NEWSLETTER Term 4 - Week 4 - 7 November

Two significant events are on the horizon for the College. The first of these is next week when the Bishop of Broken Bay, the Very Reverend Anthony Randazzo, will bless, and the Chair of the Governing Council of Good Samaritan Education, Ms Moira Najdecki, will officially open the refurbished MSB Centre and the new Administration and TAS classroom facilities. As part of that intimate ceremony held in the Convent Chapel next Friday afternoon, many of the previous Sisters of the Good Samaritan who were novices at the Convent will be returning, some for the first time in decades.

The second event is the celebration of a milestone for the College. In 2026, we celebrate 60 years since the College opened its doors to educate young women. In preparation for that event, this week we had some special guests – students from that very first class who regaled us with the stories of being taught by the sisters and those special first years in the life of a school. Their stories were recorded for posterity by the Marketing Team and we look forward to launching those stories to the community next year.

2026 also looms large for some excited 11-year-olds who have their Orientation Day on Friday 21 November. We look forward to welcoming not only the current Year 6 students but especially their parents to the Orientation Evening on Tuesday 18 November. It will be an opportunity to build relationships in our Houses and schedule some organised events to establish new friendships over the Christmas break.

For our current parents, the Parents and Friends Association Annual General Meeting will be held next Monday. We have a wonderfully supportive group of parents on a variety of committees who support the school in a range of endeavours (including the annual Christmas Gingerbread House Decoration Afternoon coming up on 22 November!). I hope you are able to make it to the AGM and that you would consider attending our four meetings a year and volunteering to be a helper by joining a committee.

At the end of last week, we celebrated World Teachers' Day. As always, our staff were good sports, taking up the annual hat theme with enthusiasm and combining it with All Hallows celebrations with a “Scary Hat”.

Teachers do far more than deliver lessons—they inspire curiosity, nurture potential, and create safe spaces where learning comes alive. They adapt to each student's needs, celebrate small victories, and persist through challenges with unwavering dedication. In our College community, we see this commitment daily.

This year's World Teachers' Day theme reminds us that quality education begins with quality educators. Our teachers are the heart of our Good Samaritan Benedictine charism, embodying our Benedictine values and combining expertise with empathy, rigour with encouragement. It appears a cliché but the reality is parent feedback tells us that teachers don't just prepare students for exams—they prepare them for life, equipping them with critical thinking skills, confidence, and the courage to pursue their dreams and this is one of the aspects of the College that is most highly valued by our families.

So, to every teacher at Bennies: thank you. Your impact extends far beyond the classroom walls and echoes through the lives you touch. You are appreciated, valued, and essential to everything we achieve together.

Michael Hanratty
Principal

From the Dean of Mission

We have had an incredible week, with a flurry of activities, as our House Captains, with the support of their Heads of House, have led their House in raising money and awareness for their House Partner as part of Mission Week. They have done a fabulous job, employing all sorts of creative ideas. The money they have raised will go to the Good Samaritan Foundation, who support the work of the Sisters. This money will make a significant difference for the communities who receive it.

Tragically, the Good Samaritan ministries in the Philippines, which two of our Houses support, were hit by a Category 4 Typhoon earlier in the week, resulting in great devastation.

Along the coastline of Boulevard, a squatter settlement where many of the families, staff and scholarship students that the Sisters work with and support have had their homes destroyed. Entire sections of the shoreline community have been swept away. Sr Grace sent the Foundation a short video documenting the impact.

Please view: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/_noXoQ_mhsI

The Good Samaritan Kinder School has also been impacted, with families facing significant damage, displacement, and loss of essential resources. Many are now seeking temporary shelter in local schools, shopping centres, and the Sisters' Outreach Centre. They have limited access to food, clean water, and basic supplies . The Foundation is urgently raising funds to help families rebuild their lives. If you would like to support this work, a donation can be made through their website:
https://good-samaritans.raiselysite.com/

Last night, a group of students, Mrs Wells, and I had the privilege of attending a Sydney Alliance Community listening session. The Sydney Alliance brings together diverse community organisations, unions, religious organisations and schools to advance the common good and achieve a fair, just and sustainable city. To achieve this, they provide opportunities for people to have a say in decisions that affect them, their families and everyone working and living in Sydney. The Sydney Alliance is a non-party political organisation. For our students, it was a powerful opportunity to have their voices heard and to see firsthand the importance of civic engagement and collaboration in shaping a more just and compassionate society. The girls were wonderful ambassadors not only for Bennies but for young people in general. The Epping Carlingford Parish is a member of the Alliance, and it was lovely to catch up with Fr Jim McKeon at the end of the meeting, too. We are looking forward to debriefing next week and working out our next steps.

We are fast coming toward the end of the term and the end of the year. It always amazes me how quickly it comes around! Homerooms now have their family to gather donations for House of Welcome Hampers, and we will be looking for families to volunteer to deliver these shortly. There are still many opportunities for students and families to be involved in making a difference for others.

Kerry Bailey
Dean of Mission

Curriculum News

Year 9 Geography Excursion

As part of their Environmental Change and Management unit, Year 9 Geography students recently explored the marine environment of Sydney Harbour, focusing on how human activities are shaping and impacting this unique ecosystem.

During the fieldwork at Chowder Bay, students engaged in a range of hands-on learning experiences, including:

Citizen science data collection to investigate the amount of microplastic particles on the beach.
Water quality testing to monitor the health of stormwater entering the bay.
Topographic map analysis to understand the link between landforms and stormwater runoff.

Students were commended on their curiosity and engagement on the day. This fieldwork provided the opportunity for students to collect primary data to enable them to develop their geographic knowledge and skills to real-world environmental challenges such as plastic pollution, water quality, and sustainable urban development.

The excursion also highlighted the importance of inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and develop evidence-based conclusions about human impacts on the environment.

This valuable fieldwork experience deepened students’ understanding of how human activity continues to influence Sydney Harbour’s natural systems—and how informed management and innovation can support the protection of this vital marine environment for future generations.

Colleen Burke
HSIE Teacher

Year 9 Reflection Day at St Patrick’s Cathedral

On 22 and 24 October, Year 9 students travelled to St Patrick’s Cathedral in Parramatta to celebrate Catholic Mission and take part in a special Workers’ Mass. It was a wonderful day which allowed us to pause and reflect on the History of the Australian Catholic Church and how we as young people can be beacons of hope for the future of the Church.

Throughout the day, we participated in workshops led by Irene Baik from Catholic Mission. She spoke to us about the inspiring story of Blessed Carlo Acutis, the five important aspects of living a fulfilling life, and the challenges faced by people in developing countries like Zambia. Learning from the examples of saints encouraged us to think about how we can live with more kindness, gratitude, and faith in our own lives.

Students who attended on Wednesday also had the amazing opportunity to meet Bishop Edwin Mulandu from the Diocese of Mpika in Zambia. He shared stories about his ministry and the struggles faced by communities in his country. A highlight was being able to spend time having lunch and an ice block with the Bishop. His talk helped us understand how our support for Catholic Mission initiatives like Socktober can make a real difference in the lives of others around the world.

We also had time to explore the beautiful Cathedral and learn more about its features and meaning. Seeing the crucifix above the altar and the statue of Pope John Paul II surrounded by children reminded us of Christ’s love and the call for young people to continue spreading faith and hope in our communities.

Overall, our Reflection Day was a really special experience. We are grateful to our teachers for organising the day, to Irene for her inspiring workshops, and to Bishop Mulandu for sharing his story with us. It was a day full of learning, reflection, and gratitude and one that helped us grow in faith and understand how we can live out our school’s value of Hospitality in the wider world.

If you would like to learn more about Catholic Mission please see their website https://www.catholicmission.org.au/

Written by the Year 9 Ministry Class

From the Dean of Wellbeing

The Miss Honeys of Our Schools: Why Great Teachers Matter More Than Ever

I teach a Year 10 class and they recently asked me if I became a teacher because I had a Miss Honey in my life. In Roald Dahl’s Matilda, Miss Honey stands as a beacon of kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength. She’s the kind of teacher who sees the potential in every child, especially in Matilda—a gifted girl overlooked by her family and misunderstood by most adults. Miss Honey’s gentle encouragement and belief in Matilda’s abilities not only transform the young girl’s life but also remind us of the profound impact a good teacher can have.

What Makes a Teacher Like Miss Honey So Powerful?

Miss Honey doesn’t just teach; she nurtures. She listens, she advocates, and she models the kind of emotional intelligence and integrity that children need to see in adults. Research consistently shows that teachers who act as positive role models can significantly influence students’ academic outcomes, self-esteem, and long-term aspirations.

According to a study published in Educational Psychology (source), students who perceive their teachers as role models are more likely to engage in learning, show resilience, and develop a stronger sense of belonging at school. These relationships are especially critical for students facing adversity—just like Matilda.

Role Models in Schools: More Than Just Academic Guides

Teachers like Miss Honey embody what researchers call “relational pedagogy”—the idea that learning is deeply connected to relationships. A 2020 report from the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) highlights that strong teacher-student relationships are linked to improved student wellbeing, motivation, and achievement.

Moreover, role models in schools help shape students’ values, attitudes, and aspirations. They show what it means to be compassionate, curious, and courageous. In a world where children are bombarded with conflicting messages, the steady presence of a teacher who believes in them can be life-changing.

What Can We Learn from Miss Honey?

Miss Honey teaches us that:

Empathy is powerful: Understanding a child’s emotional world is just as important as teaching content.
Belief is transformative: When a teacher believes in a student, it can unlock potential that even the student didn’t know they had.
Courage matters: Standing up for what’s right—even quietly—can make a lasting difference.

A Call to Celebrate Our Miss Honeys

As educators, parents, and community members, we must continue to champion and support the Miss Honeys in our schools. Their work often goes unseen, but its impact echoes for years. Let’s invest in teacher wellbeing, professional development, and recognition—because when teachers thrive, students do too.

And yes, as I told 10 History 8, I had many Miss Honey’s in my life, and that is why I became a teacher.

Sheri Upsiri
Dean of Wellbeing

Student Safety Reminder

To ensure the safety of all students and members of our wider community, we kindly remind you not to drop off your daughters on Beecroft Road.

Beecroft Road is a busy thoroughfare, and stopping there poses significant risks to student safety and disrupts traffic flow. Instead, please use Loftus Road as a drop off point which allows for easy access to the overpass, to keep our students safe.

Your cooperation helps us maintain a safe and respectful environment for everyone - students, staff, and our neighbours.

Thank you for your ongoing support in keeping Mount St Benedict College a safe place to learn and grow.

Warm regards,
Sheri Upasiri

College News

Amended School Start Time for Years 8-11 on Thursday 27 November 2025

The College is hosting our Annual Year 7 Student Learning Conferences until 10.40am on Thursday 27 November.

As this event involves all teachers (as Homeroom Mentors), all students from Years 8 to 11 will have a later start on Thursday, 27 November. School will commence on this day for Years 8-11 at 10.45am with Homeroom.

There will be supervision available for any student (Years 8-11) onsite at the College from 8.30am – 10.45am in the Library. Students will be able to continue with student-directed learning.

The Bennies Metro Shuttle (this is a free service) will operate additional services on this morning from Cherrybrook Metro Station to the College:

7.05am, 7.15am, 7.25am, 7.35am, 7.45am, 7.55am, 8.05am, 8.15am, 8.25am, 8.35am, 8.45am, 8.55am, 9.05am, 9.15am, 9.25am, 9.35am, 9.45am, 9.55am, 10.05am, 10.15am

10.25am – Final Service.

The Bennies Private Buses - BB1, BB2 and BB3 will run as per their normal morning schedule.

Year 7 students must arrive at school for an 8:35 am start and will conclude their Student Learning Conferences by 10:40 am, after which they will also join their Homeroom.

We appreciate your understanding as we celebrate the completion of the first year at the College for our youngest members of the Bennies Community and their parents.

Ms Melissa Bowering
Acting Dean of Learning Science

CDCNSW Hills District School Bus Changes commencing Mon 17 November 2025

CDCNSW have advised that the following two changes to school morning bus services for Mount St Benedict College will commence Monday 17 November 2025, and include:

Morning Route 3103 removed, replaced by route 640.

Morning Route 3160 timing updated, and path change after Oakhill College.

The updated timetable is here.

If you need to order an Opal card please click on the following link (if you do not have one already):

https://transportnsw.info/tickets-fares/eligibility-concessions/school-student-travel

If you would like to order a replacement Opal Card this is the link to use:

https://transportnsw.info/tickets-fares/eligibility-concessions/school-student-travel/replace-your-school-opal-card-or-travel

We remind students they must have a valid Opal card to travel on all public transport, and must tap on and off morning and afternoon.

Congratuations to Charlie

Charli J. (Year 9) has just returned from the UK where she played Futsal in the AFA U14 Girls Australian team.

She played tournaments in Scotland, England and Wales. They won a few and came second in the others.

During the first week of the school holidays she also played in the AFA Nationals in Brisbane for NSW where she was selected into the U14 All Star team (top 10 girls of the tournament). This means she was automatically selected into the U15s Girls Australian team for 2026 which will tour Brazil.

Library Newsletter

The newest edition of the Library Newsletter is here. Explore the latest book arrivals, discover our featured author, and get inspired by the Genre of the Week.

Ami Seymour
College Librarian

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events
HSC Exams	Thursday 16 October - Tuesday 11 November
P&F AGM	Monday 10 November 6.30pm, MSB Centre
College Assembly* - Principal's Assembly	Tuesday 11 November
Year 8 Residential Experience	Wednesday 12 November - Friday 14 November
Year 12 Exit Day	Thursday 13 November
Year 7 2026 Parent Orientation Evening	Tuesday 18 November, 6.30pm
Year 7 2026 Cocurricular Webinar	Thursday 20 November, 6.30pm
Year 7 2026 Student Orientation	Friday 21 November
Year 11 Music Showcase	Friday 21 November, 6.00pm - 7.30pm
P&F Gingerbread House Decorating	Saturday 22 November 2-4pm Book Here
Stage 5 Curriculum Dance and Drama Showcase	Monday 24 November, 6pm - 8.30pm Book Here
Sports Academy Awards Breakfast	Tuesday 25 November 7.30am - 9.30am
College Assembly - Cocurricular*	Tuesday 25 November
Year 7 Student Learning Conferences	Thursday 27 November 8.35am - 10.45am.
Year 8 - 11 classes commence at 10.45am on this day	Thursday 27 November. This is due to the Year 7 Student Learning Conferences.
Stage 5 Music and Visual Arts Showcase	Thursday 27 November, 6pm - 7.45pm
House of Welcome Hamper Delivery Day	Saturday 29 November
End of Year Thanksgiving Eucharist, Presentation Day and End of Term Four.	Wednesday 3 December. School finishes at 1pm on this day.

To access the College calendar log in to BenniesLink (Parent Portal) Calendar.
Click here

* College Assemblies For Parents

College Assemblies are livestreamed for the MSB parent community at 9:40-10:45am on the dates specified in the schedule above. The livestream link is here.

Representative Sport

IGSA Gymnastics

Congratulations to our talented gymnasts on their outstanding performances at the IGSA Gymnastics Carnival!

We’re thrilled to announce that our team has secured the Division 3 Shield (for schools with five athletes or fewer) — an incredible achievement that reflects each student’s dedication, skill, and teamwork.

Our students achieved some fantastic individual results across multiple levels.

Alayah P – 1st in Bars and Floor, 2nd in Vault (Level 6)
Olivia C – 2nd in Bars (Level 7)
Isabella Z – 2nd in Beam (Level 8)

Congratulations again to all competitors for proudly representing our school!

CGSSSA Aquathon

On Tuesday, November 5, 16 students proudly represented the College at the CGSSSA Aquathon held at Merrylands Park and Swim Centre. It was a fantastic day of competition, and all students displayed outstanding effort, teamwork, and school spirit throughout the event.

Congratulations to all our competitors for their determination and enthusiasm on the day. Your commitment and support for one another truly reflected the values of our college community. Thank you to Miss Finegan and Miss Kelleway for supporting the team on the day.

Participants:

Ainslie. C, Aliana. E, Ava. C, Cecilia. K, Christina. L, Eve. B, Evelyn. S, Hannah. C, Holly. M, Michela. I, Olivia. G, Robyn. O, Sophie. P, Sophie. V, Tessa. K, Yeji. Y.

Darren Nosti
Sport Academy Coordinator

P & F News

P&F Gingerbread House Afternoon - Saturday 22 November

The Bennies P&F is organising a Gingerbread House Making Afternoon, for parents and daughters, bookings are now open.

This is a wonderful opportunity to meet Bennies families, particularly to welcome our Year 7 2026 families to our Bennies community. So, get a table together with Bennies friends and family and decorate gingerbread houses, or we can place you on a table.

When: Saturday 22 November
Where: College Hall
Time: 2pm - 4pm
RSVP: Tuesday 4 November

Gingerbread houses cost $37 (to take your decorated house home) or $22 to donate the decorated gingerbread house to the College's community partner, the House of Welcome
(the P&F are subsidising the remaining $15). A packet of lollies will be supplied by the P&F to each gingerbread house booking to make a suggested design. Families are welcome to bring additional lollies to add to their house decoration. Gluten free gingerbread houses are also available.

Price includes afternoon tea.

Please book here: https://www.trybooking.com/DGFPC

Year 7 2026 students and their families are also welcome.

Bookings are limited.

We hope you can join us on this fun afternoon.

Mount St Benedict College P&F Association

College Shop

Year 10 2026 Senior Uniform Outfitting

As we welcome our current Year 9 students into Year 10 as senior students in 2026, it's time for their senior summer uniform fittings.

Each House group has been assigned a fitting day. On their allocated day, students can be fitted before school, recess, and lunch.

House Senior Summer Uniform Fitting Schedule

Maredsous: Tuesday 11 November
Monte Cassino: Wednesday 12 November
Montserrat: Thursday 13 November
New Norcia: Friday 14 November
Scolastica: Tuesday 18 November
Stanbrook: Wednesday 19 November
Subiaco: Thursday 20 November
Terracina: Friday 21 November

Students have been asked to order the Senior School Summer Uniform by Tuesday 25 November.

Please note that the Uniform shop will be closed for its biyearly stock take on 2 December.

Any orders placed for collection over this time can be collected on the 3 December.

Community Notices

Light the Way This Christmas

This Advent, we invite you to join us in prayer and reflection through a series of weekly videos. Across December, we’ll light a candle and share a weekly prayer to shine a light on four key themes of Advent.

Week 1: 30 November – Justice | Week 2: 7 December - Repentance

Week 3: 14 December – Joy | Week 4: 21 December – Love

You can view each video on the dates above at: https://goodsamsfoundation.org.au/advent/

With a small gift of $5 , your family can “light a candle” and help provide education, food and care to those that need it the most.

Donate today: goodsamsfoundation.org.au/donate

Mount St Benedict College

449D Pennant Hills Rd, Pennant Hills NSW 2120

Get Directions

www.msb.nsw.edu.au

449D Pennant Hills Rd
Pennant Hills NSW 2120
AUSTRALIA

College Office

02 9980 0444

admin@msb.nsw.edu.au

Mount St Benedict College acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we learn and gather, the Dharug people. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters, sky, and community. Walk softly on Country.
Artwork: 'Marri Djirang Nura - Big Tree Country' by Leanne Watson