One of the unique facets of working in a school is experiencing the cyclical nature of the academic year with a clear beginning and end. This cycle offers us a built-in moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate all that has been achieved, while also turning our eyes toward the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
As we began the year, we welcomed many new students and families to Helena College. Both campuses quickly filled with the energy of students forming new friendships, discovering their place in our community, and settling into the rhythm of school life. Now, looking back, I am incredibly proud of the growth our students have displayed academically, emotionally, and socially. I know parents and carers will have seen this growth reflected in their children as well.
At Helena College, we remain committed to providing a well-rounded, holistic education. Our diverse range of programs and opportunities is designed to help young people flourish in every aspect of their development. These experiences are made possible by the dedication of so many adults who contribute to our learning community in ways both seen and unseen. To every teacher, staff member, and parent volunteer: thank you. Whether you have supported sporting events, artistic performances, leadership programs, exhibitions, excursions, or any of the many activities that enrich our students’ days, your efforts make an immeasurable difference.
As the year concludes, we also take a moment to acknowledge and farewell staff members who have left or will be leaving the College. This year, we extend our thanks and best wishes to teachers Jasmin Jordan, Fabienne Clicteur, Thea O’Keeffe, Sandra-Lee Mackey, Chloe Biggerstaff, Rachel Ball, Karla Conway, Katherine Costall and electives teacher Steve Hartley, as well as support staff Alex Steffell, Brooke Powers, Nick Patriarca, and Jess de Gruchy.
A particularly warm acknowledgement goes to Peter Cummings, who will be retiring after many years of exceptional service to the College. Peter has been a wonderful teacher to so many of our Junior School students, and his contribution to our community will be long remembered. We wish him all the very best for a fulfilling and well-earned retirement.
I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Ty Theodore, Chair of the Helena College Council, and to all Council members for their strategic leadership and unwavering support for the College throughout this year.
As we approach the holiday season, I extend my warmest wishes to all students, families, and staff. May this time be filled with joy, rest, and special moments with your families. I look forward to welcoming students back to the Darlington and Glen Forrest Campuses on Monday, 2 February 2026, for another year of learning, growth, and discovery.
Peter Coombs
Principal | Helena College
Child Safe
Child Safe | Justin Pitt - Head of Senior Campus
Wishing Everyone a Happy and Safe Summer Break
The final bell has rung, the academic year has drawn to a close! I would like to wish all our Helena College students a safe and joyful summer break. Whether your plans involve digital adventures or enjoying physical activities and quality time outdoors, the College encourages you to prioritise your well-being. I encourage you to take time to recharge your batteries, pursue hobbies, enjoy physical activity, read for pleasure, and spend time with loved ones. If you’re engaging in online activities, remember to be kind, stay secure, and take breaks from the screen.
Remember to stay safe in all your activities, both online by practicing good digital citizenship, and in person by making responsible choices.
I would like to wish all members of the Helena community a wonderful summer break.
I look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for a new year!
Justin Pitt | Head of Senior Campus
Leadership
Director of Upper School
WISHING YOU A SAFE AND RELAXING HOLIDAY
As we conclude the 2025 school year, it is a perfect moment to reflect on the values that underpin our College and on the ways our students embody them daily.
Caring and compassion shine through as students tackle challenges, whether in the classroom or in their friendships. Integrity and responsibility are evident in their maturity in adapting to room changes for exams and camps. Respect for self, others, and our surroundings is displayed through the development of meaningful relationships and thoughtful behaviour, both in and beyond the classroom. Finally, inclusivity and participation are evident as students enthusiastically engage in leadership and learning opportunities offered at the College.
These values are woven into the fabric of our community and contribute to the calm and purposeful atmosphere that visitors to Helena frequently commend. It is through the collective efforts of staff, students, and families that this atmosphere continues to thrive.
I extend my sincere thanks to all parents and guardians for your unwavering support this year. Your engagement and open communication with the College are essential to our shared success. Together, we create an environment where students can achieve their best, and I am confident this partnership will continue to flourish in 2025.
To our 2025 Leavers and their families: I wish you every success as you embark on the next chapter of your journey. You will always be part of the Helena College family, and we look forward to hearing about your future achievements.
To all students, families, and staff, may your holiday season be filled with joy, relaxation, and the opportunity to recharge. I look forward to working with you in 2026.
Craig Hillman | Director of Upper School
YEAR 10 END-OF-YEAR DAY
Perfect weather, Homeroom-based games, friendly Inter-house competition, a juice box, and a cupcake. What a way to start the End of Year 10 Day last Friday.
After a quick outfit change into 'Festival Wear themed outfits, the students boarded the Party Buses for Point Fraser and a three-hour cruise on Perth Water.
A trip up and down the river to the tunes of the House DJ, a Subway lunch, slushies, soft drinks, sunscreen, and dancing was a wonderful way to send our Year 10s off on their summer holiday.
I extend my sincere thanks to Mrs Williams and Mrs Kelly in the Front Office for their hard work behind the scenes, and to the Year 10 Homeroom teachers for their support on the day.
I want to acknowledge the excellent behaviour of our Year 10s on the day. Boat owners, Jennifer and Justin, wrote to me and said, "We were just amazed at how well behaved and polite your Year 10 students were on the day. They are a credit to both their parents and Helena College."
MONDAY 2 FEBRUARY - FIRST DAY OF 2026 SCHOOL YEAR
Please support the College and aid your child's transition back to school by ensuring that hair, dress lengths, shirt size, shoes, jewellery, and other uniform standards are adhered to. We have a smart-looking, comfortable, and easy-to-wear uniform, and I thank families for their ongoing support of our College's values and standards.
REMINDER: SCHOOL SHOES
Black leather school shoe
Please remember that when purchasing school footwear for the new year, students must wear an acceptable black leather lace-up school shoe. Please remember this before you head out and score a bargain during the post-Christmas sales.
Our Uniform Policy states that the College expects all students to develop a high standard of dress. Please note that neither the Vans® style black leather or canvas shoe, the Nike Air Force 1, nor a Mary Jane style meets the high standard of dress expected by the College.
SKIRT/DRESS LENGTH
While the College values high uniform standards, it is undesirable to commit an excessive amount of time and resources to enforcing this policy at the expense of our core business, which is student learning. To this end, parental and student support is imperative for the College to maintain the uniform standards detailed in our Uniform Policy.
This is a timely reminder for students, parents, and guardians that the specified skirt/dress length should be just on top of the knee. Please use this holiday break to purchase a new skirt or dress, or adjust the length of existing items if required. Don't get caught short.
CLASS OF 2026 LEAVERS JACKETS
Wearing the Leavers jacket is both a symbol of belonging and a positive part of the Year 12 experience at Helena. The Class of 2026 Leavers Jacket is expected to be delivered in Week Two, Term One 2026. The design was created by our student Leavers Jacket Committee and approved by the College Executive.
Students will have their first name embroidered on the back of the Jacket – below the embroidered "Twenty 26 Leavers" logo. Students are NOT allowed to have a name or symbol embroidered on the Jacket after purchase. Gear Up Promotions will again provide our jackets. The GST–inclusive cost is $140. In addition, an instructional 'care' sheet will accompany the delivery of each Jacket to ensure it remains in good order throughout 2026.
Paying for the Leavers Jacket
All payments will be processed through the Front Office. Jackets must be paid for in full before they can be collected. The cost of the Jacket is not part of any previously arranged payment plan.
Our Year 11s voted on two designs and overwhelmingly selected the option below.
I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the excellent work done by our Leavers Jacket Committee and acknowledge the time and effort they put into the Jacket's design.
YEAR 12 RETREAT
Year 12s return to school on Sunday 1 February at 10.30 am. Students begin their school year with the Year 12 Retreat. The Retreat is designed to start the year on a positive note, enhance their study skills, refocus on the challenges ahead, and build a sense of group cohesiveness and identity.
Time - Students arrive at the College at 10.30 am in time for an 11.00 am departure.
Wear - Casual dress day guidelines apply at St George's and for university visits. Sun-smart beach attire is appropriate for Rottnest.
Things to bring.
Please be advised that St George's College supplies all bedding. A sleeping bag, a sheet to cover the mattress, and a pillowcase are optional.
Water bottle
Small daypack for Rottnest and university visits
Pen(s) for writing
Bathers and beach towel
Towel and soap
Comfortable clothes to cater for all weather (hot/cold)
Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent (if you don't like the College ones)
Personal medication (as prescribed by GP and stated on the medical form)
Mobile phone
Power board (to share between friends for charging phones, cameras, etc.)
Closed-in shoes for cycling while on Rottnest. (Students will not be allowed to ride if they don't bring closed-in shoes)
Bicycle helmets must be worn at all times whilst riding on Rottnest. If you don't want to wear the Rottnest Express hire helmets, please bring your own helmet, and ensure it's with your day pack on Monday.
Snacks
Money for free time expenses on Rottnest, as well as for LUNCH ON MONDAY and TUESDAY
Remember to: Sign the e-permission form.
Year 12 Retreat FAQs
Is the Year 12 Retreat compulsory?
All camps at Helena are compulsory. It's a fantastic opportunity for students to come together, create lasting memories, and make the most of their final year at school.
Why is the camp in the School Holidays?
The Year 12 Retreat has always taken place during the school holidays. While there were a couple of exceptions in 2020, 2021 (Covid affected), and 2022, the Retreat has been held before the start of the school year or in the second week of the September School holidays.
Why did it move?
Great question! We made the shift because we removed the academic year rollover. Semester Two Exams/WPL are scheduled in the second week of the September/October holidays.
Why are students not staying on Rottnest?
Rottnest is fantastic, but during the holiday period, bookings for school groups are not available
CLASS OF 2026 STUDENT DRIVERS – A REMINDER
Any Year 12 student of legal driving age who intends to drive to school, either regularly or occasionally, must comply with the College policy and is required to complete the student vehicle permission form. The form can be downloaded from my.helena. In addition, the parent of any passenger in that vehicle must also give their permission to travel in said vehicle.
Driving to school is a privilege, not a right, and it carries with it several responsibilities outlined in the following conditions, along with the general duty of care.
Owing to the restricted number of parking bays, only Year 12 students may park their vehicle on the College grounds and only in the calendar year they graduate. Students are required to adhere to all road rules and drive safely and responsibly.
Students are only to use their car for travelling to and from school and must seek permission to access their vehicle during school hours.
The speed limit upon entry to the school is 10kph.
Students are not permitted to drive out of the school grounds during the day (except during examination periods after an exam has finished). The car's make and registration details must be recorded with the school.
A complete list of conditions and Vehicle Permission Forms are also available from the GFC administration. Thank you in advance for your understanding and for helping us manage the traffic flow on the Glen Forrest Campus.
2026 Student Council
I am sure that our 2026 Student Councillors will enjoy their well-deserved break before the new school year begins. I look forward to seeing them grow and develop, and how their efforts translate into an even better student experience for students at the College.
ECU Summer of STEM: 21 -23 January 2026
ECU's School of Science is offering a multi-day holiday program that provides teenagers interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) with an opportunity to engage in a variety of interactive workshops at their Joondalup or Bunbury campuses.
The holiday program runs from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm daily, is suited to ages 14+, and costs $190pp.
2026 JANUARY HOLIDAY HEAD START COURSES – ACADEMIC ASSOCIATES
ATAR Head Start Courses for Years 11 and 12
Increase your understanding and confidence and start your Year 11 and 12 studies with an academic boost in Academic Task Force's Head Start Courses. They offer 6-hour courses (3 hours a day, over 2 days) in Year 11 and 12 ATAR subjects, as well as Essay Writing and Study Skills.
Start your Year 11 and 12 studies with an academic boost.
Gain an overview of the syllabus for your courses of study.
Preview important concepts.
Venues: Academic Group Applecross Office, All Saint's College, Churchland's SHS & Online.
As we reach the final days of the 2025 school year, I would like to pause and offer my gratitude to every member of our Junior School community. Your support, involvement and partnership continue to shape the rich educational experience we strive to provide.
School Holidays
The upcoming break presents a wonderful chance for students to recharge and continue growing in ways that complement their learning at school. Holidays create space for families to reconnect, explore and enjoy time together - moments that often become the most treasured memories.
It is worth remembering that unstructured play and even moments of boredom are not only normal, but incredibly valuable. Child development research consistently highlights the importance of screen-free downtime in strengthening creativity, problem-solving, imagination and physical development. Simple activities (camping out in the backyard, planning a small celebration, building a cubby house from blankets) can spark confidence and independence in ways that formal learning cannot.
Reflecting on Learning
The Semester Two student reports offers an opportunity to reflect on your child’s growth over the year. These reports are designed to celebrate progress while identifying areas for continued development. As always, a “Satisfactory” or “C” grade represents sound achievement and indicates that your child is meeting the expected standards for their year level (an achievement to be celebrated).
Carols Evening
Our Carols Evening at the Glen Forrest Campus on Friday 28 November was a truly memorable event. I extend my sincere appreciation to all who contributed their time and energy to bringing this celebration to life.
Santa’s “surprise visit” and his Elf helpers added an extra touch of excitement, but the real joy came from seeing our students dance and shine on stage through their performances. The staff act was also met with much enthusiasm - and we had great fun presenting it!
Thank you to all who attended and helped create such a warm and festive atmosphere. A special acknowledgment goes to our Performing Arts teacher, Alysha Emanuele, whose passion and commitment were central to the event’s success, as well as Miss Mersdaes who can work magic with the teachers! To see some great photos from the night, look for our article on the Carols Concert.
Year 5 Celebration (Evening of Innovation)
On Tuesday 9 December, we had the pleasure of marking a significant milestone for our Year 5 students. The Celebration Evening was filled with energy and pride as families explored student displays, watched a wonderful student-led production, and joined us in recognising our student leaders through awards and certificates. A selection of photos have been shared below this article.
It was a meaningful send-off that honoured the achievements of our Year 5 cohort as they prepare to transition to the Senior School at GFC. We wish each student every success as they embark on this exciting next chapter.
Farewells and New Beginnings
At the conclusion of 2025, we will say farewell to Mr Peter Cumming as he steps away from his Year 4 classroom role to begin a very well-earned period of long service leave. We look forward to welcoming Peter back in various capacities throughout 2026.
We also farewell Mrs Jessica de Gruchy, who joined our Administration team in Semester Two during Louise Selim’s long service leave. Jess made a wonderful contribution during her brief time with us, and we thank her sincerely for all she has done.
Also, to the families and students departing Helena College at year’s end, we offer our warmest wishes and thank you for the many ways you have enriched our community. At the same time, we look forward to welcoming new families joining us in 2026.
Final Reflective Thoughts
It is a privilege to serve as part of this vibrant, caring Junior School community.
Thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and partnership throughout the year. As we enter the summer holidays, I hope your family enjoys rest, time together and plenty of fun.
I look forward to seeing you all again in the new year.
Wishing you a safe, refreshing and joyful holiday season.
Warm regards
Greg Miller | Head of Junior School - Kindergarten to Year 5
Following the school’s recent announcement, I wanted to share my own short personal note of farewell as I retire from full-time teaching at Helena College. As I reflect on my years here, I feel incredibly grateful for the many families and children who have been part of my working life since I first began teaching. It has been a privilege to meet, teach, and support so many students as they grew in confidence and in their love of learning—whatever their starting point.
Thank you for the trust, kindness, and support you have shown me throughout the years. The connections we’ve built and the moments shared in classrooms and conversations are memories I will carry with me always.
Although I am stepping away from full-time teaching, I do hope to stay in touch with the Helena community through some casual work during my transition into full retirement. I’m also looking forward to spending more time with my family and embracing the next chapters of life.
I wish every student and family continued happiness, good health, and success. Thank you all for being such a meaningful part of my teaching and life journey.
Warmest regards, Peter Cumming (Mr C)👨🏻🎓
Student News
Student News
Helena College Cyclists Shine at the WA State Track Championships
Helena College is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of three of our talented student cyclists, Maddie P, Ellah T, and Matthew S who delivered exceptional performances at the WA State Track Championships, held from Friday 5 December to Sunday 7 December at the WA Speed Dome.
The State Championships are one of Western Australia’s premier cycling events, bringing together riders from across the state for three days of fast, technically demanding, high-pressure competition. This year’s program featured approximately 110 races spanning multiple age categories and disciplines, including the Keirin, Sprint, Time Trial, Individual Pursuit, and Scratch Race. These events require skill, tactical awareness, speed, and above all, resilience — all qualities that our Helena College students displayed in abundance.
Helena College has a long-standing affiliation with X-Speed Track Cycling Club, whose coaches play a significant role in developing many of our student athletes. This partnership continues to foster not only athletic excellence but also strong values around teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
Across the weekend, Maddie, Ellah and Matthew excelled in the high-pressure racing environment, earning an impressive collection of gold, silver and bronze medals between them in the U15 and U19 divisions. Their success reflects countless hours of training, commitment to personal improvement, and an admirable ability to perform under intense competition.
As they now turn their attention to the National Championships in Queensland in March next year, our riders carry with them both the pride of the Helena College community and the momentum of their outstanding State results. We are excited to see how they continue to grow and challenge themselves on the national stage.
As a school community, we are immensely proud of these students. They have displayed determination, resilience, and stellar sportsmanship, and they continue to stand as role models within our College. We look forward, with great excitement, to following their progress as these emerging athletes pursue their sporting aspirations with passion and purpose.
Sam Elliott-Smart | Year 9
We are thrilled to share that Sam Elliott-Smart has again been selected to represent Western Australia in the National Futsal Competition (Indoor Soccer) taking place in Sydney in January, after representing Australia in Italy this year. We are super proud of Sam’s success!
Admin Notices
Uniform Shop News
Second-hand Uniform Shop
The Second-hand Uniform Shop, coordinated by the Friends of Helena group, is located on our Darlington Campus. The shop has a range of pre-loved College and sports uniforms, bags, textbooks, calculators and more for students from Kindy to Year 12.
The Second-hand Uniform Shop (located at the Darlington Campus) will be open on the following dates:
Friday 5 December | 3 pm - 3.45 pm
Monday 8 December | 9 am - 9.45 am
Wednesday 21 January | 9 am - 10.30 am
Thursday 29 January | 9 am - 10.30 am
Tuesday 3 February | 9 am - 9.45 am
The Second-hand Uniform Shop is reliant on volunteers - and volunteering is a great way to get to know the College community. If you would like more information on becoming a volunteer, please email communications@helena.wa.edu.au.
The Midland Line will undergo a shutdown between Bassendean and Midland stations from first service on Thursday 22 January until approximately 9.30am on Sunday 22 February to facilitate essential maintenance works to prepare for the opening of the new Midland Station.
During the shutdown, train replacement buses will operate between Bassendean and Midland stations. Trains between Perth and Bassendean will operate to timetabled services.
These changes may impact how your students travel to school so it is important for them to understand the potential impacts to their school commute when they return to school in 2026. Staff may also be impacted.
We encourage all staff and students to visit the Transperth website two weeks prior to returning to school in 2026 to plan their journey, to ensure they are familiar with the train replacement buses operating and bus departure stand changes.
Full train services will resume from the start of timetabled services on Monday 23 February.
Earlier this year parents and carers were asked to complete a feedback survey about their experience with the College. Results of the survey will be shared with the community during Term One next year. One question on the survey asked for input on a possible move to having a three-week school break in the middle of the year, which would be accommodated by beginning the school year earlier.
We received 207 responses to this question, with 86.5% of respondents supporting this change. Given this level of support, we will move forward with introducing a three-week break in the middle of the year from 2027. The final day of Semester One will be Friday 25 June, and school will resume on Monday 19 July. The 2027 school year will begin in the final week of January, following the Australia Day public holiday.
Junior School | Darlington Campus
Carols Concert
Recently our Junior School students from Kindy to Year 5 were thrilled to perform at their Carols Concert. Our Helena families gathered - dressed up in their brightest festive colours - for the occasion. It was a great evening with plenty of fun, laughs and memorable moments. From carol favourites to sing-alongs there was something for all audience members to enjoy. A welcome taste of the Christmas season as we slowly wind down towards the end of the school year. Well done to all our performers - including the special visit from Santa and a fun performance from staff!
The Year 4 students were visited by Sally Herzfeld and the ‘Women Together’ group from the Edmund Rice Centre. The group shared their wonderful and diverse cultureswith our students and explained how their experiences have shaped them growing up. The Year 4s joined in numerous activities teaching them the importance of culture within a community and celebrating both the similarities and the differences.
As part of the Junior School Electives Program, our Art tutor, Mrs Marie Jacquier, leads both the Visual Arts and Create & Make classes.
The Visual Arts Elective invites students to explore the creative process through a wide range of artistic experiences, including painting, drawing, sculpture and textile art.
In Create & Make, students enjoy hands-on, three-dimensional art projects that encourage creativity, imagination and problem-solving.
This semester has been a vibrant one in the Art Room. Our Create & Make students worked enthusiastically on their Dream Time Trees and other Dreamtime-inspired creatures, which were submitted to the Darlington Arts Festival (DAF). A special congratulations goes to Isla Laidley (Year 2), who received the Mikaylah Rose Award for her beautiful entry.
Our Visual Arts students also spent the semester developing dreamscape-themed paintings, which were proudly displayed at the DAF. It was wonderful to see our students’ creativity recognised and celebrated within the wider community.
Senior School | Glen Forrest Campus
Basketball Slam Finalists!
This week our Year 6 Pool C Girls Team competed at their Basketball Slam Finals at the Bendat Basketball Centre. Congratulations to our Year 6 Girls team on finishing 3rd in their pool. It is a huge achievement for our Year 6 Girls team, and to see how far they have come since their Slam Competition has been quite an accomplishment for our young athletes.
Book in a Day WINNERS!
We are thrilled to announce that our Year 9 team from the Book in a Day competition had their book 'The Desert Echoes in Stone’ shortlisted and has now gone on to win two awards in the Middle School category as the “Best Book WA” and “Best Book National.” The book was selected from a pool of 2,258 entries with over 16,661 participants across 569 Australian schools within the competition. It is an extraordinary achievement for our Year 9 team consisting of Alicia, Faith, Poppy, Eloise, Sienna and Chelsea who not only have a finished book, but have raised money in the process for the Kids’ Cancer Council. Well done to our Year 9 team on such an amazing achievement!
Lawn Bowls
Recently our Year 10 Physical Recreation students headed out to learn more about the sport of lawn bowls. The Glen Forrest Bowls Club have kindly let our students use their recently upgraded facility to practice. Our Year 10s were grateful to have David Gallagher provide access and teach our students the basics to help them get started. The students had a wonderful time out on the green with perfect weather making it a great experience. Helena College's connection with the Bowls Club has been a fantastic asset over the years, in helping our Phys Ed department introduce lawn bowls to our students, and hopefully inspiring a new generation of players to the sport.
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Education has come to an end for the year but not before one final lot of excursions. The Year 10 roping classes culminated their semester of climbing and abseiling with a whole day excursion to Stathams Quarry where they took on the challenge of abseiling the main face and overhang before moving onto some climbing and learning a new skill called prussicking.
Well done to all those involved!
Joel Cullen | Outdoor Education Teacher
Treasure not Trash
Our Year 6 students recently took on the exciting ’Treasure not Trash’ event as part of their Economics and Business Unit. This event allows our students to put their ideas and selling points into real-world experiences. Over two weeks our Year 6s planned, researched and built up their own businesses. With a goal of gaining the most purchases the students put their skills to the test. We were thrilled to have our Year 5 students join in on the event and experience it first-hand. It was an engaging project that let the Year 6 students work together in a creative environment and have the opportunity to see what it's like to run a business.
We warmly welcome all new and current parents to join us for our Parent and Staff Sundowner, to be held in Term One, Week Five. This relaxed evening is a wonderful opportunity to meet other families, connect with staff, and celebrate the start of a new school year together. Whether you're new to our community or returning for another great year, we look forward to sharing a casual and enjoyable night with you. We hope to see you there!
Old Helenians
Old Helenian Reunions
Noticeboard
Noticeboard
Employment Opportunity at Helena College | Science Laboratory Technician
We are looking for an enthusiastic Science Laboratory Technician. Permanent part-time (30 hours per week, term time only). Click here for full details.
Community Notice Board
Disclaimer: Inclusion in the Helena College Noticeboard is at the College's discretion and does not imply endorsement. Information for listings is supplied by third-party participants and organisations, with sole responsibility for the accuracy and further use.
