Mrs Kylie Cochran

Welcome

I would like to thank staff, students and the community for the warm welcome I have received during the past two weeks as I stepped into the role as Acting College Principal at Bentley Park College. Throughout my teaching career, I have worked across Queensland in Primary, Secondary and P-12 schools and I am looking forward to once again working in a College environment that offers both continuity of learning and positive pathways from Prep to Year 12.

In just the first two weeks, I am in awe of the depth of knowledge, expertise and innovation across the College, and as the term progresses, I am excited about visiting classes, chatting with students and learning more about the incredible work that takes place at Bentley Park College.

NAPLAN

The National Assessment program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a literacy and numeracy assessment that students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 sit each year. NAPLAN assesses the literacy and numeracy skills that students are learning through the school curriculum with students completing assessments in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy. The questions assess content linked to the Australian Curriculum: English and Maths and allows parents/carers to see how their child is progressing against national proficiency standards in these areas.

This year, NAPLAN testing will take place from Wednesday 12 March through to Monday 24 March. Across the College, staff have worked in preparing students in NAPLAN readiness – understanding the type of questions, how to use the technology platform to complete the test along with time management skills associated with the tasks. I wish our students all the best as they enter into NAPLAN 2025 next week.

College Leaders' and Year 12 Induction

College Captains Jemma, Harrison, Able and Kyan hosted their first event last week – the College Leaders’ and Year 12 Induction. Primary Captains Ella and Lily, Junior Secondary Captains Emma-Jean, Lily, Heidi and Ongai also took the leaders’ pledge, along with other student leaders from Year 6 to 12.

Year 12 Coordinator, Mr Leon Wilcox, also inducted our Year 12 cohort as Seniors 2025. Following the ceremony, the traditional Year 12 group photo was captured, and this year a Year 6 cohort photo was also taken. Year 12s can order these will their school photos, which were also taken last week. Year 6s will be able to order these group photos with their school photos, which will be taken on Thursday 5 June. 

Our Secondary Concert Band, led by Ms Alannah Bowen, performed the national anthem and also Egyptique, composed by William Owens. 

Thank you to our parents, carers and family members for attending the Induction, as well as our special guests Mr Terry James, State Member for Mulgrave, local councillors Cr Matthew Tickner, Cr Cathy Zeiger, and  P&C Operations Manager Mrs Andrea Barnard; and from our local police, Senior Sergeant Glen De Lai. Thank you also to Woree State High School Principal, Mr Maurice Andrejic, and school captains for attending. 

We congratulate all our student leaders, and also the Year 12 cohort for reaching their final year of school, and look forward to a great 2025!

College Leaders' and Year 12 Induction

2024 College Dux

Congratulations to our 2024 College Dux, Hayley Storey. Hayley and her loved ones were guests of honour at our College Leaders’ and Year 12 Induction ceremony last week, where Hayley was presented with her hard-earned prize by Lion Peter Taifalos.

2024 College Captain Hayley Storey’s academic and leadership record is outstanding.

She achieved Gold Academic Awards throughout Secondary, as well as Citizenship Gold awards and numerous Top of Subject awards.

Hayley’s Senior academic program consisted of five General Subjects; English, Mathematical Methods, Chemistry, Biology and Physical Education, achieving an A in all five and placing top of subject in Chemistry and Physical Education.

Hayley was also awarded the JCU Shield in Years 10, 11 and 12 for achieving the highest results in her year, so it is no surprise she is here with us today.

She is the first Bentley Park College student to achieve the double – earning the Primary Dux Award in 2018, and now the ultimate award of College Dux in 2024.

We thank the Lions Club of Edmonton for the generous Dux prize of $400, and thank Lion Taifalos for attending the ceremony to present Hayley with her award.

We are incredibly proud of Hayley’s achievements, which has led her to study a Bachelor of Nursing at James Cook University from this year.

Hayley gave an inspirational address when accepting her award, and was kind enough to share the transcript with us:

2024 College Dux Address

Hayley Storey

Good afternoon students, parents, teachers and special guests. As previously stated, I have been awarded the 2024 College Dux, which I am immensely grateful for, and proud of achieving, so thank you for everyone’s support, and the donation from the Lions Club Edmonton. Now I have the opportunity to share some words.

The past couple of years, I listened to the College Dux’s speeches, and I always wished that they would talk about the study techniques and the guide on how they got there, because I genuinely felt that I struggled with everything to do with studying. Now I’m not going to bore you all with that sort of stuff, because google and ChatGPT is free, but instead, I’d like to touch on a little bit of a cringey subject; obstacles and opportunities.

Why do I say cringey? Well let’s be honest, we’ve all been taught from a young age to be resilient, hence the GEM project, and that we should always rebound from our setbacks. We’re all sick of hearing how one closed door leads to another door opening. But I sincerely believe that obstacles more often than not, can lead to opportunities.

I could list hundreds of examples, but I’ll mention one. In Grade 6 and 9 I really wanted to be a school captain, and for those of you who are busy in your own school life, I did not get in. That was my opportunity. Not to withdraw from any future commitments, but rather spend my time elsewhere. For those, that would look different. Focussing on working as a school leader, your part-time job, school work, sports, hobbies or family.

So what’s the point of me telling all of you this? I want you all to understand that just because your school life, or your family, or your job is giving you a hard time, doesn’t mean your life will fall apart. Just because Year 11 sets you up for Year 12, doesn’t mean you’ll have a smooth sail. Just because Year 12 weighs heavily in determining your uni course, it still doesn’t mean there aren’t other pathways. And just because you didn’t get the highest ATAR out of your friend group, your school or your siblings, doesn’t mean you’re not going to succeed in other areas of your life. I believe that everyone will always face a difficulty, however what makes you excel compared to others, is how you tackle those situations.

I invite each of you to seek opportunities, particularly when you’re struggling. Now I am asking of you for a lot, but I wouldn’t ask you to do anything, that I myself wouldn’t do.

Thank you all for listening, and have a great day!

Osaka Seikei University Professional Visit

Pre-service teachers from Osaka Seikei University in Japan, as well as a professor, associate professor and two tour guides, visited Bentley Park College on Wednesday 5 March for the College’s first ever official professional visit. These are structured similarly to our Japanese school student visits, but involve classroom visits and teacher interaction, rather than student buddies.

 There were 13 Prep, three Primary and six Secondary pre-service teachers, and they visited classrooms across the College to gain knowledge to assist them with their future careers. They also toured all the College facilities and experienced a VR session. The group enjoyed a delicious lunch and afternoon tea catered and served by Year 12 Hospitality students and their teachers.

 At the Q&A at the end of the day, students asked how we teach all the students all the time and support them so well. They noticed great things about our routines and procedures, transitions around school and technology in the early years.

 It was a really special experience for the visitors – they were very engaged, taking notes and observing the learning and interactions between students and teachers, which transcend the language barrier. Their feedback on the day was excellent and they seemed very appreciative. We thank all the staff involved on making the visit such a great success.

 The College is excited to host more Japanese student visits this year in Secondary, with two groups due later this term. There has already been an overwhelming response for ‘Bentley Buddies’, and we are very proud of the warm way our students welcome visitors to our school.

Osaka Seikei University students

New Flags

Thank you to the Electorate Office of Hon Bob Katter MP, Federal Member for Kennedy, for supplying the College with new flags recently. They fly proudly each day, weather permitting, outside our College Administration Office.

Mrs Sue Bow

Year 6 Leaders

Congratulations to the Year 6 Captains, Ella and Lilly, and all Year 6 leaders on their recent induction. Leaders went through a rigorous selection process, where they have demonstrated and must maintain a high standard of behaviours including leadership, representation and advocacy. We wish them, and all our Year 6s, a great final year of Primary school. 

The 2025 Year 6 Leaders

Year 6 cohort photos

After the Induction, a formal Year 6 group photo and Year 6 Leaders' photo were taken. This is the first time we have done this at the College, and we were excited to see all the students standing tall on the stands in on their best behaviour and looking great in their uniforms. 

Families will be able to order the official photos when ordering our Primary school photos, which will be taken in Term 2, on Thursday 5 June. 

Meet our Primary Captains

	Ella	Lily
What are your interests?	Colouring in, reading, cheerleading and tumbling, fishing and camping with family, playing clarinet.	Drawing, the arts, playing volleyball and netball, being active, going on walks, playing clarinet.
Why do you love school and what made you want to be a leader?	I love school because it helps me learn new things. I also love being with my friends. I wanted to be a leader because my brother was one and he influenced me to be one.	I love the different activities I can do and how teachers put fun into the learning. I enjoy helping out the younger kids. I wanted to be a leader because I really care about younger students, because of my siblings, and I wanted to make them feel special.
What are your goals for 2025 and in the future when you graduate?	2025: Be more confident when speaking, to be able to do a back-walkover by the end of the year, and I want to try to get an A for all my subjects. After graduation: Go to university, but I'm not sure what I want to study yet.	2025: Improve my academic skills and be a good Captain. After Graduation: Succeed in life.
Do you have any advice to younger students wanting to be leaders?	Its ok if you make a mistake, just read it again or do it again and don’t give up. Believe you can do it.	Speak your opinion and don’t worry about what other people say about you. Believe in yourself.

Primary Open House

On Tuesday 18 February at 2.10 pm, the front gate was opened and many parents and carers emerged from cars and their cool air-conditioning to eagerly make their way to your classrooms. All visitors were welcomed in to observe and participate in teaching and learning with their students who were willing and eager to show off their reading routines and skills. 

From Prep, where even just being at school is very new, to Year 6 where our reading journey is still developing, there was interest and engagement from our community represented in every classroom. 

Thank you to all who attended the Primary Open House. We also thank our teachers for the dedication and commitment to develop the aligned routines and practices for reading, which enables us to hold this event and, of course, improve our students outcomes.  We now look forward to Parent Teacher Interviews next term. 

Students have also been provided with 'Support Reading at Home' posters, which is also below. Please contact the office if you would like a printed copy.

Supporting Reading at Home

Supporting Reading at Home 1.79 MB

Attendance

We are holding our high attendance rates across all Primary year levels as the year progresses, which is outstanding. Thank you parents, carers and staff. 

A reminder that school starts at 8.50 am across the College, so students should arrive at school by 8.45 am at the latest to comfortably get to class on time. 

From the Primary Student Services Team

Emma Taylor
Deputy Principal Primary Student Services
 emtay0@eq.edu.au

Cyber safety and online gaming

We are seeing an increasing number of students engaging via online platforms and gaming. It is important to know what the game/platform includes and the ages it is recommended for.

I regularly hear students tell us that they have been up late playing games such as Fortnite, Rodblox, Halo or watching Tiktok and YouTube. Regularly we see a correlation between a student’s engagement and their behaviour that is linked to their gaming and social media presence.

Below are some recommendations regarding the ages that children are mature enough to engage with these platforms. I have also included a link to assist in the management and monitoring of these types of activities. https://www.esafety.gov.au/

Sleep

While we consider online access, it is also important to consider the amount of sleep a child needs to be successful at school. Children's Health Queensland states that a child who does not get enough healthy sleep may experience difficulties with concentration, memory, regulating their emotions, organising tasks and creative thinking. These children may be easily distracted, irritable, disruptive or generally hyperactive and restless. A lack of healthy sleep has been linked to mental health problems, poor growth, excessive weight gain, and reduced school performance. Below is a table with the hours recommended for a child’s age.

Prep Vision Screening 

Primary Upcoming Events:

• NAPLAN: 12-24 March
• Primary Cross Country: Friday 28 March
• P-2 Easter Parade: Wednesday 2 April

Mr Jarrod Prakelt

Year 12 Induction

Year 12s received their Senior badges at the induction ceremony in the stadium and took the Senior Pledge. There’s a lot of great events in their final year of Secondary, including the Formal in September, sports carnivals and musical performances. The cohort will re-assemble in the stadium on Friday 21 November for their Graduation - only a short 10 months away!

Their names will then be displayed on the Graduates wall, and they will become part of BPC’s rich history. We look forward to a successful year and being a part of this wonderful group - the Bentley Park College Class of 2025.

Year 12 Induction

Secondary leaders

Well done to all our student leaders from Years 7-12, including College Captains Jemma, Harrison, Able and Kyan; and Junior Secondary Captains Emma-Jean, Lily, Heidi and Ongai, who were officially inducted last week. 

Year 7-12 Leaders

Meet our Junior Secondary Captains

	Emma-Jean	Lily	Heidi	Ongai
What are your interests?	I like gaming and softball.	My interests are mostly music related. I really enjoy singing and playing the drums, guitar and viola. Other than music I enjoy reading, playing volleyball and socialising.	My interests are volleyball, netball, ultimate disk and I do like basketball but not as much as other stuff. I also like woodwork but sadly I didn’t get into the class, cooking, making jewellery, and music as I play saxophone, drums and piano.	My interests are more sport like volleyball, music and being social around people, including teachers.
Why do you love school and what made you want to be a leader?	I love going to school to meet new people and see my friends. I wanted to be a leader to help students and teachers.	I love school because it has given me the opportunity to do things I never thought I’d want to do before, such as robotics, leadership, drama, music and so much more. I’ve been a leader since Year 7 and what made me initially want to sign up for leadership was going from Freshwater State School to Bentley Park. Due to my primary school being in the other side of Cairns I didn’t know anyone starting out and I saw this as an opportunity to become almost a better person than I was in Year 6, a more confident person and someone who could actually make a change and leadership was the way to achieve this.	The things I love about school are getting to see my friends, my elective classes (music and media arts), band, and getting to learn new things every day. I’ve always wanted to be a leader since I was young. I always looked up to the school leaders when I was in primary school, but I never thought I would get the opportunity since I moved school frequently. I think I must have gone to at least 8 different schools from prep and grade 1. But luckily, I haven’t moved since I came to Bently Park, and I am so grateful to have the chance to become a leader from grades 7-9.	I love school for teaching us not just academia, sport, arts, or other subjects but life skills like critical thinking, communication, leadership, problem solving and even mental health solutions. What made me become a leader is to make these students needs and wants be possible, for a greater future, and they can rely on me for that.
What are your goals for 2025 and in the future when you graduate?	My goals for 2025 are to get my grades up, and in the future I want to become an early learning teacher.	My goal for 2025 is to be a more organised person. Currently I’m not sure what I want to do in the future.	My goals this year are to achieve better grades and to improve my writing and typing skills particularly my speed. When I graduate, I want to get a degree in education and work as a music teacher as I love music and can play various instruments such as piano, recorder, ukelele, saxophone, glockenspiel, guitar and drums.	My goals for 2025 are to at least get above Bs on all of subjects, become fit and make a difference within the environment around BPC. In the future I want to create my own business to provide for my family, my loved ones and to live the life of a wealthy man.
Do you have any advice to younger students wanting to be leaders?	Definitely go for it! Even if you're worried!	My advice to anyone aspiring to be a leader is simple: just go for it. There's no reason why you shouldn't. High school is the perfect time to challenge yourself and take risks. It's the ideal moment to step out of your comfort zone and try something new, even if it feels intimidating. And if you make a mistake along the way, that's okay, this is the time to learn from it and grow. Leadership isn't reserved for a select few; anyone can be a leader. All it takes is an open mind and the courage to step up and make a difference.	If you want to become a leader or think that you would make a good one, then you should go for it. Because the worst they can say is no and it’s better to know if you would’ve got it then not knowing at all. I’m a good example of that as I never expected to get to where I am now, which is why you should give something scary that you think you could do but you’re too scared to do because you never know what will happen. You could get it, but you also might not but it’s always better to know than not to, and you could always give it a try next time. As I went for it in grade 6 but didn’t get it so I tried it again next year and kept getting it after that. So, it’s always better to give it a try than not to.	My advice for younger kids, is develop a love for this school, your people around you and flood yourself in this job with a great objective. To LEAD this school on, don't be arrogant but confident and lead with example

Meet our College Captains

	Jemma	Harrison	Able	Kyan
What are your interests?	In whatever free time I have I love to go the beach or out for a drive. I also love listening to and making music.	At the moment it's completing school to move onto university while still trying to enjoy school.	Hanging out with my friends and family, music composition and performance and going on a walk or outdoor related activities.	My interests include playing basketball, being outside, listening to music, and learning facts about animals.
Why do you love school and what made you want to be a leader?	I love school because the people I get to share every day and every memory with. I enjoy all the events we have and just being social. I wanted to become a leader to prove that by surrounding yourself with good people and having a positive mindset, you can achieve almost anything. You might think these things are out of your reach but there is no harm in giving it a go.	I've always mainly loved my friends at school and it also helped me move towards a leadership position.	There are many reasons I enjoy school, namely my friends, my teachers and my subjects. I have found every connection, every fun moment with friends and every day, regardless of how long or tiring, to be worthwhile. I am, however, aware that this isn’t the case for every student which was one of the main factors of why I wanted to be a leader, to help make school enjoyable for more people.	I love school because it is a place where people can try new things and find their identity. The reason I wanted to be a leader is to help the younger students and make BPC a place people want to come to.
What are your goals for 2025 and in the future when you graduate?	In 2025 I am hoping to achieve amazing results in academics, citizenship and the arts. I also want to make as many memories as possible with my friends and make the most of my senior year. After school I hope to go to university to study business or teaching.	Keep the friends I've got and go to university.	My personal goals for 2025 are to achieve a good ATAR and to make the most of my final year, extending myself to make as many lasting memories as I can. I hope that when I finish school, I will have the necessary marks to enter tertiary studies for law.	My goals for 2025 are to graduate, pass all my classes and excel in sports. After school to go to Uni and play basketball professionally.
Do you have any advice to younger students wanting to be leaders?	My advice is to anyone and everyone even slightly considering a leadership role is just go for it. Even if you don't get in, there is no harm in trying, who knows you might really enjoy it. It all comes together in the end! Everything happens for a reason!	Even if you have never been a leader, you fail 100% of the things you don't try.	My biggest advice for younger people who aspire to achieve leadership positions is to not doubt yourself. Everyone has the capacity to lead. You may already be a leader to those around you, so don’t ever think you can’t do it.	My advice to younger students would be to stay true to yourself and your beliefs. It is important to be open and listen to other perspectives and ideas, but don’t lose sight in what you believe in.

Junior Secondary (Years 7-9)

Sara Janke
Deputy Principal Junior Secondary Teaching and Learning
sjank11@eq.edu.au

I would like to thank all our parents, families and carers who have provided students with the resources they need to be successful in their classes. Your commitment to your students' education is meaningful and ensures every classroom is the best academic environment it can be! I encourage you to check in with your child about their start to the year. Have a conversation about which subjects they are enjoying most and how they’re settling into their classes. A little encouragement goes a long way, especially at this time of year!

Please note that class changes for Years 7-9 have now closed, and billing for specialty subjects has commenced. If you have any questions, please reach out to our administration team.

As we move into Weeks 7 and 8, we want to remind everyone that NAPLAN testing will be taking place. This is an important opportunity for students to demonstrate their skills in literacy and numeracy, and we encourage you to talk with your child about how they can prepare and feel confident during the test.

Uniforms help to promote a sense of pride and belonging within the school community. Please remember that all students are expected to wear the correct school uniform. For Junior Secondary students, this includes a maroon top with blue sleeves and maroon pants, or our formal uniform. To meet workplace health and safety requirements, students must wear closed-in footwear such as joggers or trainers.

Thank you for your unwavering support—together, we’re helping every student reach their full potential this school year!

Secondary School Photos 

Our Secondary school photos were taken last week by NQ School Photography, including the Year 12 group photo, Year 12 Leadership group photo and College Captain photo. 

For students who were absent on photo day, NQ School Photography will be returning to the College in Week 7, on the morning of Friday 14 March, to take catch-up photos. 

It's not too late to order online: https://www.nqsp.com.au/

Study Centre

The Secondary Study Centre in the JP Library has begun and is now before school on Mondays to Thursdays. It's a great way for students to get a little bit of extra assistance with their homework and assessments. 

Secondary Upcoming Events:

• NAPLAN: 12-24 March
• Catch-up school photos: Friday 14 March
• Secondary Cross Country: Tuesday 1 April
• Furukawa Gakuen Japanese student visit: Friday 21 March
• Esports FUSE Cup Mario Cart: Wednesday 19 March
• Junior Secondary Term 1 rewards session: Monday 31 March
• Year 7 'Get to know you' days: Wednesday 2 and Friday 4 April
• Uenomiya HS Japanese student visit: Wednesday 2 April
• Sports Academy Innisfail trip: Thursday 3 April

Primary Clean Up Schools Day

Primary students enthusiastically participated in Clean Up Schools Day on Friday 28 February!  Time was set aside after lunch to clean up rubbish to beautify the environment. Students had fun, and even asked if they could do this weekly. What a great idea!

Clean Up Schools Day

Valentine's Day Fundraiser

Year 12 Leaders and Year 12 Coordinator Mr Wilcox celebrated Valentine's Day by selling roses, chocolates and raffle tickets for a romantic dinner for two, raising funds for the Class of 2025's legacy project.

Valentine's Day

GRIP Leadership Conference

By Alisa & Ashlee, College Leaders

The GRIP Leadership Conference was an eye-opening experience that reshaped our understanding of leadership. It taught us many things about what leadership truly is, how we can help others in many different ways and why we should be proud of having this position.

The day was not only fun, but entertaining too as we interacted with all the other schools that had attended, sharing our ideas with one another many times throughout the conference.

Above all, the GRIP Leadership Conference reminded us to be proud of the responsibility that comes with leadership. It is an opportunity to make a lasting impact, not just on the people we lead, but on the world around us. 

Yarns from Yaburu Bulmba 

What an incredible six weeks it's been at Yaburu Bulmba!

Our mentors and students have settled into the YB space. Mentors have shared positivity, wisdom, perspective and knowledge to help our girls navigate the challenges of high school, fostering growth and opening doors to new opportunities!

Each week, YB welcomes our girls to J Block for yarning circles and activities, such as music, dancing, art, beading and games. A popular new edition is Karaoke Mondays at first lunch.

Our Seniors are focussed on creating resumes, cover letters and seeking teacher references. They've been supported by their YB mentors with assessments, exams, checkpoints and monitoring QCE points during lunch breaks and TRP classes. 

Last week, our Year 12 girls attended their Year 12 Induction, preparing them for their final year of school. The girls have built strong connections and set goals for themselves for this year. 

To celebrating International Women’s Day, a handful of our YB girls were invited to dance with ‘Sacred Creations' Dance Troupe last night, for the First Nations Women on Country Land and Sea Rangers Awards Night at the Pullman Cairns International Hotel.

The event ‘Strong women on Country’ celebrated our First Nations Women Rangers on country. The girls were aspiring and confident showcasing their passion for their culture. Congratulations to our amazing girls representing Yaburu Bulmba and making us proud!

A number of our girls have volunteered to buddy with our visiting Japanese students later this term. YB will host a cultural lesson on weaving for Harmony Day, where the Japanese students will learn about our culture, identity, diversity traditions and perspectives, enriching their understanding of Indigenous Australia.

Coming up YB are looking forward to our learning on country excursion day at the Kuranda Rainforeststation Nature Park in Weeks 8 and 9!

Yaburu Bulmba

Upcoming Citizenship Events:

• Furukawa Gakuen Japanese student visit: Friday 21 March
• Junior Secondary Term 1 rewards session: Monday 31 March
• Year 7 'Get to know you' days: Wednesday 2 and Friday 4 April
• Uenomiya HS Japanese student visit: Wednesday 2 April
• BPC Anzac commemorations: Wednesday 23 April
• Anzac Day Edmonton Dawn Service performance: Friday 25 April

Peries IGA

Proud sponsor of our Citizenship Pillar of Excellence

 
Congratulations Johnathon!

Year 12 student Johnathon T. played a lead role of Jack in Cairns Little Theatre's production of Charley's Aunt at the Rondo Theatre recently. Directed by Kevin Shorey,  the play was a sell-out and received rave reviews. Well done Johnathon!

Johnathon in Charley's Aunt

Upcoming Arts Events:

• Anzac Ceremony performances: Wednesday 23 April
• Anzac Day Edmonton Dawn Service performance: Friday 25 April
• Big Night Out: Wednesday 28 May
• Cairns and District Junior Eisteddfod:  19 June - 4 July

Designing the future!

We were thrilled to welcome Kate and Amber, talented architects from Cairns Regional Council, to Bentley Park College this week! They spent valuable time with our Year 12 Design students, Kyan and Ethan, diving deep into the world of bus stop design.

 This hands-on workshop provided the students with incredible insights into the practicalities of urban design, community needs, and the creative process behind public spaces. The visitors shared their expertise, discussing everything from accessibility and sustainability to the aesthetic appeal of functional structures.

It's fantastic to see our students engaging directly with industry professionals and contributing to potential future developments in our community. A huge thank you to Kate and Amber for their time and expertise, and to Kyan and Ethan for their passion and dedication! We can't wait to see what innovative designs they come up with!

Kyan and Ethan at the architcture workshop

Year 7 Digital Technologies

Some of our Year 7 students took further steps into the world of coding, and they absolutely nailed it! From problem-solving to thinking like real programmers, they showed curiosity, creativity, and determination in every challenge.

It's inspiring to see young minds embracing technology and developing skills that will shape the future. Keep up the great work, Year 7 - we can't wait to see what you create next!

Year 7 Digital Technologies

Robotics Club

The Bentley Park College after-school Robotics Club was established to allow time for students in Years 5 to 12 to develop robots to compete in competitions. These competitions are run by QSITE each year at Cairns’ schools, including Bentley Park College.

Robotics Club is run by Secondary ICT Teacher Mr John O'Grady after school on Fridays from 3.15 pm to 4.45 pm in TA Block. In Term 1, the Club will run in Weeks 4 to 9; in Terms 2, 3 and 4 in Weeks 1-9. Interested students can collect an Excursion Consent Form from Mr O'Grady.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) is a term used to describe a digital device ownership model where students or staff use their personally-owned devices to access the Department of Education and Training's (DET) information and communication technology (ICT) network.

The Bentley Park College BYOD program for Secondary, and TechExpress program for Years 3-6, were developed in response to the significant role technology plays in education. They enable students to bring a personally-owned device to school as a learning tool and provides seamless movement between school and home. 

Students wishing to access the program and their parents/carers must have read the Acceptable Use of Information Technology and Virtual Reality Equipment and Systems Policy, and completed an Acceptable Use of Information Technology and Virtual Reality Equipment and Systems Agreement. 

BYOD Program Device Specifications gives you information on device provider partners and program device specifications.

For more information on our BYOD Program, please see our website. 

Student Laptop Hire Program

Bentley Park College can assist with the provision of a loan device for students and families. Parents and carers who require a loan device for their student should contact the school to make enquiries and complete the necessary hire documentation.

All hire laptops are set up for each individual student and are not used by other students. The Department of Education and Training’s (DET) Managed Operating Environment (MOEv5 Windows 10 Education Edition), Microsoft Office 2016, filtered internet, access to the school network and access to school software comes as standard on each device.  

If you have any questions regarding the BYOD Program or the Student Laptop Hire Program please contact the Head of Department ICT P-12, Tracy Shorten, via email - tshor49@eq.edu.au or phone - 4040 8141.

• P-12 Student Laptop Hire Charter
• P-12 Student Laptop Hire Charter Agreement

Upcoming Technology Events:

• Robotics Club: Friday afternoons, 3.15 pm to 3.45 pm
• Esports FUSE Cup Mario Cart: Wednesday 19 March

Interhouse Sport

Congratulations to the blue Arlington Marlins, who have taken out the 2025 Secondary Swimming Carnival this afternoon at Woree Pool! Keep an eye out on social media and the next newsletter for full results and photos.

In Week 9, on Friday 28 March, the Primary Cross Country will be held, followed by the Secondary Cross Country in Week 10 on Tuesday 1 April. 

Sports Academy

The Year 7 Sports Academy for 2025 has officially kicked off! Students have been honing their skills in Football, Netball and Rugby League as they prepare for their upcoming games. They are proudly wearing their NWA Sports Academy training shirts, which are available for purchase at the school office and are included in their Sports Academy fee for $70. Once purchased, training shirts can be collected from the P&C Uniform Shop before school from 8.00 am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 

BPC NWA Sports Academy

Sports Academy Captains

Introducing our 2025 NWA Sports Academy Captains:

• Rugby League: Deacon M. & Greg M.
• Netball: Aaliyah-Jae W. & Alivia N.
• Football: Sienna B. & Daniel D.

Congratulations students. Thank you also to our Sports Academy Coordinators, Mr Jared Allen, Rugby League; Miss Kalika Struber, Netball; and Mr Chris Clauss, Football.

Sports Academy Captains and Coordinators

Year 7 & 9 Rugby League

Last week, our Year 7 and 9 Rugby League teams played their first interschool matches of the year, against Woree State High School.

The Year 7 team delivered a dominant performance, securing a 36-10 victory, with Edmund being named player of the match. Unfortunately, the Year 9s faced a tough challenge, narrowly losing 20-16 in a hard-fought contest that saw them compete until the very end. Roy scored a hat trick, earning him player of the match honours.

Year 7 & 9 Rugby League

Primary Sport

Cowboys Community Engagement Program

The Resilience Project (TRP) was brought to life for our Year 6 students recently through workshops led by the North Queensland Cowboys.

Krystal Blackwell from the Cowboys NRLW, and NRL assistant coach and community engagement officer Joe, reinforced key TRP messages and school rules while teaching students fun skills - getting their heart rates up and energy out!

They spoke about the importance of learning, and being ‘coachable’. An example they used was how the Cowboys have had some really good players, but they didn’t listen and learn so didn’t make the team. They want people who are willing to learn and accept feedback.

Students learnt that competitiveness doesn’t necessarily mean winning all the time; instead, it’s about trying your best all the time. They reminded students they should be grateful that we get to come to school, and that respect means listening and looking at people when they speak to you. Krystal and Joe commented on how well our students did this.

We thank our visitors and the Cowboys community engagement program for this informative, hands-on experience for our Year 6 students. The Cowboys are a valued TRP partner, helping schools build resilient, positive and mentally healthy primary and secondary students through delivery of this great program as part of the curriculum.

6A enjoy the Cowboys program

Upcoming Sports Events:

• Primary Cross Country: Friday 28 March
• Secondary Cross Country: Tuesday 1 April
• Sports Academy Innisfail trip: Thursday 3 April

Northern Wheel Aligners: Proud Gold Sponsor of the Sports Academy

Safety at school crossings

Alumni

Calling Bentley Park College alumni (a graduate or former student of an educational institution) - we want to hear your story! Send us a short update and photo via email or Messenger to the Bentley Park College Facebook page if you're happy for us to share with the school and Cairns community!

To read bios of former students please click on the link below to take you to the Alumni page of our website.

Contact Details

Please ensure your contact details are up to date. If you have moved house or changed your phone number – please contact the Administration on 4040 8111 or email info@bentleyparkcollege.eq.edu.au to ensure that we can contact you. It is in your child’s best interests to have a valid contact number for a parent/carer.

From our School-based Youth Health Nurse

Jordy Milbourne is our new School-based Youth Health Nurse in Secondary. She is at the College on Mondays, Tuesdays and alternating Wednesdays. Jordy's email is jmilb23@eq.edu.au. Please see flyer following for more information on the service.

The Department works actively to support students’ health and wellbeing in schools. If you are concerned about your child’s wellbeing, you can contact the College to ask what additional support might be available. Support is also available through a number of Queensland Government agencies and community organisations.

Parents and carers can call 13Health (13 43 25 84) at any time for practical medical advice and assistance.

You are also able to contact Lifeline Australia’s telephone counselling service on 13 11 14 for information and advice or obtain help and information from a local General Practitioner or Community Health Centre.

Queensland Health

A reminder that all the latest health information is available on the Queensland Health website. As always, the health and wellbeing of your children, and our staff, remain our focus.

Your Mental Wellbeing

The Queensland Government's website has a page with services and organisations to support you if you are struggling with your mental health. 

School Immunisation Program

Starting in 2024, the School Immunisation Program will include vaccination against the meningococcal B (menB) strain, the most common cause of illness and death from meningococcal disease in Queensland.

This is in addition to the protection already offered to Year 10 students against meningococcal strains A, C, W and Y. Parents/carers will receive an information package along with a consent form. It is important to read the information and discuss it with your child.  

More information for schools and parents/carers about this additional vaccination can be found on the Queensland Health services in state schools webpage.

Triple P

The Teen Triple P- Positive Parenting Program provides families with children aged between 10 to 16 years, free, expert parenting advice. Learn how to raise confident, capable teens by managing and encouraging behaviour, supporting wellbeing and helping to improve social skills.  

Support Information for Families

There are a number of different organisations in the Cairns area that are able to provide support to families. Please see one of our guidance officers for more information:

Primary: Mr Scott Gilmour sgilm26@eq.edu.au

Years 7-9: Ms Christina Wight cwigh12@eq.edu.au

Years 10-12: Ms Sheri Mills sxmil6@eq.edu.au

Cairns_and_Hinterland_Supports_for_Families_Flyer_Last_updated_18122023.pdf

Cairns_and_Hinterland_Supports_for_Families_Flyer_Last_updated_18122023 _pdf 325.08 KB

Cairns and Hinterland Oral Health Services

Is it time for your children to have a dental check-up? Come and visit us at one of our dental facilities. Simply call 1300 300 850 to book an appointment for a FREE dental check-up. Appointments available at Clinics and Dental Vans across the Mossman and Cairns Districts.

Eligibility includes:
Children aged between 0-17
Current Medicare Card is required

For more information on Cairns and Hinterland Oral Health Services
Visit – https://www.health.qld.gov.au/cairns_hinterland/html/cairns_north_oral
Call today to find out how your friendly School Dental team can help

P&C Meetings: AGM

The BPC P&C Annual General Meeting (AGM) and March Meeting will be held next Tuesday, 11 March from 7.00 am in the Primary Library 'Fishbowl' conference room. We encourage new and returning parents and carers to attend and find out how the P&C supports the College and students.

There are many ways you can be involved:

• Providing input on routine and budgets.
• Contributing to policies on behaviour, uniforms, and sun safety.
• Assisting with fundraising, events or volunteering in the Tuckshop/Canteen and Uniform Shop.

Everybody has a role to play and new ideas will be heard. The more people involved in our P&C the more exciting and successful it will be. If you would like more information or to speak to current members, please contact Andrea Barnard, P&C Operations Officer, on 4045 4971, 04313 286 123 or bpcpnc@bigpond.net.au.

BPC P&C meeting dates for 2025:

• Term 1: Tuesday 11 March (AGM)
• Term 2: Tuesday 11 May; Tuesday 10 June
• Term 3: Tuesday 15 August
• Term 4: Tuesday 14 October; Tuesday 24 November

Uniform Shop

The Uniform Shop is open from 8.00 am to 10.30 am, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Come and see us first for all your schooling needs including uniforms for Preps right through to Year 12s, stationery, book packs for Prep -12 students, House colour sports shirts, hats, school socks, hair ties, school badges, winter jackets, rain ponchos, Music group black pants, BPC backpacks and more.

If you need the Uniform Shop outside normal opening hours these hours, please make an appointment online via bentleyparkcollege@setmore.com.au

Online Uniform Shop:

BPC Uniform and Dress Code Policy:

Tuckshop and Canteen

The Secondary Canteen opens daily for both lunches, and the Primary Tuckshop opens at first lunch each day and second lunch Wednesday to Friday. Prep students can use the Tuckshop from Term 2.

Primary Tuckshop Menu:

Secondary Canteen Menu:

Tuckshop/Canteen online ordering:

Find the Bentley Park College P&C Association on Facebook!

Bentley Park Outside School Hours Care 

The Bentley Park Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) and Vacation Care program is run by the Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) for Primary students. The OSHC facility is located on Bentley Park College grounds to the south, in the Primary Sector. 

PCYC Queensland is one of the state's largest providers of OSHC, with over 100 service locations. They provide care to more than 25,000 children at their 83 school-based and 20 club-based services, through their before school and after school and vacation care programs.

About Bentley Park OSHC

The facility boasts a large air conditioned centre, fully covered veranda, media room and a continuous supply of toys and activities to keep young minds active.

Fully qualified staff offer a variety of educational and stimulating activities for the children and have access to the College’s grounds, undercover areas, basketball courts, tennis courts and outdoor playgrounds.

The centre also provides daily healthy afternoon snacks for the children.

How to Enrol

• Register on Kidsoft Parent Portal, login and create a waitlist. 
• Once you have submitted your enrolment, you can make a permanent booking.
• The next time you are at Bentley Park OSHC, please sign the hard copy the service holds.

Please be aware that if your child has a medical condition management plan from their doctor, they may not be able to start until you have had a meeting with our Service Manager. At this meeting, we may need you to provide us with additional information so we can safely care for your child.

Eligible parents and carers may receive the Australian Government's Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to assist with fees.  

Opening hours:
Morning care: 6.30 am - 9.00 am
After school care: 3.00 pm - 6.00 pm
Vacation and 'Student Free Day' care: 6.30 am - 6.00 pm

School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI)

The Australian Government has established the School Student Broadband Initiative External link (SSBI) to provide free home internet until 31 December 2025 for up to 30,000 unconnected families across Australia with school aged students. The National Referral Centre (NRC) has been established to allow families to self-nominate for the SSBI and can also provide families assistance with nomination details and contacting and arranging a service provider if required.

To be eligible for the SSBI, a family must:

• have a child living at home that is enrolled in a Queensland school (Prep to Year 12)
• have no active broadband service over the NBN network. Having a mobile internet service does not affect eligibility
• live in a premises that can access a standard NBN service
• not have had an active NBN connection during the previous 14 days
• have their suitability determined via an assessment conducted by the NRC.

To apply, families can directly contact the NRC or be referred by a participating nominating organisation - The Smith Family or the NRC .

Saver Plus

Could you use an extra $500 towards school costs in 2025? The Saver Plus Program is about boosting financial skills, to develop (and keep) good savings habits. 

You can put money towards education expenses including:

• Computers, laptops, and tablets
• Books, uniforms & shoes
• Sports & music, camps, excursions, and more…

If you save up to $50 a month for 10 months, Saver Plus will double it. $500 saved + $500 matched = $1000 (in 10 months).

Visit www.saverplus.org.au for more details.

Acknowledgement of Country

Bentley Park College acknowledges the Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji Bama, meaning people, the Traditional Owners of the Bulmba, meaning place, where the College is built. 

The College is located between two significant waterways – Bana Gindaja, meaning water and cassowary, and Bana Jubugaraa, meaning water and big boomerang. 

We extend our respects to their Elders, their Ancestors and Future Generations as they hold the memories and the traditions and maintain the culture of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Bama. We continue to offer sincere respect to all First Nations People. 

The College recognises the Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji connection to Country through caring for and maintaining Country over thousands of years. May their strength and wisdom be with us today and encourage us to carry our respect into the future.

Bentley Park College is proud to present our valued sponsors and thank them for their generous support.

Our sponsorship opportunities are specifically designed to deliver on our sponsors commercial, brand and/or community engagement objectives. 

Please contact Kylea Rowan, Marketing Officer, via phone 4040 8246 or email  to discuss our sponsorship proposal, which include gold, silver and bronze tiers. 

More details on our sponsorship packages is also available on our website on our Become a sponsor page. 

Pacific Toyota

Pacific Toyota is a Bentley Park College Gold Sponsor, and we thank them for their support of our Automotive Program.

Pacific Toyota https://www.pacifictoyota.com.au/

Osborne Construction Solutions

Thank you to Osborne Construction Solutions, Bentley Park College Gold Sponsor and supporter of our Construction Program.

Osborne Construction Solutions website https://www.osborneconstructions.com/

Northern Wheel Aligners

Thank you to Gold Sponsor Northern Wheel Aligners and their support of our Sports Academy.

Northern Wheel Aligners website https://www.nwasuspension.com.au/

Peries IGA

Thank you to Peries IGA for their Gold Sponsorship of the Citizenship Pillar of Excellence.

Peries IGA website https://www.iga.com.au/stores/peries-iga-edmonton/

Teresa Cawte - Cairns @realty Services https://www.atrealty.com.au/teresacawte/