Christian Brothers College Adelaide
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214 Wakefield Street
Adelaide SA 5000
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Email: enquiries@cbc.sa.edu.au
Phone: 08 8400 4200

Term 1, Week 1 - 31 January, 2025

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Term 1, Week 1 - 31 January, 2025
CBC acknowledges that we are meeting on the traditional country of the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land. We acknowledge that they are of continuing importance to the Kaurna people living today.

This week's Principal's Message from Mr David Johnston

Cameron AlexanderCameron Alexander

 
Welcome

As the 2025 academic year commences, I welcome all new and returning students and their families. After a period of time at Rostrevor College in 2024 I am very happy to return to CBC.

Understandably, many of the students commencing this year will have had some trepidation as they transitioned into a new school or even commenced school for the first time. Still, my hope for them all is that by the time you receive this newsletter, they will have put any fears behind them and settled into life at CBC. 

We have also welcomed a number of new staff to the College in 2025.  I take this opportunity to formally introduce and welcome:

  • Alexandra Daou: Teacher (Junior Campus – Year 1)
  • Luke Teakle: Teacher (Junior Campus – Reception)
  • Kameron Bazzo: Teacher (Junior Campus – Year 6)
  • Jarrod Potito: Teacher (Senior Campus)
  • Aaron Caesarikow: Teacher (Senior Campus)
  • Jakob Rogers: Teacher (Senior Campus)
  • Deon Visser: Teacher (Senior Campus)
  • Archie Smith: Teacher (Senior Campus)
  • Luka Poulain: Teacher (R – 8 Music)
  • Joshua Weis: Education Support Officer (Inclusive Ed – Senior Campus)
  • Tania Scardigno: Education Support Officer (Food Technology – Senior Campus)
  • Jackson Ritter: Education Support Officer (Research & Literacy Learning Support)
  • Brock Mitchell: Education Support Officer (Research & Literacy Learning Support)
  • Will Huddy: Education Support Officer (Research & Literacy Learning Support)
  • Luis Matteo: Education Support Officer (Research & Literacy Learning Support)

We look forward to opportunities to welcome families next week:

Meet the Teacher Evening – Monday 3 February

  • Junior Campus 5:30pm
  • Senior Campus 6:30pm

  

Uniform Expectations

Through last year, we commenced our transition to the new CBC Uniform.  For 2025, students may wear either the current or new items; this can include a mix of the old and new items.  However, starting in 2026, all CBC students must wear the correct new uniform.

The following are the key changes to the CBC uniform:

  • Summer & Winter Uniform:
    • New CBC purple striped long and short sleeve shirts and tie
    • New Charcoal CBC jumper and vest
    • New Charcoal CBC trousers and shorts with CBC socks
  • Physical Education Uniform:
    • New Charcoal CBC PE shorts and tracksuit bottoms
    • New Charcoal CBC sports jacket, jogger top, and sports vest

 

However, some elements of the uniform have remained untouched. Specifically, our predominant colour remains purple, and the College blazer has not changed.

As we transition into the new items, here are a few reminders:

  • Items from the Sports and PE Uniform and the Formal Uniform should not be worn together. For example, the sports jacket should not be worn over the Summer uniform or the Grey School jumper over the PE Uniform.
  • The Uniform is a public representation of the College; as such, it is important that all boys wear the College correctly and with pride both in school and whilst in public, this includes why they travel to and from school.
  • The changes to items mean students can choose to wear a long or short-sleeved shirt at any time of year. Whilst the short-sleeve shirt is designed so it can be worn out, the long-sleeve shirt is not and must always be tucked in, even if worn with shorts.  In Terms 2 and 3, boys must wear a tie; this can be worn with both the Long and short-sleeved shirt, and they must both be tucked in when worn with a tie.

I encourage you to view our updated Uniform Policy to be familiar with the College’s expectations.

 

Parking and Road Safety

The commencement of the year is an opportune time to remind parents and caregivers of the need for us to take responsibility for safety around both campuses, especially at drop-off and pick-up times.

Below is some information previously shared with the College by the Adelaide City Council regarding road safety near schools.  Included is some very practical information that, if followed by all, will ensure we provide the safest possible environment for our boys.  I have included the information below as a reminder for all parents:

Parking Zones around the school are put in place to ensure pedestrian safety. Children are in particular danger near schools because:

  • Their small size makes it hard for drivers to see them between traffic, parked cars, stobie poles and other obstacles.
  • They are easily distracted and may not be aware of traffic.
  • They may suddenly run onto the road - e.g. to meet a parent.

Some road rules you particularly need to be aware of are:

  • You must not stop in a No-Stopping Zone, even for a few seconds, to pick up your child.
  • You may stop in a No-Parking Zone for a few seconds to pick up a child waiting nearby. You must not park or leave the vehicle.
  • You must not Double Park or stop in the line of traffic to pick up or drop off a child.
  • You must not stop in a Bicycle Lane.
  • You must not stop within 20 metres before a crossing or 10 metres after a crossing.
  • You must not stop within 10 metres of an intersection or junction without traffic lights.

Please be mindful of your own behaviour around our campuses, especially in relation to where you park.  We all have a responsibility to take extra care so we are all safe.  Whilst we may all prefer a car spot directly outside the door for a swift drop-off or pick-up, this is not always possible.  In these instances, a short walk from a parking spot nearby is far safer than putting all at risk by indulging in some of the dangerous practices outlined above.

 

Nut Aware School

As an inclusive community, there are times when we all need to take care of those members who need special consideration.  One such case is that we currently have a number of boys who have nut allergies, which requires they must not have contact with any nut products.  For this reason, we ask that from the start of the year, no nut products are brought onto the campus.  This policy can cause inconvenience, but as we become used to it, this will be reduced.  The care and safety of our students is our priority at all times.

Whilst all staff annually undertake appropriate first-aid training to ensure we can assist a student if they require our assistance, we would all agree that we would not wish to see any student’s health and wellbeing out at risk in the first place.  Your support in this matter is much appreciated.

 

Mr Cameron Alexander
Executive Deputy Principal

 

 

Translate this into your language

Lee Del Col

Lee Del Col

 
Congratulations to all the staff and students on what has been one of the smoothest starts to an academic year in my time. On Tuesday, we had just under 130 Year 7s commence their first day of high school, and I must commend the efforts of our Assistant Director of Students – Middle School and Transition, Mr Riley Atkinson, and the Heads of House, who ensured the orientation and transition had been structured, welcoming and seamless. On the other side of the schooling spectrum, our Year 12 cohort had their oxymoronically titled 'final first day' of school. As is tradition, our College Captain, Orville, read the Year 12 pledge and rang the old school bell. The next time he rings this bell will be on their final day of schooling – less than 32 academic weeks away!

On Wednesday, we welcomed back all our Year 8s to 11s, where the day began with a Welcome Assembly before students commenced lessons. Orville gave his first speech for the year, which was motivational and spoke of the vision and intent of his Prefect Team for the year ahead. Orville spoke fluently and passionately, leaving me grateful that I never have to follow him when delivering speeches in the future.

College Captain, Orville Jones' Welcome Speech to Students

 

In a different form of inspiration, we also welcomed back Javale (Year 8), who has shown that the triumvirate of prayers, his determination, and familial love are truly capable of healing. It was an emotional and uplifting moment seeing him walk through the gates in his PE uniform with his parents and little sister, one that we are all so proud of and grateful for. Thank you to all the students and staff involved in aiding his return to the rhythm of schooling life.

Javale returning to CBC and spending time with his friends

 

In addition to the new Year 7s, we have over 30 new students from Years 8 to 12 beginning their time at the Senior Campus. Their attraction to CBC is for a myriad of reasons. Some have moved from interstate, while many have joined us seeking a community that is welcoming, supportive and reputable for achieving excellent academic outcomes (you will hear more about this in the following newsletter as we reflect on the SACE achievements of our 2024 Year 12 cohort – they are exceptional and some of the best in the state!). Consequently, as we remain committed to smaller class sizes and capping cohorts, the senior campus is nearing capacity and only has some positions remaining at certain year levels. It is a sure sign that we are on the right track.

Although Study Groups do not commence officially until next week, the library, with a skeleton tutoring staff, was open this week. Seeing students from all year levels begin using this support from day one indicates our boys’ culture towards learning and working together. Great work, gentlemen!

Looking ahead, we have a few significant events coming up over the next couple of weeks. Please note:

Week 2

  • Monday 3 February – Meet the Parent Evening, after hours
  • Friday 7 February – 2024 Dux Assembly – students are to wear their summer uniform (no PE)

Week 3

  • Tuesday 11 February – Missioning Mass – students are to wear their summer uniform (no PE)
  • Wednesday 12 to Friday 14 February – Music Camp for selected students

As always, please do not hesitate to contact any of our leadership team if we can assist.

 

Dr Lee Del Col
Deputy Principal – Head of Senior Campus

 
Loving God,

As we begin a new school year, we place our families in Your loving care. Bless each household with unity, understanding, and joy as they embrace the opportunities and challenges that this year will bring.

Grant parents and caregivers the wisdom to guide their children with love and patience, nurturing their growth and supporting their dreams. Help them to create homes filled with peace and encouragement, where their children feel safe and valued.

Bless our students with curiosity, resilience, and kindness. May they approach each day with a sense of wonder, a desire to learn, and a heart ready to serve others. Guide them in their friendships and help them grow into the people You have called them to be.

Strengthen our school community so that we may work together in partnership, creating an environment where all families feel welcomed, supported, and inspired.

As we journey through this year, may we trust in Your guidance and find comfort in Your presence, knowing that You walk with us every step of the way.

We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Amen.

  

Alison RonoastroAlison Ronoastro

Welcome Back!

Welcome back to another exciting year at Christian Brothers College Junior Campus! I hope you all enjoyed a restful and rejuvenating break, creating wonderful memories with your loved ones.

As we step into a new school year, we look forward to building on the strong sense of community that defines our campus. Together, we will continue to nurture and inspire our students to grow academically, socially, and spiritually.

A special welcome to our new families and staff joining us this year – we are thrilled to have you as part of our community. This is an opportunity to embark on a journey of learning, growth, and collaboration as we support our students in reaching their full potential.

We are excited to kick off the term with our Meet the Teacher event and look forward to seeing you next Monday 3 February. Let us work together to make this year a fulfilling and successful one for all.

 

Meet the Junior Campus Team

This year we have 4 new staff members joining us.  Each of the newsletter articles this year will have a spotlight on one of the amazing staff members at the Junior Campus. This week, we are starting with Mr Henry Vo who is one of the Year 3 teachers.

Getting to Know Mr Henry Vo

What inspired you to become a teacher? Growing up in Vietnam, I had teachers who truly cared and listened. When I moved to Australia, I faced bullying for being different. Instead of labelling me when I misbehaved, my teachers took the time to understand me. Their kindness and patience inspired me to give back, and teaching seemed like the perfect way to make a difference.

If you could have any other career, what would it be and why? If I wasn't a teacher, I'd be a gardener. I love being outdoors, and the idea of shaping plants and watching them flourish is fascinating. Plus, who wouldn't want to be surrounded by beautiful flowers and delicious fruits all day?

Teaching Philosophy

What do you enjoy most about teaching your current year level or subject? I adore how fun, loving, and energetic my students are. My previous Year 3 students reignited my passion for teaching, and my current students are an absolute blessing.

What is one lesson or skill you hope every student takes away from your class? I believe that kindness doesn't require talent. I encourage my students to surround themselves with positive people and spread peace through love and kindness.

Fun and Personal Interests

Do you have a favourite book, movie, or TV show you'd recommend to students or parents? I'm a huge fan of 'Titanic', and my favourite song is 'My Heart Will Go On' by Celine Dion. The epic, gut-wrenching love story combined with incredible cinematics makes it a timeless favourite.

Goals and Aspirations

What's the best piece of advice you've received about teaching? The best advice I've received is to have fun and focus on building relationships. It keeps you young, motivated, and connected to your students.

 

Classroom Teachers:

Please see below the Junior Campus team:

  • Reception White – Mrs Sian McGradey
  • Reception Purple – Mr Luke Teakle
  • Year 1 White – Mrs Alexandra Daou
  • Year 2 White – Mrs Ann Ozgo
  • Year 2 Purple - Ms Angela Giglio
  • Year 3 White – Mr Henry Vo
  • Year 3 Purple – Mrs Courtnie Costa
  • Year 4 White – Mr Oliver Megins and Mrs Rachael Saint
  • Year 4 Purple – Ms Shenae Dougan
  • Year 5 White – Ms Lauren Mercer and Mr Simon Nardecchia
  • Year 5 Purple – Mrs Sara Papathanasopoulos
  • Year 6 White – Ms Kameron Bazzo
  • Year 6 Purple – Mrs Sandra Buchanan
  • Year 6 Gold – Mr Dylan Cook
  • Permanent Relief Teacher - Ms Jenny Xiang

Specialist Teachers:

  • Inclusive Education Coordinator – Mrs Karen Chambers
  • PE – Mr Sam Barbara and Mr Oliver Megins
  • Digital Technology / Library – Mrs Jackie Hodgson
  • Music – Mr Luka Poulain
  • Chinese – Ms Joanna Tao

Education Support Officers:

  • Jody Petherick – Front Office Admin
  • Gabby Princi - Front Office Admin
  • Emma Alexander – Junior Campus Canteen Manager
  • Kathryn Brink - Classroom Support
  • Tanya Annetta – Classroom Support
  • Tahlia Zollo – Classroom Support
  • Koiranah Jacob – Bilingual Student Support Officer
  • Monique Caldinez – JC Counsellor
  • Karyn Falting – OSHC Director
  • Kathi Kumar – Assistant OSHC Director

Junior Campus Leadership Team:

  • Mrs Alison Ronoastro - Head of Junior Campus
  • Mrs Karen Chambers – Junior Campus Inclusive Education Coordinator
  • Ms Lauren Mercer – Junior Campus Teaching and Learning Coordinator
  • Mr Simon Nardecchia – Junior Campus Wellbeing Coordinator / Religious Education Coordinator

All these staff members can be contacted via SEQTA using Direqt Messaging.

 

Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Transition Back to School

Re-establish Routines: Gradually reintroduce school-time routines, including regular meals, earlier bedtimes, and morning schedules. This helps children adjust smoothly.

Create a Positive Atmosphere: Talk about the exciting aspects of going back to school, such as seeing friends, new learning opportunities, and upcoming events.

Prepare Together: Involve your child in packing their school bag, choosing their outfit, and organising their materials. This builds excitement and responsibility.

Be Supportive: Listen to any concerns or anxieties your child may have about returning to school. Reassure them and provide solutions to ease their worries.

Stay Informed: Familiarise yourself with the school’s calendar, policies, and any updates. Being informed helps you support your child better.

Encourage Healthy Habits: Promote a balanced diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep to keep your child energised and focused.

Check In Regularly: Once school starts, ask your child about their day, what they learned, and any challenges they might be facing. Open communication is key to identifying and addressing any issues early on.

 

Uniform

This is a friendly reminder to double-check the days your son has PE, co-curricular training, or games, so he can wear the correct uniform. His timetable is available on SEQTA, or you can contact his classroom teacher for clarification.

On PE and co-curricular days, he should wear his PE uniform. On all other days, the summer uniform is required. Please also ensure he brings his broad-brimmed hat to school each day, as it is essential for break times and PE lessons. He will also need to bring a drink bottle, which can be refilled throughout the day at one of the numerous drink fountains.

Thank you for your attention to this matter as we strive to maintain consistency and readiness throughout the school week.

 

Start and Finishing Times

To ensure a safe and smooth start to each school day, please take note of the following procedures:

Morning Drop-Off

  • The gates will open at 8:20am, allowing students to enter, drop their bags in the courtyard, and head over to the park.
  • The gates will close at 8:48am, by which time all students should be in class.
  • If you arrive after this time, your son must enter through the front office to be marked as present.
  • Important: Students who arrive early and are waiting unsupervised out the front will be collected and placed into “Before School Care” for their safety, as this area is not supervised.

Afternoon Pick-Up

  • The school day concludes at 3:15 pm.
    • Students in Reception to Year 2 must be collected from the courtyard. Please notify your son’s teacher when you have collected him.
    • Students in Years 3 to 6 may wait at the front or back gate for collection.
  • A teacher will be on duty at the front gate until 3:40 pm. Any students not collected by this time will be placed in OSHC for supervision.
  • If you know you are going to be a few minutes late, please contact the Junior Campus so we are aware, and also let your son know, as they do worry if no one is there to collect them.

Traffic Safety and Parking Around CBC

  • Please allow adequate time to find a park and walk your son to school; sometimes, finding a park out in front of the school can be tricky.
  • Please, no double parking out the front of the school during these busy periods of the day, as you are then blocking the bike lane, which then compromises everyone's safety.
  • Please use the pedestrian crossing at the intersection of Wakefield and Hutt Street, rather than trying to cross Wakefield Street during peak hour time.
  • Please abide by the traffic rules around the school and do not pull up where there are solid yellow lines, as this affects the flow of traffic around the school.
  • Please be mindful of the neighbours and do not park across their driveways.
  • Please reduce your speed limit around the school.

We appreciate your cooperation in following these procedures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students.

 

Key dates for Term 1

  • Meet the Teacher Evening – Monday 3 February at 5.30pm
  • Community Mass in the Junior Campus Chapel – Friday 7 February 8 – 8.30am
  • Year 6 students in Canberra – Sunday 16 February until Friday 21 February
  • Junior Campus Leaders Assembly – Friday 28 February at 9am

    
Mrs Alison Ronoastro
Head of Junior Campus

 

INSIDE CBC Issue 4 Now Available!

Inside_CBC_Issue_4.jp

Click to Read Now

Debra WithersDebra Withers

 
Welcome Back!

The Pastoral Care team is thrilled to welcome you all back for an exciting new academic year! As we embark on another journey of learning and growth, we are pleased to introduce two new leaders who will play key roles in supporting our students:

  • Riley Atkinson
    Mr Riley Atkinson will move to the new position of Assistant Director of Students (Middle Years and Transition). Mr Atkinson will be instrumental in ensuring a smooth and supportive transition for our middle-year students, helping them navigate academic and personal growth with confidence.
  • Mr Tom Corkery
    Replacing Mr Atkinson, our new Head of Avila House, Mr Tom Corkery, brings a wealth of experience in Boys’ Education and pastoral care. We look forward to his energy, passion and guidance being used to foster a strong and supportive house spirit for Avila House.
 

     

    Exciting Upcoming Events!

    Event – Meet the PC Teacher Night

    One of the first events from the PC team is the Meet the Teacher night on Monday 3 February from 6.30–8.00pm. This will be an opportunity to meet your son’s PC teacher and other key staff as well as other parents. The evening will have some information sharing but mainly a social focus, with drinks and nibbles being served in the Western yard and Conference Centre, which is airconditioned, from 7.00–8.00pm.

    Information regarding the evening has been sent via SEQTA and email. Registration for the event can be made using the link below:

     

    Formal College Events – Full Summer Uniform Expectations

    Two upcoming formal events at the College require students to wear summer uniform (no PE) as follows:

    • Dux Assembly – Friday 7 February (Week 2)
    • Missioning Mass – Tuesday 11 of February (Week 3)

    If students have PE or sports training, they will be expected to change. If extra storage is needed, the Head of House area is available.  Any issues, please see your PC teacher or Head of House.

     

    Updated Mobile Phone and Laptop Policy

    We are very pleased to present an updated phone and laptop policy, which has a focus on making the yard a device-free zone. Designating the yard as a device-free zone will promote physical activity, social interaction, and mental well-being. This policy encourages students to engage in exercise, enjoy fresh air, and take a break from screens to support overall health.

    A summary of the policy is below:

    We are looking forward to a fantastic year filled with learning, achievement, and memorable experiences! Let’s make 2025 a year of excellence and growth.

    Ms Debra Withers
    Director of Students

     

    A Message from the Assistant Director of Students

    Middle School at CBC

    Riley AtkinsonAs we begin a new term, it has been fantastic to see our Middle School students return with enthusiasm, energy, and a positive mindset. A special mention to our new Year 7 students, who have embraced their transition with great resilience and commitment. They are settling in well, forming new friendships, and becoming familiar with the routines and expectations of the campus.

    Throughout the first week, students in Years 8 and 9 have been reminded of the key values that define our Middle School: Respect, Readiness, and Responsibility. These principles guide student behaviour, classroom engagement, and interactions across the school.

    It has been clearly communicated the expectations to students, reinforcing:

    • Respect is mandatory – students must understand that teachers lead the classroom, and a high-functioning learning environment starts with respect.
    • Consistency and commitment – staff are dedicated to providing a structured, predictable, and caring environment for all students.
    • Embracing every opportunity – whether in academics, sport, or personal growth, students are encouraged to make the most of their time at CBC.
    • Following key procedures – lining up correctly, adhering to classroom expectations, and managing device use responsibly to ensure a smooth and productive learning experience.

    A key message shared with students is 'We Rise by Doing Right'. This mantra encourages them to take ownership of their learning, meet expectations, and contribute positively to the school community.

    With a strong foundation set, we look forward to an exciting and successful term ahead!

    Mr Riley Atkinson
    Assistant Director of Students (Middle School and Transition)

    David Salamone-VioliDavid Salamone-Violi

     
    Welcome Back to a New School Year!

    As we embark on another exciting school year, I hope the holidays provided an opportunity for rest, recovery, and time spent with loved ones. While our students enjoyed their well-deserved break, our dedicated staff were hard at work preparing materials and refining programs to ensure the year ahead is one of success and growth. The energy and enthusiasm around the college over the past two weeks have been palpable, with staff diving headfirst into the new year, eager to inspire and guide our students.

     

    Introducing the Head of Learning Team for 2025

    Our Head of Learning Team is here to support both students and families throughout the year. These staff members are your go-to contacts for a range of inquiries, including clarification on elective subjects, organising additional support for your son in specific learning areas, and understanding subject pathways from Middle School to Senior School. Whether it is discussing future goals or addressing immediate concerns, the team is committed to working in partnership with you to help your son succeed.

     
     
     
     
    Ms Alexandra Khafagi

    Director of Performing Arts
     
     
     
     
    Mr George Bryant
    Head of Learning – Humanities
     
     
     
     
    Mr Chris Dolan
    Head of Learning – Art
     
     
     
     
    Ms Wen Ben
    Head of Learning – Languages
     
     
     
    Mr Emmanuel Gaitaneris
    Head of Learning – Design + Technologies
     
     
     
    Mr Ryan Serocki
    Head of Learning – Mathematics
     
     
     
    Mr Michael Spudic
    Head of Learning – Digital Technologies
     
     
     
     
    Mr Michael Spudic
    Head of Learning – Religion
     
     
     
     
    Mr Dylan Widdop
    Head of Learning – English
     
     
     
    Ms Krystle Helps
    Head of Learning – SACE & Flexible Pathways
     
     
     
    Mr Jonty Rutai
    Head of Learning – Health & Physical Education
     
     
     
     
    Ms Themis Zacharoyannis
    Head of Learning – Science

     

    The last first day ever – Class of 2025

    For our Year 12 students, the start of the school year is not just the beginning of their final chapter at the College—it’s an invitation to reflect on the legacy they want to leave behind. With only 32 weeks remaining in their schooling journey, this is their time to make an impact, build lasting memories, and rise to the challenges ahead.

    During his introductory address to our Year 12s, our College Principal, Mr David Johnston, posed an important question to this cohort: How do you want to be remembered? This challenge is not just about academic achievement but also about embodying the values of our school – faith, excellence, community, and compassion. The Year 12 students of 2024 have set a remarkable standard, achieving the highest academic benchmark in the College’s history. Our current senior students now have the opportunity to not only match this success but to bring their own unique contributions to the College’s story.

    In a similar vein, our Head of Senior Campus, Dr Lee Del Col, reminded students of the importance of seizing every moment this year. Whether it is in the classroom, on the sports field, or through service to others, the message was clear: the effort and attitude students bring today will shape their future success.

    We are confident that this Year 12 cohort, with their talent and determination, will make the most of these 32 weeks and leave a lasting impression on the College community.

     

    Subject Change Requests

    For students wishing to adjust their subject choices, the process begins with completing a Subject Request Form available at Student Reception. Depending on the request, students may need to obtain signatures from parents, Heads of Learning, or Heads of House. It is important to note that certain factors, such as timetable clashes or full classes, may prevent some changes from being accommodated. The deadline for submitting subject change requests is Friday 14 February. Students must ensure all required documentation is completed and submitted by this date for consideration.

     

    2025 After-School Study Groups

    We are excited to announce the commencement of our 2025 After-School Study Groups next week (Week 2). These sessions are an excellent opportunity for students to collaborate with peers, develop better time management, and complete their work in a supportive environment.

    Here are the key details:

    • After-School Study Group
      • When: 3:10pm to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
      • Where: Library, Senior Campus
      • Who: Available to all students from Years 7 to 12
      • A supervising teacher will be present.
    • Senior Study Group
      • When: 5:00pm to 8:00pm, Tuesday and Wednesday Nights
      • Where: Level 2, Wakefield Building, Senior Campus
      • Who: Available to Years 10 to 12
      • A supervising teacher will be present, and senior students are welcome to use the kitchen facilities in the Year 12 Study area during this time.

    I strongly encourage all students to take advantage of these study groups to set themselves up for success throughout the year.

    We look forward to seeing our students embrace the challenges and opportunities this year brings.

     

    Mr David Salamone-Violi
    Director of Teaching and Learning

    Anthony CallistoAnthony Callisto

     
    A New Year of Learning, Love and Jubilee

    It has been great to see our students filling the campuses once again. A special welcome to the many new students joining us, particularly those beginning their journey in Reception. For our Year 12 students, this marks their final year with us, and they commenced with the symbolic ringing of the bell, signifying their "last first day" of school.

    This year holds special significance in the global Catholic community as we celebrate the Jubilee Year, a time of renewal and grace. Themed to ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, Pope Francis reminds us, 'The Jubilee is a time when we are called to be converted and to restore the original condition of our hearts.' It is an invitation to reflect and grow in our personal journey in faith and spirituality.

    Our Gospel focus for this year comes from Matthew 22:

    'You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind… You shall love your neighbour as yourself.'

    This 'greatest commandment' calls us to love fully and selflessly, shaping not just our faith but also the way we engage with one another in our school and wider community.

    As we travel through this year, we will keep returning to this key message, which so well reflects our College Values and Touchstones as a school in the tradition of Edmund Rice. We wish all students, families, and staff a blessed and fulfilling year ahead.

    College Captain, Orville Jones rings the School Bell for the start of the school year

     

    Community Masses - Every Wednesday 8am, All Welcome

    You are warmly invited to attend our weekly Community Masses, held every Wednesday at 8:00am in the Edmund Rice Chapel (located Senior Campus). This short service runs until 8:25am and is open to all students, staff, and families across our College - no RSVP needed.

    This year, we are also introducing an additional Mass at 8:00am in the Presentation of Mary Chapel (located on Junior Campus) on the First Friday of every month, with the first one next Friday the 7th of February.

    These services with Fr Matthew Newman are a great opportunity for reflection and spiritual refreshment. Everyone is welcome!

     

    Interested in Altar Serving?

    We are inviting students interested in altar serving, whether experienced or new, to join our team. This is a chance to serve at our College Masses, grow in confidence, and learn more about the Mass alongside current volunteers Dylan C and Jonathan B, as well as Fr Matthew and Brother John. If you're interested, we’d love to hear from you! DM or come and see me.

    Altar_Servers

     

    Prayer for the New School Year

    Prayer is an important part of spiritual development in the Christian tradition. It allows our students to consider their intentions, practice gratitude, and find focus before and at the end of their day. See the words of our College Prayer which we close every day with at CBC.

    College_Prayer

      

    Mr Anthony Callisto
    Director of Identity and Mission

    Alexandra KhafagiAlexandra Khafagi

     
    Welcome back, or welcome, to Arts at CBC! We are looking at an even bigger and better year, and are excited about growth across the board.

    Music

    Our Music Teams commence rehearsals next week, and our studio lessons will also start then. Tutors will be in touch with lesson times, and below are the ensemble timetables. Please note there are some changes to days, and our morning rehearsals now begin at 7:30am.

    CBC has a team-based music program, and we encourage membership in core ensembles as soon as students are comfortable on their instrument. Further challenges can be found in our extension ensembles.

    Junior Campus Rehearsals:

    TEAM

    DAY

    TIME

    JUNIOR GUITAR ENSEMBLE

    Monday

    7:30–8:20am

    B VOCAL (Years 2–3)

    Monday

    Lunchtime

    JC ROCK BAND

    Wednesday

    7:30–8:20am

    FESTIVAL CHOIR (Years 5–6)

    Wednesday

    Lesson 5

    JC CONCERT BAND

    Friday

    7:30–8:20am

     

    Senior Campus Rehearsals:

    TEAM

    DAY

    VENUE

    TIME

    ROCK BAND 3

    Monday

    Music Room

    7:30–8:30am

    ROCK BAND 1

    Monday

    Music Room

    3:20–4:50pm

    VOCAL ENSEMBLE

    Tuesday

    Walsh Theatre

    7:30–8:30am

    PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE

    Tuesday

    Music Room

    7:30–8:30am

    BIG BAND 2

    Tuesday

    Music Room

    3:20–4:50pm

    ROCK BAND 2

    Wednesday

    Music Room

    7:30–8:30am

    CONCERT BAND

    Wednesday

    Music Room

    3:20–4:50pm

    VOCAL PROJECT

    Thursday

    Music Room

    7:30–8:30am

    BIG BAND 1

    Thursday

    Music Room

    3:20–4:50pm

    GUITAR ENSEMBLE

    Friday

    Drama Theatre

    7:30–8:30am

    JAZZ COMBO

    Friday

    Music Room

    7:30–8:30am

    For those students in teams at the Senior Campus, Music Camp will be held in Week 3 at West Beach – if you have not received information, please contact us.

    We welcome a couple of new members to the music team this year:

    • Mr Luka Poulain will be teaching R-6 Classroom Music on the Junior Campus, Year 8 classes, SC guitar tutoring and both the JC Rock Band and Rock Band 3
    • Mr Robin Pratt will be tutoring guitar and taking the SC Guitar Ensemble
    • Mr Jude Thursby increases his role to take on saxophone students and Big Band 1 in addition to the great work he did last year with the Jazz Combo
    • Mr Vincenzo Garreffa (English teacher extraordinaire) will be in charge of Rock Band 2.

     

    Chess

    SC Chess will begin in Week 5 this term with coaching sessions in the Music Room at recess on Wednesdays, and game play on Thursdays after school.

    JC Chess will start in Term 2, and we will be competing later in Terms 2 and 3.

     

    Debating

    SC Debating training will also commence in Week 3 this term, on Tuesday afternoons. As we will be part of the South Australian Debating Association (rather than Debating SA) this year, we have some new skills to learn.

    JC Debating is happening in 2025! Year 6 students will have the opportunity to be part of this exciting adventure from Term 2.

     

    Drama Club

    After the success of our school play last year, Mr Sean Carr will be joined by our new drama (and other things) teacher Mr Jarrod Potito in rehearsing and performing another masterpiece. This will begin in Term 2 on Wednesday afternoons in the Drama Theatre.

    There will be more chances to be involved in Arts as the year progresses, and we look forward to welcoming more students – even just to try and have a go.

    As always, questions can be sent through to me at any time.

     

    Ms Alexandra Khafagi
    Director of Performing Arts