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Inspiring Minds, Hearts and Spirits
Principal's Report
Principal's Report
MR STEPHEN DWYER | Term 1, Week 6
Dear Parents, Carers and Friends of our College community,
As we move through the term, many positive activities and opportunities are taking place across our College community, with our students continuing to engage in a wide range of learning experiences that support their growth. I encourage all students to continue to make the most of the learning opportunities provided, approaching their studies with commitment and a willingness to grow. In this edition of the newsletter, we outline our strategic priorities for 2026, share highlights from recent weeks, and provide important information and upcoming events that continue to strengthen the life of our College community.
Strategic Priorities for 2026
Our College Strategic Improvement Plan, Inspiring Minds, Hearts and Spirits, identifies three key priority areas that guide our work as a community:
Formation in Catholic Identity and Marist Spirituality,
Culture of Excellence in Learning and Teaching,
Flourishing Marist Community.
These priorities provide the framework for the ongoing growth and development of our College and ensure that all we do remains grounded in our mission and commitment to the young people in our care.
Each year, we identify a small number of focused improvement areas to continue strengthening the quality of learning, wellbeing, and formation offered at the College. Our approach is to be highly strategic in our work by focusing on a limited set of priorities rather than attempting to address too many initiatives at once. This allows us to deeply focus on initiatives, carefully evaluate progress, measure success and ensure that our resources and professional learning are clearly targeted to areas that will have the greatest impact for our students.
For 2026, our Annual Improvement Plan focuses on four key areas:
Formation in Catholic Identity and Marist Spirituality
We will continue to strengthen opportunities for faith formation so that our Marist mission is brought to life in the daily experiences of students and staff.Culture of Excellence in Learning and Teaching
A key focus will be on enhancing staff understanding of differentiation and implementing evidence-based teaching strategies to further improve student literacy outcomes. This work will support teachers to respond effectively to the diverse learning needs of students while maintaining high expectations for all learners.Flourishing Marist Community
We will research and implement an evidence-based pastoral care program that is age-appropriate and designed to support student wellbeing and engagement in learning. A strong culture of Pastoral Care is central to our Catholic identity and Marist spirituality, ensuring that every student is known, valued and supported.We will continue to develop our workforce plan to ensure the effective sourcing, selection, induction and retention of high-quality staff. The strength of our College lies in the dedication and professionalism of our staff, and supporting them in their work is essential to the ongoing success of our community.
Through these focused priorities, we seek to continue building a vibrant Marist learning community where students are supported in growing academically, spiritually, and personally.
College Open Day
Our College Open Day will be held on Sunday, 22 March from 10.00am to 1.00pm, and we warmly invite members of our community and prospective families to join us for this important occasion.
Open Day provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase the richness of life at our College. It allows visitors to experience first-hand the learning programs, facilities, boarding opportunities and the wide range of academic, cultural, sporting and pastoral experiences available to students. It is also a valuable opportunity for prospective parents and students to meet our dedicated staff and students, tour the College and gain a genuine sense of the spirit and mission that underpin our community.
Open Day is always a very positive and welcoming experience, and families consistently express how much they value the opportunity to see the College in action and hear directly from those who are part of our community.
Highlights of the day will include:
Guided tours of the College and boarding facilities
Displays and activities from our learning areas
Opportunities to meet staff and students
Information about our academic programs and boarding life
Light refreshments and a chance to experience the warm hospitality of our College community.
We look forward to welcoming many families on the day and thank our staff and students who contribute so generously to ensuring this event is a success.
College Advisory Council
The College Advisory Council met for their first meeting for 2026 on Monday the 2nd of March. The College Advisory Council meets six times a year and is an advisory group to the Principal. We are blessed to have a council that has such depth of expertise in education and school improvement. The members of the College Advisory Council are:
Dr Mark Turkington - Chair - Educational Consultant and previous Regional Director of Sydney Catholic Schools
Br Robert O’Connor - Marist Brother and previous Principal of various Marist schools
Mr Alan Le Brocque - Ex Principal Marian Catholic College Griffith
Ms Peggy Saab - Previous Director of Catholic Education, Wilcannia Forbes
Ms Laetitia Richmond - Principal St Scholastica's College Glebe
Mr Daniel Delmage - Head of School Improvement, Diocese of Wollongong
Mrs Kathy Garland - Parent Representative
Mr Gerard Elias - Parent Representative
Ms Merindah Wilson - Aboriginal Education Officer - Catholic Education Wilcannia Forbes
Mr Malcom Goodwin - Head of Corporate Services - Catholic Education Wilcannia Forbes
I sincerely thank the members of our College Advisory Council for their support of our College community.
Year 12 Retreat – “A Future Full of Hope”
Our Year 12 students recently participated in their retreat, centred on the theme “A Future Full of Hope.” This theme provided a meaningful and reflective foundation for our students as they continue their journey through this significant HSC year. The retreat offered a valuable opportunity for students to step away from the busyness of school life and take time to reflect on their hopes, values and the path that lies ahead of them.
It was a privilege for me to spend some time with the students during their retreat experience and to witness the thoughtful way in which they engaged with the program. The willingness of the students to participate openly in the activities and discussions contributed to a most worthwhile and enriching experience for all involved.
I extend my sincere thanks to Mr David Eyles for his outstanding organisation and facilitation of the retreat, and to the many staff who generously supported the students throughout the week. I also acknowledge with gratitude Bishop Columba, who spent the entire week accompanying the students, and Fr Harry, who joined the first group. Their presence and guidance helped create a reflective and faith-filled environment that greatly enriched the experience for our young people.
As our Year 12 students continue their final year at the College, it is our hope that the reflections and insights gained during the retreat will encourage them to approach the year ahead with confidence, gratitude and a deep sense of hope for the future.
May St Marcellin Champagnat and Mary our Good Mother continue to watch over our community.
Deputy Principal | Mr Simon Martino
Deputy Principal | Mr Simon Martino
As we pass the halfway mark of Term 1, our students have continued to start the year with positivity and purpose. I would like to take this opportunity to remind families of The Red Bend Way and our ongoing College focus on students being well prepared for learning.
The Red Bend Way
The Red Bend Way encourages students to adopt an attitude that is Ready to Learn, invites them to be Active and Empowered Learners, and inspires them to be Marist in all they do. These expectations are visible in the student handbook and displayed in each classroom. These expectations support students in developing strong learning routines, positive relationships, and a sense of pride in their contributions to College life.
Attendance
This term has seen a significant improvement in student attendance, and I thank our families for their ongoing support in this important area. Attendance promotes consistent engagement in learning and is essential for every student’s progress and wellbeing.
Research shows that even small amounts of absenteeism can accumulate and impact student learning progress. For this reason, attendance below 90% places a student at an educational risk. We remain committed to working in partnership with families to support strong and consistent attendance for every student.
How can you help?
Plan holidays and family events for non-school days.
Try to schedule appointments for the end of the school day
Make sure your child attends school every day unless they are ill.
Ensure your child has a good routine before school, including sleep practices.
How can we help?
Teachers show a genuine interest in your child’s wellbeing and future success by building positive relationships.
House Coordinators monitor and support students with their academic and wellbeing needs.
College Counsellors are available to support any mental health concerns your child may be facing.
We have an obligation to record student attendance as approved or unapproved. An absence is recorded as unapproved if the reason for the student not being at school does not meet the following criteria;
being sick, or having an infectious disease
having an unavoidable medical appointment
exceptional or urgent family circumstance (e.g. attending a funeral)
If you have any questions about attendance please discuss with your child's House Coordinator.
Pick Up and Drop off of students
Please remember that the circle drive operates as a one‑way system: enter from the oval side and exit on the main office side. Recently, some vehicles have been exiting via the oval side, which goes against the traffic flow and creates a safety risk. We also remind families that vehicles must not drive onto the oval to pick up or drop off students.
SEQTA Engage
Thank you to the families who have already registered for SEQTA Engage. Your prompt engagement is greatly appreciated.
For families who have not yet enrolled, we will be sending out another invitation at the beginning of Week 7. Once you receive your SEQTA Engage email, please refer to the attached “How‑to Guide” for step‑by‑step instructions on completing your registration.
If you experience any difficulties or require further assistance, please contact the College and we will be happy to support you.
Our Parent Information Evening shared important information for our families in relation to learning and wellbeing. This evening was recorded and if you were unable to attend, I encourage you to watch the recordings to access important information about your child/ren's learning for 2026.
Click here to access the recordings.
Winter Uniform
The end of the term is fast approaching, and it is important that we begin preparing for Term 2. Families are reminded that Term 2 marks the commencement of the formal Winter Uniform.
We encourage families to check their child’s winter uniform and, if needed, visit one of our uniform suppliers:
Worklocker Parkes – 229 Clarinda Street, Parkes
Gunns Menswear – 83 Rankin Street, Forbes
Please ensure uniforms are purchased and ready for the start of Term 2. Please allow time for delivery or sizing needs, particularly as this is a busy period for suppliers. If you have any questions regarding the Winter Uniform, please contact the College. To support of families we have created a uniform guide: RBCC Uniform Guide
Upcoming Events Term 1
25 March – ACE Awards Assembly
27 March - Interschools Cup
30 March – Grandparents Day
1 April – Holy Week Assembly
1 April – Cross Country
1 April – Colour Run
1 April - Last Day of Term 1
Director of Mission | Mr David Eyles
Director of Mission | Mr David Eyles
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM
A Year 12 student spoke eloquently at last week’s assembly about her recent Baptism, and the journey that led her to take this step. Students were then invited to consider participating in the College Sacramental program
In consultation with Bishop Columba, and the parish priest of Forbes parish, Fr Arthur Givney, we would like to invite parents to consider enrolling your students in a sacramental program that can be undertaken here at Red Bend under the guidance of our chaplain Fr Harry Phillips and Director of Mission Mr David Eyles.
We anticipate interested families may come from a variety of backgrounds and a diversity of past experiences with parish life (or none.)
We hope to begin a program during this Lent, with an aim to Baptise, or confirm, or receive first Eucharist etc in the Easter season next term.
When considering if you would like your child to participate in this sacramental program, parents should note that the Sacraments of Initiation are a pathway into the faith and into the life of a parish.
Please submit this Expression of Interest to enrol your child in the program this Lent. Please feel free to contact Mr Eyles for more details.
AUSTRALIAN MARIST SOLIDARITY
Our 2026 AMS Ambassadors joined their peers from Marist schools across Australia last week for an online forum. Two Year 12 students, Chloe and Gabriella along with Brock and Georgia from Year 10 spoke with Br Neville Solomon FMS (Interim Executive Director of Solidarity) and Milika Nation (Communications & Engagement Coordinator) from AMS. They also engaged in a discussion with students from the Instituto Catholico Para Formacao De Professores (ICFP) - a Marist administered Catholic Teacher’s College that offers an accredited Bachelor of Teaching and Bachelor of Education. ICFP is the only tertiary institution outside of the capital city Dili, and one of only two providers of primary education teacher formation in Timor Leste.
Red Bend Catholic College undertakes fundraising to support the ICFP and other projects of Australian Marist Solidarity. Families can learn more about this branch of our Marist Family by visiting https://www.australianmaristsolidarity.org/
Pictured: Our 2026 Red Bend AMS Ambassadors engaged in conversation with students from the Instituto Catholico Para Formacao De Professores (ICFP)
THURSDAY FUNDRAISING BBQs
Our weekly sales of Bacon and Egg burgers for good causes are underway. Bacon and Egg Burgers are on sale each Thursday morning for $5. All funds raised go to a variety of causes such as Project Compassion (see below) Australian Marist Solidarity, Vinnies and occasionally a Red Bend Sporting trip.
PROJECT COMPASSION
This Lent, our school community is invited to be a part of something incredible. Once again, we are called to stand hand in hand with thousands of others across the country and Unite Against Poverty by supporting Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion.
Last year, Red Bend Catholic College was a part of a nationwide movement that raised over $10 million to bring opportunity and change to vulnerable communities across the world. This year, with your support, we hope to have an even greater impact.
By taking home a Project Compassion donation box this year, or by donating Online at: projectcompassion.org.au or by phone at: 1800 024 413.
via the QR code below, you’ll be answering the Gospels’ call to care for our global family and walk alongside the most vulnerable. Your generosity will enable Caritas Australia to provide life-changing support to communities facing poverty, food insecurity, lack of education and water shortages, while building resilience against future challenges.
Together, through faith and action, we can bring hope and opportunity to those most in need.
Director of Learning & Teaching | Mrs Deborah Wheeldon
Director of Learning & Teaching | Mrs Deborah Wheeldon
NAPLAN
After a slight delay with a national technical issue with the platform, NAPLAN has started this week with both Year 7 and Year 9 students completing the writing and reading tests. Students will sit the conventions of language and numeracy tests next week. Parents are encouraged to ensure that students come prepared with a set of headphones with a jack (no wireless headphones please) and a plastic drink bottle. For students who have been away there will be catchup times. Please encourage your child/ren to listen to the daily notices for times and location.
GOAL SETTING, ORGANISATION AND TIME MANAGEMENT
In the past week or so all students have attended a session on assessments and goal setting (some year groups will be completing this next week). These presentations can be found in your child’s share drive. Students have listened to reasons why goal setting is important and they have then completed their own personal goals for each subject in SEQTA. Parents using SEQTA Engage should be able to view these goals and discuss them with their child. These goals will be reviewed early in Term 3 to check in and see how they are progressing.
As assessments are now starting to be handed out in all year levels, students are encouraged to start them as soon as possible, ask questions and seek support if needed. Please contact the class teacher or the faculty coordinator if you have any concerns or questions. The study centre is a great way to get some extra support on these assessments and to ensure students are as prepared as possible.
STAFF PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
Last Friday, all teaching and diverse learning staff were involved in a professional learning opportunity. The focus being on enhancing the reading and writing of our students through explicit differentiated teaching. The day was facilitated by the Independent Schools NSW Education Consultant: Teaching and Learning, Megahan Hird. Teachers have come away with new strategies to use in the classroom to support and build reading and writing at Red Bend.
Director of Boarding | Mr Chris Douglass
Director of Boarding | Mr Chris Douglass
It has been another busy and positive period in our boarding community. The EXEAT was enjoyed by all and the chance to relax and refresh at home for boarders. Thanks must go to all the staff that helped with the departures, arrivals and all in between that made the EXEAT process run smoothly.
Recently, a group of our boarders travelled to the Borenore field days site to attend the Caravan and Camping Expo. The trip was a great opportunity for students to see a wide range of outdoor equipment, caravans and camping set ups.
Our boarders also took part in Clean Up Australia Day, helping to collect rubbish and tidy the area around the Ski Dam in Forbes. The students approached the morning with great enthusiasm and worked hard to make a positive contribution to the local environment.
A special mention should also go to several students who represented the College in equestrian events over the weekend. Not all boarders, but all part of our fantastic college Equestrian Team. They enjoyed success at their respective competitions, both in Albury and Sydney. All three students continue to “do good quietly,” representing the College with sportsmanship and making us proud, in their chosen sport of equestrian.
This coming weekend we will travel to Bathurst to watch the Penrith Panthers play Cronulla Sharks. Last year I wrote about how special it was that we were watching Billy (ex-boarding student playing with Penrith) on television in the dorms. Well this time, we go one better - we will be watching him play in person at Carrington Park. A huge congratulations to Billy and his family that will be there cheering him on.
Congratulations to our recent recipients of Boarding Awards for a positive contribution to the Boarding community - canteen vouchers are coming your way, thank you for all that you do for your peers and staff alike.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
Red Bend is hosting the annual Grandparents' Morning Tea on Monday 30 March 2026 starting at 9.20am. All grandparents are invited to attend, especially those of our current Year 7 students, who might not have been on a tour of the College yet. Students are able to ask another family member or a close family friend, if Grandparents are not able to attend.
Students without guests will be invited to join in with another family group.
Guests are invited to arrive at 9.20am and the morning will conclude at 11.30am.
Please RSVP by completing this the RSVP form.
Each interview will be limited to 5 minutes. To make an appointment, please access the parent portal via the college website https://redbend.cc/PTI or via the School Stream app. The Parent/Teacher link will be available from Tuesday 17th March until Monday 20th April.
If you are unable to access the internet to make bookings, please contact the ICT department at the College on 68522000 or email it-support@redbendcc.nsw.edu.au who will facilitate the procedure for you.
Study
Study
Study Centre
Study Centre has started again for the year. This is a great way to get homework and assessments completed, ask for help from staff and also a quiet place to get some study done. Please see below the times available as well as the subjects that students may get specific help on.
Transport is provided to Forbes and Parkes each afternoon at 4.30pm on Tuesday and Thursday and 5pm on Monday and Wednesday.
Study Centre takes place in the Marcellin Library and Resource Centre. Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 are encouraged to come along to the extended study (8pm) on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Dinner is provided to those that stay late.
Forms can be completed on the School Stream App.
If your child/ren have indicated that they are coming for the whole term, could you please call the College or email myself at dlt@redbendcc.nsw.edu.au if they will not be attending on a specific day or week so transport/supervision can be organised.
House Report
House Report
BASIL HOUSE
Our Year 12 students have begun the term with genuine purpose and maturity, setting a strong tone for the rest of Basil House. Their commitment to being Ready to Learn, living out the Marist values, and acting as Active and Empowered Learners has been evident in everything they’ve taken on. From their initiative and leadership during the House Swimming Carnival to their wholehearted participation in the Year 12 Retreat Week, they have shown what it means to lead by example. Their presence, attitude and willingness to step forward have already shaped the culture of our House this year, and we are incredibly proud of the standard they continue to set.
Across Basil House, expectations remain simple: wear the uniform with pride, arrive each day Ready to Learn, and treat others with kindness and consideration. Our Tuesday reading focus in Pastoral Care is building strong habits that support learning across all subjects. Thank you to every student for your efforts so far this term — I hope you enjoyed your exeat weekend and feel recharged. Our House attendance currently sits at 91%, a fantastic achievement we want to keep building on.
We have also launched our new Basil House Hero Initiative, developed by our amazing House Captains. This is to celebrate the people who make our House stronger through effort, participation and character. Recipients receive a medallion supplied by one of our very own creative students, Brock & a certificate to recognise their efforts. Each month, we highlight achievements in all areas. Congratulations to our Week 5 recipients: Ruby for Sporting Excellence, Cameron for Being Kind, and Spencer for living the Red Bend Way. Their contributions remind us that participation, courage and commitment matter just as much as winning.
As always, thank you for your ongoing support of Basil House and the wonderful young people who make our community what it is. If at any stage you have concerns about your child’s wellbeing, learning, friendships or overall experience at school, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Open communication helps us work together to ensure every student feels supported, valued and ready to thrive. I am always available for a conversation, a check‑in, or to help connect your child with the right support.
I am incredibly proud of the way Basil students have begun the year, and I look forward to continuing this journey with you and your families as we guide them through a positive, successful and joy‑filled 2026.
Mr Hanrahan - Basil House Coordinator
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