Ballajura Bulletin Term 2 Issue 4 2025

Principal's Report

As we wrap up another exciting and successful term at Ballajura Community College, it’s a great time to reflect on the incredible energy, talent, and dedication our students have demonstrated around the college.  The term has just flown by, I think because it has been so busy!  Hopefully you have been able to keep up with the amazing events taking place via our BCC Facebook page and now through this newsletter.

BCC sporting opportunities

Staying physically active is more than just a way to stay fit—it’s essential for the health and wellbeing of teenagers. Regular exercise helps improve mood, boost concentration, reduce stress, and build confidence. It also teaches teamwork, discipline, and resilience—skills that are just as valuable in the classroom as they are on the sports field.

We are very fortunate to have dedicated and highly motivated staff who give up their time to coach and train a wide variety of sporting teams.  This term, our College sporting teams have shown outstanding commitment and sportsmanship. Whether it’s through interschool competitions, lunchtime games, or training sessions, our students continue to demonstrate the REACH values of Ballajura by being determined, respectful, and proud.

A big thank you to all the staff and students involved.

Music students on show

This term, our music students delivered performances that left audiences inspired and impressed. The first was the Winter Music Showcase and the second was when the band Samantha and the Sharjolitahs performed at the Schools Make Music concert series at Crown Theatre. Our students’ talent, hard work, and passion were on full display, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievements. A huge congratulations to all the performers, and staff who made these events so memorable.

The role of music and the arts is important to student development just like being physically active. These creative outlets allow students to express themselves, build confidence, and connect with others in meaningful ways. Research shows that involvement in the arts can enhance academic performance, improve emotional wellbeing, and foster a sense of belonging.

We look forward to seeing even more creativity and collaboration in the arts next term, and we encourage students to explore the many opportunities available through the curriculum and extra curricular activities.

Dress for Success: School Uniforms

Wearing school uniforms fosters a sense of belonging and pride. It eliminates distractions related to clothing choices and promotes equality among students. Let’s continue to uphold our uniform policy, ensuring a positive learning environment for all.  If you need winter uniform items, please visit Lowes at Mirrabooka to make purchases.  All students should be displaying the school logo on their shirts, jumpers, and jackets.  Students who are wearing non-school uniform items will be offered a change of clothes in Student Services.

Attending school every day is vitally important

It might seem strange to talk about the importance of attendance as we move into a holiday break, but I would like to thank those families who have arranged holidays, travel and appointments during the break instead of during term time.  Going to school every day is critical so your child does not miss out on important ideas, concepts, knowledge and skills for future learning.  At our school we want your teenager to do their very best.  To get the best education, they need to go to school every day.  The teenage years are a time for young people to develop independence and find their place in the world, including how they take part in their school life.  By working together, our school community can support your child’s attendance.

What can you do to help?

• Act early. It is important to understand and work on the underlying reasons why your teenager is not going to school.
• On average, teenagers need eight to nine hours sleep a night to be healthy and alert. Maintaining a daily routine helps. This may include monitoring internet, mobile phone and television use at night to ensure sleep is not disturbed.
• Try not to make appointments or take holidays during school time. This can make it difficult to catch up on missed school-work, and cause anxiety about attending school.
• Don’t let your teenager stay home unless they are genuinely sick.
• Don’t let your teenager stay home to finish an assignment that is due. Make attendance the number one priority.
• Teach them that attending to commitments is important.

Do you need to let the school know if your teenager will be away from school?

• Yes, you need to let office staff know the reason why your teenager is going to be or has been absent from school as soon as possible.
• Don’t feel the need to ‘cover up’ the reason for your teenager’s absence.
• Be honest so we can work with you and your teenager to improve their attendance.
• Having information about why your teenager is missing school helps us plan for their return, and to work out whether we can provide any further help to you.
• Have clear expectations about after school jobs. Make sure work does not impact on their ability to get to school each day or interfere with study.
• Encourage extracurricular activities such as sport and creative activities. They can help your teenager develop positive relationships and experience success, helping them feel more motivated.
• Monitor your teenager’s attendance and learning at school. Periodically check with the school to find out how things are.
• Avoid taking over or giving your teenager the impression you are solving their problems for them. Improving attendance requires the school, parent and student to work.
• If your teenager delays getting ready for school so they are late, encourage them to still go to.
• Ask school staff for help if you are struggling to get your teenager to attend.

What will BCC staff do to help?

• Offer relevant and culturally responsive learning opportunities to engage students.
• Monitor every student’s attendance and work with you to overcome problems affecting your teenager’s attendance.
• Talk with you about involving support staff such and other agencies or organisations to help.
• Talk with you about local services that may also be able to help such as Headspace, Samaritans Youthline and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).

Thank you and see you back for Semester 2

As we head into the break, it’s been great for me acknowledge and celebrate the diverse strengths of our students and the amazing College community we’ve built together. Thank you to all staff, families, and students for your continued support and enthusiasm.

I hope you all have a safe and restful holiday, and we’ll see you next term for the start of Semester 2.

Belinda Hall - Principal

Semester 1 Awards Assembly

Music Showcase

The BCC Annual Music Showcase took place at the College's Performing Arts Centre on June 17. This event highlighted the incredible talents of our music students, each excelling in their respective fields. They performed a diverse array of musical pieces, spanning classical, contemporary, and rock genres. The audience was deeply appreciative of the chance to witness these gifted students in action.

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2025 West Australian Government Schools Music Society (WAGSMS) Concert

On Friday night, 27 June, our talented band "Samantha and the Sharjolitahs" opened the 2025 West Australian Government Schools Music Society (WAGSMS) Concert at the Crown Theatre with an incredible performance. We are extremely proud of these girls for showcasing their hard work, talent, and energy on such a big stage!

Choirfest 2025

Choirfest 2025 was a choral community hit! In combining the voices of Ballajura Community College, South Ballajura Primary Schools, Alinjarra Primary, Illawarra Primary and Ballajura Primary, a wave of harmonies captured the hearts of the crowd! We welcomed our wonderful supportive guests including the primary school leadership teams, representatives from Instrumental Music School Services, Ballajura Community College P&C and Board members, and the Mayor if City of Swan Tanya Richardson.

Krystal McKnight - Head of Arts

Year 9 & 10 River Cruise

On Friday 13 June, 98 students from Year 9 & 10 embarked on an exciting river cruise along the picturesque Swan River, offering a unique opportunity to relax and connect outside the classroom. As the boat gently cruised past iconic Perth landmarks and natural bushland, laughter and music filled the air, creating a fun and memorable atmosphere. Students enjoyed stunning views, took plenty of photos, and shared a meal together on board. The cruise served as both a celebration and a bonding experience, marking an important moment in their high school journey. It was a day filled with sunshine, good company, and unforgettable memories on the water.

Toby Samuel Dawson - Year 10

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Good Standing Reward at Caversham Wildlife Park

On Thursday 26 June, 125 students attended the Good Standing excursion to Caversham Wildlife Park in Whiteman Park.  This was an unforgettable afternoon filled with excitement, learning, and hands-on experiences with Australia’s unique wildlife. Students from all year levels had the chance to feed kangaroos, meet friendly farm animals, and even pose for photos with koalas. The park’s engaging presentations and animal encounters provided a fun and educational experience, helping students better understand native species and conservation efforts. The shared adventure brought the school community closer together, with smiles, laughter, and curious questions echoing throughout the day. It was a memorable outing that combined nature, education, and school spirit in the best way possible.

Toby Samuel Dawson, Year 10

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NAIDOC Week Celebrations

On Tuesday morning, 1 July, BCC held a Whole School assembly to celebrate NAIDOC Week 2025.

The College was honoured to welcome Uncle Len Yarran and Mr Jamie Garlett as special guests. Mr Garlett delivered an exceptional musical performance on the guitar, while Uncle Len presented an inspiring Welcome to Country. Following the assembly, a traditional smoking ceremony was performed, inviting all students to participate.

After the assembly, Indigenous students, their families, and special guests enjoyed a traditional morning tea featuring kangaroo meatballs, lemon myrtle cakes, and honey butter damper. The group then proceeded to the Community Garden for a soft opening of the Yarning Circles. Participants were divided into male and female groups to engage with the yarning circles. Uncle Len led the boys in learning how to use the space respectfully, while Aunty Dulcie guided the girls on meaningful engagement with their yarning circle.

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Indigenous Games

During the NAIDOC Week celebrations students from Years 7, 8, 9 and 12 had the opportunity to learn about traditional indigenous games such as kai and buroinjin.  Classes were taught the history of each game before splitting into teams and playing against their classmates. It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm and excitement each class brought to the lessons!

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Soccer Teams Show Skill, Spirit and Dedication!

Senior Girls Team

This term, both our Junior and Senior Girls Soccer teams have proudly represented the College in a series of after-school fixtures, playing both home and away. Despite facing tough opponents and at times challenging weather conditions, our students have consistently demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship, determination and dedication.

These young athletes have given up their own time to compete and support one another, showing what it truly means to be part of a team. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and commitment to representing the College with pride.

Goal scorers across the season included Eyerus Zegeye, Nikolina Ivaneza, Maya Kerin and Fatima Rahimi, whose skill and perseverance helped lift team performance.

A special mention goes to our Year 12 players, who are embracing their final year of school with a sense of fun and friendship, making memories on and off the field. Their leadership and positivity have been an inspiration to younger players and a testament to the strong community spirit within our teams.

Well done to all involved!

Sarah Shaw - Health & Physical Education Teacher/Year 11 Coordinator

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Senior Boys Team

Term 2 Senior Boys Soccer – The Story So Far…

The Senior Boys Soccer team has had an impressive term showcasing their skills and determination on the field and still remain undefeated.

Match 1: Home Victory Against Morley SHS

• Score: 3-2
• Goals: Zain, Nikola, Yonis
• Highlight: A strong start to the term with a thrilling home win.

Match 2: Away Triumph at John Forrest SHS

• Score: 4-2
• Goals: Zain (4)
• Highlight: Zain's remarkable performance, scoring all four goals and earning the Man of the Match award.

Match 3: Hard-Fought Draw at Bob Hawke College

• Score: 1-1
• Goal: Tuji
• Highlight: A resilient display by the team to secure a valuable point in a tough away game.

Match 4: Home Game Against Shenton College

• Score: 3-2
• Goal: Nikola (2), Zain (1)
• Highlight: Outstanding victory with a big following of BCC Teachers watching. The senior boys were unbeaten for the term and have qualified for the School Sport WA Senior Shield.

The team has shown great spirit and teamwork throughout the term. Let's cheer them on as they now head toward the Schools Sport WA Shield finals next term.  Roll on the BALLA BOYZ!  Good luck to the team for their final game!

Paddy Rooney – Health & Physical Education Teacher/Year 8 Coordinator

Careers & VET News

Meet the Careers & VET Team

As part of our 'Spotlight Weeks', we are excited to showcase the incredible work of our VET & Careers Team. Our dedicated team is committed to supporting students in finding their purpose and maximizing success in their chosen pathways.

Together, our team provides invaluable support to students, helping them thrive in meaningful opportunities that prepare them for industry, employment, or further training. Our nationally recognised VET courses are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Our IMPACT/ACCESS Engagement Programs provide the resources, Career Taster/Try-a-Trade opportunities, and individualised Engagement & Transition Plans to support all students to find their sense of purpose to achieve their goals. 

Gemma Novotny - Head of Careers & VET

VET & Careers - Exciting Partnership with Australian Medical Association for 2026

Ballajura Community College is thrilled to announce a partnership with the Australian Medical Association (AMA College) for 2026. As part of this collaboration, Ballajura Community College will become a host school for the AMA Certificate II in Community Health and Wellbeing. This one-day-a-week course will be offered to Year 11 students who are accepted into the program though an application process.

This course presents a fantastic opportunity for students to explore various pathways within the Health Industry, including allied health, aged care, community health, youth work, enrolled nursing, and university pathway options.

Today, our school met with Damien Harvey, Manager for Industry Engagement, who expressed his appreciation for our role in hosting AMA in 2026. Year 10 students interested in the Community Health and Wellbeing course for 2026 can fill out the expression of interest form available in the Careers Centre. We look forward to working with AMA and are thrilled at this opportunity for our students.

 Gemma Novotny - Head of Department VET & Careers 

VET DSS – Australian Medical Association (AMA) Students - Congratulations to Our Successful AMA Applicants

We are thrilled to announce that three of our Ballajura Community College students have been successful in their applications to the Australian Medical Association. Our students will commence their courses in Semester Two, for the Certificate II in Community Health and Wellbeing (Olivia Perkins) and the Certificate III in Health Services Assistant (Aiyah Jamal Al-Din and Yusra Aden).

We wish our students all the best as they embark on these courses, which open an array of opportunities in health, community services, youth work, allied health, and nursing.

Gemma Novotny - Head of Careers & VET

Careers & VET - Guest Speaker Inspires Year 11 & 12 Students

On June 25 our Year 11 and 12 students had the privilege of attending a presentation by Alana Kilmartin, author of ‘Unserious Careers’. Alana shared a realistic perspective on the journey after high school, highlighting both the ups and downs. Her book contains actionable steps for students to take as they navigate the transition from school to adulting like a pro. She encouraged students to ‘open the mystery box’ and explore new opportunities, inspiring them to embrace the unknown and try new things.

Gemma Novotny - Head of Department Careers & VET

Student Spotlight

School-Based Traineeship - Rio Tinto

We are proud to highlight Yuki's achievements as she completes her School-Based Traineeship with Rio Tinto while working towards a Certificate II in Workplace Skills. Yuki gets paid while she learns, experiencing a ‘day in the life’ of an employee at Rio Tinto every week. She works alongside Rio Tinto employees, gaining real work experiences related to mining.

Yuki worked hard to secure this traineeship, and we wish her all the best as she progresses through until the end of Year 12.

Gemma Novotny - Head of VET & Careers

School-Based Traineeship – Fortescue Metals

 Congratulations to Leah Taylor!

We are delighted to announce that Leah (Yr 11) has been accepted into the prestigious School-Based Traineeship with Fortescue Metals. Leah successfully navigated the rigorous application process and interview, emerging as one of only three successful candidates.

The Fortescue School-Based Traineeship is a highly competitive program designed to provide students with hands-on experience and valuable industry skills.  As part of this traineeship, Leah will be completing a Certificate II in Applied Digital Technologies and gets paid as she learns. This qualification not only enhances her technical skills but also opens potential employment opportunities with Fortescue Metals in the future.

We are incredibly proud of Leah's achievement and look forward to her progress as she completes this qualification and School Based Traineeship.

Gemma Novotny - Head of Careers & VET

What is VET Delivered to Secondary Students?

Vocational Education and Training (VET) Delivered to Secondary Students is a program delivered to Year 10, 11 and 12 school students as part of your Western Australian Certificate of Education.

During the Year 10 Subject Selection Interviews in Term Three, Year 10 students will have an opportunity to complete an expression of interest for any courses that they may like to apply for to commence in 2026. These courses are usually one day a week and are a great opportunity for students to gain industry specific skills, develop employability skills and provide pathways for students’ post-school.

Click on the link below to access specific information from North Metro Tafe about VETDSS.

VET Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS) | North Metropolitan TAFE

Year 10 Students - Cert III in Cyber Security Course for 2026

If you are interested in IT, Cyber Security and applying for the Cert III in Cyber Security Course for 2026 VETDSS (One day a week) please fill out the Expression of Interest form in the Careers Centre.
There are 18 exclusive places reserved for BCC students at North Metro Tafe commencing in 2026. These spots will fill FAST so be quick!!  See Information about the course below.  If you have any questions please see Mrs Novotny in the Careers Centre.

Gemma Novotny - Head of Careers & VET

Defence Work Experience Program – A Day in the Life of a Soldier – Irwin Barracks

Congratulations to Ellie Scoulidis and Noah Jones who have been accepted into the Defence Work Experience Program. This opportunity will provide participants with an insight into the wide range of Army trades and associated career options with the Australian Army Reserve. Ellie (Senior Ranger in BCC Police Rangers Cadet Program) and Noah will be involved in demonstrations, presentations, and practical activities hosted by a range of 13 Brigade units. Both students will have the opportunity to speak with Army personnel from a range of areas to gain information about their roles, careers, and experiences in Defence.

Noah & Ellie

 ‘We are excited to take part in this defence career day as it will be an opportunity to experience a day of learning and development of different skills. We hope to expand our knowledge of the ADF and what is has to offer."

Gemma Novotny - Head of Careers & VET

IMPACT News

IMPACT is a specialised program designed to engage Year 11 and 12 students in learning, that supports their transition to training and/or employment. This includes apprenticeships, traineeships, and placements in courses at TAFE or private RTOs. IMPACT aims to equip students with the skills and abilities they need to;-

• Lead a fulfilling life and contribute positively to society
• Feel happy, confident and valued.
• Build resilience and develop positive relationships with others
• Work toward achieving WACE by end of Year 12
• Transition to training or employment

Current Year 10 students can apply for the IMPACT program for 2026 by selecting the program during the subject selection process. As places are limited, the school will select students based on their individual needs that will engage in this Program to maximise their success.

Contact us about our IMPACT program here:

https://www.bcc.wa.edu.au/course/impact-engagement-transition/

IMPACT Students

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Student Success

Impact Year 11

Electrotechnology for Jet Weibrands!

Congratulations to Jet Weibrands!

We are thrilled to announce that Jet has successfully secured a place in the highly sought-after Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Pre-Apprenticeship) Course at CET College of Electrical Training. This competitive course, which commences in semester two, will be held one day a week whilst Jet continues to engage in the IMPACT Program.

We are incredibly proud of Jet's achievement and look forward to seeing him progress towards achieving this qualification.

Beauty Services Course for Milan Purdy

Congratulations to Milan Purdy!

We are thrilled to announce that Milan Purdy has successfully secured a place in the Certificate II in Beauty Services Course at North Metro TAFE. This full-time course will commence in Semester two and will see Milan successful transition out of the IMPACT Program into an alternate pathway to continue her enthusiasm for learning.

We are incredibly proud of Milan's achievement and wish her continued success and happiness in her future endeavours.

Impact Year 12

Congratulations to Jessica Jolly!

We are thrilled to announce that Jessica Jolly has successfully secured employment, marking a significant milestone as she transitions out of school this term. Jessica's enthusiastic engagement with her workplace at the Salvation Army allowed her to gain invaluable employability skills, which in turn opened up exciting employment opportunities.

In addition to her new job, Jessica has been accepted into North Metro TAFE to pursue a Certificate II in Career Development.

The IMPACT Team wishes Jessica all the best for her future endeavours and continued success and happiness.

L-R Jessica Jolly - Jet Wiebrands - Milan Purdy

ACTIV Pathways Partnership

Ballajura Community College has been selected to partner with ACTIV Pathways to deliver a Certificate II in Retail Services to students in our IMPACT Program. This is an incredible opportunity for our students designed as a pre-employment pathway, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become Retail Ready.

Our IMPACT students will complete the Certificate II in Retail Services on our campus and will learn how to merchandise, market, sell, and control stock, as well as gain valuable skills in customer service, communication, and teamwork. Students participated in an information session earlier this term in preparation for the commencement of the course in Semester two.

Gemma Novotny - Head of Careers & VET

STEM News

Up, Up and Away: Fizzics Education Brings Physics to Life!

Recently, some Year 8 and 9 students were treated to an energetic and inspiring incursion led by Fizzics Education presenter Peter, who took the science of flight to new heights — quite literally!

With perfect “smoke” rings, rocket simulations and an entertaining, dancing robot, Peter brought key physics concepts to life through some interactive demonstrations. Students were captivated as they explored the principles of flight, Bernoulli’s principle, and the surprisingly tricky skill of “catching air.”

Throughout the presentation, Peter connected each experiment to real-world applications — especially in the context of career opportunities in the defence and space industries. Students were introduced to AVISTA and AROSE, two groundbreaking Australian initiatives working at the frontier of space and robotics.

AVISTA (Autonomous Vehicle Information Systems and Technologies Advancement) and AROSE (Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth) are exciting programs bringing together industry, research and government to develop cutting-edge technologies — like remote operations, autonomous systems, and robotic control — used in space missions and defence applications here on Earth.

Peter highlighted how skills in science, technology, engineering and even gaming can be valuable in these emerging industries. Students (and many parents!) might be delighted to hear that time spent mastering gaming controllers could one day lead to remote piloting roles, robotic operations, or virtual reality training for real-world missions.

From piloting drones to programming autonomous vehicles, the pathways available to our students are expanding — and incursions like this help them imagine how far their interests might take them.

Dr Lucy Skillman - Head of Science

Congratulations - Kanato Etheridge

Kanato Etheridge - Year 10,  has been chosen to represent Western Australia at the upcoming Emerging Socceroos tournament in Melbourne during the July school holidays. This is a fantastic accomplishment for Kanato, who is sure to showcase his impressive football skills and we wish him and his team all the best for the tournament!

High School Experience

🎉 High School for a Day! 🎒✨

On Wednesday 2 July, Ballajura Community College proudly welcomed Year 6 students from Ballajura, Alinjarra, Illawarra, and South Ballajura Primary Schools for an exciting High School Experience Day!

From hands-on activities to fun new challenges, students got a sneak peek into what high school life is all about! They explored our vibrant campus, met our friendly staff, and made some awesome memories along the way.

We loved having them here and can’t wait to see these smiling faces again soon! 

Ashlyn MacLeod - Head of Student Services Years 7 & 8

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PISA In Your School - WA

The Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) is the world’s largest international comparative assessment and is one of the international assessments in Australia’s National Assessment Program (NAP).

PISA measures how well 15 year olds are prepared to use the skills and knowledge in particular areas to meet real-life challenges.

PISA will be administered at BCC on Thursday 7^th August 2025.  PISA is an age-based sample, and a selection of students enrolled born between 1 May 2009 and 30 April 2010, will be randomly chosen to participate.

Students will complete an online computer-based assessment (2 hours) including answering questions in one or more of the assessment domains (Science, Reading, Mathematics and Learning in a digital world), The questions are a mix of multiple choice, short written answers and interactive tasks.

Students will also complete a 45-minute questionnaire about their home background, aspects of their lives, such as their attitudes and motivation towards learning, availability and use of ICT. 

PISA results are then used to evaluate progress towards the Educational Goals for Young Australians and the National Education Agreement outcome that Australian students excel by international standards.  PISA will also then provide important information to monitor system-level achievement, inform educational policy, and understand the contexts in which students learn best.

Students do not need to do any special study to prepare for PISA.

All participating students will receive a Certificate and complimentary morning tea upon completion.

More information will be communicated to the selected students and their families early in Term 3.

Mrs Carmelina La Galia - Manager of Operations

Important Dates