Last week, classrooms and homerooms across the College participated in the ‘Bullying No Way! National Week of Action’. Teachers and students engaged in important conversations about bullying, supported by resources from the Bullying No Way website. The central message for all students was clear: at Helena College, there are always trusted adults to talk to if you are feeling uncomfortable or treated disrespectfully.

In the Junior School, teachers guided discussions about appropriate and inappropriate behaviour, helping students understand how their actions affect others. Our Junior School psychologist, Veronica Smith, led Social and Emotional Learning sessions in each class that encouraged students to build positive relationships and explore strategies for what to do when things don’t go as hoped.

On Friday, the Student Council led a Senior School assembly with the theme Bullying No Way! During this assembly, students, teachers, Heads of Year, and College leaders delivered a shared message that there is no place for bullying at Helena College. Just as importantly, they reminded students that support is always available.

While it is a reality that no school is entirely free from bullying, it is essential to understand the national definition of bullying, developed by the federal Safe and Supportive Communities Working Group, so that we can respond to incidents appropriately:

Bullying is an ongoing and deliberate misuse of power in relationships, through repeated verbal, physical, and/or social behaviour, intended to cause harm. It can occur in person or online, be obvious (overt) or hidden (covert), and may involve individuals or groups misusing power over others who feel unable to stop it. Bullying behaviour is repeated - or has the potential to be repeated - over time. Importantly, single incidents or conflicts between equals, whether in person or online, are not considered bullying.

The definition highlights three key aspects:

1. Misuse of power – an imbalance in the relationship.
2. Repeated actions – occurring over time.
3. Intent to cause harm – whether physical, social, or psychological.

A fourth important clarification is that a single disagreement or conflict between equals is not bullying.

Understanding these distinctions helps students, parents, and teachers work together to ensure that the College responds in the most appropriate way, guided by our student care and management policies. Most importantly, we can only take action when we know something is happening.

Regardless of whether a situation meets the definition of bullying or is simply a conflict between peers, our message remains the same: no student should ever feel unsafe at Helena College, and there is always someone to turn to for help and support.

Peter Coombs

Principal

Our Junior School journey can be easily described as a joyful and memorable adventure, designed to spark young minds with the excitement of learning and to nurture a lifelong love of discovery. For our students, these years are a time of exploration as they engage across a wide range of subjects and Electives. Through skill-based and inquiry-based learning, they enjoy a diverse and enriching early education - all within the stunning natural bushland setting of our Darlington Campus.

At the heart of our community are the collaborative relationships between staff, students and parents. Together, we live out our school motto, ‘Bringing out the best together’, working in partnership to create the very best educational experience for each child - and his shared spirit has been on full display in recent school events.

Children, and indeed people of all ages, thrive in environments where they feel nurtured, valued and loved. They learn about the world around them when those closest to them take part in their play, share their interests, join in their exploration, and genuinely listen to their stories.

Grandparents and special friends often have the gift of enjoying this time in a more relaxed and unhurried way - cherishing children for who they are in the moment.

It is with great delight, therefore, that we once again invite all grandparents and special friends to join us at the Darlington Campus in Week Nine. Our students are excited to welcome you into their classrooms, share their learning experiences, and guide you through some of their favourite spaces around the school.

For those able to attend, please see the dates and times listed below.

As a reminder, parking on our campus is very restrictive at the best of times. To try and assist in relation to this matter, the occasion is held over three mornings.

In addition to the onsite bays, undercover area and large oval (access via Gate 4), visitors are encouraged to explore off campus parking options remembering to adhere to local shire parking regulations and / or consider alternative travel arrangements. Guests are asked to not park on footpaths or along the perimeter of the campus. Visitors are also kindly asked to ensure they are off campus prior to 10.30am (with students exiting their classrooms at this time for morning tea / recess).

Lastly, what a joy it was to see our students bring so many favourite book characters to life at the Book Week parade - such a vibrant celebration of stories and imagination!

Best wishes for the remaining half of Term Three.

Greg Miller | Head of Junior School, Kindergarten to Year 5

Student Drivers and Parking

As growing numbers of our Year 11s gain their Driver’s Licences, it is worth noting that, owing to the restricted number of parking bays, our policy at the College is that only Year 12 students may park their vehicle on the College grounds and only in the calendar year that they graduate. 

We must give priority to our 2025 Leavers up until the end of their WACE exams to avoid them missing out on a car bay on their exam day and consequently running late or missing the start of their exam.

If circumstances dictate that this arrangement cannot be complied with, please contact the Director of Upper School directly.

Parents should also note that the Year 12 carpark is for Year 12 students only. After-school pick-up is via the pick-up lane parallel to Bilgoman Road.

Uniform Reminder

Even though the weather remains changeable this term, where a cool morning can become a warm and sunny afternoon, we still expect students to meet the high standard of dress as an outward statement of the College’s identity and belonging to the community.

Students are reminded that no undergarments should be visible under the uniform, e.g., no round-neck t-shirts under open-collar shirts, no long-sleeve undershirts visible below our short-sleeve shirt/blouse.  A short-sleeve thermal v-neck, t-shirt or tank top would be ideal for staying warm and complying with our Uniform Policy.

The Sports Tracksuit top is not part of the formal uniform and cannot be worn as a substitute for the College jumper or soft-shell jacket.

Elevate Education Visit our Year 12s

Our Year 12 students participated in their final Elevate Education seminar on Tuesday, 26 August. The session, titled “Finishing Line”, equipped our 12s with some wellbeing strategies and well-tested tips for finishing the school year strongly.

93% of our Year 12s said they would recommend this program to other students, and believe this program was time well spent (despite it running at Lunchtime).

There is time and ample marks still in play for all Year 12 students to improve their end-of-year results and, by extension, their competitiveness for places in the workforce at TAFE or university in 2026.

A reminder that Year 12 students can unlock study techniques developed by Elevate Education at https://austudent.elevateeducation.com password: rondo

Year 12 Graduation Information - Save the Date

The 2025 Year 12 Graduation ceremony will be at the Glen Forrest Campus Gymnasium on Friday, 24 October 2025. Graduation is the formal conclusion to the Year 12 students' years at Helena College. It is an evening for the Year 12 students, their families, and teachers to celebrate our students’ academic, cultural, leadership, and effort achievements.

We look forward to a wonderful evening and to celebrating with our 2025 Leavers and their families.

Year 12 Email Addresses

Year 12s are encouraged to set up a new email address before the Helena address is turned off following the last ATAR exam in November. It is also wise to choose a professional address. This will help students represent themselves at their best when dealing with potential employers.

Transferring login details from third-party providers, such as Spotify, Google, SCSA, and TISC, can take time. Year 12s are encouraged to start this process early to avoid being locked out down the track.

End of Year 10 Celebration Day

Save the date: Friday, 5 December 2025.

This date marks the last day of Year 10 for 2025 and will incorporate some House-based challenges at school, morning tea, bus transfers to and from Barrack Street Jetty, a 3-hour River Cruise and lunch.

Watch this space for the theme of the day and ticket details.

Traineeship or Apprenticeship

These tips for getting a traineeship or apprenticeship are gold.

These tips are from Rob Palmer, Careers Advisor at South Metro TAFE:

Step 1: While on your work placement/experience this term, demonstrate what a great employee you are. If you are not heading off to work placement/experience, look for opportunities to volunteer. You can get insurance cover from Volunteering WA, but the range of volunteering work is limited.

Step 2: Get information from a Jobs and Skills Centre, Midland TAFE: A Block, Corner Lloyd Street and Eddie Barron Drive, Midland, on subsidies and workforce planning support that EMPLOYERS can get.

Step 3: Tell the potential employer about the subsidies and ask if they will take you on.

Step 4: If they don't take you on, ask if they know anyone who can take you on.

Parents’ Guide to University Study

Our Parents' Guide to University Study assists parents to understand some of the mysteries of higher education. This guide can assist parents with information including how to choose a course, how to get into university, how their child will be supported, how to apply and where they will study their course.

The new guide also discusses how to have a great university experience, and highlights ECU’s commitment to ensuring every student has the best possible experience when they study with us.

To download the Parents’ Guide, click HERE.

Year 12 Semester Two Exam Timetable

The Year 12 Semester Two Exam Timetable is now available for download via the my.helena Year 12 Communications - Parents and Students Page. There are also some hard copies in the Front Office.

Please read the EXAM INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS on the second page before your first exam. This is essential information to ensure the smooth running of the exam period and to prevent breaches of examination rules.

While Year 12 students are NOT required to be at school unless they have an exam, the second page also outlines how Private Study will run for those on campus when they don't have an exam.

Casual Dress Day | R U OK? Day | Thursday 11 September

Thursday, 11 October, will be our last Casual Dress Day for 2025. We will be supporting the charity R U OK? Day. Normal Casual Dress Day Guidelines apply on the day.

R U OK? Day is supported nationwide and is a good reminder to ask “Are you OK?” if someone in your world is struggling with life’s ups and downs.

The theme for R U OK? Day 2025 is: “Ask R U OK? Any day”.

Ag College Open Days

The Western Australian College of Agriculture offers a great alternative for young people in Years 10 - 12. Studies lead to employment or further study at TAFE or university.

There are five residential campuses located near Cunderdin, Denmark, Harvey, Morawa and Narrogin. Each campus is located on a commercial-sized farm, and they all have residential facilities.

• 5 September  | Cunderdin Ag College
• 6 September | Denmark Ag College
• 12 September  | Narrogin Ag College

4 September 2026 TAFE Applications Open

TAFE Applications for 2026 open on Thursday, 4 September. To find more information, click above image or click HERE.

University News

27 September UWA Day of Percussion

Led by some of Australia’s finest percussionists, including UWA Chair of Percussion Paul Tanner, the UWA Day of Percussion is jam-packed with masterclasses, workshops, and performances for percussionists of all ages and skill levels.

There will be three streams on the day. If you are unsure which level is best for you, please contact UWA.

Senior: Percussionists studying for their ATAR exams, or high school students who feel comfortable learning new concepts.

Intermediate: High school students who have been learning for 2 years or more

Junior: Students learning for less than 2 years, including primary school students.

Find details and register HERE.

31 August Closing Date Veterinary Science Murdoch

The integrated Bachelor of Science / Doctor of Veterinary Medicine course prepares students for a career as a veterinarian.

Eligibility for the award of Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Biology) is achieved after the first six semesters of the course. It is a prerequisite for entry into the final two years of study, which lead to the award of the internationally recognised, Master’s-level degree of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM).

All domestic students (school leavers and tertiary pathways) must apply through TISC.

For more information, click HERE.

1 September TISC Early Offers

The first round of Year 12 Early Offers will be released on Monday, 1 September 2025.

There will be three or four further rounds of Early Offers – confirmed dates will be available shortly on the TISC website. Most early offers will be conditional, so students should carefully read their offer letter to understand what is required.

September UCAT Results Delivered to Universities

Students applying for medicine courses will have taken the University Clinical Aptitude Tests in July and August. The results of those tests will be delivered to universities in early September.

2 September. ECU. Computing and Security Showcase Evening

ECU’s Computing and Security programs include a broad choice of major subjects and cover dynamic areas such as computer science, cyber security, information technology, counter terrorism, security, intelligence, and software engineering.

6.00 pm – 7.30 pm, Joondalup Campus. For more information and to register, click HERE.

2 September. Murdoch University. Health and Education Open Night

Discover Murdoch University's wide range of Health and Education courses!

Join Murdoch’s Future Students Team to see how a degree from Murdoch University can prepare you for a career within the health industries or teaching the next generation of thinkers. Learn how you can use your passion for sport, rehabilitation, language, science, leadership, and compassion to improve the lives of others.

5.30 pm. South Street Campus, Boola Katitjin Building. For More information and to register, click HERE.

3 September. Murdoch University. STEM Open Night

Explore Murdoch University's wide range of STEM, Environmental and Life Science courses!

Join Murdoch’s Future Students Team for a night of innovation, as they explore how a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics degree from Murdoch University equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to solve complex problems, think critically, and adapt to new technologies.

5.30 pm. South Street Campus, Boola Katitjin Building. For More information and to register, click HERE.

4 September. Murdoch University. Westpac Technologists Scholarship applications open.

Westpac Young Technologists Scholarships are designed for high school graduates who are passionate about technology and eager to explore its potential for good.

Receive up to $20,000 in fully flexible funding for your undergraduate studies to put toward your course, degree materials or living expenses. This funding comprises of $15,000 awarded directly to scholars over three years, plus an additional $5,000 to cover the cost of attending our Disruptive Leaders Program.

For more information, click HERE.

25 September. Scholarship Online Information Session 2.00 pm – 3.00 pm

Register for the information session by following this link.

4 September. Murdoch University. Business, Law, HaSS and Creative Media Open Night

Immerse yourself in Murdoch University’s Business, Law and Criminology, Humanities, Arts and Social Science Courses!

Join Murdoch’s Future Students Team to see how a degree from Murdoch University could inspire you to use the power of analysis, communication, creativity, and storytelling to challenge the way we think about, look at and understand the world.

5.30 pm. South Street Campus, Boola Katitjin Building. For More information and to register, click HERE.

4 September. Curtin Undergraduate Course Expo

This is your chance to find out what life at Curtin is really like. Curtin’s Student Engagement Team are ready to answer all your questions about courses, pathways, scholarships, and campus life.

This event is your opportunity to:

• Discover your course options.
• Get personalised admissions and application advice.
• Attend faculty info sessions.
• Learn about the different pathways to university.
• Get help with your portfolio application.

3.30 pm – 7.00 pm Curtin University, TL Robertson Library (Level 7). For more information and to register, click HERE.

5 September. ECU. Nursing and Midwifery Showcase Evening

Explore ECU’s state-of-the-art facilities, learn about their courses and the excellent support services you can expect as a student. You can speak with their Future Student Engagements Team about admission pathways, how to apply, fees and scholarships, and flexible study options, such as online or part-time. For more information and to register, click HERE.

5 September. ECU. Year 11 and 12 Engineering Showcase

Tour ECU’s state-of-the-art engineering facilities and hear from current students and alumni. Plus, you’ll have the chance to engage with their academic staff.

For more information and to register, click HERE.

9 September. ECU. Teacher Education Information Evening

Are you considering a career in Teacher Education? If so, ECU’s information evening is perfect for you! Their Information Session will cover course details, admission pathways, application processes, fees, scholarships, and flexible study options, including online or part-time learning.

For more information and to register, click HERE.

9 September. UWA. Open Night: STEM

If you’re a current Year 11 or Year 12 student interested in Engineering, Computer and Data Science, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Agriculture, Geology, or anything else related to STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), this event is designed with you and your future in mind.

6.30 pm - 8.30 pm. For more information and to register, click HERE.

10 September. ECU. Business and Law Information Evening

If you aspire to a career in business or see yourself as a lawyer, this event is a great place to start. As well as highlighting some of ECU’s popular courses and career opportunities, their Student Engagement Team will introduce you to where you’ll be studying – ECU’s incredible new city campus.

For more information and to register, click HERE.

11 September. UWA. Open Night: Medicine and Dentistry

Step into the clinical world of Medicine and Dentistry. You'll hear from UWA’s highly regarded academics and current students as they provide insights into both fields and what makes studying these programs unique at UWA. You'll also have the chance to ask their specialist admissions team any questions about securing a place in our highly competitive programs.

You will also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities and tours of the state-of-the-art medical and dental school facilities at the UWA Health Campus.

For more information and to register, click HERE.

16 September. ECU. Bachelor of Arts Information Session

If you are curious about society, people, cultures and ideas, but haven't yet decided on a career direction, this highly flexible degree is a great place to start, opening your eyes to possible future directions.

For more information and to register, click HERE.

16 September. UWA. Open Night: Law and Criminology

If you’re a current Year 11 or Year 12 student interested in Law & Criminology, this event is designed with you and your future in mind. On the night, you’ll be able to connect with academics and students, and explore the opportunities available to you when studying at UWA.

To find out more information and to register, click HERE.

17 September. UWA. Open Night: Business and Commerce

If you’re a current Year 11 or Year 12 student interested in Accounting and Finance, Economics, Management and Organisations, Marketing, or anything else related to Business and Commerce, this event is designed with you and your future in mind.

On the night, you’ll be able to connect with academics and students, and explore the hands-on-learning opportunities available to you when studying at UWA.

To find out more information and to register, click HERE.

17 September. ECU. Medical and Health Sciences Showcase Evening

Join ECU for this interactive event that will showcase courses offered in their major disciplines of Allied Health, Medical and Exercise Science and Public Health and Occupational Safety & Health.

For more information and to register, click HERE.

20 September UWA Music Auditions for 2026

Auditions: Saturday 20 September & Monday 1 December 2025.

UWA’s flexible, innovative course structure gives music students the opportunity to tailor their study pathway and achieve their unique goals, guided by some of Australia’s leading musicians and artists! Whether your passion is Performance or Composition/Songwriting, Classical, Contemporary, Music Theatre or Electronic Music, UWA has a tradition of supporting outstanding artists to succeed.

For more information or to apply for an audition, click HERE.

24 September. ECU. Social Change Leadership Information Session

Want to make a meaningful difference, driving positive social change in communities? If you're passionate about social justice and want to become a leader in an organisation who shares.

For more information and to register, click HERE.

Years 9 and 10 | 30 September and 1 October. A Day in the Life of a Murdoch University Student

Do you want to experience a day in the life of a Murdoch University student?

If you are currently in Year 9 or 10, A Day in the Life of a Murdoch University Student is the perfect opportunity for you to explore your interests and where these might lead you. You will create a customised university timetable based on subjects of interest, speak with current Murdoch University students about their study journey and be inspired by our academics.

You can go on either day. To find out more information and to register, click HERE.

Years 10 – 12 | 8 and 9 October. Curtin University. Business Innovation Bootcamp 

Register Now. School Holiday Program

Curtin is hosting its two-day Business Innovation Bootcamp for students in Years 10-12 who are interested in entrepreneurship, planning for their start-up, already running their own business or anywhere in between.

Day one explores the fundamental entrepreneurial skillset, from idea generation to business planning and market research. Day two introduces advanced concepts and gives students practical experience in developing and showcasing their own idea or prototype.

Tickets are $20 and include the full program, workshop resources, and morning tea and lunch on both days.

To find information and to register, click HERE.

Darlington Campus Library - Lunchtime Opening Hours for Students

Thursday and Friday

12.50pm-1.10pm

Books can be dangerous. The best ones should be labelled ‘Warning, this could change your life ~ Helen Exley

School Times

As a reminder, Junior School staff are rostered on duty from 8.20am (8.30am for Kindergarten and Pre-primary) and there is no rostered supervision after 3.20pm.

Parents are asked to ensure that their child(ren) do not arrive at school well before 8.20am, or remain at school after 3.20pm - unless they are participating in a Helena College activity.

Darlington Campus students arriving before 8.20am will be asked to remain in the library until classrooms open, and those not collected by 3.20pm, will be accompanied to Administration.

Parents / carers are most welcome to wait with their children prior to the morning classroom opening times. Upon entering the campus, students are to proceed straight to their relevant classroom.

Please note that due to matters surrounding duty of care, playground equipment is only to be used during recess and lunch breaks. Recess is from 10.30am-10.50am and lunch from 12.30pm-1.10pm.

The above mentioned details form part of, and are designed for, the safety of our students - and we thank you for your support.

Assemblies, Events and Showcase Performances
Assemblies, events and showcase performances provide a wonderful opportunity for parents to observe their child in a different context, being able to perform in front of the school and parents. The assembly items and opportunities such as these are delightful moments and ones that should be enjoyed, remembered and cherished.

Parents are most welcome to take pictures and / or record these times to capture these treasured occasions. Please remember, assembly photographs and/or recordings are not to be uploaded to public forums (such as YouTube, Facebook and Instagram) - as the footage will more than likely contain students other than your own child.

We thoroughly enjoy visitors attending our celebrations and greatly appreciate your support on this matter.

Our Pre-primary students had an exciting adventure this week on our excursion to the Perth Zoo. The children were full of excitement as we set out for a day of discovery and learning.

We began our journey exploring the Reptile Enclosure, where we saw snakes, lizards up close. The children were fascinated by how reptiles move and the unique ways they survive in their habitats.

Next, we visited some of our very own Australian animals. The children enjoyed spotting kangaroos and koalas, animals they have been learning about in class. We then made our way to the impressive Elephants and lively Gibbons, who entertained us with their swinging and calls. The children were amazed to see such strong and playful animals. Our adventure continued through the African Savannah, where we came across lions, zebras, and giraffes—animals that sparked lots of curiosity and wonder.

A highlight of the day was our Educational Experience at the Zoo. The children learned about the Six Noongar Seasons and how they shape the lives of animals and people in Western Australia. We explored how five Australian animals adapt and change with the seasons:

This session helped the children see the strong connection between animals, the environment, and Aboriginal culture.

It was a wonderful day filled with learning, exploration, and fun. The children returned with big smiles, new knowledge, and plenty of stories to share about their Zoo adventure.

Kellie Sorensen | Preprimary Teacher

Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA) Speakers Challenge

Once again Helena College was proud to have two talented speakers enter in the IPSHA Speaker’s Challenge,  hosted by Wesley College.

Emelia J and Grace C, Year 3 students, worked hard at school, and at home to showcase their natural public speaking skills and shine. They pitted their impressive public speaking skills against other contestants to persuade and entertain the audience, and adjudicators to nominate their speech and be in contention for a medal.

Helena College would like to congratulate Emelia and Grace on their success. Both girls demonstrated a ‘Growth Mindset’ to overcome challenges along the way to present powerful speeches that they can be so proud of.

We celebrate with Emelia and Grace’s wonderful accomplishment, and in thanking their teacher Mr Barclay, and parents who encouraged and mentored them.

April Ledger | Head of Learning Support

Each year across Australia, schools and libraries join together to celebrate books, Australian children’s authors, and illustrators during Book Week. We had a fantastic ‘Book an Adventure’ Book Week Parade at the Darlington Campus and were visited by a variety of amazing characters from a range of children’s books. We would like to thank the students, parents, grandparents, carers, and family and friends for the time and effort that went into all the wonderful costumes on display. We really appreciate your support. We would also like to thank our staff for their contributions (and costumes) and the Year 5 Library Ministers, Elly and Emer and their friends who helped out with ‘crowd control’, music and speeches.

In the Library, we celebrated Book Week with nominated book readings, some roll a dice create your own monster and finish this cartoon activities. We had a naughty (and very bitey) crocodile visit our library and a very chill (and adorably cute) snake.

We still have the micro-photography ‘What is this?’ combined Science and Book Week display outside the library… answers will be revealed soon.

Emma Debnam | Teacher Librarian

Book Week 2025 was an amazing event at Helena College Senior Campus this year. What could top a week of fantastic, engaging activities? Our annual Write a Book in a Day competition, of course!

The competition, all in aid of the Kids’ Cancer Project, sees teams of students from all around the country write a whole novel in a maximum of 12 hours.

On Friday of Week 5, Helena College fielded a record 10 teams from Years 6-10, each producing their own children’s book. Every book was written, illustrated, and edited by the students, complying with a number of competition parameters, including five random words. This forced students to work together, think laterally, manage their time, and use their imaginations.

Some titles included The Radioactive Rat, The Talking Hat Guides the Way, Submergence, and That’s Rubbish!

Each book is a wonderful testament to our students’ capabilities and skills, and the high standards they set for themselves and each other. Books will be displayed in the Library in the coming weeks for everyone to enjoy.

Helena College Junior School will also partake later in the term with a Year 5 team.

We wish all students all the best in the judging, which will begin in Term 4. It really was a fantastic day!

Sara Settelmaier and Kristina Ussi | English Teachers

Get ready to shine at the upcoming Middle School Social with an exciting Glow in the Dark theme!  It’s going to be a night full of fun, music, and glowing surprises. All the details, including permissions and ticket purchases will be sent to parents via email to action in the Parent Lounge.

CHILDREN’S BOOK WEEK® 2025 | Book an Adventure

The senior campus celebrated book week in style last week with a range a competitions and activities to inspire the reader within! From Homeroom quizzes to masked reader, guess the number of pages to book bingo, there were lots of activities to keep everyone busy throughout the week. Congratulations to the lucky winners of the various competitions. Now we wait with great excitement to find out the theme for 2026!

As always, keep reading!

Rebecca Murray | Teacher Librarian

STUDY SKILLS HANDBOOK |  Handling Digital Overload

How to Stay Focused in a World Full of Distractions

Screens are everywhere—smartphones, laptops, tablets—and while they’re essential for learning, they can easily become a source of distraction. Between endless notifications, social media feeds, and gaming apps, it’s easy to lose focus and waste hours. Managing digital overload is key to staying productive and maintaining balance. Here’s how you can regain control of your screen time and use technology as a tool for success.

1. Set Digital Boundaries

To stay focused, establish clear boundaries for when and how you use your devices. For example:

• Turn Off Notifications: Silence alerts during study time to avoid interruptions.
• Create a Study-Only Space: Designate certain areas, like your desk, as screen-free zones for non-study activities.
• Set Screen Time Limits: Many smartphones have features that let you track and limit time spent on specific apps.
• Tip: Use apps like Focus Keeper or Forest, which gamify productivity by encouraging you to stay off your phone.

2. Schedule Regular Screen Breaks

Staring at screens for long periods isn’t just distracting - it’s also tiring for your eyes and mind. Breaks help you refresh and refocus. A great method is the 20-20-20 rule:

• Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• In addition, try incorporating non-screen activities into your routine. Read a physical book, go for a walk, or practice a hobby to give your brain a break from digital input.
• Tip: Use break time to stretch, hydrate, or grab a healthy snack—these habits boost both focus and well-being.

3. Use Technology to Your Advantage

While screens can be distracting, they’re also powerful tools when used wisely. Leverage apps and digital tools that help you stay organized and productive:

• Google Keep or Notion: For organising tasks and notes.
• Quizlet: For studying with digital flashcards.
• StayFocusd or Freedom: To block distracting websites during study sessions.
• Tip: When using your laptop, keep only one tab open at a time to maintain focus. Avoid the temptation of multi-tasking with multiple tabs.

4. Unplug Before Bedtime

Excessive screen time, especially at night, can interfere with your sleep cycle. The blue light emitted by devices reduces melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. To combat this:

• Turn Off Devices an Hour Before Bed: Swap screens for relaxing activities like reading or journaling.
• Use Night Mode: If you must use a device, enable night mode to reduce blue light exposure.
• Tip: Create a bedtime ritual that signals your body it’s time to wind down, such as a short meditation or light stretching.

5. Balance Is Key

Digital devices are an essential part of life, but they shouldn’t dominate your time or attention. By setting boundaries, taking regular breaks, and using technology intentionally, you can stay focused and productive while maintaining balance. Remember, you control your screens—they don’t control you. Start making these changes today, and enjoy the benefits of a healthier relationship with technology.

You can learn more at www.studyskillshandbook.com.au by logging in with the details below and working through some of the units.

Username:
forhelenaonly

Password: 71results

On Friday, 15th August, our school came alive with energy, spirit, and friendly competition as we held our annual Inter-House Athletics Carnival. The day was an incredible success, with students from all year groups giving their very best in both track and field events. Participation levels were outstanding, and it was inspiring to see so many students striving for personal bests while also contributing valuable points to their house.

At the conclusion of a full day of competition, it was Waughul House who claimed overall victory, finishing with an impressive 2853 points. They were followed by Kiara House in second place on 2651 points, while Cardan House finished strongly in third place with 2556 points. Congratulations to all three houses for their fantastic efforts, and particularly to Waughul for taking out the shield in 2025.

A highlight of the carnival was the presentation of the Individual Champions and Runners-Up, recognising students who excelled across multiple events and demonstrated not only skill, but also determination and consistency.

INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS AND RUNNERS UP

Friendly Reminder from Enrolments

Are your circumstances changing in 2026?

If your child(ren) will not be returning to Helena College next year, please let us know by the end of Term Three, this helps us manage our enrolments and ensures that we can offer spots to families on our waitlist, as some year levels are currently at capacity. A friendly reminder that a term's notice is required to avoid being charged a term's fees in lieu of notice as per our enrolment policy.

Simply send your withdrawal notification in writing to our Enrolments Coordinator at enrolments@helena.wa.edu.au.

If you ave any questions or need more information, please feel free to reach out to our Enrolments Coordinator at 9298 9100 or enrolments@helena.wa.edu.au. We're here to help!

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.

FREE TACKERS SAILING EXPERIENCE

Free Tackers Sailing Experience is an opportunity for kids aged from 7 to 12 years old to have a go at sailing a Tackers boat in the safe, protected waters of Hillarys Boat Harbour (near the foot bridge).

Qualified instructors and assistants will be in the water with the sailors, guiding and helping them to have a fun-filled exciting experience on the water.

No previous sailing experience is required, and they don't need to be a member of a sailing or yacht club to participate, to have a go. It's FUN! It's FREE!

Raising Healthy Minds

The Raising Healthy Minds app is a free, personalised, pocket resource to help parents and carers raise confident, resilient children. Co-designed with parents and experts and funded by the Australian Government, Raising Healthy Minds aims to support children’s social and emotional wellbeing with evidence-based information. 

You’ll find information on topics like dealing with worries and making friends, as well as ideas for day-to-day life, like creating family routines, looking after yourself as a parent, and building strong relationships. 

The app offers a mix of quick-read articles, videos and animations aimed at parents and carers of children aged 0-12 years. You can tailor information to the age of your child and opt-in to receive helpful tips. 

Raising Healthy Minds provides simple-to-use information at your fingertips with clear actions you can start today. 

Download from Google Play or the App Store or go to raisingchildren.net.au/rhm to learn more and raise a healthy mind

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