Newsletter 01.25 - Friday 7 February 2025
Principal's Message
Dear Parents, Carers and members of our community
A very warm welcome to the start of a new school year at St Mary’s Catholic College, a year I am confident will be filled with growth, challenges, and countless opportunities. I hope you’ve all had a restful and enjoyable break with your families and are looking forward to the journey ahead. A special welcome to our new students, particularly the 205 Year 7s who have already begun their high school journey supported by our wonderful Year 10 Support Leaders, Mr. Luschwitz, Ms. Anne-Maree Artis, and Year 7 roll call teachers. We also extend a heartfelt welcome to our 16 new staff members. As our student population grows to over 1000 students, so too does our expert teaching and support team.
As we gather as a community, it is important to remember the rich legacy on which St Mary’s was built, a legacy that shapes who we are and guides who we aspire to be. We stand on the shoulders of giants. Our story begins with the courage and vision of Father Julian Tenison Woods and St. Mary MacKillop, who were inspired by Mother Mary of the Annunciation's bold "yes" to God. This profound act of faith and service gave rise to the Josephite Sisters, whose selfless sacrifices made Catholic education accessible to the marginalised and families who could not afford it. In 1964, this very College was built to embody that mission, to care for and uplift those who might otherwise be left behind. The Sisters knew the transformative power of education to shape minds, build character, and empower young people to make positive contributions to the world. We inherit this sacred responsibility. As a school community, we have a moral imperative to honor these values by striving for excellence in learning, nurturing compassion, and being ready to serve.
This is the beginning of an exciting and transformative chapter in our Year 7 students lives. We value that they come from different schools and backgrounds, each bringing unique gifts that enrich our community. Starting high school can feel both thrilling and overwhelming, and that’s okay. What matters is that they show up, stay curious, and keep trying. Their teachers and peers are here to support them every step of the way. They learn that mistakes are simply steps on the road to growth. Our students need to be brave enough to try, learn, and discover the incredible things they are capable of achieving.
To our Year 12 students, I emphasised at our whole College assembly, this is their year to lead. They now carry the responsibility of shaping and nurturing the culture of our College. St Mary’s has always stood for high standards, strong values, and a commitment to learning and service. These are now in their hands. I asked them: “What legacy will you leave for St Mary’s? Will you be remembered for leading with integrity, compassion, and resilience? Cultivate strong habits that will set you up for success and inspire those around you to do the same. Lead well and leave a legacy that strengthens our community long after you have graduated.”
College Mantra
To all students, the College Mantra is how we do things at St Mary’s. It guides the way we conduct ourselves as a community where high standards and expectations shape our success. These expectations apply not just to our students, but they equally apply to our teachers. We are accountable to our students, ensuring we are on time, organised, and prepared to give our best so that our students can learn to the best of their ability. We are prepared to challenge every student regardless of their abilities so they each can share a sense of accomplishment and pride in their own holistic growth. We all share a responsibility to create a positive and respectful learning environment. Our mantra centres on three key principles:
Be Safe: We have no place for violence, intimidation, or inappropriate use of technology. Social media is a powerful tool but can cause harm when misused. Proceed with caution, know your rights and responsibilities, and be good digital citizens.
Be Respectful: Treat everyone with dignity and kindness. Wear your uniform with pride and represent our College professionally groomed as per our Uniform and Grooming Policy. These small details matter because they reflect who we are as a community.
Be a Learner: Embrace every opportunity to grow. Learning is not confined to the classroom; it’s a lifelong pursuit. Be punctual, prepared, and accountable for your growth. Commit to being on time and being present every day. Everyday counts!
Let this be the year where the St Mary’s community continue to dare to do their best, building strong habits, and striving to become the best versions of ourselves. Together, as a community standing on the foundation built by the Josephite Sisters, let us continue to uphold their legacy by living our motto, Ready to Serve. May this year be one of growth, joy, and success for everyone at St Mary’s Catholic College.
Staffing Update
Mrs. Carol Paterson, who has been a much-loved and highly respected member of our College since 2018, has been appointed to an exciting new role as Project Officer – Gifted Education Mentor within the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese. This is a tremendous leadership opportunity for her and a testament to her exceptional dedication and expertise in education. While we are genuinely thrilled for Mrs. Paterson as she steps into this important diocesan role, her departure will be a significant loss for our community. She has contributed so much to St Mary's. Her work has touched the lives of countless students and staff, and her legacy will not be forgotten. Her journey with us has been marked by countless achievements:
She was appointed Pedagogical Mentor in 2021, where she played a pivotal role in mentoring teachers and leading key initiatives. Her wisdom and encouragement helped elevate teaching and learning across the College, particularly during the challenging COVID-19 period. Mrs. Paterson has also served as our EALD teacher, providing tailored and compassionate support to students from diverse language backgrounds. Her musical talents have enriched our liturgies and events. A recipient of the 2023 Outstanding Professional Service Award, she is the embodiment of dedication, faith, and service. Although we will deeply miss her presence, we are immensely proud to see Mrs. Paterson share her expertise on a broader scale and help shape gifted education across the Diocese.
We are also delighted to welcome Ms. Clover Chatburn, who will join us as our teacher of Chinese next week while we begin the recruitment process for a languages teacher for the remainder of the year. We wish her every success and assure her that St Mary's will always be a place where she is warmly welcomed back. Mrs. Paterson, thank you for your heart, your passion, and your commitment to our community. You will always be a treasured part of the St Mary's family.
The growth of our College has also allowed us to attract a diverse group of talented new teachers and support staff, each bringing unique strengths, expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence. We warmly welcome the following new members of staff to St Mary’s:
Ms Justine Allison – joins us after a long career as a laboratory assistant, working across several hospitals including John Hunter Hospital.
Mr Dean Adamson - Permanent TAS Assistant, working every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday with the TAS department. Dean is a trade-qualified professional with extensive experience in maintenance and groundskeeping across both Catholic and Department of Education schools, most recently at St Brigid’s Catholic College, Lake Munmorah. His background in machining, cabinetmaking, and construction makes him well-suited to meet the TAS department’s high standards for safety and organisation.
Mr Timothy Barry - Permanent fulltime TAS teacher. Tim is an experienced and passionate educator with over eight years of teaching experience. Tim has been teaching at Glendale Technology High School, and prior to this taught at Hunter Sports High. He is qualified to teach Technology Mandatory, Industrial Technology Timber, Metal, Graphics, and Design and Technology. Additionally, he is a qualified VET Construction teacher.
Ms Skye Bedforth - Permanent fulltime HSIE teacher. Skye is an experienced and passionate educator with six years of teaching experience. She has been teaching at Warners Bay High School and prior to this taught at Great Lakes College Foster. She is qualified to teach in Stage 6 Ancient and Modern History, History Extension, Geography and Society and Culture. Skye has a strong foundation in the Catholic faith and brings experience in teaching diverse learners, including HSC students and a passion for Aboriginal Education.
Mr Harison Butler – Creative Arts Assistant. Harison has recently graduated from Melbourne University in a Fine Arts Degree – Curation. He has relocated to Newcastle recently and will be commencing further study at TAFE – working part time with us on Fridays in the Creative Arts team. He will support the Creative Arts and Languages cohort in setting up practicals, managing resources and specialist rooms and other duties.
Ms Julia Calver - Visual Arts teacher temporary 0.6FTE for 2025. Since 2018, Julia has been a dedicated member of our teaching staff, serving in both temporary part-time and casual roles. Her teaching journey also includes valuable experience at Cobar High School and Kurri Kurri High School, and prior to that, she contributed as a casual teacher and a temporary full-time teacher in the Visual Arts department here at St Mary’s. Julia brings extensive knowledge of our students and staff, along with exceptional expertise in Visual Arts.
Ms Bonnie Chen - Mathematics Teacher 1.0FTE Permanent. Bonnie joins us with teaching experience, most recently from St Bede’s Catholic College, Chisholm, and previously from Hennessy Catholic College in Young. She brings proven success in teaching students across a wide range of abilities, from lower-level classes to accelerated courses. Bonnie has experience in teaching Stage 6 Mathematics, Extension 1, and Extension 2, where her students achieved outstanding results.
Mr Simon Donohoe – English Teacher 1.0FTE Permanent Simon joins us with extensive English teaching experience across a wide variety of Independent, Catholic, and Department schools across the state since 2011. Most recently Simon was appointed to St Francis Xavier College, Hamilton at the start of this year as a teacher of Studies of Religion 1 and 2, and Studies in Catholic Thought. Prior to this he taught English at all levels from Stage 4 to Stage 6 Extension 2.
Ms Ellie Fletcher will join the English Faculty as a temporary full-time English teacher. Ellie holds a Bachelor of Education (Modern History and English) from the University of Newcastle and began her teaching career at Lambton High School last year.
Ms Emma Hocken - Temporary Science Teacher 0.7FTE. Emma holds a Bachelor of Science [Biology], MSc in Applied Equine Science, and a Mastery of Teaching (Secondary), and is approved to teach French. She has been working across several Diocesan schools temporarily in a range of teaching roles.
Ms Caroline Garvie - Learning Support Assistants Permanent 35 hours - has over 20 years of experience working in the disability sector. She spent the previous 6 years working as a Teachers’ Aide at Aspect in Thornton. Which is a school for students with autism. Prior experience includes working at St Dominic’s Mayfield and for Castle Personnel as a Disability support worker.
Mr Jason Smith - Learning Support Assistants Permanent 35 hours - worked at St Joseph’s Port Macquarie as a Learning Support Assistant for two years. He moved to Newcastle to support his daughter who was attending Hunter Sports High.
Ms Chelsea Iddon will join the HSIE Faculty in a 0.4 FTE temporary capacity, partnering with Tarryn Wilson in a job-share arrangement. Chelsea has already demonstrated her excellence as a classroom practitioner during previous temporary roles at St Mary’s. She has also been previously appointed as a Learning Support Teacher at San Clemente. Chelsea holds a Bachelor of Education from University of QLD with majors in Drama and Ancient/Modern History.
Ms Chantelle LeBrocq - HSIE Teacher 1.0FTE Temporary Terms 1-3 Chantelle has already been an invaluable addition to the HSIE faculty at St Mary’s over the past two terms, fulfilling both casual and block appointments with a high work ethic and a strong sense of teamwork. As a dedicated team player, she has seamlessly integrated into the HSIE faculty, consistently supporting her colleagues, and contributing positively to our college community.
Ms Debbie McRae – Senior Finance Officer. Deb as been St Pauls 16 years until seconded to the diocese Finance Department for the past four years for school support.
Ms Tayla Mullen will be joining the PE Faculty in 0.5 Temp capacity for the year, partnering with Mel Schultz in a Job-Share arrangement. Tayla holds a Bachelor of Education (PDHPE) and Special Education, and commenced her teaching career in Taree, followed by a relocation to Newcastle where she has been working across several Diocesan schools on a temporary basis in the areas of PDHPE, Learning Support and as a Casual teacher in other subjects.
Finally, as we celebrate the Catholic Silver Jubilee under the theme One Call. One Mission. As Pilgrims of Hope, we are reminded that this call is deeply embedded in our Catholic Identity at St Mary's. 'Ready to Serve' is not just our motto, it’s a way of living inspired by the teachings of Jesus and the values of our Josephite heritage. Pope Francis challenges us to be bearers of hope in a world that often feels divided and uncertain. At St Mary's, we accept that challenge. We are called to be a source of light, compassion, and service. Each of our students, has the power to embody this mission and they must never underestimate the impact of small acts of kindness. They are the seeds of hope that can grow into something much greater. Let this year be one where we continue to walk as Pilgrims of Hope, united by faith and a shared commitment to make a difference. Together, as one community, we can be a beacon of light that inspires and uplifts others, ready to serve, ready to lead, and always ready to bring hope.
Best wishes
Brett Donohoe - Principal

Dean Adamson

Justine Allison

Tim Barry

Skye Bedforth

Harison Butler

Bonnie Chen

Simon Donohoe

Ellie Fletcher

Caroline Garvie

Emma Hocken

Chelsea Iddon

Debbie McRae

Tayla Mullen

Jason Smith
Key Dates
Two weeks at a glance
Week 3 (A) 2025Monday 10 February | Photo Day - please see Compass notice |
Tuesday 11 February | Safer Internet Day |
Wednesday 12 February | Catholic Schools Diocesan Awards and Opening College Liturgy |
Thursday 13 February | Year 11 Drama excursion |
Week 4 (B) 2025Monday 17 February | JAMM Retreat (Senior Leaders) 2 days |
Tuesday 18 February | Photo Catch Up Day - please see Compass notice Extended PLM - students will be released at 2.40pm |
Wednesday 19 February | Year 11 Study Skills Day |
Friday 21 February | Newsletter 2.25 published |
Ministry
New Beginnings
The first day of a new school year is always full of laughter, promise, and a touch of anxiety. It is a joyful time-sharing holiday stories, admiring new hairstyles and clothes, meeting new teachers and students. It is a hopeful time—looking to improve, learning new skills and ideas, developing positive relationships, finding new friends, and rejoicing in the friendships we have.
For Australians, the school year begins after Christmas, New Year, Australia Day, and the Australian Tennis Open. This year is particularly special as we acknowledge our rich history and the foundation of our school, St Mary’s of the Annunciation, established by the Josephite Sisters from Lochinvar. Our college motto, inspired by Mary’s “Yes,” calls us to embrace our mission with open hearts and a readiness to serve.
Every new year I am excited by the fresh opportunities a new school year brings meeting new students, collaborating with new staff, and engaging in the challenge of writing and teaching new courses. I am still learning how to be a teacher.
We live in changing times, and teaching and learning continue to evolve. Our students are different each year, whether they are completely new or returning, because the world moves forward. we strive to be more creative, making lessons engaging, relevant, and connected to the world around us. Sometimes we succeed. Sometimes we miss the mark. But we are grateful for our students, who are kind, patient, and willing to share their feedback.
The most important part of a new school year is dreaming new dreams or keeping cherished dreams alive. Big dreams are not achieved overnight; they take years of perseverance, resilience, and hard work. Many of the facilities and advancements we take for granted today were made possible because of people who dared to dream.
Thomas Edison’s teachers once said he was "too stupid to learn anything." He was fired from his first two jobs for being "non-productive". As an inventor, Edison made 1,000 unsuccessful attempts before finally inventing the light bulb. When asked about his failures, he responded, "I didn’t fail 1,000 times. The light bulb was an invention with 1,000 steps." JK Rowling was turned down By 12 Publishers before finding success with Harry Potter Books.
“Some failure in life is inevitable". It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all—in which case, you fail by default.
Dreams of a just world have been realized through movements like Civil Rights, Women’s Suffrage, and organisations such as St Vincent de Paul. These movements were fuelled by people who dreamed of creating a more just society. Today, more than ever, we need to dream big dreams and hold fast to them in order to:
- Find ways to resolve conflict;
- Build a more just world;
- Cure diseases such as cancer, cystic fibrosis, motor neurone disease, Alzheimer’s, and dementia;
- Develop sustainable food production;
- Innovate with new technologies;
- Explore the vast potential of STEM.
Fortunately, we have students who dream big - those who aspire to cure cancer, build better robots, become chefs, scientists, teachers, builders, hairdressers and ministers. And we have dedicated teachers who will support them in their journey to achieve these dreams.
As a Catholic school, we are part of a long tradition of prophets and dreamers, following in the footsteps of those who sought to bring God’s love and vision to the world. As Scripture reminds us, “Your young people will see visions.” It is our vocation to dream boldly, to live lives of meaning and purpose, to understand what it means to live well, and to be a Eucharistic people inspired by faith.
This year, we unite under the theme “One Call, One Mission: Pilgrims of Hope”. This theme reminds us that we are called to walk together in faith, fostering hope and working towards a future where justice, kindness, and love shape our lives. As pilgrims of hope, we embrace new opportunities, remain steadfast in our beliefs, and journey forward with courage and compassion.
We are pleased to share that this year, a Year 7 class will attend Mass once per cycle at St Paul’s, strengthening their connection to our faith community and deepening their spiritual journey.
A Blessing for the New Year
Dream big, but be patient, for not all dreams come true in a hurry. Dream with believers who inspire you. Walk with warriors whose courage strengthens you. Laugh with the cheerful who encourage you. Keep your feet on the ground, but let your dreams soar. May the Spirit that empowers them ignite a fire within you, to leave this world a better place because of your dreaming. May your dreams move your feet to take those first tentative steps. May your dreams strengthen your hands for the hard work ahead. May your heart find the courage to overcome obstacles. May your mind clearly see the paths that are possible.
We are ready to serve and look forward to a year of growth, discovery, and dreams fulfilled.
DeAnna Addicoat - Ministry Coordinator
Staff Directory 2025

Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching
Welcome Back for 2025!
I take this opportunity to welcome all students back for the 2025 academic year. May it be a successful and happy time for all students, families and staff. Please see below for some important notices relating to learning at the college.
SMCCG Senior Study Guidelines – Attention Year 11 and 12!
At St Mary’s we are committed to providing quality study time to students when they are not in a timetabled class. Study Lessons are scheduled into the senior study space, classrooms and/or library.
Students understand that this is time to be taken very seriously, and that they are to come to the sessions with clear study goals. Study Lessons provide a time for completing classwork, preparing study notes, working on major works where applicable, and meeting with mentors or peers for the purpose of learning.
The following norms were agreed upon by staff and students, and are in line with the College Mantra – Be Safe Be Respectful Be a Learner:
- Each student has the right to a quiet, respectful environment for learning
- Opportunities for individual and group study will be provided
- Groups are to remain respectful of others when collaborating on tasks
- Each student is a unique individual and has autonomy and choice in the way they choose to learn and study
- With rights comes responsibilities – including ownership/maintenance of the study environment
Student Rights
- Each student has the right to a quiet, respectful environment for learning
- Students may use earphones for listening to a video/online resource
- Students may have access to studying in an outdoor space (when timetabled in the senior study space)
- Students have the right to be autonomous in how they wish to use this time, so long as it is for the purposes of learning and/or wellbeing (eg mindfulness activity or Mentor-Mentee conference)
Student Responsibilities
- Students will arrive to the Study Period on time and ensure that they are marked present for the session.
- Students are responsible in maintaining work habits that align with the college mantra - Be Safe Be Respectful Be a Learner, showing respect for others by doing their part to create an atmosphere that supports learning.
- Students are responsible for cleaning and maintaining L7 senior study area
- Students are responsible for adherence to the Mobile Phone Policy.
NAPLAN 2025
Once again, it is time to prepare for NAPLAN testing and both Years 7 and 9 will be partaking in the NAPLAN tests commencing Wednesday 12th March until Tuesday 18th March.
Should students ‘prepare’ for NAPLAN? The latest NAPLAN information brochure for parents and carers prepared by the Australian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (ACARA) stresses that students are not expected to study for NAPLAN. ACARA also does not recommend excessive preparation for NAPLAN “or the use of services by coaching providers”.
“You can support your child by reassuring them that NAPLAN is a part of their school program and reminding them to simply do their best,” the factsheet says. Please take the time to read the information brochure and familiarise yourself with what is involved. See following link: https://www.nap.edu.au/docs/default-source/default-document-library/naplan-information-brochure-for-parents-and-carers.pdf
Teachers will ensure students are familiar with the NAPLAN test site. In 2025 our students will sit NAPLAN tests in - Reading, Writing, Conventions of Language and Numeracy. A timetable will be made available in the coming week for students and families.
Assessment & Reporting at St Mary's
Please note that there have been some amendments made to our Assessment and Reporting processes in 2025 relating to Year 9 students – as outlined below.
Assessment is the broad name for the collection and evaluation of evidence of a student's learning. It is integral to teaching and learning and has multiple purposes. Assessment can enhance student engagement and motivation, particularly when it incorporates interaction with teachers, other students and a range of resources.
NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA)
Years 7 & 8 (Stage 4)
Assessment in Years 7 & 8 is formative in nature and is centred on student growth. Evidence of learning includes a variety of tasks, for, as and of learning, that are collated throughout the year by the classroom teacher AND the student (eg portfolio; process diary; learning log.) Compass Learning Tasks or TEAMS Assignments are also utilised by some teachers to provide relevant and timely feedback to students and parents in the learning process. For Years 7 & 8 students, individual teachers will manage formative and summative assessment within each faculty and, as such, an Assessment Handbook is not printed for these students.
At the end of each semester a report is issued identifying an overall level of achievement for each subject studied based on the Common Grade Scale. These Grades are awarded to each student based on the evidence collected throughout the learning process. Performance is measured against descriptors for A - E in that subject. Teachers collaborate in this process in professional learning teams.
Years 9 & 10 (Stage 5 Assessment)
In Years 9 & 10, assessment is still largely formative with no more than TWO formal summative assessment tasks completed by each subject per year. These two tasks per subject appear in the Stage 5 Assessment Handbook and Formal Task Notifications are issued to students at least two weeks in advance. These two formal tasks contribute to the awarding of Grades for the Stage 5 RoSA but are NOT the only evidence used to determine grades for the students. The gradual introduction of these formal Summative Tasks leads students towards an understanding of the nature and requirements of Stage 6 assessment.
The assessment and reporting principles outlined above for Stage 4 will also apply.
For Stage 5 Courses Grades A – E will be awarded for ROSA and submitted to NESA at the conclusion of the academic year.
NB There are no exam blocks scheduled for 2025 for Years 7 – 9. With longer lesson length, subjects may choose to complete assessment of student achievement in the longer periods. Students in Year 10 may be required to sit a formal examination at the end of the year for some subjects. The Formal Assessment Block will be held in Week 4 Term 4.
Years 11 and 12 Stage 6
As per NESA requirements, there are mandatory components and weightings for the Year 11 and Year 12 courses. The maximum number of formal assessment tasks is THREE in Year 11 and FOUR in Year 12, with only ONE task being a formal examination in Year 11 and Year 12.
- Year 11 – Maximum THREE Formal Tasks (ONE exam only).
- Year 12 – Maximum FOUR Formal Tasks (ONE exam only).
The Year 11 Mid-Course and End of Course Report contains an A-E descriptor against achievement of outcomes and a Cumulative Assessment RANK in Course. Year 11 students receive a Grade A-E based on the Common Grade Scale for Preliminary Courses. These grades are then submitted to NESA as part of the RoSA accreditation process.
The Year 12 Mid-Course and End Of Course Reports contain an A-E descriptor against achievement of outcomes and a Cumulative Assessment RANK in Course. HSC Internal Assessment Marks are submitted to NESA each year in September.
Additional Reference: https://www.educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/k-10/understanding-the-curriculum/assessment/assessment-principles
All Years 9 – 12 students will soon have access to their 2025 Assessment Handbooks & Calendars via the Student Portal under Assessment. The booklets contain all Assessment Schedules, calendars and due dates/weeks for our students.
Formal Assessment Dates are also visible on the Compass Calendar for students.
Please do not hesitate to email cathy.ogorman@mn.catholic.edu.au if there are any concerns/questions.
Stage 6 Study Skills and Induction Day
On Wednesday 19 February Year 11 students will be participating in a “Study Skills and Induction to Stage 6 Day” at the College. The Year 11 students will be rotating through a several sessions covering the following: An Introduction to NESA and studentsonline; Well Being and Life Balance; Learning Strategies & Planning Future Pathways.
These sessions are aimed to assist in preparing our students for their Preliminary and HSC years, providing them with the opportunity to reflect on their first weeks of Stage 6, their approach to study and their setting of goals moving forward. No permission note is necessary as we are on campus and the day is compulsory. Costs for the day have been paid for from the Student Resource Fee.
For the day students will need to:
- bring Student Handbook
- bring their devices, charged and ready for use throughout the day
- wear casual, comfortable clothing; enclosed footwear
- bring/order lunch on this day; afternoon tea will be provided
We encourage you to engage in conversation with your child in planning for the Study Day, supporting them to reflect on the start they have made to their Stage 6 journey.
SMCCG Stage 6 Study Skills & Induction Day
Tuesday 19 February 2025
This day is compulsory for all Year 11 students.

After Hours Study – Term 1 2025

Wishing all students a productive and happy year!
Cathy O'Gorman - Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
Year 7, 8 & 9 Awards 2024
Due to the final newsletter being published before the awards, we have pleasure in now publishing the academic results for Years 7, 8 and 9:
Year 9
Citizenship Award | Nicholas Toshak |
All Rounder Award | Xanthia Wadwell |
Sporting Excellence Award | Jacob Lynch |
Principals Award | Kate Whitby |
SMCCG Josephite Sisters “Ready to Serve” Award | Ava Hungerford |
Year 8
Citizenship Award | Gabrielle Ollerton |
All Rounder Award | Lily Merrell |
Sporting Excellence Award | Hamish Kirkman |
SMCCG Josephite Sisters “Ready to Serve” Award | Caitlyn Skinner |
Year 7
Citizenship Award | Hazel Boyd |
All Rounder Award | Bonnie Hackney |
Sporting Excellence Award | Elsie Howard |
SMCCG Josephite Sisters “Ready to Serve” Award | Ruby Dodds |
Congratulations!











Navigating AI Relationships

In today's world, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has infiltrated almost every aspect of our lives, including relationships. The rise of AI-powered romantic and companion bots is particularly popular among young people, offering a new frontier in human interaction. Initially emerging in the gaming world, AI companionship has evolved into mainstream culture, with apps providing personalised experiences that range from platonic friendships to romantic encounters. These apps allow users to create and interact with virtual partners, raising significant privacy and ethical concerns, particularly for younger generations.
Research highlights potential risks associated with AI companions, including the normalisation of inappropriate conversations and the possibility of grooming. Criminologists warn that children as young as 12 are accessing dating apps, often bypassing age restrictions, exposing them to sexual content and predatory behaviour. These interactions can blur the boundaries between real and virtual relationships, creating confusion and potential psychological harm.
Adolescents, in particular, may turn to virtual partners for validation, risking unhealthy emotional attachments that can affect their real-life relationships. These relationships often lack the mutual respect and effort required in real-world connections, which are crucial for personal growth. As AI technology continues to shape social dynamics, it's important for us all to stay informed and involved. AI has the potential to enrich educational experiences and foster creativity, but it also poses challenges related to privacy, mental health, and misinformation. By maintaining an open dialogue and promoting a balanced approach, we can help young people navigate this new digital landscape, allowing them to benefit from AI's advancements while protecting them from its potential risks.
2025 Vaccination Program - Year 7 & 10


Da Vinci Decathlon


2025 Photo Days
Monday 10 February – head shots only
Junior students – formal summer uniform (not sport uniform) to include compulsory tab tie for girls.
Senior students – formal uniform (not sport uniform). Students must have blazers for boys and girls, compulsory tab tie for girls, tie for boys. Shorts for boys are acceptable.
Tuesday 18 February – catch ups and Formal Year 12 photos
The formal Year 12 photo is being taken. Year 12 Students must all have blazers, compulsory tab tie for girls, tie for boys, long pants and belt.
Boys – please bring your formal shorts to change into after photos are taken.
A reminder that the Uniform Shop is open:
Tuesday 8.30am to 10.30am
Wednesday 8.30am to 10.30am
Thursday 12.45pm to 3.30pm

Symbolon

MacKillop Parish presents Symbolon: The Catholic Faith Explained
Symbolon is a faith formation series presented by Dr. Edward Sri and a team of theologians from the Augustine Institute. It presents the various facets of the Church's teachings that have been in existence for over 2000 years.
You are invited to come along to this free event which will run for 10 weeks starting on Wednesday, 5 February 2025 till Wednesday, 9 April 2025 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, in the Function Room at St Mary of the Cross Parish Hub, Charlestown. There is no commitment to having to come to all the sessions, just come when you can. Register at the door. Light refreshments will be served. Feel free to invite anyone you might know who may also be interested in learning more or deepening their knowledge about the Catholic Faith. Please see the flyer and episode guide for more details. For more information, please contact Yvonne Rego on 0450 323 206.


Canteen Price List 2025

