As we move further into the 21st century, the landscape of education continues to evolve at an extraordinary pace. One of the most transformative developments in recent years has been the rise of Artificial Intelligence: a technology that is rapidly reshaping how we teach, learn, and engage with information.

AI is now embedded in tools that support personalised learning, automate administrative tasks, and provide real-time feedback to students. From intelligent tutoring systems to predictive analytics that help identify students at risk of disengagement, AI has the potential to enhance educational outcomes in ways we’ve never seen before.

At Carmel College, we are exploring how AI can support our learners—whether it's through adaptive learning platforms that tailor content to individual needs, or tools that help students refine their writing and critical thinking. These innovations can support students and teachers in focusing on fostering deep learning.

However, as powerful as AI may be, it is not a substitute for human connection. The success of a child’s education still rests on the strength of the partnership between students, parents, and teachers. AI can support learning, but it cannot replace the encouragement of a parent, the guidance of a teacher, or the curiosity of a student.

In this time of rapid change, our role as teachers and caregivers is to ensure that technology serves our values: not the other way around. We must continue to teach our young people how to think critically, act ethically, and engage compassionately with the world around them. These are qualities no algorithm can replicate.

As we embrace the opportunities AI brings, let’s also reaffirm our commitment to working together. Your involvement in your child’s learning journey, whether through conversations at home, attending school events, or partnering with teachers, remains a very powerful influence on their success.

God Bless,

Mr Reuben Chalmers

Deputy Principal

BCE First Nations Graduation Ceremony

Last week, our First Nations students were honoured to take part in the BCE First Nations Graduation Ceremony at the beautiful and sacred St Stephen’s Cathedral in Brisbane. In a moment of pride for our College community, our students were invited to dance as part of the opening ceremony — a powerful expression of culture and identity in such a significant space.

This year’s celebration recognised the achievements of more than 170 First Nations Year 12 students across Brisbane Catholic Education. It was an inspiring occasion that highlighted the strength, resilience, and leadership of these young people as they prepare to take their next steps beyond school.

We congratulate our students for their contribution to such a meaningful ceremony and celebrate with all graduating First Nations students on this milestone achievement.

Avila House Mass

On Wednesday 3 September, Avila House gathered to celebrate our patron, St Teresa of Avila, with a joyful House Mass led by Fr Krupa. The theme of the celebration was simplicity and courage, values that St Teresa embodied in her life of prayer and service.

Students played an active role in the liturgy, offering readings, music, and prayers. Each PC group also created pledges, inspired by St Teresa, as a way of committing to live with faith, courage, and kindness in their daily lives.

It was a wonderful occasion that highlighted the strong spirit of Avila House. The Mass concluded with a presentation from our marketing committee and the sharing of our House cake — a fitting celebration of our unity and patron’s example.

Year 12 Retreat – My Backpack

On Friday 22 August, our Year 12 students participated in their retreat, themed My Backpack: What do I take with me on the journey? The day invited students to reflect on how far they have come since their very first year of school, tracing the milestones, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped their journey so far.

The retreat was also a time to consider the crossroads that lie ahead and what values, strengths, and experiences they will carry with them beyond Carmel College. We extend our sincere thanks to Wayne Custodio for spending the morning with us, generously sharing his wisdom and experiences with the students. In the afternoon, Jessie Raftery and Holly Fowler led a powerful discussion on the idea of crossroads after school, encouraging Year 12s to think deeply about the decisions and opportunities that await them.

The day concluded with a creative beading activity, offering students a symbolic reminder of their companions, values, and hopes as they prepare for graduation. It was a meaningful day filled with gratitude, courage, and hope for the journey ahead.

Mrs Erin Hardy

Assistant Principal-Religious Education

NAPLAN Awards

This week I presented awards to the 10 highest performing Year 7 and 9 students for NAPLAN in 2025. Given that each of these cohorts exceeds 200 students, this is a remarkable achievement and certainly something for these students to be proud of!

We also recognised those Year 9 students who had shown the greatest improvement in their NAPLAN results since Year 7. Many of these students increased at rates far higher than the national average, demonstrating their consistent commitment to learning.

Congratulations to all of these students!

Year 7 Top 10	Year 9 Top 10	Year 9 Most Improved
Alejsha S	Aaliyah C	Andrew O
Andria M	Abbiegail S	Angus R
Ashley L	Alexander N	Ava H
Charlie K	Amelia H	Bethany M
Hannah M	Ava N	Emily S
Jake B	Emily S	Finn Z
Riley R	Finn Z	Hunter M
Sophie M	Lara C	Lara C
Thomas W	Maya W	Lucy T
Valentino R	Meghan B	Mekhi H

 *students listed alphabetically

Mr Frank Turtle

Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching 7-9

Arts Gala Success

What an incredible evening! The 2026 Arts Gala, “A Window Into Our World,” was an absolute triumph, showcasing the extraordinary talent and spirit of our Carmel College community. More than 150 Arts students graced the stage with outstanding performances, while over 100 Hospitality students delivered a superb three-course dining experience. This remarkable event was made possible only through the dedication and passion of our exceptional Arts and DTFM staff.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to every staff member who contributed to making this night unforgettable.

To our brilliant organising committee—Mrs Julia Spargo, Mrs Debra Harris, Mr Jayden Hayward, Mrs Rachel Lax, Miss Hailee Speck, and Mrs Jennifer Zuniga—your vision, creativity, and tireless efforts brought this concept to life. Thank you for your outstanding leadership.

Our dance educators—Ms Hailee Speck, Mrs Ellie Kershaw, Miss Zena Pereira, Miss Emily Dower, and Miss Alyssa Beutel—have inspired our students and elevated tonight’s program with their energy and commitment.

A special thank you to the music team: Mr Ken Chow, Mrs Anita Taylor, Mr Shaun Kohlman, Mr Ryan Gough, Mrs Morgan Cox, and Mrs Erin Hardy. Your dedication to student excellence resonates in every note performed.

To our Visual Arts and Film & TV curriculum teachers—Miss Judy Di Mauro, Miss Georgia Handly, Ms Desiree Anderson, and Mrs Jeane Nel—your mentorship and guidance have been instrumental in nurturing our students’ creativity.

Our sincere thanks go to the Hospitality staff and students who worked diligently behind the scenes, crafting tonight’s menu and ensuring flawless service. Mrs Rachel Lax, Mrs Connie Wheeler, Ms Dinesha Pillay, Mrs Allison Draycot, Ms Michelle Randell, and Ms Ali Stephens—your commitment has set a benchmark for excellence and provided invaluable learning opportunities for our students.

Additional gratitude to our event helpers and supporters, including Mrs Kelly Cough, Mrs Allison Swaby, Ms Rebecca Leber, Ms Laura Pozdena, and Mr Ryan Goleby. Your time, enthusiasm, and support have been essential to this event’s success.

Last but certainly not least, thank you to our families—parents, carers, grandparents, siblings—whose encouragement, patience, and unwavering support make it all possible. We are deeply grateful for the laughter, commitment, and sacrifices you make so our students can shine.

Here’s to another year of creativity, collaboration, and celebration of the arts at Carmel College!

Musical News

It is with great excitement that we announce the 2026 Carmel College Musical: The Wizard of Oz! In a dynamic partnership with Rockit Production, our College is set to bring this beloved classic to life on stage. Auditions will commence next week, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey for our talented students.

All interested students have been notified via College Notices and email, and are encouraged to contact Mrs Debra Harris to receive their exclusive Musical Digital Audition Pack. We look forward to witnessing incredible talent and creativity as we embark on this magical production together!

Audition Dates:

• 9 September – First Round (Song & Dance) – open to all
• 16 September – Callbacks (Invite Only)
• 7 October – Final Callbacks (Invite Only)

Rehearsals Dates:

SECA Season 1 Rehearsals

• Every Tuesday afternoon, 3:00pm–5:00pm in Civ 5, 6, and 7
• 2025 Rehearsals:
• First: Tuesday 14 October
• Last: Tuesday 25 November
• 2026 Rehearsals:
• Resume: Tuesday 3 February
• Holiday Intensive: Thursday 17 April 9am-2pm

Production performance Friday, 15and Saturday, 16May, 2026

What we offer – With most groups/ensembles coming at NO cost to our families

All Private Instrumental, Vocal, Dance, and Visual Art lessons are underway, and we are already seeing some real success stories. This year, we have the most Arts opportunities for Carmel College students that we have ever had, and our numbers are very high in all programs we offer. The Art staff are very excited for what 2025 holds for the Arts. If your student is enrolled in the Arts extra-curricular program, you will receive emails from their teacher regarding times and days of lessons and all other communication regularly. Please keep an eye on your emails for this. Please refer to the Arts Co weekly timetable below for more information.

Arts Co-Curricular Program Leader

Representative Sport

There are a couple of trials open at the moment. Please ensure your child is looking through the notices to see what trials are open.

All student forms for school representative pathways must come through the Sports Office so that we can approve leave and get appropriate principal consent to trial. Thank-you to all students who have been checking notices and following this process. We congratulate the large number of students who have found success in these trials and competitions. We do not generally receive results from State or National Championships so if students are involved, can you please send these results and photos through to our sport@carmelcollege.qld.edu.au address so that we can share this with our community.

Please check emails if your child was to attend a trial that was postponed. I have sent out a number of emails to the student and parents of those affected.

SECA Season 1 & 2 Winners

SEASON 1	SEASON 2
Indoor Soccer – Yr 7 Boys Div B – Team 2	Basketball – Yr 8 Girls Div A – Team 1
Netball – Yr 7 Girls Div C – Team 3	Basketball – Yr 9 Girls Div A – Team 1
Netball – Yr 10 Girls Div B – Team 2	Basketball – Yr 10 Boys Div A – Team 1
Oztag – Yr 7 Boys – Team 1	Touch Football – Yr 7 Girls Div A – Team 1
Volleyball – Yr 9 Girls Div A – Team 1	Touch Football – Yr 7 Girls Div B – Team 2
Volleyball – Yr 10 Girls Div B – Team 3	Touch Football – Yr 8 Girls Div A – Team 1
Chess – Mixed Yr 7-9	Touch Football – Yr 8 Boys Div A – Team 1
Theatre Sport – Mixed Yr 7-9	Touch Football – Yr 8 Boys Div B – Team 2
	Touch Football – Yr 10 Girls Div A – Team 3
	Touch Football – 13 Girls All School Division
	Touch Football - 13 Boys All School Division
	Touch Football - 15 Girls All School Division
	Touch Football - 15 Boys All School Division

Please join me in congratulating the above SECA teams on their success in our interschool sport competitions in both Season 1 and Season 2.

Information regarding SECA 2026 preferences will be released in Term 4, please keep an eye out.

SECA Athletics Summary

We demonstrated great team spirit at the SECA Athletics carnival and finished in 3^rd place overall. A massive congratulations to all students who competed on the day. A special mention to Georgia M and Isla H who received medals for placing in their respective age group champion divisions.

Schools Touch League (STL) – Touch Football

On Thursday 4September, our 13B, 13G, 15B and 15G STL Touch Football teams competed in the finals held at Redlands Touch Football. We had some outstanding results with our 15G finished 4^th, 13G finishing 3^rd, 15B losing the grand final and our 13B WINNING the grand final.

With these results, Carmel College was awarded ‘Champion School’ for 2025. This is an incredible achievement for our students and school to be recognised above schools that have excellence programs in Touch Football.

A big congratulations to all the students and our staff, Mr Lachlan Reilly, Mr Craig Wilkinson, Mr Lachlan McNaughton, Ms Coby Williamson and Mrs Kristy Wilkinson for the dedication to our Touch Football teams at Carmel College.

I look forward to sharing the success of these teams at the All Schools Touch Football Championships which is held Week 1 of Term 4. Best of luck to our teams.

Student Spotlight Achievements

Isla & Sierra H | Year 7 | Polding

Isla and Sierra recently competed at the Queensland School Sport Touch Football championships in Roma. They both displayed a maturity beyond their years showing determination and resilience in competitive and challenging moments of the carnival. The Metropolitan East Coach and Manager made comment around how Isla and Sierra had unwavering commitment to the team, demonstrated sportsmanship and respect toward oppositions and officials all throughout the whole championship. Their dedication and positive attitude are truly admirable, and we are extremely proud of their achievements.

Well done Isla and Sierra, we are proud to have you in our Carmel College community!

Chloe S | Year 8 | Romero

Chloe was selected to be part of the Redlands Under 14 Softball team. The girls competed at the U14 Queensland Softball State Championships over the Easter weekend at Redcliffe. The team played 9 games of Softball over three days and came home with a silver medal after a very exciting and close grand final. One of Chloe’s highlights of the championships was a home run at the end of day one which resulted in a win for the team in a very close game. Chloe played many positions during the tournament including back up pitcher and outfielder.

After the championship Chloe was selected in the U14 Queensland Flames training squad. The Training squad trialled and trained on 14 & 15 June at Redcliffe. Unfortunately, competition for selection was strong and Chloe wasn’t selected as a member of the Flames team to travel to nationals in January 2026. The training camp was fantastic and she learnt so much from the experience and developed friendships at the same time.

Katie S | Year 7 | Avila

Recently Katie competed at an Interclub Trampolining Competition at the State Gymnastics Centre at Chandler. Katie received a 5^th placing, Bronze medal and her very first GOLD medal. Well done Katie!

Community Opportunities

Yours in Sport,

Mrs Kristy Wilkinson
Program Leader | Sport 

Our annual Dress Up Day is just around the corner, coinciding with the last day of term.

For families who are new, this is a day when our whole community joins in by dressing up as a favourite character. This doesn’t have to be from a book - it could be inspired by a TV series, movie, or even a sports player. The goal is to get involved, have fun, and enjoy the day together.

We understand that not everyone is keen on elaborate costumes (although it’s always great to see them!), so for those who still want to participate, we’ve attached a list of simple ideas that can be created using clothes you already have at home.

We can't wait to see you all on Friday, 19 September for a special assembly in Period 1.

Teacher Librarian

Follow us at carmelcollege_library for all your library news!

R U OK? is a national suicide prevention charity and registered public health promotion that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times. Their work focuses on building the motivation, confidence and skills of the help-giver – the person who can have a meaningful conversation with someone who is struggling with life.

Thursday 11 September is R U OK?Day, but we know that whether it’s a friend, family member, partner, or colleague, the people around us go through life’s ups and downs every day. That’s why we want everyone to feel confident to check in with the people they care about and ask R U OK? Any Day.

At Carmel College, we take everyone’s mental health and wellbeing very seriously. House Leaders, Mrs Laura Steele and Mrs Coby Williamson designed and initiated the concept of “Carmel’s Got H.E.A.R.T.” to celebrate the R U OK? day and week. They joined forces with their incredible house leader colleagues, Mr Sam Leadbetter, Mr Dan Kenyon and Mr Dean Stevens and Student Wellbeing Leaders, Ms Jacqueline Weidmann and Mr Liam Lunney, and Counsellors Mrs Fiona Day and Ms Michelle Sams to create a video showing staff and students that it’s truly OK to ask others, “R U OK?”

Once again, the talented and creative mind of Mrs Steele deserves recognition, along with the acting skills of our pastoral, wellbeing, and counselling teams. The Carmel’s Got H.E.A.R.T. initiative was designed to encourage students and staff to reflect on their own mental wellbeing and to start one of the most important conversations they can have — asking and answering, “R U OK?” through fun and engaging activities.

The pastoral team put a lot of heart into creating the video that is being shown to PC groups, and they hope it brings smiles to faces and sets the tone for a week of connection, care, and community. Keep an eye on notices for each day’s events.

Overview of activities for Carmel’s Got H.E.A.R.T

We thank everyone for helping us make Carmel’s Got H.E.A.R.T. a meaningful part of R U OK? Week!

Ms Michelle Sams

Guidance Counsellor

I am Shannon Scott, and I am thrilled to join Carmel College as the leader of the VET and Pathways team. My role is to support students in their career development – helping them make informed subject selections, explore vocational education and training (VET) opportunities, and plan meaningful pathways for life after school. Whether a student’s journey leads to university, TAFE, apprenticeships, or direct employment, I am passionate about ensuring they feel confident and supported in their decisions. I feel privileged to be working alongside such dedicated staff and students in this important space.

QTAC Information Session – Tuesday, 9 September, 6pm

Next Tuesday evening at 6pm, we will host an information session for Year 12 students preparing to submit a QTAC application, and their parents/guardians. VET students who have completed a Certificate III or higher and are considering tertiary study at Diploma level or higher are also encouraged to attend, as they are eligible to apply through QTAC for many courses.

This session will cover a range of information including:

• Application preferencing strategies
• Early entry information
• How to respond to offers

Year 12 Exit Meetings

Exit meetings for Year 12 students are well underway, and students are encouraged to discuss their goals with parents and explore them together in the student’s Learning Dashboard. For those still unsure of their direction, the Explore Careers: Australian Career Quiz may be a helpful tool. Results are best used as a conversation starter, not a final answer.

QCAA External Assessment Guide

The QCAA has released the External Assessment Guide for Students. This resource explains how assessments are developed and marked, provides study tips, and outlines key dates and preparation tips. Please see the attachment for details.

Have a wonderful fortnight!

Mrs Shannon Scott

VET Pathways Leader

There is currently a wide variety of lost property items at Student Reception, including:

• Lunch boxes and bags
• Water bottles
• Uniforms
• Shoes
• Hats
• Jewellery
• Sunglasses and glasses
• Watches
• Keys
• Tech accessories and gadgets

If your child has misplaced any items this year, please encourage them to check Student Reception.

Important: Any unclaimed items will be donated to a local charity at the end of Term 3.

The Snapit Photographic Competition is an initiative organised by BCE.  Open to students from Year 7 to Year 12, the competition provides a platform to showcase your artistic talent through the medium of photography.  By participating, you can express your creativity, refine your skills and receive recognition for your work within the school community and beyond.

Click here for more information about the competition.

Dear Carmel Community,

We are looking for parents who can volunteer at our Tuckshop for 2-3 hours either fortnightly or monthly. If you're interested in lending a hand, please reach out to our Tuckshop Convenor, Mrs Belinda Greaves, by emailing sthotuckshop@carmelcollege.qld.edu.au.

The 2025 Volunteer Tuckshop Roster for Term 3 is outlined below:

Mrs Belinda Greaves

Tuckshop Convenor

Dear Parents and caregivers,

If you have siblings of current Carmel students who are in Year 4, we would like to remind you that we are accepting enrolment applications for Year 7 in 2028. We encourage you to apply online as soon as possible.

Interviews will commence in Term 2 of 2026.

For further enrolment enquiries and information, please see the College website or contact our Enrolments Secretary, Mrs Sharon Dickson on 3488 7791 or stho_enrolments@bne.catholic.edu.au 

Copyright in some materials appearing in the Carmel College Newsletter is owned by third parties and should not be used or reproduced without the authority of the third party. The links to websites or web pages are for information purposes only.

To the extent that such third-party materials are not owned by BCE, we accept no responsibility for such content.