Secondary Parent Teacher Interviews

Term 1 reports will have been emailed out for all Secondary students by the end of this week.  We hope you find this feedback useful in reviewing your child’s progress so far this year, and in aiding them to set goals for the remainder of the year.

All parents and carers are requested to meet with their child’s teachers at the Secondary Parent Teacher Interviews so we can work together to ensure your child achieves to their potential.

Interviews will be held on Tuesday 29 April from 3.20 pm to 6.00 pm in G Block, which is easily accessed via the Borrowdale Close entrance.  

Families of Year 11 and 12 students are also invited to book an interview with Ms Sheri Mills, the Guidance Officer, to commence discussions and planning around university applications for 2026 or 2027.

Instructions for how interviews can be booked via www.schoolinterviews.com.au - enter the code 5a5f8

Alternatively, interviews can be booked by contacting our office on 4040 8207 or 4040 8214.

We look forward to working together with you to support your child’s success at our college.

Junior Secondary (Years 7-9)

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

As we reach the end of Term 1, it’s a great time to reflect on the progress made across our school. This term, we’ve placed a particular focus on reading—from improving comprehension to enhancing fluency and vocabulary knowledge. It’s been fantastic to see students engage in developing these essential skills.

Another highlight this term was the successful completion of NAPLAN for Year 7 and 9 students. Our students tackled the tests with dedication, and we’re proud of their efforts. We look forward to sharing the results later in the year.

With the end of the reporting period, students will be bringing home their Term 1 reports. These reports offer valuable insights into their academic progress and areas for growth. We encourage families to review these reports and discuss them with their child. Looking ahead to Term 2, we’re excited about the Parent Teacher Interviews. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and how we can continue to support their learning. More details on booking interviews will be provided soon.

Looking ahead to Term 2, we’re excited to announce the launch of our new Laptop Scheme – Hire to Own. Rather than hiring laptops each term, families and students can now pay off a laptop over time, ensuring seamless ownership and continued access to technology for their learning. Be sure to read the rest of the newsletter for more details on this exciting initiative.

Thank you to all students, staff, and families for your continued efforts throughout the term. Wishing you a restful break, and we look forward to Term 2!

Mrs Tash Toohey
Deputy Principal Junior Secondary Student Services
ttoh7@eq.edu.au

Social Media and Student Wellbeing: What Parents Need to Know

At Bentley Park College, we work hard to create a safe and supportive environment for all students. However, one of the biggest challenges we face in managing student behaviour stems from social media use outside of school hours. Nearly all our out-of-class behaviour incidents—whether they involve conflicts, threats, or even physical altercations—originate from social media interactions that have escalated.

The impact of social media on mental health

Research has consistently shown that excessive social media use can have serious effects on the mental health of young people. Studies have linked heavy use of platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat to increased anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and low self-esteem.

The Australian eSafety Commissioner highlights that exposure to cyberbullying, unrealistic portrayals of life, and online peer pressure can negatively impact teenagers' mental well-being. Additionally, a 2019 study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found that frequent social media use disrupts sleep and physical activity, both of which are critical for mental health.

Parental observation is essential

Given these risks, it is entirely appropriate for parents/carers to set clear boundaries around their child's social media use. This includes:

• limiting screen time: Experts recommend no more than two hours per day of recreational screen use for teenagers.
• checking social media activity: Parents/carers should know what platforms their children are using, who they are talking to, and what content they are consuming.
• encouraging open conversations: Talking about responsible online behaviour and the risks of oversharing can help teens navigate social media more safely.

Mobile phones at school: not necessary

It is important to remember that students at Bentley Park College do not need mobile phones during school hours. Phones are not permitted for use at school, and there is no educational or social benefit to bringing them. Instead, they often become a distraction, a source of conflict, or a tool for inappropriate online behaviour. If students need to contact home, they can do so through the school office.

We urge parents and carers to take an active role in managing their child's online activity. By setting boundaries, monitoring content, and reinforcing responsible technology use, families can help reduce the negative impact of social media and support their child’s mental well-being.

For more information on online safety, visit the eSafety Commissioner website.

I hope all of our students and families have a safe and relaxing break.

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:

• Secondary Anzac Ceremonies: Wednesday 23 April
• Secondary Parent Teacher Interviews: Tuesday 29 April
• Secondary Athletics Carnival: Friday 23 May