Each year, our senior class graduates from Helena College and begin their life beyond secondary schooling. Considering what that future might look like can feel both exciting and, at times, a little daunting for students and parents alike. With this in mind, the College offers a range of programs and opportunities designed to support students as they explore and plan their post-school pathways.

Career education begins well before the senior years. This week, Year 9 students will participate in career taster sessions where they will explore how their skills, strengths and values align with potential careers. A highlight of this program is the immersive virtual reality experience provided by Mindflight, which allows students to explore a variety of occupations in an engaging and interactive way. These sessions are repeated later in the year for those students out on an Outdoor Education trip this week.

In Year 10, all students undertake the year-long Future Pathways course as they begin to consider subject selections for Years 11 and 12. As part of this course, students develop a personal profile, incorporating aptitude testing to help identify their strengths and potential career pathways. They explore a range of post-school options, including university, TAFE and apprenticeships, while also building practical skills such as resume writing and interview techniques. In addition, students develop their financial literacy, gaining an understanding of budgeting, credit, and managing personal finances.

A key component of the Year 10 program is the one-week Work Experience placement, where students gain valuable, real-world insight into areas of interest.

Later in the year, our Director of Upper School, Mr Craig Hillman, will host an information evening for Year 10 students and their families. This session outlines the subject selection process for Years 11 and 12 and provides an overview of post-school options. Families are then invited to meet individually with Mr Hillman to discuss course selections and future goals. The College continues to offer a broad and diverse range of over 30 ATAR and General courses, ensuring students have meaningful choices aligned with their interests and aspirations.

In addition to WACE courses, students may choose to participate in the Vocational Education and Training Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS) program through TAFE. This allows students in Years 11 and 12 to complete certificate qualifications while still at school, typically attending a TAFE campus one day per week.

As students progress through Years 11 and 12, they are supported by a comprehensive range of experiences designed to inform their post-secondary decisions. These include university visits, presentations at the College from Perth universities, and detailed guidance from the Tertiary Institutions Service Centre (TISC) on the university application process. Students also have the opportunity to attend the Skills West Careers Expo, connect with industry representatives, and explore apprenticeship and vocational pathways.

For students following a General pathway, opportunities such as Workplace Learning and the Careers and Enterprise course provide valuable practical experience and further preparation for life beyond school.

Together, these programs ensure that our students are well-informed, confident, and prepared as they take their next steps after graduation.

If you have any questions about pathways for Years 11 and 12, including career options and post-school planning, please feel free to contact Mr Craig Hillman at chillman@helena.wa.edu.au.

Peter Coombs | Principal K-12

We have commenced Term Two with great enthusiasm, and I look forward to celebrating the progress and achievements of our students in the weeks ahead.

Whole School Assembly | ANZAC Day

On Thursday 23 April, staff and students from Years 1-12 gathered as one school community at our Glen Forrest Campus for a thoughtful ANZAC Day assembly. ANZAC Day is one of Australia’s most significant national occasions of remembrance, marking the anniversary of the first major military action involving Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.

On this important day, Australians reflect on the many meanings of war and honour those who have served, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts involving Australia to the present day.

A sincere thank you to all who contributed to the preparation and presentation of this assembly, particularly Mrs Alysha Emanuele and our Junior School choir, who performed beautifully!

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Keeping families informed about each child’s learning and development is a vital part of the educational experience.

The parent-teacher conferences held at the end of Week 1 were highly successful, providing valuable opportunities for open and meaningful dialogue focused on each child’s academic and social growth. Thank you to all families who were able to attend and engage in these important conversations.

While Term One focused on establishing routines and classroom expectations, Term Two offers many opportunities for continued growth, deeper learning and shared success.

Aussies of the Month | May 2026

Providing students with opportunities to take on roles and responsibilities is an important aspect of their development. We are pleased to continue the Aussie of the Month (AOTM) program for students in Years 3 and 4.

The AOTM program recognises personal effort, achievement, and contributions to both the school and wider community. It also reflects key Australian values such as fairness, generosity of spirit, community involvement and environmental care.

Each month, one student from Year 3 and two students from Year 4 are recognised. These students receive a certificate and badge to wear with pride throughout the month.

Congratulations go to Sonny (Year 3) and Lincoln (Year 4) - our Aussies of the Month for May 2026.

Mothers' Day

Sunday 10 May marks the special occasion of Mothers' Day. The citizens of tomorrow are shaped within the homes of today, and the influence of a caring parent or guardian is profound. Mothers and parent figures leave lasting impressions through their words, actions, and everyday gestures of love and support.

I hope that on Mothers' Day, all mothers and parent figures in our community feel the appreciation and love their children hold for them. Thank you for all that you do - you bring warmth, comfort, and care to our community each and every day.

Help Keep Flu at Bay

As we know, individual actions contribute to the wellbeing of the wider community. Vaccination remains the safest and most effective way to reduce the risk of contracting the flu and passing it on to others.

Walk Safely to School Day

Next week (Friday 15 May), families are encouraged to participate in Walk Safely to School Day - a national initiative promoting road safety, health, public transport use and environmental awareness.

For those able to take part, this may involve parking a short distance from school and walking the remainder, or joining the group meeting at Darlington Oval. Participants are invited to stop by Administration to receive a ‘Walk Safely to School Day’ sticker. Please refer to previous school communications for further details.

my.helena Reminder

At the Junior School, my.helena is designed primarily for parent use. We encourage families to log in regularly to stay informed about notices, upcoming events, and important dates. Notifications can also be enabled to receive timely updates when new information is posted.

While significant communications will continue to be sent via email and may also appear on my.helena, there will be occasions when my.helena is the primary platform. Regular engagement with the platform is therefore highly beneficial.

Kind regards

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

Student Drivers

Year 12 Students may drive to school as a matter of privilege, not of right. Students must register their vehicles by completing a Student Vehicle Permission Form (available in the Administration Office and my.helena via Year 12 Communications - Parents and Students) to be registered to park. If passengers are to be in the vehicle, their names must also appear on the form, along with that parent's 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 Permission Form.

Please note that only Year 12 Students may park on campus and only in the Year 12 Carpark area between the College Oval and Bilgoman Road. Our current Year 11s will soon be Probationary Drivers. Unfortunately, there is no parking available on the campus for Year 11 student drivers.

We also remind parents and guardians not to use the Year 12 carpark for pick-up.

Uniform. Winter is Coming

Please remember that the College Sports Tracksuit Top is not part of the College Uniform. It is part of the Sports Uniform and can be worn during Physical Education classes and Inter-school sporting events. With the days getting colder and wetter, it is a timely reminder to get a College Jumper or a Soft-Shell Winter Jacket to prepare for the colder months ahead.  View the GFC Uniform Guide

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.

Live Parent Webinar: How You Can Help Your Child Prepare for Exams

Elevate Education will be hosting a free webinar for our parents on exam preparation on Wednesday, 20 May.

Elevate works with our students, delivering high-impact workshops on study skills, motivation, wellbeing, and exam preparation. By tuning into their webinar series, you’ll learn how you can help support your child at home by reinforcing the skills they’re learning at school.

Sign up for the session below to learn how you can help your child get ready for their assessments and walk into the exam hall feeling confident and prepared.

Live Parent Webinar: How You Can Help Your Child Prepare for Exams

Wednesday, 20 May, 4.30 pm - 5.30 pm (AWST)

Click here to register for free.

Here’s what Elevate will be covering on the night:

• Prioritise your child’s high-impact work to maximise marks.
• Improve your child’s time management to avoid last-minute preparation.
• Help your child study effectively using past papers.

Events

Casual Dress Day on Thursday, 21 May | In support of the Leukaemia Foundation

On Thursday, 21 May, we will have our next Casual Dress Day at the GFC. Funds raised through gold coin donations made to wear Casual Dress will go to support the Leukaemia Foundation. This Australian-wide charity helps bring life-saving support and care for Australians facing blood cancer.

Casual Dress Day guidelines will appear in the my.helena News Feed ahead of the day.

Senior Ball:  Thursday, 2 July

As you all know, our Year 12 Ball Committee has been working very hard and is finalising decisions on a DJ, food options, the evening's theme, and decorations. The ticket prices will include a mocktail on arrival, a three-course meal, free-flowing soft drinks throughout the night, a DJ, a professional photographer, table decorations, and a photo booth.

Just a reminder that Year 12 students are required to stay at school on the day of the Ball, Thursday, 2 July, 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 that students can focus on their study program. There is no school for Year 12 students on Friday, 3 July.

Regarding pre- and post-school parties, please remember that there are specific laws on consuming alcohol and underage drinking and on providing alcohol to underage drinkers. Please take heed of these laws and remember that the school does not sanction any pre- or post-ball parties.

If anyone arrives at the Ball under the influence of any illegal substances or attempts to consume them at the Ball, they will be IMMEDIATELY sent home in a taxi, at their expense. This is a serious issue for the school in our duty of care, so please, parents and students, be responsible.

We are all looking forward to a wonderful evening and the social event of the year for our Year 12 students.

Upcoming Year 10 Family Information Evening - Subject Selections (Year 11 2027)

Save the date: Tuesday, 21 July 2026

Current Year 10 students will soon make choices related to their 2027 Year 11 courses.

Year 10 students and their parents/guardians are strongly encouraged to attend this presentation. Information on the subject selection process and its implications for Years 11 and 12, as well as post-school pathways, will be shared during the evening.

The evening will be in the PAC on Tuesday, 21 July, from 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm. Please bring your Year 10 child with you.

For further information, please contact Craig Hillman, Director of Upper School.

Years 11 and 12 Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences

Save the date: Monday, 3 August.

We will hold our second Year 11/12 Parent-Student-Teacher Conference Evening to further enhance our communication with families about their child's achievement. While the event is slightly shorter than the one held in March, it will follow a similar format.

Parent-teacher interviews for Years 11 and 12 will be held from 2.30 pm to 6.00 pm on the above date in the College Gymnasium.

We will send detailed booking information closer to the date. We look forward to seeing you there.

End of Year 10 Day

Save the date: Friday, 4 December 2026.

This date marks the last day of Year 10 for 2026. There is no school for Year 10 students in Week 9. The day 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.

Career Events

Careers Expo 14 - 17 May. Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre

The Careers Expo could be your first step towards your future pathway.  It is at the Convention Centre on Thursday, 14, and Friday, 15 May, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Saturday, 16 May, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sunday, 17 May, from 10:00 am to 3.00 pm.

To register for free and for more information, including to see who is exhibiting, click HERE.

This event is for students, graduates, and job seekers and is open to everyone of all ages. It’s perfect for anyone pondering their future, seeking personal development, training, or employment opportunities.  A Special Note for Year 10. If you are in Year 10, the Expo can help you decide what subjects you may need to study in Years 11 and 12.

Girls Programming Network – 17 May - Learn to Code Free Workshop

The Girls Programming Network runs free, full-day workshops that teach high school girls and gender minorities in Years 7 - 12 to code using Python. It’s on at the UWA Student Hub. Get details and register HERE.

WAAPA Short Courses for Term 2 for High School Students

Weekend Workshops: Acting

• Acting Audition Masterclass
• The Actor's Lab
• The Screen Actor's Lab

13 – 17 July Winter School for Years 7 – 12

• Acting for Camera
• Acting for Stage
• Dance Squad
• Music Theatre Kickstarter

Early bird price closes June 1

27 June College of Electrical Training Open Day

CET Open Day is a great opportunity for high school students considering a career in the electrical industry to find out more about studying an electrical apprenticeship at CET.

Date: Saturday, 27 June 2026
Time: 9.00 am - 11.30 am
Venue: CET Joondalup Campus - 20 Injune Way and CET Jandakot Campus - 5 Avior Ave.

For more Information and to register, click HERE

Defence Force Gap Year

If you are not sure what you want to do next year, check out the Defence Force Gap Year program.
• You get paid.
• You have somewhere to live.
• You learn new skills.
• You travel, and you meet new people.

The website is great, with personal stories from young people who are doing the Gap Year.

There are 22 career paths to choose from. Check them out HERE.

University News

NEW University Open Day Calendar 2026

Extreme weather warnings for Cyclone Narelle led both Curtin and Murdoch to reschedule their open days.

Murdoch Open Day - Rescheduled to 23 May - Get details HERE.

Curtin Open Day - Rescheduled to 24 May - 10.00 am – 3.00 pm - Get details HERE.

ECU City - 9 August - Get details HERE.

Year 12 Opportunities

Casper medical entry test and interview training

The Casper test is crucial if you’re applying to Curtin Medicine (undergraduate) or Notre Dame (postgraduate).

Casper Webinar 10.00 am – 12.30 pm

• Sunday May 10
• Sunday August 2
• Saturday September 12

Find details HERE

Casper Test for Veterinary Medicine at Murdoch

Please make sure you select the Veterinary Medicine version of this test.

If you’re planning to apply for Veterinary Medicine in 2027, sitting the 2026 Casper test is an essential part of your application. Murdoch University requires all Veterinary Science applicants to complete the undergraduate Casper assessment, with 2026 test dates scheduled for:

• 14 May
• 21 June

Casper is an online situational judgement test that takes around 65–85 minutes and assesses qualities like communication, empathy, problem‑solving and resilience, attributes that are crucial for future veterinarians. You can only sit the test once per admissions cycle, so we strongly recommend registering early (at least three days before your chosen test date) to avoid missing out and ensure your application remains valid.

To book your test, visit:https://acuityinsights.app/

Out Now: Year 12 SCSA Information Handbook 2026, Part 1

The Year 12 handbook is provided in two parts, with Part I for all Year 12 students, including information about:

• Key dates that are important to you this year.
• What is involved in the WASSA and the WACE.
• The student portal and the WACE Checker.
• Equivalences and how they can count towards your WACE.
• School-based assessment and how it works.
• Examinations (the focus of Part II, available in July), and general advice on life as a Year 12 student.

Download the Handbook HERE.

Curtin 2027 Excellence Scholarship

The Curtin Excellence Scholarship has been developed for students who have demonstrated academic excellence through their 2026 ATAR and who want to pursue study at Curtin University.

Application forms are not required; students apply by selecting an eligible Curtin degree through TISC as their first preference by the scholarship closing date.

Students who receive the StepUp bonus and therefore achieve the required ATAR will be eligible for this scholarship. Check the details HERE.

2026 Medicine - University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) Bookings Open

If you want to apply for medicine in 2027, you will need to undertake a UCAT assessment.

These are the important dates for UCAT in 2026:

Deadline times are 11.59 pm AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time).

BOOKING OPENED - 3 March 2026

Concession Application Deadline - 11 May 2026

Access Arrangements Application Deadline - 15 May 2026

BOOKING DEADLINE - 15 May 2026

Late Booking Deadline - Late Access Arrangements Application Deadline - 29 May 2026

FINAL Late Booking Deadline - 5 June 2026

Cancellation Deadline - 12 June 2026

Testing Begins - 1 July 2026

Last Testing Date - 5 August 2026

Results Delivered to Universities - Early September 2026

Sign up for notices on the UCAT ANZ website.

Curtin Medicine Admission Guides

Download your Curtin Domestic Admission Guide
Download your Curtin International Admission Guide

Veterinary Medicine at Murdoch - 31 July - Applications Close

The 2027 Veterinary Medicine Admissions Guide is now available, and all applicants should review it before applying. It outlines key requirements for entry into Murdoch’s BSc/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program, including completion of the Casper assessment and submission of the official application form.

All applications for this program must be submitted through TISC and are due by 31 July 2026.

See information about the Casper Test for Murdoch Veterinary Medicine above.

Year 9 – 10 Opportunities

3 June | Murdoch | Parents and Supporters Information Evening

There are hundreds of study choices for school leavers. We’re here to help you through this exciting new chapter in your teen’s life by providing all the information you need to guide them through Years 10, 11, 12 and beyond.

Join us for a Parent Information Evening where we'll cover:

• How to help your child choose preferences
• Course offerings
• Fees and Scholarships

This session is available in person or online. Register HERE.

Creating a Playlist to Study by

How Music Can Transform Your Study Sessions

For many students, studying feels like a solo journey through a mountain of books and notes. But what if the right background music could make the process more enjoyable, focused, and productive? Creating a study playlist tailored to your needs can enhance concentration, reduce stress, and even help you retain information better. Let’s explore how to use music strategically to boost your study game.

1. Choose the Right Genre for the Task

Different types of music work better for different study activities. For tasks requiring deep concentration, classical or instrumental music is ideal. The absence of lyrics ensures you won’t get distracted while reading or writing. Lo-fi beats are another excellent option, providing a steady rhythm that helps maintain focus without overwhelming your senses.

For brainstorming sessions or creative work, try upbeat instrumental tracks or even light jazz. These genres can spark ideas and keep you energised.

Tip: Experiment with nature sounds like rain or waves if you prefer a completely distraction-free environment.

2. Keep the Volume Low

While music can be motivating, it’s important to remember that too much stimulation can have the opposite effect. A loud, fast-paced song might be great for a workout but can be distracting when studying. Keep your playlist at a low volume, allowing it to serve as background noise that enhances focus rather than competing for your attention.

Tip: Use noise-cancelling headphones to block out other distractions and immerse yourself in your study zone.

3. Avoid Lyrics When Reading or Writing

Songs with lyrics are notorious for disrupting focus during tasks that involve reading or writing. It’s hard to analyse Shakespeare or draft an essay when your brain is processing the words in a pop song. Instead, save lyrical tracks for tasks like organising your desk, planning your week, or taking breaks.

Tip: If you’re drawn to lyrical music, consider songs in a language you don’t speak fluently, so the words become more like sounds than distractions.

4. Build a Custom Playlist

Creating a dedicated study playlist is key to avoiding distractions. Instead of spending time skipping tracks, curate a list of songs that fit your study style. Apps like Spotify offer pre-made playlists for studying, such as ‘Focus’, ‘Deep Focus’, and ‘Lo-Fi Beats’, which can serve as inspiration.

Tip: Arrange your playlist to start with calming tracks to focus, add more energetic songs for motivation, and end with slower tracks to wind down.

A Soundtrack for Success

Music is more than just entertainment—it can be a powerful ally in your study routine. By selecting the right genres, controlling the volume, and tailoring your playlist to your tasks, you can create an environment that keeps you motivated and focused. Experiment with your playlist, refine it over time, and discover the tunes that make studying more enjoyable and effective. So, grab your headphones, press play, and let the music work its magic.

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

Child Safety Networks - Who can I talk to?

A "Safety Network" is a child protection tool where children identify trusted adults to turn to if they feel unsafe, scared, or concerned about someone else. These could be be parents, relatives, coaches and, quite often, teachers

At Helena College if a student has a concern they can talk to any teacher or staff member they feel comfortable with across both campuses. We also have dedicated staff identified in posters around the school as Child Protection Officers. Our Child Protection Officers can advise and assist students in most situations involving child safety incidents or concerns.

Introducing our 2026 CPOs

Justin Pitt | Head of Senior Campus

Mia N, Year 7

Mia recently competed in the WA State Championships of Highland Dancing. This was the 100th Anniversary of the Dewar Cup which made it an extra special competition. Mia was asked to step up into the top level of Highland Premier, for this competition. This was a last minute decision and Mia only had a few weeks to learn the Championship steps.

Mia did very well placing in all dances, seven in total to be placed 3rd over all in the 7-11 years section.

Mia hopes to travel to the East Coast next year to participate in Junior Ozscot Development Squad and eventually perform at Edinburgh Castle as apart of the Military Tattoo. 

Bailey R, Year 11

Congratulations to Bailey on being selected in the WA U16 State Basketball WA team! The team is preparing to compete at the School Sport Australia National Championship in Melbourne, during July. Bailey's selection comes in addition to his recent participation in the Basketball Australia National Junior U18 Championships in Brisbane.  We wish Bailey and his teammates all the best in their training for the upcoming School Sport Australia event.

Jenaveve (Year 9) Equestrian

We are excited to share the news that one of our Year 9 students Jenaveve, has walked away with some incredible results from the WA State Equestrian Interschool Championships. During the school holiday, Jenaveve competed in a four day competition with her horses, Flower and Saffron. She competed in the combined training round which included Dressage - a display where the horse and rider perform a memorised series of precise movements, and Showjumping - where horse and rider teams navigate a course of 10-13 obstacles within a set time focusing on speed and accuracy. Jenaveve finished the competition with a number of rosettes including:

Flower - Overall Dressage 1st Place and Overall combined training 4th Place

Saffron - Overall Dressage 4th Place

Jenaveve’s horses each received a letter invitation to join the WA National Interschools team in Victoria in September later in the year. Congratulations, Jenaveve on an amazing achievement.

It has been many years since Helena College has been represented at an Equestrian event, and we were delighted that Jenaveve chose to participate this year. We wish her all the best with her competitions!

GEN AI Bootcamps is a Curtin University initiative for autistic youths aged 13-18 years. Funded by the Department of Social Services, the bootcamps are conducted over the school holidays in 2025 and 2026. GEN AI Bootcamps aims to help address educational challenges of the target audience, as well as increase social integration and community engagement. Last year, GEN AI Bootcamps ran two successful bootcamps at Curtin University and Mandurah Catholic College.

Jack E, Year 9, registered to attend the bootcamp, which ran for four days at Curtin University. Jack thoroughly enjoyed the experience. BC News did a story on it, and Jack can be spotted in the video a few times! Click here to view the story.  

The Duke of Edinburgh is a youth development program for all young people aged 14-24, regardless of background or circumstances, to explore their potential by learning a skill, being physically active, volunteering in the community and going on an adventure!

Recently the Duke of Ed has undergone some significant updates, one of them involving the Bronze Award. In order to reduce complexity, all Bronze level users will no longer need to complete a major section. This means that the Bronze Award can now be completed in as little as three months. And what’s even better, this is now extended to all incomplete Bronze level records on the ORB!

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the following students who have elected to complete a Duke of Edinburgh Award:

• Cadence G – Silver
• Charlotte H – Bronze
• Chelsea S – Bronze
• Chelsea P – Bronze
• Conal F-R – Bronze
• Emily R – Bronze
• Evelyn D – Bronze
• Harrison Y – Bronze
• Isla S – Bronze
• Jackson S – Bronze
• Jemma J – Bronze
• Morgan V – Bronze
• Paige M – Bronze
• Sasha R – Silver
• Scarlett W - Bronze

I would also like to congratulate the following students for recently completing their Awards which were presented at the end of 2025:

• Alicia S-M - Silver
• Dante C – Silver
• Harrison M – Bronze
• Stella Y – Silver
• Stephanie S – Silver
• Violet T – Bronze

If you want to have adventures, learn about new things, meet people who share your interests, help others, build confidence, resilience and employability skills, get fitter and work as part of a team…please check out the Duke of Edinburgh link in my.Helena or the Duke of Edinburgh website https://dukeofed.com.au/doing-the-award/ for more information and speak to Ms Murray if you are interested.

I’m looking forward to supporting the newly joined students and the existing students to complete their award over the coming months.

Rebecca Murray | Duke of Ed Award Leader

Countdown as of Friday 6 May: 26 weeks to go

Parent Information Session

The parent session was held in Week One and shared information about the Year 9 Project. If you were not able to attend, you can find a copy of the parent booklet and the PowerPoint presentation in the Project class for your student in my.helena.

Year 9 Project Interviews

The project interviews will be complete by the end of Week Four and all students will be advised of their project supervisor by the end of that week. Students should be walking into their first meeting with their supervisor with ‘Entry 2’ completed and a start on the design specifications for the project. A copy of the notes made during each interview has been scanned and attached to each students ‘Project’ class. Parents are able to access these documents via my.Helena.

Process Journals

As most students have commenced their project they should have organised their process journals and started recording their initial reflections. There are many prompts throughout the student booklet to assist students with ideas for these important reflections. Students are also welcome to borrow process journals from previous projects to use as a guide and ‘mentor’ to their own process journals. These will also be taken to class each week and can be used as a reference.

Mentors

Whilst not compulsory, someone who can support the product development is recommended. This person could be a parent, neighbour, family friend, a teacher or someone else that is willing to offer a guiding hand. A letter of introduction, explaining their role in the project is available as a digital file from the ‘Project’ class in my.helena.

We have an amazing range of projects so far, including, much to my surprise, many unique projects that haven’t been completed before as a project at the College! I am so excited to see the final ‘visions’ during the exhibition.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any further queries regarding the Year 9 Project.

Rebecca Murray - Project Coordinator

VIBE 2026

Once a fortnight during their library lesson, the Year 6 students and each English class in years 7 to 9 visit the library for a VIBE (Very Important Book Experience) opportunity to immerse themselves in books and reading for pleasure. This year an enhanced digital log provides opportunities for students to record their reading progress and earn points towards an end-of-year celebration. As of this newsletter, 39 students have already logged enough points to attend the celebration, an amazing accomplishment! Keep up the reading and logging.

Premier’s Reading Challenge

It’s back for 2026 and students are welcome to register for this year using the same details as they have used in previous years or register if this is their first time joining the challenge. Any student is welcome to join the challenge and log their reading on the PRC website. Students need to read and log 12 books over the 12 weeks of the challenge. They can choose to read books, short stories, graphic novels, eBooks or anything that sparks their interest!

Any student who reads 12 books and logs them during the challenge period will receive a certificate from the Premier of Western Australia and the Minister of Education. There are also weekly chances to win amazing prizes drawn at random when they log online at least one piece of reading material.

So encourage your child to log their reading here between Monday 23 March and Friday 12 June.

Happy reading

Rebecca Murray | Teacher Librarian

ACC Interschool Cross Country

Students have already nominated for the ACC Interschool Cross Country, which will be held on Thursday Week Six (May 28th) and feature a new 4km course for all age groups in 2026.

Cross Country training has commenced with sessions being held on Tuesdays at lunchtime (1:10pm) and Fridays before school (7:45am), both taking place on the GFC School Oval.

Students who have signed-up are encouraged to attend regularly to continue building their fitness, endurance and race preparation. Please ensure students arrive with appropriate running gear and a water bottle.

We look forward to seeing strong participation throughout the term as students prepare for the upcoming ACC Cross Country Carnival.

ACC Senior Netball Championship

We would like to wish our Year 11 and 12 students the very best of luck as they represent the school at the ACC Senior Netball Championships on Friday 8 May.  The students have shown great commitment and teamwork in preparation for the event, and we look forward to seeing them compete against other schools across the competition. We encourage all students to get behind the team and wish them every success on the day! 

Upcoming Events

Looking ahead to later in the term, the Year 6 Basketball Slam Series will take place in Week Nine (Friday), providing Year 6 students with an exciting opportunity to compete against other schools and further develop their basketball teamwork and game skills.

Also in Week Nine, our Year 11 and 12 students will participate in the Senior NIAS Carnival for Soccer and Basketball. We look forward to seeing our senior students represent the school with pride and enthusiasm across both competitions.

The Glen Forrest Campus Academic Support and Clubs have had a few changes for Term Two. A broad range of services available to help you students succeed in their studies, including one-one-one tutoring, study groups and workshops remain a feature of the calendar. We also have a range of clubs and activities on offer, so there's something for everyone. Come along and make the most of what's on offer. View the timetable here.

After many weeks of students looking forward to Year 8 camp, Monday of Week Eight, Term One saw us depart early and make the journey through Williams and Kojonup before arriving in Albany. Once at camp, the students were welcomed by picturesque views across the Princess Royal Harbour with Camp Quaranup providing an exceptional base for the week ahead.

Students then received an introduction by Quaranup staff and enjoyed afternoon tea before settling into dorms and camp groups. After dinner, the itinerary was underway with a variety of team building games taking us into the evening.

Across the rest of the week, the Year 8s took part in a packed itinerary. They visited the Museum of the Great Southern, the National ANZAC Centre, the Historic Whaling Station, and the rugged coastline at The Gap and Natural Bridge. They also tried their hand at kite-making, took a guided walk around Quaranup, read the story of the Lighthouse Girl and tested their senses on the sensation trail. Most students also took part in Sailing or Canoeing on the waters of the Princess Royal Harbour; however, with strong winds Thursday, these activities were switched to Archery which proved to be a very popular alternative.

The evenings provided the opportunity to enjoy pizza on the foreshore, attend Ten Pin Bowling, and create wearable pieces of art at camp. Thursday night then saw our final activity bring the camp to a close with the students testing their knowledge on all things Camp Quaranup with the Quaranup Quiz.

With the Year 8s thoroughly enjoying their time in Albany we were up early Friday morning and on our way back to school. The return journey once again proved to be a far quieter affair than a week earlier with many catching up on some rest. Proof of a week well spent!

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.The following are this edition's submissions:

ADHD With Me Parent Information Sessions 

These sessions help parents better understand ADHD, learn practical strategies to support their children, and strengthen the home–school partnership.

South of the River sessions: https://events.humanitix.com/adhd-with-me-parent-workshop-lgz5zz2m
North of the River sessions: https://events.humanitix.com/adhd-with-me-parent-workshop-cjf8fg77

BeTWEEN You + Me | Mundaring Shire and Midvale Hub

Suitable for parents and/or carers of daughter's 10- to 13-year-olds . This program brings parents and their Tween daughter together to strengthen their connection during early adolescence. We explore mental health, social and emotional development, friendships, and the influence of the digital world, using shared conversations to strengthen relationships and support open communication.  This program is delivered in two stages. Parents or carers attend the first two weeks, followed by the young person attending the final three weeks of the program.  A light dinner is provided for the first four weeks. In the final week, families are encouraged to bring a plate to share.

We explore practical strategies to support communication, understanding, and positive relationships with your tween daughter, gaining insight into the drivers behind adolescent behaviour and development and a supportive space for shared learning, connection, and navigating the tween years with confidence.

Location: Mundaring Arena (Upstairs), 50 Mundaring Weir Rd, Mundaring

Date: Tuesday 26 May, 2, 9, 16, 23 June 2026 (must be able to attend all sessions)

Time: 6 pm to 8pm

Book online

Tuning in to Teens | headspace and Mundaring Shire

Designed for parents and carers of young people aged 11–18 years (Year 6 to Year 12). The 6 week program will be held at the headspace Midland and focuses on supporting adolescents emotional wellbeing and strengthening family connections — something we know is so valuable for our local community.  Tuning in to Teens Midland

Other Opportunities

Winter Sports Camps 2026