baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.au | Sydney Catholic Schools - Part 2

About baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.au

This author has not yet filled in any details.
So far baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.au has created 69 blog entries.

Bethany College educator claims gold at VET awards

Cassie Bartels, Vocational Education and Training (VET) and External Pathways Coordinator at Bethany College Hurstville has clinched the gold.

She recently won Education Partner of the Year – Sydney Catholic Schools at the prestigious Partners in Excellence Awards, for outstanding contributions to VET work placement programs for our students across South-East Sydney.

Cassie’s approach is marked by meticulous preparation, ensuring her students thrive with the skills and confidence needed for successful work placements and post-school achievement in the workforce.

Like many educators across the Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) system, her journey into education follows a non-traditional path, uncovering a passion for teaching through extensive industry experience.

Cassie brings a wealth of practical knowledge from her background in hospitality, with roles in various cafes and restaurants adding a flavourful twist to her teaching style. She relishes the opportunity to share her own stories and experiences, which VET students can directly relate to.

“I aim to prepare students for their chosen pathways by providing them with real-life scenarios and practical skills. Work placement is a transformative experience for many students, offering them a unique glimpse into their desired industries,” Miss Bartels said.

Cassie oversees three VET subjects at Bethany College including Business Services, Hospitality and Entertainment.

Alongside supporting work placements, she also facilitates a range of additional VET courses available across the system through three SCS Trade Training Centres, and external partnerships such as TAFE NSW.

Bethany College’s VET programs reflect the wider offerings and programs available across the SCS system, providing students with state-of-the-art facilities and hands-on experiences.

“Our programs offer students not just experience that looks fantastic on a resume, but more importantly qualifications alongside their HSC.

“While on their work placement, some students receive job offers to start part-time …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auMay 30, 2024|

Former student returns as principal

From the tentative steps of a young girl to the confident stride of a respected leader, Gilda Pussich is again walking through the gates of her beloved secondary school, this time as its Principal.

As a former student at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College (OLSH) Kensington, it’s safe to assume her younger self would be deeply impressed with the important role she now plays.

She is taking her school into the future, inspiring and guiding today’s OLSH girls along their own journeys.

Joining OLSH at the start of Term 1 in 2024, Gilda brings over 13 years of experience as a principal, gained from highly successful tenures across the Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) system.

This wealth of unique experience positions Gilda well to lead OLSH, with a clear vision to uphold the school’s legacy while ushering in a new era of excellence.

“The education I received at OLSH was second to none and I want students to have the same opportunities that I was given at OLSH.

“My parents were not wealthy but due to my education here, I could have followed any path my heart desired. I chose to become a teacher and eventually became Principal,” Ms Pussich said.

And her top priority? Doing all she can to continue to strengthen the schools’ HSC position.

“We have a strong legacy of excellent outcomes, and we’re on a mission to continue to set high expectations and strive for success.

“We have a winning formula with the right staff and leadership team. The girls trust their teachers, who in turn believe in their abilities, and give them extra time and attention,” Ms Pussich explained.

A specialist in girls’ education, Gilda’s return to OLSH follows accomplished leadership roles as Principal …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auMay 29, 2024|

SCS debuts inspiring podcast with Australia’s biggest names

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) has launched a brand-new podcast ‘So You Want To Be…’, to inspire listeners by hearing from some of Australia’s most influential and successful people.

Each episode explores the lives of household names who are leading their respective fields, providing a rare insight into their unique journeys while sharing incredible advice.

In Episode One, Channel Nine’s Georgie Gardner gets season one underway as she reveals what it takes to make it as a journalist, and the scoop on pursuing a career in media.

We then explore the remarkable and diverse careers of Colin Fassnidge, Shelley Craft, Her Excellency Margaret Beazley, and five-time Paralympian, Ryley Batt.

Completing the lineup are emerging Bondi Rescue star Chase Hardaker, along with two of the nation’s most prominent and highly-regarded doctors, Dr Fiona Wood and Dr Randall Greenberg.

Along with a star-studded list of talent, each episode features an SCS student as a co-host who has a particular interest in the area of expertise being studied.

We unpack how these famous faces’ education, teachers, subjects and choices they made while they were at school, guided them towards their own unique path to success.

It’s a must-listen for those seeking insight into the starting points of their dream careers, with advice from those actively living them.

Through their inspiring stories, genuine wisdom, and reflections on seriously impressive careers, listeners are guided toward their own path to success.

Every installment links directly to a range of offerings that are exclusive to Sydney Catholic Schools, including programs across Literacy, STEM, Sport, and Vocational Education and Training.

The podcast isn’t just a fantastic listen for our students, but the whole family with tips, tricks and advice that can be applied to any …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auApril 30, 2024|

CEF Launches The Giving Circle

The Sydney Catholic Schools’ Catholic Education Foundation (CEF), has launched a new initiative called The Giving Circle.

Launched on International Women’s Day, the Giving Circle is an opportunity for inspiring and generous women and men to help young female students in need through the gift of a Catholic education.

Members will join the Giving Circle with a $1,000 tax deductible donation, and will meet each year to reflect on areas of community need and work together to provide a life-changing Catholic education for girls impacted by these challenges.

Foundational members have heard the call and have already made their contribution, and look forward to being joined by new members who share their vision. Ongoing networking, learning and socialising opportunities will be offered to Giving Circle members, who share a common passion for philanthropy and education.

CEF Supervisor, Kathleen Badolato, explains how planning for an International Women’s Day event inspired the launch of The Giving Circle.

“International Women’s Day shines a light on the empowerment of women and at the CEF, we believe one of the most powerful ways to do that is by providing an education to girls in need.

“Members of The Giving Circle, guided by their faith and values, will have the opportunity to give to female students and families who need it most and contribute to the CEF’s vision of making education accessible to all,” Ms Kathleen Badolato said.

“We have CEF bursary opportunities for students who are Indigenous, from foster backgrounds, have come to Australia as refugees, or are from families experiencing financial hardship.”

“Our goal is to have at least 1,000 members of the Giving Circle actively supporting female Catholic education within the next decade,” Ms Badolato said.

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auMarch 28, 2024|

Sydney Catholic Schools unveils dual-campus school in the heart of the city

In a bold move by Sydney Catholic Schools, St Mary’s Cathedral College, one of Australia’s oldest schools, is set to evolve as a dual-campus school with a second state-of-the-art Sydney campus being developed.

Located at 52-58 William Street, the new campus will see the conversion of a commercial office building into a state-of-the-art multi-storey learning centre. Undoubtedly, it stands as one of the premier locations for a school not just in Sydney, but perhaps across Australia. The vertical campus will include contemporary secondary spaces, seminar areas and facilities for the performing arts.

Celebrating its bicentenary this year, the college is expanding to meet the growing needs of its school community and will be a Kindergarten to Year 12 coeducational school. From 2025, the college will welcome both boys and girls from Kindergarten to Year 7.

In the long term the dual-campus will enable even more students across Sydney to take advantage of a high-quality inner-city education under the expert stewardship of Sydney Catholic Schools.

One of the colleges’ advantages is its proximity to Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD), which has resulted in the formation of partnerships with the city’s most recognisable and renowned institutions, including the Australian Museum and HEX High Accelerator Program.

Students will be minutes from the Art Gallery of NSW, the Australian Museum, Hyde Park Barracks, and The Botanic Gardens which provide an extension of their everyday learning and present an unparalleled opportunity to establish collaborative and reciprocal relationships with esteemed organisations and institutions spanning arts, business, the judiciary, and politics.

Tony Farley, Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools, highlights that the integration of a second campus also represents an exciting opportunity to expand the horizons of the students’ educational journey.

“This significant development will serve as a …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auFebruary 19, 2024|

200-year-old Sydney Catholic School undergoes transformation

Sydney Catholic Schools makes history as St Mary’s Cathedral College transforms to a Kindergarten through Year 12 coeducational model.

St Mary’s Cathedral College has announced that it will be accepting enrolments for both boys and girls for Kindergarten to Year 7 in the first school term of 2025.

The announcement follows community consultation and analysis that indicates a growing demand for high quality coeducational opportunities in the heart of Sydney.

The announcement comes at the beginning of St Mary’s Cathedral College’s Bicentennial year, having been founded in 1824.

Throughout its 200 year history the College has blazed a trail in education that has included the leadership of the Benedictine Monks, Marist Brothers, Sisters of Charity and Christian Brothers.

As a Cathedral College, St Mary’s has a particular focus on sacred music and has earned a reputation for being part of a world class Cathedral Choir that is known throughout the world.

Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools, Tony Farley described St Mary’s expansion to a Kindergarten to Year 12 coeducational College as ‘The next chapter in the story of an iconic Sydney Catholic School. The last group of young women to graduate from St Mary’s Cathedral College was in 1967 and this return to coeducation is both an evolution and reminder of our rich history and traditions.’

The decision to expand the College to a full kindergarten to year 12 coeducational college was a response to both parent demand and the stunning opportunities St Mary’s Cathedral College offered.

Mr Farley said for its students the ‘city was the classroom where within a few minutes walk they could visit the Australian Museum, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Hyde Park Barracks, State Library and NSW Parliament. Just …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auFebruary 19, 2024|

Four ways to nurture your child’s interest in the arts

Performing and visual arts present so many opportunities for students to experience, discover, experiment, and learn.

Here are four ways to nurture your child’s interest as they develop a passion for creativity – and the life skills and confidence that come with it.

Build their confidence

Whether their curiosity leans towards drama, art, music, dance, or other forms of creative expression, there is great value in helping children to embrace their natural talent.

Manager of Creative and Performing Arts at Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS), Danielle Fuller, has worked in the creative and performing arts industry for more than 30 years as an educator, director, musician, and performer.

Danielle said the best way to encourage a child who shows an interest in the arts is to encourage them to get involved in creative activities, giving them time and space to develop their confidence within their chosen activity.

“Children are innately curious and will enthusiastically engage in creative play if given the opportunity,” she said.

“It is through creative expression that a child’s emotional wellbeing is supported.” – Danielle Fuller

Lead with positivity

Communication and expression are two ways children react to what they see, hear and experience.

As they develop their thoughts, feelings and ideas it is important that they receive positive feedback from those around them.

“Praising them is important and enabling them to find the area that they feel most confident in is also important,” Mrs Fuller said.

“Parents can support this at home through positive language, listening and discussing the challenges.”

“One of the best times to encourage children to continue learning is at the times when they are unsure about their skills. Talent helps them to build resilience and …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auNovember 27, 2023|

What to look for in a quality gifted education offering

A strong gifted education program can provide a range of opportunities for students whose natural abilities place them in the top 10 per cent of their peer group.

With so much information available in the gifted education space, identifying a gifted child can be challenging, and knowing how to support them can be even more difficult.

Here are guidelines to help you identify if a gifted education program is suitable for your child.

Is your child curious, creative, extremely focused on an area of interest?

Do they learn new ideas or skills quickly and easily, display a good memory, or enjoy thinking in complex ways?

If any of these qualities sound familiar to you, you may have a gifted or high-ability child on your hands.

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Manager: Curriculum and Innovation, Jacinta Russo explains that while there is no single measure of giftedness, it is common for gifted students to demonstrate reasoning abilities beyond their age.

“Signs of giftedness could include demonstrating advanced speech, reading, mathematical ability, advanced humour or logical reasoning ability at an early age,” said Ms Russo.

“A gifted child might show an ability to retain and recall detailed information, to think critically or philosophically well before their peers.” – Jacinta Russo

Various assessments can provide schools with additional information to consider alongside certain behaviours you might have observed in your child, helping in the recognition of gifted students.

Identification, differentiation, and extensive support

A high-quality gifted education program will accurately find your child’s strengths and adjust learning to develop their talents, as well as provide support in areas where they may need help.

“A strong gifted education program supports both the academic and social and emotional aspects of giftedness,” said

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auNovember 27, 2023|

Supporting Refugee Students with the Gift of a Catholic Education

The philanthropic division of Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS), the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF), recently achieved a remarkable fundraising milestone of raising over $12,000 for its Refugee Bursary program.

In support of the CEF, more than 100 employees from SCS’s World Square office participated in the ‘Walk for a Refugee’ initiative, aimed at increasing awareness and raising much-needed funds to provide refugee students with the opportunity to access a Catholic education.

Volodymyr, a Year 5 student at Regina Coeli Catholic Primary School Beverly Hills, is among the refugee students receiving ongoing assistance from the CEF.

Hailing from conflict-ridden Ukraine, Volodymyr, along with his two sisters and mother, relocated to Australia seeking refuge from the war and aiming for a brighter future.

During this period, the CEF provided direct assistance to Volodymyr and his sisters to study at Regina Coeli Catholic Primary School, where dedicated and hard-working educators deliver a strong faith-based education.

“The CEF gave me a scholarship so I could receive the opportunity to learn here in Australia.

“Because we are part of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, my parents wanted me to study with children who have a similar religious background to me, learn by God’s example and have faith in everything I do,” Volodymyr said.

The CEF’s assistance for Volodymyr goes well beyond covering his tuition fees.

A portion of the funds generated from the ‘Walk for a Refugee’ initiative was allocated to purchase a MacBook Pro, providing additional support for his educational journey.

CEF Supervisor, Kathleen Badolato elaborates on why such a significant number of the wider SCS team passionately support its initiatives.

“Our staff are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to the lives of students that we work for every day, and bond as …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auNovember 27, 2023|

TAS Teachers Empower Tomorrow’s Innovators

Two impressive Technological and applied studies (TAS) teachers at Freeman Catholic College Bonnyrigg Heights, are pursuing life-long passions for woodwork and food technology in the classroom.

From Sydney Catholic Schools’ student to teacher

Alessandrio Lettieri, one of Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Technology Teachers, has a rich history and familial ties in construction.

His journey from hands-on work with his father to excelling at BESIX Watpac, the company behind the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai, laid the foundation for his teaching career.

“It’s fantastic to take everything I learned in construction and then apply the same critical-thinking and problem-solving back into an actual subject.

“My students are the future innovators of the world. I try as much as possible to bring real-life experiences into the classroom to assist students with making their studies a career path they can actively use,” Mr Alessandrio Lettieri said.

An alumnus of Freeman Catholic College, Mr Lettieri’s journey has gone full circle, and he still draws on his experiences growing up in SCS.

“I was always taught to be a good person, compassionate, and respectful which flowed on through high school,” Mr Lettieri said.

Mr Lettieri has a long history of excelling in TAS subjects both as a student and teacher. For his Year 12 Major Work, he built a woodwork model of Disney’s Wall-E which was showcased at the Powerhouse Museum.

“Today the Wall-E model is still displayed in the office here at Freeman Catholic College.”

Mr Lettieri’s Year 12 Major Work woodwork model of Disney’s Wall-E

“I regularly use it as an example for students to explain …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auNovember 16, 2023|

From refugee to advocate: Thang’s journey in support of an inspiring cause

For Thang Phan, a Project Officer within Sydney Catholic Schools’ Vocational Education and Training (VET) team, the Catholic Education Foundation’s (CEF) Refugee Bursary initiative resonates deeply.

The CEF continues to ensure that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access to a quality Catholic education with its Refugee Bursary providing invaluable support to families who have fled their countries of origin in search of a better life here in Australia.

One of the initiatives top fundraisers, Thang was born in Vietnam, a country left deeply scarred in the aftermath of war.

“I was a refugee along with my entire family. My family’s decision to leave Vietnam was driven by a desire for a better future for their children,” Mr Thang Phan said.

In the midst of a nation ravaged by the consequences of war, Thang’s parents managed to gather their nine children onto a small fishing boat, determined to escape the confines of their homeland.

Thang’s recollections of this harrowing journey are blurred by his age at the time. He was merely five years old when they set sail in the late 1970s, alongside countless others looking for refuge.

His family’s destination was Hong Kong, where they would spend two years in a refugee camp before finding acceptance in the United Kingdom.

In England, Thang’s new life began to take shape. It was a challenging time for his family, grappling with a foreign language and adapting to an unfamiliar environment.

Charities and local religious organisations, much like the CEF, played a pivotal role in their settlement, providing essential support including shelter, clothing, and education.

“I don’t think we could have survived on our own. We were given housing and everything from clothing to furniture was …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auNovember 13, 2023|

Celebrating excellence at the Olympics for Vocational Skills

Nothing short of a transformative experience that shapes vocational futures

In August, Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) students were given the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery in various trade skills at the 2023 WorldSkills Australia National Championships in Melbourne.

Eight talented students represented SCS at this years’ tournament, demonstrating their passion for and dedication to diverse industries including Automotive, Commercial Cookery, Electrotechnology, Hairdressing, Information Technology, and Plumbing.

Four of these students emerged as medal winners, showcasing the depth of talent within Vocational Education and Training (VET) across SCS:

Claudia Walker from Marist Sisters College Woolwich achieved the gold medal in Kitchen Operations.
George Tsopel from Marist Catholic College Kogarah triumphed with the silver medal in Electrotechnology (course delivered at St Yon Trade Training Centre).
Felix Gonzalez from Freeman Catholic College Bonnyrigg Heights secured the silver medal in Automotive (course delivered at St Joseph Trade Skills Centre).
Jessica Nieradka from Trinity Catholic College Auburn earned the bronze medal in Hairdressing (course delivered at Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood).

WorldSkills not only highlights the ongoing success (VET) offerings across SCS, the competition also paves the way for promising career pathways for the next generation of trainees and apprentices.

Mary Bancks, Education Officer – Vocational Education, explains how WorldSkills brings together students from diverse vocational backgrounds to compete in a wide range of …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auAugust 30, 2023|

Tasmyn discovers calling officiating adaptive sports

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Tasmyn Haynes has a remarkable tale of unexpected entry into the world of wheelchair rugby officiating and discovering her calling in the thrilling realm of adaptive sports – sports that are modified to allow people with physical and sometimes mental disabilities to participate.

A St Christopher’s Catholic Primary School Panania alumni and hailing from a basketball background, Ms Haynes set off on the 31 August 2023 to referee the New Zealand Nationals in Christchurch.

There she was awarded her international badge, a step closer to her dream of refereeing at the Paralympics.

Presently serving as the Digital and Social Content Officer for Sydney Catholic Schools, Ms Haynes’ role encompasses the daily coverage and promotion of a multitude of sports across all skill levels.

She takes pride in her involvement within a vast system of 147 schools, which offers individuals with disabilities the chance to cultivate a passion for sports – an opportunity that often eludes many of their peers until well after their school years.

Ms Haynes initially assisted in basketball officiating and bench duties, where she met a colleague who was involved in wheelchair rugby.

It was 2018 and the Wheelchair Rugby World Championship in Australia was fast approaching, and Ms Haynes was asked to assist with the bench at the upcoming championships.

“As I watched my first game, I was completely captivated and quickly fell in love with the sport,” Ms Tasmyn Haynes said.

The chance to officiate at the 2018 World Championship marked the start of an extraordinary journey that has led Ms Haynes to become an advocate for fairness, inclusivity, and the sheer power of determination within the sports community.

A source of immense pride, Ms Hayne’s journey is intertwined with …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auAugust 28, 2023|

Gezel’s meteoric rise to singing stardom on The Voice

The journey to stardom is often filled with unexpected twists, remarkable experiences, and the discovery of one’s unique voice.

St Raphael’s Catholic Primary School South Hurstville student Gezel, an exceptionally talented young singer, is currently making waves on the latest season of The Voice Australia as the youngest contestant ever.

At just 12 years old, she has managed to captivate the hearts of audiences and judges alike with her powerful performances and undeniable stage presence.

Gezel’s journey on The Voice began with a leap of faith and an unwavering passion for music. In a recent interview, she shared how her journey to the show was inspired by her family’s encouragement and her own love for the art form.

“I’ve been watching The Voice since I was really little. My family and I have always talked about me entering the competition and what a great experience it would be,” Gezel said.

One of the most striking aspects of Gezel’s participation in The Voice is her age. In an era where the minimum age requirements for singing competitions are usually around 15 years of age, Gezel’s presence as one of the youngest contestants globally is groundbreaking.

Her journey underscores the power of passion and determination, defying conventional age limits.

Gezel’s love of performing has been nurtured both inside and outside the classroom. She shared how Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) has been supportive of her artistic pursuits.

“I had previously only performed in front of a live audience eight times before my first audition on The Voice.

“One of these performances was with SCS for a musical showcase at Qudos Bank Arena, where I had the chance to perform in a stadium that holds 11,000 people,” Gezel said.

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but Gezel …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auAugust 28, 2023|

SCS and Pacific Opera unite for Australian premiere

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) has partnered with Pacific Opera to give students the opportunity to perform spiritually enriching music in a unique and professional setting.

In July, students from SCS were invited to perform at the Australian premiere of internationally renowned composer Paul Carr’s ‘Requiem for an Angel’.

Taking place within the beautiful St Francis of Assisi’s Catholic Church in Paddington, the performance provided SCS students with the unique opportunity to learn and partner with industry professionals and enhance their artistic development journey.

The partnership marks the first time SCS and Pacific Opera have joined forces. It offered students an unrivalled experience of immersing themselves in contemporary choral music, a deeply felt expression of their faith in God.

Artistic Advisor to SCS, Matthew Barclay has championed the collaboration and explained how the partnership offers a high-quality artistic development experience to guide students.

“Pacific Opera is a small but long-established and respected organisation. Their artistic leaders bring a wealth of experience, presenting the perfect partnership to showcase the exceptional talent within our schools.

“This is an opportunity for us to give our students real world experience and in turn, demonstrates what they have to offer to the industry. Students learn to extend their vocal techniques and sing in a challenging style that goes well beyond their typical repertoire.”

“We are committed to developing young talent and Sydney Catholic Schools arts programs act as a feeding ground for the next generation of exceptional singers and performers,” Mr Matthew Barclay said.

SCS students were invited to sit in on orchestral rehearsals, with a select number of exceptionally talented students joining the orchestra and choir.

This culminated in two performances at St Francis of …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auAugust 23, 2023|

Former Freeman Catholic College student signs with German football powerhouse Bayern Munich

Former Freeman Catholic College student, Anthony Pavlesic, is set to kick off his European football career this month after signing a coveted multi-year deal with German Bundesliga powerhouse FC Bayern Munich.

At just 17, Anthony has already demonstrated his potential and determination to succeed in the highly competitive world of international football, where he will thrive in his position as goalkeeper.

The former Sydney Catholic Schools student is an extraordinary talent, already making significant strides in the footsteps of Australia’s most accomplished Socceroos players.

Anthony is set to join an illustrious list of Australian football stars, who made household names for themselves on Europe’s biggest sporting stage.

“Two of my biggest sporting heroes are Mathew Ryan and Mark Schwarzer. Both players were goalkeepers for the Socceroos who played in the European Premier League and achieved so much on one of sports’ biggest international stages,” Mr Anthony Pavlesic said.

Already standing at an impressive 190cm, Anthony has repeatedly drawn comparisons to current Socceroos captain and goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, especially in the way he carries himself both on and off the field.

Melinda Melham, Principal at Freeman Catholic College, explains how the school encourages all students to pursue their talents, whether that be in sport, creative arts, debating or music.

“We are very fortunate to have teachers who support the co-curricula life of the college. Our coaches support students pursuing various sporting endeavours, with many competing at representative levels outside of school.

“It’s important that students understand the importance of working hard so they can pursue their opportunities in sport, drama or music whilst maintaining dedication to their studies,” Mrs Melinda Melham said.

When asked how Freeman Catholic College has contributed to the successful young man he is today, Anthony explains the important role his schooling and …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auJuly 27, 2023|

Schools in Sutherland Shire primed for HSC success

Two Sydney Catholic Schools in the Sutherland Shire are increasing the number of teachers with specialised knowledge and expertise to ensure students are well equipped for HSC success.

As Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer (Girls) and De La Salle Catholic College Caringbah (Boys) expand to include Year 11 in 2024, exciting new opportunities and career pathways are being introduced.

Joining the school in 2024 will be HSC markers and supervisors, exam authors and contributors, and experienced HSC teachers.

These new teachers bring with them a wealth of HSC knowledge and proven track records of fostering student success in the senior years.

Providing this high level of bespoke support, teachers will act as mentors and drive an academic focus supported by extensive levels of coaching and mentoring.

An HSC Enrichment Program will further drive personalised attention. The program encompasses three integrated modes of student support including individual academic mentoring, wellbeing catch ups and dedicated social opportunities.

This places both colleges in an outstanding position to provide the best support to HSC students, making the final two years of secondary school personally rewarding and an enriching experience.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Director of System Performance, Kevin Carragher, is confident that students will be provided the support they need to maximise their potential during the pivotal HSC years.

“We are providing students with the opportunity to excel academically and cultivate essential life skills as they journey into adulthood.

“Students will feel empowered to achieve their individual goals regardless of their academic ambitions and be assisted every step of the way as they work towards making their dreams a reality,” Mr Kevin Carragher said.

Leonie Pearce, Principal at Our …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auJuly 24, 2023|

CHALLENGING CONVENTIONS WITH TRAILBLAZING MUSIC EDUCATION PROGRAM

A recently released report, Fading Notes, demonstrates diminishing levels of music education within generalist primary teaching degrees.

The report, commissioned by Alberts | The Tony Foundation for the Music: Right from the Start initiative, highlights how music education training for generalist primary school teachers has fallen from an average of 17 hours in 2009 to eight by the end of 2022.

One of the key recommendations from the report is the need to raise awareness of the lack of fair access Australian students currently have to quality music teaching in schools.

Sydney Catholic Schools is actively fulfilling this recommendation and challenging conventions, with its Amadeus Music Education Program to place 52,000 instruments in the hands of Year 3 to 8 students.

The program has already seen successful launches at more than 98 Sydney Catholic Schools, and its availability will expand to all 147 schools by 2024.

Sydney Catholic Schools believes music education should be accessible for all students and not just for the privileged.

The Amadeus program is one of the biggest, most comprehensive and ambitious investments in quality music education ever undertaken in Sydney’s schools and will be led by 80 school classroom music teachers and 270 specialist music tutors.

The sheer scale of Amadeus and number of music teachers involved, further highlights recommendations in the report that advocate for more K-12 teaching degrees with music specialisations.

The benefits of a quality music education are immense for all students, contributing to enhanced brain function, personal wellbeing and overall development.

“Music is an important part of life through which we express ourselves as human beings – it brings communities together, creates joy and stimulates the brain and the senses,” Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools, Tony Farley, said.

“We decided that …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auJuly 19, 2023|

How a Sydney Music Teacher is Instilling Her Passion

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Amadeus Music Education Program continues to gain momentum at an unprecedented scale as one of the most comprehensive and ambitious investments to enrich the musical experiences and opportunities for Sydney students.

The program is delivered by accomplished educators whose dedication to being consummate musicians themselves fuels their passion for inspiring and nurturing the next generation of young talent.

One of these educators is Julia Pokorny, a dedicated music teacher at St Michael’s Catholic Primary School Belfield and Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School Cabramatta.

Outside of school, Ms Pokorny performs as an accomplished musician for the Sydney Contemporary Orchestra, Bourbaki Orchestra and Strathfield Symphony.

“I believe in the transformative power of music. Every child should have the opportunity to learn an instrument and experience the confidence and joy that music brings, regardless of their background,” Julia Pokorny said.

The launch of the Amadeus program at 147 Sydney Catholic Schools has only further heightened Ms Pokorny’s enthusiasm for teaching music.

She continues to feel fulfilled as she witnesses the joy and progress of her students.

“The future of music education is programs like Amadeus. As they continue to thrive, the lasting impacts on students’ lives are invaluable,” Ms Pokorny said.

Her involvement in orchestras has provided Ms Pokorny with a unique training ground, honing her skills and preparing her for challenges which she today shares with students to positively influence what she hopes will be a lifelong devotion.

“My passion for both performing and teaching fuels an enthusiasm that helps me bring a unique perspective to the classroom and further fosters my understanding of each of my students’ unique learning styles,” Julia Pokorny said.

Ms Pokorny’s journey into the …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auOctober 3, 1992|