In this newsletter:
- Principal’s message
- Mr Andrews Almanac
- Carramar highlights with Mrs Stockton-Rice
- Parenting tip from Mr Gilchrist
- Dates for your diary
Principal’s message
This term has been alive with energy and rich experiences, as our young people embraced opportunities to grow, connect and create lasting memories.
With Term 3 now drawing to a close, we reflect with pride on our Year 12s who graduate next week. I want to acknowledge not only the effort they have put into their final year, but the resilience and character they have shown along the way.
We have also celebrated the extraordinary talents and achievements of students at our Arts and Sports Awards Assemblies. These occasions remind us of the vibrancy of school life beyond the classroom, and the many ways our students shine.
With Year 8 students currently on the Lou Morrison Kimberley Tour, and Year 10 and 11 students soon departing for the French Tour, we celebrate the spirit of adventure that continues to shape our School community.
Looking ahead to the final term of 2025, I wish all families a safe, joyful and restorative break.
Take care and God bless,
Donella Beare, Principal
Mr Andrews’ Almanac
As Djilba unfolds across Carramar, we find ourselves in a season of transition—both in nature and in our school community. Djilba, the Noongar season of early spring, brings cool mornings, and warming days, after what has felt to me like a prolonged winter. The bush has begun to stir: wattles bloom, magpies sing, and yoorns (bobtail lizards) emerge to bask in the sun. The shrugging-off of winter is not just felt in the air, but in the energy of our campus.
For me, Flying Ant Day, (as I call it), is the first hint that the season is changing. You may have noticed it. This natural event occurs when thousands of winged ants take to the skies from subterranean nests in synchronised swarms in what is known as a nuptial flight. It’s a sign of warming soil and rising humidity – nature’s cue that spring is near. For me, it’s a way-marker to longer, finer days and a reminder of the intricate rhythms of the land.
This term, we also mark a significant moment in our school’s rhythm: the farewell to our Year 12s. Their final days on campus are filled with reflection, celebration, and anticipation. They leave behind a legacy of leadership, friendship, and growth. The void that they leave makes space for new voices to rise.
Stepping into that space are our newly appointed House Captains. These young leaders bring fresh energy and vision, ready to guide their peers through the seasons ahead. Just as Djilba prepares the land for the abundance of Kambarang, our Captains prepare our community for the next chapter—with courage, care, and commitment.
If you detect a note of giddy optimism in my article, it may be because the end of this term signals the commencement of my long service leave, which I will take for the duration of Term 4. In the Secondary School, we are blessed to have our Deputies Mrs Sarah Stockton-Rice and Mr Craig Thomas as stewards in my absence and of course our Principal, Mrs Donella Beare who as usual oversees St Stephen’s School across our two campuses. I am very grateful to them and for the time ahead of me.
Bennet Andrews, Head of Campus
Carramar highlights
with Mrs Sarah Stockton-Rice, Deputy Head of Secondary
The final weeks of Term 3 are an awesome time across our Secondary School.
We’ve seen countless productions brought to life by both our Junior and Senior students, showcasing creativity, collaboration, and courage on stage. Thank you to Miss Doyle, Miss Mitchell, Mr Walker and many others for their tireless work in bringing these events to fruition — your dedication has made a lasting impact.
A special shout-out also goes to Mr Walker for launching Friday Live Music sessions. These have revealed the incredible musical talent within our student body and creating a fantastic Friday lunchtime atmosphere for all.
Our House Debating competition also sparked lively discussion, with students tackling the topic: “Should teachers be graded by their students?” The debates were thoughtful, engaging, and often humorous — a great showcase of student voice and respectful discourse.
Today, our Year 7 students are off to explore the Boola Bardip Museum of WA, diving into the rich history and culture of our state. Meanwhile, the Year 11 Outdoor Recreation class embarks on a four-day expedition to Collie, where they’ll challenge themselves, build resilience, and connect with nature.
Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for the Year 12 Graduation events next week — a time to celebrate the journey and achievements of our graduating students. Highlights will include:
- Laser Blaze for some light-hearted, competitive fun
- The Year 12 Rainbow Run, organised by our Year 11 Propel Leadership students
- The elegant Graduation Dinner at Fraser’s, Kings Park
- Grad’s Day, a reflective celebration of everything our Year 12s have contributed to St Stephen’s School over the years.
For the Year 12 students sitting exams over the October break, we wish you all the very best in your studies. We know you and your teachers have worked hard to get to this point. Extra effort over the next few weeks will pay off.
Year 11 River Cruise
Sport Assembly
Junior Production
Friday Music
Parenting tip
with Mr Russell Gilchrist, Duncraig Deputy Head of Secondary – Care
Cyber Safety for Parents: Protecting Your Family Online
In today’s digital world, our children are growing up immersed in technology. From smartphones and tablets to gaming consoles and social media, the internet is a central part of their lives. While it offers incredible opportunities for learning and connection, it also presents risks that parents must actively manage. Cyber safety is no longer optional—it’s essential. This term Kirra Prendergast, a recognised expert on online safety, came and spoke to our parent body about the upcoming social media law changes taking effect in December 2025 and practical ways that we as parents can help our kids navigate these online challenges. Below are some tips to consider.
1. Start with Open Conversations
The foundation of cyber safety is communication. Talk to your children regularly about their online experiences. Ask what apps they use, who they interact with, and what they enjoy doing online. These conversations build trust and make it easier for children to come to you if something feels wrong.
2. Set Clear Boundaries & Consequences
Establish rules around screen time, appropriate websites, and social media use. Use parental controls to restrict access to harmful content but remember—technology is only part of the solution. Your guidance and involvement are what truly make the difference.
3. Teach Critical Thinking
Help your children develop the skills to spot suspicious links, fake profiles, and misleading information. Encourage them to think before they click, share, or respond. Cyberbullying, scams, and online predators often rely on emotional manipulation—awareness and scepticism are powerful tools.
4. Model Responsible Online Behaviour
Children learn by watching. Practice safe online habits yourself: use strong passwords, avoid oversharing, and respect others’ privacy. Demonstrate that being responsible online is just as important as being responsible offline.
5. Stay Informed and Involved
Technology evolves rapidly. Stay updated on the latest apps, games, and trends your children might encounter. Join parent forums, read trusted blogs, or attend school workshops on digital safety. The more informed you are, the better you can guide and protect your family.
Cyber safety is about preparation, protection, and partnership. By staying engaged and informed, parents can empower their children to navigate the digital world safely and confidently. It’s not about fear—it’s about building resilience and responsibility in a connected world.
COMMUNITY NOTICES
Dates for your diary
Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates and you can check full details of the 2025 term dates on our website.
Please note the following key dates for Term 3 in the 2025 academic year:
- Friday 19 September – Year 10 and Year 11 French Tour begins
- Wednesday 24 September – Year 12 Grads Dinner
- Thursday 25 September – Year 12 Grads Day
- Friday 26 September – Term 3 Ends
- Saturday 27 September to Sunday 26 October – ATAR Practical Exam, Drama, Music, Phys Ed Studies
- Friday 3 October to 10 October – Year 12 Mock Exams
- Tuesday 14 October – Term 4 begins
- Monday 20 October to 22 October – Year 9 OED Camp
- Monday 27 October to 28 October – Year 10 OED Camp
- Wednesday 29 October to 20 November – SCSA ATAR Written Exams
- Wednesday 29 October to 31 October – Year 8 Camp
- Wednesday 5 November to 7 November – Year 9 Camp
- Monday 3 November – Year 7 and 10 Immunisation Catch Ups
- Tuesday 4 November – Kambarang Showcase
- Wednesday 5 November to 11 November – Fusion
- Thursday 13 November – Year 10 Spring Soiree
- Monday 17 November to 19 November – Captains Challenge
- Friday 21 November – Year 11 Vietnam Service Learning Tour Departs
- Monday 24 November to Friday 28 November – Year 10 Work Experience
- Monday 24 November – Instrumental Recital: Percussion & Bass Guitar
- Tuesday 25 November – Instrumental Recital: Brass, Flute, Wind & Vocal
- Wednesday 26 November – Instrumental Recital: Strings
- Thursday 27 November – Instrumental Recital: Piano
- Friday 28 November – Year 7-9 Social Justice Day
- Monday 1 December – Presentation Night
- Friday 5 December – Term 4 Ends