Newsletter 16.24 - Friday 27 September 2024

Principal's Message

Year 12 Graduation: A time of Reflection and Gratitude

As the new Principal of St Mary’s Catholic College, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing, for the first time, the rich traditions and deep sense of connection that define our community. This past week has been a testament to what makes this place so special—our shared values of love, service, and commitment to one another.

Our Year 12 students, families, and staff came together in a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Father Greg Barker on Tuesday evening. The Graduation Mass was a beautiful occasion, where we collectively gave thanks for the journey our Year 12 students have travelled. This was followed by Wednesday’s Graduation Ceremony, filled with joy and pride, where students received their awards, were honoured in speeches, and, in a final poignant moment, were clapped out by their peers. These events showcase the deep bonds within our community, the way we stand beside one another in both celebration and challenge.

In my short time here, what has impressed me most is the overwhelming sense of support and care that surrounds our students. The growth and success of our Year 12s is the product of the love and guidance from their families, teachers, and peers. Mr. Gerard Cushan, our Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement, alongside their classroom teachers and roll-call mentors, has walked with them, ensuring they are not only prepared academically but also spiritually and emotionally.

At the heart of these celebrations is a deep sense of gratitude. We give thanks for the opportunity to have been a part of these young people's lives. We give thanks for the vision of the Sisters of St Joseph, whose founding spirit of love, compassion, and service continues to guide us today. We give thanks for the legacy of education they established, shaping the fabric of our community and influencing our values of love, justice, and service

Excerpts from Graduation Speech

I emphasized that their parents, carers, and teachers have been crucial in shaping their development, and now, as graduates, they are called to live out the values of compassion, respect, and hope. It’s a call to leadership rooted in humility and service:

In reflecting on the legacy of the Sisters of St Joseph, I urged our graduates to continue their mission: In the words of Father Julian Tenison Woods:

Ultimately, I encouraged our students to embrace their unique journeys with courage and faith:

As they step into the future, I left them with a timeless piece of advice from Mark Twain:

We are immensely proud of our graduating class and confident they will continue to live lives of service, love, and integrity.

Wishing our Community a Safe and Relaxing Break

As we conclude what has been a very busy and productive term, I want to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to all our families, students, and staff for your dedication and hard work.

Now, it’s time for a well-earned rest. I wish you all a safe, peaceful, and joyful holiday with your loved ones. May this time be filled with relaxation, laughter, and moments to recharge, as we prepare to return for the final term of the year.

I look forward to welcoming everyone back, refreshed and ready to continue our journey together. As a community connected through our love of learning, the deep bonds we share, and our faith, may we continue to grow and support one another in all that we do.

Brett Donohoe - Principal

Key Dates

Two weeks at a glance - Weeks 1 and 2 - Term 4

Ministry

End of Term Reflection and Celebrating the Month of Mary

As we approach the end of another fruitful term, it’s a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration within our school community. This term has been filled with learning, growth, and the building of bonds that make our school a place of love, service, and academic excellence. We have seen our students embrace the opportunities offered to them, both in the classroom and through the many extra-curricular activities that continue to develop their talents and character.

As we come to the end of Term 3, let us take a moment to reflect on the significance of September as the month dedicated to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, who is also our school patron and namesake. Mary exemplifies faith, compassion, and humility—virtues that we strive to instil in all our students. Her “Yes” to God is a powerful reminder of the strength and grace that can be found in service to others and trust in God's plan.

Throughout this month, we have had the opportunity to reflect on Mary’s life and her role in the Catholic faith through prayer and College liturgies. As a community, we have come together to honour her as a model of discipleship and to seek her intercession in our daily lives.

September has also been a time to reflect on the role of Mary in our school’s founding values, as we are reminded of the Josephite Sisters' vision to provide education inspired by her love and service to others. Their legacy continues today in our ongoing commitment to providing a Catholic education that nurtures the whole person—spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally.

As we move into the holiday break, I encourage all our students and families to take time for rest and renewal. May you return refreshed and ready for the challenges and opportunities of the final term of the year. Let us also continue to pray for Mary’s guidance and protection over our college and our community, just as she watched over her son, Jesus.

Thank you to all the students, staff, and families for your commitment and hard work this term. May you have a restful and blessed break. May we echo Mary’s ‘yes’, we are ready to Serve.

DeAnna Addicoat - Ministry Coordinator

Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching

Dear Year 12,

As the end of Term 3 approaches, you are invited to accept the offer of additional workshops and support for you in your HSC . While there is no expectation that you attend – we encourage you to attend where possible. Please see below for details regarding dates and times.

For more detailed information please speak with/email your individual teachers.

Please note – the Café will be open for study on Monday to Friday in the first week of the holidays for general study from 8.30am – 12pm. We wish you a happy and restful holiday.

Mrs O’Gorman and Mr Cushan

Year 12 Major Awards 2024

Cross-Curricular Excellence Award

This award is presented to students who have achieved outstanding results across TEN or more units of study, achieving either First in Course or in the Top 10% of each of their courses.

The student who is to receive this award has displayed Academic Excellence and was placed 1^st in Course in Chemistry, 1^st in Course in Biology, 1^st in Course in  Mathematics Extension 2, 1^st in Course in Studies of Religion 2U, and showed Scholastic Achievement in achieving the top 10% in the course for English Standard.

The recipient of the Cross-Curricular Academic Excellence Award for 2024 is Bethany Spencer

The VET Student of the Year Award

This year our College VET student is highly organised, reliable, and shows a strong work ethic, consistently meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations.  Our VET student of the year has exhibited excellent growth in communication and interpersonal skills, making them a valuable team member and a leader among their peers. Our VET student of the Year has taken constructive feedback positively and used it to enhance their performance. They have received commendations for their performance during work placements; highlighting their readiness for Industry.

Our VET Student of the Year has successfully completed two VET courses: a Cert II in Automotive in Year 11 at TAFE and Cert II in Construction in Stage 6.

Our 2024 VET student of the year is well respected and has thrived in Vocational Education and Training and is the College’s nominee for the Catholic Schools Office VET Student of the Year Award, the recipient of the St Mary’s Catholic College is Max McDonald.

Vice Chancellor's Award for Academic Excellence

The Vice Chancellor's Award for Academic Excellence consists of a certificate and a scholarship offer of $2000 if the student enrolls in an undergraduate program with the University of Newcastle in 2024.

While there are several students who have worked impressively throughout their senior years, there are none more deserving than this student, whose commitment and desire for excellence has been exceptional.

This student has demonstrated throughout the HSC year, a commitment to growth, an openness to learning from feedback, perseverance and a genuine desire to learn and develop academically. Teachers have identified this student as someone who holds a positive attitude and diligent approach to all aspects of class work, always listening attentively to the views of others and conveying perceptive insights in their written work in all areas of the syllabus; they demonstrate flair and maturity in written work, actively participate in class discussions with insights which demonstrate a thorough understanding of content; they demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills, proactive in their learning, seeking assistance when required. This person is said to be always respectful of their peers by listening intently during class discussion and providing thoughtful responses.  They are considered inclusive and respectful in their relationships and have always sought continual improvement; insightful and being a deep thinker, came up in many of this students’ report comments.

The academic achievement of this student includes 4 x First Places and 1 x Third place from SIX courses completed, all achieved with quiet grace, humility and commitment.

The recipient of the Vice Chancellor’s Award for Academic Excellence in 2024 is Bethany Spencer.

The ADF Long Tan Leadership Award

Each year the ADF presents an award for Leadership and teamwork. The recipient must be a student who demonstrates leadership within the community, a team player whose knowledge, appearance, and behaviour demonstrate respect for the values of the school and the community. The recipient must be an enthusiastic problem solver who cooperates and communicates well with others and who involves themselves in community activities.

This year’s award recipient exceeds these criteria in many ways….

As a Student Leader she has demonstrated a willingness to build relationships across the College with both staff and students, she has proven herself to be both personable and professional in her conduct, communicating and cooperating successfully throughout the academic year. Staff comment included: “she a shining example of the best our college has to offer, consistently excelling across all subjects with dedication and hard work. As a role model, she frequently helps younger students, creating a supportive and positive atmosphere. Her leadership is evident in her active involvement on the student leadership team, where she has been instrumental in organizing numerous successful events. Always in uniform and representing the school with pride at carnivals, she is not only a symbol of academic excellence but also a warm, approachable, and welcoming presence in our school community.

The recipient of the 2024 Long Tan Award is Bethany Spencer

The ADF Future Innovators Award                

Each year the ADF presents the Future Innovators Award. The recipient must be a student who has demonstrated a passion for and skill in the areas of mathematics, science, and technology. The recipient will have been identified by the teaching staff as an exceptional learner and one who is likely to contribute new and innovative thinking in their chosen field of future study. Staff feedback on the recipient this year included that he is a student with a particularly astute mind and quick wit. He has shown interest, perseverance and talent in the mastery of the deeper more complex problems presented within coursework. He is a high achiever who excelled across a range of academically challenging disciplines.

The recipient of the 2024 Future Innovators Award is William Kirkman

The Sporting Excellence Award

This award recognises a student who has excelled in a range of sporting endeavours, demonstrating virtues such as fairness, self-control, determination, and courage both on and off the field.

Our recipient this year has achieved excellence across a range of sports and enjoyed success in the following pathways. He was awarded Athletics Age Champion in 2023 & 2024. He represented the College in athletics and rugby league at Diocesan level in 2024. He went on to represent the Diocese at the NSWCCC athletics, placing 5th in the 100m final and 13^th in the final of the 200 m. He subsequently qualified for All Schools Athletics. He was named as part of Laurie Daley U/18s Knights Development Squad in 2024 and is a proud member of the Lakes United U/19s Rugby League team. He has consistently demonstrated determination and enthusiasm in every sport he undertakes, showcasing his exceptional talent and commitment to excellence.

The recipient of the Sporting Excellence Award for 2024 is Harrison Quinn

The Citizenship Award this year is supported by Pat Conroy Federal Member for Shortland

The College award for citizenship is presented to a student who is friendly and approachable, who has been involved in a wide range of school activities to assist in the building of the College Community, and who has an exemplary attendance and behaviour record.

Our recipient this year is a young woman who according to staff “consistently demonstrates a commitment to service, often taking initiative and showing remarkable courage in developing and supporting projects like the implementation of ‘Period Positivity.' She has a strong sense of social justice and is willing to stand up for what is right, she is helpful and compassionate and can be relied on to prioritize the needs of the community, exemplified in her support for the sports program. She has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to maintaining the high standards of the College, always abiding by the mantra, wearing her school uniform with pride and living the motto Ready to Serve. She has been an incredible asset to the St Mary's community throughout her entire 6-year journey”.

The recipient of the Citizenship Award for 2024 is Annabel Brown

The Award for Integrity sponsored by Reuben F Scarf                                         

This award recognizes a student who has a unique strength of character, demonstrated by a steadfast commitment to the achievement of their personal goals and an overarching integrity that unites and aligns their efforts. They are a student who is humble and hardworking, a student who has committed themselves to the achievement of their personal goals but have still found ways to give of themselves generously both within the classroom and to the broader community.

Our recipient this year embodies the qualities of determination, integrity, and consistent effort. Staff comment included the following: “Throughout her time at our school, she has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the achievement of her goals supported by a steadfast work ethic. Her dedication to her studies and personal growth is unwavering. She approaches each challenge with a positive attitude and reflects on her learning for both academic and personal growth. Her integrity shines through in her interactions with peers and teachers alike, she is an exceptional young lady. She has been a committed member of the Student Leadership Team, taking part in many group events as well as working to implement the Period Positivity Program. Her attendance has been outstanding, when absent she stays in touch with teachers to ensure she is staying committed and up to date on her work as much as possible. Her friendliness, grace, integrity, humility, determination, and compassion are unrelenting.

The recipient of the Reuben F Scarf Award for Integrity is Halle Johnson

The Josephite Sister’s “Ready to Serve” Award

This year is the celebration of our 60^th year as a Josephite school. To mark this event, we have created the inaugural “Josephite Sisters - Ready to Serve” award. The intent of this award is to recognise a young person within the graduating class who exemplifies the core values and spirit of the Sisters of St Joseph. The recipient of this award must have consistently demonstrated empathy, compassion and kindness towards others; demonstrated humility by joyfully serving without seeking recognition and actively contributed to the building of the College community spirit.

Staff comments on our recipient this year included the following: “she is a model student, she adheres to the school mantra, she has served the community through her work on the student leadership team, she is highly regarded by her peers and is always actively contributing to our community. She has supported College events, such as the swimming and athletics carnivals, charity and feast days celebrations, and does so with pride and joy.

The recipient of the inaugural Josephite Sister’s Ready to Serve Award is Samantha Johnson

All-Rounder Award

The All-Rounder Award this year is supported by Jodie Harrison State Member for Charlestown – thank Ms Checkley for stepping in                                    

This award recognises a student who has participated in a wide range of activities and achieved across a range of academic, cultural, and community service fields. The recipient of this award possesses characteristics that the College strives to instil in all its students because they are the cornerstones of success and the hallmarks of a richly integrated life.

Staff comment on our recipient this year included: “He is a natural leader, generously contributing his gifts to the academic and cultural life of the college. He is a standout student, excelling academically while showcasing remarkable leadership and dedication to the college community. His ability to balance his studies with his commitment to mentoring peers and co-managing college events reflects his strong sense of responsibility, ambition and drive. He is deeply respectful of the College motto and mantra - wearing his uniform with pride and dedicating himself to growing as a learner. He demonstrates kindness and generosity and travels through life with a quiet a quiet humility.

The recipient of the All-Rounder Award for 2024 is Daniel Ollerton

Principal's Award

The Principal's Award supported by Yasmin Catley, State Member for Swansea

The Principal’s Award is presented to students who enhance the culture of our college through their actions and attitudes. These students live the values and ideals of our community, quietly giving life to the College motto, Ready to Serve. With humility and strength, they go about making St Mary’s Catholic College a better place for others. We have two award recipients this year:

Our first recipient of a Principal's Award has been an active contributor to College life for 6 years and is also a valued member of the Student Leadership Team. According to staff, he is always there when you need a hand, generously giving of his time.  He is both friendly and approachable and has built relationships across the community with both staff and students.

The first recipient of a Principal's Award is Bailey Gilbert

Our second recipient is a diligent student, who is always giving his best. He applies himself with goodwill and determination in all situations, tirelessly giving his time in support of both the social and cultural life of the College. Staff comment included the following: “As a role model to his peers, he exemplifies leadership, not only through his academic excellence but also as an active member of the leadership team, where he has played a key role in organizing events throughout the year. Always in uniform and representing the school with pride at carnivals and other events, he is a true asset to our community, showcasing the values and spirit of our college in everything he does.

The second recipient of a Principal's Award for 2024 is Cooper Browne

Being a leader requires strength, resilience, patience, empathy, and creativity. Within our community we also expect that our leaders emulate a Christ-like selfless humility, anticipating and serving the needs of the community.

Our student and College Leaders in 2024 have honoured the Sisters of St Joseph and the heritage of St Mary’s Catholic College community in the way they have risen to the challenge of authentic Christian leadership and lived our motto Ready to Serve. We are incredibly blessed to of been graced by their presence and efforts this year. We acknowledge the Student Leadership Team:

1. Annabel Brown
2. Cooper Browne
3. Nate Fisher
4. Bailey Gilbert
5. Samantha Johnson
6. Halle Johnson
7. Beau McCabe
8. Harrison Quinn
9. Tom Skelly
10. Bethany Spencer
11. Hannah Spencer
12. Jessica Visscher
13. Ella Young

This wonderful team was led by our 4 College Leaders:

1. Carlos Corredor Marchesini
2. Holly Hayes
3. Daniel Ollerton
4. Elleni Pedonese

Thank you all for your Leadership. We wish you the very best of luck for your future endeavours.

Leader of Wellbeing - Year 12

Final LoWE address to the graduating class of 2024

Good morning students, parents/carers, extended family and staff,

It is with genuine pleasure that I stand before you today at our final assembly. As Year 12 students, you are on the brink of an exciting transition - moving from the familiar structure of school life into a world full of possibilities and uncertainties. Today, I want to reflect on the two themes that we have had during Years 11 and 12; Find your Voice and Courage in Vulnerability.

Last year you were challenged to Find your Voice. We discussed that this could be your own voice, advocating for yourself if you needed help and support, or advocating for someone who is unable to speak up. Students responded by seeking support for themselves or for their friends. Several students came forward and clearly articulated areas that the College could improve. These areas included increased education in positive relationships and youth mental health. By finding their voice these students helped pave the way for change. The new support positions of Stage Coordinators have seen, as part of their role, the establishment of wellbeing sessions that aim to address the areas of concern raised by the students. In another example, a group of students found their voice, and put together an impressive presentation that ultimately led to the approval of a Year 12 jersey. While the timeframe to order and receive the jerseys was too short for this to occur for the class of 2024, their efforts have paved the way for future cohorts to have a jersey.

Courage in Vulnerability has been our main theme for 2024. What does it mean? Courage is the most straightforward of these words; most would interpret it as being brave. Vulnerability, however, is often misunderstood. Society tends to view vulnerability as a weakness, something to be avoided or hidden. Though, true courage is often found in the willingness to be vulnerable, to embrace our authentic selves despite the risks.

To our Hermione Grangers, Ron Weasleys and Harry Potters out there, we have the story of J.K. Rowling. In the 1990s, a young author was struggling. She was a single mother, living on welfare, and her manuscript for “Harry Potter” had been rejected by multiple publishers. It would have been easy for her to give up, to hide her dreams and her struggles from the world. But she chose not to. She continued to work on her book, embracing the vulnerability of pursuing a dream that many considered improbable. Her openness to sharing her story, and her courage in continuing despite the setbacks, eventually led to an incredible success. The “Harry Potter” series became a global phenomenon, reaching millions and millions of people, and inspiring others to believe in their own potential.

This story highlights a crucial lesson: vulnerability is not a weakness. It’s a strength. It requires immense courage to be open about our dreams, our fears, and our struggles. In your own lives, this means allowing yourself to be seen for who you truly are. It means being honest with yourself and others about your challenges and your aspirations.

Consider the relationships you build. The deepest and most meaningful relationships are those built on authenticity and trust. When you allow yourself to be vulnerable, you invite others to do the same. You create a space where real conversations can happen, where support and understanding are genuine.

But vulnerability is not just about relationships; it’s also crucial for personal growth. Take a moment to think about the times you’ve learned the most about yourself. Often, it’s when you’ve stepped out of your comfort zone, faced your fears, or encountered failure. Each of these moments involves vulnerability. They require you to be honest with yourself about what you don’t know and to have the courage to learn and grow from those experiences.

Let me share another example. Consider Thomas Edison, the inventor of the lightbulb. Edison faced numerous failures and setbacks throughout his career. When asked about his many unsuccessful attempts, he famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” His ability to embrace vulnerability, to see failure not as a dead end but as a step toward success, was key to his ultimate achievements.

As you prepare to leave school and step into the next phase of your life, remember that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. It’s okay to ask for help, to seek guidance, and to take time to explore what truly matters to you. The journey ahead may be filled with uncertainties, but embracing vulnerability will help you navigate it with greater resilience and authenticity. By allowing yourself to be vulnerable, you open yourself up to growth, to new opportunities, and to the possibility of achieving great things.

In the coming years, you will encounter challenges. There may be times when you feel uncertain or overwhelmed. It’s during these moments that embracing vulnerability can be especially powerful. Allow yourself to acknowledge your feelings, to seek support from others, and to take steps forward even when you’re unsure of the outcome.

One thing that I am particularly proud of is the sense of community at St Mary’s. This has been evident on numerous occasions this year. When someone has experienced tough times, the support from their peers, staff and families in our community has been tremendous. I would like to thank all teaching staff who have assisted you over the years and extend that thanks to our College Counsellors, Alex and Amanda; and Jo from Beyond the Gates – the support that they provide to our students is amazing. Monday this week provided further evidence of the wonderful community that we have at St Mary’s. The Year 12 cohort supported a range of activities, particularly Emma’s Warriors, and as a result $1455.15 was raised to go to this worthy cause.

In conclusion, as you embark on this new chapter, I encourage you to approach life with the courage to be vulnerable. Embrace your true self, take risks, and connect deeply with those around you. The world needs your authenticity and your bravery. By being open and honest, you not only find your own path but also inspire others to do the same.

Congratulations on reaching this significant milestone. I wish you all the best as you step forward with courage, hope, and a willingness to embrace the beautiful complexity of being human. Let your light shine!

Gerard Cushan - Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement, Year 12

Year 12 Graduation Events

Movie stars and screen icons were on display at St Mary’s last Friday as our Year 12 students celebrated their final day of formal lessons. The creativity, time and effort put in by both staff and students made this a memorable start to our celebrations.

Monday was jam-packed with a range of activities, as students once again dressed up, and were creative with ‘anything, but a bag’. There were a few eskies, a motorised suitcase, an air fryer and a mailbox, just to name a few. The day started with a few activities, including putt-putt golf, volleyball and tug-o-war. Students and staff then set up for Emma’s Warriors, which raised $1455.15. Emma’s dad, Brendan Walsh addressed our Year 12 students in a poignant and heart-warming speech. Shortly after the Year 12 students packed up from a successful morning session and initiated a flash mob in the main Quad, ably led by Ms Flack and Ms Bunn. Once the dance moves had finished the highly anticipated Colour Run began.

Tuesday morning was a little more subdued as we met in The Josephite Centre to go through final preparations for the rules around the HSC and practice for the Graduation Mass and Awards Ceremony. Students heard from the Presiding Officer of the HSC Examination as the rules and procedures were addressed. Year 12 had an early finish in order to finalise uniforms for our Graduation Mass in the evening. Father Greg Barker delivered a poignant sermon to our Year 12 students and their parents/carers. It was a wonderful celebration to finalise 13 years of schooling and a realisation that this is only a part of life’s journey.

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On Wednesday we celebrated the achievements of our Year 12 students in the Awards Ceremony. Each graduand was presented with a portfolio and celebrated with friends and family. Following this we had our major award winner’s presentation. Students, families and staff shared in a morning tea, before our final Year 12 Assembly. Shortly after this, students participated in the annual Clap Out. What a rousing reception they received from the rest of the College as they walked through the school as a group for one final time. At the front of the school family, friends and staff were there to greet them with a smile, some tears and lots of photographs!

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Thank you for all who have supported these young men and women on their journey and who helped celebrate this milestone. Let your light shine!

Gerard Cushan - Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement Year 12

Association of Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools

Planning for a 2025 Conference was the main agenda item of the AJASS Executive when they met at Mary MacKillop Place on 12 September.

AJASS is the Association of Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools – and their charter commits them to continuing the educational mission of the Josephite order, informed explicitly by the specific charism and witness of the Sisters of Saint Joseph.

2025 is a Jubilee year, and the AJASS Executive are planning a conference with the Jubilee theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope’. This will be a conference focussed on recognising and celebrating the impact of AJASS schools since the Association was founded in 2005 (20 years ago), but there will also be a call to the Principals to be re-commissioned and sent again on mission, renewed and enlivened.

The conference will echo the walk to Emmaus, inviting Principals of AJASS schools to celebrate the people they walk beside, acknowledge the times they have welcomed the stranger, reflect on the times their ‘heart has burned within them’ through recognising Christ and, importantly, encourage an intentional reflection on how they lead after they walk back to their schools and tell the story.

Narelle Archer (Principal – Mount St Joseph Milperra), Sr Catherine Mead rsj, Kate Dishon (Principal – Mount St Joseph Altona), Chris Caldow (Principal – MacKillop College Werribee), Brett Donohoe (Principal – St Mary’s Gateshead), Chris Gabbett (AJASS president, Principal Mary MacKillop Catholic College Highfields).

Mathematics

During Term 3, students have engaged in a variety of maths activities designed to enhance both problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Year 7 have extended their algebraic skills in learning to solve equations and also measurement work on perimeter and area was applied in real-world problems, while Year 8’s work on Pythagoras’ Theorem has provided further insights to applications in construction, engineering and navigation where accurate distance calculations and spatial reasoning are essential.

Year 9’s work on statistical processes and analysis has also developed further knowledge and its importance. Over the last decade, careers in statistics have seen significant growth due to the increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making across industries. Roles like data scientists, statisticians, and data analysts have become some of the fastest-growing and highest-paying careers in the global job market.

Year 10’s probability group task showcased their creative, collaborative and communication skills when they developed a board game. This highlighted their understanding of single and multi-stage theoretical and experimental probability. Interactive group tasks, such as math challenges and puzzles, help reinforce teamwork and communication in solving mathematical problems.

Year 11 and 12 have also strived to complete their coursework in all levels this term. Additionally, practice sessions for tests ensured students were familiar with exam formats and time management strategies.

All these activities aim to build a solid foundation for future mathematics work. Remember, whether you're crunching numbers or cracking codes, in the world of maths, every problem is just a puzzle waiting to be solved – keep up the great work everyone!

Tania Eastcott - Leader of Learning, Mathematics

U15 NRL 9's

Last Thursday, the U15 boys Rugby League 9s team travelled to Salamander Bay to compete in the NRL 9s Timana Tahu Championships.

Despite being drawn in a tough pool, the team was tenacious throughout the day, demonstrating exceptional skill and teamwork.

In their first game, the team played Kurri Kurri High. Through several powerful runs and bone crunching defence, the boys were victorious 22 – 4, with George K securing a barnstorming hat-trick of tries.

In their next game the team played against Cardiff High in what was a high intensity and action-packed game. The boys were however unable to maintain their winning streak, eventually going down in a hard-fought loss.

The team were unfortunately unable to progress to the next stage of the tournament, but all players were exceptional ambassadors for our College and are to be congratulated for their efforts as they played with great commitment and sportsmanship.

Notable mentions go to George K and Nate L for their efforts throughout the day.

Finally, thank you to Mr Wilson for acting as assistant coach and high-performance sports trainer throughout the day.

Aspire - WOW Gallery

Expressions of Interest

Landcare

Unfortunately, some of our lovely trees have been vandalised within the College grounds. So much hard work is put in by the Landcare team and this incident is really disappointing however our spirits were lifted when the Year 10 Environmental and Sustainability class caught this water dragon basking in the sun on one of the damaged trees. Life goes on...

Sporting Achievements

Ruby Jones

At the 2024 Football NSW Gala Awards, held at The Star Event Centre in Sydney on Thursday 19 September, Ruby won the 2024 NPL Women’s NSW ‘Golden Boot’ Award and was honoured to be voted ‘Player of the Year’ by all of the Football Clubs in the NPL NSW Women’s league.  This outstanding recognition, in front of more than 1000 people at the awards event, wraps up a sensational football season for Ruby.  Unfortunately, Ruby couldn’t attend the Gala Awards, having moved to Spain in August to play football for CE Europa in Barcelona.

Ruby is settling well into her new country, new city, new club, new team and new school.  Ruby has already played in her first Spanish Tournament, the 2024 Catalunya Girls Cup, with CE Europa winning their Group undefeated in the first round.  They went onto win the Semi Final against Olympique Lyon from France, and unfortunately went down in the Grand Final 2-1 to FC Barcelona. It was an amazing experience for Ruby to play and score goals against some of the biggest Football Clubs in Europe, such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona and Olympique Lyon.

As the Spanish football season gets underway, Ruby’s typical day starts at 9am attending Spanish Language School, followed by gym, individual technical skills training, a siesta, then Club training with her team in the evenings.  Of course, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the city of Barcelona, shopping, and the amazing food catching up with her new friends and teammates from all over the world.

Bella Jones

At the 2024 Australian Sailing NSW / ACT Awards, held at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia in Sydney on Saturday 21 September, Bella won the ‘Instructor of the Year’ Award.  Bella has been sailing since age 8 and has been a fully qualified Sailing Instructor for the past 4 years at Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club and the Belmont 16ft Sailing Club.  Bella loves teaching adults and children to sail and enjoy the sport as much as she does.  Bella was honoured to be nominated for this prestigious award by Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club among so many talented sailing instructors.

The NCYC award submission recognised Bella as follows “Bella has been instrumental in delivering high-quality sailing programs at Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club. Her continuous learning and adaptation reflect her dedication to become a better instructor and deliver dinghy and keelboat programs to participants of all ages. Bella is strongly committed to student learning, safety, and customer care. Her clear communication, leadership and good character have contributed to the overall success of the NCYC Academy.”  Bella now progresses to the Australian Sailing National Awards on 1 November in Darling Harbour, Sydney.  Good luck Bella!

End of Term 3 .....