School Captains Teagan and Tadhg proudly represented Bentleigh Secondary College at the ANZAC Day Service held at the Bentleigh RSL. Accompanied by Ms Schroder, they laid a wreath on behalf of the school community, paying their respects with dignity and pride.

This significant occasion provided our students with a meaningful opportunity to connect with Australia’s history and reflect on the importance of remembrance.

We commend Teagan and Tadhg for their respectful participation and their commitment to honouring those who have served—and continue to serve—our country.

Lest we forget.

Bentleigh Secondary College Recognised for Innovation in Learning Environment Design

We are proud to announce that Bentleigh Secondary College has been recognised as an Excellence Awardee in the 2025 Australian Education Awards, presented by The Educator, in the category of:

• Innovation in Learning Environment Design – Performing Arts Precinct

The Performing Arts Precinct at Bentleigh Secondary College is more than a building — it is a dynamic, purpose-built space that inspires creativity, collaboration, and growth. Designed to support a diverse range of performances, from intimate solo acts to large-scale productions, the precinct empowers students to explore and express their talents in an environment that seamlessly blends state-of-the-art technology with artistic innovation.

Equipped with advanced acoustic, lighting, and sound systems, the space offers a rich, immersive experience that encourages students to push the boundaries of creativity. Its flexible design supports both individual and collaborative work, catering to various performance styles and group sizes.

The precinct’s cross-disciplinary approach also prepares students for the evolving landscape of the performing arts industry, setting a new benchmark in performance-based education. By integrating creativity with cutting-edge technology, this space plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of artists, performers, and creative leaders.

This national recognition is a testament to the shared vision, dedication, and collaboration of our students, staff, and community partners. Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this outstanding facility to life!

Recognised as Excellence Awardee at the 2025 Australian Education Awards.  
We are proud to announce that Kylie Dark, Leading Teacher and Head of Middle School at Bentleigh Secondary College, has been named an Excellence Awardee at the 2025 Australian Education Awards in the category of:

• Secondary School Teacher of the Year – Government

This national recognition celebrates Kylie’s outstanding contribution to education and her dedication to creating a dynamic, inclusive, and future-focused learning environment for all students.

Kylie is a passionate educator who seamlessly integrates Mathematics, Science, and the Arts, encouraging students to make cross-disciplinary connections and develop critical thinking skills through inquiry-based and flipped learning approaches. Her innovative teaching methods inspire curiosity and foster independent, engaged learners.

Beyond the classroom, Kylie plays a key role in strengthening community connections. She has built meaningful partnerships with local organisations and schools, bringing real-world learning opportunities to Bentleigh students. Her work includes leading STEAM workshops and launching mentorship programs that expose students to cutting-edge science and technology while nurturing their confidence and creativity.

Kylie’s impact is deeply personal — she is known for her commitment to supporting every student. She tailors her approach to suit individual learning styles and needs, ensuring each learner feels valued, capable, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Congratulations, Kylie, on this well-deserved recognition of your passion, innovation, and dedication to student success.

We are delighted to share that Ms Helene Hiotis, Principal of Bentleigh Secondary College, has been recognised as an Excellence Awardee in the 2025 Australian Education Awards, presented by The Educator, in the category of:

School Principal of the Year – Government

• (Nominated by School Council President, Yvette Herft)

This national recognition is a reflection of Helene’s outstanding leadership and her unwavering commitment to building a school culture where every student, staff member, and community partner is empowered to grow and succeed.

Since her appointment as Principal, Helene has overseen the development of key facilities that have expanded learning opportunities and supported the diverse talents of our students. These include the da Vinci STEAM Centre (2019), the Sports Stadium (2020), and the Performing Arts Precinct (2024) — each a testament to her vision of creating a vibrant, inclusive, and future-focused school.

Beyond infrastructure, Helene has championed teaching and learning through initiatives such as the Buzz Academy and the Real Schools program, which promote collaboration, respectful relationships, and a culture of excellence across our college.

Helene’s deep belief in knowing, supporting, and inspiring every student has created a nurturing environment where individuals feel seen, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Her leadership continues to strengthen staff capacity and foster meaningful connections between students, teachers, and families.

Under Helene’s guidance, Bentleigh Secondary College remains a place where everyone belongs, every learning pathway is celebrated, and every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Congratulations, Helene, on this well-deserved recognition.

• Innovation in Learning Environment Design – Performing Arts Precinct

The Performing Arts Precinct at Bentleigh Secondary College is more than a building — it is a dynamic, purpose-built space that inspires creativity, collaboration, and growth. Designed to support a diverse range of performances, from intimate solo acts to large-scale productions, the precinct empowers students to explore and express their talents in an environment that seamlessly blends state-of-the-art technology with artistic innovation.

Equipped with advanced acoustic, lighting, and sound systems, the space offers a rich, immersive experience that encourages students to push the boundaries of creativity. Its flexible design supports both individual and collaborative work, catering to various performance styles and group sizes.

The precinct’s cross-disciplinary approach also prepares students for the evolving landscape of the performing arts industry, setting a new benchmark in performance-based education. By integrating creativity with cutting-edge technology, this space plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of artists, performers, and creative leaders.

This national recognition is a testament to the shared vision, dedication, and collaboration of our students, staff, and community partners. Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this outstanding facility to life!

Performing Arts Precinct

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Celebrating Year 9 Student Achievement

At a recent Year 9 assembly, we proudly recognised several students for their outstanding contributions and personal excellence across a range of areas. These students have exemplified the values we uphold at Bentleigh—dedication, kindness, respect, and a strong work ethic.

? Congratulations to:
• Evelyn – Positive Work Ethic
• Alyssa – Sound Work Habits
• Aidan – Dedication and Commitment
• Kalan – Shows Kindness and Respect
• Brodie – Shows Kindness and Respect
• Riley – Solid Work Ethic
• Evie – Academic Achievement

Your efforts do not go unnoticed. Your dedication and positivity continue to inspire those around you and reflect the spirit of our school community.

Well done! ?

Our mathematics students have been hard at work applying their logical reasoning and critical thinking skills as they participate in the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge—a prestigious international competition that blends mathematics, computer science, and problem-solving in an engaging and accessible way.

Held in over 60 countries worldwide, the Bebras Challenge invites students to tackle a series of short, thought-provoking problems that require pattern recognition, algorithmic thinking, decomposition, and logical deduction—core skills that not only support mathematical achievement but also underpin success in programming, data science, and many emerging technologies.

The tasks are designed to be both challenging and fun, encouraging students to think creatively and analytically as they work through each scenario. Whether they’re identifying a hidden pattern, breaking down complex steps, or strategizing the most efficient path to a solution, students are developing vital skills that will serve them well in STEM fields and beyond.

We are incredibly proud of all our students who stepped up to take part in this global challenge. Their enthusiasm, persistence, and curiosity exemplify the spirit of lifelong learning—and their efforts today are helping to build the innovative problem-solvers of tomorrow.

Well done to everyone involved!

This edition of Bentleigh Book Banter shines a spotlight on two captivating novels by acclaimed Young Adult author Garth Nix — The Left-Handed Booksellers of London and its sequel The Sinister Booksellers of Bath.

Griffin and Mia share their reflections on this action-packed fantasy series that begins with The Left-Handed Booksellers of London, where art student Susan Arkshaw is suddenly pulled into a magical underworld in search of her father. Aided by the charismatic Merlin St. Jacques, Susan navigates an alternate version of London, rich with folklore, magick, and mystery.

Nix’s vivid storytelling and imaginative world-building draw readers into a universe where ancient forces and modern life collide. From enchanted relics to shadowy demesnes, the world of the booksellers is both thrilling and immersive.

The adventure continues in The Sinister Booksellers of Bath, where familiar characters return — including Merlin, dazzling as ever in a wardrobe of extraordinary costumes. The historic city of Bath provides a perfect backdrop for this spellbinding sequel, which weaves mythology, mystery, and a love of literature into a compelling narrative.

Griffin and Mia note that at the heart of the series is a powerful message: books have the power to protect, inform, and transform. In an age where the availability of certain books is increasingly debated, the booksellers’ mission to preserve knowledge feels especially timely. As Mia puts it, “There can be no mistaking the relevance of this theme. Books are a powerful weapon — and Nix uses that truth to its full effect.”

This featured review is brought to you by… Mrs Rowe

In this edition of Bentleigh Book Banter, Mrs Rowe shares her deep appreciation for Northern Lights by Philip Pullman, the first novel in the acclaimed His Dark Materials trilogy.

“Northern Lights is a masterpiece of storytelling that continues to leave a lasting impression on me,” says Mrs Rowe. “Its rich narrative, imaginative world-building, and profound themes make it a book I return to time and again.”

At the heart of the story is the unforgettable Lyra Belacqua, a bold, fiercely independent young heroine whose journey of self-discovery is as moving as it is adventurous. Lyra’s relationship with her daemon, Pantalaimon—a physical manifestation of her soul—is one of the most compelling elements of the novel, offering readers a deeply emotional and symbolic exploration of identity, loyalty, and growing up.

“Their bond is both heartwarming and profound,” Mrs Rowe reflects. “Watching Lyra and Pan face the world together reminds me of the strength found in companionship and trust.”

Pullman’s extraordinary world-building transports readers from the icy North to realms shaped by mystery, mythology, and metaphysics. Beneath the thrilling adventure lies a tapestry of thought-provoking themes—free will, the challenge of authority, and the pursuit of truth—making Northern Lights not just a story, but a philosophical journey.

“It’s a book that inspires curiosity, invites reflection, and reminds me why I fell in love with reading in the first place.”

Mrs Rowe’s closing reflection brings it all home with one of the book’s most memorable quotes:

“I will love you forever; whatever happens. Till I die and after I die… I’ll be looking for you, every moment, every single moment.”

A timeless recommendation for staff and students alike, Northern Lights is a reminder of literature’s power to move, challenge, and inspire.