By Mr Stuart Ralph, Principal

On Tuesday, we joined as a school community for our Cross Country Carnival. I would particularly like to thank Mr Sam O’Keeffe and our Physical Education department for organising and running this event. We were fortunate with the outstanding conditions, and each year I pinch myself as I run along with the students, as our course is truly amazing.

It was pleasing to see so many students pushing themselves and producing great results. We wish those students who made our Cross Country team the best as they compete at the Tasmanian All Schools Cross Country at Symmons Plains this coming Thursday.

Insight into Learning

This term, I have dedicated Wednesdays to enable myself to spend time in the classrooms and observe our teaching programs. I am so proud of our staff, who prepare and deliver exceptional lessons, continue to evolve and adapt, and challenge themselves to try new ways of delivering content and checking for understanding. Yesterday, I had the privilege of dropping in on Mrs Kelly Hicks’ Aquatic Biology class, who were dissecting squid, while Mr Michael Stocks was busy preparing his Physics class for mid-year exams. Visiting Dance, Cooking and Art classes, the students are always eager and proud to show me what they are doing.

This week, we had experienced educators from Shaping Minds on site, observing our staff and providing feedback.

Co-Curricular Activities

I attended the Senior Seconds Football Grand Final on Wednesday afternoon at East Devonport Oval. I congratulate our boys for a great game, but unfortunately, we could not win against a strong St Patrick's team in this instance.

I would like to congratulate all students representing the College in Netball, Junior Soccer, Football, and Senior Football for both girls and boys. Your commitment to the College is contributing to the building of our positive school culture.

Enrolments for Year 7 2026

I encourage all families with children at the College who intend to enrol siblings to complete their enrolment application by Round 2, which closes on Wednesday 11 June. Places for 2026 are filling fast!

Moderation Day

Moderation Day for Senior students will occur on Friday 6 June. Students in Years 10-12 will have a student-free day, and regular classes for Years 7-9 will proceed as normal.
I wish everyone a wonderful long weekend, and thank all families for their ongoing support.

Yours sincerely,

Mr Stuart Ralph
Principal

"There is no such thing as 'away'. When we throw anything away, it must go somewhere."
- Annie Leonard

Today is World Environment Day, and Annie Leonard’s words feel especially relevant. As an American sustainability advocate, her message ties in perfectly with this year’s theme: Beat Plastic Pollution – a call for collective action against plastic waste.

At St Brendan-Shaw College, our Enviro Club is already stepping up. Meeting every second Friday, the group is currently focusing on waste and recycling projects.

If you're interested in getting involved, come along to Lab 2 on Friday 13 June or email Mrs Wilden to find out more. Every action counts!

Friday morning Mass will begin this week in the College Chapel, running fortnightly during term time.

Time: 8:20 am-8:40 am (in time for Homeroom)

Who can attend: All staff, students, and families are warmly invited.

You do not need to be a practising Catholic to attend – these Masses offer a peaceful and reflective start to the day and a moment to pause at the end of the week. If there is someone in your life you would like us to pray for, this is a meaningful time to do so.

By Ms Cheryl Gamble, Senior TASC Coordinator

Reasonable Adjustment Applications for 2025 will be closing at the end of Term 2. To accommodate students during the mid-year exams, I urge families to complete and submit these applications to the school as soon as possible.

The mid-year exams (internal exams) will run from Week 8, Tuesday 17 June to Tuesday 24 June.

• The mid-year exam timetable can be viewed using the following link: https://sbsc.me/4kpgMW4
• Students need to arrive at school 15 min before the start time for their exams.
• Students are only required to attend school during the exam period to sit their exams.
• Students have been told to wear their academic uniform when attending exams or studying at school.
• Medical certificates need to be provided to cover any missed exams.
• Study tips for exams: https://sbsc.me/4kUd3QA

End-of-year exam reminder – the 2025 written exam period is from Monday 10 November to Thursday 20 November 2025. Please add this to your calendars.

By Mr Gerry Peters, Deputy Principal – Teaching & Learning

In Week 9, all Year 10 students will sit mid-year exams as part of their academic development. These exams will take place on Wednesday 25, Thursday 26, and Friday 27 June, and provide an important opportunity for students to experience exam conditions that mirror those used in Years 11 and 12, including TASC exams.

Sitting exams under formal conditions helps students build confidence, develop focus, and refine time management skills ahead of the senior years.

At the beginning of each exam session, students must assemble in the Senior Study area before moving to the exam rooms. Attendance will be taken in the exam room.

Year 10 Exam Timetable – Week 9

What to Bring

Students must bring a clear plastic ziplock bag containing:

• 2 pens (black or blue)
• 1 pencil and eraser
• A clear plastic ruler
• Highlighters
• A calculator (please confirm with your Math teacher)
• A clear plastic drink bottle with no label

Items Not Permitted in the Exam Room

• Phones
• Smart watches
• Computers or other devices
• Food
• Earphones or AirPods

Exam Conditions and Conduct Expectations

To ensure a fair and respectful environment, students are expected to:

• Follow all instructions given by the Exam Supervisor
• Respect fellow students by remaining silent and focused throughout the session
• Sit at the desk assigned to them
• Refrain from communicating with others once inside the exam room
• Begin and end writing only when directed
• Raise their hand if assistance is needed

We encourage all students to approach these exams as a positive opportunity to practise the skills that will support their future success.

Choosing a secondary school is one of the most important decisions for your child's future.

At St Brendan-Shaw College we understand the importance of finding a school that reflects your values, nurtures your child's wellbeing, and helps them thrive. If your child is currently in Grade 6, now is the time to submit your application for Year 7 2026.

Enrolment Scholarships are also available in Academic, Sport & Arts, offering 50% remission on tuition fees. Give your child the chance to thrive in a values-based, future-focused learning community.

𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆

Visit → www.sbsc.tas.edu.au/enrolments
Round 2 Applications for Year 7 2026 close Wednesday 11 June.

Visit → www.sbsc.tas.edu.au/scholarships
Scholarship applications close Monday 30 June at 4:00 pm.

Contact our Enrolments Registrar, Mrs Iola Turner:
Phone: 03 6424 7622
Email: enrolments@sbsc.tas.edu.au

If you know someone who might be interested, please pass on the flyer below!

By Mrs Josephine Lutwyche, Teacher – Director of Pastoral Care

Bring Your Own Device – IT Requirements

At St Brendan-Shaw College, we greatly value the partnership between families and the school in supporting student learning. As many of you know, students are expected to bring their own laptops for classroom learning. Research shows that having access to a personal device enhances student engagement and learning outcomes.

Lately, staff have noted a growing number of students arriving at school with devices that are not charged. To make the most of learning time, it is important that students come to class with laptops that are ready to use.

We kindly ask families to help establish a regular routine at home to ensure devices are charged overnight. With your continued support, we can work together to set students up for success each day.

Minimum IT requirements can be found on our website:

Technology – Bring Your Own Device

Mobile Phone Protocol

As part of our commitment to creating a participative and respectful learning environment, we remind families of the Mobile Phone Protocol in place at St Brendan-Shaw College. This aligns with the Catholic Education Tasmania policy, which came into full effect in Term 1, 2025, and supports student wellbeing by limiting distractions during the school day. 

At SBSC, students who bring a mobile phone to school are expected to have it switched off and securely stored in their locker (locked with their school-issued combination lock) during school hours. Senior students may use their phones during study periods in the study area, provided this does not impact the learning of others. Any use during class time remains at the discretion of the teacher, and some exceptions may be made where mobile phones are required for specific technical tasks.

We are grateful that most students are following these expectations responsibly. For those who need further support in meeting them, we ask for your partnership in reinforcing this message at home.

You can review the full mobile phone protocol on our website: 

SBSC Policies – Mobile Phone Protocol

Thank you for your ongoing support in helping us foster positive learning habits across our school community.

Additionally, when a staff member sights a student’s mobile phone the following process is in place:

• The phone will be confiscated, given to the PA to the Deputies, and an SMS sent home indicating it will be returned at the end of the day.
• Any further incidents will result in the phone being held at the Caritas Office until it is collected in person by a parent/guardian.

Homeroom

At St Brendan-Shaw College, the Homeroom system underpins the school's pastoral care and community building efforts and aligns with our PBS value of Participating. Each student is assigned to a Homeroom within one of the four College Houses. Our Homeroom structure fosters meaningful connections across year levels, allowing younger students to benefit from the guidance and mentorship of their older peers. It also provides senior students with opportunities to develop leadership skills and contribute positively to the school community.

Homeroom is an essential part of daily life at St Brendan-Shaw College. It provides a space for students to connect with their peers and Homeroom teacher, receive important daily notices, and engage in House-based initiatives that foster community spirit and belonging. As such, attendance is compulsory for all students, including senior students who have a timetabled class in Period 1.

We ask families to support us with this expectation by ensuring students arrive at school on time each day. Homeroom begins promptly at 8:45am, and consistent attendance helps set a positive tone for the day ahead.

Devonport City Council’s school-based immunisation program is now fully digital. Parents and carers must complete the online consent form via Vitavo – no paper forms this year! 

**Please complete a form even if you do not give consent**

Consent due by: Friday 27 June 2025

Immunisations at SBSC: Thursday 14 August 2025

Year 7 Immunisations offered: 
– Human Papillomavirus
– Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough (Pertussis) dTpa

Take action now: Click here to complete the form

You’ll be asked to either consent or decline, then follow the prompts to complete a short form.

Need help? Contact Devonport City Council on 03 6424 0511 or email council@devonport.tas.gov.au.

Some students in our community show strong academic ability and a desire to challenge themselves further. This year, we are offering those students the chance to take part in the world-renowned ICAS competition.

ICAS is an online academic competition that assesses higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills in:

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Writing
• Digital Technologies

Every student who enters receives a printed certificate and an online results report. High-achieving students may also be awarded an ICAS medal.

To find out more and register your child, please read the full letter: https://sbsc.me/3FLbmpp

Registrations close: Monday 28 July 2025.

Please contact Caritas Reception if you have any questions, or email community@sbsc.tas.edu.au

Students in Years 9-12 are invited to take part in the 2025 Evatt Competition – an opportunity to step into the shoes of a UN Security Council delegate. Working in teams of two, students will represent a country, debate global issues and negotiate real-world solutions in a dynamic and engaging environment.

• No experience needed 
• Work with a friend
• Snacks provided
• Chance to represent Tasmania at Nationals!

North-West Round
Marist Regional College, Burnie
Tuesday 23 July

Students who are interested should email Ms Gamble for more information by the end of the week.

SchoolTV would like to invite parents, carers, grandparents, educators and school leaders to attend an exclusive webinar supporting primary and secondary students.

WEBINAR: Digital Media Literacy & Safety (Part II)
DATE: Wednesday, 18 June 2025
TIME: 7:30 pm

Join us for an exclusive session with two of Australia's leading experts in youth wellbeing and cybersafety, Susan McLean and Dr Michael Carr-Gregg. They will share invaluable insights on how to empower young people to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

Topics in this webinar include:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Misinformation & Algorithms
• Sexting and Sextortion
• Online Grooming

**** IMPORTANT ****
Please note, this webinar is a one-off event and will not be available to replay later.

Participants must register prior to the commencement of the webinar to gain access. Register here.

The St Brendan-Shaw Just Act (Vinnies) group have started collecting for this year's Vinnies Winter Appeal. All donations will go to the Devonport St Vincent de Paul Society, who provide vital assistance to people experiencing homelessness or hardship during the colder months.

What's needed:

• Non-perishable foods (e.g. cans of food, rice)
• Hygiene products (e.g. toothpaste, hair care products, soap)

They are also happy to accept cash donations as these will go towards more expensive items such as thermoses, flashlights, etc.

Collections will happen each Friday in Homeroom for the remainder of Term 2. There is also a collection box in the Caritas office. Any extra donations can be given to Miss Lansley or one of the Just Act group members.

By Jade McCoy

On the 25th of April this year, students from St Brendan-Shaw College gathered as a community to acknowledge and honour the men and women who served our country 110 years ago at Gallipoli. The Anzac service served as a powerful reminder to students from Years 7 to 12 of the importance of remembering these significant and impactful events every year. Beyond the school campus, many students actively participated in community services across Latrobe, Devonport, Deloraine, Port Sorell, and Ulverstone, demonstrating their respect and gratitude. 

Throughout the first two weeks of Term 2, students deepened their understanding of ANZAC day in various ways. The senior English Studio class explored its significance by designing and distributing a survey to families enrolled in at the College. They additionally conducted research on the Anzacs and proposed an idea for a future memorial on school grounds. Years 9 and 10 studied the poem Dulce et Decorum Est by Wilfred Owen, deepening their knowledge of the soldiers' experiences of the chemical warfare threats, enhancing the sense of empathy. In Years 7 and 8, students engaged with credible primary and secondary sources in their HASS lessons to identify the historical significance of Anzac Day. These sources included the Anzac Portal and Australian War Memorial archives. 

As a school, the commitment of the students to engage with the stories of Gallipoli through primary and secondary sources, the services in local communities, and the actions on school grounds throughout all year levels has undoubtedly evolved the students’ understanding and empathy for veterans' experience in conflicts, including our Australian soldiers who served 110 years ago in Gallipoli.

Tuesday ended up being a fantastic day for our College Cross Country! Students and staff made the most of the cool, sunny conditions as they tackled the mostly uphill course through Don Reserve and back to the College. The trails, still fresh from the previous night’s rain, added to the challenge and fun, creating a memorable experience for all involved.

Congratulations to everyone who took part, and best of luck to the students heading to the All Schools Cross Country next week – we’ll be cheering you on!

Check out the Devonport events for June below! Anyone can subscribe by using the subscription button on the Council Website here.

6 June - Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing
11 June - Devonport Chamber of Commerce Breakfast - with Kirsty Dryburgh, Social Bothy
14 June - Celebrating 50yrs of the Rotary Club of Devonport North
18 June - 26TEN Plain English Workshop
18 June - Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness (P-CEP) sessions
18 June - The Story Advantage: Using your Brand Story for Sales Success - Devonport
20 June - The Director's Trivia Night
24 June - Devonport Chamber of Commerce - Strengthen your business in times of uncertainty
June 25 - Aged & Disability Expo
June 26 - LGBTIQA+ Voices Against Violence

7AD and Sea FM Devonport are running the annual major fundraising event Koinz 4 Kidz. Wing’s Wildlife Park will be contributing to this cause by hosting a Kids Fun Day on Sunday 27 July.