Students have made us so proud as we have watched them become more independent and resilient before our eyes
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.
— Psalm 1:3
I have been reflecting on the recent months that have seen our 'normal' school routines and interactions change. I just wanted to share with you how well our children have adjusted to the changes that COVID-19 has brought. They have made us so proud as we have watched them become more independent and resilient before our eyes. I wish to recognise the difficulties that you are facing with many of you missing the daily routines of the drop-off or the assemblies or the sporting events or musical performances. We know that you are missing the opportunity to be more present in your child's experience. Please also know that we too are missing having our families on campus and being part of the Bishop Druitt College day. We look forward to welcoming you all back in as soon as we can. In the meantime, I encourage you to keep the communication lines open. You can communicate with your teachers via email or give them a call. We appreciate your understanding, your patience and your trust in us to keep our children safe, healthy and happy at school.
HSC Celebrations
Much has been broadcast in the media about Year 12s across the state and their rites of passage events. Last week, Mrs Doyle and Mr Klipin wrote to our Year 12 families to run through our COVID-19 safe plans for Valedictory Week. I wish to highlight that these plans are within the recommendations made by Dr Kerry Chant, Mrs Sarah Mitchell (NSW Minister of Education) and our Premier Mrs Gladys Berejiklian. These events include a Year 12 excursion to reflect on their schooling experiences, house farewells and tutor group photos, a Valedictory Assembly (with Year 12s only). Our Valedictory Dinner and Formal is being planned for 13 November as is the advice from the Premier’s Office. The college is waiting for supporting advice from the Premier’s Office on how this event can proceed. With this announcement coming after Year 12 have completed their HSC trials and before they move to the HSC examination you can imagine that the students are not only relieved but extremely excited.
NSW & ACT Careers Adviser
The Careers Advisor Association of NSW and ACT which represents over 800 Careers Advisors from Government, Catholic and Independent high schools has recognised our Careers Pathways Coach, Mrs Gina Driscoll, as the 2020 Rising Star Award winner. This award recognises Mrs Driscoll as a Careers Adviser who makes a significant difference through their work in their school and provides ongoing professional support to their colleagues in the improvement of Career Education and development in schools. Mrs Driscoll will be formally acknowledged at the Careers Advisers Annual Conference in October.
World Teachers’ Day - 30 October
I know I am getting in early this year but I would like to recognise World Teachers’ Day a little differently this year and need your help. Linked are a variety of card templates and I am hoping that you and your family will take a few minutes to write a card to a teacher or a support staff member at Bishop Druitt College that has made a difference to your child during this COVID experience. All cards can be sent to the college or dropped in at Student Services. The Wellbeing Team will be putting a special display together to celebrate the amazing work that all college staff have done this year.
Thankyou card template A - black and white (PDF, 201KB)
Thankyou card template A - colour (PDF, 203KB)
Thankyou card template B - black and white (PDF, 201KB)
Thankyou card template B - colour (PDF, 203KB)
New and Departing Families Information
The college has almost completed the enrolment process for 2021 and to avoid waiting lists in select year groups I would appreciate if you could advise the school if you are going to withdraw your child at any stage in Term 4 this year. I also encourage families with younger children that have not yet enrolled, to complete their application as soon as possible for 2022 as there will be considerable wait lists for certain years especially Year 7 2022. The Heads of School are currently working on classroom structures and staffing for 2021 and would appreciate a fuller picture to help with the decision making process.
OnStage Congratulations
Four of our Drama students' individual performances have been nominated for possible inclusion in OnSTAGE (scheduled for February 2021), a selection of performances and individual projects from Higher School Certificate Drama students.
- Jonah Maxfield Bedford - Ngaya Yaam (I am Here)
- Emily Robyn Pavey - Red Bull
- Meg Denman - That Man of Mine
- Mitchell James Hodges - A Message For Mr Bernstein
This is very exciting news for these students and families and congratulations on an outstanding achievement.
Nick Johnstone
Principal