St Mary's Cathedral College Newsletter: Term 3, Week 10
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From the College Principal
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From the College Chaplain
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From the Assistant Principal: Mission
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From the Family Educator
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From the Assistant Principal: Senior School
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From the Assistant Principal: Middle School
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From the Assistant Principal: Junior School
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From the Assistant Principal: Liberal Arts
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From the Leader of Curriculum & Assessment
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From the Leader of Pathways & Partnerships
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From the Leader of Wellbeing
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From Science
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From HSIE
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From CAPA
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Music News
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From Diverse Learning
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Sports News
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From the Community
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Upcoming Dates
From the College Principal
As we prepare for graduation and the HSC exam period, we ask God to bless us as a community of faith and learning.
Bless our Year 12 students with goodness and success. Enable them to stay true to their dreams for your greater glory, to discern what is right, good and just, and to use their gifts wisely and in service to others.
Mary Help of Christians, pray for us.
Amen
Year 12 Graduation
This week, we bid farewell to the remarkable Class of 2025. These young men have left an indelible mark on the College, contributing to its legacy in countless ways. We had the honour of celebrating the Eucharist with them, a farewell breakfast and assembly, followed by a memorable Valedictory Awards and Dinner. Below is a brief excerpt from my message to them. As they prepare for their upcoming HSC exams, we extend our best wishes for success and eagerly await their return later this year to celebrate their outstanding achievements.
"... young people, aspire to great things, to holiness, wherever you are. Do not settle for less. Then you will see the light of the Gospel grow every day, within you and around you." — Pope Leo Graduates of 2025, these words from Pope Leo are not simply a call to action, they are a call to purpose. To aspire to greatness is not to chase prestige or power, but to seek lives of integrity, service, and holiness. You are invited to live boldly, with hearts open to grace and minds attuned to truth. Do not settle for less. You are a group of amazing, strong young men who are destined to make a mark on this world. Your theme this year speaks volumes about who you are: “Unity, Love Like Jesus, Unite as One.” You have certainly helped to unite the community during a period of change. You’ve shown a deep commitment to your faith, to each other, and to the broader community, leaving a lasting impact that will be felt long after you’ve moved on from St Mary’s. Thank you for being young men of integrity, and for engaging in all you do with an open heart and an open mind. We thank you for having the courage and conviction to truly be the light of hope at St Mary’s. Thank you also for often being the reason I smile each day. May God bless you all. |

































































2026 Student Leadership Team
We are excited to introduce the newly appointed Student Leadership Team at St Mary's Cathedral College Sydney for 2025/2026.
These outstanding young men have shown exceptional dedication, talent, and commitment to our community, and we are confident they will continue to inspire and lead their peers throughout the upcoming year.
Join us in congratulating these young men and supporting them as they embark on this exciting journey!!!
Jamie Naffah | Captain | |
Nathan Azzi | Vice Captain | |
Daniel Andrews | Liturgy Prefect | |
Enzo Calabria | Mission Prefect | |
David Merodio | Academic Prefect | |
Aidan Adler | Community Prefect | |
Lewis Crispin | Events and Communication Prefect | |
Oscar Barnett | Arts and Culture Prefect | |
Owen Kara | Environment Prefect | |
Frederick Reskakis | Moran House Prefect | |
Riley Power | Polding House Prefect | |
Daniel Russo | Kelly House Prefect | |
Oliver Ghantous | Vaughan House Prefect |


Building Works
Next term we begin construction in our Music wing as we convert the current music rooms and the TLA (tiered learning area) into new, vibrant spaces for music and drama. Following a thorough design consultation process, an architectural refurbishment project has been approved by Sydney Catholic Schools. Inspired by the Botanical Gardens and St Mary’s Cathedral, the new layout will include three dedicated music classrooms, rehearsal and recording spaces. It will also include a shared Drama and Music space, as well as teaching studios and practice rooms, two large storage rooms, with significantly improved instrument open storage.
In order to facilitate this work we will need to clear out all the music spaces. This means private tuition will be ceasing on 7 November. We thank parents for your understanding during this time. Whilst this may be a short term inconvenience, this work will provide significant improvements to the learning spaces which will be ready for use at the start of 2026.
We will also be undertaking some work in the hall foyer, turning a storage area into additional bathrooms.
On Leave
I am on leave until 27 October 2025. During my absence Christopher Maoudis will be acting Principal.
Finally, I wish all our students a safe and happy holiday break. Enjoy time with family and friends and we look forward to seeing you back at school refreshed and ready to begin another exciting term.
Kerrie McDiarmid, College Principal
From the College Chaplain

Dear SMCC Family,
Another term has gone by at our College, and there is a lot to give thanks to God for.
This week we celebrated the graduation of our marvellous Year 12 cohort, giving thanks to God for the gifts they have shared with our College and for their leadership and perseverance.
Last week I also celebrated my fifth anniversary of ordination to the priesthood (19 September 2025). I have felt very blessed that God has called me to His service as a priest and I give thanks to God for all the support He has given me through His Church, the People of God.
One of the great joys of the priestly life is in ministering to the young, and it is an incredible privilege to be Chaplain to our College. Your sons and daughters are all wonderful gifts from God and their enthusiasm and faith is inspiring and a great source of consolation in a world which can often be gloomy and indifferent!
Some people assume that priests go on holiday all the time, but in reality we are entitled to an entire month of leave each year, which, unlike most professions, does not accrue if not taken! The upside of it not accruing, is that the priest is forced to take time off each year to recharge and “fill up the tank” before returning to parish duties.
To this end, I will be on leave this year from Wednesday, 8 October until Saturday, 8 November. I’m blessed to be able to travel abroad to Europe, where I will most certainly be praying for you all.
With every good wish and blessing for the school holidays and the beginning of our final term of 2025.
God bless you all, dear brothers and sisters.
Fr Roberto Keryakos
Assistant Priest – St Mary’s Cathedral
Chaplain – St Mary’s Cathedral College


From the Assistant Principal: Mission

Cambodia Immersion
Set to begin on 27 September, in this Jubilee Year of Hope, is our inaugural St Mary’s Cathedral College Immersion to Cambodia. Far more than just a trip away, this is a great opportunity for our eleven students to live their Catholic faith and practice social justice. The trip offers a unique blend of cultural, historical, and community-focused experiences, structured around the core principles of Catholic Social Teaching. The initial days will be spent in Phnom Penh, where participants will confront the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge. This serves as a powerful and somber reminder of the need to confront systemic injustices. Beyond the historical reflection, the itinerary includes a visit to the vibrant Boeung Trabek Market where students will have to apply their newly learnt language and cultural skills to buy their dinner that they will cook and share with genocide survivor Mrs. Sokhany who will teach us what it means to find love and joy for others after going through such an experience. This is a journey of solidarity, where "loving our neighbour" is a tangible action of walking alongside those who have endured immense suffering and who continue to rebuild their lives.
The heart of the trip lies in the four-day visit to St. Francis General School, embodying the principle of the Common Good and the dignity of work and participation. This period is dedicated to deep cultural exchange and hands-on activities, where our students will be fully integrated into the school community. They will attend a welcoming ceremony, help teach a class, learn the graceful movements of Khmer traditional dance, and participate in communal cooking sessions. It is in these moments of shared life—from the joy of a traditional dance to the simple act of cooking a meal together—that we will be invited to "find God in all things," as taught by St. Ignatius of Loyola. We will be called to contribute to the flourishing of the entire community, and come to understand that God is present not only in grand, sacred spaces but also in these humble, everyday interactions with a people of remarkable resilience and faith.
The final leg of the journey transitions to Siem Reap, the gateway to the ancient world of the Khmer Empire. The visits to the War Museum and the Landmine Museum will reveal the ongoing need for peacebuilding and care for creation. We will finish our time in Cambodia with a tour of the world-renowned Angkor Wat, including the breathtaking sunrise viewing. This act of pilgrimage, especially at dawn, provides a moment for contemplation and prayer, grounding the entire experience in a deep appreciation of the beauty of God’s creation. The trip will conclude with a return flight on 7 October, leaving participants with lasting memories of a country of both resilience and extraordinary beauty, guided by the belief that God's grace is at work in every encounter and every human story.
Thomas Hunter, Assistant Principal: Mission


From the Family Educator

After a full Term 3, filled with learning, growth and shared moments we now turn toward the holiday break. I encourage all families to take this opportunity to rest, rest and reconnect. In a world where sadness and the pressures of daily life can sometimes feel overwhelming, let us focus on what we can control: loving our children, being gentle on ourselves, and caring for one another. And as we do, may we find quiet strength in Christ’s presence, the gentle guidance of Mary who walks with us always and knowing that in our SMCC community, we have each other. Now let’s take a moment to celebrate some joy filled events from across our school…
Celebrating Fr Roberto’s 5 Year Ordination Anniversary
Last week, we marked a joyful milestone - Fr Roberto’s 5 Year Ordination Anniversary! Here is a short and joy filled video featuring our students celebrating the gift of vocation and the joy that comes from serving others with love.
United in Joyful Prayer - Please send in your intentions
Each Friday we gather to pray the Rosary. I invite parents to continue sharing their prayer intentions knowing that each intention is held with care and prayed with love. These moments remind us that prayer is not just a quiet act but a joyful celebration of our shared journey and powerful way to support one another. Send in your prayers here.
Knit a Square, Share Some Warmth
Our student knitting club is going strong, and the students have begun creating squares for a special blanket that will be donated to those experiencing homelessness. We’d love for parents to join in too! If you’d like to contribute, please knit a 25 x 25 cm square and send it to the school office.


Honouring our Year 12 Graduates (and their parents!)
As our Year 12 students step into life beyond school, we pause to honour not only their achievements but also the journey their families have walked alongside them. This season is filled with mixed emotions: pride and joy for how far our children have come and accomplished, and a quiet ache as you watch them step into the world beginning to chart their own course. You have been there through every step - the highs, the lows and everything in between. Now, as they stand on the threshold of new adventures, your love and support remain their greatest foundation.
We celebrate you, the parents and caregivers for your unwavering presence, your quiet sacrifices and countless moments of encouragement you have poured into these young men. As they take their next steps, may you find peace in knowing that your influence endures and your role, though changing, remains deeply significant. You are part of every step they take, every dream they chase and every value they carry forward. Thank you for walking this journey with them, with grace, courage and unwavering love.
Angela Mills, Family Educator
From the Assistant Principal: Senior School
Celebrating the Class of 2025: Year 12 Graduation Events
This week, the St Mary’s Cathedral College community came together to celebrate the remarkable journey of the Class of 2025 in a series of memorable Year 12 Graduation events.
The festivities began with a special Graduation Breakfast early on Monday morning in the Chapter Hall, where students gathered with the Year 12 Pastoral and College Leadership Team to share a meal, reflecting on the year and expressing gratitude to the staff who have guided them. Each student was presented with a symbolic signet ring by the college as a memento of their graduation, marking this significant milestone. A light-hearted moment followed, with humorous awards adding a joyful touch to the morning.
In a gesture of appreciation, Year 12 students hosted a Morning Tea for the College teaching and support staff, acknowledging the dedication and support they received throughout their schooling years. This was a wonderful opportunity for students to show their gratitude for the countless hours of work and care from the college's teaching and support staff. All staff were presented with an individual thank you card from the students.
The entire college community then gathered for a Farewell Assembly, where students and staff reminisced about the memories the Class of 2025 has created since their journey began in 2020. The assembly featured captivating music performances, highlighting the immense talent within this graduating class. The incoming school captain bid farewell to the students on behalf of the student body, marking a poignant and proud moment for all.
On Tuesday, the graduates came together for their Graduation Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral, where they received their official graduation certificates. The mass ended with a powerful and unifying rendition of the College Hymn, filling the cathedral with emotion and pride.
To cap off the celebrations, students, families, and friends gathered at Doltone House Jones Bay Wharf for the Valedictory Awards Dinner and Formal. This was a night to remember, as Academic Excellence Awards and College Special Awards were presented, celebrating the outstanding achievements of the graduates. The evening concluded with a night of dancing and celebration, as students, families, and friends enjoyed the culmination of 13 years of schooling.
The Year 12 Graduation events truly showcased the strength, talent, and spirit of the Class of 2025. We wish them all the very best for the future as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
The boys are now focusing on their Stuvac period as they prepare for the important HSC examinations. We wish them well for this important next phase of the year.
Looking ahead to Term 4
As the term comes to a close, we reflect on what has been another busy and rewarding few months for our students. Across all year levels, our students have worked diligently, participating in a wide range of academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities. Their dedication and enthusiasm have been evident in the many accomplishments achieved this term, from academic success to sporting and creative arts achievements.
We now look ahead to Term 4, a crucial time for our students as they complete their final assessments for the academic year. This term will be an opportunity for students to showcase the hard work and perseverance they’ve demonstrated throughout the year. It will also be a time of celebration as we acknowledge and honour their achievements for 2025.
We encourage all students to stay focused, make the most of the support available, and finish the year on a high. We look forward to celebrating their successes together in the upcoming term.
Chris Maoudis, Assistant Principal: Senior School
From the Assistant Principal: Middle School
College Chronicle: Celebrating Excellence at St Mary's! 🌟
It's been an extraordinary term at St Mary's Cathedral College, filled with outstanding achievements across all facets of college life. We are incredibly proud to highlight the dedication, talent, and spirit shown by our students in learning, sport, the creative arts, character development, and general wellbeing.
Our students have once again excelled academically, demonstrating their commitment to lifelong learning and scholarship. The results from the recent assessment period reflect significant growth.
The roar of the crowd has been a testament to the passion and success of our student athletes. More than just the wins, we celebrate the sportsmanship and perseverance demonstrated - qualities that are just as vital as any medal.
Our students continue to find powerful voice through music, drama, and visual arts, enriching the cultural fabric of the college.
Character development remains central to our mission. Students have demonstrated the empathy, leadership, and social responsibility we strive to instill and has also fostered a culture of mutual respect and support, helping every student feel connected and valued.
We look forward to an even more successful term ahead and encourage all members of the St Mary's community to have a restful and safe break.
Be engaged, Be Kind and Be the best you can be every day.
David Timillero, Assistant Principal: Middle School
From the Assistant Principal: Junior School
What a fantastic Term 3 it has been for our students! It's amazing to see how much our young learners have grown and explored through a variety of engaging events and hands-on learning experiences. The second half of the term has been particularly busy, filled with special events like Book Week, Grandparents Day, the K-2 NRL Gala Day and our R U OK? Day activities. We also had some incredible excursions, with our students visiting the Australian Museum, Aquarium and the Zoo. Here is a look at what the Junior School has been up to…
Kindergarten: From Ideas to Informative Texts
This term, our Kindergarten students have been on a fantastic writing journey. They've been learning to write informative texts, a skill that's allowed them to gather facts, organise their thoughts and confidently teach their peers something new. It's been wonderful to watch our Kindergarten students grow as knowledgeable little authors!






Stage 1: Wild Encounters at Wildlife World and Sea Life Aquarium
Our Stage 1 students had an incredible day exploring living things at WildLife Sydney Zoo and SeaLife Sydney Aquarium on Tuesday, 16 September.
The day began at the WildLife Zoo, where the students were fascinated by some of Australia's most unique and endangered creatures. They got a chance to discover magnificent Tasmanian Devils, sleeping koalas, a friendly crocodile and a group of adorable bilbies.
Next door, the adventure continued at the Sea Life Aquarium. Students had a great time comparing the needs of various living creatures, discovering how their homes and the surrounding plants are essential for their survival.
The highlight of the day was the Penguin Expedition boat ride. The students took a continuous raft ride through a rugged sub-Antarctic environment, getting an up-close and personal view of a spectacular colony of King and Gentoo Penguins.
It was wonderful to see our students so engaged and excited about Australia’s fascinating wildlife and marine life.

Year 3: Exploring the Parts of the Mass
In Religion, Year Three has been exploring the parts of the Mass. They began learning about the Introductory Rites and have now moved on to the Liturgy of the Word.
To enrich their understanding, Father Roberto led the class in a special session. He helped the students identify the key parts of the Mass and explained the meaning behind different actions and significant symbols for each stage. The students had a fantastic opportunity to ask questions, which helped them really deepen their understanding.
To further their learning, the class along with Mrs. Mills, Mrs. Esposito and Father Roberto visited the Lady Chapel within the Cathedral. Father Roberto showed the students the special vessels used in the Liturgy of the Eucharist, bringing their classroom learning to life in a beautiful and memorable way.

Year 4: Digging into Science and History at the Australian Museum
Year 4 students visited the Australian Museum recently, engaging in hands-on science activities to explore rocks and minerals and learning about First Nations perspectives on caring for sea environments. Year 4 loved walking across the city and being involved in these programs. We look forward to more opportunities like this soon.


Chess Club
Each Thursday at recess, registered students attend Chess Club in the Library. Run by the Sydney Academy of Chess, the students engage in lessons and chess related activities. Congratulations to Reuben (Year 2), Matteo (Year 1) and David (Year 4) who received medals for being the top 3 point scorers, in their group, this term!

What a wonderful way to wrap up Term 3! These enriching experiences inside and outside the classroom have provided our students with memorable opportunities to deepen their learning and engage with the world around them. We can't wait to see what next term brings!
Suzanne Georgiou, Assistant Principal: Junior School
From the Assistant Principal: Liberal Arts
This term, our Phronesis Program placed a strong focus on wellbeing, community, and essential life skills nurturing the whole child across every stage of learning.
In the Junior School, students explored emotional intelligence and inclusion, learning how empathy and kindness shape positive relationships. The Middle School deepened their understanding of communication and impact, with a particular emphasis on active listening and respectful dialogue. Meanwhile, the Senior School engaged in a strategically designed program that supported both academic success and mental resilience, equipping students with tools to thrive in and beyond the classroom.
Our entire school community embraced the spirit of unity and support through meaningful whole-school events. In Week 2, NAIDOC Week celebrations fostered a deeper connection to culture and history across all year levels. Later in Week 8, students, staff, and teachers came together to observe R U OK? Day, reinforcing the importance of checking in, listening well, and supporting one another’s mental health and wellbeing.
Together, these experiences continue to shape a culture of wisdom, care, and courageous action hallmarks of our commitment to Phronesis.
SMCC teachers have continued to elevate learning by integrating excursions and guest speakers that bring curriculum to life and deepen student engagement. Year 5 explored colonial history firsthand at Hyde Park Barracks, while Year 4 immersed themselves in natural sciences and cultural heritage during their visit to the Australian Museum. In the Middle School, Year 7 students participated in a dynamic Science Incursion, and Year 9 were inspired by the energetic and educational Surfing Scientists, who blended physics with fun. Meanwhile, Year 10 Commerce students showcased entrepreneurial flair during Market Day, applying economic principles in a vibrant, hands-on setting. These experiences not only enriched classroom learning but also fostered curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking across all stages.
Belinda VanderGert, Assistant Principal: Liberal Arts
From the Leader of Curriculum & Assessment
Year 12 HSC Preparation
The College would like to wish the class of 2025 all the best as they prepare for their HSC Examinations.
HSC written exams start on Thursday, 16 October 2025. Students are expected to know the Rules and Processes, so please encourage your son to look closely at the information on this page:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/nesa/hsc/rules-and-procedures/2025-guide
Your son can access his personal HSC timetable via his Students Online Account.
He should arrive at school at least 30 minutes before the start of each exam. Although he can wear his school jersey, he should continue following the SMCC dress standards and behaviour expectations.
Please encourage your son to attend the upcoming holiday workshops held at school and the online workshops run by Sydney Catholic Schools.
Year 12 HSC and Compass
Students will lose access to Compass at the end of the HSC examination period, so please encourage your son to download their past reports before access is lost.
Year 11 Exam Block
Year 11 finished their Preliminary Examinations last week. Parents will receive a full school report at the end of week two of Term Four. This report will be published on Compass.
Year 7-10 Progress Reports
Parents of Years 7-10 received progress reports this week, published on Compass. If you have difficulty accessing the Parent Portal, please get in touch with student services at the College for assistance. The main objective of these reports is to provide diagnostic information on behaviour, participation, organisation and homework. Consequently, this will allow students and their parents to use this report to assess and discuss areas of strength and weakness to develop strategies to move forward for the remainder of the semester.
Anne Ung, Leader of Curriculum & Assessment
From the Leader of Pathways & Partnerships
Code Camp
St Mary’s Cathedral College will be offering Code Camp as an optional activity after school next term.
After-School Code Camp allows kids to hone their coding skills and keep practising through weekly sessions over the term. Each week students will choose the features they want to build, and advance their problem-solving skills to build these features using code. They will take ownership over their projects and collaborate with their peers to make awesome apps!
- Program: Little Coders
- Years/Grades: Years K-2
- Day(s): Wednesdays
- Times: 3:15pm - 4:30pm
- Start Date: Wednesday, 22 October 2025
- Devices: School Providing (iPads)
- Program: Coding
- Years/Grades: Years 2-6
- Day(s): Wednesdays
- Times: 3:25pm - 4:40pm
- Start Date: Wednesday, 22 October 2025
- Devices: School Providing (iPads)
- Program: Coding 3D
- Years/Grades: Years 7-9
- Day(s): Wednesdays
- Times: 3:25pm - 4:40pm
- Start Date: Wednesday, 22 October 2025
- Devices: School is a BYOD school for later years, Laptops (MacBooks and Windows)
Here is your booking link to enrolments. Please include this Discount Code SCHOOL15 in your communications, for parents to save $15 each booking.
Year 12 - UAC Applications
A reminder that the early bird fee deadline closes soon.
To avoid higher processing charges, complete, pay and submit your application by 11.59pm on 30 September 2025.
Careers Website - Noticeboard
A reminder that the school’s careers noticeboard is updated every Thursday morning and can be found here. It contains information and opportunities pertaining to universities, TAFE, private colleges and a range of other institutions.
Ashley Norman, Leader of Pathways & Partnerships
From the Leader of Wellbeing
R U Thriving?
Recently the College focused on the R U OK? Campaign, acknowledging the importance of a conversation and calling our community to look out for one another through acts of kindness and respect for all. These conversations led to discussions on what makes us happy and where goodness can be found - an excellent consideration to carry through into Term 4. Interestingly, as I considered how the College might explore this idea I came across an article by Dan Hardie, teen counsellor and founder of My Strengths. Post R U OK? Day, Hardie strongly supports asking if someone is okay, however, he says ‘if that’s the only question we are asking, we are missing half the picture’.
What if we asked a different question?
Instead of only asking "Are you okay?", Hardie proposes we also ask, "Are you thriving?". He believes this shift in focus would encourage people to see not only their struggles but also their strengths. A culture that asks questions like "What are your natural talents and abilities?" or "What energizes you and brings you to life?" would focus on potential rather than just problems. This would help people, particularly the young, focus on flourishing rather than just surviving.
So, what next?
What would happen if schools, families and communities gathered around questions like these:
- What are your natural inborn talents, abilities and strengths?
- Where are you at your best?
- What energises you and brings you to life?
- How do you activate your strengths and make a difference to others?
- What does it look like when you are flourishing?
As we approach the holidays, I encourage you to have a conversation with your daughters and sons and ask ‘Are you Thriving?’ with a focus on the questions identified by Dan Hardie. Rather than only spotlighting problems, we hope this creates a culture that shines a light on potential.
Wishing you all a happy and relaxed holiday.
Kathleen McGrath, Leader of Learning
From Science

Year 9 Science Incursion - Surfing Scientist
On Tuesday, 16 September, Year 9 students swapped their usual classroom for a front‑row seat to science in action, thanks to the Surfing Scientist, Ruben Meerman. With lasers slicing through the air and liquid nitrogen sending particles into a frosty frenzy, the room buzzed with curiosity and “whoa!” moments. The show tied perfectly into their “Lights, Camera, Action!” unit, turning theory into spectacular reality. A huge thanks to Ruben for bringing the wow‑factor, and to the staff who helped make the day run as smoothly as a perfectly‑surfable wave.
Adrian Claydon, Instructional Leader of Learning: Science 9-12




From HSIE
Real-World Learning in Action: Market Day 2025
The College Quadrangle was buzzing with energy, creativity and entrepreneurial flair as our Year 10 Commerce students brought their business dreams to life for Market Day 2025!
From Lebanese kebabs and bubble tea to churros, nachos, Krispy Kremes and ice cream sandwiches — the stalls were a hit, with most selling out!!
This much-anticipated event is the highlight of the Commerce course for our budding business owners. Students worked in teams to develop a business plan, calculate costs, set prices, and aim for profit, all while learning the real-world challenges of running a business. It’s more than just fun, it’s a hands-on lesson in marketing, finance, teamwork and customer service, all wrapped in our liberal arts approach to learning.
A huge congratulations to all our student entrepreneurs for their hard work and creativity, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the day. Together, we raised over $2500 for charity!
Ashley Pereira, Instructional Leader of Learning: HSIE 9-12



























From CAPA
Art, Drama, TAS and Music Annual Showcase
On Wednesday, 3 September St Mary’s Cathedral College came alive with creativity at our Annual Art, Drama, TAS and Music Showcase. From bold Year 12 Visual Arts bodies of work featuring powerful sculptural pieces of copper, concrete and steel, to inspiring Drama performances and original scripts, the evening highlighted the depth of talent across our senior students. TAS displays impressed with industry-level projects in timber, graphics and multimedia, while the Year 12 HSC Music Recital filled Chapter Hall with extraordinary performances, from Renaissance song to contemporary guitar mastery. A true celebration of imagination, skill and passion across the Creative and Performing Arts! Details below on each individual faculty.
Creative Arts
Year 12 Visual Arts - Body of Works
This year’s HSC Visual Arts exhibition was a testament to the creative courage and conceptual depth of the students. The sculptural works were the undeniable highlight. From seemingly delicate copper wire weavings to concrete and metal hybrids, each piece revealed a sophisticated understanding of materiality and form.
Students explored themes ranging from identity and transformation to environmental decay and resilience, often using unconventional combinations of industrial and organic materials. The tactile quality of these works; twisted mesh, rusted steel, dried bones and copper wire, spoke to conceptual clarity and considered material practice.
The exhibition also featured impressive photography, painting, drawing, printmaking and graphic design posters by Middle School (5-8) and Senior School (9-12) students. They demonstrated not only technical skill and refinement but also a mature engagement with contemporary issues and personal narratives.
The students’ ability to transform raw materials into resonant statements was nothing short of remarkable.
Drama
Year 12 Individual Projects & Group Performance
Throughout their studies, our Year 12 St Mary’s Cathedral College Drama students have had the opportunity to develop their skills across performing, directing and writing. Each student has developed an Individual Project in an area of interest, which has allowed them to hone their skills and develop their ideas in order to create evocative performances and playscripts. Additionally, the cohort has worked together to devise an original Group Performance.
Our Year 12 students were able to demonstrate, through both performances and staged readings of their scripts, the wonderful evolution of their skills across their Stage 6 studies and Major Works, receiving well-earned rounds of appraise and cheers from their audience.
TAS
On display were from students that studied the Industrial Technology Timber, Graphics and Multimedia courses. Offering the 3 focus areas allows students to use their own talents to flourish. What they achieved is nothing short of remarkable!
Throughout the course students are given the opportunity to explore industry standard technologies and materials to a level of mastery. Each project vastly different from each other showcases the students' individual abilities and creativity.
Encompassing advanced techniques students produced projects to an exceptional quality. The projects took on many forms, furniture, decorative items, video, animation, CAD, Renderings and 3D printing and modelling.
MUSIC
At the Year 12 HSC Music Recital Evening, students presented their Music 1 and Music 2 HSC programs to a warm and receptive audience in the beautifully appointed Chapter Hall. Luke Pitts, a seasoned Scholar in the St Mary's Cathedral Choir, sang a delightfully mixed Renaissance & Contemporary program including Flow My Tears, Triumph with Pleasant Melody, and Lady of Grace. His program clearly exemplified the Liberal Arts philosophy underpinning the College. Alex Clark, a budding guitarist with future sights firmly planted in becoming a professional performer, tantalized the audience with his HSC program comprising Parisienne Walkways, The Stumble, Sultan's of Swing.
We wish the music class of 2025 the very best in the HSC performance examinations and their future musical endeavors.





















Music News
As we approach the end of Term 3, we acknowledge the musical achievements of students in the Keyboard Festival and Year 12 Music Showcase concerts.
Keyboard Festival Concert - 29 August, 5pm, Chapter Hall
On Friday evening, the spotlight was on our keyboard students at SMCC playing in the Keyboard Festival concert. We were entertained by an eclectic array of performances from twenty-two pianists and organists in the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools who showcased their talents. It was a wonderful celebration of many hours of practice, patience, resilience, dedication and passion with students of all abilities doing themselves proud. Thank you to our piano and organ tutors for developing our students’ abilities and talents.

Year 12 Music Showcase - 3 September, 5pm, Chapter Hall
At the Year 12 HSC Music Recital Evening, students presented their Music 1 and Music 2 HSC programs to a warm and receptive audience in the beautifully appointed Chapter Hall. Luke Pitts, a seasoned Scholar in the St Mary's Cathedral Choir, sang a delightfully mixed Renaissance & Contemporary program including Flow My Tears, Triumph with Pleasant Melody, and Lady of Grace. His program clearly exemplified the Liberal Arts philosophy underpinning the College. Alex Clark, a budding guitarist with future sights firmly planted in becoming a professional performer, tantalised the audience with his HSC program comprising Parisienne Walkways, The Stumble, Sultan's of Swing. We wish the Music Class of 2025 the very best in the remainder of their HSC examinations and their future musical endeavours.


Since the completion of our current premises and facilities back in 1992, almost 34 years ago, the Music wing has seen very little refurbishments or updating of facilities. This is well overdue and we have well and truly outgrown our present facilities. As the bulk of music learning activities will continue to take place on the St Mary’s Road campus from 2026, our current facilities require attention.
Following a thorough design consultation process, an architectural refurbishment project has been approved by Sydney Catholic Schools. Inspired by the Botanical Gardens and St Mary’s Cathedral, the new layout will include three dedicated music classrooms, rehearsal and recording spaces. It will also include a shared Drama and Music space, as well as teaching studios and practice rooms. This will provide significant improvements to music teaching and learning spaces, and student engagement.
What will this mean for music activities from November 2025 to end-of-year?
This will mean that
- all music tuition will cease as of Friday, 7 November (except for piano tuition which will conclude on Thursday, 6 November).
- Ensembles will run at the same times but with some changed venues.
- Chorister and Scholar vocal and piano lessons will continue at the Song School and other scheduled locations.
The College appreciates your support and understanding as we undertake this significant project. These are exciting developments for music staff and students alike and we look forward to unveiling the updated, refreshed, redesigned, contemporary and inspiring music learning spaces in 2026. Any enquiries regarding the tuition or ensembles programs at SMCC during the building program should be directed to smccsydney-music@syd.catholic.edu.au in the first instance.
Hall of Fame
A hearty congratulations goes to Jaclyn Liu from Year 6 who achieved 1st place in the Classical Vocal Solo Primary Open and 2nd place in the Contemporary Vocal Solo (10 years) sections of the Sydney Catholic Schools Eisteddfod. Jaclyn is one of our highly esteemed choristers in the Cathedral Choir and also learns violin and piano. Great work Jaclyn!
Best wishes and happy music making in Term 4!
Dr Stefanovych Roberts, Acting Leader of Music

Music e-form links
Information regarding the instrumental and ensemble programs at SMCC is available in the e-forms links below:
Instrumental Music Tuition Form
Music Ensemble Application Form
Musical Instrument Loan Agreement
Music Locker Hire Form
Change of Enrolment Form
From Diverse Learning
UNSW Gifted and Talented Holiday Programs
GERRIC January 2026 Programs – Registrations Open Soon!
Registrations for the January 2026 GERRIC programs open on 29 September 2025 and will close in late November. These programs are very popular and tend to book out quickly, so early registration is highly recommended.
GERRIC programs are designed for students in Years 3–10, and applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria
🔗 General Information & Eligibility: GERRIC 2026
🗓️ Program Dates & Times
All sessions run daily from 9:00am to 3:00pm.
- Junior Program (Years 3–6): Wednesday 14 January – Friday 16 January
- Senior Program (Years 7–10): Tuesday 20 January – Thursday 22 January
🔍 Explore the January Programs: January Programs
For further details, please visit the GERRIC website or speak with Mrs Schwedes directly.
Veronica Schwedes, Gifted and Talented Teacher
Sports News
A Champion Performance
We are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding performance of Albert Job, who represented our school with distinction at the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges (NSWCCC) Athletics Championships held at Sydney Olympic Park (Homebush) on Monday, 15 September.
Albert competed against the best Catholic school athletes in the state and delivered a spectacular day of sprinting, bringing home a gold and a bronze medal. Albert lined up for the Boys 13 Years 100m final and blew the competition away, crossing the line first to be crowned the NSWCCC Champion.
Not content with just one event, Albert backed up his performance in the Boys 13 Years 200m, demonstrating fantastic stamina and grit to secure a brilliant third place finish.
Congratulations to Albert on his sensational results! His commitment and sportsmanship are an inspiration to all our student athletes. We wish him the very best as he prepares for his next challenge.
Samuel Hammersley, Acting Instructional Leader Co-curricular/Sport
Stage 2 OzTag Gala Day
The Stage 2 OzTag Gala Day was a fantastic success at Lane Cove on Monday, 1 September 2025. It was wonderful to see everyone enjoying the games and representing St. Mary's Cathedral College with pride. A massive thank you goes to our Year 6 student referees, Eimear Flannery, Pierson Fragias, Bhavini Parshottam and Dimitri Reskakis, who helped the day run smoothly. We also extend thanks to the teachers and staff at Sydney Catholic Schools for their support, organisation and encouragement on the day!
Beverley Lynch, PDHPE Teacher / K-6 Sports Co-Ordinator


Primary Athletics
Congratulations to Arabella Soden-Smith in Year 6 who has been selected to represent Sydney Catholic Schools at the MacKillop Athletics Trials held on Wednesday, 24 September 2025 at Sydney Olympic Park. Arabella will compete in two events, the 100m and 200m dash. Arabella secured qualification with impressive times of 14.40 in the 100m and 29.23 in the 200m. A massive thank you to Arabella's family and teachers for their ongoing support.
K-2 Tag Gala Day 2025
Students in Kindergarten and Stage 1 were treated to a fun-filled day on Thursday, 18 September when the National Rugby League Ltd. team conducted a skills session with students at the Domain Sports Fields. Students had a fantastic time running, laughing and learning new skills. A massive thanks to Michael and his team from the NRL, the staff at the Botanical Gardens, parents / carers and our wonderful teachers for their amazing support at this event.
Beverley Lynch, PDHPE Teacher / K-6 Sports Co-Ordinator






From the Community

Upcoming Dates
DATE | EVENT |
Monday, 13 October | Staff Professional Learning Day (Pupil Free Day) |
Tuesday, 14 October | Term 4 commences for students (K-11) |
Wednesday, 15 October | Prefect Investiture Mass and Morning Tea |
Thursday, 16 October - Monday,10 November | Year 12 HSC Exams |
Monday, 20 October - Wednesday, 22 October | Year 9 Camp |
Monday, 10 November -Friday, 14 November | Senior Retreat (Compulsory for Year 11 students) |
Monday, 17 November | Year 7 2026 Parent Information Evening |
Tuesday, 18 November | Year 7 2026 Orientation day and Allwell Testing |
Friday, 21 November | Kindergarten 2026 Orientation Day 1 & Parent Information Session |
Friday, 5 December | Kindergarten 2026 Orientation Day 2 - Teddy Bear Picnic |
Monday, 8 December | St Mary’s Cathedral College End of Year Mass |
Tuesday, 9 December | Junior School Christmas Concert |
Friday, 12 December | K-10 Parent/Teacher Interviews |
Monday, 15 December | K-10 Parent/Teacher Interviews (AM) |