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

 
Child Safeguarding

Christian Brothers College, as a school in the Edmund Rice tradition, is committed to the safety of all students entrusted to our care.  All children and young people who come to Christian Brothers College have a right to feel and be safe. We are committed to providing a child-safe and child-friendly environment where children and young people are safe and feel safe and are able to participate in decisions that affect their lives actively.

We have zero tolerance for child abuse and other harm and are committed to acting in students’ best interests and keeping them safe from harm.

The College regards its child-safeguarding responsibilities with the utmost importance and, as such, is committed to providing the necessary resources to ensure compliance with all relevant child protection laws and regulations and maintaining a child-safe culture.

Each member of the College community has a responsibility to understand the critical and specific role that they play individually and collectively to ensure that the wellbeing and safety of all students is at the forefront of everything they do and every decision they make. 

The College has several Policies and procedures that are accessible on our website, which cover our commitment to Safeguarding practices, the key staff responsible for overseeing them and mechanisms for any member of our community to report any concerns they have regarding child safety:

• Child Safeguarding Policy
• CBC Procedures for Managing Child Safety Incidents or Concerns
• EREA Whistleblower Protection Policy and Guidelines

I also include in complete two important statements with respect to this commitment, the first from our governors, Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) and the second from our Student Code of Conduct, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of all students at CBC:

Student Code of Conduct

At Christian Brothers College, we recognise that effective learning can only occur in a secure environment where the dignity, rights and responsibilities of others are known and respected and where standards and rules are fairly and consistently applied.

This Student Code of Conduct has been developed to clearly set out standards of behaviour that students are expected to abide by.

Managing the Student Code of Conduct is a shared responsibility between students, parents/guardians and the College. All students and families have ready access to support offered by College teachers, Staff and College Child Safeguarding Officers.

Rights and Responsibilities of Students

Students are expected to uphold these principles of Christian Brothers College.

They are:

• Excellence – in your schoolwork, extracurricular, sporting and other personal endeavours
• Respect – for your teachers, parents, peers and members of the community
• Courtesy – for everyone you interact with
• Pride – in yourself, and the way you represent the College
• Personal Responsibility – for your actions
• Integrity – honesty and candour in all of your dealings
• Sensitivity – avoid causing offence or hurt
• Tolerance – for others, regardless of their background, age, gender, sexuality, religion or race
• Inclusion – of all those who decide to come to Christian Brothers College, and of those in the community

These values are to be upheld in the way you conduct yourself not only in the College but also in the community.

Students are expected to observe and uphold this statement of rights and responsibilities:

You have the right to:

• reach your full learning potential in a safe and supportive environment
• be safe
• be treated with respect, courtesy and kindness
• be an active part of, and contribute positively to the community
• be treated fairly and justly
• have your human rights and other legal rights respected.

You have the responsibility to:

• enable others to learn in a safe and supportive environment
• follow the College's policies, procedures and the directions of teachers at all times
• treat others with respect, courtesy and kindness
• represent the College well in the community
• accept and consider the consequences of your actions
• respect the human rights and legal rights of others.

2025 Data Collection Information

Parents will have recently received a SEQTA Direqt message with two critical communications regarding Australian and State Government data collections. Please see below this information regarding:

• The Australian Government, Department of Education – 2025 Privacy Collection Notice for Parent Address Collection
• The State Government, Department for Education – 2025 NAPLAN Privacy Collection notice

Mr Cameron Alexander
Executive Deputy Principal

 
What our Year 12 data says about culture

Last Friday, the College held its annual Dux Celebration to recognise the SACE performance of our most recent Year 12s. By far, the event has become one of my favourites on the College calendar. While seeing the recent graduates wearing their graduation ties and boasting freshly trimmed beards are always a sight for sore eyes, the cultural meaning standing behind this event is most important. Before we recognised individual achievements, we reviewed the collective achievements of the 2024 cohort. And while this article is about data and accomplishment, I would argue that it is as much about culture.

To explain, let's first look at the historical data. The table below reflects CBC’s Year 12 A and B percentages from 2019 to 2023. We begin in 2019, the year our 2024 graduates started at CBC as Year 7s, and end in 2023, as this was the year they stood on the precipice of beginning Year 12.

Now, I am by no means a numbers man. However, we can see above that, incrementally, for the last five years, CBC has continued to improve. To be clear, our boys are not getting more intelligent. I have been at CBC for over 10 years, and what I can tell you is that the potential and capability of one cohort to the next varies very little. Yet, our data reflects continual growth. It could imply the cohorts are getting smarter. Why? Well, not only does the overall A/B% nudge forward, but we also see a constant increase in the A band.

So, how did our 2024 Year 12 cohort go? They continued the trend.

Before returning to this notion of culture, it is crucial to tease out the 2024 numbers above a little more. When you have 60.90% of grades in the A band, you have a resounding message about belief. More impressive is when we break down the historical numbers in the A band alone.

Over a third – 37.2% to be precise – of all CBC grades were either an A+ or A in 2024. The flow-on effect of these achievements manifests itself in other areas. Last year, the boys achieved 38 merits across 11 subjects (an improvement on 22 in 2023, which was our most ever). While merits are an outstanding recognition, the fact the boys nearly doubled the percentage in A+s speaks volumes. Additionally, high grades generally reflect high ATARs. 42.8% of our Year 12 cohort achieved an ATAR ranking of 90 or above. In other words, 42.8% of our students were ranked in the top 10% of Australia’s Year 12s. When we look comparatively, the 2024 data is equally impressive. Below is a bar graph representing how CBC stands in relation to the rest of the state by means of grade distribution.

In my view, what all the data above shows is culture. For the five years leading up to Year 12, our 2024 graduates bore witness to growth. They harnessed support mechanisms, accepted advice and counselling, applied themselves to study groups and refused to accept a standard of anything lower than their best.

Equally, and consequently, their teachers, Heads of Learning and Houses, and tutors were able to work with students who collectively sought to nudge things forward a little more. Turn that B+ into an A- or see if that A can become an A+. To be clear, this is not just about belief. These results reflect a lot of hard work and require a mastery of skills, concepts and capabilities, which are underpinned by excellent teachers committed to getting the best out of our boys. And while the support ecosystem behind our Year 12s is undoubtedly comprehensive (and arguably effective based on the data), it hinges on the boys coming to the table. And as they continue to do so, we have seen them achieve what, five years ago, they might have thought was only possible for a select few.

To close, though, some quick acknowledgements. Congratulations to Abir for becoming the dux of an impressive cohort and Andrew for achieving Proxime Accessit. Both young men have interesting stories that add to the story of CBC. Abir is meant to be in Year 12 this year; his acceleration and promotion reflect how well we know our boys and commit to catering for their needs. Andrew has been with us since reception; he harnessed the platform provided. I also must congratulate Mr David Salamone (Director of Teaching and Learning), who worked tirelessly with Heads of House, Heads of Learning, teachers and tutors to aid our boys in achieving their goals.

Finally, a closing note on culture. At the end of the Dux assembly, I passed a group of 2025 Year 12s. They were not overwhelmed or worried about the 2024 cohort's achievements and data. Instead, they asked when the Senior Study Groups started and who was staffing them. They enquired about the process of booking tutors. They have work to do, and they have begun. And therein lies the culture resting behind the data.

Dr Lee Del Col
Deputy Principal – Head of Senior Campus

Loving God,

On this Valentine’s Day, the day of love, we thank You for the gift of relationships – family, friends, and community – that bring joy, support, and kindness into our lives. May we always reflect Your unconditional love in the way we treat others, offering compassion, patience, and understanding.

Help us to see love not only in grand gestures but in the simple, everyday moments – a kind word, a helping hand, a listening ear. May our hearts be open to giving and receiving love, just as You love us completely and without measure.

May the love we celebrate today be a reflection of Your divine love, which knows no bounds and lasts forever.

We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Amen.

 
Thank you to all the families who attended our Meet the Teacher evening. We truly appreciate your time and engagement. If you were unable to attend – especially given the heat – please feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher for any important information shared during the session. We’re always happy to connect with you!

Exciting Year 6 Trip to Canberra!

On Sunday 16 February, 56 enthusiastic Year 6 students, along with seven dedicated staff members, will embark on an unforgettable week in Canberra, exploring our nation's capital. This trip is an incredible opportunity for hands-on learning, discovery, and adventure, and we are all looking forward to the experiences that await them.

We can’t wait to hear all about their journey upon their return! Be sure to follow our social media platforms for daily updates and plenty of photos capturing their adventures.

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful staff members who have generously given their time to accompany the students on this trip: Mrs Sandra Buchanan, Mr Dylan Cook, Ms Kameron Bazzo, Mrs Kathryn Brink, Mrs Karen Chambers, Mr David Johnston, and myself. Your dedication and support are truly appreciated.

Wishing our students and staff a fantastic and enriching week ahead!

Surviving the Heat: Staying Cool and Safe in Hot Weather

As we continue to experience extreme temperatures, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to stay cool, hydrated, and safe. The recent heatwave has reminded us of just how challenging the summer months can be, and at school, we are prioritising student well-being by implementing measures to keep everyone comfortable and protected.

Keeping Cool at School

To ensure the safety of our students, we have a strict policy of staying indoors when temperatures exceed 35°C. During these extreme heat days, students will remain in air-conditioned classrooms and other cool spaces to prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Essential Tips for Staying Hydrated and Protected

Here are some simple ways to help beat the heat during hot weather while at school:

Freeze Water Bottles: Encourage students to freeze their water bottles overnight. This helps keep their drink cold for longer and provides a refreshing way to cool down throughout the day.

Bring a Hat: A hat is an essential part of sun safety. Students must wear their hats whenever they are outside, as this provides protection from direct sun exposure and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Stay Hydrated: It’s important for students to bring a refillable water bottle every day and take advantage of refilling stations throughout the school. Drinking water regularly is the best way to stay hydrated and prevent heat-related fatigue.

It’s important to watch for signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating, and take action if needed.

By working together and taking these simple precautions, we can ensure that everyone stays safe, comfortable, and ready to learn – despite the soaring temperatures. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and take care!

Staff Spotlight Ms Kameron Bazzo
– new staff member in Year 6 White

What do you enjoy most about teaching your current year level or subject? Year 6 is such a rewarding year! It offers the chance to build solid and fun relationships with the boys, which form the foundation of an engaging classroom environment. I love watching their independence and confidence grow, both academically and socially and I truly enjoy guiding them through this pivotal final year of Primary School, helping them develop the skills and values they’ll carry forward into the next chapter of their education.

What is one lesson or skill you hope every student takes away from your class? Integrity is my biggest focus in Year 6. I hope the boys leave my classroom as honest, resilient, and respectful young men who are ready to thrive in High School. Additionally, our classroom motto is ‘Work Hard, Play Harder’ which encourages the boys to be good people who always have fun whilst doing so!

What do you enjoy doing outside of teaching? Travelling is probably my biggest hobby and I love using my school holidays to explore new places. In the summer holidays, I ticked off my #1 bucket list item: experiencing a White Christmas in New York City, and it certainly didn’t disappoint.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Italy – just so I could eat pasta for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

What are you most looking forward to this school year? Canberra for sure – I have never been to Canberra, so I am excited to explore the nation’s capital with my 20 little besties!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about teaching? The best piece of advice I’ve received is to not sweat the small stuff – lessons won’t always go perfectly, and challenges will come up, but if students feel valued, supported, and engaged, real learning always happens. It’s taught me to be adaptable, embrace the unexpected, and remember that the impact you have goes far beyond just academics.

Exciting News: Alphabet Day is Coming!

Mark your calendars! On Thursday 2 May, we will be celebrating Alphabet Day, a fun and creative event where students are encouraged to dress up as something that starts with one of their initials. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to use their imagination and showcase their creativity while embracing the spirit of the day.

For those new to our community, last year we celebrated Harry Potter Day, transforming the Junior Campus into Hogwarts for a truly magical experience. This year, we are looking forward to seeing the unique and inventive costumes our students come up with for Alphabet Day!

Start brainstorming now – whether it’s a pirate (for Peter), astronaut (for Alex), doctor (for Daniel), or something completely out of the box, we can't wait to see the incredible ideas come to life.

Stay tuned for more details as the day approaches!

The Importance of Wearing the Uniform Correctly

At our school, the uniform is more than just clothing – it is a symbol of pride, respect, and belonging. Wearing the correct uniform each day, down to the appropriate socks, reflects a student’s commitment to our values and sets the tone for a positive learning environment.

Uniform Expectations

It is essential that students wear the correct uniform each day, not just their PE uniform. This includes:
Formal school uniform on designated days, with the appropriate shirt, pants, and black leather school shoes.

Correct socks to maintain a neat and professional appearance.
PE uniform only on designated sports days.

By wearing the uniform with pride and ensuring that all aspects—including socks—are correct, students contribute to the school’s strong sense of identity and discipline. Let’s work together to uphold these standards and encourage students to take ownership of their presentation each day!

Uniform Spot Checks

To maintain the high standards of our school community, uniform spot checks will be conducted regularly to ensure that students are wearing the correct uniform each day – including appropriate socks, shoes, and attire.

How It Will Work

• ✔️ First Reminder (Saving Grace): If a student is found not wearing the correct uniform, they will receive a reminder and an opportunity to correct it.
• ✔️ Second Offense (Community Service): If the issue persists, the student will be required to complete a community service task as a consequence.

Please see below the opening hours for the College Uniform Shop. If you need to purchase any items, you can also purchase items via the QKR! App and they will be sent to the JC for collection.

Normal Trading Hours

These hours apply during School Terms.  Special holiday trading hours (if applicable) are indicated below.

• Monday: 8am to 4pm
• Wednesday: 8am to 1pm
• Friday: 12noon to 4pm

NAPLAN

At Christian Brothers College we are dedicated to preparing your child for these assessments and using them as one of many tools to understand and support each student's learning journey. Recognising that while NAPLAN is an important assessment, it will be just one of the various resources we use to evaluate your child's progress.

This year, all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 will be completing the NAPLAN Practice tests on Tuesday 25 February.  This is an opportunity for students to familiarise themselves with the format of the assessments and for us to ensure that they feel comfortable and confident in taking the tests.

We understand that assessments can be a source of anxiety for some students, and we are here to support your child through this period. If you have any questions or concerns about the NAPLAN assessments or if you would like to discuss your child's participation and support, please feel free to contact us.

If you have any questions, please reach out to the relevant contact person for each campus.

Junior Campus

Mrs Alison Ronoastro - aronoastro@cbc.sa.edu.au
Ms Lauren Mercer -  lmercer@cbc.sa.edu.au
Tel: 08 8400 4222

Senior Campus

Mr David Salamone-Violi - dsalamone-violi@cbc.sa.edu.au
Tel: 08 8400 4200

Join Us for Coffee Every Friday Morning!

We warmly invite you to join us every Friday morning from 8:20am at the canteen for a coffee and a chance to connect with other parents. It’s a wonderful opportunity to catch up, meet new families, and start the day with a friendly chat.

We’d love to see you there – come along and enjoy a coffee on us!

• When: Every Friday morning, 8:20am
• Where: School Canteen

Looking forward to sharing a coffee and conversation with you!

SEQTA

A friendly reminder that SEQTA is our primary communication platform for sharing important school updates, announcements, and messages. To ensure you don’t miss any key information, we kindly ask that you regularly check your messages or set your phone to receive SEQTA notifications.

By staying up to date on SEQTA, you’ll have access to:

• Important school announcements
• Event reminders and calendar updates
• Direct communication from teachers and staff
• Academic progress and student reports

We appreciate your support in helping us maintain clear and effective communication. If you need any assistance with SEQTA notifications, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Yearbooks

All the students received a copy of the Yearbook earlier this week.  Can I please ask that if you have any issues with your copy, please return it to the Junior Campus front office?

Calling for Volunteers – Join Our Junior Campus Community!

We are looking for volunteers to support various school activities and would love for you to get involved! Your time and effort make a huge difference in enriching our school community and providing valuable experiences for our students.

If you are interested in volunteering, please visit our College website for more information and to complete the WHS Induction:

 
Thank you for your support – we truly appreciate it! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Noel's Impressive Start in Cadet 12 Racing!

Year 5 student Noel ended 2024 on a high, being crowned the Southern Karting Club Cadet 9 Champion – a fantastic achievement!

Stepping up to the Cadet 12 category for the first time last weekend, Noel took on the challenge at Bolivar Racetrack. Despite a shaky start with a spin-out during practice, he showed incredible resilience and determination. Battling through sweltering conditions, he delivered solid performances in all four races, ultimately securing an impressive 5th-place finish.

Well done, Noel! We can't wait to see what’s next in your racing journey!

Upcoming Calendar events

• 16-21 February – Year 6 Canberra Trip
• 28 February - JC Leadership Assembly
• 4 March – Shrove Tuesday
• 5 March – Ash Wednesday
• 7 March – Community Mass at the JC
• 10 March – Adelaide Cup Public Holiday

     
Mrs Alison Ronoastro
Head of Junior Campus

 
Celebrating the Success of Our 2024 Graduates

Last week, our College Community had the privilege of welcoming back students and families from the Class of 2024 to celebrate their incredible achievements. It was a special occasion, not just because of the outstanding academic results we recognised but because of the warmth, pride, and shared joy that filled the campus.

As part of the celebration, we acknowledged the exceptional efforts of 39 students who achieved an ATAR above 90, a testament to their commitment and perseverance. We also celebrated the remarkable 34 A+ merit grades achieved across Year 11 and Year 12 students, reflecting the depth of academic excellence within our college. These accomplishments are the result of years of dedication, resilience, and a shared commitment to learning.

One of the most inspiring moments of the event came from our College Dux, Abir Sindhu, who spoke about his journey and the reality behind such achievements. He reminded us that success is never achieved in isolation—it is only possible with the unwavering support of teachers, friends, and family who guide, encourage, and uplifted him along the way. His words reinforced a powerful truth: behind every high mark is a network of people who believe in and support each student's journey.

While this celebration was, at its core, a recognition of academic success, what stood out most was not just the numbers and accolades but the deep sense of pride, love, and care that radiated from the students and their families. It was a day that beautifully captured what education should be about – not just striving for high grades but the profound fulfilment that comes from hard work, dedication, and the recognition of a journey well-travelled.

As we move forward into 2025, I hope that students aspire to achieve the excellence we celebrated—not just for the academic merit but for the pride they will feel in themselves and the pride that others will have in them. True success is measured not only in results but in the personal growth, resilience, and sense of accomplishment that comes from giving your absolute best.

What can you do to help students achieve their best?

The achievements of our 2024 graduates serve as an inspiration for every student in our college. Their success was not a result of last-minute effort in Year 12 but rather the accumulation of years of consistent habits, strategic learning, and perseverance. While academic excellence is celebrated at the end of the journey, it is built from the very first day a student walks into a classroom. For students in Years 7-11, now is the time to establish the foundations that will lead to their own success in the years ahead. Achieving outstanding results is not about being naturally gifted but about using the right strategies, managing distractions, and maintaining balance.

1. Adopt High-Impact Study Strategies

Not all study methods are equally effective, and research has shown that some of the most used techniques—such as passive reading and highlighting—are among the least effective ways to retain information. Instead, students should focus on active learning techniques that significantly enhance understanding and memory retention.

• Retrieval Practice: Testing yourself on material rather than simply rereading notes has been shown to improve long-term retention. One study by Dunlosky et al. (2013) found that self-quizzing was far more effective than rereading or highlighting.
• Spaced Repetition: Instead of cramming the night before a test, students should review material regularly over time, strengthening memory recall.
• Elaborative Interrogation: Asking "why" questions about content forces deeper understanding, making it easier to remember.

2. Limit Digital Distractions

In today's digital age, managing the allure of smartphones, social media, and other digital platforms is crucial for maintaining academic focus. Recent studies have highlighted the negative impact of digital distractions on student performance.

A 2023 analysis by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that students who reported being distracted by peers using digital devices during math lessons scored, on average, 15 points lower in mathematics compared to those who reported minimal or no such distractions.

To mitigate these distractions and enhance learning efficiency, students can:

• Create a Focused Study Environment: Designate specific areas for study that are free from digital interruptions.
• Manage Notifications: Disable non-essential notifications during study sessions to minimise interruptions.
• Set Specific Goals: Define clear objectives for each study session to maintain direction and purpose.

If you would like to read any of the research mentioned in this article, here are the details:

• Dunlosky, J., Rawson, K. A., Marsh, E. J., Nathan, M. J., & Willingham, D. T. (2013). Improving Students’ Learning With Effective Learning Techniques: Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology.
• https://www.edweek.org/leadership/digital-distractions-in-class-linked-to-lower-academic-performance/2023/12?utm_source=chatgpt.com

VET Commencement

Whilst the official commencement of the academic school year took place in Week 1 of this year, our students undertaking external Vocational Education & Training (VET) were able to officially begin in Week 2. These VET courses offer our students valuable opportunities and experiences beyond the traditional classroom setting. These courses enable students to earn a nationally recognised VET qualification whilst at the same time completing their South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

By combining secondary education with vocational education and training, our students have the opportunity to develop workplace-specific skills designed to meet current and future employment demands. By keeping their options open, our students can pursue vocational and higher education pathways.

At Christian Brothers College, students can choose from a wide variety of VET pathway options through a wide range of VET program choices, with examples including:

• Automotive
• Business – delivered on campus by Christian Brothers College teaching staff, in partnership with Foundation Education
• Construction
• Cookery
• Electrotechnology
• Fitness
• Hospitality
• Information Technology
• Plumbing
• Retail
• Salon Assistant (Barbery and Hairdressing)
• Screen & Media
• Sport Coaching – delivered on campus by Christian Brothers College teaching staff, in partnership with the Australian College of Sport

During our recent DUX assembly, we recognised the outstanding results achieved by the graduating class of 2024. It is noteworthy that 89% of our graduating cohort incorporated VET courses into their academic journey, positively contributing to their overall ATAR results. This emphasises the significance of VET not only in enhancing ATAR aspirations but, more importantly, in opening diverse career pathways and valuable real-world experiences post-graduation.

If you would like more details about VET at Christian Brothers College, including costs, courses or SACE credits please contact Tia Milohis, Careers Counsellor - tmilohis@cbc.sa.edu.au

Mr David Salamone-Violi
Director of Teaching and Learning

 
Uniform Matters

I read recently an article discussing the purpose of and legalities around a school’s Uniform Policy. In it, the reasons behind school uniform policies were explored. These reasons included:

• ‘bind(ing) the community together, giving common and coherent purpose,’
• ‘Minimis(ing) social-economic difference and the financial burden of free dress, [include] sun safe practices and generally promote equality.’
• ‘preparing students for the expectations of potential future workplaces’

Interestingly, the article also clarified the differences between uniform policies at public schools versus private schools in regard to the enforceability of disciplinary consequences. In short ‘Generally private schools can set their own rules and can discipline students for not following them  – as long as the rules are not unreasonable or harmful to students. ‘This is because when you enrol at a private school … you enter into a contract with the school to follow its polices.’

Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-10/can-you-successfully-challenge-a-school-uniform-policy/104794956

This segues nicely into the emerging uniform issues this year and the importance of revisiting the CBC Uniform Policy.

In particular, students were reminded via Direqt Message and through the notices, the following:

• Students are to be clean-shaven (no 'goatees' or moustaches) – the only exemptions are medical (current for this year) or Religious (note from religious leader/parent)
• CBC school bags are to be used (no Nike/soccer backpacks)
• No earrings – but clear stud spacers can be worn
• Black leather shoes and CBC socks

If students are facing difficulties in securing a school uniform, we also have a number of second-hand items that can be used by students. The Head of House or PC Teacher should be contacted to organise this.

Events

Meet the PC Teacher Evening

Despite the heat, last Monday around 200 parents attended the informal ‘Meet the PC Teacher Evening’. This evening was designed to be a social event, to put ‘faces to names’ to enhance the personalised pastoral care program delivered by the amazing PC Teachers at CBC. The buzz in the conference centre was great to witness and we hope this event continues to grow to enable the development of the three-way partnership of student-parent-teacher, which works together to best support students along the journey of their education at CBC.

A copy of the Information Sheet distributed on the evening is available below:

Finally,  the Dux Assembly and Missioning Mass (modified due to the heat) were other examples of the College working with families to strengthen the pastoral, academic and spiritual development of all our students at CBC. We firmly believe that by grounding our students with a sense of discipline and moral principles, we empower them to navigate life’s challenges with courage, empathy and humility.

The Pastoral care team would like to congratulate our 2025 leaders who received their 'White Coats' at the Missioning Mass:

Ms Debra Withers
Director of Students

 
Missioning and Commissioning

We celebrated a special Missioning Mass with the Year 12 cohort, marking an important moment as we commissioned the 2025 Prefect Team. In this intimate gathering surrounded by their peers and families, our newly appointed leaders pledged to uphold the College values and serve with integrity, love, and compassion.

While this Mass was a smaller gathering due to necessary adjustments in response to the extreme heat, we look forward to coming together as a whole College community for an R-12 Mass later this term.

Please join us in wishing our Year 12s all the best this year and congratulating Orville and the 2025 Student Leadership Team!

Commissioning the Prefects at the Missioning Mass

Australia Reflects on a Historic Apology

February 13 marks the anniversary of the National Apology, delivered by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in 2008. Both he and Opposition Leader Dr Brendan Nelson acknowledged the suffering of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as a result of past government policies, particularly the forced removal of children from their families.

A signed photo of this moment exists in three locations:

• Kevin Rudd's office in Washington
• Dr Brendan Nelson's office in London
• Mr Sean Carr's office at CBC (currently on display in the SC Front Office)

A Signed Photo of the National Apology in the Front Office

Saying sorry was an important step, but there is still more to do on our Nation's path to healing and reconciliation.

Saint Vincent De Paul Society

Junior and Senior students are called to register to be a part of the Mini Vinnies (Junior Campus) or the St Vincent De Paul Group (Senior Campus). Some exciting opportunities await for 2025 and we have received outstanding numbers in support already.

Year 10 Service Learning with Fred's Van

Living in the Edmund Rice Tradition

As part of Mr Carr’s Religious Education class, a panel of staff – Mr Schoenmakers, Mr Atkinson, Mr Alexander, Mr Callisto, and Br Ahern – shared their experiences as students in Edmund Rice schools across different locations. Their stories highlighted the shared values and Touchstones of an Edmund Rice Education Australia education and the lasting impact of this tradition.

Year 7s with staff discussing their experience as students at an EREA School

Interested in Altar Serving?

We have had a great response so far from students of our Junior and Senior campuses and look forward to announcing training for our new young leaders soon!

If you would like to be part of our building altar serving crew – whether you're experienced or brand new – this is a great opportunity to learn, grow in confidence and serve at our College Masses. You’ll be supported by experienced volunteers Dylan C and Jonathan B, along with Fr Matthew and Brother John.

If you're interested, let us know. You can send a message or come and see one of us.

Community Masses – Every Wednesday at 8am

A reminder that you can join us for our weekly Community Mass every Wednesday at 8:00am in the Edmund Rice Chapel (Senior Campus). This short service finishes by 8:25 AM and is open to all students, staff, and families - no RSVP needed.

We had a wonderful service for our first, First Friday Mass in the in the Presentation of Mary Chapel (Junior Campus) last week. The next one is on Friday 7 March.

Mr Anthony Callisto
Director of Identity and Mission

 
Coming to you live from Music Camp at West Beach, we have survived and thrived on a super hot day. We have built a stronger community, rehearsed in our teams, eaten as many Zooper Doopers as we could, and confirmed that 2025 will be an exceptional year for CBC Music.

Music 

Our first week of early morning rehearsals was fantastic – working for the extra time whilst our brains are fresh has already made a huge difference. A reminder that on the Junior Campus, our rehearsals look like this:

Please note that, to be in an instrumental group (Guitars, Rock Band, Concert Band) you need to be having lessons, however everyone is welcome to join our Choirs.

Music Camp

As already mentioned, at the time of writing, we have just bid our campers good night. On arrival today we headed straight to the beach to start cool. We paddled up to our knees before our music captains led us through a game of Red Rover, and we then held a sandcastle-building competition.

The afternoon and evening saw rehearsals begin – due to the heat, Vocal Project had a fluid training session on the giant pillow, in the pool, and in the Bunkhouse Courtyard.

It has become traditional on a CBC Music Camp to form teams, which compete in various activities throughout the trip. We have eight teams this year, with each consisting of students from Years 7–11/12. Each team needs a name, designs a poster and battles in trivia, the tick-tac-toe relay and a songwriting challenge to determine which team will be victorious. Tonight’s trivia resulted in a tie between Teams 1 (led by Nikolas Fountas) and 4 (led by Will Axon). Tomorrow evening we will welcome Mr Johnston and Dr Del Col to judge our song competition.

We will return to CBC on Friday stronger and more musical!

Winter Co-curricular

We are looking forward to a stellar winter season in Chess and Debating, and the formal commencement of our Drama Club.

A reminder that SC Chess will begin in Week 5 with coaching sessions on Wednesday at lunchtimes in the music room as well as game practice on Thursday afternoons in W206.

And another reminder that SC Debating will also kick off in Week 5, with sessions on Tuesday afternoons in W206.

JC Chess and Debating, along with SC Drama Club, will commence in Term 2.

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

Ms Alexandra Khafagi
Director of Performing Arts

INSIDE CBC Issue 4 Now Available!

Click to Read Now

 
Last week, a Co-curricular Sport letter was distributed to all families via SEQTA (included below); this letter included key information on the following:

• Key Staff and Contacts
• Communication
• Fixtures
• Co-curricular Policy and Personal Responsibility Plan
• Code of Conduct
• Weather Policy
• Concussions
• Student Participation
• Parent Support

Please ensure you access and read this letter, as it should alleviate some uncertainties and answer some questions that you may have.

Summer Co-curricular

Summer Co-curricular Sport is now underway, with 40 teams and over 400 students involved across Term 1. It has been fantastic to see the boys out at trainings and matches representing the college with pride.

Students who have committed to a summer sport are reminded that they are expected to uphold the commitment, ensuring we have enough players each week to put our best foot forward. Additionally, should you/your son be unavailable, please communicate to the supervising staff member of a member of the co-curricular team, so that we can plan and make the necessary arrangements. Your support is greatly appreciated.

If your son is not currently signed up to participate in Summer Co-curriculars but wishes to do so, please contact the relevant personnel below:

Co-curricular Sport – Mr D’Arcy Rabbitt

Music – Ms Alex Khafagi

Winter Co-curricular (Term 2 & 3)

Amidst the busyness of summer co-curricular sports, we have already begun to plan and organise winter co-curricular sports and activities.

Senior Campus

On Wednesday, students at the Senior Campus were sent a link to complete the Winter Selections form, if they have not done so already, we ask that they complete this as soon as possible. The data from this form is used to nominate teams for competitions, as well as set up distribution lists, organise teams internally and track co-curricular participation. Therefore, it is integral that the form is completed, particularly for those wanting to participate in a co-curricular sport or activity in Terms 2 and 3, 2025.

Students can access the form via the message sent out on SEQTA. If you have any questions or issues, please let Mr D’Arcy Rabbitt and me know.

Junior Campus

Junior Campus families should have selected winter co-curricular sports and activities at the end of last year, if you did not complete the form at that time and your son wishes to participate in an activity, please ensure you get in contact so that he is able to participate. 

Mr Adon Cousins
Head of Co-Curricular

Open A Badminton

Pembroke School 396pts defeated CBC 285pts

Kicking off the first match of the season, started off a bit rocky for the boys as this was their first match of the year, despite having to forfeit two matches, the boys fought very well, Michael and Levi leading the way with straight wins in both singles and doubles, whilst the other boys put up an incredible fight against Pembroke High. all of which show incredible potential on the court and are always seeking improvement; as a coach, I believe all players will grow exponentially in due time. looking forward to training, coaching and guiding these boys into better players!!  All in all a super solid start to the season despite starting off with a loss.

Best Player: Michael C

Mr Hao Nguyen
Coach

Middle A Badminton

Pembroke School 8 games defeated CBC 5 games

In the first match of the Term 1 season, CBC ventured to Magill to play Pembroke. CBC had a very inexperienced team, with all boys playing their first game in the A-grade competition. Unfortunately, CBC were unable to win, but they performed admirably, with some very encouraging performances. The doubles were played first, and after 4 games, the scores were tied 2-all, with CBC having a slender one-set lead.

Congratulations to Sebastian and Wil and Jo and Arin for winning their games in straight sets. Special mention to Liam and Annicet, who won the first set in their game but unfortunately lost the next two sets. The singles were played next and unfortunately, CBC were comfortably beaten 6 games to 3. Once again, Sebastian played exceptionally well, winning his game in straight sets. Wil also played very well to draw his game 1 all. Even though CBC were defeated, there were promising signs from our players and if we are prepared to work hard at training, our results should improve. Congratulations to all players, for the manner in which you competed and represented CBC.

Best Players: Sebastian D, Will K, Jo V, Annicet A

Mr Peter Tippins
Coach

Year 7/8 Cricket

Mercedes College 3/156 defeated CBC 7/50

The Year 7/8s, in their first game together as a team, came up against a talented Mercedes line-up.  After winning the toss and deciding to bowl we struggled to find an early wicket before a direct hit run out by Harrison Lee and a wicket to our Captain for the game, Sam Knuplez, saw CBC reign back in the run-rate.  Chasing 156 was always a big task, and after an early wicket, Alex Loechel and Noah Ho put together a solid partnership that frustrated the opposition.  Unfortunately, as the run rate rose, we were unable to keep up, and steady wickets fell. 

Best Players: Alex L, Noah H

Mr Cameron Alexander, Mr Jackson R and Mr Will H
Coaches

Drive A Tennis

Marryatville High School 7 defeated CBC 2

Players demonstrated positive demeanour and mindsets but struggled to bring their application to full potential. The higher-ranked opponents seemed well out of our league, whilst the middle and lower opponents ranked more closely. Some great play from Jake and Oliver who were able to secure wins in their singles.

Best Player: Oliver W

Mr Nick Corso
Coach

Drive B Tennis

Marryatville High School 8 defeated CBC 1

Although skill levels seemed relatively well-matched apart from the first ranked, many of our players struggled to pull their mental games together, allowing their play to suffer. However, there were some moments of persistence. John Downes and Oscar Bellafemine did well in winning their doubles match.

Best Player: Jon L

Mr Jaycob Navarro
Coach

Senior B Tennis

CBC 9 defeated Nazareth College Nil

It was an early morning for the boys heading west to Nazareth. The boys played extremely well, providing a clean sweep of all plates, Josh, Aidan H, Geon Sanam and Aidan C winning all their matches. Much credit to the boys for their hard work that was displayed on the court today!

Best Players: Josh, Aidan H, Geon, Sze-Yong, Sonam, Aidan C

Mr Sam Cullum
Coach

Middle A Tennis

Marryatville High School 8 defeated CBC Nil

Sadly, we had boys not available or injured, so we only had four boys for a six-boy Middle A team.

Marryatville High is a tennis-focus school, so they had large numbers of students to field strong, experienced players. I was impressed with Owen, Tristan, Ben and Hanson – all from my Middle A team last year – who kept a positive mind set against a very strong and experienced opposition.

Owen kindly played 2 singles and had an impressive 4-6 singles result against a powerful, tactical player.

Best Player: Owen

Ms Libby Sims
Coach

Middle B Tennis

Marryatville High School 7 defeated CBC 2

Unfortunately, we had Middle boys injured or not available for our first match for the term against Marryatville High; a tennis-focus school. We had five players for a six-boy team. Marryatville had 10 players, so they kindly offered a boy to play the 2nd double with Aiden to record our only win in the doubles 6-4. Jacob, Mitchell and Aiden are Year 7 boys who kindly filled in with short notice and I was impressed with their determination and excellent sportsmanship with tough opposition.

James and Pranav (Year 8s) tried very hard with stronger and more experienced opposition.

Aiden (Year 7) demonstrated steady, tactical singles tennis to record our only singles win. Well done.

Best Players: Jacob, Mitchell, Aiden

Ms Libby Sims
Coach

Year 7B Purple Tennis

CBC 9 defeated Pedare Christian College Nil

It was quite a late start on the rooftop courts as Pedare students arrived 30 minutes after start time and with only four players instead of six.  Our six boys were very patient with some playing both doubles and singles against Pedare and some internal matches. I was impressed with the determination and focus of the entire team as it was the first tennis match for all six boys for CBC. It was an excellent start to Term 1 of Year 7 Purple Tennis, with Pedare taking just 1 game for the entire afternoon.

Well done boys.

Best Players: Adam, Andy, Thomas, Aiden, Mitchell, Christian

Ms Claire Visser
Coach

Year 7B White Tennis

St Paul’s College 6 defeated CBC 3

On Friday 7 February, our Year 7 White Tennis boys came up against a very strong St Paul's team. Unfortunately, we were a player short on the day due to illness, meaning we forfeited 2 sets (one singles and one doubles match). Our boys gave their best, with Sulayman Ahmed and Krish Nalavadi winning their doubles match.  We lost the other doubles match. In terms of the singles matches, we played 5, won 2 and lost 3. A good day out was had by all.

Best Player: Nicholas C

Mr Deon Visser
Coach

Open A Volleyball

Glenunga International High School 2 defeated CBC 1

It was a good first start for the season; the boys showed some incredible gameplay and made some minor mistakes due to having been playing over the break. Ultimately, it is a loss for the Open As, with some fault on serving, rotations, and positions, other than that, their spikes and defence have improved or at least stayed consistent, despite the new team forming.

Best Player: Billy

Mr Steve Tong
Coach

Open B Volleyball

CBC 2 defeated Glenunga International High School 1

Glenunga started strong with extra players able to rotate throughout the set enabling recovery under hot conditions.  They won in a close set 25 points to 21. Undeterred and citing the mantra 'believe' (thanks to Mr Johnston!), the boys hung in there and were rewarded with a 25 to 23-second set win. It was now all to play for! The third set began poorly with a few unforced errors. However, with an underdog spirit, the team did not give up. James Venditti with some magnificent serving, brought the win home, demonstrating the power of belief! Well done, boys!  Bring on next week!

Best Player: James V

Ms Debra Withers
Coach

Senior C Water Polo

St Peter’s College 11 defeated CBC 4

It was a solid start to the season for the boys.  Saints were the much better team on the night but the boys fought hard to stay in the match. The third quarter was the main difference. The floodgates opened for the Saints, and we found it hard to stop their run.  Jacob Seaman, Nick Chant and Ilias Malatos were consistent throughout, and Matias Guider was again very good in the goals.  Casey proved he will be very useful in the Senior team this year. There is plenty for our team to work on boys!

Best Player: Jacob S

Mr Sean Carr
Coach