26 September 2025

Message from the Principal

As Term 3 draws to a close, we reflect on a Term filled with energy, creativity, and community spirit. From the classroom to the stage, and across our grounds, Ashdale Secondary College has been buzzing with activity, achievement, and celebration.

One of the standout highlights was our No Limits charity fundraising campaign, where our students and staff came together with heart and purpose to raise over $3,000 for this crucial organisation. This incredible effort showcased the generosity and compassion that define our College community.

Our musical production of Chicago – Teen Edition was a resounding success, captivating audiences with dazzling performances, professional staging, and the sheer talent of our students. A big thank you to our wonderful P&C for providing the funds that made the staging of this production possible—your support helped bring this vision to life.

We were also delighted to welcome our Japanese exchange students from Hikone High School this Term. Their presence brought a rich cultural exchange to our College, and we were equally proud of the warm welcome our own students received when they travelled to Japan in September. These experiences continue to build global friendships and broaden horizons for everyone involved.

Term 3 was packed with themed celebrations and learning experiences, including:

• Harry Potter Day, where magic filled the halls and creativity took flight.
• NAIDOC Week, honouring the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Science Week, sparking curiosity and innovation across all year levels.
• Book Week and Literacy/Numeracy Week, which brought stories to life and highlighted the importance of foundational skills in fun and engaging ways.

We also began our Primary School Transition Days, helping future Ashdale students feel excited and supported as they prepare for high school life. These days are a vital part of building confidence and connection, and we’re thrilled to see so many young learners engaging with the College of their future.

For our Year 12 students, this Term marked a series of emotional milestones. The long-awaited Year 12 Ball was a night to remember—elegant, joyful, and a true celebration of friendships and achievements. As the term ended, we shared in the bittersweet moments of the final assembly and Year 12 Breakfast, honouring the journey of our graduating class with pride and affection.

We also celebrate the achievements of our sports star students, who continue to shine in our Netball and Soccer academies. Several students have proudly represented both the state and the country in their chosen sports—congratulations on your outstanding dedication and success!

Behind every success this Term stands the unwavering dedication of our teaching staff, whose expertise and commitment continue to inspire. We are delighted to share the news that our Humanities & Social Sciences teacher, Martina Manwaring, has been named the 2025 Curtin School of Education Mentor Teacher of the Year. We congratulate her for being recognised for her hard work and dedication. We also extend heartfelt thanks to our non-teaching staff, whose support and care ensure our school runs smoothly and warmly. And of course, we celebrate our students, whose courage, resilience, generosity, and kindness make Ashdale Secondary a truly extraordinary place to work and to learn.

You will have noticed that we have also made solid progress on our building works, with exciting developments underway that will enhance our learning environment for years to come. We sincerely thank our community for your patience and understanding as we navigate temporary disruptions to parking and congestion. The result—just 18 short months away—will be well worth the wait.

As we head into the holiday break, we wish all our families, staff and students a happy, safe, and restful time. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in Term 4, refreshed and ready for the final chapter of the school year.

Jacquie Bogunovich
Principal

Message from College Board Chair

The College Board met for the third time this year in September, and I had the honour of welcoming our newest Board member, Dr Julia McFarlane.  We look forward to her insights and the contributions she will bring in support of Ashdale SC.

The Board received an update on the College’s financials, including the progress of the payment of school fees.  The Board extends its sincere thanks to all parents and caregivers for their timely payments, which play a vital role in ensuring that all our teachers are equipped with the resources required to deliver the highest quality learning experiences for our students.

One achievement celebrated by the Board was Jacquie Bogunovich, Principal, being selected to represent Western Australia and Ashdale SC at the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Achieving Excellence: Leadership Development for Principals program.  This is a testament to her leadership and dedication to educational excellence. 

Another highlight of the meeting was a report from our Student Leadership Team, who shared details about several student events held to promote awareness and raised an impressive $3,000 for the local charity, No Limits Perth. The Board congratulates all students involved for their commitment and teamwork in supporting such a meaningful cause.

As we reach the final Term of the year, I encourage all Ashdale students to continue striving for excellence as we approach the end of the school year.  I look forward to personally congratulating our Year 12 students and celebrating with their family and friends at the October Graduation night. To our future graduates and all Ashdale students, I wish to impart some guiding words to carry on your journey,

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”

– Walt Disney

Steve Sartain
Board Chair – Ashdale Secondary College

Save the Date – Ashdale Showcase 2025

We are excited to invite parents, caregivers, students, and the wider Ashdale community to our annual Ashdale Showcase, scheduled for Monday, 8 December, from 5 pm to 7 pm.

This much-anticipated event is a celebration of learning across the College, with every Learning Area contributing activities, displays, and interactive experiences for all to enjoy.

The evening will also mark the official opening of our annual Art Exhibition, featuring a stunning collection of works from our talented Visual Arts students.

In addition to the learning displays, there will be plenty of fun for the whole family, including food trucks, face painting, and even giant bubbles!

Please save the date—we look forward to seeing our community come together to celebrate the achievements and creativity of our students.

UN1TY No Limits Fundraiser 2025 – A Huge Success!

The UN1TY Leadership Team is proud to announce the incredible success of the 2025 No Limits Fundraiser, which was held across Weeks 1 and 2 of this Term. Thanks to the fantastic efforts of our students, staff, and broader school community, we raised a tremendous $3,000 in support of No Limits, a local charity dedicated to helping people facing hardship, individuals experiencing homelessness, victims of domestic violence, and those struggling financially. Families and children in difficult situations, as well as people affected by fires, to recover and rebuild.

UN1TY No Limits Fundraiser 2025

Throughout the two weeks, the College was buzzing with fun, energy, and school spirit as everyone came together to support a great cause. The event line-up was packed with engaging activities, including:

• Sausage sizzle & food events – Lunchtime never smelled so good.
• Student vs teacher sports games – A highlight for everyone. Year groups faced off against their teachers in friendly competition. One day, the students will secure a win!
• Bake sale – Delicious treats from the Year 12 Children, Family & Community classes were a major hit.
• Popcorn machine & photo booth – Fun snacks and great memories shared among friends.
• Free Dress Day – A splash of colour and creativity across the College.
• Student & staff raffles – Thank you to everyone who donated prizes and took part.

None of this would have been possible without the dedication and organisation of our UN1TY Leadership Team, committed staff, and local sponsors—including Stirling Leisure Centre, Curtin University, Ergolink, Wanneroo Botanic Garden, Repco, Malaga, Times Up Escape Rooms, and Farmer Jacks, Landsdale — who generously supported our efforts.

Thank you for making a difference in the lives of those in need!

Michaela
Student Leader - Year 8

Student Leaders Support No Limits 10th Anniversary High Tea

On Sunday, 17 August, our Student Leadership Team participated in our annual tradition of supporting the local charity, No Limits, at their High Tea Fundraiser. This year’s event was extra special, as we joined in celebrating their 10th anniversary.

Our responsibilities on the day included setting up food displays, serving tea and coffee and conversing with the attendees. Most of us stayed behind to support the clean-up, too, and the organisers greatly appreciated this.

It was inspiring to hear stories from community members who have benefited from No Limits, and it was particularly exciting to learn about the charity's planned future growth.

We are grateful for this opportunity and look forward to continuing to support No Limits in the future.

Charlotte, Isabelle & Arwyn
Student Leaders - Year 12

A Final Bow: Honouring Our Certificate II Dance Graduates

In my time teaching Dance, I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most dedicated, motivated, and well-rounded students in the school. Many of them I’ve known since Year 7, and over the past six years, I’ve watched them grow into bright, mature, and inspiring young adults. Our journey together has extended far beyond the classroom—from standing beside them backstage at Ashdale Showcases, to cheering them on from the wings at interschool competitions, and most recently, collaborating closely as choreographers and lead performers in our upcoming 2025 production of Chicago: Teen Edition.

The past two years in the Certificate II Dance class have been filled with laughter, creativity, and genuine growth, thanks in no small part to five remarkable students. Abbey, Ava, Charlotte, Chantelle, and Mikayla: you are the heart and soul of dance at Ashdale. Your energy, passion, and positivity have left a lasting mark on both me and the Arts Department. You will be dearly missed.

As you move forward, know that we are immensely proud of you. We look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish, both academically and personally. Thank you for everything.

Warmest wishes,
Miss Rodrigues

Chantal Rodrigues
Teacher – The Arts

Politics and Law Students Witness the Law in Action

On Tuesday, 29 July, our Year 11 ATAR Politics and Law class stepped out of the classroom and into the heart of Western Australia's legal and political institutions. The immersive excursion offered students a unique opportunity to see the principles they've studied come to life across some of the state's most significant institutions. 

The day began with a hands-on roleplay activity in the ceremonial courtroom of the Supreme Court, the very space where some of WA's most distinguished lawyers and judges have taken their oaths. Surrounded by history, students were invited to take on key legal roles and gain insight into courtroom procedures and decorum. 

Next, students observed an e-court session from the public gallery, witnessing how modern technology enables prisoners to attend hearings via video link. This experience prompted thoughtful discussion on how the justice system balances accessibility and efficiency with fairness. 

At the District Court, students observed a sentencing hearing firsthand. Here, classroom theory met real-world complexity, as students reflected on how aggravating and mitigating factors, along with human empathy and judicial discretion, shape sentencing outcomes. 

The final stop was Parliament House, where students explored WA's legislative process. Although Parliament wasn't sitting on the day, students had the rare opportunity to take the seats of elected representatives in the Legislative Assembly chamber—bringing democracy into sharp, personal focus. 

Politics and Law Students Witness the Law in Action

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The excursion was more than a field trip—it was an active, reflective and inspiring experience that deepened students' understanding of how law and politics operate beyond the textbook. 

Tara Libbis
Teacher - Humanities and Social Sciences

Celebrating Our Talented Young Artists

It’s been a fantastic Semester for our Visual Arts students, with some incredible achievements to celebrate! Congratulations to Ajany Abracia, Alisha Islami and Maya Burns, who were selected to exhibit their artworks in the St George’s Cathedral Annual Art Exhibition in Perth. A special mention goes to Ajany, who took out first place in the digital artwork category with her powerful piece Wear, Waste, Repeat. – what an amazing effort!

The celebrations didn’t stop there, with Ajany Abracia, Maya Burns and Alexia van Aarde also chosen to display their talents in the Young Originals Exhibition at Edith Cowan University. This year, 212 artworks were submitted from schools across Western Australia, and only 70 were chosen. We’re pleased to say that three of them are from Ashdale.

Celebrating Our Talented Young Artists

Being selected for these exhibitions is such an incredible honour, and we are so proud of the creativity, passion and hard work our students have put into their art. Well done to all – we can’t wait to see what you do next!

Lisa Briscoe, Tarryne Hutchinson and Mo Iqbal
Teachers - Visual Arts

SSWA Netball Elimination Carnival

Our Netball Academy students proudly represented Ashdale at the SSWA Champion Schools Netball Elimination Carnival, and what an outstanding effort it was!

We submitted all 10 of our academy teams into this highly competitive statewide competition, in which 100s of teams participate across Western Australia. To reach the Elimination Carnival, teams must go undefeated in five games in one day during the first round. A physically and mentally demanding challenge.

We were proud to have our 8A team (featuring two Year 7 students playing up) and our 10A team (with three Year 9 students playing up) qualify for the next stage. Both teams faced elite-level opponents, including mostly specialist netball schools, and rose to the occasion with determination and heart.

• Year 8s delivered a phenomenal performance, missing out on a top 8 finish by just two goals.

• Year 10s played their best netball of the season in a tightly contested final match, narrowly missing progression to the top 8.

Reaching this stage is an incredible accomplishment that deserves celebration. Every student who participated demonstrated maturity, resilience, and exceptional sportsmanship. Whether playing every quarter or supporting from the sideline due to strategic rotations, each athlete embodied true team spirit.

We are so proud of how our students represented Ashdale — with pride, passion, and positivity.

Jaime Dastlik
Netball Academy Coordinator

Year 12 Geography ATAR Field Trip to Perth

On Thursday, 31 July, we took a group of 15 enterprising ATAR geography students to the Perth CBD and East Perth redevelopment at Claisebrook to undertake their compulsory urban fieldwork. We visited several exciting stops on our way from the Inner Mixed Zone back to the CBD via Chinatown and Northbridge. Students had to collect information on the various characteristics of each area and identify the processes that had led to the specific land use. They also completed two field sketches and finished the day tired, but happy at Elizabeth Quay. It was a pleasure to spend the day with some of Ashdale's finest young people.

Paul Baxter
Teacher – Humanities and Social Sciences

Year 7 Lightning Carnival

In Week 2, our Year 7 students took part in the largest Lightning Carnival of the year, with more than 250 students representing Ashdale Secondary College across eight different sports.

It was an exciting day of competition, teamwork, and school spirit. The Boys Basketball A team came away as champions after a strong performance, while our Hockey team made it all the way to the Grand Final, narrowly missing out on the win.

The carnival was a fantastic opportunity for students to get active, try their best, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with team sport. Congratulations to all students who participated – we are proud of your efforts and the positive way you represented our College.

Jess Wheatman
Head of Learning Area – Health and Physical Education 

Girls in Physics Breakfast

On Tuesday, 12 August, seven of our aspiring physicists attended the Girls in Physics Breakfast at the WA Space Science Education Centre, hosted by Joseph Banks Secondary College.

The event provided students with the opportunity to explore the wonders of the quantum world and take part in hands-on activities that brought complex scientific concepts to life. It was an inspiring experience that sparked curiosity and deepened their passion for science.

Girls in Physics Breakfast

We look forward to seeing where their interest in physics will lead them in the future.

Claire Tull
Teacher – Science  

Multicultural Netball Carnival

During Week 4, our Netball Academy proudly sent three Year 7 teams and three Year 8 teams to participate in the 2025 Multicultural Netball Carnival at the Perth Netball Association. The carnival brought together athletes from schools across Perth for a fun and competitive day of netball, with plenty of exciting opportunities both on and off the court.

Our students enjoyed not only the fierce competition but also the extra activities on offer – including designing their own netball, taking part in cultural activities, and even being featured in a Fever team photo opportunity.

It was fantastic to see our players representing Ashdale with skill, teamwork, and enthusiasm. The carnival was also a wonderful celebration of diversity, culture, and community through sport.

Multicultural Netball Carnival

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We are extremely proud of all of our teams for the way they played and participated throughout the day!

Jaime Dastlik
Netball Academy Coordinator and HPE Teacher

Ashdale Robotics Team Shines at WA Robotics Playoffs

From Friday, 22 August to Sunday, 24 August, the Ashdale Robotics Team competed at the WA Robotics Playoffs, held at Curtin Stadium. Both of our teams have dedicated the past seven months to engineering and fine-tuning their robots in preparation for this exciting event.

The competition saw 30 teams battle it out in the FIRST Robotics Competition Dive game, with Ashdale represented by Lil' Timmy's Big Team (#9433) and the Ashdale Aquabots (#9986). After strong performances across the qualifying matches, the Aquabots finished in 11th place, while Lil' Timmy's Big Team secured 14th place.

The Aquabots' impressive ranking also earned them a position as an Alliance Captain in the Sunday afternoon playoffs. In a fantastic display of collaboration, they selected Exmouth District High School and Lil' Timmy's Big Team as their partners. Together, the Alliance competed fiercely and finished in 7th place overall.

This was a tremendous achievement and a testament to the dedication, teamwork, and engineering skill of our students. Congratulations to everyone involved for proudly showcasing Ashdale's STEM talent on a state stage.

Ashdale Robotics Team Shines at WA Robotics Playoffs

We now look forward to following the team's progress in the upcoming FIRST Tech Challenge season in Term 4.

Students interested in joining the Ashdale Robotics Team are encouraged to see Mr Warwick in the Technologies office for further details.

Steve Warwick
Teacher - Design and Technology (Engineering)

Ashdale Students Take “The Plunge” and Write a Book in a Day!

In celebration of Book Week, a courageous group of Year 7 students entered the 'Write a Book in a Day' challenge in support of the Kids Cancer Project. As the name of the competition suggests, participants are required to work as part of a dynamic team to write and illustrate a complete book within 12 hours. In case that wasn't hard enough, teams are given a unique and previously unseen set of parameters at the beginning of the day for their story to follow, creating a distinctive challenge for each team! The parameters for our team's story this year included:

Primary Character 1: Tour guide

Students also had to incorporate the following five random words in their narrative: novel, gooey, yarn, plunge, and homework.

In addition to these parameters, each book submitted must be identifiable as Australian in some way, whether through its setting, characters, or themes. This is to honour the origins of the competition, which began at the home of the great Australian author Katharine Susannah Prichard, now a writers' centre bearing her name. Our team worked solidly from 8 am to 8 pm and raised over $ 1,200 for vital research into childhood cancer in Australia. Their book, titled "The Plunge", will soon become available to read as part of the online library at:  https://writeabookinaday.com/library/books.php. In the meantime, you can enjoy previous submissions to the library from across Australia!

Sarah Vanderplank
Teacher – English

Year 9 SEL: Developing Life Skills Through Pasta Making

During Week 5, the Year 9 boys participated in a practical SEL lesson aimed at developing essential life skills. Students were guided through the process of making pasta from scratch, an activity that encouraged responsibility, attention to detail, and collaboration.

Year 9 SEL: Developing Life Skills Through Pasta Making

The lesson highlighted the importance of learning everyday skills in a supportive environment, with the added reward of enjoying the meal they had prepared together. This hands-on experience reinforced the value of perseverance and teamwork, while also providing a meaningful and enjoyable conclusion to their learning.

Anna Rains
Teacher - Numeracy Support Teacher

Years 7-9 AFL team – Dockers Cup

On Monday, 18 August, our Year 7–9 girls' AFL team took to the field in the Dockers Cup against John Septimus Roe in what proved to be a spirited and hard-fought match. Despite the final score reading Ashdale 4.4 (28) to JSR 6.7 (43), the game was a true testament to the resilience, teamwork, and determination of our girls.

From the first bounce, the Ashdale team brought energy and intensity, working together to move the ball forward and apply pressure across the ground. Their communication and support for one another were standout features, with players backing each other up in contests and showing great sportsmanship throughout.

The girls never gave up, even as JSR edged ahead in the second half. Their defensive efforts were tireless, and their ability to regroup and push forward in the final half showed just how much heart this team has. Every player contributed, whether it was through strong tackles or sheer persistence.

While the result didn't go our way this time, the performance was a proud moment for Ashdale. 

Well done to all the players involved—you've done Ashdale proud!

Maddi Linto
Teacher - Science

Year 10 Art Students Collaborate with Renée Barton on New Mural Project

Seven Year 10 Visual Arts students were selected to participate in an exciting creative opportunity, working closely with Renée Barton, the artist currently designing the mural for the new Ashdale SC building.

Renée Barton, a Landscape Architect, Designer, and Visual Artist based in Halls Head, Mandurah, spent two days with the students. During this time, they explored her creative process, gaining insight into the inspiration, techniques, and planning involved in producing a large-scale artwork.

Drawing from the local environment, students studied native flora and fauna, creating a series of detailed line drawings. These works will be incorporated into the final mural design, allowing student art to become a lasting part of the new building.

Year 10 Art Students Collaborate with Renée Barton on New Mural Project

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The completed mural, measuring over 6 metres by 2 metres, will be a vibrant and meaningful addition to the school. This collaboration offered students a unique insight into public art, creative collaboration, and professional artistic practice.

Students involved: Rienne Hadwell, Reyan Jasim, Madiana Rezaie, Bianca Jones, Qamah Iskander, Anisha Aboo, Ajany Abracia, Natalie Stojceska

Mo Iqbal
Teacher – Visual Arts

APS Excursion to Joondalup TAFE and ECU

On Thursday, 21 August, Year 9 and 10 SALP students travelled to Joondalup TAFE and ECU. This was a fantastic opportunity for Year 9 and 10 students to explore the vast and exciting world of possibilities when it comes to finding their dream career. They explored 3D Animation and game development, mechanical and electrical car servicing, cooking, and hospitality. 

The first stop of the day was the kitchen. The students walked through, with the help of a guide, and watched how a kitchen was run, learning about the distinct roles each chef was responsible for. Although the free churros were a tasty delight, the real show-stopper was watching one of the Pastry chefs assemble a croquembouche! This has inspired a few students to pursue a career in the kitchen! 

Following this, and the campus map, we made our way to the computer lab, where we were allowed to sit in on a live TAFE lecture explaining the concepts of building a 3D world in the animations class. This has sparked curiosity and interest amongst the budding gamers!  

Last but not least, we motored on over to the new building on the block, the workshop! Where we could experience first-hand someone changing a battery on an electric car! This was electrifying to watch, as there were many protocols and dangers associated with it. However, with the practice room set up next to the workshop, the apprentices received the best training necessary to do their job. The students were also allowed into this room to take a look. 

APS Excursion to Joondalup TAFE and ECU

Julia Kingston-Polman
Teacher - Specialised Autism Learning Program (SALP)

NAIDOC Week

During NAIDOC Week, our Year 7 students had the chance to see how maths connects with Indigenous culture in a creative and meaningful way. In their maths classes, students explored lines of symmetry and reflections through the lens of Aboriginal symbols and artwork.

Students examined traditional symbols used in Indigenous art and storytelling, then applied their geometry skills to identify lines of symmetry and reflect shapes. The activity encouraged students to think about how patterns and reflections are not only part of mathematics, but also a way to share stories, knowledge, and connections to Country.

The classroom was buzzing with energy as students combined mathematical thinking with cultural learning. It was a fantastic way to celebrate NAIDOC Week and show that maths is everywhere, even in art that has been telling stories for thousands of years!

Isabella Torretti
Teacher - Mathematics

Year 12 Career Interview Day

As part of the Year 12 Career and Enterprise General and Flexi course, Year 12 students were required to conduct a simulated job interview for their final Production and Performance assessment task. These involved students selecting entry-level jobs, such as a retail assistant, first-year apprentice or childcare assistant, and preparing in advance to impress their interviewers.

On the day, students were interviewed by two volunteer teachers who asked them questions about their work experience, qualifications and understanding of the role they were applying for. Students were graded on their knowledge of the position, their social and communication skills and their effort and expertise. Over 70 interviews were conducted over two days, and the teachers who conducted them commented on how impressive and mature the students were, stating that they would hire some of them on the spot had it been a real interview.

Following interviews, students received detailed feedback on their strengths and advice on how to improve for their next interview. Initiatives such as this provide our students who are about to graduate a unique opportunity to develop their employability skills and set them up for success in a competitive workforce. Thank you to all the educators who volunteered their time to support students and the HaSS Learning Area in conducting these interviews. We genuinely believe this aligns with Ashdale’s motto of achieving a positive future.

Ashley Wright
Head of Learning Area – Humanities and Social Science 

Youth Innovation Think Tank Competition

Over Term 2 and the start of Term 3, eight of our talented Year 10 students took part in the Youth Innovation Think Tank competition.

Working closely together in the lead-up to the event, the team brainstormed solutions to the challenge: “How might we involve young people in their healthcare planning and decisions?” Guided by an industry mentor, they applied the human-centred design thinking process to develop a unique solution, considering its feasibility, desirability, viability, and novelty.

The competition culminated in a live pitch to a panel of judges and fellow contestants. Despite the daunting task of presenting first, the Ashdale team excelled—earning a special mention from the judges for the practicality and originality of their idea.

Although not taking home the win this year, the students gained invaluable experience in creative problem-solving and the design process. They thoroughly enjoyed the challenge and are already looking forward to returning next year, armed with fresh skills and determination to take the prize!

Youth Innovation Think Tank

A big well done to our team members: Sienna I, Tiffany T, Alena N, Ishani K, Shannon F, Arya K, Reyan J, and Dhriti P.

Claire Tull
Teacher – Science 

Crazy Good Tech Challenge

In Week 8, more than 150 students from Years 7–9 took part in the Crazy Good Tech Challenge. Working in small teams, students followed a four-step design process to spark bold and creative ideas on how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used as a force for good in our world.

The day began with students exploring real-world issues they are passionate about, including environmental sustainability, mental health, education, and their local communities. From there, each team brainstormed innovative ways that AI might be applied to address these challenges in meaningful and practical ways.

Once equipped with their idea, the teams developed prototypes and crafted persuasive pitches to “sell” their solutions. The range of entries was truly inspiring, spanning from AI systems designed to support mental health and learning to technologies focused on protecting the environment and improving community wellbeing.

Every group produced a unique solution, demonstrating not only their creativity but also their teamwork, problem-solving skills, and ability to think critically about the future role of technology in society.

We now eagerly await the results to see if any of our entries will be recognised as winners in this year’s competition. Regardless of the outcome, the enthusiasm and innovation demonstrated by our students were outstanding, and we are proud of the way they took on the challenge.

Claire Tull
Teacher – Science 

PECAN CTF

On Sunday, 24 August, teams of Year 11 and 12 students competed with students all around Australia in the 2025 PECAN Cyber Security CTF (capture the flag).

Teams were given four hours to hack, search, and program their way through various challenges set by cybersecurity students at ECU Joondalup and other universities. The challenges ranged from difficult to extraordinarily difficult, with ASC students really holding their own against hundreds of competitors.

Challenges included Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) – utilising publicly available knowledge, reverse engineering (breaking open programs to understand their inner workings), and an obscure music-based encryption method.

In the end, our main Year 11 team finished in the top 20, and our Year 12s just outside the top 10 – an incredible effort for the hardest CTF to date.

This was a special final CTF for our Year 12 team, as they have been competing since Year 9.

PECAN CTF

PECAN CTF runs once a year in Term 3 at ECU Joondalup and is open to middle and senior school students. ECU runs training sessions and provides opportunities to network and learn cybersecurity skills throughout the competition.

Well done to all involved!

Jonathan Ihlein
Teacher – Information, Communication and Technology 

Year 10 Forensics Students Bring Crime Scenes to Life

Year 10 Forensics/Digital Forensics students have been learning all about fingerprints, blood, DNA and crime scene photography this term!

Students had a great time setting up their own crime scenes for their peers to identify and photograph a wide variety of suspicious evidence – showcasing their methodical approach to capturing each piece of evidence from different angles and distances without disturbing the scenes.

Year 10 Forensics Students Bring Crime Scenes to Life

The Year 10s should be very proud of their work, as they did a great job throughout and were fantastic with the cleanup at the end.

Jonathan Ihlein
Teacher – Information, Communication and Technology 

Science in Practice: Forensic Science

This term, our Year 11 Science in Practice students have been putting their forensic science skills to the test, tackling a series of “crimes” staged within the classroom.

Students applied forensic facial reconstruction, anatomical measurements, and feature identification to create biological profiles of unknown victims, uncovering the identities of missing persons as part of their investigations. They also practised a range of essential forensic techniques, including microscopy, spectroscopy, and comparison analysis, to piece together evidence and reconstruct the whole story behind each case.

Science in Practice: Forensic Science

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The investigations culminated in mock court presentations, where students delivered their findings as expert witnesses, demonstrating both scientific accuracy and critical thinking. These hands-on experiences have allowed students to develop a strong understanding of forensic science methods while honing their problem-solving, observation, and analytical skills.

The creativity, dedication, and attention to detail shown by our students throughout these investigations have been awe-inspiring.

Claire Tull
Teacher – Science 

Book Week 2025 – Book an Adventure!

Book Week 2025 at Ashdale Secondary College was an adventure! Now, it wouldn’t be a themed week at the College without an obligatory Mentor quiz, whilst throughout the week, various literacy-based board games were made available to students. In English classes, teachers ran Literacy-based quizzes that challenged students to guess the title of a text when only given a fraction of the cover as a clue.

Throughout the week, students were caught red-handed during the ‘Get Caught Reading’ competition and buzzed through the Spelling Bee with dictionary-level drama. The Bananagrams Tournament was a lot of fun, while Year 7 students proved that brilliance can be bound by a deadline in the Write a Book In A Day competition, and Origami Bookmarks turned paper into pure poetry. Meanwhile, Match the HOLA, Executive Team or Student Services team member to their Favourite Book revealed surprising secrets about their reading habits, and the BookFace Competition blurred the line between fiction and selfie.

As is tradition, the week culminated with the Book Week Dress Up Day, where staff and students strutted their stuff as their favourite book characters.

In short, Book Week 2025 wasn’t just read, it was well-read. And like all the best stories, it left us wanting a sequel.

Amy Rowland
Teacher – English

Year 9 Netball Camp

The Year 9 Netball Academy students recently attended a three-day camp, where they had the opportunity to compete against five specialist netball schools, participate in team-building activities, and strengthen their bonds as a group.

The girls faced some tough competition against high-level opponents, but they rose to the challenge with determination and excellent skills. Their hard work and persistence paid off, securing several impressive wins against Atwell College and Belridge Secondary College.

Beyond the games, the camp provided a valuable chance for students to build connections, develop teamwork, and grow both on and off the court.  The camp fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and school spirit among the group.

Year 9 Netball Camp

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Overall, the camp was an excellent experience that highlighted the talent, teamwork, and dedication of our Year 9 netball girls, who represented Ashdale Secondary College with pride. 

Jaime Dastlik
Netball Academy Coordinator

Numeracy Week: Rubik’s Cube Competition

Our Numeracy Week lit up with some serious brain-twisting action in the Rubik’s Cube Speed Racing competition! Three of our very own cubing champs—Kyle Shafeeu (Year 10), Deacon Parks (Year 7), and Ethan Chew (Year 9)—took on none other than Alex Hudson, who is ranked 2nd in WA and 75th in Australia for the 3x3 Blindfold Cube Competition. The energy was high, the cubes were flying, and the times were lightning fast: Kyle smashed through in 18.209 seconds, Deacon showed off Year 7 brilliance with 24.248 seconds, and Ethan held strong with 42.371 seconds. But Alex, true to form, dazzled the crowd with a mind-bending 14.889 seconds! A huge congratulations to all our cubers—you definitely made Numeracy Week a twisty, turny triumph!

Tracey Rutter
Numeracy Coordinator

Numeracy Week Basketball Challenge

As part of Numeracy Week, students took part in a fast-paced Basketball Shootout Challenge in the gym. While it looked like pure fun, the event also had a numeracy twist - students applied probability and quick calculating skills alongside their shooting accuracy.

There were some fantastic performances on the day, with three stand-out shooters: Josh Holman (Year 10), Kareem Hourani (Year 11), and the overall champion, Sebastian Clayton (Year 7), who amazed the crowd by scoring 30 points within the 30 seconds allowed!

Thank you to all students who joined in, tested their skills, and enjoyed a Freddo Frog along the way. It was a great display of school spirit, friendly competition, and the fun side of numeracy in action.

Albert Arulnamby
Teacher – Mathematics

2025 Cluster Muster – A Celebration of Community and Talent

The annual Cluster Muster returned in 2025 with an afternoon of music, song, and celebration that truly showcased the talent within our local school communities. This much-anticipated event brought together students, staff, and families from Landsdale Gardens, Ashdale, Landsdale Primary, and Carnaby Rise Primary School for a joyful celebration of the Arts.

The event was officially opened by Principal Jacquie Bogunovich, who welcomed the audience and set the scene for a program filled with energy, collaboration, and creativity. From the very first performance, it was clear that the hard work and dedication of both students and staff had paid off.

The highlight of the Cluster Muster was the shared choir and music performances, where students from across the schools came together in harmony to perform as one. These items were a powerful reminder of the way music can unite and inspire, filling the auditorium with a sense of connection and pride. Our Year 11 Certificate II Music students also performed and demonstrated a pathway for talented students to pursue at the College.

Audience members were full of praise for the showcase. One parent described the event as “just brilliant”, while another shared how “the opportunity for our kids to perform in the theatre is wonderful.” A long-time supporter of the event summed it up perfectly, saying, “This show just keeps getting better and better.”

A heartfelt thank you goes to our Arts and Languages Team and all our Cluster Primary School teachers, whose careful planning, organisation, and passion for the Arts ensured the success of the day. Their efforts created a platform for students to shine, while also strengthening the bonds between our schools.

The 2025 Cluster Muster was more than just a concert — it was a celebration of community spirit, creativity, and the joy of learning together. Families, staff, and students alike left the event with smiles on their faces, a sense of pride in what was achieved, and excitement for what next year’s Muster will bring.

Owen Cusick
Head of Learning Area – The Arts and Languages

Food Truck Frenzy: Students Cook Up Creativity in the Classroom!

This Term, our Year 10 Hospitality students have been cooking up something special—literally! As part of an engaging cross-curricular task, students took on the challenge of designing and preparing meals for a simulated Food Truck experience. The project combined elements of Health, Arts, Business, and Design Technologies, encouraging students to think creatively, work collaboratively, and apply real-world skills.

From brainstorming unique food concepts to researching nutritional value and budgeting ingredients, students embraced every step of the process. The classroom was transformed into a bustling kitchen as groups prepared their signature dishes, ranging from loaded fries and mini tacos to Pad Thai and sorbet, as well as mini Dutch pancakes.

Not only did students learn about food safety and preparation techniques, but they also explored marketing strategies, created logos and menus. The results were impressive—delicious food, thoughtful presentations, and a whole lot of teamwork.

Food Truck Frenzy: Students Cook Up Creativity in the Classroom!

This hands-on task was a fantastic way to bring learning to life, and the students' enthusiasm was contagious. We’re incredibly proud of their efforts and can’t wait to see what they cook up next!

Donna Brigden
Teacher in Charge – Home Economics 

Advocating for Change: Students Inspire with Passion Projects

This Term, our Children, Family and Community students stepped into the role of changemakers, presenting their powerful advocacy projects aimed at raising awareness and promoting positive change in areas that matter most to them.

From mental health and youth homelessness to gender equality and sustainable living, students chose topics close to their hearts and worked tirelessly to research, plan, and deliver impactful campaigns. Their presentations showcased not only their knowledge and empathy but also their creativity, featuring posters, podcasts, videos, social media strategies, and interactive displays.

The advocacy task encouraged students to think critically about social issues, explore community resources, and develop communication skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. It was inspiring to see their confidence grow as they shared their messages with peers, staff, and guests.

Advocating for Change: Students Inspire with Passion Projects

These projects are a testament to the students' commitment to making a difference and their understanding of the importance of advocacy in shaping a more inclusive and supportive society.

We are incredibly proud of their efforts and the thoughtful conversations their work has sparked. The future is in good hands!

Donna Brigden
Teacher in Charge – Home Economics 

Celebrating Women’s Health Week at ASC

Ashdale Secondary College proudly celebrated Women’s Health Week with a week full of valuable information, conversations, and community connections.

The highlight of the week was a Parfait Bar Delight in the staff room, where staff could create their own healthy yoghurt parfaits. The event not only promoted the importance of nutrition and self-care but also brought staff together to pause and enjoy a shared moment of wellbeing.

Throughout the week, resources and information were shared to encourage awareness about women’s health, helping staff and students alike to reflect on how small, positive choices can make a big difference.

Celebrating Women’s Health Week at ASC

The initiative was organised and delivered by the House and Wellbeing Committee, who were thrilled with the turnout and success of the week. The positive feedback received shows the importance of continuing to create opportunities for health awareness, wellness, and connection across the school community.

Emma Kelly
Youth Engagement & Support Worker

Sewing Club Threads Creativity Into Term Project

The Sewing Club has been busy this Term, creating mini pouches to keep our phones safe while we're off and away all day in our bags. With that project finished, we’ve now started on personalised aprons that will be perfect for Home Economics cooking lessons next Term.

Sewing Club Threads Creativity Into Term Project

Along the way, students have learnt how to cut out patterns, use zig-zag and straight stitches, and even sew French seams. Next term, we’re excited to take things further by using the embroidery machine to add personal touches to our aprons. Students who have completed the Year 7/8 textiles course are welcome to join at any time.

Looking forward to seeing more keen sewists next term!

Charlotte Tobin
Senior Teacher – Home Economics

Year 12 Health Expo: Empowering Teens Through Health Awareness

This Term, our Year 12 Health Studies students have stepped into the shoes of health professionals as they planned and presented a powerful Health Expo aimed at educating younger students about pressing teen health issues in today’s world.

Working in expert teams of three, students identified a significant health challenge impacting teenagers—from mental health and physical fitness to vaping, nutrition, and social media use. Each group conducted research, developed engaging materials, and designed an interactive display to inform and inspire students in Years 7 and 8. 

The expo was not just about presenting facts—it was about starting conversations. Our Year 12 students demonstrated real leadership, translating complex health topics into age-appropriate, relatable content that encouraged younger peers to think critically about their own health choices. This promoted awareness of issues that matter deeply to the health and well-being of today’s youth.

Year 12 Health Expo: Empowering Teens Through Health Awareness

A big congratulations to Ms Johnston’s Year 12 Health Studies students for their professionalism and passion throughout the expo—your work has made a real impact!

Lauren Johnston
Teacher – Health and Physical Education

Investigating Proteins - Y12 ATAR Chemistry Excursion to Harry Perkins

Earlier this Term, our Year 12 ATAR Chemistry students traded their classrooms for lab coats at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, and got a taste of what it’s like to be real scientists.

The day kicked off with a deep dive into the fascinating world of proteins. Students explored how proteins are built, from their primary, secondary, and tertiary structures, to the special role of functional groups and the formation of zwitterions. It was a chance to see the chemistry of life in action!

Then came the real challenge... tackling antibiotic-resistant proteins in the lab. Using their chemistry skills and an electrolytic cell, students carried out protein electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins by size and charge. This gave them a real taste of how scientists investigate and analyse proteins.

By the end of the day, students had not only put their Chemistry skills into practice but also seen how those skills connect to some of the world’s biggest challenges, like antibiotic resistance.

Investigating Proteins - Y12 ATAR Chemistry Excursion to Harry Perkins

The Harry Perkins excursion was a perfect mix of science, problem-solving and discovery - proof that Chemistry isn’t just about formulas on a page, but about shaping the future.

Alyssa Kim
Teacher – Science 

Mischief Managed: A Magical Day for Year 7s

Muggles turned Wizards for a day on Tuesday of Week 8 when our Year 7 students celebrated the annual Harry Potter Day. Coordinated by the English Department, Year 7 teachers across the College took on the role of beloved professors, packing the day with spellbinding activities that brought the world of wands, spells, and house points right into the classroom.

Dumbledore would have been proud, with every subject joining in the fun. Creativity came alive in the MESH subject areas, starting with the most popular activity of the day: concocting Troll Bogeys in Science! Maths tested their brains with tricky lock-box puzzles—more challenging than opening the vaults at Gringotts. English transformed into an Escape Room, where only teamwork and sharp thinking could lead students to victory. And in HASS, Minecraft worlds turned digital bricks into Hogwarts castles, towers, and secret passageways.

With not an O.W.L. in sight, it was all about fun in our options classes. In Health, students raced through a Harry Potter quiz faster than a Quidditch Seeker chasing the Snitch. CTI turned into Ollivander’s workshop, with students designing their very own wands. Over in Performing Arts, scenes from the books were brought to life with plenty of dramatic flair. And Art classes became creative havens for crafting colourful bookmarks worthy of Hermione’s library.

Mischief Managed: A Magical Day for Year 7s

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The Year 7s threw themselves into the challenges with all the courage of Gryffindors, the wit of Ravenclaws, the loyalty of Hufflepuffs, and the cunning of Slytherins. The day ended with plenty of smiles, laughter, and a collective cry of “Mischief managed!”.

Amy Rowland
Teacher – English 

Year 11 & 12 Outdoor Education Camps – Margaret River & Dwellingup

In Term 3, our Year 11 and 12 Outdoor Education students embarked on two exciting mountain biking camps to Margaret River and Dwellingup. These camps offered students the opportunity to challenge themselves on a range of mountain biking trails suited to varying abilities. From flowing forest paths to technical sections that tested their skills, students demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and an adventurous spirit throughout the course.

Beyond the biking, students immersed themselves in the whole camping experience. They prepared and shared camp-cooked meals, enjoyed group games and activities, and wound down each evening around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter under the stars. The camaraderie and positive energy were clear highlights of the trip.

Mischief Managed: Year 11 & 12 Outdoor Education Camps

The community also took notice, offering excellent feedback on the students’ exemplary behaviour and conduct during the camps—a testament to their maturity and school pride.

A special commendation goes to the Year 12 Margaret River campers, who, on the final night, faced torrential rain while sleeping in tents. Their ability to remain positive, adaptable, and supportive of each other in challenging conditions was outstanding and reflects the true spirit of outdoor education.

These camps not only built technical biking skills but also strengthened teamwork, perseverance, and appreciation for the outdoors—qualities that will serve our students well in and beyond the classroom.

Anthony Canzurlo 
Teacher – Outdoor Education

Esports Teams Achieve Success in National Competitions

Over a weekend in September, our Esports teams competed in the AEL National competitions, achieving outstanding results across both Rocket League and Minecraft Capture the Flag.

Rocket League – The Gods of Lag

Our Rocket League team won their Division 2 Grand Final against Caringbah High School (NSW) in a thrilling best-of-seven series, finishing 4–2 after several very close games. Following this success, the team went on to play their Nationals qualifier against Phoenix Community College (VIC), the 3rd place Division 1 team. While Phoenix proved the stronger side, the boys fought back after a tough start to finish with closer results in the final two games. This has set a clear new goal for the future—qualifying to compete on the main stage at PAX Melbourne.

Minecraft Capture the Flag – Order of the Stone

Our Minecraft team also enjoyed a brilliant run, progressing through their Single Elimination Bracket before convincingly winning their Grand Final against Heatley SC (QLD). With this victory, they have now qualified for the Nationals competition in October.

Congratulations to both teams on their achievements. We wish our Minecraft team the very best as they prepare for Nationals.

Jeremy Cope
Teacher - Design & Technology

Year 9 Ancient History Elective – Samurai Success!

This Term, our Year 9 Ancient History students have immersed themselves in the fascinating world of the samurai, exploring their rise to power and lasting influence in feudal Japan. Through engaging lessons and hands-on activities, students examined the values of honour, loyalty, and discipline that defined the samurai way of life. A highlight of the term was learning and being assessed on Happo Giri, a traditional katana sword kata that demonstrates precision, control, and the philosophy behind samurai combat techniques. From analysing historical sources to investigating the Bushido code, students developed a deep understanding of what made the samurai so successful. The term concluded with creative presentations and reflections, showcasing their enthusiasm and insight into this iconic warrior class.

Year 9 Ancient History Elective – Samurai Success!

Martina Manwaring
Teacher – Humanities and Social Sciences

Year 9 Oceanography – Exploring the Great Barrier Reef

This Term, our Year 9 Oceanography students have been diving into the wonders and challenges of the Great Barrier Reef. As part of their studies, they investigated two major threats to this fragile ecosystem: coral bleaching and the crown-of-thorns starfish. Through research and discussion, students explored the causes and consequences of these issues, then brought their learning to life by creating engaging museum-style displays. These exhibits not only showcased their scientific understanding but also highlighted the importance of sustainability and the urgent need for environmental action. Students reflected on how human activity and climate change are impacting marine life, and considered ways we can all contribute to protecting our oceans for future generations.

Year 9 Oceanography – Exploring the Great Barrier Reef

Martina Manwaring
Teacher – Humanities and Social Sciences

Class of 2025: A Final Goodbye

This morning, we farewelled our Year 12 cohort with a graduation breakfast and their final whole-school assembly.

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Students arrived bright and early for a breakfast that had been lovingly prepared by our Home Economics department, hospitality students, and staff volunteers, who had been cooking the BBQ from the crack of dawn. The Year 12s made their way into the beautifully decorated theatre, where they took their seats to look over some gorgeous staff baby photos, reminding them that we were all young once! Students were presented with special, funny awards by their teachers to celebrate their antics over the six years at ASC, and the time had come for staff to farewell the class of 2025, finally.

The cohort made their way to the gym for their final whole-school assembly. The Year 12 band played a cover of the popular Michael Bublé song "Feeling Good," as covered by Muse, showcasing their incredible talent to the other students. College Captains Charlotte and Cameron said their farewell speech and presented the school with a gift of a piece of artwork for one of the new buildings at the college, before handing over the reins to Lilijana and Zak-David.

Following the Year 11 Guard of Honour, the Year 12s left campus for the final time, exiting the gates of Ashdale and entering the next chapter of their young adult life.

It has been an absolute pleasure to see this cohort graduate, and we wish them well in their future endeavours. Go out and make Ashdale proud!

Adam Esparon and Anaiya Dabasia
Year 12 Coordinators

Voluntary Contributions and Charges

Payment Instalments for 2026 Subject Selection Charges

Instalments are offered when paying for subject selection charges.  An advance payment of $50 (Yr 9 & 10) and $100 (Yr 11 & 12) was required upon subject selection. If you have not done so already, please make payment as soon as possible, as subject selections are not considered lodged until payment is received. If payment is not received, placement is not guaranteed, and the College may provide alternative course options.

Contributions and Charges

At Ashdale SC, we strive to provide quality teaching and learning experiences that empower our students to thrive, be successful lifelong learners and resilient, prosocial citizens, and therefore place great importance upon developing the whole child.

The Government provides funding to cover the cost of staff, facility maintenance, and basic resources, with funding dependent on various factors such as student numbers, socioeconomic aspects of the area, and student characteristics. At Ashdale SC, we enrich the educational experience for our students with funds collected through the Voluntary Contributions and Charges.

Funds collected from families are spent on a range of resources, including more specialised equipment and resources aimed at providing educational experiences that prepare students for the world beyond school.

The difference between ‘Contributions’ and ‘Charges’ 

Voluntary ‘Contributions’ are non-compulsory charges that the College can request from parents/carers. These contributions supplement the funding provided by the Government for delivering the courses across Years 7 - 10. We encourage all parents/carers to contribute to their student/s, $235 per year (less than $6 a week) is an investment that enhances your child’s learning opportunities. The payment of these costs will make a significant contribution to the quality of educational programs delivered. Payment of these costs is voluntary but encouraged and appreciated.

‘Charges’ are compulsory for all elective courses across Year 9 - 10 offered by the College and are not a component of the funding provided by the Government. All course costs for Years 11 and 12 are compulsory charges.

We wish to assure parents that the College Board approves all subject costs and all costings are accountable to the Department of Education.  Through consultation with the Finance Committee and College Board, these costs are kept as low as possible.

The following methods of payment are currently offered:

Preferred payment methods:

• Qkr! App – select Charges and Contributions and your child’s year group, and enter amount
• Direct Debit - Internet banking:  Commonwealth - BSB 066 040 - Account No 19901762

Other payment methods available:

• Credit card (MasterCard, Visa) made in person, by mail or by telephoning 62071300
• Cash or EFTPOS in person

Please get in touch with the office on 6207 1300 if you require further information regarding payment of contributions and charges, or if you wish to set up a payment plan.

Jo Pecnik
Manager Corporate Services