As the festive season approaches, I would like to take a moment to reflect on a fantastic term at Belridge Secondary College.

Our Year 6 Transition Program has been a tremendous success, with many happy faces seen around the school as they prepare for their big move to the College in 2025. A big thank you to Rebecca Edmonds, Chadd Richardson, Ben Dawkins and Andrew Wright for organizing the transition events throughout the year. Their efforts have greatly supported our students and families, ensuring a smooth transition into high school life.

Earlier this term, the College hosted the JLC Year 5 Student Leadership Day. It was inspiring to see a room full of future leaders, all eager to voice their ideas and make positive changes. I look forward to welcoming them to Belridge Secondary College in the near future.

On Monday night we celebrated our Cricket and Netball presentation night at the WACA. It was a wonderful evening, and I want to thank Scott Ogilvie, Janneke Markovic, and Tarryn Hunt for organising the event and leading the programs. Special thanks also to Paul Bennet, Josh Hollows, and Conor Moldrich for their ongoing work with the specialist programs. A big thank you to our Board Chair and MC for the evening, Steve Hall.

Our Student Services team has had a remarkable year advancing our Positive Incentive Program (PIP). The end-of-term reward day, The Belridge Carnival, which was a huge success last year is planned for Week 10. The excitement is real, with  a high take up from our students to attend.  Thank you to Mr Richardson, Ms Currie, and Mr Dawkins for their leadership and commitment to supporting our students.

Our new $1.5M STEM building will be ready for the start of the 2025 school year.  This state-of-the-art facility will feature a Mechatronics lab and a dual-screen digital technology space. We eagerly anticipate seeing these new additions in action.

As you may have seen in my earlier communications via Connect, the College has made some changes to our College Reporting processes. Semester Two reports will no longer include Learning Area specific comments. Reports will still include Learning Area grades and student attributes, along with attendance and OLNA status (Year 10 only).  A general comment will be provided per year group outlining the scope of the study across Mathematics, English, Science and HASS.  As a College, we are committed to ongoing assessment and feedback throughout the school year. After each assessment, student marks will be uploaded onto Connect for parents/caregivers to view. Task mark reports will be provided to allow a more detailed understanding and comparison of marks. Our online Compass Pastoral Care System will keep you up to date with attendance, behaviour and positive comments as they arise. Along with our two parent-teacher nights per year, parents are encouraged to contact classroom teachers with any concerns. This can be done via Compass or email. Individual meetings are also available at your request.

As the year comes to a close, we bid farewell to several staff members who are retiring, moving to promotional positions, or exploring new opportunities. Farewell to Andrew Wright, Shannon McNamara, Rebecca Edmonds, Coralie Heberley and Rebecca Huntley. I wish them all the best in their future endeavours and thank them for their contributions to Belridge Secondary College over the years. We also have some staff taking some well-deserved leave; Tom Palmer, Noelene Hales, Rebecca Millett and Rob Robartson. Enjoy your time away.  

Finally, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated to our Belridge Christmas Hamper Appeal. This year, we supported over 20 families with hampers and gifts, making a significant difference to those in need. Thank you for helping to make Christmas a little brighter for our community.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Take care over the festive season and see you in 2025!

Mrs Sharon Lyon
Principal

Another eventful year has passed, filled with numerous activities and accomplishments. Thank you for all of the support from parents and caregivers throughout the year.  I hope you enjoy reading about your child’s academic progress in their Semester Two report, which will be sent to you during the last week of this term. Please take the time to discuss your child’s achievements this year and set realistic goals for 2025, along with strategies to help them achieve these goals throughout the year. Change and improvement does not happen without firstly identifying areas of need and responding in a positive manner. Success will come from a combination of positive wellbeing, effective study habits, and strong support from both home and school.

Year 6 Orientation Day

It was a pleasure to welcome the incoming Year 7 students on Tuesday, 3 December 2024, and to meet many parents in the evening. Students enjoyed their day in Form groups, making new friends and experiencing what a typical day at Belridge Secondary College entails. I look forward to seeing them again on Wednesday 5 February 2025, as they embark on their high school journey with us.

NAPLAN 2025 – Take Note!

NAPLAN for Year 7 and Year 9 students in 2025 is set for the period of Wednesday, 12 March to Monday, 24 March. Further details will be provided in the new school year.

Student Wellbeing Over the Holidays 

The extended summer break can be challenging for some young people, as it disrupts their usual routine and structure of school, extracurricular activities, and work. They may also miss the regular interaction with friends and teachers who support them at school. This can lead to feelings of boredom, lack of support, and sometimes anxiety. It is crucial to encourage your child to maintain their health and wellbeing during this holiday period.

There are several ways to support them, including:

• Eat Well: Encourage a balanced diet and moderate consumption of holiday treats.
• Sleep Well: Establish a healthy sleep routine, as adequate rest is essential for energy, focus, and motivation.
• Be Socially Active: Promote spending time with family and friends and participating in local events or holiday programs.

I wish you all a safe and joyous Christmas and the College looks forward to welcoming you back at the start of 2025 for another successful year at Belridge Secondary College.

Mr Andrew Wright
Deputy Principal – Years 7, 8 and 9

Year 12 Students 

Congratulations to Year 12 ATAR students for their conduct throughout the WACE exams. Feedback from the Invigilators was very positive. To be eligible for an offer, all relevant documents need to be uploaded by Wednesday, 11 December 2024.

Your UAAL, which includes your ATAR score and University offer will be available via your TISC student portal on Sunday, 15 December 2024. You will then have until Tuesday, 17 December  2024 to rearrange your preferences if need. I wish you well with your applications. 

Year 11 Students 

Congratulations for a fantastic finish to the year for Year 11 students. The feedback from employers of Workplace Learning students was outstanding. I know this has already led to employment opportunities for many students. 

Thank you to the students for returning to school to see your teachers and for completing the necessary work. This certainly helps for next year and for your WACE. 

To the ATAR students, well done for your conduct during the exams. All reports have now been made available on Connect and your predicted ATAR score is now available from Mr Cheeseman. A hard copy of these will be given out early next year. 

Students wishing to apply for a Study period will be able to do so at the start of Year 12. The criteria for a Study period is as follows; 

• Enrolled in 5 ATAR subjects in Year 12. 

• Enrolled in a Certificate course where you are off-grid one day a week. 

• Extenuating circumstances including medical reasons. 

Year 10 Students 

Well done to Year 10 students for finalising their Senior School Courses. I know there are a number of students who have secured either full-time employment or Apprenticeships for next year. I wish you well in your endeavours. I look forward to working with you next year as you follow your pathway to success. 

Merry Christmas to all students and their families. I hope you enjoy a well-earned break. 

Mr Louis Cheeseman
Deputy Principal - Years 10, 11 and 12 

Reporting a Student Absence in 2025

It is simple to report a students’ absence from school via the Compass App!

If you are aware your child will be away from school due to illness, an appointment, or other extenuating circumstances, please notify the school prior to the day or on the morning of the absence via the Compass App. 

The same process can occur if your child will be late to school or is required to leave early.

Phone calls can also be made to 9408 8034 to report an absence.

*Please note if the School Officer is busy at the time of your call, there is an option to leave a message.

Link to Compass Support;

A guide for parents & families | Compass Education AU

Year 8 Students Shine in The Minister’s Innovation Challenge 2024

Eight Year 8 students proudly represented Belridge Secondary College in The Minister’s Innovation Challenge 2024, a six-week program designed to inspire design thinking and entrepreneurial skills. This prestigious event saw only 40 schools selected to participate, making our students’ involvement an incredible achievement.

The challenge encouraged students to tackle a real-world issue within a chosen community. Our team focused on improving the outdoor court area of the school, recognising its potential to better serve students during recess and lunch. Through thoughtful brainstorming and collaboration, they developed innovative ideas such as adding shade coverage, seating, improved drink fountains, increased greenery, and more.

To ensure their solutions resonated with the wider school community, the team conducted surveys with students and interviewed staff. They also sought advice from professionals, including obtaining quotes from a sail shade manufacturer, and used AI-powered tools to create realistic visual renders of their vision for the upgraded space.

The Innovation Challenge followed a structured process, guiding students through five key stages:

Empathize – Understand the needs of the community.

Understand the Customer – Identify who would benefit and why.

Ideate and Validate – Generate ideas and confirm their value through research.

Prototype – Develop preliminary designs and solutions.

Pitch and Present – Share their vision in a compelling presentation.

This experience not only showcased the creativity and teamwork of our students but also demonstrated their ability to tackle real-world challenges with practical, forward-thinking solutions. Their hard work and innovation are a testament to the bright future ahead for our young changemakers.

Well done to our Year 8 Team for their outstanding contribution to the school and for setting a high standard of excellence in this prestigious competition!

Mr Alexander Winch
Teacher - Digital Technologies

Home Economics

The Year 9 Food for Others classes have finished off successfully this year by completing a unit in High Tea service. Students investigated the origins of High Teas and then worked with their partners to explore, devise and produce dishes suitable for serving.  They finished their task by sharing what they had made with the rest of the class to truly encapsulate the meaning of “Food for Others”.  Each group then had the opportunity to enjoy their own High Tea platter filled with a mixture of sweet and savoury dishes.

Mrs Micael Corless
Teacher – Home Economics

Be Waterwise

On Friday, 15 November 2024, Year 7 HASS students participated in the Waterwise Experience incursion, with the Water Corporation. The Waterwise Experience is an interactive, multi-sensory incursion, inspiring students on the topic of water sustainability. Students were led through three engaging narratives in a silent disco format, empowering them to take action and become sustainability ambassadors. We learnt that resources are finite, and we need to work together to preserve, restore and protect the uniqueness of our planet.

Mrs Claire Green
Teacher - Humanities and Social Sciences and AEP Coordinator

Year 9 Careers Program 
Lab Rats Excursion to Edith Cowan University

On Thursday, 28 November 2024, 31 Year 9 Academic Enrichment Program (AEP) students attended Edith Cowan University’s (ECU) annual Lab Rats event, held at the Joondalup campus. The excursion provided exposure to what life would be like completing an undergraduate Science degree at university. During the day students learnt about the importance of examining eDNA (Environmental DNA) to gather information about the natural environment - both practically and in a simulated game manner - discovered the importance of cyber security protocols and received information regarding pathways and course options for university study at ECU in 2028 and beyond. The College’s Career Practitioner, Ashley Mouritz and Year 9 AEP Science teacher, Joan Orr, were involved in planning and supervising the excursion.

At the beginning of the day were warmly met by current lecturers, tutors and post graduate students from the School of Science. Students made their way to a large lecture theatre where they were ‘welcomed to country’ and had the itinerary for the day explained to them. Some students had been in a university lecture theatre, with a seating capacity of 100s, but for some students it was the first time they had the opportunity to be exposed to the unique learning environment that exists at a university campus.

After a short introduction and induction, students participated in the ‘Great Race’, a 30-minute trek across the campus that required groups of students locating and noting various physical landmarks from across the campus. Each group admirably completed this task independently, with the assistance of a campus map. All students made it back to the checkpoint in time for their scheduled workshops for the day. The winning team was awarded a bag of ECU goodies, which went down well! At the conclusion of the day, students were informed of the many different study options available to them at ECU, on completion of their secondary studies. ECU staff commented on the impressive level of engagement and respect demonstrated by Belridge students. Hopefully involvement in the event assisted students to become more aware of the many study and career options they have once they transit to tertiary education.

Year 9 Career Program
Taster at Stanley College
A Day of Learning and Hands-On Experience

On Thursday, 21 November 2024, twelve Year 9 students had the exciting opportunity to attend a Career Taster at Stanley College, where they explored the healthcare industry through a series of practical workshops. 

The students learned crucial skills for working in healthcare settings, such as hands-on activities, allowing students to actively engage with real-world scenarios. They practiced life-saving techniques like CPR under expert guidance, understood the importance of infection control, learned how to safely move patients in a clinical environment and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).  

The experience provided valuable insight into the essential safety protocols and equipment used in healthcare settings. 

Overall, the students had a fantastic day, gaining new knowledge and skills that broadened their understanding of healthcare careers. The event inspired many students to consider a future in the medical field, and it was a great success in providing a fun and educational introduction to these important roles. We look forward to more career taster days that provide our students with hands-on experiences and career insights. Thank you to Ms Currie, who accompanied students on the excursion.

Mr Ashley Mouritz
Career Practitioner

Year 9 Career Program
Taster - Nursing

A group of Year 9 students recently participated in a healthcare-specific Career Taster at North Metro TAFE’s McLarty Campus in Joondalup. During this experience, students practiced essential hygiene measures, including the ‘donning and doffing’ of scrubs, removing staples from a simulated patient’s limb (using a pool noodle), administering medications, and taking patient vitals. These students, who have shown an interest in pursuing healthcare careers, received valuable and up-to-date information on healthcare opportunities and pathways from NM TAFE staff, who collectively have over 65 years of nursing experience. We extend our gratitude to NM TAFE for providing this wonderful experience and congratulate the students for their professional behaviour and natural ‘bedside manner’ with patients. This opportunity has given them a great insight into the healthcare field and its various career pathways.

Mr Adam Smith
Senior School Pathways 

Belridge SC and the AMA team up to offer a Cert III Allied Health Assistance

Belridge Secondary College is excited to announce a new partnership with the Australian Medical Association (AMA) to offer a fully funded Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance in 2025, exclusively for Year 12 students. 

The Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance prepares students for roles supporting allied health professionals, such as therapy and physiotherapy assistants, podiatry and speech pathology assistant. Tailored for a school pathway, the course equips students with essential skills for the health sector, including interpreting medical terminology, assisting with therapy programs, and maintaining infection control standards. Students will complete a 120-hour work placement, gaining hands-on experience in a health care setting. This course offers an excellent entry point into the healthcare industry for high school students, helping them gain a nationally recognised qualification with practical workplace skills.

Belridge SC students will be trained by experienced AMA staff and have access to state-of-the-art medical resources. They will also participate in semester-based visits to the AMA's facility in Joondalup, which features a simulated ward and world-class training resources.

Upon completion, students will be eligible for various health support roles, including aged care and disability care. They can also progress to the Certificate IV in Preparation for Health and Nursing Studies, which serves as a direct pathway to a Bachelor of Nursing degree at university.

We are grateful to the AMA for providing this wonderful opportunity and look forward to working with them and our first student cohort in 2025.

Mr Adam Smith 
Senior School Pathways 

VET and Workplace Learning

Workplace Learning

Belridge Secondary College had over 40 senior students participate in work placements during Weeks 6 and 7 of Term 4. The feedback from employers was excellent, with many students being offered part-time jobs and apprenticeships. Employers praised the students’ initiative, punctuality, and strong work ethic. These placements spanned various industries, including education support, retail, business administration, hospitality, sport and recreation, automotive, construction, surveying, and healthcare. Notably, two Year 11 students, who are completing a Certificate III in Population Health through the VETDSS Program, completed their placements at Royal Perth Hospital. This was a first for our students and has now provided a platform for future students interested in healthcare to follow in their footsteps.

In addition to the official Workplace Learning Program, many students also completed work experience with local employers in industries they are considering for their future careers.

We congratulate all the students who fully embraced the opportunities provided by the Workplace Learning Program. They represented the College excellently and made the school and local community proud. We are confident that these experiences will help them make positive choices and further explore their individual career pathways.

Matthew Earns Highly Commended Award for ABCN Accelerate Scholarship Application

We are delighted to announce that Matthew Kay (Year 10) has earned a Highly Commended Award for his application to the ABCN Accelerate Scholarship!

Despite not being selected for the full scholarship, Matthew’s application stood out among thousands of applicants, showcasing his hard work and creativity. This recognition is a testament to his dedication and effort. As part of his Highly Commended Award, Matthew will receive:

• A certificate of recognition.
• Access to the online Financial Firsts module.
• A $500 gift card for school supplies.

Matthew will complete the Financial Firsts program, which aims to equip students with essential financial skills. The program covers:

• Understanding how values and experiences influence money habits
• Setting SMART financial goals
• Creating a budget for the award
• Learning about different types of bank accounts and credit

We are incredibly proud of Matthew’s achievement and look forward to seeing him excel with these new opportunities. Congratulations, Matthew!

Any student from Year 11 that is interested in applying for one of these great opportunities are encouraged to come and speak with Mr Smith, Program Coordinator – Senior School Pathways, beforehand. 

ATSI - Seasons Project

Specialist Cricket Program 

Congratulations to former students Ethan Benson and Matthew Carroll who have both been selected to the WA U19's team to play in the National Championships.  Ethan and Matthew graduated from Belridge Secondary College in 2022.  We wish you both the very best. 

The school office will open next year from Wednesday 29 January 2025.

Details of arrangements for the first day will be published on our website via NEWS & EVENTS early in the new year. 

2025 Term Dates

School Development Days 2025

Uniform 2025

Uniform reminders...

• No hoodies/hooded jumpers are permitted
• Leggings must be navy blue
• Students involved in water based activities must wear shorts over their bathers.

See website for full details.

New Bell Times 

As from 2025 the College will implement new Bell times, with the following structure of the school day being as follows:

Booklists

Booklists have now been emailed/mailed, together with charges and contributions. Please contact the College as soon as possible if you have not yet received the same on (08) 9408 8000 or have any queries.  Booklists can also be found on our website under FUTURE STUDENTS. 

Bring Your Own Device

If you are yet to purchase your child's laptop and are unsure what you need to order, information can be found on our website including minimum computer specifications (to assist if you are buying direct yourself) or details on how to order online through our preferred supplier - CDM. 

School Photo Day 2025

Professional photos are scheduled on Thursday, 20 March and Friday, 21 March 2025. 

Secondary Assistance Scheme (SAS)

You may be eligible for up to $535 towards school expenses. The Western Australia Department of Education provides an allowance to assist eligible families with secondary school costs. 

Applications for the SAS open at the start of the 2025 academic year and close on Friday 11 April 2025. Applications must be made in person at the front office, together with one of the following cards:

• Centrelink Family Health Care Card
• Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card
• Veterans' Affairs Pensioner Concession Card (blue card)

Cards held must be current in Term 1, 2025 (on or after Wednesday, 5 February 2025).

Planning your school route for 2025

If you have a child heading to high school next year, use the Get on Board website to get them prepped for travelling on public transport. 

Go to www.getonboard.transperth.wa.gov.au to find out more. 

Tip!  Plan your route no more than two weeks out from the start of school term, using the Transperth Journey Planner (remember to change the date in the Journey Planner to the first day of school - Wednesday, 5 February 2025)

Services often change at the start of a school year. Journey planning less than two weeks out ensure you receive the most up-to-date information. 

The success of our Christmas Hamper appeal would not happen without the collaboration of many.  Thank you to all staff, students and families who contributed and made some families holiday season that much brighter. Our Elves (Student Councillors) assisted in the putting together hampers, along our amazing EA's and their creative wrapping skills. An extra special mention to Charlotte Cove (Year 11) who reached out to local businesses for donations. We also acknowledge and thank the following organisations for their support: 

Bella Mae - Haircut vouchers

Caitlin Collins MLA - assistance in promoting our campaign

Dominos, Beldon - Free pizza vouchers!

Simone (Manager) IGA, Craigie

Craigie Chemist - Beauty products

Foodbank

Rotary Club, Hillarys & Wanneroo

Christmas Hamper Appeal 2024

School Fees and Payments

Booklists and charges and contributions have now been emailed/mail.  Payments for student charges and contributions are welcome at any time. Please note that Upper School subject charges ARE COMPULSORY.

To set up a payment plan please download and complete the form and email to us or contact our Administration Team on (08) 9408 8000 - we are here to help.  See 'Preparing for 2025' article to see if you are eligilble for the Secondary Assistance Scheme, booklists etc., 

Payments can be made by cash or EFTPOS at the front office or Direct Deposit to our bank, details as follows:

Please ensure you quote as your reference STUDENT NAME and YEAR GROUP and PAYMENT DETAILS i.e. JOE SMITH Y11 REWARD FESTIVAL

Get Your Bucket Hats and Support Your House!

Belridge Secondary College introduced reversible bucket hats this year, in the three different colours of our Houses in Green, Blue and Yellow.  With the hot/sunny months ahead of us, please consider purchasing for your child and being sun smart.  The hats are also a great way of supporting your child's House and wearing at whole school events, for example our annual beach carnival - Belsurf - scheduled for 7 March 2025.  Our uniform shop also has details of which Form classes are in which House. 

CLICK HERE FOR HOUSE / COLOURS 2025

As 2024 draws to a close, Headspace are excited to host their final event for the year: the Fresh Start Fashion Market, a free secondhand femme fashion event aimed at supporting young people in our community. This event is proudly brought to you by headspace Joondalup and the Early Psychosis Program.  Details:

Date: Saturday, 21st December 2024

Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Drop in anytime!)

Location: Headspace Joondalup, 22 Reid Promenade, Joondalup

Who: Young people aged 12–25 who wear femme clothing

Reminder: Bring a bag to take home your goodies!

This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to refresh their wardrobes for free, embrace sustainable fashion, and connect with their community right before Christmas. To sign up, please visit: https://forms.office.com/r/zQR4zudXwh

Holiday Jump Start Program