CEF | Sydney Catholic Schools

2026 CEF Teaching Scholarship recipients welcomed into SCS community

Sydney Catholic Schools has announced the 2026 recipients of the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) Teaching Scholarship, with record application numbers highlighting strong interest in teaching within Catholic schools.

Following a competitive selection process, 16 students were awarded scholarships for 2026, recognised for their academic potential, commitment to Catholic service, and passion for teaching.

For 2026 recipient Angelina Odisho, an 18-year-old former student of Freeman Catholic College Bonnyrigg Heights, receiving the scholarship represents both reassurance and opportunity as she begins her university journey.

“I am immensely grateful to have received the CEF Teaching Scholarship for 2026, as it allows me to gain a head start on my career in education knowing that I am supported not only financially, but also holistically throughout my journey to becoming an educator,” she said.

CEF Supervisor Kathleen Badolato said early support, mentoring and belonging underscores the important role the scholarship plays in forming confident, values-led educators.

“For these students, receiving this scholarship signifies an entry into a lifelong ecosystem of support. It provides them with a rare bridge between their academic studies and their professional vocation, allowing them to deepen their faith journey within the Sydney Catholic Schools community even as they master their craft at a Catholic university,” she said.

Angelina echoed the importance of this support network, noting that the scholarship eases the pressures often associated with university life.

“Through extensive mentorship and opportunities for employment whilst studying, the scholarship not only eases the pressures often associated with university life, but it reminds me that education is a shared mission, and that I am supported by a community that believes in the transformative power of teaching,” she said.

Michaela Zizovski, a 21-year-old former student of Good Samaritan Catholic College Hinchinbrook, said the program has played a key role in preparing her for the classroom and securing a full-time teaching position.

She …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auFebruary 9, 2026|

Breaking barriers: Liam’s path to success with the CEF

For Liam*, completing high school was more than an academic milestone; it was a victory against overwhelming odds.

Thanks to the support of the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF), Liam was able to rise above personal challenges and thrive at Patrician Brothers’ College Fairfield.

Liam’s story began with upheaval. Before starting high school, he and his younger brother returned to Sydney from Cairns after experiencing domestic violence at home.

Their grandmother stepped in, providing a safe haven, taking on the financial strain of their education, and delaying her retirement. Despite his grandmother’s dedication, the mounting costs of school fees and the emotional toll of family difficulties became too much to bear.

In 2021, Liam’s wellbeing coordinator, Mrs D’Amico, stepped in to help. Recognising the family’s challenges, she introduced them to the CEF, which provided a bursary that lifted the financial burden and allowed him to remain at Patrician Brothers’ College.

“The CEF and Mrs D’Amico’s support made all the difference,” Liam said. “It eased the pressure on my grandmother and let me focus on my education instead of worrying about how we’d manage.”

The CEF’s assistance extended far beyond finances. With the stability it offered, Liam embraced opportunities for personal and academic growth. Leadership roles such as becoming a Senior Prefect, helped him develop resilience, confidence, and a strong sense of responsibility.

“These experiences shaped me,” Liam shared. “They pushed me to be a better version of myself and taught me the importance of perseverance.”

Liam also credits his Catholic education for reinforcing values like respect, integrity, and faith. …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auDecember 23, 2024|

Former refugee Asteer tops state in Arabic Extension

Mary MacKillop Catholic College Wakeley student Asteer has reached an impressive milestone, placing first in the state for Arabic Extension in the 2024 HSC and achieving an ATAR of 95.15.

This triumph symbolises years of hard work and overcoming adversity, with Asteer’s story beginning far from her Sydney classroom.

Born in war-torn Iraq, Asteer’s education was disrupted for seven years. Her family later migrated to Australia as refugees, facing immense challenges, including cultural adjustment, language barriers, and the emotional toll of starting over.

In conjunction with the hard work of staff at Mary Mackillop Catholic College and through the guidance, generosity and support of the City Link Mentor Program, Asteer transformed obstacles into opportunities.

As part of the program a dedicated mentor and businessman has supported her journey since Year 9.

Mentors in the City Link Mentor Program contribute $5,000 per year per student, meeting with them at least four times annually.

Over the years, Asteer’s mentor has invested into her education and played a pivotal role in her growth. His decision to continue mentoring two additional students next year exemplifies the profound impact of the program.

“The City Link Mentor Program wasn’t just financial support, it gave me hope and reminded me to believe in myself,” Asteer shared. “It allowed me to focus on catching up on my education and rebuilding my future without the constant stress of financial burdens.”

The City Link Mentor Program’s assistance became a cornerstone of her success, providing the stability she needed to tackle her studies head-on.

Not only did Asteer catch up on her education, but she excelled, embodying the values of perseverance and hard work.

Reflecting on her journey, Asteer emphasised the importance of confidence. “Confidence is key,” she explained. …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auDecember 18, 2024|

From refugee to role model: CEF helps Sarah thrive

Sarah’s story reflects the determination and resilience of many young people seeking a fresh start, culminating in her impressive achievement of an ATAR of 97 in the 2024 HSC.

After arriving in Australia as a refugee, Sarah’s journey from adapting to a new education system to excelling in her HSC at Mary MacKillop Catholic College was made possible with the support of the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF).

Originally from war-torn Iraq, Sarah and her family lived in Jordan before resettling in Australia. Adjusting to a new environment came with challenges, as her family focused on priorities like securing housing, employment, and stability.

“My access to educational resources was limited, but the CEF gave me greater opportunities in education that I wouldn’t have been able to afford otherwise,” Sarah explains.

The CEF bursary provided more than just financial relief. It gave Sarah the confidence to embrace her education fully. “Receiving the bursary showed me that people believed in my potential,” she says. “It inspired me to work hard, give back to my community, and help others who face similar challenges.”

Speaking about the Foundation’s commitment to supporting refugee students, Kathleen Badolato, Supervisor at the CEF, explained: “The Catholic Education Foundation is dedicated to supporting students like Sarah, who show incredible resilience and determination despite the challenges they face”.

“Sarah’s story demonstrates how, with the right guidance and resources, refugee students can unlock their full potential and build a future filled with opportunity and hope.”

When Sarah started at Mary MacKillop Catholic College, English was her fourth language. After only two to three years of learning the language, she …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auDecember 18, 2024|

Batger Furniture: Catholic Education Foundation Supplier Hero

Two minutes with CEF Rebecca Bissett from Batger Furniture

Today, we’re speaking with Rebecca Bissett, account manager at Batger Furniture, a Sydney-based company and long-time partner of Sydney Catholic Schools. Batger recently became a Sapphire Corporate Partner of the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF). Rebecca, can you tell us a bit about Batger’s connection to Sydney Catholic Schools?

Rebecca: Of course! We’ve been providing furniture to Sydney Catholic Schools for years, helping create engaging and welcoming learning spaces for students and staff. As a former student and a parent of children who attended a Sydney Catholic school, I’ve seen firsthand how these schools foster strong, supportive communities.

Now that’s a personal connection to SCS! Why did Batger Furniture decide to support the CEF?

Rebecca: When the opportunity arose to become a sapphire corporate partner, we didn’t hesitate. It was a chance to give back to the community and help students access a Catholic education, especially those who might not have been able to without financial assistance from the Foundation.

How do you see these bursaries impacting students?

Rebecca: They’re incredibly important. Educational bursaries help students reach their potential, no matter their financial situation. It opens doors to a brighter future and ensures everyone has the chance to succeed.

What would you say to other businesses considering supporting the CEF?

Rebecca: I’d say go for it! It’s a rewarding way to help students in need while strengthening your business’s ties to schools and communities. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

Thanks for your time, Rebecca, and for the amazing work you’re doing with the CEF.

Rebecca: Thank you! We’re proud to be part of such a meaningful initiative. CEF and LJ Harper: A powerhouse partnership

domenictrimboli01November 14, 2024|

CEF Keeping The Fire Burning this NAIDOC Week

The Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) is excited to announce the introduction of two new scholarship initiatives that will support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS).

The CEF, the not for profit charity of Sydney Catholic Schools, is working with the University of Notre Dame to implement scholarships that will enable 10 Year 12 students to attend the university.

The scholarships will provide for out-of-pocket expenses, offer casual employment within SCS related to students’ field of study, and include an annual retreat to support their wellbeing and spirituality.

The CEF is also teaming up with Bennelong Energy Services (BES), an Indigenous operated electrical and security company owned by NRL legend Cliff Lyons, to help support a new generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tradespeople.

BES is providing two bursaries for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to undertake school-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBAT) within SCS, as well as work placements with the company.

The scholarships were announced during an event at Sydney Catholic Schools’ World Square Office which coincided with this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations.

Kathleen Badolato from the CEF said the support from both the University of Notre Dame and BES will prove invaluable to the many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students within SCS.

“The CEF currently financially supports 965 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander

Students throughout SCS and the contributions of both organisations allows us to further that work,” she said.

“Importantly, both scholarship programs are centred on helping our students transition from school into the world beyond, and equipping them with the confidence and skills to succeed in whatever path they choose.”

Gaven Sheehan, Director and General …

domenictrimboli01July 5, 2024|

Empowering refugee students through a Catholic education

It’s a typical Monday morning at All Saints Catholic College Liverpool in south-west Sydney, one of the largest and most vibrant Catholic schools in Australia. As students gather around lockers and corridors, preparing for another day of learning, the school resonates with a vibrant energy that sets it apart.

Unlike many typical Australian schools, the college echoes with the laughter and chatter of refugee students from Syria, Iraq and Palestine, contributing to a bustling multicultural community.

This is a place where differences are celebrated, where every student finds a welcoming environment to thrive and grow, while honouring their often extraordinary backgrounds

Underpinning this commitment to supporting refugee students, is Sydney Catholic Schools’ Catholic Education Foundation (CEF).

The CEF’s Refugee Bursary ensures all children, regardless of their circumstances, have access to a quality Catholic education. It offers crucial support to families who’ve fled their countries of origin to seek safety, peace and opportunity in Australia.

At All Saints Catholic College, the integration and support of refugee students into the school community is approached with a deep sense of compassion. This commitment is evident through various initiatives and perspectives offered within the school community.

A former refugee student returns as a staff member to pay it forward

Former student, Nancy, had only just turned six when war broke out in Syria.

“We were living a normal life until the war started, then things started to deteriorate and get bad. By the end of 2016, it was a threat to our lives to stay there. There was no electricity, we had to find a solution,” Nancy said.

Nancy’s family fled to Lebanon and applied to come to Australia. Six months later, aged 13, she and her family set foot …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auJune 24, 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|

2026 CEF Teaching Scholarship recipients welcomed into SCS community

Breaking barriers: Liam’s path to success with the CEF

Former refugee Asteer tops state in Arabic Extension

From refugee to role model: CEF helps Sarah thrive

Batger Furniture: Catholic Education Foundation Supplier Hero

CEF Keeping The Fire Burning this NAIDOC Week

Empowering refugee students through a Catholic education

CEF Launches The Giving Circle

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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