Our school year is well underway now and I hope that all students are finding their way and settling into this new school year.
Parent Information Sessions
It has been a pleasure to see so many parents and carers join us on both campuses to learn more about the year ahead. The Junior School parent information sessions provided a terrific opportunity for families to hear from their child’s classroom teacher about the program for the year and how they can support their child’s learning journey.
In the Senior School, many Year 12 students and their parents attended a family information session focused on navigating what is a very busy and important year. This included guidance on the requirements for achieving the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) and information about university applications for those considering this pathway.
Our Meet the Teacher evening was also very well attended, with parents and carers from Years 6–9 coming along to hear from Heads of Year and classroom teachers about their child’s learning program. Finally, this week we held an information session for Year 10 families outlining the Upper School program for Years 10–12.
These evenings are an important part of our commitment to keeping parents and carers informed as we strive to fulfil our mission of engaging with families as partners in the educational process.
Parent and Carer Feedback Survey 2025
Thank you to all parents and carers who took the time to complete the 2025 Parent and Carer Feedback Survey last year. The College received a strong level of engagement, with 207 responses, providing valuable insight into what is working well and where we can continue to improve.
Overall, the results show high levels of confidence in Helena College. Parents consistently reported that their children feel safe at school and that teachers care about students and are effective in supporting learning. There was also strong agreement that the College fosters a positive and inclusive culture, and that families feel comfortable approaching staff with questions or concerns.
The survey used a 5-point scale, with Strongly Agree rated as 5, Neither Agree or Disagree as 3, and Strongly Disagree as 1. On this scale, an average above 3.2 is considered to reflect a positive response, while an average below 3.0 indicates an area of concern.
There were 23 rated statements in the survey. The ten highest average responses were:
My child feels safe at school – 4.39
My child has access to the resources and materials needed for learning – 4.24
My Year 12 student has received an appropriate level of information regarding tertiary education and other post-school options beyond Helena College – 4.24
My child finds Helena College teachers approachable – 4.20
I feel comfortable approaching College staff with questions or concerns – 4.06
I am satisfied with the overall quality of education my child receives at Helena College – 4.06
The curriculum provides the appropriate level of academic challenge for my child – 4.05
Helena College promotes respect, inclusiveness and a positive culture – 4.04
I would recommend Helena College to other families – 4.00
Teachers at Helena College are effective in helping my child learn. – 3.95
The five lowest average responses were:
Teachers at Helena College care about their students – 3.76
College Executive is effective in managing the school – 3.69
(Years 10 - 12) My child is receiving an appropriate level of information regarding potential careers after Helena College – 3.38
The College addresses poor student behaviour appropriately – 3.22
I am satisfied with the current uniform options – 2.96
The survey also included two open-ended questions, inviting parents and carers to share what the College does well and where improvements could be made. A consistent theme across responses was the sense of community and belonging at Helena College. Many parents described the College as inclusive, supportive, and family-oriented, and valued its size, location, and non-religious setting.
Suggested areas for improvement included the comfort, practicality, and affordability of the school uniform, concerns about student use of technology at school, improvements to school buildings, facilities and pathways, a wider range of sporting opportunities, and greater consistency of engagement between teachers and students.
Information from this survey has been reviewed by the Executive Team and the College Council, and will help guide future decisions as we continue to improve the experience for students and families at Helena College.
Peter Coombs | Principal
Child Safe
Head of Senior Campus | Justin Pitt
Helena College Commitment to Child Safety
As we kick off the new school year, our top priority at the College remains the safety and wellbeing of every student in our care. We believe that a safe environment is the foundation of great learning, and we’ve hit the ground running with several key initiatives to ensure our students feel safe and supported as they start the new academic year.
Staff Training
During the week leading up to the start of term, our entire staff team has successfully completed their annual Child Safe Training. This ensures that every teacher, administrator, and support staff member understands Mandatory Reporting laws and is up-to-date with the latest legislative requirements.
Empowering Our Students
We were pleased to welcome WACSS (W.A. Child Safety Services) to our campus on the first day of school for a series of student workshops. These age-appropriate sessions focused on respectful relationships, recognising abuse and consent education. We encourage Year 7 and 9 parents to chat with their children about what they learned in their WACSS workshops and reinforce who their trusted adults are, both at school and at home.
Student Induction Days
During the first week all students are inducted into their new year group. All students participated in extended homerooms discussing the Helena College Student Code of Conduct and specific school policies. Students spent time discussing not just the school rules, but why they are needed to ensure all students understand the importance of respect for self, others and the environment.
Most importantly, we also focused on how to raise a concern. Every student should know that their voice matters and has the right to feel and be safe.
Wishing all students a safe a successful transition into their new year group.
Justin Pitt | Head of Senior Campus
Leadership
Head of Junior School | Greg Miller
A bright beginning to 2026…
There is something special about the start of a new school year - fresh classrooms, new friendships forming, goals being set, and a shared sense of possibility. It has been wonderful to see our Junior School come alive again as students, families and staff returned ready for Term One.
Our students have begun 2026 with enthusiasm, positivity and a genuine eagerness to learn. Classrooms are buzzing with curiosity, collaboration and creativity. Even with our typically warm summer days, students have demonstrated resilience and energy as they settle into new routines and expectations.
A very special welcome goes to our Kindergarten students as they begin their school journey with us. Starting school is a significant milestone, and it has been a joy to see their smiles, growing independence and excitement. Our Pre-Primary students have also embraced their new leadership status within the Early Learning Centre - they truly look like the ‘big kids’ now!
Thank you to the many parents who attended our recent Parent Information Evenings. Strong partnerships between home and school are at the heart of student success, and your engagement makes a real difference. If you were unable to attend, please ensure you connect with your child’s classroom teacher and obtain the relevant year-level information booklet.
As we move further into Term One, students are encouraged to embrace a wide range of learning opportunities - in the classroom, specialist programs, in sport and co-curricular activities, and through events that strengthen our community. The year moves quickly, and each term brings moments that shape students’ confidence, character and capability.
Having now spent over three decades in education, I remain as passionate as ever about creating environments where children feel known, supported and inspired to achieve their best. It is a privilege to lead our Junior School alongside supportive families and staff who work with dedication, care and professionalism. For specific school-related matters, please feel free to contact the College. Your child’s classroom teacher will usually be the most appropriate first person to speak with, and can support you from there if further guidance is needed. Together, we can be proud of the culture of learning and enjoyment that exists across the Junior School.
Thank you for the positive start to 2026. Together, we will continue to build a Junior School community defined by high expectations, strong relationships and a shared commitment to helping every student flourish.
Wishing everyone a rewarding year ahead.
Kind regards
Greg Miller | Head of Junior School Kindergarten to Year 5
Year 12 Students may drive to school as a matter of privilege, not of right. To be registered to park, students must register their vehicles by completing and returning a Student Vehicle/Driving Permission Form and a copy of their licence to the Administration Office. The form is available in the Administration Office and via my.helena> Year 12 Communications - Parents and Students> BOOKLIST | 2026 & other files.
There is a strict 10km/h speed limit on campus. Student Drivers are to park in the Year 12 Carpark located between the College Oval and Bilgoman Road.
If passengers are to be in the vehicle, their names must also appear on the form, along with an accompanying parent signature indicating permission. Any changes to previously registered details (e.g., new passengers, new make/model, etc.) must be re-registered on a new Student Vehicle/Driving Permission Form.
Only Year 12 Students may park on campus and must park in the student parking area. Unfortunately, there is not space for Year 11 students to park on campus.
Year 12 Retreat
Our Class of 2026 started their final school year on a bright and warm Sunday morning. Following the Coach ride to St George’s, our Year 12s and their Homeroom teachers settled into their digs before sitting down to a feast for lunch in the Hogwarts-esque Dining Hall. A post-lunch workshop in the Junior Common Room invited our Year 12s to explore what it takes to ensure Senior School Success.
For the rest of the afternoon, students read, talked and revisited their Tabloid Sports skills through a bit of friendly House rivalry during Leaderball and Tunnel Ball games. After Dinner, we tried out a few 'stress-busting' ideas under the stars and fairy lights in the Quad before students explored their best possible selves and dream jobs.
Monday was all about Wadjemup. Upon arrival, we acknowledged that Whadjuk people know Rottnest Island as the resting place of the spirits. Whadjuk people were present at the end of the last ice age when sea levels rose and formed the islands off the Fremantle coast. Whadjuk people observed this significant geological event and recorded it in their oral histories. These stories have been passed down from one generation to the next for over 7,000 years.
The day was a hot one on the island. We rode/raced around Rottnest, took quokka selfies, surfed (or continued to ride around the hot roads), snorkelled, swam, drank good coffee, and frequented the famed Rottnest Bakery, while some continued to ride. After returning to St George’s for a beautiful dinner, we explored the concepts of gratitude, awe, laughter, and character strengths as techniques to nurture our wellbeing.
On Tuesday, we visited UWA and Curtin University. At Curtin, students sat in a Business Marketing lecture. The lecture's purpose was to challenge our thinking about the humble Aussie pie and whether it translates as a viable product in different markets, and it certainly did that. The bus ride home to Helena was quiet after a busy few days. The Retreat was a great way to start what will be a memorable and rewarding 2026.
Year 10 Family Information Evening
We had a great turnout at the Welcome to Upper School presentation. Some of the key takeaway messages were:
There is lots of information and ways to help you monitor your child’s progress: by accessing my.helena, Academic Reports, attending Parent/Student/ Teacher conferences, contacting your child’s Classroom Teacher, the HOD, and/or the Director of Upper School.
There is lots of support in the classroom and via the Academic Support sessions run by Departments (see handout).
Students are working on transferable Employability skills to help them navigate the modern world of work.
Save the date. 2026 Year 11 Course Selection Evening. Tuesday, 22 July @ 6.30 pm.
Work Experience and Camp dates (Weeks Nine and Ten of Term Three)
End of Year Celebration Day, Friday, 5 December. This is the social event of the year and includes a three-hour River Cruise, including lunch aboard the River Bells
If you could not make it to the evening, the slides and handouts are available on the my.helena Year 10 Communications - Parents and Students page and my.helena News Feed.
Year 11 and 12 Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences
Thursday, 19 March, in the GFC Gymnasium from 3.45 pm to 7.30 pm.
The College encourages all parents/guardians of Year 11 and Year 12 students to attend the Parent/Student/Teacher interviews in Week Eight. The evening will allow families to discuss individual academic progress and maintain an overview of their child’s achievement.
To help frame those discussions, Interim Reports will be made available to Year 11 and 12 students and families in Week Six.
Please be aware that if any changes need to be made to Semester One courses following the interviews, the window for those changes closes on Wednesday, 25 March.
Booking information will be made available closer to the date.
Year 11 Dinner Cruise
Time: 6.45 pm drop-off at Barrack Street Jetty. 10.00 pm pick-up. Dress: Semi-formal/ Evening Mocktail. Cost: TBC. Permission and payment will be sent through the Parent Lounge.
The ticket price includes the three-hour River cruise aboard the Crystal Swan, buffet meal service, DJ, photo booth and bottomless soft drink.
The school day will finish at 3.15 pm on Wednesday, 1 April. There is NO school for Year 11s on Thursday, 2 April.
Please note that students having their nails done for the occasion can wear them to school during the week leading up to the event and until the school holidays. Hair must remain a natural colour in line with the uniform policy.
To ensure this event is enjoyable, we would like to inform students that all school rules and expectations about behaviour apply to this event. If there are any concerns about students' behaviour, especially those about smoking, intoxicants, and illicit drug use. In that case, we will place those involved in a taxi to be returned home at the parents' or guardians' expense.
We would also like to point out that the school does not sanction any post-celebration party.
Year 12 Senior Ball
Just a reminder, ALL Year 12 students are expected to stay at school on the day of the ball until 12.15 pm. Please make sure all hairdresser appointments, etc., are in the afternoon on that day. Be organised in advance with everything you need to do for the Ball, so you can focus on your study program.
Please note that students having their nails done for the occasion can wear them to school during the week leading up to the event. Hair must remain a natural colour in line with the uniform policy.
More information about the Ball, including ticket prices, will be published soon.
Uniform Reminders
Skirt, Dress and College Short Length
While the College values high uniform standards, it is undesirable to commit an excessive amount of time and resources to enforce 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, and Navy College shorts length should be just above the knee. Please amend the length of these uniform items or purchase new ones if required. Don't get caught short.
Black Leather School Shoes Please remember that students must wear an acceptable black leather lace-up school shoe.
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.
Careers Information
Girls + Engineering Tomorrow (GET) for 2026
Applications close 5 April 2026
The GET Network is a ten-session program designed to support and inspire girls and non-binary students in Years 11 & 12 interested in exploring engineering. The program runs over Terms 2 & 3 at Curtin University on Saturday mornings, providing study support and opportunities to explore engineering through engaging workshops, mentors and study pathways.
The program will offer an opportunity to:
Meet like-minded peers
Meet industry role models
Connect with our university Student Mentors
Participate in a range of engineering-themed activities and workshops
Learn about engineering courses and careers
The program runs on Saturday mornings from May to September. Find details HERE.
Live Parent Webinar: How You Can Help Your Child Manage Their Time
This is a helpful collation of information that Curtin career staff think future students might need.
Career quiz
Study tips
Glossary of university language
Study areas and course explanations
This 150-page online booklet is useful even if you DON’T want to go to Curtin. Check it out HERE.
2026 Medicine - University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) Dates If you want to apply for medicine for 2027 you will need to undertake a UCAT assessment.
These are the important dates for UCAT in 2026. Deadline times are 11.59pm AEST - Australian Eastern Standard Time
Curtin Casper Test for Medical Entry 1-on-1 Casper Test Preparation Tuition
Designed specifically for Curtin University Medical Entry (and other Casper-requiring programs), this individualised training session provides intensive, hands-on learning.
During a 2-hour one-on-one session, students work directly with Rebekah Ramsey to:
Practise realistic Casper question types and scenarios.
Master the 14-scenario format and timed open-ended responses.
Understand best practices for on-camera recorded responses.
Receive personalised, detailed feedback on answers and delivery.
Improve confidence, timing, and communication clarity under pressure.
This focused tuition helps students respond effectively and confidently to Casper questions — both written and video-based.
There are many scholarships available for super smart kids, for people with special needs, for industries like trades and jewellery making and insurance industry scholarships.
WA Police Recruitment Sessions. Are you interested in learning more about a career with the WA Police Force?
Recruitment information sessions are held at the WA Police Force Academy in Joondalup, where you can learn more about the application process and life as a police officer.
The Recruiting Team will provide an overview of the selection process and training requirements.
Police Cadets Australian or New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Australian Resident aged between 17 and 19. Please note, applicants can apply at 16; however, they must be 17 years old upon selection to a Cadet school. Find details HERE.
Year 10
TISC University Admissions 2028 This information is issued on behalf of the five Western Australian universities. Its aim is to help Year 10 students to decide on their senior school courses, so that they meet university admission requirements.
Remember to choose courses which will allow entry to a wide range of university courses.
WAAPA Junior Academy for Secondary School Students The WAAPA Junior Academy is designed specifically for young people who have a passion for performing.
NB. There will only be 3 terms in 2026 due to WAAPA moving to the new City Campus.
You can find information about the 2026 schedule HERE.
Staff News
Welcome to New Staff
We are pleased to welcome the following new staff to Glen Forrest Campus.
Joanna Anderson | Education Assistant - Learning Support
Miranda Thorn | Physical Education & Health Teacher
Get Ready to Make Some Noise
Ben Cromie | Drumming Tutor
We are delighted to welcome Mr Ben Cromie, a Perth-based drummer, percussionist and composer, as our Drum and Percussion Tutor for 2026 across both the Junior and Senior Campuses.
Ben is currently completing his final year of study at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) and performs across a wide range of styles, including orchestral repertoire, jazz and musical theatre. He recently completed an exchange program at the Frost School of Music in Miami—an invaluable experience that enabled him to collaborate with outstanding musicians from around the world.
During his time overseas, Ben specialised in Cuban drumming styles under the direction of Grammy Award–winning artist Dafnis Prieto. This experience has given him a fresh and inspiring approach to music and creativity, which he is excited to share with students.
In addition to his teaching and studies, Ben has recently released his debut album of original compositions, recorded with an exceptional group of musicians he worked with while in Miami.
Ben commenced lessons with students this week across both campuses. We warmly welcome him to our community and look forward to the expertise and enthusiasm he brings to our music program.
Student News
Student Spotlight
We love celebrating our students’ accomplishments both inside and outside the classroom! If your child has recently achieved something special, such as earning an award, winning a competition, performing in a recital, participating in community service, or reaching a personal milestone, we would be thrilled to share the news in our upcoming newsletters.
Please send a brief description of the achievement, along with your child’s name, year, and (if you’d like) a photo, so we can recognise their hard work and dedication.
Thank you for helping us highlight the many talents and successes of our school community! Email newsletter@helena.wa.edu.au.
Beth D | Year 8
Congratulations Beth for completing your fourth Starlight Super Swim. Starlight Children's Foundation Australia is Australia's broadest reaching children's charity working in partnership with health professionals to bring the fun, joy and laughter that is essential to sick kids’ health and wellbeing. From one Starlight Wish granted more than 35 years ago, Starlight has created over 4 million positive Starlight Experiences for seriously ill children across Australia each year - thanks to Super Swimmers like Beth. Beth's journey as a Super Swimmer began when she was in Year 4, and she has continued to swim in support of the challenge every February since them. Across the four years she has participated, Beth has raised nearly $1,600, and swum nearly 80 km, helping more than 41 children. We are very proud to celebrate her commitment to the this worthy cause. You can find out more here.
Admin Notices
Admin Notices
Whole School
ADDRESS COLLECTION 2026
Each year the Australian Government Department of Education requires the College to provide the department with the following information about each student at the school:
names and residential addresses of the student's parent(s) and/or guardian(s)
whether the student is primary or secondary (education level)
whether the student is boarding or a day student (boarding status).
For more information on the Department of Education, Address Collection, click here.
INTERHOUSE SWIMMING CARNIVALS
We warmly invite all parents and families to come along and cheer on our students at next week’s Interhouse Swimming Carnivals! It promises to be a fantastic display of school spirit, teamwork, and determination as students compete proudly for their houses. Your encouragement from the sidelines makes a real difference and adds to the vibrant atmosphere of the day. We look forward to seeing you in your house colours (not compulsory) poolside to support and celebrate our swimmers!
NAPLAN
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a literacy and numeracy assessment that students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 sit each year. It is the only national assessment all Australian students have the opportunity to undertake. As students progress through their school years, it is important to check how well they are learning the essential skills of reading, writing and numeracy. The NAPLAN test window starts on Wednesday 11 March 2026 and finishes on Monday 23 March 2026. For more information, the Parent Information Sheet is available here.
REGISTRATIONS
A Reminder to Register Siblings for 2027, 2028 and Beyond
As we look ahead to future school years, we would like to take this opportunity to remind existing families to ensure that any siblings of current students are formally registered at Helena College.
Demand for places, particularly in Kindergarten, Year 4 and Year 6, continue to be strong. Our enrolments process for 2027 and 2028 are already well underway, and having a sibling registered early is the best way to ensure they can be considered as part of our enrolments process when places become available. While sibling status is taken into consideration, it does not replace the need for a formal registration.
If you have a younger child who may attend the College in the coming years, we encourage you to submit a registration as soon as possible. Early registration allows us to plan effectively and ensures you receive timely communication as your child’s intended entry year approaches.
To complete the registration, you will need to upload a copy of your child’s Birth Certificate as part of the online form. A registration fee of $130 applies per child; however, this fee is waived for Old Helenians. If you wish to proceed, please Register Here
If you are unsure whether a sibling has already been registered, or if you would like to discuss entry year options, please do not hesitate to contact our Enrolments Coordinator, Kate Paterson on 9298 9100 or via email at enrolments@helena.wa.edu.au. Kate is always happy to help and guide you through the process.
Thank you for your continued support and for being a valued part of our school community.
Darlington Campus
PARKING & TRAFFIC REMINDERS
We hope families have appreciated the additional parking made available on the large oval during the first two weeks of school, as part of supporting a smooth start to the year. Access to this area will now conclude, as we aim to preserve the condition of the lawn for student Physical Education lessons and use during play breaks.
The oval will be reopened for parking on selected occasions throughout the year, such as for College events including assemblies, showcases and other community gatherings.
Our College has a number of strategies and procedures in place to support both the safety of all people on campus and the efficient flow of traffic during busy drop-off and pick-up times. As a reminder, and for further details, please click here.
PARENTING INFORMATION
Helping your child adjust socially at the start of the school year
There is a great deal parents can do to help their child(ren) adjust socially at the start of the school year. Encouraging your child to be open to new friendships is one.
Please click here for some tips written by Michael Grose.
Glen Forrest Campus
SECONDARY ASSISTANCE SCHEME
We encourage all parents and caregivers of students in Years 7 - 12 to please take a moment to review their eligibility for the Department of Education Secondary Assistance Scheme (SAS). This scheme provides financial support to assist with secondary schooling costs, including contributions toward school fees and other approved expenses. If your circumstances have changed or you think you may now qualify, we strongly recommend checking the eligibility criteria and submitting an application. Accessing this support can make a meaningful difference. Please click here for further details.
Change to College Calendar in 2027
In 2025, parents and carers were asked to complete a feedback survey about their experience with the College. Results of the survey will are included in the Principal's Message in this edition of the newsletter. 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.
2026 Term Dates
Term 1: Monday 2 February to Thursday 2 April
Term 2: Monday 20 April to Friday 3 July
Term 3: Tuesday 21 July to Friday 25 September (staff return Monday 20 July)
Term 4: Monday 12 October to Thursday 10 December
2027 Term Dates
Term 1: Wednesday 27 January to Friday 9 April (staff return Friday 22 January)
Term 2: Tuesday 27 April to Friday 25 June
Term 3: Tuesday 20 July to Friday 24 September (staff return Monday 19 July)
Term 4: Monday 11 October to Thursday 9 December
Medical Update for Students
A friendly reminder to all parents and caregivers: if your child has any medical condition (such as asthma, allergies/anaphylaxis, or other ongoing health needs), please ensure the College has up-to-date medical documentation and required medication on file.
This includes providing current medical plans or letters from your child’s doctor, along with any necessary medication (for example, Ventolin, antihistamines, EpiPens, etc.). Please note that while listing a medical condition in Parent Lounge is important (see tips on how to do that here), it does not replace the need for formal documentation to be lodged with the school.
If you would like to discuss your child’s medical needs or have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to email or call the the College to discuss - we're happy to help!
Vanessa Kennedy | College Nurse
Canteen News
We are pleased to advise that the updated 2026 Darlington and Glen Forrest Campus menus are now available. Families are encouraged to review the new menus to stay informed about the range of food options on offer
An important reminder that no cash sales are available. For the Junior School, all purchases must be made through the Quickcliq online ordering. For Senior School, items can be bought over-the-counter via eftpos or Smartrider, or ordered online. For information on Quickcliq, including how to add credit to the Smartrider, please see our Canteen Services page.
Second-hand Uniform Shop
The Second-hand Uniform Shop will be open next week Tuesday (24 February) between 9 am and 9.45 am. We look forward to sharing the March opening hours once confirmed.
Thank you to the volunteers who manage the shop, and to the parents who donated good quality used items for sale. We couldn't do it without you!
Junior School | Darlington Campus
Pre-primary Journey Begins
The children have settled beautifully into their new Pre-primary environment and are growing in confidence each day. They are becoming familiar with our daily routines and expectations, moving smoothly between experiences and demonstrating an increasing understanding of how our classroom works.
It has been lovely to see friendships beginning to blossom, with the children engaging in cooperative play, sharing materials, and including one another in their games. They are learning to listen carefully during mat time, follow instructions, and take responsibility for their belongings. We are very proud of the positive start they have made and the way they are embracing their new learning environment with enthusiasm and resilience.
One Pool. Four Houses - Interhouse Swimming Carnival
Our annual Senior School Interhouse Swimming Carnival will be held on Wednesday 25 February at Bilgoman Pool.
Students will attend school as normal before travelling by bus to the venue. The first event is scheduled to begin at 9:15am, with the final event concluding at approximately 2:30pm. All students will return to school in time for normal end-of-day departure procedures.
Over the past two weeks, students have nominated the events they wish to compete in. As always, our carnival is built around the theme of participation. We strongly encourage students to get involved, challenge themselves, and most importantly, support their friends and fellow house members throughout the day. House spirit plays a huge role in making the carnival such an enjoyable and memorable event for everyone.
In addition to the main swimming program, a range of novelty events will once again be held in the diving pool, providing plenty of opportunities for students to get in the water and contribute valuable house points in a fun and inclusive environment.
This year, we are excited to officially welcome our newest house, Maali, to their very first swimming carnival. We wish them all the best as they join our proud house tradition and look forward to seeing them embrace the spirit of the day.
Acknowledgement and Thanks
A very sincere thank you to past-parent Jen Casotti for her support and contribution to making the day possible. A special thank you also goes to Guildford and Kalamunda Districts Swimming Club, who generously lent us the Dolphin timing system and will be providing invaluable assistance throughout the Carnival. Their support ensures our event runs professionally and smoothly, and we are extremely grateful for their partnership.
We look forward to a fantastic carnival filled with enthusiasm, participation and House pride.
Joe Kendall | Head of Health & Physical Education
Peer Support Program – Positive Start to Term One
Our Peer Support Program is off to a fantastic start, with students completing their first two weeks of activities. Each week, Year 6 students meet in small groups with two trained Year 10 Peer Leaders, building supportive connections and helping make the transition to secondary school smoother and more confident.
So far, sessions have focused on resilience and positive thinking. Students have explored how mindset can influence outcomes and learned practical strategies for approaching challenges, keeping situations in perspective, and separating facts from feelings when solving problems.
We are very proud of our Year 10 Peer Leaders, who have shown excellent leadership and care in guiding their groups. We also extend a sincere thank you to the leaders who volunteered their support at the recent Meet the Teacher evening, where they did a wonderful job welcoming families and helping guide parents to classrooms around the school. We look forward to seeing the program continue to grow over the coming weeks.
Daniel Hortense | Peer Support Coordinator
School Sports Update
NIAS (Northern Inner Associated Schools) Update
We are excited to share an update regarding the structure of interschool sport competitions for our students.
The Associated & Catholic Colleges (ACC) has recently undertaken a comprehensive review and restructuring of its interschool competition model. This change reflects feedback from member schools seeking a more sustainable, inclusive, and practical approach to participation - particularly one that considers school size, geographical location when organising competition.
One of the key outcomes of this review is our shift away from the traditional after-school competition format. Many schools, including ours, identified that after-school fixtures often clashed with community sport commitments, training schedules, and family responsibilities, which unfortunately limited student participation.
Beginning this year, our interschool sport program will move to a one-day carnivals format, where students will compete against schools of a more similar size rather than significantly larger colleges, during the school day. Our new sub-association will now be known as NIAS (Northern Inner Associated Schools).
Importantly, this new structure will also allow us to offer students opportunities to participate in a wider range of sports across the year, with greater flexibility in how teams and events are organised. By reducing the logistical challenges associated with weekly after-school fixtures, we can introduce more varied sporting experiences and create additional opportunities for students of different interests and ability levels to represent the College.
We are confident the NIAS model will:
Increase opportunities for student participation in more sports
Provide more balanced and engaging competition
Reduce scheduling conflicts for families
Strengthen connections with nearby schools
Maintain a strong focus on enjoyment, teamwork, and school pride
As with any new initiative, there may be minor adjustments required as the model is implemented and we appreciate the community’s understanding and support during this transition. We are excited about the opportunities this updated format will provide for our students to represent the College, build friendships, and enjoy positive sporting experiences.
We look forward to sharing more information about upcoming Interschool Carnival days soon.
Lunchtime 3x3 Basketball Competition – Week Six
Get ready for some fast-paced action on the court! Our Lunchtime 3x3 Basketball Competition is happening in Week 6, and we’re inviting students to form a team and get involved.
3x3 basketball is a quick, high-energy version of the game played on a half court with three players per team. Games are short, competitive and perfect for lunchtime sport. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy some friendly rivalry, build teamwork skills and represent your year group.
Competition divisions: - Year 7/8 Boys - Year 7/8 Girls - Year 9/10 Boys - Year 9/10 Girls
Teams must register via the Google Form link provided in student notices on MyHelena. Please ensure all team members are confirmed before submitting your entry.
Registrations close at the end of Friday, Week Three. No late entries will be accepted.
Whether they’re a seasoned player or just keen to have a go with friends, we encourage everyone to get involved. We look forward to seeing plenty of students out on the court in Week Six!
Swim Club
Swim Club has kicked off to a fantastic start this term, with a wonderful group of students diving in for some early-morning activity before school. It has been great to see so many smiling faces at the pool and such enthusiasm for building fitness, confidence and community.
Students arrive bright and early for the 7:00 am session, supporting one another through laps, drills and free swim time. Afterward, staff transport everyone back to campus where many enjoy a well-earned visit to Breakfast Club before homeroom.
We are incredibly proud of the participation, positive energy and encouragement shown by students. The commitment to getting involved and making the most of the opportunity has already made Swim Club a highlight of the term.
A reminder that our School Swim Carnival will be held in Week Four, so these sessions are a fantastic way for students to continue building their skills and confidence in the lead up to the event.
Look forward to seeing you there!
Maddison Lewis | Swim Club Coordinator
Events
Parent and Staff Sundowner
We warmly invite all new and returning parents to our Annual Parent and Staff Sundowner! This relaxed gathering is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other families across all year groups, strengthen our school community, and enjoy some friendly conversation in a welcoming atmosphere. Nibbles and refreshments will be provided, so please be sure to RSVP for catering purposes. We look forward to seeing you there and sharing this event together!
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.
