Children’s University On-Campus Exploration Day 

An engaged group of possible future university graduates headed down to Newcastle University, Callaghan Campus last term along with 200 other local school students. We had an interesting day experiencing some of the faculties, getting a small taster of career opportunities.  

Our first activity took us to the pharmacy laboratories where we had a quiz about medications and their similarity to lollies, then we headed off for some performing. We had outstanding turtle dancers and creative skilled performers. During lunch we watched a science show where our presenters undertook experiments, the smoke donuts were a hit! Next stop was in the economics section where we honed our skills in budgeting; deciding between needs and wants. Our last task was in the languages faculty where our presenters discussed the differences between dragons in Chinese, Japanese and Korean mythology. 

Students represented our school respectfully and participated in the opportunities whilst racking up many, many steps walking around the huge campus. Everyone received a special acknowledgement sticker in their passport and a booklet to work on over the holidays. 

A huge thank you goes out to the parents who joined us for the day; driving us down and experiencing the university with us. 

A reminder that Monday’s lunchtime group begins again in Week 2. We have until the end of next holidays to keep collecting experiences and hours in our passports. 

100 Days of Kindergarten

Can you believe it? Our Kindergarten students have officially reached an exciting milestone — 100 days of school!

To mark the occasion, our clever Kinder crew embraced the fun by dressing up as wise and wonderful 100-year-olds. The celebration, held in Week 1, was full of joy and energy as students rotated through a variety of engaging, 100-themed activities, including STEM challenges, craft projects, and fitness games.

It was a day filled with laughter, learning, and unforgettable memories.

Here’s to the next 100 days of growth, discovery, and delight!

Film by the Vines

During Week 1, some of our Stage 2 and 3 students had the opportunity to participate in the Film By the Vines workshop where they learned about film making, including camera angles and techniques, storyboarding and film editing. They all really enjoyed the day, learning lots, experimenting with all the things taught and interacting with students from other schools. Over the term they are going to work on creating some films to enter into the Film by the Vines competition.

Year 6 Interrelate  

In Term 2, Year 6 students took part in the Interrelate ‘Moving into the Teen Years’ program. During the program, students developed their understanding of the physical, emotional, and social changes that occur during puberty, how these changes may affect their relationships and sense of self, and gained valuable information to help prepare for the transition to secondary school. Throughout the sessions, students demonstrated a mature and respectful approach to the learning content and represented Bellbird’s school values with pride. 

Debating

This year we have entered two debate teams for the Premier Debating Challenge. One team is called Burras and has Jayden M, Georgia A, Kaytee M, Kiara Borg and Ava Peak. The other team is called Bellas and consists of Celeste C, Hannah D, Joanna W, Alex M and Olivia C. Both teams have been working hard to learn the process of debating and have shown great improvement in each debate.  In the challenge, the teams have to debate against each other with the Bellas coming out on top. I congratulate all students on the amazing effort they have made and the time they have given to competing in the debates. We have two more debates for both teams left for this term, so I wish the teams all the best for the final round of debating. 

Maths Olympiad  

A group of Stage 3 students have proudly represented our school in the Junior Division Maths Olympiad this year. This prestigious, inter-school competition is designed to challenge and extend high potential and high achieving students in Years 5 and 6 across Australia. So far, students have completed two of the four Olympiad competitions, demonstrating enthusiasm, persistence, and strong problem-solving skills. They have embraced the opportunity to deepen their mathematical thinking and apply creative strategies to complex problems. With two competitions still to go this term, our team is excited to continue striving for excellence while enjoying the challenge.  

Year 6 Mini Fete Fundraiser 

Our Year 6 Mini Fete is just around the corner! On Thursday 15th August, Year 6 students will be hosting a fun-filled carnival-themed fundraiser to help raise money for their End of Year Farewell. 

Students across the school are invited to join in the fun, with exciting games and activities designed and run by Year 6. For just $5, each student will receive a token card allowing them to play 10 different mini fete games throughout their class session.  

Year 6 are looking forward to celebrating with the students and thank you for your support as they work towards a memorable end-of-year celebration! 

Keep your eyes peeled on SchoolBytes for further information and payment details.  

Leaders Morning Tea

Student leaders recently attended a special morning tea hosted by Cessnock City Council, where they had the privilege of hearing from guest speaker Lauren Parker, Paralympian. Lauren shared her inspiring story of achieving greatness after a life-changing setback that left her paralysed. She spoke about leadership, resilience, and the power of determination to overcome challenges and achieve our goals. Our students represented the school with pride and should be commended for their outstanding leadership.