Parent Newsletter - Bendigo Senior Secondary College

ISSUE 2 

BENDIGO SENIOR SECONDARY COLLEGE 

Parent Newsletter 

Inside This Issue 

1 Principal’s News 

2 Old Gold – Student Reunions 

3 Parking and Traffic 

3 Parents & Friends Forums 

4 Who to Contact 

5 Pool Party 

6 Student Attendance 

7 Student Council 

7 German Exchange 

8 Greece and Italy Study Tour 

8 Curriculum 

10 Student Wellbeing 

11 Young Carers Scholarships 

11 Cultural Diversity Week 

13 International Program 

14 Indigenous Homew’k Centre 

14 New Arrival Student Program 

16 Student Profile 

17 Brave New World at BSSC 

18 Library 

18 Pathways and Careers 

20 MIPS 

21 Sport @ BSSC 

23 Insights – Michael Grose 

25 Advertisements 

Upcoming Events 

1/3 P&F Forum – Study Skills & 

Learning Styles 

2/3 Special Exam arrangements 

- applications close 

21/3 P&F Forum – Ultranet 

19/3 Cultural Diversity Week 

begins 

30/3 Term 1 Ends – Altered Day 

March 2012 

Principal’s News 

Performing Arts Centre and Theatre 

Planning for the construction of the $25.8m Performing Arts Centre, 

Theatre and Foods facility on the grounds of the old Bendigo gaol is 

continuing. This project is being undertaken in partnership with the 

City of Greater Bendigo. Our timeline has construction commencing 

in the last quarter of this year and concluding in the second half of 

2014. 

Parents will already be aware of the benefits this project will bring 

not just to the college but to the city. The new college facilities for 

Music, Dance, Drama, Foods and Canteen will add significantly to 

what we offer our students. The 1000-seat theatre at the centre of 

the development will be widely used by other schools, educational 

institutions and performing arts groups. It will provide Bendigo and 

central Victoria with access to a range of performances which the 

Capital Theatre cannot accommodate. 

We have strong in principle support for the project from Heritage 

Victoria which can see the benefit of finding an adaptive re-use for a 

facility which will have great interest for visitors but is otherwise at 

risk of falling into disrepair. 

Later this month we expect that the application for a planning permit 

for this project will be made public. There will be a range of publicity 

in the next few weeks which focuses on the design and functionality 

of the theatre. We will add much of this to our college website. I 

encourage you to offer your support for this project in your 

conversations with others in the community. 

Specialist Sport Dinner 

The college community will be aware that we have introduced a 

Specialist Sports program at BSSC this year. On the evening of 

Saturday April 21 we will be holding a dinner at the All Seasons to 

launch this program and make its features widely known in the 

Bendigo sporting community. An impressive list of guest speakers will 

enhance the evening. Ticketing details will be made public in the 

coming weeks. 

Accident Insurance 

I wish to remind parents that BSSC does not carry insurance for 

accidents to students. Parents are encouraged to seek such cover 

themselves if they deem it necessary. I also encourage parents to 

consider ambulance cover where appropriate.

PAGE 2 


Review of School Funding 

The long awaited Gonski Review of school funding has been delivered to the commonwealth government. The 

review recommends sweeping changes to the way in which schools are funded and has been well received across 

all school sectors. The problems in the current funding arrangements are well understood: 

The gap in educational attainment between high and low performing students in Australia is widening and this 

will generate long term social and economic problems for our nation. 

Overall educational performance in Australia, while strong by international standards, is declining in relative 

terms. 

There is little transparency in funding, particularly because there is no alignment between what the states and 

the commonwealth provide to schools. 

There are low levels of equity in the current systems. In particular, funding for students with disabilities, 

indigenous students and low socio economic students are inadequate. 

Increases in commonwealth funding to non-government schools over the last decade have generally not 

resulted in lower school fees and as such have not enhanced choice for families. 

There is no consistent and reliable measure of student background and family circumstances, which is critical 

in determining funding levels for schools. 

Our college welcomes the recommendations which seek to address these issues. In particular, the suggested 

provision of a base level of funding for all students identified through a consistent measuring tool is very 

promising. Ideally we would not like to see any student or any school in any educational system, government or 

non-government, disadvantaged as a result of any changes to funding. The proposed $5b annual funding increase 

would overwhelmingly be applied to the government sector. There are significant steps our college could take to 

improve opportunities and outcomes for our students with the additional funding being proposed. In addition to 

our continued focus of improving teaching quality, this funding would allow us to direct resources where they are 

really needed. 

The government has indicated its intention to consult widely before legislating change this year. We will watch 

developments with great interest. 

Student Council 

Congratulations to the following students who have been elected to the Executive Committee of the BSSC 

Student Council for 2012: 

President - Oscar Thomas 

Vice President - Abigail Trewartha 

Secretary- Rory McCormick 

Treasurer - Ebony Jade-Jones 

Publicity Officers - Elley Burgess and Phoebe Snep 

Our Student Council plays an important role in advocacy, policy formulation, event organisation and fundraising. I 

am delighted to see the continued growth and enthusiasm among Student Council members and I look forward to 

the contribution they will make to the college in 2012. 

Dale Pearce, Principal 

Old Gold - Student Reunions 

BHS 1974-1979 

Annual Reunion 

Saturday 28 April 2012 

50th Birthday Celebration! 

BHS 1972-1977 

40th Reunion 

May 2012 

Contact: Wendy Talbot (O'Neill) Ph 5449 6176 wendytalbot@bigpond.com 

Our ROLE is to empower learners for individual, community and global leadership. 

We value: Respect, Optimism, Learning, Environment

PAGE 3 


Dropping off and picking up students 

Parents, carers and students are asked not to enter Gaol Road or School Road to drop off or collect students. 

Gaol Road is a no stopping area and you may be fined, even if only stopping momentarily. Cars entering these 

roads make it dangerous for pedestrians in these areas. ONLY taxis and cars displaying a disabled permit are to 

use the semi-circular road in front of the former goal as a drop off area. Please use the drop off bays available in 

Park Road or Barnard St where students can be dropped off safely and then walk to the college. Parents are asked 

not to drive onto school property to drop off students and students are not permitted to park on college grounds. 

Parents & Friends Forums 

Each year we run a range of forums for parents and carers to help inform you about how you might best support 

your student throughout their VCE or VCAL program. We invite you to come along to these sessions to learn more 

about the areas advertised below and to provide you with a forum to discuss ideas about how we can best 

support our students. Our program of forums for 2012 is shown below. 

Date Venue Topic 

Thursday 1 March, 7.30pm Library Study Skills and Learning Styles 

Wednesday 21 March, 7.30pm Multimedia Centre Ultranet 

Tuesday 1 May, 7.30pm Library Sleep and Wellbeing 

Thursday 17 May, 7.30pm Library GAT and ATAR Scores 

Tuesday 24 July, 7.00pm James King Hall Accommodation Expo 

Monday 6 August, 7.00pm James King Hall VTAC Presentation 

Wednesday 29 August, 7.30pm Library Understanding the SEAS process and scholarships 

Tuesday 16 October, 7.30pm Library Exam tips and strategies 

Linda Lyons, Assistant Principal – Student Engagement and Wellbeing 



PAGE 4 

Who to Contact . . . Student Coordinators 


At the start of the year students are placed in an Advisor Group within a Sub 

ACollege which is linked to a Student Coordinator. 

t 

The Student Coordinator is primarily responsible for the coordination of 

tcourse planning, attendance and the academic progress of students within the 

hPathway Community. 

e 

Parents and carers are encouraged to communicate with their Student 

sCoordinator if there is a concern or if there is information to pass on to the 

tcollege. You or your student is welcome to arrange a personal interview to 

adiscuss any issues or concerns. 

r 

tCommunication with a Student Coordinator can often resolve concerns or 

allow for appropriate action to be taken that will minimise any impact on your 

ostudent’s progress at the college. 

f 

Student Coordinators will assist you with: 

t Enrolment procedures 

Special provision 

h Course planning 

Family holidays during term time 

e Changes to academic programs Problems with academic progress 

Absences 

Issues with a teacher 

y Illness 

Issues with other students 

e 

a 

How to contact 

r 

Student Coordinator Sub College Phone 

Scott Vaughan 1 4408 6296 

s 

t 

Ian Kellett 2 4408 6185 

u 

Annemarie Burgess 3 4408 6117 

d 

Katie Niklaus 4 4408 6227 

eJane Warne 5 4408 6299 

nMarg Jewell 6 4408 6326 

tMandy Ellison 7 4408 6142 

sSuzie Janssen 8 4408 6180 

aAll students and staff are also assigned to one of our 8 Pathway Communities. 

rStudents attend assemblies in their Pathway Community area where 

einformation related to careers and their specific pathway is shared. We also 

compete for points for our Pathway Communities through college activities 

such as the Blast Off pool party as shown on the next page. 

Our 8 Pathway Communities include: Commerce, Communications, 

Community Services, Health Services, Maths and Sciences, Recreation and 

Environment, Skilled Services and Visual Arts. 



PAGE 5 




PAGE 6 


Student Attendance 

Congratulations to all students who have had a fantastic start to the school year by attending all classes and 

making very sound progress. 

A reminder that when full attendance is not possible, we ask that the college be 

notified by using one of the following methods (in order of preference): 

Notify the college absence line on 5442 7416 as soon as you are aware of the 

absence (even if in advance). The absence line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a 

week. 

If an absence occurs and the college has not been notified, an SMS will be sent on 

that day to the parent/carer. We ask that you respond to that message 

immediately with a reason for the absence. 

If the above are unable to occur, please provide a written explanation on the 

student’s immediate return to the college. 

We value the opportunity to work in partnership with parents and carers to best support student outcomes. 

Please read the article provided by ‘No. 1 parenting educator’, Michael Grose, on page 23 of our Parent News for 

more information on the importance of being at school and on time. We are keen to reciev your feedback on the 

value of including Michael’s ‘Insights’ as a regular feature of our Parent Newsletter. If you feel these are of value, 

please let us know by sending a message to us at admin@bssc.edu.au. 

Kylie Hand & 

Michael Lennon, Student Managers 



PAGE 7 


Student Council 

On Wednesday this week we conducted the first Student Council meeting. Student willingness to participate has 

been overwhelming with more than 50 enthusiastic nominees. After a brief introduction we informed students 

that our ‘Training Day’ (held on campus) and voting in of the Office Bearers will take place next Tuesday 28 

February. Every student who would like to participate in Student Council will be given a role to play. 

There are many events happening in March and as soon as we have students established in their various roles we 

will be able to democratically select which events Student Council will support. A number of students have also 

put their names down to participate in a ’Model United Nations Conference’ addressing the situation of 

Environmentally Displaced Persons. Opportunity abounds and we can’t wait to get started! 

Sue Pickles, Student Council Coordinator 

Katherinen Gymnasium (Ingolstadt, Germany) Exchange 

Bendigo Senior Secondary College will be running a 2012/13 six week exchange with Katherinen Gymnasium 

(Germany) over the Summer holidays (Early December through to late January). After this year, the exchange will 

run every two years; therefore the next exchange will take place in 2014/15. 

This year’s exchange students had a wonderful experience. We went on many day trips around Bavaria, perused 

the stalls of the Augsburg Christmas Market, did a spot of shopping in Munich and went on a historical tour of 

Regensburg. Our cultural excursion was a four day trip to Berlin, which was a highlight for many of this year’s 

students. 

Organisation for this year’s exchange has already begun, so I would love to hear from those Year 11 German 

students who are interested in coming, either in person at my office in the Language Centre or via email: 

randles.meghan@bssc.edu.au 

Homestays 

We are looking for additional homestays for 6 of our German exchange students who are coming this year. They 

will be here for six weeks, from July through to August. If you were interested in providing a homestay for one of 

these students please contact me on the above address. 

Meghan Randles, German Teacher 



PAGE 8 

Greece and Italy Study Tour 


Students and staff who attended the 2011 Greece and Italy Tour had a fabulous time and learnt so much. It would 

be a great enhancement to the learning of students studying such subjects as Art, Classics, and Renaissance 

History to go on this trip in 2012 if you can. The trip leaves in late November for around 17 days and cost around 

$6000. Please contact Skye Myers for more information. myers.skye@bssc.edu.au 

Skye Myers, Greece and Italy Tour Coordinator 

Curriculum 

Unit Guidelines 

At the beginning of each VCE, VET and VCAL unit, students receive a Unit Guideline which lists the requirements 

for successful unit completion. Unit Guidelines are signed by the student and kept for future reference. 

Please discuss these with your student. For each VCE Unit these include: 

Outcomes for the Unit 

Assessment for the unit (School Assessed Coursework (SACs), School Assessed Tasks (SATs), Assessment Tasks 

and Examinations) 

Levels of achievement which range from UG to A+ 

Dates that SACs and SATs will be completed 

Homework guidelines for the unit 

Gaining an S in VCE Units or Satisfactory Completion of an Outcome 

Students will be awarded an S (Satisfactory) for each VCE unit where their teacher has sufficient evidence that the 

student has met the required outcomes. The achievement of outcomes will be mainly determined by students’ 

performance on the assessment tasks, SACs or SATs. Teachers will also ensure a range of Learning Activities are 

provided for students to build their knowledge and skills necessary to meet the outcomes. If a student does not 

meet a satisfactory level of performance on a SAC or SAT or Assessment Task, (D grade or above), they may be at 

risk of not meeting an outcome and receiving an N (Non Satisfactory) for the unit. Where this situation occurs, 

teachers will take into consideration the Learning Activities completed in the classroom and for homework. 



PAGE 9 


If a student has not completed a sufficient number of Learning Activities to a satisfactory standard, a 

Supplementary Task may be set to allow a student the opportunity to demonstrate meeting an outcome. Failure 

to complete a Supplementary Task set by the classroom teacher may result in an N being recorded for the 

Outcome and therefore an N for the Unit. 

Determination of Grades 

This guide is used in the determination of grades for 

reports at Bendigo Senior Secondary College in 

2012. 

Note: 

The achievement of E+, E or UG does not indicate 

satisfactory achievement of the outcome(s). 

A+ 90%-100% 

A 80%-89% 

B+ 75%-79% 

B 70%-74% 

C+ 65%-69% 

C 60%-64% 

D+ 55%-59% 

D 50%-54% 

E+ 45%-49% 

E 40%-44% 

UG less than 40 

Semester 1 SAC Calendar 2012 

All students undertaking a Unit 3 and 4 subject will have received a SAC Calendar listing all SACs to be completed 

in Semester 1. To assist students with planning and organisation I would encourage parents/carers to discuss with 

their student the need to record SAC dates in their student handbook to assist in their planning and organisation. 

Parents/carers could highlight the subjects their son or daughter is studying and display the calendar on the fridge 

as a reminder. You can access this via the college website. 

Absence from School Assessed Coursework (SAC) 

Students and parents who attended the recent Blast Off interviews, would have received a handout explaining 

the processes in relation to a student’s absence from School Assessed Coursework (SAC) and the scoring of a 

Rescheduled SAC at Unit 3&4 level, as well as what to do if the student is absent from a Rescheduled SAC. Please 

take the time to read this important information relating to assessment and your student. Students must 

complete all SACs/SATs prescribed in the Unit Guidelines to receive an “S”. 

As student achievement for a unit is partly determined by a student’s results in School Assessed Coursework 

(SAC), it is important that students are at school for scheduled SACs. 

In circumstances where a student misses a SAC the following process applies: 

Students absent from School Assessed Coursework/Assessment Tasks for legitimate reasons must complete a 

rescheduled SAC under supervision at the earliest available session time. 

A rescheduled SAC must be arranged prior to the absence (if predictable) and completed at the earliest session 

time available. 

Students absent from a Unit 3&4 SAC must complete a rescheduled SAC under supervision at the earliest 

available session time. It is the responsibility of the student who has missed the SAC to contact their classroom 

teacher or Student Coordinator personally to reschedule the SAC. The student will receive a rescheduled SAC 

details form which includes the day, date, session time, room, specific instructions and materials allowed. 

Scoring of a Rescheduled SAC Unit 3&4 

A rescheduled SAC will not be scored unless current and appropriate documentation is provided; either a: 

Medical certificate or medical report 

Reports from social workers, youth workers or other professionals 

School approved absence e.g. Excursion, Outdoor and Environmental Studies trip, VET Outdoor Recreation, 

sport excursion, OR 

Phone call is received from a parent/guardian by the Student Coordinator on the day the original SAC is missed 

to explain the absence and get approval. 

If a student wishes to lodge an appeal against the grading of a rescheduled SAC as unscored, the following 

applies: 

Within 2 days of returning to school, it is the responsibility of the student to see their relevant Student 

Coordinator to collect a form which is to be used to lodge an appeal against an unscored SAC. 



PAGE 10 


The completed form must be returned to the Student Coordinator within 3 school days of collecting the form. 

All appeals will be referred by the relevant Student Coordinator to the VCE Programs Manager. The VCE 

Programs Manager will make a recommendation to the Assistant Principal; Teaching and Learning about 

whether or not the work will be scored. The outcome of the appeal will be provided to the student in writing. 

A final appeal can be made to the College Principal. Such an appeal must be made in writing within three days 

of the student receiving advice of the outcome of the original appeal. 

Absence from School Assessed Coursework Unit 1&2 

Students absent from a Unit 1&2 SAC must complete a rescheduled SAC under supervision at the earliest session 

time available, the following applies: 

Students negotiate a rescheduled SAC time directly with their classroom teachers. There is no Student 

Coordinator involvement. 

The Classroom Teacher will reschedule the SAC into the earliest available supervised session. 

The student will be given a rescheduled SAC details form detailing the day, date, session time, room, specific 

instructions and materials for the rescheduled SAC. 

For students studying a Unit 1&2 subject the rescheduled SAC will only receive a grade if the absence has been 

approved by the Student Coordinator. 

Absence from a Rescheduled SAC for Units 1&2 and 3&4 

If a student is unable to sit a rescheduled SAC that has been booked into a session, the above process must be 

repeated. Where it has not been possible to complete a rescheduled SAC the student should lodge an application 

for special provision through the Student Coordinator. Failure to complete SACs/SATs/Assessment Tasks and 

Rescheduled tasks without legitimate reasons may result in an N for the unit. Parents/carers must be informed. 

FAQs about SACs/SATs and Assessment 

All students will work through the handout ‘11 FAQs about SACs/SATs and Assessment’ with their Advisor. This 

handout has been designed to provide direction for students around curriculum issues such as authentication, 

SAC Rescheduling and submission of work for assessment. Please take the time to ask your student about these 

scenarios so as to develop and reinforce your understanding in this key area. 

Paul Seery, VCE Programs Manager 

Student Wellbeing 

Important Laws Involving Alcohol 

On 1 November 2011, the law was changed to make it illegal to serve alcohol in a private home to anyone less 

than 18 years of age, unless their parents have given permission. Adults who break the new law face fines over 

$7,000 – the same amount a licensee would be fined for selling alcohol to someone who is underage. 

More information is available at teendrinkinglaw.vig.gov.au 

Donna Weightman & 

Helen Martin, Student Counsellors 



PAGE 11 

Young Carers Scholarships for 2012 - Now Open 


Carers Victoria is pleased to announce that applications for 2012 Young Carer Scholarships are now open. 

The scholarships are for young people with caring responsibilities who are attending Secondary School in Victoria. 

Applications close on 30 March 2012. The Guidelines, Application Form, Promotional Flyer and Poster can be 

downloaded from the Carers’ Victoria website on www.carersvictoria.org.au/young-carers-scholarships. 

If you believe your son or daughter qualifies and would like assistance in completing the application, please see 

your student’s Advisor or Student Coordinator. 

Kylie Hand, Student Manager 

Cultural Diversity Week, 19-24 March 

BSSC will celebrate the cultural diversity of our College Community during this week and there will be activities for 

students every day during private study time or lunch breaks. Parents are invited to join in the following 

celebrations which will be held in our new Language Centre. 

Sharing Karen Culture 

Tuesday, March 20, 3:30pm in the Bendigo Indigenous Homework Centre 

Come to the BELS homework program to view the displays featuring Karen culture. 

Sharing Chinese Culture 

Wednesday, 21 March, 4 – 6pm in the Confucius Classroom 

An interactive and entertaining session on learning about Chinese culture and language through the Confucius 

Classroom touch technology resources. Registrations for free Chinese language lessons can also be made. 

Contact Linda Lyons on 4408 6203 

Indigenous Weaving Workshop 

Saturday, March 24, 10am – 4pm in the Bendigo Indigenous Homework Centre 

This is an opportunity for parents to learn how to weave with natural materials. Skilled Gunditjamara weaver, 

Bronwyn Razem, will be the instructor. This is a free event – please bring a plate to share for lunch. 

Contact Heather Jones on 4408 6184 

Heather Jones, BIHC Coordinator 



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PAGE 13 


International Student Program 

International Fee Paying Students Program 

The new students are settling in very quickly and there are very positive indicators for the benefit that they will 

bring to the college as well as for their own progress. After celebrating the end of the Chinese New Year festival 

with sweet dumplings in the Language Centre, the students immersed themselves in the Blast Off activities. 

Yingying partnered Ebony, a local student, in Sumo wrestling, others joined in the obstacle course, Bojun and 

Qiwei joined in the resistance run challenge, and Qiwei took the plunge from the high dive platform while his 

colleagues, less daring, looked on. A number of new students purchased swimwear at the pool so they could join 

in a good day with much fun. This is very heartening and exciting. A real challenge is to facilitate our fee-paying 

students to become full participants in the college community both for cultural bridge building and developing 

their English language skills. With this display of spirit from our international students, this year is shaping as one 

of major advance in meeting this challenge. Engaging the students in conversation and participation is, of course, 

another way that homestay families can assist the students to achieve their goals. Christina has been very busy 

meeting with students and homestay families to ensure everyone is settling in. 

Our twelve graduating students from 2011 are finalising their tertiary education pathways with ten students 

choosing Australian universities and the other two taking up studies in China. Many homestay families have 

caught up with former students and we look forward to maintaining contact. 



PAGE 14 


Exchange Students 

With the arrival of four new exchange students, we now have seven in this program. The students have come 

from Brazil, Italy, Japan, Sweden, France and Germany. Together with our full-fee paying students (from China, 

Vietnam, Malaysia, Solomon Islands and the Philippines) and our new-arrival students from many different parts 

of the world, great opportunities abound for all students at the college to experience first-hand many different 

cultural backgrounds as well as providing the Australian cultural experiences for our international students. 

Dan Dwyer Christina Xie 

International Students Programs Coordinator 

Homestay Coordinator 

Bendigo Indigenous Homework Centre & Wannik Tutorial Support 

The Bendigo Indigenous Homework centre is now back in full swing each Wednesday after school until 5.15pm, in 

the Multicultural Language Centre .There is always a nice afternoon tea provided by the VCAL students and with 

two Secondary teachers and two or three highly qualified volunteers, students can be assured of plenty of help 

with their work. They are most welcome to bring along their friends. This week former student Allara Pattison will 

be visiting to tell students about her first experiences at Box Hill TAFE, and what it is like to relocate to Melbourne. 

Heather Jones, BIHC Coordinator 

Karen/New Arrival Students Programs 

New ESL VCAL Program for 2012 

I am very pleased to be introducing our ESL VCAL program in 2012 in my role as the ESL VCAL Program 

Coordinator. We have had a successful start to the year with increasing enrolments of New Arrival students and 

with the distribution of government issued netbooks to our Year 11 students. It is with great pleasure that I share 

this role with Mandy Ellison our ESL VCAL Literacy Classroom Teacher who is also our New Arrival Program 

support for this year. Michael Lennon is teaching our ESL VCAL Numeracy Classes and is also overseeing our New 

Arrival Program in his position as Student Manager. 

Our 23 Karen students and 1 Afghani student have settled into 

class well and are learning the everyday skills to support them in 

their ESL Program. Recently in their ESL VCAL classes students 

have started planning the construction of a college garden and 

have designed an informative brochure on BSSC and the City of 

Greater Bendigo with the intention of providing these brochures 

to New Arrival students and their families. 

We ventured to the Pathway Community Challenge - Pool Party 

during Blast Off, where our students participated in many events. 

It is with great pleasure that I congratulate San on his diving skills. 

A great effort and win! 



PAGE 15 


We would like to congratulate and send our good wishes to Mardi Holland who was our ESL Specialist Coach in 

2011 on the safe arrival of her little girl Isabella May. 

I have been very fortunate this month to have participated in a five day Regional ESL Specialist ‘Partnership 

Learning’ Program. This was a great experience and I am looking forward to sharing the resources with staff and 

students to ensure they continue to develop their awareness of ESL. I will also provide curriculum and strategy 

support for teachers on ESL learning. 

Judy Kidman (ESL Coordinator from Weeroona Secondary College) and Htoo Shee (Mutlicultural Education 

Assistant) are facilitating our Year 10 Enrichment Program in 2012 this is a great initiative that supports the 

transition of these students to our college. The class consists of 15 Karen students from our 7-10 government 

schools. Students attend our college every Monday and participate in the Bridging Program which supports their 

learning and extends their English skills. We are very excited about this program as we believe it will prepare 

students for their transition into Year 11 and 12 at BSSC. 

Bendigo ESL Learning Support (BELS) 

Our BSSC ESL Learning Support Program (BELS) continues in 2012. The BELS program operates on Tuesday and 

Thursday afternoons from 3.00 until 5.15pm in the Language Centre. The Program is open to all New Arrival 

students from our 7-10 government schools. These sessions have had a great start this year with structured ESL 

support, a time for students to complete homework in a resourced environment, assistance from qualified staff, 

and very supportive volunteer tutors from the Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services and La Trobe University. 

The BELS program also provides an opportunity for parents to receive translation support from Multicultural 

Education Assistants (MEA). 

Our team look forward to sharing their program opportunities and successes in these monthly parent 

newsletters. 

Volunteer Request 

The BELS program after school homework program has commenced for 2012 and is looking for interested 

community volunteer tutors. This program provides language support for Karen students after school on Tuesdays 

and Thursdays during term. Tutors require a Working with Children Check which are free to volunteers and can be 

obtained through the post office. 

The focus of the BELS program is to develop literacy and oral language skills and to assist students in completing 

homework and assignments. We are seeking the support of volunteers who feel that they could give a couple of 

hours on a Tuesday or Thursday afternoon to help our very enthusiastic learners. We have a number of students 

completing studies in the health and community services areas so anyone with an interest or experience in the 

health services/community services area would be a great asset to our friendly team. Training is available to 

support new tutors in assisting students who have come from a refugee background. 

If you feel you can be of assistance or want to know more, please contact Linda Lyons on 4408 6203, Michael 

Lennon on 4408 6196 or Mandy Ellison on 4408 6142. 

Abby Shay, ESL VCAL Coordinator 



PAGE 16 

Skilled Services Pathway Community ~ Student Profile 

Brenton Hassett 

Students wishing to focus on Trades in 

their VCE or VCAL programs frequently 

choose to belong to the Skilled Services 

Pathway Community when they enrol at 

BSSC. This was indeed the case for 

Brenton Hassett, a Year 12 VCE student 

who has three of his subjects linked to 

trade skills. Brenton is completing preapprenticeship 

VET Certificates in both 

Engineering and Automotive, and is also 

studying Design and Technology 

(Competition Vehicles), along with 

English and Further Maths. Brenton’s 

learning program at BSSC provides him 

with the opportunity to undertake VCE 

scored assessment while also 

concentrating on achieving high level 

knowledge and skills for the industry 

areas he is interested in. 


Brenton is supported by Advisors who 

have trade backgrounds and are familiar 

with possible career pathways that would meet his needs. Daryl King, Brenton’s Year 11 Advisor, knew Brenton 

before he came to BSSC through his involvement with Competition Vehicles when in Year 10 at Weeroona College 

Bendigo. Brenton has continued his participation in Competition Vehicles with Daryl and was a key member of the 

team which had great success in 2011 events at Wonthaggi, Adelaide and the Maryborough Energy Breakthrough 

last year. Brenton says “having an Advisor who knows me well makes it very comfortable attending Advisor 

meetings and taking the advice given by someone who has an interest in me and knows my skills. I really enjoy 

being based at the Trade Training Centre for most of my subjects and learning from the teachers there even 

during recess and lunchtimes”. Mark Bannerman is his Year 12 Advisor and his VET Automotive teacher, and is a 

great guide for mechanical careers and the possible pathways Brenton’s auto training might provide. 

Full of praise for the VET courses and facilities in the Trade Training Centre at BSSC, Brenton commented that 

during the recent school holidays he worked for Strathdale Sheet Metal and Engineering and because of his VET 

training on state of the art equipment at BSSC, he knew how to operate nearly all the equipment in his 

employer’s factory. When he finishes Year 12, Brenton hopes to pursue an apprenticeship in Fitting and Turning, 

with a view to eventually working in the earthmoving/mining industry. “My VET automotive mechanical training 

along with my metal engineering knowledge will be of great value to my career prospects” Brenton said. His skills 

have been noticed by a number of businesses who have offered him work and any spare time he has is used to 

gain industry experience in earthmoving at Wombat Earthmoving or with engineering employers. 

BSSC wishes Brenton every success in his studies and future career in the Skilled Services Industries. 

Rosalie Lake, Publicity Officer 



PAGE 17 


Brave New (Digital) World at BSSC 

At BSSC we are committed to helping our students become capable digital citizens who use technology, not only 

effectively and creatively, but also responsibly and wisely. 

In 2011, Bendigo Senior 

Secondary College joined the 

iKeepSafe-Generation Safe 

Victorian Pilot program. 

This program is designed to provide schools and their communities with comprehensive strategies to develop 

policies and procedures to manage the use of diverse technologies in the worlds of our 21 st century learners. 

Coordinated by Robyn Treyvaud, the program is aimed at promoting safe and responsible digital citizens. 

iKeepSafe-Generation Safe does not just focus specifically on Cyberbullying or Cybersafety but seeks to integrate 

an understanding and appreciation of the moral, ethical and legal responsibilities of being a global digital citizen. 

It is about managing relationships and managing reputations. 

Three staff members attended the initial training, along with a number of other schools from the Loddon 

Campaspe Mallee Region, who have elected to include this area as a priority area for their Strategic and Annual 

Implementation Plans. By the end of last year Simon Wood, Pathways and Transitions Manager, Mandy Ellison, 

Student Coordinator, and Bronnie Miller, Teaching and Learning Manager, had briefed the whole college about 

the program and their role within it. The first step towards gaining accreditation as a college with ‘Excellence in 

Digital Citizenship’ was initiated through the end of year staff Professional Development program where we 

conducted the first phase of a comprehensive school self-assessment audit of current policies, practice, issues 

and needs regarding the use of a broad range of digital technology used by staff and students within the college. 

The Generation Safe program presents a sequence of goals that schools work through 

to ensure they have provided students, staff and the wider community with clear 

policies and practices in regards to the acceptable use of technology. As schools 

complete each goal they gain a higher level of accreditation. We are proud to 

announce that we are currently accredited at the Bronze Level, moving closely towards 

Silver, Gold then Platinum. 

Awareness of the legal issues around posting inappropriate images or content on the Internet through social 

networking or games sites or via mobile phones is a key area that must be continually highlighted and reinforced. 

The ramifications of the inappropriate use of technology are well documented in the news media and the impact 

often reverberates well beyond the college. It is important to have a broad and fair representation of our whole 

college community. This will ensure the development of a collective and shared understanding of all aspects of 

the way technology impacts on our lives and the ways our community will manage this. 

Any parents who would like to express their interest in contributing their voice to this e-committee are 

encouraged to contact Linda Lyons, Simon Wood, Mandy Ellison or Bronnie Miller at the college on 5443 1222. 

Updates about our progressive development will be provided in future Parent Newsletters. 

Please take a moment to watch this short video clip, the winning entry to the 2011 ‘What’s Your Story’ 

competition: http://goo.gl/5dyvK and read the Insights on ‘Keeping kids safe in a cyber world’ by ‘No. 1 parenting 

educator, Michael Grose on page 22 of this Parent Newsletter. 

Simon Wood, Pathways & Transition Manager 

Mandy Ellison, Student Coordinator 



PAGE 18 

Library 


According to the 2006 Adult Literacy and Life Skills Survey, nearly half of all Australians (46%) don’t have the 

literacy skills they need to cope with the complex demands of everyday life and work in the emerging 

knowledge-based economy. http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/4228.0 

Reading can have a great impact on improving literacy levels, and in this, the National Year of Reading, we would 

like to encourage you all to read as much as possible. The official website www.love2read.org.au offers lots of tips 

and information. There will be a number or activities and competitions taking place throughout the year run by 

various organisations such as the State Library of Victoria. The first one is called “Read This” with $40,000 worth 

of prizes on offer! To enter, students can nominate the one book they think their peers must read in 2012 and 

then provide a convincing argument in the form of a creative response to the story. This will be a book review, but 

it could be in the form of words, pictures, film, song, a book trailer or something even more avant-garde. 

Keep watching this space for further details when the website to enter is launched on March 1. 

Connie Greblo, Teacher/Librarian 

Pathways and Careers 

It’s never too early to start considering your child’s future career directions. Making decisions about what they 

would like to study after school can be both stressful and exciting. Many students often feel unsure about what 

they would like to study and many feel like they don’t know where to start! 

There are so many things to consider- complete Year 12 or Year 13 or leave early TAFE or University Have a gap 

year or go straight into further study Can they afford to move away if they can’t study locally 

For students and their families who haven’t been to a University or TAFE information session, there are even 

more questions. Where can students study the course they are interested in How do they choose between 

several courses across several institutions How much will the course cost How do they find out about 

scholarships What if they don’t get the ATAR needed What is University and TAFE actually like 

These decisions can be difficult to make and then they have the added pressure of focusing on their studies and 

other commitments such as sport and employment. 

Apart from meeting with one of our career advisors early in the year, it is a great idea to attend information 

sessions run by tertiary institutions. Many run focus days and information seminars throughout the year and all 

run Open Days in August. 

By attending information sessions your family will be able to: 

Speak directly to current students and lecturers and hear from them about the courses your student is 

interested in. 

Look around the campus and get a feel for the culture of the institution. Does it have a modern or traditional 

feel Would be easy to meet people Would your student prefer to study at a small campus or a large one 



PAGE 19 


We value: Respect, Optimism, Learning, Environment 


Learn about scholarships, course costs, government fee assistance, global exchange and accommodation 

options. 

Ask about alternative pathway programs available as a back-up in case your student doesn’t get the ATAR they 

need for their course. 

Attend workshops and sessions on the courses your student is interested in and compare facilities and 

students services between institutions. 

Attending information sessions will assist your student in setting new career goals or firming up ideas they 

already have. Having a course or courses in mind can also assist them in feeling more motivated to work hard at 

their studies. 

Information sessions are usually free and some require registration. Start to map out session dates on a calendar 

and pick the ones you will be able to attend. Here are some tertiary information programs to get you started: 

University of Melbourne ‘Meet Melbourne’ 

When: Wednesday 28 March 

Where: Bendigo 

Registration: www.futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/meetmelbourne 

University of Melbourne ‘Access All Areas’ 

When: Friday 13 April 

Where: Parkville Campus 

Registration: Year 12 students only. http://futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/explore/events 

Charles Sturt University ‘MyDay’ CSU Events include environmental science, teaching, arts, psychology, social 

work, business, IT & computing. 

When: Over 40 courses on various dates up until June 

Registration: Judy Walsh at infoevents@csu.au.au or 02 6338 6010 

RMIT ‘Get Real Experience’ School Holiday Programs: If you are in years 10 – 12 and are passionate about 

science, engineering or health, you have the opportunity to attend a ‘Get Real Experience’ School Holiday 

Program at RMIT in your area of interest. 

Registration: www.rmit.edu.au/experiencedays 

Monash University ‘At Monash Seminar Series’: showcases different faculties within the University. Students 

will be able to attend seminars in areas such as engineering, arts, sport, education, health, design etc. 

When: Seminars run over several months 

Registration: www.monash.edu.au/study/options/schools/at-monash.html 

Other Universities have not yet released dates of their events, but we will advertise these in future 

newsletters as soon as they are available. 

Gap Year and Student Exchange Expo 

14 March 2012 – 7.00 to 8.30pm 

Catholic College Bendigo 

Marian Centre, Wright Street 

Parallel to View Street, between Barkly and 

Valentine Streets. 

Parking is available off campus in the streets nearby. If you park in Valentine St please park only on the school 

side of the street. 

Who’s it for Year 12 students considering a student exchange year 

7 - 7.30pm Panel Presentation, in the Marian Centre Theatre 

Panellists discuss: Gap Year issues, Youth Allowance Update 

7 - 8.30pm Expo stalls, in the Marian Centre Gym 

Gap year programs, Travel arrangements, Overseas work, Youth 

allowance, Traineeships and other employment, Secondary school 

exchange programs. 

Proudly presented by

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Tertiary Information Service (TIS) 2012 

TIS is a compulsory event for all Year 12 students and will be held on Wednesday 16 May in the college Gym. 

All universities, TAFEs, Centrelink and many Independent Tertiary colleges are invited to attend this event. Have 

all your questions answered about VTAC, applications, course offerings and provider facilities. This event is 

valuable for all students as it covers the many different options available to them once they leave BSSC. 

Events in March 

9: Defence Technical Scholarship Applications Close 

25: Veterinary Science Open Day, University of Melbourne, Werribee, www.vet.unimelb.edu.au/openday 

Mark Zulian, Careers and Pathways Coordinator 

SUPPORTING RURAL STUDENTS 

MIPs 

Year 11 and 12 is a very busy time for most students. Statistically, those who complete Year 12 have a far greater 

chance of transitioning to sustainable destinations (university, employment or further study) than those who have 

not been able to complete their VCE or VCAL programs. MIPs make contact with every student that exits the 

college each year, six months after leaving and more often than not students who have left with no destination 

still remain unemployed or not engaged or supported. We encourage any parent who has concerns that their son 

or daughter has not settled into their current college program to contact us for an appointment as soon as 

possible. 

Lorelle Pearse pearse.lorelle@bssc.edu.au (Mon – Fri) 

Direct: 4408 6120 Mobile: 0400221800 

Marla Carlier carlier.marla@bssc.edu.au (Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri) 

Direct: 4408 6240 Mobile: 0400025568 

Besides class and study, what else could my son/daughter be doing whilst at school, to remain connected 

Checking out the MIPs Online Job Board and MIPs Page (all accessible on the BSSC home page) 

Meeting with the MIPs team to discuss getting a part-time job or assistance with a new resume. 

Checking out the MIPs information board outside our office for information on other courses, open days such 

as the Police Academy, and local council opportunities. Applying for current scholarships and grants. 

Attending an onsite certificate course at the college. We regularly run Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) and 

Safe Food Handling courses. The next RSA is on Wednesday 28 March – sign up in the MIPs office. 

Doing some volunteer work – always looks great to a prospective employer. 

Meeting with the Work Placement team to organise employment aspirations. 

Looking after themselves, maybe visiting the Wellbeing Team, or our free onsite doctors and nurses. 

Recognising that balanced social and sporting activity still remains an integral part of successful learning. 

Joining college activities such as Student Council, trips, clubs, support groups and sporting representation. 

Seeing your Student Coordinator about any general concerns with classes and programs. 

Working on their individual goals – celebrating successes and discussing the future. 

Utilising their study periods to meet with classroom teachers and/or Advisors. 

Organising a study group – getting motivated with others, getting support from others. 

Attending assemblies and reading the Student News, listening to guest speakers. 

Signing up for workshops – fantastic programs run during Advisor time based on student areas of interest. 

Lorelle Pearse, MIPS Case Manager 



PAGE 21 


Sport @ BSSC 

Sign-Ups 

Students have been very responsive to the sporting opportunities available this term and I congratulate them on 

their attendance at selection trials for the sports already underway. Just a reminder that it is vital to read Student 

News each Sunday night or Monday morning to see what’s on. Several students have become involved in Sport by 

acting as an official either as part of their VET Sport and Recreation course or as a volunteer. 

We welcome interested students to register their intent to volunteer. 

Selections 

Are underway for Tennis, Volleyball, Basketball, Lawn Bowls, Rugby League, Touch Footy and Baseball. 

A database of student interest for a particular sport is established and students are emailed regarding selections 

and information is published in the Student News and on the Student Noticeboards. Students need to pay 

particular attention to the noticeboard outside the library and on the Gym door for selection and training 

schedules. 

Cricket 

Our BSSC Boys Cricket campaign has kicked off for 2012 with a 30 over match versus Girton Grammar at Spring 

Gully Oval. There was a large pool of talent to choose from and many new students were given the opportunity to 

play before a Twenty20 squad was to be selected for the upcoming CCB clash. An 81 run stand between Jake 

Higgins and Mitch Blackman was the highlight of the BSSC batting innings. Jake was awarded man of the match 

with his 61 not out, superb wicket keeping and precision spin bowling. Also handy with the bat was Jonte 

Entwistle with 23 runs. BSSC reached 6-176 off 30 overs. 

Johnno Scott set the pace as opening bowler and only conceded 12 runs off 5 overs. Matt Gray took the critical 

wicket of Girton’s Jake Wilson and some more great bowling and fielding reduced Girton’s run rate. Captain 

Harley Dunlop came to the crease and a brilliant bowling spell set up victory. The tail end batsman fell away 

quickly with Logan Stephens finishing 4-12 off 4.3 overs. After being 5-107 Girton were all out for 129. 

Thank you to Duane Anderson and David Lumsdon for their guidance of the Boys Cricket team. 

Term One Calendar 

MARCH 

DAY DATE EVENT LOCATION 

Friday 2 Sandhurst - Swim/Diving Bendigo Aquatic Centre 

Monday 5 Sandhurst - Cricket vs CCB Bendigo 

Friday 9 Loddon Mallee - Lawn Bowls Golden Square 

Tuesday 13 Loddon Mallee - Cricket Finals Boys & Girls Bendigo 

Friday 16 Schools Cup - Beach Volleyball Melbourne 

Thursday 15 Loddon Mallee - Swim/Diving Swan Hill 

Thursday 15 Rowing Victoria - Regatta Barwon River, Geelong 

Monday 19 Loddon Mallee - Golf Rich River Golf Club, Moama 

Monday 19 Sandhurst - Tennis vs CCB Bendigo 

Wednesday 21 Loddon Mallee - Cricket Final BACKUP Bendigo 

Monday 26 Volleyball vs CCB Bendigo 

Tuesday 27 School Sport Victoria - Quarter Final Boys & Girls Bendigo 

Tuesday- 27-29 Australian Schools - Mountain Biking/Cycling Dookie/Shepparton 

Thursday 

Thursday 29 School Sport Victoria - Swim/Diving Melbourne Sports Aquatic Centre 

Vicki Poyser, Director of Sport 



PAGE 22 


Star Performers 

Mountain Biking 

Tasman Nankervis, Jason Lowndes and Chris Hamilton 

Our trio finished in the top 10 in the final round of the 

National All Mountain Bike Cup at Mt Stromlo near 

Canberra. Tasman 5 th , Chris 6th and Jason 8th. 

All three students will now be competing in the 

Australian Championships in Adelaide. 

Swimming 

James Coughlin 

Achieved Bronze in the relay at the 

Victorian Sprint Championships 

AFL 

Breeanna Gaylor and Allara Jennings 

Selected for the AFL Victoria Girls Academy 



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Parent Newsletter - Bendigo Senior Secondary College

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