Isabell Petrinic | Sydney Catholic Schools

WATCH NOW: Major announcement about Sydney Catholic Schools

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) today launched the Amadeus Music Education Program, which is putting 52,000 instruments in the hands of year 3 to 8 students across SCS’ 150 schools. If you missed the announcement, you can still watch it via the live link below.

This game changing program will provide 33,000 students with classroom music lessons, ensemble lessons and small group tuition and will be led by more than 80 school classroom music teachers and 270 specialist music tutors. Read more here: bit.ly/3kMUO2K

Isabell PetrinicNovember 17, 2021|

Lockdown Arts Festival: Family fun wins

The drama and dance winning entries in Sydney Catholic Schools’ Lockdown Arts Festival Family category came with a dose of humour and a telling soundtrack.

A dance by Paul George, Cicily Ponnor and their daughters Gemma and Alexa, who attend St Therese Catholic Primary School Sadleir-Miller, was one of 900 creative works submitted by Sydney Catholic Schools’ students, families and staff during the festival.

Their winning dance was a reenactment of one of the most iconic movie songs, Bee Gees’ “Stayin Alive” from the hugely successful soundtrack to Saturday Night Fever.

Year 4 student at Galilee Catholic Primary School Bondi, Cormac Maher, won the Drama Family Submission category for “I See Red”, which involved his entire family – even the dog!

STAYIN ALIVE

Mr George said the festival was an opportunity for his family to change the monotonous home routine during lockdown and to lead by example.

“It was a great opportunity to get the kids to focus on each of their creative strengths, challenge themselves and realise that they have potential” – Paul George

“We also felt it was the easiest way to encourage the kids to get involved in some creative activity when we as parents are involved,” he said.

“We’re feeling very grateful and glad that we took the effort to participate.”

Alexa and Gemma took the opportunity to enter multiple categories of the festival, and discovered new skills along the way.

“There was cross pollination in the learning environment thanks to the arts festival,” Mr George said.

“Alexa’s monologue entry was inspired from the learning material that Gemma was handling in her English class at St Therese Primary on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

“Gemma is generally a shy girl, so it was great to see her coming out of her shell. She was also motivated to submit entries …

Isabell PetrinicNovember 10, 2021|

CaSPA alumna debut single

CaSPA Sydney alumna Julia Ivory debut single, ‘To the Bone’, explores the under discussed topic of anorexia nervosa.

The song eloquently addresses the artist’s personal struggles over the past few years, and of “feeling locked in my own mind”.

“I found myself turning to my music in my darkest times,” Julia explained.

“I wrote this song in the middle of the night at my piano to calm down, and it all poured out.

“My recovery is a part of who I am, and I am not doing my job if I can’t shed light on what I’ve experienced” – Julia Ivory

“I want people to know there is a way out of it (anorexia nervosa) and you can recover,” Julia said.

The road to stardom

The talented 2019 St Ursula’s College Kingsgrove graduate co-wrote and co-produced the single with her mentor and former CaSPA tutor, Philippe-Marc Anquetil.

“CaSPA gave me my first recording experience in the recording studio at Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood, and got me looking at the production side as well” – Julia Ivory

Philippe-Marc said Julia joined the CaSPA family in 2013 as an 11 year old, performing an incredibly mature rendition of ‘The Prayer’ in its Have You Got Talent event.

“She continued on as a regular cast member of the CaSPA vocal ensemble, singer-songwriter ensemble and the Youth Ministry Band,” he said.

“It has been a privilege to watch her grow and develop her talent with integrity and honesty” – Philippe-Marc Anquetil

“We cannot wait to continue to follow her rise,” Philippe-Marc said.

Creative from the get-go

Julia’s musical journey began in Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School Kingsgrove, when her Year 1 teacher recognised her incredible singing ability and spoke to her parents about it.

“As a little girl, I sang in the choir a lot, which helped me learn to harmonise; this experience …

Isabell PetrinicNovember 3, 2021|

HSC is music to their ears

They’re no strangers to the discipline and commitment it takes to succeed after singing in Australia’s oldest musical ensemble – St Mary’s Cathedral Choir – from age 10.

Meet the four St Mary’s Cathedral Choir Scholars who continue to strike the balance between their chosen creative outlet and school life in their HSC year.

The Choir Scholars are an elite choral ensemble made up of students in Years 8 to 12 at St Mary’s Cathedral College Sydney, who elect to continue their singing commitment once their voices move from the treble of a chorister to an alto, baritone or tenor.

They give about eight hours each week to rehearsals and Cathedral liturgies, including Wednesday night Vespers. For concerts and major feast days they join forces with the main Cathedral Choir.

They have toured internationally, cementing all the skills expected of a professional musician.

“Juggling HSC and choir teaches you a lot of organisational skills” – Antonio Guarino

MEET THE CHOIR SCHOLARS

Dylan Ford, Antonio Guarino, Reilly Bashall and Marciano Flammia joined St Mary’s Cathedral College – and the St Mary’s Cathedral Choir – in Year 5.

Two now hold school leadership positions. All four are studying Music for their HSC and say the skills they have learned through the choir program have helped in the subject.

Dylan Ford

“The singing lessons we do through the Cathedral help us with our practical exams,” said Dylan, who is also the college’s music captain.

“Going in, you don’t know what the commitment is like but you see the image and it’s exciting,” he said.

“As you go through the years you get used to the process and fall in love with it” – Dylan Ford

“There’s a sort of passion that has to be there for us to spend so much time in the choir.

“We toured Belgium and that was pretty exciting. But it’s just …

Isabell PetrinicOctober 26, 2021|

Wellbeing: The Sydney Catholic Schools approach

A legacy of care unique to Catholic education has laid the foundations for a robust and positive approach to wellbeing at Sydney Catholic Schools.

A HISTORY OF PASTORAL CARE

Catholic schools became synonymous with pastoral care in the 1980s when many adopted the work of Marist Brother and member of Little Brothers of Mary (FMS), Brother Kevin Treston.

The educator and author’s book, Pastoral Care for Schools, quickly became favoured for its philosophy of care across all aspects of school life.

It asked teachers to recognise and develop each child’s individual gifts and emphasised forming positive relationships.

Pastoral care is the integration of the academic, social and religious dimensions of a school so that an atmosphere of care prevails within the school community.

“Pastoral Care was a marker of Catholic school; then, with the emphasis on mental health and wellbeing, the language changed,” said Sydney Catholic Schools’ Manager: Student Wellbeing and Learning, Stephen Said.

“Pastoral care included making sure that every child had a friend, they weren’t bullied and there was peer support available.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Manager: Student Wellbeing and Learning, Stephen Said.

“As we’ve become more vigilant to mental health needs, the field of wellbeing has got even more rigour about it” – Stephen Said

“Today, under a wellbeing focus, we have staff who are registered mental health practitioners with various qualifications in counselling, social work and psychology,” Mr Said explained.

“The Student Wellbeing Team also consists of educators with extensive knowledge and experience in maintaining the positive relationships that underpin learning and a cohesive family life.

“Wellbeing and positive relationships are seen as integral to learning.

“When referring to pastoral care and wellbeing one has really morphed into the other.

“But we can very confidently say that Catholic schools have a long tradition in pastoral care that has served our …

Isabell PetrinicOctober 21, 2021|

Wellbeing and learning after COVID lockdown

Feeling anxious about the return to school after COVID lockdown? You’re not alone.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Wellbeing Team have reinforced teachers’ readiness to guide students back to classroom routines, with resources on topics including anxiety, gaming addiction and resources to support wellbeing at school and at home.

THE IMPACT OF LOCKDOWN

By the time face-to-face learning resumes – on Monday, 18 October for Kindies, Years 1 and 12 and Monday, 25 October for everyone else – students will have been out of the classroom for four whole months.

Students, parents and teachers have experienced significant changes in routine and lifestyle since lockdown, and estimates of anxiety are double pre-pandemic rates.

“As we return to school it’s important we help staff, parents and students to feel confident and safe,” said Sydney Catholic Schools’ Manager: Student Wellbeing and Learning, Stephen Said.

“It’s acknowledging that this has been a difficult time and we need to support and to look out for each other” – Stephen Said

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT IN OUR SCHOOLS

A Headspace survey of more than 3,500 young people during the June 2020 pandemic showed 86 per cent reported a negative impact on mood, wellbeing and sleep.

And according to Mr Said, parents can take heart that many protective factors to enhance positive mental health can be found in their child’s school.

These include social support from friends or adults, positive relationships with teachers, academic engagement, community cohesion and links with cultural identity.

RETURN TO SCHOOL STRATEGIES

Mr Said explained that students were likely very excited to reconnect with their peers and friends at school.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Manager: Student Wellbeing and Learning, Stephen Said.

To support this return to school, …

Isabell PetrinicOctober 20, 2021|

Getting ready to return to school

Held on COVID ‘Freedom Day’, Sydney Catholic Schools’ latest Family Forum focused on how Sydney Catholic schools are supporting our students’ transition back to school during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Titled The Road Back to Face-to-Face Learning, more than 2,000 people tuned in to Sydney Catholic Schools’ third live, online Family Forum.

“We can’t wait to have our students back in the classroom” – Executive Director, Tony Farley

Hosted by Sydney Catholic Schools’ Executive Director, Tony Farley, and featuring Dr Jacqueline Frost, Chief of Staff, and Dr Kate O’Brien, Director of Education and Research, Kevin Carragher, Director of Systems Performance, and four Principals, the Family Forum centred on four key areas of the transition.

The Term 4 online Family Forum in progress.

These were: environmental, including managing current COVID-19 restrictions; academic; social; and family.

There was a Primary and a Secondary session.

THE ROAD BACK TO FACE-TO-FACE LEARNING

“We know that our family community has concerns about the changes, so we needed to offer our families the opportunity to hear from Sydney Catholic Schools and its many experts on what they can do to support their children during the transition,” Mr Farley said.

During the forum Principals Linda McFadden (St Ambrose Catholic Primary School Concord West), Peter Cranney (St Declan’s Catholic Primary School Penshurst), James Corcoran (Good Samaritan Catholic College Hinchinbrook) and Melinda Melham (Assistant Principal of Mount Saint Joseph Catholic College Milperra and newly appointed principal of Freeman Catholic College Bonnyrigg Heights for 2022) talked about the importance of managing the social and emotional and academic needs of Sydney Catholic Schools’ students.

The forum outlined the steps the schools are taking to socially reintegrate students into the school community …

Isabell PetrinicOctober 15, 2021|

Register NOW: Term 4 Family Forum

As we begin transitioning back to the classroom this term, Sydney Catholic Schools is pleased to be shortly holding its next Family Forum, focusing on The Road Back to Face-to-Face Learning.

“We can’t wait to have our students back in the classroom, but we understand there will be some concerns and uncertainty about the transition back to face-to-face learning amongst some of our students and families,” our Executive Director, Tony Farley, said.

“We want to do everything we can to support our students through this period and ensure that the road back to face-to-face learning puts our students’ needs at the centre” – Tony Farley

“All our schools are actively working on plans to support our students’ academic, social and emotional transition and to ensure the return to school is a safe and positive experience for all,” Mr Farley said.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ second Family Forum focused on student wellbeing and mental health.

The Road Back

Hosted by our Executive Director, Tony Farley, the Forum on Monday, 11 October will cover what to expect during the back-to-school transition and how you can best support your child’s learning and wellbeing through this period and beyond.

There will be two sessions on the night: a Primary session at 5:30pm, and a Secondary session at 6:30pm.

“The education of our children is a partnership and these Forums are just one of the ways we want to engage our community of parents and carers so we can work together to support our children at school and at home,” Mr Farley said.

“As with the previous Forums, during this 30-minute session you will have the opportunity to guide the conversation through our live polling questions. We hope you will tune in!” REGISTER NOW

In …

Isabell PetrinicSeptember 28, 2021|

Watch it NOW: Sydney Catholic Schools’ first Virtual Choir

A creative response to singing restrictions at the height of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic has united the voices of 260 Sydney Catholic Schools students and staff and prompted an exploration of new modes to engage its school communities in the arts.

A virtual choir video clip – which shows students from Kindergarten to Year 12, staff, teachers, parents and alumni singing Christian hymn ‘For the Beauty of the Earth’ by John Rutter in unison online – was officially launched on Sydney Catholic Schools’ Facebook page on Friday 17 September.

Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools, Tony Farley – also part of the choir – said the video premier highlights the unity it inspired at a time when many worked in isolation.

Our joyful hymn of praise

“I am delighted that the simple act of singing for this project has created something so joyous and inspired such collaboration among our staff,” Mr Farley said.

“The resulting video is a beautiful reminder of the agility of our educators and the knowledge, skills and positivity they bring to the challenge of educating more than 70,000 students amid the ever-changing measures in NSW to contain the spread of COVID-19” – Tony Farley

Sydney Catholic Schools’ creative and performing arts specialist, Eva Spata, said some staff and students were invited to record their part in the project in Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood’s professional recording studio under strict COVID-19 guidelines.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ specialist in the creative and performing arts, Eva Spata.

“The virtual choir was an opportunity for our community to sing together when they had not had a chance to for so long due to COVID restrictions,” Ms Spata said.

“This song was …

Isabell PetrinicSeptember 20, 2021|

What every child needs right now

In National Child Protection Week, psychologist Sandra Reynolds discusses the changing face of ‘neighbourhood’ during COVID-19 and how to support your child’s wellbeing at this time.

This year’s National Child Protection Week (5-11 September) theme is: Every child, in every community, needs a fair go.

And, according to event organiser the National Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN), to treat all of Australia’s children fairly, we need to make sure that every neighbourhood has what kids need to thrive and be healthy.

But has the COVID-19 lockdown reshaped how families and children think about neighbourhoods and our feelings of connectedness?

The answer is a clear and resounding yes.

‘AS HUMANS, WE CRAVE SOCIAL INTERACTIONS’

“School is such an important part of a child’s life and it provides access not only to education but so many other areas of social and emotional development,” says Sydney Catholic Schools’ Supervisor: Child Safety, Sandra Reynolds.

“Friendships with peers and positive relationships with teachers influence the experiences of students during the course of their education.

“As humans, we crave social interaction and the need to be connected is hardwired in our DNA.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ psychologist, Sandra Reynolds. Photo: Kitty Beale

“Changing our routine and mode of operation to remote learning requires a level of retraining of our brains to derive the same level of connectedness in a physically non-connected world.”

SO, WHAT MAKES A ‘HEALTHY’ NEIGHBOURHOOD?

“Connectedness is one element of a healthy neighbourhood; other necessary elements include safe places to play and explore in, a balance of nature and accessible services,” explains Ms Reynolds.

“If we consider that for the majority of time during lockdown, we are being asked to make our …

Isabell PetrinicSeptember 9, 2021|

Afghan refugees Q&A, concert

Sydney Catholic Schools invites all our families, students and staff to come together online on Friday 10 September to ‘Raise Your Hands for Afghanistan’ and help promote awareness of Archbishop Anthony Fisher’s Afghan Refugee Appeal.

“All too often we see tragic stories on the news and wonder how we can help,” said Sydney Catholic Schools’ Director of Mission and Identity, Anthony Cleary.

“The establishment of the Archbishop’s Afghan Refugee Appeal is a practical way of supporting people in need.

“Learn more about this appeal, and the people it will help, this Friday evening – it’s time to ‘Raise Your Hands for Afghanistan’.”

Live Q&A and Concert

Hosted by the Justice and Peace Office with support from Sydney Catholic Schools, Friday’s virtual event will begin with a live Zoom webinar question & answer (Q&A) from 7pm-7.30pm featuring:

Fr Peter Smith from the Justice and Peace Office, the social justice arm of the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney;
Refugee women’s rights advocate Hava Rezaie, a mother, former Director of Women’s Affairs in the Afghan Provincial Government of Daikundi, and advisory committee member of Jesuit Refugee Services Australia’s Finding Safety Project; and
Director of the Edmund Rice Centre, human rights advocate and educator Phil Glendenning.

A live concert featuring Fr Rob Galea, also known as The Singing Priest, will follow from 7.30pm-8pm. JOIN VIA THIS ZOOM WEBINAR LINK

The Zoom link will become live on the night. No registration is required.

“This appeal will not only raise needed funds but also give those who need it access to healthcare, education and welfare support as they make …

Isabell PetrinicSeptember 7, 2021|

Draw your neighbourhood art project

Child friendly neighbourhoods portrayed through art were the focus of Sydney Catholic Schools’ 2021 National Child Protection Week art competition.

The art competition was organised by Sydney Catholic Schools’ Supervisor: Child Safety, Sandra Reynolds, to coincide with the National Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect’s (NAPCAN) annual Child Protection Week (5-11 September).

Sophia De Paoli’s winning entry.

“Sydney Catholic Schools’ art competition invited schools to talk to their students about their neighbourhoods and then ask them to draw or paint an artwork that reflected their views,” Ms Reynolds said. Participation was wholly voluntary.

Leanne Trinh’s runner-up entry.

“Congratulations to Year 5 student Sophia De Paoli, from Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School Carnes Hill, for her wonderful artwork and being our winner,” Ms Reynolds said.

The runners-up were: Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School Kingsgrove Year 6 School Captain, Leanne Trinh, and Holy Spirit Carnes Hill Year 4 student, Charlotte Gauci.

Charlotte Gauci’s runner-up entry.

Sophia will receives a $100 Dymocks gift voucher and Certificate of Achievement, and Leanne and Charlotte will each receive a $50 Dymocks gift voucher and Certificate of Achievement for their efforts.

Ms Reynolds said a digital copy of all artwork will be sent to NAPCAN and may feature on their website and in their campaign. COVID-19: WHAT EVERY CHILD NEEDS RIGHT NOW

Isabell PetrinicSeptember 7, 2021|

St Pat’s sibling stars shine in The Voice finals 2021

Sian and Jordan Fuller have continued to take reality singing show The Voice by storm.

The next two episodes of the popular Australian singing competition TV show see the talented siblings – a current and former student at St Patrick’s College Sutherland – vie for a place in the top 2, an exciting step closer to the competition grand final.

Jordan, who graduated from the college in 2019, and Sian, who is in Year 12, turned all four judges’ chairs during the show’s blind auditions and have become social media darlings since.

Their musical journey began well before they joined Team Guy Sebastian (Jordan) and Team Rita Ora (Sian) on The Voice.

“Music was always a hobby. This is exposing them to the possibility that it could be much bigger” – Mum

Jordan and Sian are alumni of Sydney Catholic Schools’ creative and performing arts program CaSPA, which they joined while in Year 5 at St John Bosco Catholic Primary School Engadine.

The duo were members of both school’s bands, and have written music together. Both have performed in local musical theatre productions.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ alumnus Jordan Fuller.

Sian plays guitar and violin. Jordan plays and teaches clarinet at primary schools.

“One of the things they both came back and said was that all of that experience, starting so young in Year 5, made it natural for them – especially the recording aspect,” said their mum, Danielle Fuller, a music education officer at Sydney Catholic Schools.

“After they were born, I directed musicals and taught music every day and they would come with me.

“They often talk about how they didn’t really have a choice; this is just innate in them.

“It’s nice for me, as a …

Isabell PetrinicAugust 27, 2021|

How you can help Sydney’s homeless

It warms our hearts to know the Sydney Catholic Schools family is once again pulling together to raise funds to help break the cycle of homelessness.

And this year, for the first time, dioceses from across all of NSW will be joining us in our quest to raise awareness and desperately needed funds for people sleeping rough in our midst.

On Friday 27 August our staff, students and their families from Sydney Catholic Schools and Catholic schools across the state will be holding a simultaneous family backyard sleepout and sit-out.

They will be sleeping – or spending time – outside as a family with nothing but a cardboard base, sleeping bag and a single small blanket to raise money for the lay Catholic organisation St Vincent de Paul Society, affectionately known as Vinnies.

Called FamilyWinterSleepout@Home, the Sydney Catholic Schools initiative is being led by our inspirational Family Educators and is bringing all our families together to gain a deeper understanding of the realities of homelessness, while encouraging greater empathy and kindness among our students.

It is a perfect time to pray together as a family for those sleeping under bridges, on park benches, in doorways, bus stations and on friend’s and family’s couches during these winter months, including those who have lost their jobs and some their homes during this harsh coronavirus pandemic.

During your sleepout or sit-out, families may also wish to direct their prayers to Saint Benedict Joseph Labre – the patron saint of the homeless and downtrodden, who wore the rags of a beggar and shared his food with the poor.

Please get behind this wonderful cause and donate.

—

To donate, visit my.fundraise.vinniesnsw.org.au/fundraise-your-way/family-winter-sleepout-home-1. All …

Isabell PetrinicAugust 26, 2021|

Book trailers wow judges

In some page-turning news, two students from All Hallows Catholic Primary School Five Dock have been shortlisted in the Children’s Book Council Awards (CBCA) 2021 Collide! book trailer Competition.

Chiara Castelvetere and Nicholas Prevezanos were shortlisted in the Years 3-4 category.

The trailers they created were about picture books Kookaburra by Claire Saxby and Not Cute by Philip Bunting, respectively. Watch them here and here.

“We’re very proud of our two students who have been very creative in their entries,” All Hallows Assistant Principal, Christine Torresan, said.

“We had a bit of a zoom celebration at the school” – Christine Torresan

In their own words

Nicholas Prevezanos.

“I chose the book Kookaburra for my book trailer as I enjoyed reading the book and wanted to share what the book was about with others,” Chiara said.

Nicholas said after reading the book Not Cute, he realised it had a very important message that really resonated with him: ‘You can’t change who you are and it doesn’t matter what others think of you, as long as you are happy with yourself.’

“I think it’s an important message for everyone; that is why I chose that book,” Nicholas said.

About Collide!

Open to students in Years 3-9, Collide! encourages students to read and improve their literacy skills while learning to produce an original one-minute book trailer from the 2021 CBCA Notables list.

Ms Torresan said the school’s teacher librarian, Sharon Seymour, encouraged students to enter this year’s competition and, based on the result, the school will definitely be entering again in 2022.

“Projects like these encourage literacy and a love of reading” – Christine Torresan

Sam Looney.

“Though not shortlisted for this year’s awards, I would …

Isabell PetrinicAugust 24, 2021|

In their own words: Careers in STEM classrooms

Meet the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) teachers whose passion and past work experience is helping students at Sydney Catholic schools achieve.

As we celebrate National Science Week, Sue Farroukh, Gavin Gant, Sylvia Eleftherides and Andrew Di Lizio share with us the career pathways that led them to our classrooms.

SUE FARROUKH, Marist College Eastwood

– Civil engineering project lead, physics and biology teacher

I loved physics at school. For a curious kid like me it was great.

I was studying construction management at uni and had a little light bulb moment.

I wanted something more rewarding and really liked science at school, so I decided to become a physics teacher.

I worked in a big engineering firm for quite a few years.

One of our projects was to build train simulators for the new Sydney trains. With those large projects, you get a real understanding that nothing is done in isolation.

Making cross-curriculum connections is what I have taken from my work into teaching, especially with the seniors who are studying multiple sciences.

“Science answers so many questions” – Sue Farroukh

A lot of students want to be astrophysicists until they realise it’s a bunch of maths and the computers do everything now, so you’ve got to be a really good computer programmer.

Science is so broad. It’s making them aware that if they choose it as a career they’re not just going to be working in a research lab.

The pandemic has helped in that students see there’s someone who studies diseases, develops vaccines, studies viruses.

I tell students that even if they want to go into accounting or law, it does help to have a science under your belt because it is a different way of thinking.

Accuracy, validity and reliability are …

Isabell PetrinicAugust 18, 2021|

HSC Major Projects Special Consideration

MEDIA RELEASE | NSW EDUCATION STANDARDS AUTHORITY

The NESA COVID-19 Response Committee has extended the COVID Special Consideration Program to most HSC major projects being completed by HSC students across the state.

This means teachers will provide a mark or estimate for their students’ major projects in:

Drama
Textiles and Design
Design and Technology
Industrial Technology
Visual Arts

Students will need to submit their projects by the published due dates and teachers will have until 22 October to submit marks to NESA.

When providing a mark or estimate, teachers will take into consideration any impact of COVID-19 restrictions on students’ work.

Teacher provided marks will be moderated by NESA to ensure equity across the state.

The decision was made to limit the movement of NESA markers within and beyond Greater Sydney and is in line with Health advice for protecting the health and safety of everyone involved in the HSC exams.

The following major projects (that are submitted online) will continue to be marked online by NESA markers (unless an application for special consideration is made):

English Extension 2
Music 1 (compositions)
Music 2 and Extension (compositions and musicology)
Society and Culture Personal Interest Project

The Special Consideration Program is already in place for students completing language oral and performance exams across the state.

Written exams will go ahead from 19 October and NESA is working closely with NSW Health to ensure strict COVID-safe protocols are in place.

For up-to-date advice about the 2021 HSC, visit NESA’s COVID-19 advice. Early offer university schemes

Isabell PetrinicAugust 18, 2021|

World premiere: Interactive dance film Triskelion

The public is invited to choose their own adventure in a ground-breaking interactive dance film premiering today and produced especially for COVID-19, to ensure the show could go on.

Triskelion Dance Wars fuses an animated video-game format with live dance sequences performed by students in Years 6 to 11 from Sydney Catholic Schools Performing Arts’ (CaSPA) dance ensemble.

“The scope of the work was phenomenal” – Iris McGill

The CaSPA dancers worked with professional choreographers Neale Whittaker and Juliette Verne to master 24 dance sequences after just 10 hours of instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic, while performance restrictions were in place.

The dance sequences form a series of storyline options for Triskelion Dance Wars.

This story was filmed over two days at Sydney Catholic Schools’ first dedicated performing arts college, Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood.

The resulting Triskelion Dance Wars replaces the CaSPA annual live showcase, giving students’ families, friends and the world a unique window on the incredible choreography they have learnt throughout the school year.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ education officer: creative and performing arts, Iris McGill, said Triskelion Dance Wars was groundbreaking on two fronts.

“Other dance videos are either fully animated gaming, or feature live dancers in a tutorial format or dance video format” – Iris McGill

“Both choreographers were blown away by the calibre and the talent of the students, and the pace at which they worked,” Ms …

Isabell PetrinicAugust 9, 2021|

University Philosophy and Ethics courses for high schoolers

Logos for Schools, a University of Notre Dame program that teaches ethics and philosophy to students in Years 10 to 12, is now accepting expressions of interest for courses starting in late November.

St Clare’s College Waverley alumna, Caitlin Furber, participated in the program in Year 10 and says it set her on a path for an early offer to university.

St Clare’s College alumna Caitlin Furber.

“The essays I wrote as part of the course were marked at a university level and I got great feedback from the lecturers, which made me think about how I could improve my writing,” says Caitlin. “I translated this to my high school work, so I could achieve my goals and aim high for my ATAR.”

At the end of high school when everyone started thinking about the future, Caitlin wasn’t entirely sure what she wanted to do but, thanks to the Logos for Schools program, she knew she enjoyed Philosophy.

“Initially I was going to study Social Justice at Notre Dame, because that is an interest of mine, but I just kept coming back to Philosophy,” says Caitlin, who is now in her third year of a Bachelor of Philosophy, minoring in History, at the University of Notre Dame Australia.

Caitlin applied to Notre Dame through the Early Offer program and was successful in receiving a place before graduating high school.

“I applied for advanced standing and I’ve loved having that extra time to either do another class or take a lighter load one semester” – Caitlin Furber

About the program

Logos for Schools aims to develop students’ critical analysis and reasoning skills, while presenting some of the most interesting and challenging questions of human life for discussion and giving participants a chance to meet new people, …

Isabell PetrinicAugust 5, 2021|

COVID-19: Special consideration for HSC students

Media Release | NSW Education Standards Authority

The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) has announced a new program of special consideration to address significant impacts of COVID-19 on HSC oral language exams, performance exams and major work submissions.

Chair of the COVID-19 Response Committee Professor Peter Shergold said the program is designed to support students who have experienced significant disruption or disadvantage.

“We recognise that students in Greater Sydney have had varying levels of access to specialist equipment and a quiet place to study as they prepare for upcoming oral language exams, performance exams and to hand in major works,” Professor Shergold said.

“This is about ensuring that every student is able to have the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learnt to the best of their ability, despite the impact of COVID-19.”

Under the program, where there has been significant disruption or disadvantage due to COVID-19, schools can apply for an individual student or group of students to receive a mark from their teacher, rather than from a NESA marker.

NESA will issue guidelines so teachers can provide a mark that takes into account the impact of COVID-19 on a student’s preparation for the exam or major work.

To ensure equity, these marks will be moderated by NESA.

The COVID Special Consideration Program is available to students in schools under Level 4 restrictions who have experienced significant disruption as they prepare for: language oral exams, performance exams, and submission of major projects.

Chief Executive Officer of NESA Paul Martin said that this is about being flexible in unprecedented times and putting the mental and physical wellbeing of students first.

“We want students, their families and their teachers to be assured that despite disruptions, the hard work of students will be recognised.

“Students will have the opportunity to receive an HSC and move on to the next chapter of …

Isabell PetrinicAugust 5, 2021|

Help stamp out chronic homelessness

Sydney Catholic Schools’ (SCS) campaign to help stamp out chronic homelessness has been expanded across NSW.

SCS’ inaugural FamilyWinterSleepout@Home helped raise a staggering $71,531 for the lay Catholic organisation, St Vincent de Paul Society, during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown.

Now, dioceses across the state are inviting their students and families to take part in SCS’ Family Educators-led campaign.

The 2021 FamilyWinterSleepout@Home campaign will see people sleeping – or spending time – outside as a family on Friday 27 August with nothing but a cardboard base, sleeping bag and a single small blanket to raise money for Vinnies.

St John Bosco College Egadine students held their FamilyWinterSleepout@Home at school.

“Our second FamilyWinterSleepout@Home aims to bring families together to gain a deeper understanding of the realities of homelessness,” SCS’ Education Officer: Church Engagement, Elsa Manu, said.

Every night, more than 116,000 Australians experience homelessness. A quarter are young people aged under 18.

“Rural and urban families will participate in a lived experience, reflection and prayer for those who are experiencing homelessness at this time,” SCS Education Officer: Church Engagement, Mouna Roche, said.

Mrs Roche is quietly optimistic that together we can match last year’s dollar figure and help Vinnies break the cycle of homelessness.

By: JUDE THOMAS

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

The FamilyWinterSleepout@Home event has four parts:

1. Make a card and attach it to a muesli bar or other snack to be donated to Vinnies’ Night Patrol Vans.

The vans provide a meal, blankets, toiletries, snacks, hot beverages and companionship to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness seven nights a week, including in the Greater Sydney area. Last year, the vans provided 84,000 meals.

Isabell PetrinicAugust 4, 2021|

Saint Mary MacKillop Feast Day

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) is celebrating the feast day of our favourite Josephite, Saint Mary MacKillop, on Sunday 8 August by revisiting lessons learned at a 2021 ‘Lunch and Learn’ dedicated to our only Aussie saint.

The May Lunch and Learn information session for SCS staff was hosted by Dominique Farah, from SCS’ Mission and Identity team, and included two guest speakers: Sister Jan Barnett and Karen Oxley, from the Josephite Justice Network – an arm of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart keeping alive the Josephite tradition through service to others.

“Mary’s mission is our [SCS’] mission; to know and love Christ through learning” – Dominique Farah

SCS staff learned that Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop was a progressive and outstanding educator, establishing the first St Joseph’s School in a converted stable in Penola, South Australia, where a free education was provided to children from the area.

Interestingly, Saint Mary was an early proponent of authentic learning, or real-world problem-solving, as she believed rote learning without oral instruction was useless and that children needed to understand what they learned.

She supported this principle by having experiential learning opportunities, such as feasts, bush picnics and games, and encouraged parents to participate in their children’s education.

Saint Mary ensured all students were treated as equal, regardless of wealth, social position or race, with every child as special as the other – a tenet of both the Josephite Sisters, of which she was one, and of Sydney Catholic Schools.

“Never see a need without doing something about it” – Saint Mary MacKillop

Today, we have nine Sydney Catholic Schools with Mary MacKillop’s namesake and nine schools named after her favourite saint, St Joseph.

Born on St Joseph’s feast day in 1842 to Scottish immigrant parents in Melbourne, Mary said her life as a child “was one of …

Isabell PetrinicAugust 3, 2021|

Register NOW: Term 3 Family Forum

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) is proud to announce that its second Family Forum will be focusing on student wellbeing and mental health.

“Based on feedback from our staff and parents during our first Parent Forum in Term 2 and subsequent Facebook Live COVID-19 Q&A sessions, Sydney Catholic Schools is pleased to host a webinar outlining the programs and resources designed to help your child thrive,” our Executive Director, Tony Farley, said.

Jacqueline Frost and Tony Farley presenting at Sydney Catholic Schools’ first Family Forum.

To be hosted by Mr Farley, SCS’ Chief of Staff, Dr Jacqueline Frost, along with other SCS experts, this exciting 30-minute online event will be held on Monday August 23 from 6.30pm.

“We understand student wellbeing is top-of-mind for parents and our school communities, particularly as we navigate through these difficult times,” Mr Farley said.

“During this 30-minute session you will have the opportunity to guide the conversation through our live polling questions. We hope you will tune in!” REGISTER NOW

In case you are unable to join the online event, be sure to register above and you will receive a recording of the proceedings post event.

About the Family Forums

SCS kicked off its first, live and online Family Forum for parents, carers, and staff in Term 2, 2021, with more than 2500 people registering for this event.

These Family Forums will be run every term, providing an overview of the programs being offered by SCS to deliver on its vision, and commitment to build thriving Catholic communities through excellence in teaching and learning.

“Family Forums are designed so that everyone can learn more about how we are equipping our students with the skills, knowledge and opportunities they need to become …

Isabell PetrinicJuly 29, 2021|

‘Be a light in lockdown’: Tips for staying connected

From Lego projects to recipe sharing, Sydney Catholic Schools’ Family Educators are leading the charge to help families stay connected to their school, parish and neighbourhood communities this lockdown.

“Now, more than ever, while we are physically separated, we need to feel connected,” says Sydney Catholic Schools’ Education Officer: Church Engagement, Mouna Roche, a sentiment that’s echoed by her colleagues, Elsa Manu and Bernadette Bridle.

Mrs Roche said the Family Educators’ ‘Be a light in lockdown’ initiative encourages Sydney Catholic Schools’ students, along with their families, to complete a series of activities that aim to create a sense of social connection during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The initiative is based on the gospel verse Mathew 15:6: “Let your light shine.”

“This is an opportunity to be a light for others in simple ways” – Elsa Manu

OUR FAMILY EDUCATORS

Family Educators act as liaisons between their appointed Sydney Catholic school and Parish communities, working on and creating invitational events, information sessions and activities that aim to:

connect families with the religious life of the school and the parish;
provide further support to families in the development of their child – spiritually, socially and educationally;
promote Catholic mission and identity;
promote a welcoming, vibrant faith community.

FINDING THE LIGHT IN DARK TIMES

Mrs Roche said the pastoral care aspect of the Family Educator’s role was more important now than ever, as people felt the physical, mental and financial effects of isolation.

“We’re so conscious of the fact that so many of our school communities are hurting, either being unwell with COVID-19, or are struggling financially or with the pressure of working and learning from home,” Mrs Roche said.

“Then there are those families who’ve never had to worry about money and now do because both parents have been …

Isabell PetrinicJuly 29, 2021|

Watch NOW: Facebook COVID-19 Q&A

Sydney Catholic Schools is hosting COVID-19 Q&A Facebook Live sessions for Kindy to Year 2 parents and Year 12 parents and students tonight, on Friday 23 July.

Hosted by our Executive Director, Tony Farley, and our Chief of Staff, Dr Jacqueline Frost, the sessions will begin at:

5pm-5.30pm: We are holding our Kindy to Year 2 Event to connect with our Kindy through to Year 2 parents about support being offered during lockdown;
6pm-6.30pm: We are holding our Year 12 Event, for our Year 12 parents and students, to provide up to the minute support, guidance and reassurance.

You can tune in live right here, or on our official Facebook page.

—

UPDATE

The Live Q&A for Kindergarten to Year 2 has now ended, but you can still watch it below:

The Live Q&A for Year 12 has now ended, but you can still watch it below:

Isabell PetrinicJuly 23, 2021|

Save the date: More COVID-19 Q&A Facebook Live sessions coming

Sydney Catholic Schools is hosting two more live COVID-19 Q&A sessions on Facebook on Friday 23 July, for our Kindergarten to Year 2 parents and Year 12 parents and students.

“The turnout to our first interactive Facebook Q&A on 16 July was great,” Sydney Catholic Schools’ Executive Director, Tony Farley, said.

“During the event, many of our parents asked if we could conduct specific Facebook Live events.

“In particular, our Year 12 parents and students and our Kindy to Year 2 parents face unique challenges in the remote learning landscape and they’re keen to hear more. So, we’ve decided to host two focused Facebook Live events.”

Dr Jacqueline Frost and Tony Farley interacting with parents during a recent Facebook Live.

Event details

Based on feedback from you, Sydney Catholic Schools is pleased to host two focused Facebook Live COVID-19 events this Friday 23 July:

5pm-5.30pm: We are holding our Kindy to Year 2 Event, to connect with our Kindy through to Year 2 parents about support being offered during lockdown
6pm-6.30pm: We are holding our Year 12 Event, for our Year 12 parents and students, to provide up to the minute support, guidance and reassurance.

Hosted by our Executive Director and Chief of Staff, Dr Jacqueline Frost, and joined by Sydney Catholic Schools’ experts, the Live Facebook event will be interactive.

You can also ask questions in advance by posting comments into the comments section of each event on Sydney Catholic Schools’ Facebook page.

Don’t forget to follow the Facebook page to ensure you can be part of the conversation on the night! Sydney …

Isabell PetrinicJuly 21, 2021|

St Joseph’s Rosebery new Principal

After a rigorous interview and selection process our Executive Director, Tony Farley, is pleased to announce – along with Father Paul Smithers, Parish Priest of the Parish of Sydney City South – the appointment of Bernard Ryan as Principal of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Rosebery.

Mr Ryan will begin his new role at the start of Term 4 2021.

“Bernard is currently the Principal at St Columba’s Catholic Primary School Leichhardt North, where he has demonstrated the ability to transform the learning culture of the school community into a place where all students take responsibility for their learning, have opportunities to be creative and to reflect critically on their learning and their world,” Mr Farley said.

“This is an energising time for the future students, staff and community of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Rosebery and the Parish of Sydney City South and we congratulate Bernard on this significant appointment” – Tony Farley

St Joseph’s Rosebery is planned to commence construction in late 2021, with the first Kindergarten cohort slated to begin in 2023.

“Bernard will bring to life a parish-centred primary school that will embrace an innovative approach to learning,” Mr Farley said.

He went on to describe Mr Ryan as “a strong leader, who will bring a deep understanding of the achievement of student outcomes through data driven practice.”

Mr Ryan has welcomed his new role. “I am honoured to be leading the establishment of a vibrant and contemporary catholic primary school, where children will receive an exciting and excellent Catholic education,” he said.

“I am also looking forward to working with Father Paul and all in the Catholic community of City South to make St Joseph’s a place where all will come to know and love Christ through learning.” Click to read more Sydney Catholic Schools news

Isabell PetrinicJuly 15, 2021|

John Burland new song release

Singer-songwriter extraordinaire John Burland has unveiled a beautiful new song, titled Embrace Me Lord, penned during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown.

“At the time I was very much aware of the suffering and difficulties facing so many people around me,” said Mr Burland, Sydney Catholic Schools’ Education Officer: Archdiocesan Liturgical.

“It was also a time when I was dealing with caring for my Mum in palliative care and coming to terms with her diagnosis and what it meant for our family.

“For me, it was a time of great faith and prayerfulness, even through some of the darkest nights.

“My hope is that the song reminds us all that no matter how challenging and difficult the road becomes, we are blessed to have a God that always loves us and carries us in times of need.”

Isabell PetrinicJuly 13, 2021|

Clancy Prize winner: ‘She healed the wood, like she’s healed herself’

Meet Year 12 student Charlotte McCaughan, the 2021 Clancy Prize Executive Director’s Award winner.

Her Clancy Prize entry – a creative sculpture fashioned from termite-damaged Bunya Pine wood – features stars inspired from the Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood emblem emblazoned on her school uniform.

Titled Tableland of Faith and Time, it tells her story of redemptive healing following a life-altering head injury.

“Charlotte healed the wood, like she’s healed herself; her story brought me to tears” – Clancy Prize coordinator, Ivanka Rancic

Charlotte’s artwork, Tableland of Faith and Time. Photo: Kitty Beale

“In 2018 I got knocked out and then diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome (PCS),” Charlotte said with reference to PCS, a condition typically associated with a head injury.

Most people with post-concussion syndrome are able to recover with rest and by minimising stress. In Charlotte’s case, she experienced severe anxiety and was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), she said.

“I lost a lot of my memory and had multiple nervous breakdowns,” Charlotte said.

“My injury made me question my faith in God and if it were not for the teachers and family members who supported my academic work and social life, I would not be sharing my experiences with the world around me.”

Charlotte is pictured with Sydney Catholic Schools’ Executive Director, Tony Farley. Photo: Kitty Beale

A self-confessed unlikely artist, Charlotte is currently studying construction at Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood and hopes to one day work in remote communities helping make furniture around which people can come …

Isabell PetrinicJune 3, 2021|

Celebrating 64 Indigenous graduates

As we celebrate with our 64 Year 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 2020 alumni, Southern Cross Catholic College (SCCC) alumnus Anthony Carter-Rankine has an especially unique story to tell.

For the first time in more than a decade, a remote indigenous community in the Northern Territory has a Year 12 graduate.

Anthony Carter-Rankine, from Ti Tree – the closest town to Alice Springs – is only the second ever male in the region to have completed their Higher School Certificate (HSC).

The Southern Cross Catholic College (SCCC) alumnus also gained a First Aid Certificate before graduating, and has since secured a job at the Central Desert Regional Council.

Ti Tree in the Northern Territory, Anthony Carter-Rankine’s home.

“SCCC helped me gain my HSC and also some VET (Vocational, Education & Training) qualifications,” Anthony said. “By doing short courses, as well as securing part-time work, it helped me learn lots of skills that will assist me with my new job.”

Jane Bridges, Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Wellbeing Specialist: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, applauded Anthony’s determination and perseverance.

“Anthony’s story is a tribute to himself and a great testament to SCS’ commitment to the education of young Aboriginal students” – Jane Bridges

“The barriers that Anthony faced were profound and were compounded by COVID,” Ms Bridges said.

“I pay tribute especially to his home community for trusting Anthony to the care of SCS and to the teachers that worked with him and the organisations that partnered with his school.”

The long road to completing the HSC

Anthony arrived at SCCC in Term 4 of 2019 from Ti Tree, a town with 110 people, according to 2016 Census figures.

For Anthony to complete Year 12, he had to give up many things and overcome many …

Isabell PetrinicJune 2, 2021|

National Reconciliation Week: Wandana mural unveiled

Marist College Eastwood students have marked National Reconciliation Week and the rich history of their school and suburb with a painting that will last for generations to come.

The mural, painted with Indigenous artists Deslyn Marsh and Isaac Bamblett from Aboriginal education provider Wandana, features red oxide circles and four yellow travel routes to represent the four name changes the school has been through.

Other symbols on the mural show the land and bush tucker that sustained the local Wallumettegal tribe.

“Students gained a better understanding of the local land and Aboriginal customs, as well as an appreciation for the work that can be achieved when we come together as a community” – Silvana Rossetti

“It has been wonderful to learn about the original inhabitants of this land and to learn that a fish – snapper – was the totem of the Aboriginal people living on this land,” Marist College Eastwood Principal, Silvana Rossetti, said.

“The fish is also a powerful symbol for Christians, so it is a beautiful reminder for us of both Aboriginal and Christian spirituality.”

Mrs Rossetti said the mural was a way to raise awareness of Aboriginal culture and was situated in an area that was highly visible to the school’s staff, students and visitors.

“We are proud to be able to acknowledge not only the history of the school, which began in 1937, but also the land upon which it is built,” she said. Support for our Indigenous students

Isabell PetrinicMay 28, 2021|

Solar Car Challenge: Students ready to race

Mary MacKillop Catholic College Wakeley students embraced a stellar opportunity to build their mentoring and problem-solving skills in a multi-school Solar Car Challenge.

As part of the challenge, close to 50 Year 7 to 10 students from the college helped pupils from four Sydney Catholic primary schools design and build a car using solar power that can follow a 20-metre track of plastic conduit.

“Problem solving is one of the key skills” – Robert Hennessey

The regional STEM initiative – run ahead of the University of NSW’s Sunsprint Challenge – asks students to examine the factors that affect the speed of a solar car in two-hour sessions across 10 weeks. STEM is short for Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Patrician Brothers’ College Fairfield hosted a race day to end the challenge after also mentoring primary school students through the building process.

Mary Mackillop STEM teacher, Robert Hennessey, said students tested gear ratios and soldered electrical circuits as part of the challenge.

“Trying to keep their car on the track and improve its performance each week was a constant challenge,” Mr Hennessey said.

“Time management was also an important skill as the students had to test and trial the car with various components, such as wheel size and angle of the solar panel, to gain the most voltage” – Robert Hennessey

Year 8 students Maryam Baji and Andriana Issa said they enjoyed mentoring Year 5 students through the challenge, sharing their knowledge and skills.

Andriana said one of the best parts of being a mentor for the solar car challenge was “feeling like we are part of something bigger than our school.”

“A highlight was ruining our car and rebuilding it,” laughed Maryam. “We learnt how to work in …

Isabell PetrinicMay 28, 2021|

NRL Schoolboy Cup: Patrician Brothers defeat Holy Cross

In front of a crowd of over 1,000 students and fans, Patrician Brothers Fairfield defeated Holy Cross College 20-18 at Holy Cross campus in Round 2 of the NRL Schoolboy Cup.

Fans were revved up for the clash as Holy Cross celebrated their 40th anniversary of lifting the Schoolboy Cup off, you guessed it, Patrician Brothers Fairfield.

“Those last minutes, we knew we could do it” – Pats’ captain, Joshua Alhazim

The Sydney Catholic Schools’ derby was decided in the dying embers of the match with a gritty try to Pats’ captain Joshua Alhazim, reaping some revenge for their ‘Old Boys’ from 1981.

It was the away side that came out strongest, with Sam Samani exposing Holy Cross’ right wing, going over for two tries in quick succession.

Holy Cross hit back through debutant Cooper Wheelhouse who forced his way over the line after a powerful run by Will Carrol.

Again though, Pats’ would expose the right wing. This time Corey Akers dummied a pass before diving over the line and, with Taj’h Colquhuon converting, they were 14-6 up.

The home team managed to score and convert another try as Ati Teaupa crossed over to have Holy Cross only two down at the break.

It seemed that try gave Holy Cross confidence with captain Jaxson Rahme next to score and put the home team in front for the first time in the match with a converted try, 18-14.

But the drama was just getting started as both teams saw their no.7s sin-binned for the final 10 minutes of the game.

Pats’ captain Alhazim was the hero, crashing over the line to make it 18-18 before a cool headed Colquhuon converted for the win, 20-18.

“Those last minutes, we knew we could do it,” Alhazim said.

“It was a grind, we kept talking and we worked …

Isabell PetrinicMay 28, 2021|

Revealed: Clancy Prize winners

Ignite your artistic side and take a tour of McGlade Gallery, where you will discover 68 mesmerising spiritual artworks by talented Sydney Catholic secondary students.

Sculptures, paintings, photographs and much more form part of the 2021 Clancy Religious Art Prize and Exhibition.

Sixty-eight individual and collaborative works were last year entered into the Sydney Archdiocesan competition and 14 picked up prizes on Friday 21 May.

The artworks illustrate students’ understanding of this year’s exhibition theme: ‘Celebrating 200 Years of Catholic Education in Australia’.

“I try to buy as much student work as I can; it’s good for me and for them” – Clancy Prize judge, Dr Victoria Carruthers

ACU School of Education Award winner: St Ursula’s College Kingsgrove alumna, Anna Giannini, with her artwork Intricacy. “During 2020 we were isolated and had to find new ways to ‘look up’,” said Anna, who is now studying fashion. “My artworks are a symbolic and spiritual representation of this.”

St Mary’s Cathedral Sydney alumnus, Martino Kanasugi, with his work Don’t Blink (keep watching). “The sensitive use of a translucent Mickey, whispering subliminal messages, alludes to the sinister nature of the ‘screen’,” said Martino, who is now studying Bachelor of Design at UNSW.

ABOUT THE CLANCY PRIZE

The annual Clancy Prize exhibition is a celebration of our students’ creativity and spirituality, expressed through visual arts, inspired by Cardinal Edward Clancy.

This is the 22nd year of the competition.

Taking part is a very practical way for students to mark and celebrate the bicentenary of Catholic education in Australia and, most importantly, it provides an opportunity for them to …

Isabell PetrinicMay 25, 2021|

Musical opportunity hits all the right notes

Holy Spirit Lakemba’s Amadeus program is providing students with tailored music and arts education, along with new instruments.

“Amadeus is an exciting opportunity for students to engage in formal musical education,” said Emma Hughes, Holy Spirit’s creative and performing arts coordinator.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Amadeus Music Education Program provides Year 7 students at the college with the opportunity to learn an orchestral instrument and participate in small group and ensemble music lessons, which are delivered by professional tutors.

Holy Spirit students taking part in Amadeus. Photo: Kitty Beale

The college also has a state of the art performance space, making it the perfect base for students like Grace Akomeah to begin their musical journey.

“I played the recorder last year,” said Grace. “The clarinet has a lot of blowing and it takes a lot of air to play the instrument.”

BENEFITS OF MUSIC

Research shows that music:

Boosts brain power

Promotes wellbeing

Improves language and maths skills, memory and coordination

Ms Hughes says students benefit in many ways from taking part in the Amadeus Music Education Program.

“Apart from the inherent joy from learning how to play music and create art and beauty, students have to learn discipline in terms of their practice regimes, looking after an instrument, which opens up an entirely new world for them,” Ms Hughes said.

A student receives music tuition. Photo: Kitty Beale

Grace said learning to play an instrument had given her a strong sense of accomplishment.

“I show my parents every week and continue to improve with the tutor telling me what I can do better and when I’m playing the wrong notes,” Grace said.

Her peer, Finn Fordyce, is considering …

Isabell PetrinicMay 25, 2021|

New program gives every student the gift of music

Sydney Catholic Schools’ new Amadeus Music Education Program has lifted off at a high tempo – and Trinity Catholic College Auburn/Regents Park is playing to the tunes.

As part of the program, Year 7 students at the college have received orchestral instruments and are participating in small group and ensemble music lessons delivered by specialist music tutors.

“The Amadeus program will provide all Year 7 students with a wonderful opportunity to learn a musical instrument and develop a whole new dimension of their brains,” Principal Daniel Delmage said.

“We know that the research shows that music will boost brain power, promote wellbeing and improve language and maths skills, memory and coordination.”

BENEFITS OF MUSIC

Research shows that music:

Boosts brain power

Promotes wellbeing

Improves language and maths skills, memory and coordination

Trinity’s general coordinator, Fred Azar, agrees that the program presents fantastic opportunities for their students.

Trinity students taking part in Amadeus Music Education Program lessons. Photo: Kitty Beale

“It’s a break from normal study, and as well as learning to play these instruments, they are also gaining other cognitive skills,” Mr Azar said. “It’s great for emotional wellbeing [and] great for them to learn a multitude of skills and practice teamwork to compose symphonies.”

Mr Azar’s role helps timetable practise time for every student with specialist music tutors funded by Sydney Catholic Schools.

“We’ve outsourced eight fantastic tutors who are well versed and experienced in a range of different instruments” – Fred Azar

Participating student Tyana Moawad said she really liked the program.

“It’s a fun way of learning new instruments instead of just writing music,” Tyana said. “It’s helped me learn how to read music and not be clueless about it but also understand it.”

Tyana’s peer, Xin Qiu, said she …

Isabell PetrinicMay 24, 2021|

Army Cadets inspire new generation

The revival of Holy Cross College’s Australian Army Cadet Unit after four decades has led to a flurry of interest from parents keen to give their sons leadership and adventuring experiences.

“The decision to re-raise the Holy Cross College Australian Army Cadet Unit has proven to be very popular,” said Timothy White, who oversees the program in association with a Cadet Captain and the Australian Army. He is also the school’s co-curricular coordinator.

“Enrolments have grown on the back of the program, with many students starting at Holy Cross in 2022 for the Cadet program” – Timothy White

A STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

“I’m passionate about history and couldn’t wait to do something outside the square, other than sport or schoolwork,” Senior Under Officer of cadets, Deakin Antaw, said.

“Honestly I feel blessed my school brought the program back as it has changed my life and given me memories forever” – Deakin Antaw

EARLY HISTORY

The Holy Cross College Australian Army Cadet program originally ran from 1909 to 1974 and was reintroduced in late 2019.

The King’s School and Newington College vie for the honour of having the oldest Cadet Corps in Australia. But Holy Cross is the only Catholic systemic school in Australia to offer this youth military program, according to Mr White.

Before the program’s reintroduction, the school already had an active Science, Technology, Mathematics & Engineering (STEM) program and offered award-winning enterprises, like the 24 hour Solar Car Challenge and National Submarine in Schools Challenge, to help students identify career and university possibilities in a practical way.

The Cadet program, established by the Australian Army, is designed to foster and develop communication, initiative, respect, resilience, leadership, teamwork and discipline.

“The program has revolutionised the College and created a culture second to none” – Timothy …

Isabell PetrinicMay 17, 2021|

Our Star in Frozen

There’s still time to catch Our Lady of Fatima, Kingsgrove (OLF) student Chloe Delle-Vedove in Disney’s Frozen the Musical at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre. Don’t let this opportunity go.

Since first performing at the age of 4 in a Woolies ad, things have continued to heat up for Chloe, who is now starring as Anna in the stage version of Disney’s hugely popular 2013 animated movie of the same name.

For the uninitiated, Anna is the younger sister of the Snow Queen, Elsa.

“I perform two shows a week and two standbys a week,” Chloe, who is now in Year 4, said. “I got an audition from my agency and lots and lots of kids were auditioning for it.”

“I got to the very top, so I got called back” – Chloe

OLF principal, Anthony Weir, couldn’t sing her praises enough.

“We are delighted that Chloe has been given this opportunity to let her obvious talent shine in front of live audiences,” Mr Weir said. “Many friends and family have been to see Chloe perform, including staff members of the school.”

“My role model would probably be my mum because she is also an actor, so when I was younger I asked her if I could get an agent so that’s where it all started” – Chloe

Chloe takes every opportunity to hone her craft, including pursuing creative avenues in her own school. They include: public speaking, vocal group, talent show, Christmas concert, Questacon, and Dance Fever drama and music lessons.

“She is very talented and is also a wonderful example of service to others in the school” – Anthony Weir

Chloe also pursues opportunities outside school, including through Nadine’s Academy of Dance.

“I do musical theatre, hip hop, jazz, …

Isabell PetrinicMay 6, 2021|

Cross Country: Mud, grit and determination

Over 2500 students navigated a mud-slicked course at Sydney Catholic Schools’ first large-scale Cross Country, their eyes firmly on the prize – a berth at the MacKillop Championships.

The first athlete over the muddy line, Harper Surjan from Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School in Carnes Hill, described the course as “wet and slippery.”

He completed the 12/13 Years Boys 3km race in 13 minutes and 57 seconds at Sydney Catholic Schools’ (SCS) first combined Cross Country Carnival at Sydney Motorsport Park, Eastern Creek.

SCS has never before held an event of this magnitude, and SCS’ Executive Director, Tony Farley, said it was the first of many more to come.

“It’s important to recognise that this large-scale combined event is the beginning of scaling combined sport all across the Archdiocese of Sydney and placing Sydney Catholic Schools at the forefront of sporting achievement and success,” Mr Farley said.

Event gets nod of approval

Spotted mingling in the crowd was Trevor Wiseman, who has a long history within School Sport Australia and is currently the National Cross Country Advisor.

“Today’s been great – I’m impressed,” said Mr Wiseman who, in 2019, was awarded a Life Membership of School Sport Australia for outstanding contribution and service to school sport in Australia.

“The setup is just magnificent” – Trevor Wiseman OAM

“Whether you’re behind the windows (in the race control rooms) or in the grandstand, you can see what’s happening,” said Mr Wiseman.

SCS’ Director Education and Research, Dr Kate O’Brien, said: “It’s just an extraordinary opportunity for young boys and girls to participate in sport.”

“Their determination to run the distance is quite extraordinary,” Dr O’Brien added.

“Congratulations to all participants!” – Dr Kate O’Brien

What’s next

Isabell PetrinicMay 5, 2021|

Walk Safely to School Day 2021

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Road Safety Education Officer, Andrew Sortwell, invites parents to role model good pedestrian behaviour on Walk Safely to School Day 2021 – and every day.

Calling all primary school parents! Consider lacing up your sneakers and walking your child to school on Friday 14 May, National Walk Safely to School Day.

As Sydney Catholic Schools’ Road Safety Education Officer, Andrew Sortwell, says: “It’s a good chance for parents to role model good behaviour as a pedestrian, i.e. teach by example where to cross the road, and how to cross the road safely.”

“If children are 10 years or younger they should be holding an adult’s hand” – Andrew Sortwell

Andrew Sortwell walking with his children. Photo: Kitty Beale

National Walk Safely to School Day is a community initiative that aims to raise awareness of the health, road safety, transport and environmental benefits that regular walking – especially to and from school – can provide for the long term wellbeing of our children.

Apart from the physical benefits, regular walking also has a positive impact on their mental health and academic performance.

Active kids are smarter kids

Children aged 5-12 years old are recommended to do 150 minutes of planned physical activity every week.

“Active transport options, such as walking or cycling to and from school, are the perfect complement to school Personal development, health and physical education (PDHPE) programs that promote motor performance skills proficiency and adequate fitness,” Mr Sortwell said.

He said staying active helps students gain confidence in their ability to successfully engage in games and physical activities, and reduces their susceptibility to lifestyle diseases, such as obesity.

“Road safety education is about promoting what we need to do” – Andrew Sortwell

“National Walk Safely to …

Isabell PetrinicApril 29, 2021|

2021 MacKillop swim stars

More than 900 athletes converged on Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre, including 169 from Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS), all vying for their place at the NSW Primary Schools Sport Association (NSW PSSA) Swimming Championships.

SCS dominated the 22 March day-long MacKillop Swimming Championships, collecting an incredible 70 medals – 28 of which were gold.

SCS’ medal tally far outweighed any other Diocese in MacKillop, a region made up of Catholic schools in the southern part of NSW.

“It was a tremendous event at a great facility,” observed event organiser and SCS Specialist in Pre-Post Sport, Troy Moran.

The day belonged to the magnificent 10-year-old Roman Szabo, from St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Primary School Randwick North, who took home three gold and two silver medals.

Roman dominated in the 8-10 year-old 50-metre Breastroke, 8-10 year-old 200-metre Individual Medley and 10-year-old 50-metre Freestyle, also clinching well-deserved silvers in the 8-10 year-old 50-metre Backstroke and 8-10 year-old 50-metre Butterfly.

“I’m pretty happy with how I did. It was a good day” – Roman Szabo

Mia Hoo, from St Bernard’s Catholic Primary School Botany, picked up four medals – three of the shiniest gold colour. She blitzed the field in the 8-10-year-old 50-metre Butterfly, 8-10-year-old 50-metres Breaststroke and 8-10-year-old 200-metre Individual Medley, and also picked up a silver medal in the 9-year-old 50-metre Freestyle.

The Freestyle King from Regina Coeli Catholic Primary School Beverly Hills, Samuel Skrabak, secured two gold medals in the All-Age 100-metre Freestyle and 12-year-old 50-metre Freestyle, which he won by just over half a second. He also collected silver in the 12-13-year-old Butterfly event.

Moran thanked his team for pulling together a successful event.

“There are plenty of great people that I work with, who ensure that if there are any issues we’re onto them very quickly,” …

Isabell PetrinicMarch 29, 2021|

VIDEO: Trying is everything

More than 120 primary students gathered at Blakehurst, vying to represent the Sydney Archdiocesan rugby league team at the MacKillop trials in late April.

Some impressive tries, hard hitting tackles and skills were there for not only the selectors to see, but also parents who could be heard in full voice on the sidelines at Todd Park on Wednesday 17 March.

Coach and selector for the Open’s Boys team, Adam Bowmaker, said he was impressed with what he saw, adding it was difficult to select a squad.

“The event continues to grow every year and the quality on show is consistently improving,” Bowmaker said.

Event convenor Donna Smith echoed Bowmaker’s words.

“The day has gone well,” said Smith. “We’re so happy with the weather, which was our biggest concern before the day started.”

“The talent has been outstanding and the selectors have been pushing to get the best talent we can” – Donna Smith

Among those trialling for spots in the Under 11’s Team were four girls. Impressively, two of the four gained selection – Cobi Ryan-Last from St Michael’s Primary School Daceyville and Ruby Seitula from Christ The King Catholic Primary School Bass Hill.

“Exceptional to have the girls here and they’ve really matched it and kept up with the boys,” Smith said.

Chosen athletes will now move onto the MacKillop Trials in Canberra on Friday 30 April.

Sydney Archdiocesan Under 11’s Team:

Christ the King Bass Hill – Ruby Seitula
Christian Brothers Lewisham – Patrick McMahon
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Mount Prichard – Deon Haynes
Regina Coeli Beverly Hills – Jayden Tuione
Regina Coeli Beverly Hills – Damien Taufateau
St Aloysius Cronulla – Flynn Coady
St Andrew’s Malabar – Luka Cavlovic
St Bernard’s Botany – Aholelei (Junior) Pohiva
St Francis Xavier’s Lurnea – Sesefo Katoa
St Gertrude’s Smithfield – Dominic Ters
St Jerome’s Punchbowl – …

Isabell PetrinicMarch 22, 2021|

Support for Indigenous students

Meet the Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) alumna making a difference in Aboriginal students’ lives.

Jane Bridges, SCS’ Wellbeing Specialist: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, said she felt very proud to work for SCS in Aboriginal education.

A Ngunawal woman, from the Bell line of family from Yass, she helps teachers at SCS learn from families about the background, aspirations and strengths of their Indigenous students, in partnership with her colleague, Adam Daniels, who is the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community and Student Liaison Officer at SCS.

“Sydney is one of Australia’s biggest and fastest-growing Indigenous population hubs and SCS has responded to the requests of families to educate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in a Catholic tradition,” Ms Bridges said.

Today there are 1093 Aboriginal students enrolled in SCS schools (40 more than in 2020), including at least 77 students who will sit their HSC this year.

“SCS is currently working on a focus of developing Aboriginal Studies in Stages 5 and 6 for all students and a Cultural Competency program is already accessible by all staff,” Ms Bridges said.

“As a system of schools we are enriched by the stories and spirituality that Aboriginal people bring to us daily.”

“The work that is being done is life-changing for individuals and Aboriginal families,” Ms Bridges said.

Other ways SCS supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to succeed:

All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are given personalised learning plans that engage with student and family goals. “The plans are dynamic and focus on success,” said Ms Bridges.
The staffing allocation model (SAM) is used by schools to support strategies to focus on the literacy and numeracy needs of each student, including extension.
Pathways through VET. “These have had significant implications for improving retention and HSC completion rates,” Ms Bridges said.
Partnerships with external …

Isabell PetrinicMarch 19, 2021|

VIDEO: The goal is excellence

The heavens threatened to open up all day at Marco Reserve, Panania, as our primary schoolers battled it out for a place in the Sydney Archdiocesan Soccer team that will attend the MacKillop trials.

More than 60 boys and just over 50 girls from six zones across the Sydney Archdiocese vied fiercely on Tuesday 16 March for only 12 spots in each of the two teams.

There were some fine skills on offer, amazing goals and sensational saves, making it extremely difficult for selectors to pick the standout performers.

“The high calibre of skills on offer made it tough to pick a team and the quality of players keeps getting better every year,” selector Anna-Kate Turnbull said.

Rene Vella, Sydney Catholic Schools’ Education Officer: Pre to Post Sport, was grateful the rain stayed away for the greater part of the day, arriving only during the final game despite the ominous storm clouds.

“We had very competent staff on the day and the weather held off which was great,” Vella said.

“Parents and students were cooperative and took everything on they received from the briefing which all culminated in a very smooth day.”

Soccer is Sydney Catholic Schools’ biggest team sport and a major event for the diocese.

“It’s the largest event we run outside of swimming, cross country and athletics, and a sport that is consistently growing in popularity” – Rene Vella

One of the standout boys of the trial, Isaac Andrews, is looking forward to the next step in his soccer pathway.

“I’m really excited for the MacKillop trials and hopefully I can get selected (to progress),” said the silky midfielder.

The chosen few will now move onto the MacKillop Trials in Goulburn on Friday 23 April.

Sydney Archdiocesan Boys Team:

Holy Spirit Carnes Hill – Harper Surjan
John the Baptist Bonnyrigg Heights – Pietro Sanfilipo
Our Lady of the …

Isabell PetrinicMarch 17, 2021|

GALLERY: Life is better with goals

It was all systems go at Netball Central in Sydney Olympic Park as 60 primary students from six Sydney Archdiocesan zones competed to represent Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) at the netball MacKillop Trials.

Many goals and skills were on show to selectors and parents on Monday 15 March, as well as a group of Year 9 volunteer students from Domremy Catholic College who helped umpire the games.

The 2021 Sydney Archdiocesan Netball Squad.

One of those umpires, Emily Fernandez, said she was super impressed with the talent on show and pleased she and her peers got to referee this important event.

Convenor for the Sydney Archdiocesan Netball Selection Trials, Caroline Loneragan, described it as “a good day.”

“We’ve been learning things as we go,” said Loneragan. “The process was very good with neutral selectors and makes sure we have the best outcome for all the girls.”

Selectors, who are independent and neutral, had the tough job of selecting 10 talented players to continue their representative pathway journey.

Fittingly, Suncorp Super Netball powerhouses Sydney Giants and NSW Swifts were both training on adjacent courts preparing for their upcoming season.

One of those players was none other than SCS alumna and current Australian Diamonds’ goal attack, Kiera Austin, who was kind enough to come over and chat with some of SCS’ students. The national netball representative also took a few cheeky selfies, much to her young fans’ delight.

Convenor Loneragan taught the netball superstar at Holy Spirit Catholic Primary North Ryde and credits the representative pathway offered at SCS for helping set her, and other elite sport stars like her, on their future road to success.

“Kiera managed to get to the MacKillop level very comfortably; that pathway allows kids who play at an elite level to …

Isabell PetrinicMarch 16, 2021|

Principal’s bald fundraising move

Inspired by the courage of Nicholas, a Year 1 student currently receiving treatment for leukaemia, St Michael’s Catholic Primary School Meadowbank principal Brian Story has had his head shaved for the World’s Greatest Shave.

And the entire school community has got behind him and helped him raise more than $21,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation, making him their eighth top shaver!*

“I’m very, very touched,” said Nick’s mum, Janet Chrisafulli, who watched as Nicholas, better known as Nick, took a clipper to his principal’s head spurred on by his brother Leo and all his classmates who enthusiastically chanted “World’s Great Shave” as Mr Story’s lovely brown locks came tumbling down.

“The first day of my campaign we had already raised over $6000” – Brian Story

Asked what he thought of Mr Story’s new look, Nick said “He looks funny.” Brother Leo said “he looks worse than I thought he would.”

Mr Story’s wife Gail, who is principal of Eileen O’Connor Catholic College Lewisham, and daughter Caitlin encouraged him to shave his head after he told them of Nicholas’ diagnosis.

Pictured is St Michael’s Meadowbank student Nicholas with his brother Leo.

“Shortly after our chat we were watching television when an advertisement came on for the World’s Greatest Shave to beat blood cancer,” Mr Story said. “My daughter, Caitlin, said ‘Dad, you should do that!’”

But not before telling him how bad his head would look, Mr Story recalled with a laugh.

He was even told he might end up looking like Homer Simpson, he candidly told students before going bald for charity.

“Nick’s treatment is going well,” Mr Story told everyone, before addressing Nick to say: “You have so …

Isabell PetrinicMarch 11, 2021|

Photo Gallery: Go Inside Marist Penshurst

The incredible makeover of Marist Catholic College Penshurst is nearing completion. These photos (below) offer you a glimpse of the exciting new changes.

The seven stage Marist building program is due to be completed by September 2021, bringing with it new learning areas, specialist spaces – and a new school hall.

“The multi-functional space, that has a state-of-the-art NBA (National Basketball Association) style playing surface, serves both as a hall and an indoor court,” Sydney Catholic Schools’ Project Delivery Specialist, Oje Ativie, said.

School Principal, Ray Martin, said the adaptive building design of the new classrooms would facilitate interaction and collaboration between students.

“General learning spaces open up into two rooms, flexible furniture is used to create different types of learning, and technology in the rooms is seamless and easy for teachers to use,” said Mr Martin.

“There’s a sense of great excitement that we’re actually finishing and it’s been a dream for this school for six years” – Ray Martin

The school upgrade comes on the back of the school’s successful transition to co-education, something that was highly sought after by the local community, according to Mr Martin.

“It brings to conclusion the school’s journey from being a 7-10 boys’ school with just over 400 students to a school with 1100 students, with equal numbers of boys and girls, who have the facilities and potential to achieve great results,” Mr Martin said.

“I think we are going to go from a very good school to a great school.” Photo gallery: go inside St Marks’ Drummoyne

Isabell PetrinicMarch 10, 2021|

Photo Gallery: 2021 Archdiocesan Swimming Carnival recap

More than 450 students competed at the Sydney Catholic Schools Archdiocesan Swimming Carnival vying for berths at the MacKillop championships in Homebush.

Eighty-two Sydney Catholic schools were represented at the mammoth event, which needed to be split into two sessions due to COVID-19 regulations.

After months of being locked out of carnivals due to COVID, parents were also a welcome sight in the crowd at Auburn Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre.

“By splitting the event, we reduced numbers allowing for parents to be present,” SCS’ Sport Education Office: Pre to Post, Rene Vella, said.

“The atmosphere isn’t there if the parents aren’t here” – Rene Vella

St Anthony’s Clovelly parents Peter Benic and Lisa Cummins were stoked to be poolside again.

“We’re just very happy things are back to being almost normal,” Mr Benic said.

“It’s nice to be back as a community” – Lisa Cummins

St Francis of Assisi Paddington mum Audrey Rana said she was “super excited” to be able to attend daughter Chloe’s first Archdiocesan event in person. “I’ll be screaming when she competes,” Ms Rana laughed.

How the day unfolded

Records tumbled at yesterday’s Archdiocesan Swimming Carnival, with one coming right at the end of the day to sign off the event in style.

The event kicked off with an incredible race in the Open Girls 100-metre Freestyle.

Mila Raven from Villa Maria Hunters Hill and Isabella Esposito from Our Lady of Lourdes Earlwood could not be separated, touching the wall at the same time to finish equal first.

Raven was definitely the star of the morning session, winning the Senior Girls Relay, 12-year-old 50m Freestyle and the Girls 12-13 year-olds 50m Backstroke.

Peter with son Hugo, of St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School Clovelly. Photo: Kitty Beale

Our Zone 6 star, St Patrick’s Sutherland swimming sensation Sophie Aungle …

Isabell PetrinicMarch 10, 2021|

Future of 21st century education

At a time of uncertainty and challenge, more and more parents are choosing one of our 150 schools to educate their children, writes Sydney Catholic Schools’ Executive Director, Tony Farley.

Sydney Catholic Schools is experiencing record levels of demand. The strong foundations of literacy and numeracy provided to our students are valued by our parents who know these are the essential building blocks upon which all other learning and growth are built.

Our parents know that in Sydney Catholic schools each child has his and her own unique needs and that every child must be known and guided to their fullest potential by professional and skilled teachers.

While Sydney Catholic schools are high performers in both NAPLAN and the HSC, we also offer a comprehensive education that is practical, creative, innovative and designed to be engaging for all students.

Parents and students are offered an extraordinary range of learning initiatives, activities and programs. Through various tools and channels our schools encourage constant engagement and feedback between students, parents and teachers as an essential component of educational excellence.

St John Bosco College Engadine Students. Photo: Kitty Beale

Our schools are faith communities that are inextricably part of the local parishes that worship and thrive throughout the Archdiocese of Sydney. Our parish communities are places of spiritual growth and our schools’ close connection with parishes is essential to who we are and who we can be.

To visit a Sydney Catholic school is to be part of a dynamic, vibrant and optimistic experience of 21st century education. Our schools are founded upon and imbued with 2000 year old Catholic traditions of faith, worship and outreach.

In a world of constant change and challenge, our schools are places where students, staff and parents can …

Isabell PetrinicMarch 3, 2021|

1971 St Joseph’s Kindy reunion

St Joseph’s Maroubra Kindergarten Class of 1971’s childhood recollections will have you fondly recollecting your days in the old schoolyard.

Sixty Kindergarten Kangaroos and Kindergarten Koalas attended St Joseph’s Maroubra way back when, and nearly 20 came together on 6 February 2021 to celebrate 50 years since they first started school together.

Some stayed for nine hours reminiscing and storytelling, and are now planning to have annual catch ups.

Reunion organiser Monica Scanlon (nee Smith), a former teacher at St Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School Hurstville, looks back on the reunion and reflects on her days in the old school yard.

As the students took a walk around the perimeter of the school, they recalled lunch times spent playing marbles, fly (jumping over sticks lined up in the playground), elastics (jumping over elastic which was held up by a student at either end), skipping with a big skipping rope or kicking the football.

It was amazing to hear Vicki McLachlan, one of the Year 4 teachers who attended the reunion, be able to look at faces and remember the names and stories of students she taught 45 years ago.

Great laughs were had at the old Globite brown school briefcase that was brought along. Although somewhat worn and unable to fully lock, it created much discussion as it was complete with stickers of the day.

Only a few students still had this treasure from their early school years.

SCHOOL LIFE IN 1971

Fifty years ago, school was very different to today.

Each morning milk was delivered to the school in small glass bottles with foil lids for the students to drink.

There were lots of comments made (at the reunion) about the milk being hot, as …

Isabell PetrinicFebruary 12, 2021|

About Isabell Petrinic

STAYIN ALIVE

The road to stardom

Creative from the get-go

MEET THE CHOIR SCHOLARS

THE IMPACT OF LOCKDOWN

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT IN OUR SCHOOLS

RETURN TO SCHOOL STRATEGIES

THE ROAD BACK TO FACE-TO-FACE LEARNING

The Road Back

Our joyful hymn of praise

‘AS HUMANS, WE CRAVE SOCIAL INTERACTIONS’

SO, WHAT MAKES A ‘HEALTHY’ NEIGHBOURHOOD?

Live Q&A and Concert

In their own words

About Collide!

SUE FARROUKH, Marist College Eastwood

MEDIA RELEASE | NSW EDUCATION STANDARDS AUTHORITY

About the program

Media Release | NSW Education Standards Authority

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

About the Family Forums

OUR FAMILY EDUCATORS

FINDING THE LIGHT IN DARK TIMES

Event details

ABOUT THE CLANCY PRIZE

A STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

EARLY HISTORY

Event gets nod of approval

What’s next

Active kids are smarter kids

How the day unfolded

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which our schools and offices now stand. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

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