‘This is Notre Dame College’—students look back on their College’s inaugural year

Flourishing students

05 Nov 2025

From left to right: Year 7 students Mila and Harper. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Notre Dame College, Bells Creek (2025).

As the school year nears a close (Friday 5 December), two Notre Dame College, Bells Creek Year 7 students reflect on what it was like to be foundation students at Brisbane Catholic Education’s newest College.

While the College boasts state-of-the-art facilities, it’s the sense of welcome that has left a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of students in their first year.

Year 7 student Mila

Coming to Notre Dame College was amazing.

We all felt so welcomed, like we belong. It’s wonderful!

The support and care provided by our teachers is life changing.

Our teachers are so compassionate and care deeply about our education and wellbeing.

The year, has gone so fast because we’ve been engaged in so many new opportunities, from sport, to science, drama and more!

At Notre Dame, we are all family and live out our school values of Compassion, Courage, and Hope, which we refer to as ‘The Notre Dame Way.’

Each day we all feel invited and supported, creating a warm feeling in everyone’s hearts!

This is Notre Dame College.

Year 7 student Harper

Starting high school at a new school with new people, a new environment, and new experiences seemed scary to me at first.

I would even say terrifying -I knew no one!

Walking through those school gates for the first time made me feel nauseous from both excitement and anxiousness.

But I knew it would be the same feeling for most people.

But I was soon acquainted with the other Year 7 students who showed me so much kindness.

Before Notre Dame, I lacked confidence and the ability to express myself freely. Notre Dame has helped me grow in confidence in my social life and learning.

I never thought that I would call a school a family until Notre Dame, where everyone supports each other and we all take pride in being called Notre Dame students.

I know I do!

This past year was filled with heartfelt learning and thrilling adventures, and this year is one I’ll never forget.

All the learning I have done and opportunities I have embraced have made me see that Notre Dame will always be my home.

For more information about Notre Dame College, Bells Creek or to enrol click here.