College News

For students with a passion for movement and performance, St Brigid’s College offers a unique opportunity to pursue dance alongside a strong academic foundation.  The College provides a balanced full time secondary education while enabling students to graduate with nationally recognised dance qualifications. Students in Year 10 can begin their pathway with the Certificate II in Dance, a one-year program designed to develop both technical skills and transferable life capabilities. The course extends beyond learning choreography, with a focus on problem-solving, safe dance practices, physical fitness, and collaboration. Students explore a range of dance styles, building confidence as they work both independently and within group settings. Importantly, no prior dance training outside of school is required. This foundation leads into the Certificate III in Dance in Years 11 and 12, a two-year qualification auspiced by Empower Dance PTY LTD. This advanced program offers a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to dance education, integrating practical training with theoretical study and career exploration. Students develop strength, flexibility, and body awareness through structured conditioning, while also learning the importance of injury prevention and self-care for a sustainable future in dance. A key feature of the Certificate III is its emphasis on career pathways and self-awareness. Students are encouraged to consider their place within the broader dance industry, gaining insight into future opportunities while refining their technical and performance abilities. Both courses include practical and written components, ensuring students develop a well-rounded understanding of the discipline. Students are required to provide their own dance attire, including tan jazz shoes, body stocking, tan tights, and personal hair and makeup items, with additional information provided upon enrolment. Through this structured pathway, St Brigid’s College equips students not only with technical proficiency, but also with discipline, resilience, and a clear sense of direction. Graduates leave Year 12 with both their secondary education and a recognised qualification in dance—opening doors to further study or professional opportunities in the performing arts. To find out more about our Secondary Pathways at St Brigid’s College, visit our College curriculum Handbooks here.  

We’re two terms in and you may have already met Jess Martin our Deputy Principal of Pastoral Care. Jess Martin’s appointment reflects St Brigid’s College’s ongoing commitment to pastoral excellence and student wellbeing. Her compassionate leadership and dedication to service enriches the community and support students to flourish both personally and academically. A Calling to Make a Difference For Jess, the decision to join St Brigid’s College was guided by a strong sense of purpose. She was drawn to the opportunity to work in a community where she could make a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of young people. This aspiration reflects her belief that schools are not just places of learning, but spaces where students should feel safe, valued, and supported as they grow. A Journey Grounded in Care and Connection Throughout her professional journey, Jess has remained focused on supporting young people and fostering environments that prioritise wellbeing. Her experiences have shaped a leadership approach grounded in empathy and understanding, ensuring that every student feels respected and empowered. This dedication to student-centred care underpins her work and continues to guide her vision for pastoral leadership. A Compassionate and Service-Driven Leadership Style Jess describes her leadership style as compassionate and service-driven, with a strong emphasis on building meaningful relationships across the college community. She believes that fostering a genuine sense of belonging is key to enhancing student wellbeing and engagement. Her approach is closely aligned with the Mercy values that are central to St Brigid’s College—respect, justice, compassion, courage, service, and hospitality. These values inform her daily practice and decision-making, ensuring that her leadership not only supports individuals but also strengthens the collective spirit of the community. Priorities for Pastoral Jess is focused on building strong connections and understanding the unique needs of students across Years 7–12. She is committed to: Getting to know students personally, gaining insight into the challenges they may face Strengthening pastoral care structures, ensuring programs are responsive, inclusive, and impactful Collaborating closely with staff to create an environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive These priorities reflect her belief that effective pastoral care begins with listening, understanding, and working together. Supporting the Whole Community Jess sees her role as one that extends beyond students to include staff and the wider college community. She hopes that every member of St Brigid’s will feel known, valued, and supported. By building on the strong foundation already in place, she aims to celebrate what is working well while contributing to positive and meaningful growth. Life Beyond the College Outside of her professional role, Jessica values balance and wellbeing in her own life. She enjoys Pilates, tennis, shopping, and spending time at the beach, all of which help her recharge and maintain a healthy perspective. A Message to Students Jess shares a simple yet powerful piece of advice for students: “Be kind to yourself and to others.”