Empowering Students with STYMIE

Holy Spirit College is proud to announce the introduction of STYMIE, a powerful online platform designed to support student wellbeing and safety. As of today, STYMIE will become an integral part of our School’s commitment to fostering a caring, respectful, and proactive community.

What is STYMIE?

STYMIE is an anonymous notification system that allows students to report concerns about themselves or others—safely and confidentially. Whether it's bullying, mental health struggles, discrimination, or any form of harm, STYMIE empowers students to speak up without fear of judgment or retaliation.

Notifications are delivered instantly to designated staff members of the pastoral team, enabling timely and sensitive responses that align with our wellbeing framework. Students can even include supporting images to help validate their concerns.

Student Introduction

To kick off the launch, students and staff were formally introduced to STYMIE on Thursday, 28 August, during a special presentation by a STYMIE representative. This session explained how the platform works, why it matters, and how students can use it to support themselves and others. It’s a powerful opportunity to build awareness and encourage a culture of courage and care.

Sensitive & Confidential Support

At Holy Spirit College, we want every student to feel safe and supported. That’s why every STYMIE notification is treated with the utmost sensitivity and confidentiality. Reports are only seen by trained staff members who are equipped to respond with care, discretion, and professionalism. Our goal is to ensure that students feel heard and protected—without fear of judgment or exposure.

Students are never required to identify themselves when submitting a notification, and no action is taken without thoughtful consideration of their well-being.

Why STYMIE Matters

Empowers Bystanders: Students often witness harmful behaviour but feel powerless to intervene. STYMIE gives them a voice.

Supports Early Intervention: By reporting concerns early, students help prevent escalation and promote a safer environment.

Builds Psychological Safety: STYMIE helps challenge the social norm of “staying silent,” encouraging a culture of care and accountability.

Strengthens Wellbeing: It complements our existing wellbeing initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to student mental health and emotional safety.

Tips for Parents: Talking About STYMIE

STYMIE works best when families are part of the conversation. Here are a few ways parents and carers can support their children:

• Start with empathy: Ask open-ended questions like “Have you ever seen someone being treated unfairly at school?” or “What would you do if a friend was struggling?”
• Normalize speaking up: Reinforce that reporting isn’t “dobbing”—it’s a way to protect others and uphold school values.
• Explore the platform together: Visit the STYMIE website and walk through how it works. This builds trust and shows your child that you’re engaged.
• Encourage reflection: Discuss how kindness, courage, and responsibility play a role in creating a safe school environment.
• Keep the door open: Let your child know they can always come to you, even if they choose to use STYMIE anonymously.

By working together, students, staff, and families, we can build a culture where safety, respect, and compassion are the norm.

For more information, visit the STYMIE official website About Us | Stymie

Let’s work together to create a culture where saying something can change everything.

SchoolTV - Digital Media Literacy & Safety Webinar

DATE: Tuesday, 2 September 2025
TIME: 7:30 pm

Topics in this webinar include:

• New Social Media Regulations
• Digital Footprint and Reputation
• Screen Time and Brain Development
• Parental Controls

Please note: Participants MUST REGISTER PRIOR to the commencement of the webinar to gain access.

Register for the webinar here.

We look forward to having you join us for this insightful and engaging session.

Curriculum News

Get Ready for 2026: Subject Selection Information Sessions Inspire Future Success

Our recent Information Sessions for Years 8, 9 and 10 Subject Selections lit up the FBC on 26 August, welcoming students and parents from Years 7, 8 and 9. The buzz of excitement was palpable as students discovered the wide array of subjects on offer, empowering them to make choices that will unlock endless possibilities for their academic journeys.

Each student received a personalised folder packed with their NAPLAN Reports and Certificates, celebrating the remarkable achievements of our 2025 cohort—many of whom exceeded expectations across NAPLAN assessments. Congratulations to all!

Adding to the excitement, six lucky students walked away with Spirit Café vouchers worth $50, $30, and $20—a sweet reward for their enthusiasm and participation.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our Year 7-9 SRC members for their outstanding leadership in delivering the Acknowledgement of Country and leading prayer alongside Ms Lesley Fraser. We also extend our gratitude to Mrs Alison Wales, who inspired students to chase their aspirations and embrace a love of lifelong learning, and to Mrs Sandy McLellan, who offered valuable guidance on the comprehensive student support available through Pastoral Care. Mrs McLellan also gave us an exciting preview of the many enriching events planned for the coming year, ensuring students and families have much to look forward to.

Year 12 Students Prepare for Practice Exams: Tips, Reminders and Support - Your Guide to Mock Exam Success

As the practice exam period approaches, excitement and anticipation are in the air for our Year 12 students—and their families! These exams are not only a key milestone on the journey to graduation, but also a fantastic opportunity for students to hone their exam strategies and boost their confidence ahead of finals.

Getting Ready: Essential Tips for Success

Preparation is more than just studying; it’s about setting yourself up for success. We encourage all students to:

• Review your notes and class materials regularly.
• Practise with past exam papers to get a feel for the format and timing.
• Double-check you have all the essentials: pens, pencils, ruler, calculator, and any specific tools required for your subjects.

A well-packed bag and an organised study plan can go a long way toward easing nerves and boosting performance.

Important Exam Rules & Reminders

A few key rules to keep in mind:

• Water bottles must be clear—no coloured or branded bottles (leave your YETIs at home!).
• Pencil cases should also be clear; zip-lock bags work perfectly.
• No white out is permitted—plan your answers carefully!
• Students are required to remain in the exam room for the entire duration of the exam; no early departures are allowed. Use every minute to check and improve your responses.

During the exam, make the most of your time:

• Review your answers thoroughly.
• Check for any gaps or missed questions.
• Ensure you’ve answered each question in full.

Mock exams are your chance to practise under real conditions and learn what works best for you.

Support Every Step of the Way

Remember, these practice exams are not just about scores—they’re about learning, growing, and preparing for the real thing. Trust the effort you’ve put in and know that your teachers and the Holy Spirit College community are cheering you on.

We want to remind all students and parents that you are not alone on this journey. Our staff and school community are here to support, encourage, and pray for you as you give your best effort.

Wishing all our Year 12s the very best—approach your exams with confidence and pride in how far you’ve come!

Regards,

Anne Miles - Assistant Principal (Curriculum)