Welcome to Winter!

Recently my daughter and I walked the Bundageree Rainforest track in Bongil Bongil National Park. On the way back we walked along the beach, where we saw dozens of whales, blowing, breaching, and slapping the water with their tails. A pod of dolphins surprised us, surfing the waves closer into shore. It was a beautiful reminder of the sense of joy and play in God’s creation, and also a reminder of how important it is to slow down and soak in the gifts we are offered.

By the time you read this, we will have nearly reached the Winter holidays, and a much-needed rest from ironing uniforms, packing lunches, and checking homework. I know many parents will continue working, but I do hope this time allows your family some opportunities to slow down, reconnect, and nourish your spirits. Winter really is the perfect season for this. Cold, crisp mornings, that call for slow starts, hot drinks, and snuggly slippers. Cool, clear days for bushwalks, footy games, and working in the garden - or just soaking up some quiet. Hearty soups and curries, and baked desserts, warming our houses and releasing tantalising aromas as they slowly cook. Then the long, dark evenings, that lend themselves to good books, crafts, games nights, or chatting around a campfire. Next term in our chapel gatherings, all students from kindergarten right through to seniors will be examining twin themes of Creation and Justice. We will give thanks for the wonders of creation and for the special place humans have been given as caretakers and co-creators with God. We will also explore what it means to work for God’s justice, in local and worldwide human communities, and amongst the broader community of created things. As always, parents and family members are very welcome to join us for any of our worship times, or just to pop by for a cuppa and a chat.

Have a beautiful holiday - see you next term!! Blessings,

Rev Lisa

Over the past two weeks, Bishop Druitt College has had the privilege of hosting Life Education Australia and their iconic ambassador, Healthy Harold. This dynamic duo has been instrumental in imparting invaluable lessons on health and wellness to our primary students, creating a buzz of excitement and learning throughout the campus.

Life Education Australia’s programs are renowned for their interactive and engaging approach to teaching children about healthy lifestyles. Through hands-on activities, discussions, and the endearing presence of Healthy Harold, students have been immersed in topics ranging from nutrition and exercise to personal hygiene and making positive choices.

Healthy Harold, the lovable giraffe puppet, has undoubtedly stolen the hearts of our young learners. His adventures and insights have not only entertained but also educated students about the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, and nurturing their mental wellbeing. The impact of these sessions extends beyond the classroom, empowering students to make informed decisions that support their overall health.

At Bishop Druitt College, we are committed to providing holistic education that nurtures both academic excellence and personal development. The visit from Life Education Australia aligns perfectly with this ethos, equipping our students with essential life skills that will serve them well into the future.

As we reflect on the past two weeks, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Life Education Australia and Healthy Harold for their dedication and passion in educating our students. Their presence has undoubtedly left a lasting impression, and we look forward to seeing the positive effects ripple through our school community.

We encourage parents and guardians to continue the conversation at home, reinforcing the lessons learned about healthy living and wellbeing. Together, we can empower our children to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

Celebrating NAIDOC Week

NAIDOC week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It is celebrated by all Australians and is a great opportunity to recognise and learn more about the history and culture of indigenous communities.

NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. Its origins can be traced back to the Aboriginal rights movement, when on Australia Day 1938, protestors marched through the streets of Sydney to highlight the status and treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. Today, it is a week-long celebration held in July that consists of range of traditional and contemporary activities.

NAIDOC Week is an important event that helps build positive relationships between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people. It enables a deeper understanding of our differences and similarities. NAIDOC week is an opportunity for all Australians to eliminate bias and discrimination by reflecting and reconciling the wrongs of the past to facilitate hope and build a fairer future. Families are encouraged to join in and support young people in learning the significance of NAIDOC Week.

This Special Report offers suggestions on how families can celebrate NAIDOC Week together. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your Special Report https://bdc.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-celebrating-naidoc-week

SPECIAL REPORT: Smokeless Tobacco Products

The evolving nicotine landscape requires parents and caregivers to stay informed to protect young people from these emerging threats. Snus and nicotine pouches are gaining popularity among young people as smokeless tobacco (SLT) products. Both products are discreetly placed under the upper lip, allowing nicotine absorption through the gums.

Health authorities are urging proactive measures to curb this growing trend and calling on regulators to implement controls before these products become as widespread as vapes. The high nicotine levels in these products pose serious health risks, including nicotine addiction, cardiovascular disease, gum disease, tooth decay, and even nicotine poisoning. Researchers highlight the detrimental effects of nicotine on developing brains, linking its use to depression, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, and an increased risk of addiction to other drugs.

The marketing of snus and nicotine pouches targets young audiences through social media influencers, raising concerns about their increasing popularity among school students. And like vapes, they come in various flavours and strengths, with unregulated nicotine levels leading to inconsistent and misleading labelling. It is clear that SLT products contain not only nicotine, but also other chemicals with unknown long-term effects.

This Special Report will help you become aware of the potential risks of smokeless tobacco products and guide you in age-appropriate discussions with your child.

Here is the link to your Special Report https://bdc.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-smokeless-tobacco-products-au