print on cotton rag, was quickly snapped up in the incognito show.

In her artist statement, she said, “The face, partially obscured and softened, echoes the religious iconography that surrounded me as a child—the saints, the statues, the paintings lit by candlelight. There was always a melancholy to them. Not sadness exactly, but a quiet knowing. A stillness. That feeling has stayed with me and continues to shape my work.”

Barbara was recently interviewed by the ABC for the Midwest and Wheatbelt program and has been invited to present her first collection, featuring her signature dark botanicals, on the runway at New York Fashion Week in September.

The next event on the Sesquicentenary calendar is the Gala Dinner on 5 September. Tickets are now on sale.

SESQUICENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

Throughout 2026, we have been celebrating and honouring the pioneering spirit of the founding Sisters and the thousands of children and educators who have been part of the Mercy story.

There is one community event left, and we invite you to organise your friends, book your ticket and look forward to a walk down memory lane and the rekindling of old friendships as we give thanks for the past and future success of CMCB.

• Sesquicentennial Gala Dinner | Saturday 5 September

This term Elevate Education delivers high-impact workshops to our students that help to develop their study skills, motivation, and exam preparation. You're invited to join their parent webinar series, where you can help support your child at home by reinforcing the skills they're learning at school. Register via link below.

Term 3 Webinars

1. How to Get (And Keep!) Your Child Motivated – 5 August 6:30pm 
2. How to Help Your Child Improve Their Note Taking – 19 August 6:30pm
3. How You Can Make Technology an Ally (& Not the Enemy!) – 2 September 6:30pm 
4. How You Can Support Your Child During Exams – 16 September 6:30pm 

Register for Elevate Education Term 3 Webinars

Register for Elevate Education Term 3 Webinars and learn some great practical strategies to help support your child this year.

ABOUT Elevate Study Skills Program

Within the classroom, CMCB has implemented the Elevate Education study skills program, grounded in seventeen years of global research into student performance. Elevate has identified the habits that distinguish top-performing students, and its seminars and resources are designed to help students of all abilities adopt these habits. This leads to more effective learning outcomes and improves overall academic performance. Students sequence through all of the program across Years 11 and 12.

SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - STATE FINAL

CROSS COUNTRY

On Thursday 16 July, 14 students from Catherine McAuley College Bendigo travelled to the Yarra Valley Racing Club to compete in the School Sport Victoria State Cross Country Finals. Students represented the College against the strongest runners from across Victoria after progressing through the divisional and regional stages of competition.

The course was revised for 2026, with competitors running on the trotting track down the finishing straight rather than on the grass to provide a firmer surface underfoot.

Congratulations to Lyla Edwards, who achieved a podium finish in the 13 Year Girls event, placing 3rd with a time of 11:27.110. Lyla was closely followed by Milanke Haasbroek, who finished 4th in 11:34.610. Their strong performances have earned both girls selection in the School Sport Victoria State Team.

Flynn Todd also produced an outstanding result, placing 10th in the 14 Year Boys event with a time of 10:52.953, while Poppy Carter finished 18th in the 14 Year Girls competition.

All students should be congratulated on reaching the State Final level and representing the College. Competing against Victoria's best school-aged runners is a significant achievement.

RESULTS:

13 Year Girls

• Lyla Edwards 3rd - 11:27.110
• Milanke Haasbroek 4th - 11:34.610
• Darcy Rodda 62nd - 13:44.103
• Emerson Arundell 78th - 14:17.923

13 Year Boys

• Wilbur Ferguson 89th -13:53.347

14 Year Girls

• Poppy Carter 18th - 12:36.740
• Macaila Bannan 49th - 13:31.793
• Emily Harris 74th - 14:20.513

14 Year Boys

• Flynn Todd 10th - 10:52.953

15 Year Boys

• Jensen McDonnell 50th - 11:15.207
• Byron Martin 53rd - 11:15.707

16 Year Girls

• Alexis Arundell 23rd - 13:25.723
• Erin Bradshaw 71st - 15:27.097

16 Year Boys – 5Km Course

• Quinlan Cody 74th - 20:40.780

Thank you to the parents and extended family members who attended the event and supported our team throughout the day. The students greatly appreciated your encouragement. It has been wonderful to watch these athletes progress through each stage of competition and represent Catherine McAuley College Bendigo so positively. We congratulate all students on their achievements and wish Lyla and Milanke every success as they prepare to represent the School Sports Victoria State Team.

CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL DISCOUNT

A Catholic Primary Discount of $150.00 applies to families that have two or more children at Catherine McAuley College Bendigo (CMCB) and are paying Catholic primary school fees. This will be applied to fee accounts in Term 3.

Please complete the form linked below and have the Principal of the primary school your child/children attend authorise this application.

Reports for students in Years 7 to 12, 2026 (Semester 1) are now available on PAM.

Log in to PAM

The Peak Performance Program is running again for Term 3, 2026. 

This enhanced program is designed to help Years 7, 8, and 9 students build strength, improve fitness, and develop healthy training habits in a safe and supportive environment. Our qualified therapists will guide students through proper techniques, ensuring they gain confidence and maximise their results.

Benefits of the Program: ✔ Increase strength and endurance ✔ Boost self-esteem and confidence ✔ Learn lifelong fitness skills ✔ Increase resilience to injuries to stay injury-free.

Whether your child is an aspiring athlete or simply looking to improve their fitness, this program is the perfect opportunity to get started on their health journey.

When & Where:

• Dates: Monday 20 July – Wednesday 16 September
• Location: Mercy Junortoun Sporting Precinct at CMCB
• Times: Monday and Wednesday mornings 7.30-8.30am

SESQUICENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

Throughout 2026, we have been celebrating and honouring the pioneering spirit of the founding Sisters and the thousands of children and educators who have been part of the Mercy story.

There is one community event left, and we invite you to organise your friends, book your ticket and look forward to a walk down memory lane and the rekindling of old friendships as we give thanks for the past and future success of CMCB.

• Sesquicentennial Gala Dinner | Saturday 5 September

ALUMNI - ONLINE PLATFORM

As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance and strengthen the CMCB Alumni community for the long term, all past students are invited to join our Alumni network for improved engagement opportunities and a more enriching experience that is fun and private. The new platform provides endless opportunities to connect, engage, reminisce and stay informed. It will be the main way to promote upcoming events and reunions.

Other Reunions in 2026

Class of 1976 50-Year Reunion (SMC & MBC)
Saturday 3 October
Shamrock Hotel Bendigo

Class of 1991 35-Year Reunion
Saturday 24 October at 7pm
Rifle Brigade Hotel, View Street, Bendigo

Class of 1996 30-Year Reunion
Saturday 17 October
Details to be confirmed

Class of 2006 20-Year Reunion
Saturday 3 October
Details to be confirmed

Class of 2016 10-Year Reunion
Details to be confirmed

Immunisations sessions at Catherine McAuley College Bendigo for Year 7 and Year 10 are on:

• Year 7: Thursday 30 July 2026
• Year 10: Thursday 6 August 2026

Year 7 and Year 10 families need to register their child for their immunisations

Please download the relevant information below.

The College has been advised by the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) that changes are being made to School Town Special buses from the start of Term 3. This will apply to several buses on the Urban Bus Network. The changes are designed to improve services by increasing capacity and efficiency to meet growing demand.

More information, including updated timetables and maps, is included in the attached letter.

The Country Bus, CMCB Charter Bus and Castlemaine Bus Networks will not be affected by these changes and will continue to run as normal.

Key Dates for 2026

Important dates for your calendar, including Pupil Free Days, camps and major College events. Click on the link below and download the poster for the current term.

Information is correct at the time of publication, but families are advised to log in to the Parent Access Module (PAM) for the latest College Calendar updates.

Class Times 2026

The 2026 College Home Handbook is now available. 

This comprehensive resource has been designed to support all our families by outlining the wide range of opportunities our College provides. Inside, you will find clear information about our academic and pastoral programs, as well as easy access to key policies, procedures, and helpful links.

The Handbook aims to assist families in understanding how we support students at every stage of their learning journey, from their first day through to their senior years. It brings together the essential details you may need across all year levels, ensuring you feel informed, supported, and connected with College life.

We warmly encourage you to take the time to read through this document and download a copy as a reference throughout the year.

Mrs Suzie Kemp and Mr Len Watson, Assistant Principal Campus Directors

“Families and the College working together always builds stronger partnerships.

In Terms 2 and 3, all students wear the winter academic uniform, with exceptions granted on days designated for specialist or co-curricular activities where the sport uniform is approved.

Students are required to wear the correct sports uniform on their designated sports days. This includes the approved sports top and correct tracksuit pants. Students who wear an incorrect sports uniform will receive a uniform infringement.

On all other school days, students are expected to wear their full academic uniform, including their blazer.

We appreciate your support in maintaining high standards of uniform, which contributes to a sense of pride and belonging within our school community.

To ensure clarity, we’ve summarised key aspects of the uniform expectations in the Uniform Update linked below.

Please note:

• The College blazer is a compulsory winter uniform item and is worn as a top layer (with or without the jumper underneath).
• Blazers must be worn to and from school in Terms 2 and 3. At school, blazers are to be worn for Mercy Homegroup and classes through to recess. After this, they can be stored in students' lockers for the rest of the day if they are too hot. The blazer does not need to be worn during break times.
• Students must wear the College tie and appropriate leather lace-up shoes with academic uniform, rather than sports shoes.
• Long sleeve or short sleeve shirts to be worn, tucked in.
• Long pants or shorts may be worn.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT UNIFORM IN PAM

• Log in to Parent Access Module PAM for the Student Code of Conduct and Uniform Policy, or visit the Uniform page on the College website.

As a school community, we remain committed to providing a safe, supportive, and focused learning environment for every young person in our care. In recent years, personal digital devices have become an increasingly prominent part of students’ lives – particularly for students in Years 7 to 9 - and with this has come a range of challenges for schools and families.

The Federal Government has recently implemented a social media ban for children under the age of 16, aimed at protecting young people. However, currently, many students’ daily online behaviours remain unchanged.

UPDATED ARRANGEMENTS AT COOLOCK FROM TERM 2

In response, and to better support student wellbeing, learning, and safety, Coolock will be implementing small, but important adjustments to the Student Use of Personal Digital Devices (PDD) Policy and Procedure, effective from the start of Term 2.

These changes apply only to students at Coolock and do not apply to students at St Mary’s.

The updated Policy, Procedure, FAQs, and a student poster are linked belowfor your reference.

What we are seeing in Years 7–9

In these year levels, we are experiencing:

• A significant increase in online bullying occurring during school hours, often through hidden messaging apps
• Unauthorised photos, videos, and recordings being taken and shared without consent
• Students filming incidents rather than seeking support from staff
• Social conflicts escalating as messages sent during class or breaks impact learning time

These behaviours can have serious emotional, social, and legal consequences for young people.

Reducing access to personal devices during the school day supports students to:

• Focus on learning
• Build healthier friendships
• Feel less anxious
• Take a break from constant online pressures
• Engage more fully in real‑world conversations and experiences

Key adjustments for families and students

A PDD includes mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, wireless or Bluetooth headphones/earbuds, and any emerging voice or data device that connects to a commercial mobile telecommunications service.

From Term 2

• Students must not enter the Coolock campus with phones in hand; Personal digital devices must be in bags on arrival.
• Phones must be locked in lockers upon arrival and remain there for the entire school day. These are to be switched off.
• Students may access their phones only at the end of the school day.

Our partnership with families

We appreciate your support as we implement these changes. We ask parents and carers to:

• Talk with your child about responsible and respectful device use.
• Reinforce the seriousness of recording others without permission.
• Support the school when devices are restricted or removed.
• Model healthy digital habits at home.
• Trust the school to manage student safety and wellbeing during the school day.

Together, these measures will help create a calmer, safer, and more focused learning environment for all students.

Sandpiper E-News

Sandpiper e-News is the official communication platform for the Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst. It features news from the Bishop, the Chancery, the Mission and Pastoral Life Team, parishes, schools and Catholic entities across the Diocese of Sandhurst.