From the Director of Students
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.’
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:
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Ms Debra Withers
Director of Students
A Message from the Assistant Director of Students
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
Please see below important updates about upcoming events, student expectations, and key programs for our Middle School students.
Year 7 Camp – Mylor Adventure Camp
(3–5 March, 2025)
We are thrilled to announce that the Year 7 Camp will take place at Mylor Adventure Park in the Adelaide Hills from Monday, March 3rd to Wednesday, March 5th, 2025. This camp is an essential part of the Year 7 curriculum, designed to help students develop friendships, build resilience, and foster independence through a range of individual and team-building activities.
Key Details:
- Departure: Monday, 3 March at 8:30am from CBC’s Western Courtyard (please ensure your son is packed and arrives on time).
- Return: Wednesday, 5 March at 3:10pm (students can be collected from the Wakefield St gates).
- Transport: Students will travel by coach.
- Consent Forms: Must be completed by Monday, 17 February through Operoo (CBC Consent Form) and Broadcast (Mylor Adventure Park Consent Form).
- Expectations: No phones or electronic devices are allowed on camp to encourage meaningful engagement. Students must always uphold CBC’s behaviour standards.
Year 9 Rite Journey – The Calling Ceremony
(26 February 2025)
The Rite Journey Program is a significant initiative for our Year 9 students, designed to support their transition into adulthood. This year-long program integrates Health and Personal Development with Religious and Values Education, allowing students to explore key questions about identity, relationships, and purpose.
The first major milestone, 'The Calling' Ceremony, will be held at Montefiore Hill, North Adelaide, on Wednesday 26 February at 6:30pm. This special event requires parent participation and serves as a meaningful introduction to the program.
Parent Involvement:
- Bring two childhood items that no longer define your son, such as a toy or book, symbolizing their transition into adulthood.
- Write a personal letter to your son, sharing cherished memories and offering words of encouragement for his journey ahead.
- Participate in a reflection activity, where both you and your son will write about something to ‘let go’ as they take on new responsibilities.
We encourage all Year 9 families to attend this important event. Please RSVP via the link below:
Middle School Expectations
– A Culture of Respect, Readiness, and Responsibility
At CBC, we are committed to creating a positive learning environment that fosters growth, discipline, and engagement. Our Middle School Expectations emphasise:
- Respect – Every student must show respect to teachers, peers, and the learning environment.
- Readiness – Being prepared for each lesson and taking responsibility for their learning.
- Responsibility – Meeting behavioural expectations and demonstrating leadership.
Key Student Reminders:
- Out-of-Class Device Policy – Students must follow school guidelines regarding mobile phone and device use.
- Classroom Standards – Teachers will uphold clear expectations to ensure the best learning environment. It is important that students understand the teacher is in charge of the classroom environment and respect must always be demonstrated.
- Laptops need to be charged overnight to ensure that students can access their laptop throughout the day for learning.
Mr Riley Atkinson
Assistant Director of Students (Middle School and Transition)