St Mary's Cathedral College Newsletter: Term 1, Week 5

From the College Principal

Dear Parents and Carers, 

Welcome to what is going to be an exciting year. 2024 marks a significant milestone in the history of St Mary’s Cathedral College as we celebrate our Bicentenary. We have certainly had a busy but truly rewarding start to the year. There is much to celebrate and we look forward to sharing the story of St Mary’s past, present and future with you as the year unfolds.

BICENTENARY
A Catholic school has been a constant presence on the College’s current site since 1824. In many ways this College represents the rich tapestry of educational excellence that has been characteristic of Catholic Education in Australia. For 200 years stories of faith, wisdom and hope have been told on these grounds. Whilst the charisms have changed over time, the centrality of the cathedral has been a constant. Thousands of young men and young women have had the privilege of walking through the Cathedral doors to encounter Christ. In 2024, like 1824, the students of St Mary’s Cathedral College will continue the journey of faith and learning, setting strong foundations for a future filled with hope.

Our theme for the Bicentennial year has appropriately come from our senior students and speaks to the significance of Catholic Education at St Mary’s. ‘Walking with Christ for 200 years, serving with love forever.’ We look forward to sharing this exciting journey with you. Please keep up to date with the latest events on our bicentennial website.

Bicentenary Website Link: https://smccsydney.syd.catholic.edu.au/bicentenary

OPENING MASS
We opened the Bicentennial Year with a beautiful Opening Mass celebrated by his Grace, Archbishop Anthony Fisher. This was a significant event as we came together to pray for God’s blessing and celebrate 200 years of educational excellence on this site. It was an honour to acknowledge and thank the charisms of the religious congregations present with us on the day who represented the light of faith that was carried at the College for the past 200 years.  I would like to thank Brother Paul Conn, representing the Christian Brothers, Sister Margaret Guy, representing the Sisters of Charity,  Br Peter Rodney representing the Marist Brothers and Fr David Orr, representing the Benedictines. 

The Archbishop spoke of the significance of this event and shared with us the story of education here at St Mary’s.
I share some of his inspirational words below

We were also blessed to have a number of our special guests join us for a special morning tea in Chapter Hall.

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HIGH ACHIEVERS ASSEMBLY 
We celebrated our High Achievers at our assembly and forum early in the term. These students certainly lived out the words of their theme, lead with courage, illuminated by faith; be a light for the ages. Their outstanding results act as a light of encouragement and inspiration for all at the assembly  As a cohort they achieved some outstanding HSC results. There were 35 Distinguished achievers, students who received at least one subject with a mark of over 90, 1 All Rounder - students who achieved a band 6 in 5 or more courses,  3 students were named top achievers, receiving a ranking in the state for their subject, 8 students placed First in the Archdiocese for their courses and 17 students achieved an ATAR over 90.   I extend our congratulations once again to all our high achievers, and may your journeys ahead be filled with even greater successes. 

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REBRAND
As the College enters a new era our visual identity is undertaking a dynamic refresh that reflects our historic past whilst embracing our future as a Kindergarten to Year 12 coeducational, dual campus College. 

The rebranding is more than just a visual transformation, it is a celebration of our legacy and our enduring connection to St Mary’s Cathedral, the mother church of Australia. 

The video below tells this story. We hope you like it.

Video Link: HERE

PARLIAMENT LAUNCH & SPECIAL GUEST - FULL ARTICLE FROM VANB OR MASM
This term we launched a significant leadership initiative which saw our Student Representative Council (SRC) become a Student Parliament. This initiative continues to recognise the importance of student voice, choice and agency. The establishment of a Student Parliament represents an opportunity for our students  to make a difference; a difference in this College, in your communities, and the world. I congratulate the leaders who were elected as student leaders this year and  encourage them to continue the legacy of success that learning at this very special school can bring. 

We were very fortunate to have with us alumnus from the class of 1980 the Hon Anthony Albanese - Prime Minister of Australia to launch our Parliament. He spoke to the entire student body and received a very warm welcome from an excited student body. His example acts as a reminder to all our students of the possibilities afforded to them when they embrace the opportunities they are given to them at St Mary’s.

We were also very grateful to  have his Grace the Archbishop Anthony Fisher, The Hon Tanya Plibersek,  Minister for the Environment and Water, and former St Mary’s parent, as well as, Mr Tony Farley Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools join students in a Q&A session. The students were given words of advice from these experienced and inspirational leaders about how to lead with integrity and act for the common good. 

The Prime Minister ended his time with the students in the hall with a whole school selfie. The student reaction to his visit speaks to the significance of his visit. This was certainly a day to remember!

Video Link: HERE

Kerrie McDiarmid, College Principal

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From the Dean of Senior School

Dear Parents, Carers and Students 

In our 200th year I wanted to take this opportunity to welcome everyone back to St Mary’s Cathedral College. As we embark on another exciting academic journey, it is with great joy and enthusiasm that we kick off the new school year. With fresh goals, renewed spirits, and a commitment to excellence, we're poised for greatness in the coming year. 

Our school year began on a momentous note with the celebration of the bicentenary of St. Mary's Cathedral College. The opening school mass was a deeply meaningful occasion, where we honoured the rich history and legacy of our institution. It was most pleasing to see our students engage most fervently in the singing of hymns. We were blessed to have representatives from all four charisms that have at one time or another led this great school community.  It was a time to reflect on our past achievements, celebrate our present successes, and look forward to a future filled with promise and potential.

Thank you to all the parents and students who attended our recent information and curriculum evenings. Your active participation and engagement are crucial to the success of our educational programs. These evenings provided valuable insights into our curriculum and assessment program, initiatives for the year, and support services, ensuring that together, we can create the best possible learning environment for our students.

We have also announced extended hours for study in the college library, available every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 3 pm to 6 pm. This initiative is aimed at providing students in Years 9-12 with a dedicated space for focused study and academic enrichment outside of regular school hours. We encourage all eligible students to take advantage of this valuable resource to enhance their learning and academic performance.

In our continued commitment to supporting student success, we're pleased to announce the expansion of our academic tutoring program. Now available for Year 11 and 12 students, this program offers personalized academic support and guidance to help students excel in their studies. Whether it's assistance with coursework, exam preparation, or study skills development, our alumni tutors are here to help students reach their full potential. I would encourage you to speak to your sons about booking into these tutoring sessions. 

Year 12 should be actively preparing for their upcoming assessment block. These mid-point assessments are a great barometer in gauging their progress thus far in their HSC year. We wish them the best of luck.

Term 1 has been extraordinarily busy, however, the students have settled exceptionally well and are rising to the high expectations that have been set. We look forward to the many events that lie ahead for our community. 

Chris Maoudis, Dean of Senior School

From the Dean of Middle School

It has been an extremely busy start to the year with our Middle School students making the most of their time at school in the early weeks of the school year. The boys were wonderful during our Opening Mass which, this year, doubled as the beginning of our Bicentenary celebrations. Their reverence at the Ash Wednesday Mass was noted and praised by
Fr Roberto. Their genuine enthusiasm and excitement during the Prime Minister’s visit  was a joy to witness. 

Year 7 have hit the ground running in 2024. They have particpated in a number of year based events that have engaged them in the spiritual and character development. They are looking forward to their camp as well as NAPLAN exams in the future.

MIDDLE SCHOOL STRATEGIES FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS
The middle school years can be exciting, as your child moves toward adulthood and enjoys new experiences. But they can also bring challenges, like finding ways to keep connected with your tween and helping him handle peer pressure. Here’s how to support your child and help him thrive. Below are some useful tips for transparent communication with your child:

Stay in the loop

• Reach out. Ask specific questions, like what he’s learning in history class or who won last night’s football game. You could also send texts or leave supportive notes for him. (“Good luck on your choir practice. I can’t wait to hear how it goes!”) 
• Make friends welcome. Social circles are important at this age. By encouraging your child to invite friends home or on family outings, you’ll show together. 
• Use transport time. Many parents find the car to be a great place for conversations with their kids. When you drive your middle schooler to piano practice or to get a haircut, make the most of it. If he’s quiet, try talking about your day or sharing family news to get the conversation started. 

Build self-esteem 

Middle graders can feel unsure of themselves from time to time. Help your tween develop a good self-image with strategies like these. 

• Encourage confidence-boosting hobbies. Noncompetitive activities provide a safe way for your child to try new things.
• Be there. Make your middle grader feel valued by attending events he cares about. For example, if he’s on the sound crew for the school play, go to opening night. If he loves horses, take him to a horse show. 
• Celebrate strengths. Everyone is better at some things than others. If your youngster puts himself down, challenge him to list at least five of his strong points. When he wants to improve at something (say, skateboarding), suggest that he set a goal and make a plan for achieving it, such as practicing 30 minutes three times a week

Manage stress 

More responsibilities at home and at school can cause your child to feel stressed sometimes. Try these suggestions for support. 

• Stick to routines. Knowing what to expect can make your youngster’s life more predictable and less stressful. Help him set up routines that work for your family and your son, such as having him do homework right after school or packing his lunch at night. 
• Pay attention to sources of anxiety. Does your tween have a tendency to put off big projects and then stress about them at the last minute? Remind him of this, and brainstorm ways to prevent it from happening again. For example, they should start work sooner and perhaps buddy up with a classmate to stay on track. Or if he’s irritable because he isn’t getting enough sleep, set an earlier bedtime. 
• Watch for bigger issues. Some stress is normal for middle graders. But symptoms that last more than two weeks may indicate a problem. If your child isolates himself from friends and activities, complains of headaches or stomachaches, or is often tired or sad, have him see his doctor. A professional can rule out physical causes and suggest ways to help if he has anxiety or depression. 

It has been humbling to see our middle school students come back to school with so much enthusiasm for learning. They are engaging so well with their teachers and each other, so I congratulate them on this fantastic start to the year.

Be Faithful. Be Kind. Be Engaged. 

David Timillero, Dean of Middle School

From the Dean of Mission

As we start the Bicentenary year of the College, we are reminded of all the great blessings that have been bestowed upon the College across its two hundred year history. We are part of a great legacy of learning and faith. While these have been expressed differently over the years, there remains one constant uniting these diverse pedagogies, styles and spiritualities – the Blessed Mother of God Mary, the College and Cathedral patroness. The scriptural portrait of Mary is one of great faith in the providence of God, and one that exemplifies how we are to live as members of a faith community (a Church). I am happy to share with you below some examples of how this has been occurring among our students already this year.

THE COLLEGE BICENTENARY THEME, BANNER AND SCRIPTURE
The College prefects are to be commended on their thoughtfulness and effort in relation to the College Bicentenary theme, banner and Scripture quote this year. The theme acknowledges that the history and future of the College is not simply a consequence of our own efforts, but a reflection of how we have been accompanied by Christ. It also demonstrates that we are a community for others and not simply one focused on what we can get. We are called to be of service. This is meaningfully expressed in the chosen Scripture quote of John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full”. May we also be there for each other so that as students, staff and parents/carers we may live life to the full. You will also notice the crest of the four religious orders at the bottom of the banner. Each of these orders ran the College across the last two hundred years. From left to right: the Christian Brothers (1911 - 2015); the Sisters of Charity   (1883 - 1967); The Marist Brothers (1883 - 1910); and the Benedictine Monks (1824 - 1882). Well done members of our College Prefecture! 

BICENTENARY/OPENING MASS
The celebration of the Eucharist (the Mass) is, "the source and summit of the Christian life" (Lumen Gentium, parra. 11). This is because we believe that Christ is truly present among us. It was important for us to have Archbishop Anthony Fisher as our celebrant for this occasion, to be joined also by parents and carers, alumni and members of the four religious orders who have led faith and learning on this site for the past two hundred years. One symbol of God’s presence among us, is the light of a candle. Used in both Judaism and Christianity for thousands of years, the light of a candle reminds us that God lights the way forward. Also, like the warmth of a flame, it symbolises how Christ keeps us alive when we would otherwise become “cold” and “frozen” (stagnate in our relationships with others). It was therefore deeply meaningful for us that the representatives from the College’s previous four religious orders, started our ceremony by bringing forward a candle to place under the statue of our College Patron – Our Lady (Mary) Help of Christians. May our community continue to walk in the light of Christ as exemplified by Mary. 
Photos Copyright Giovanni Portelli/The Catholic Weekly

NEW COLLEGE CHAPLAIN
We are privileged to welcome back to the College, now as a priest, our new College Chaplain Fr Roberto Keryakos. Fr Roberto graduated from St Mary's Cathedral College in 2008. 

He will be present at key College events, and every Friday at the College. He is looking forward to supporting us, and wants you to know he’s happy to get in touch with you. Please let the College know if you would like to meet with him. 

TRAINING CHOIR FOR BOYS AND GIRLS
A great opportunity for any friends or family you may know who have children in Years 1 - 3, and who would like to be involved with the Cathedral Choir - Australia's oldest musical institution. A Training Choir now exists and meets during school terms on Thursdays in the Cathedral Song School from 4:15pm to 5:30pm. Once students in this choir complete Year 3, they will be given the opportunity to audition to become Probationers in the Cathedral Choir.  The Cathedral Training Choir will sing for the 6pm Saturday Vigil Mass once a month in the Cathedral during school term time.

LENT 
Starting with the traditional Shrove Tuesday, the College got going with its fundraising for Caritas - Project Compassion. A Compass event has been shared according to a student's House, so the fundraising can continue as a bit of a competition and chance to earn some House points. This is an opportunity for us as a community to stand in solidarity with the world’s most vulnerable communities, to help end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity. Thank you for your support of this important initiative!

Giving to charity is something we are reminded to do as part of our Lenten observance. We were blessed to have the opportunity to come together at Mass with College Chaplain Fr Roberto, for the start of Lent – Ash Wednesday. 

SERVICE PROGRAMS AT SMCC
Every student at SMCC will be involved in a service program starting this year. Year 11 have already started with their visits to the Matthew Talbot Hostel with great enthusiasm. 

In Stage 2  it will take the form of examples and discussions on how students have lived a Virtue each week at school and away from school?

In Stage 3 Aged Care visits and weekly Peer to Peer led Youth Group at recess. 

In Stage 4  its the ‘Care for Our Common Home’ program and we look forward to seeing our Year 8 students start caring for the campus through a recycling program ahead of the Year 7s doing this in Terms 3 and 4.

In Stage 5 students also visit the Vincentian Aged Care home and also have the option of volunteering at Plunkett Street Public School teaching Scripture.

In Year 12 it will be an opt in program of their choosing to accommodate their studies. 

We encourage you to please discuss these important programs with your sons.  

We love hearing about how students are living the core values of the College in their own lives. Please encourage your sons to share with their homeroom teachers or with myself some of the ways they are being people for others. Peer to peer examples are some of the best ways learning (including service learning) occurs. In this edition of the newsletter, we want to acknowledge Tom Lord, Henry Vincent Hull, Diego and Santiago Honig and their families for making time to visit and provide some comfort and entertainment for residence at the Ronald Coleman Aged Care Home at Woollahra. Well done boys! 

YEAR 7 REFLECTION DAY
We held our Year 7 Reflection day on Friday of Week 4. The Theme was ‘What it Means to be Catholic’. This was an important day where students were given the opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of being a member of a Catholic school community, and developing a real sense of belonging. Special thanks to the Sydney Catholic Schools Mission and Identity Team for helping facilitate the day. Here are two recounts from Year 7 students, Vinson Nehme and Jason Salameh:

From the Dean of Liberal Arts

As we embrace the opportunities and challenges of the new academic year, 2024 brings with it two significant initiatives that promise to shape and enrich the experiences of our students at St Mary’s Cathedral College.

Phronesis Launch - Nurturing Character Education:

The official launch of Phronesis, our character education program designed to cultivate virtues that extend beyond the academic realm took place in week 2. Phronesis, a Greek term often translated as "practical wisdom," aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals who not only excel academically but also demonstrate strong character and ethical decision-making.

Through Phronesis, our students will engage in a series of interactive workshops, discussions, and activities throughout the year. These sessions will focus on essential virtues such as empathy, resilience, integrity, and leadership, empowering our students to navigate life's challenges with wisdom and compassion. We believe that a holistic education encompasses not only intellectual growth but also the development of character traits that contribute to the well-being of individuals and society.

We are confident that this program will inspire our students to become compassionate and principled leaders in their future endeavours.

Student Parliament Inauguration - Unveiling the Leaders of Tomorrow:

In a momentous occasion for St. Mary's Cathedral College, we proudly inaugurated our very first Student Parliament session this month. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as our student body witnessed the naming of our first Student Parliament group with the Prime Minister leading the charge.

The highlight of the opening session was an engaging Q & A with our Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese. Students had the unique opportunity to ask questions about the qualities that make a good leader. The insightful responses not only provided valuable leadership lessons but also inspired our students to reflect on their own potential as future leaders.

The Student Parliament will serve as a platform for our students to actively participate in decision-making processes, express their ideas, and contribute to the betterment of our school community. This initiative aligns with our commitment to nurturing leadership skills and fostering a sense of responsibility among our students.

As we embark on these innovative programs, we look forward to witnessing the positive impact they will have on our students' personal growth and development throughout the year.

Belinda VanderGert, Dean of Liberal Arts

From the Leader of Curriculum & Assessment

ASSESSMENT HANDBOOKS

Assessment Handbooks for Years 7-12 were shared via Compass in Week 3. This important document outlines the assessment procedures and the schedule of assessments for each course delivered at the College. Please note that this document, along with the assessment calendar, are available within the favourites (the star) tab of the Compass portal. Parents are encouraged to be familiar with it and discuss the contents with their sons.

7-10 TIMETABLE (2024) CLASS STRUCTURES

Boys in Years 7-10 are in different groups for different subjects. Some are streamed, but most are of mixed ability. In summary, the classes are organised as follows:

Year 7

• English, HSIE, RE and Science - Class 1 is a high potential class and classes 2 - 5 are mixed ability classes. 
• Mathematics classes 1 and 2 are high potential classes. Classes 3, 4 and 5 are mixed ability classes, and Class 6 is a supported group.
• Other remaining classes are mixed ability groups. 

Year 8

• English, HSIE, RE and Science - Class 1 is a high potential class and classes 2 - 5 are mixed ability classes. 
• TAS, PDHPE, Visual Arts and LOTE - Class 1 is a high potential class and classes 2 - 6 are mixed ability classes. 
• Mathematics classes 1 and 2 are high potential classes. Classes 3, 4 are mixed ability classes, and Class 5 is a supported group.

Year 9

• English, HSIE, RE and PDHPE - Class 1 is a high potential class and classes 2 - 4 are mixed ability classes. 
• Mathematics classes 1 - 3 are streamed, with Class 1 being high potential Extension Advanced.  Classes 4 and 5 are supported Standard Pathway classes. 
• Science Class 1 is a high potential class. Classes 2 and 3 are equal mixed-ability groups. Classes 4 and 5 are supported groups.
• Subject selection choices determine elective classes.

Year 10

• HSIE, RE and PDHPE - Class 1 is a high potential class and classes 2 - 5 are mixed ability classes. 
• English - Class 1 is a high potential class and classes 2 - 5 are mixed ability classes. 
• Mathematics classes 1 and 2 are streamed, with Class 1 being a high potential Extension Advanced class.  Classes 3 and 4 are mixed ability Advanced Pathway (these classes follow the same program as classes 1 - 2 with slight adjustments). Classes 5 and 6 are supported Standard Pathway classes. 
• Science Class 1 and 2 are high potential classes. Classes 3 and 4 are equal mixed-ability groups. Classes 5 and 6 are supported groups.
• Subject selection choices determine elective classes.

Classes are constructed based on a combination of data which may include NAPLAN, Allwell, PAT, school-based assessments as well as consultation with Instructional Leaders of Learning and Instructional Leaders of Wellbeing. Class structures will be reviewed at the end of each semester. 

NAPLAN

NAPLAN begins on Wednesday, 13 March for Years 3, 5 and 9, and on Friday 15th March for Year 7.  Parents/Guardians and students were sent information regarding the exact dates and details last week. In Week 6, Years 7 and 9 will be required to install the Lockdown Browser on their computers during homeroom. 

The following link provides some information to parents and carers about NAPLAN for 2024. This contains video links and information about NAPLAN, the public demonstration site, and how to support your son. 

YEAR 12 ASSESSMENT BLOCK

The Year 12 Assessment Block begins Wednesday, 20 March and concludes Wednesday, 27 March.  

The Assessment Block timetable and Student Responsibilities and Procedures have been emailed to all students. They are reminded to familiarise themselves with these documents thoroughly.

Anne Ung, Leader of Curriculum and Assessment

Creative & Performing Arts News

JUNIOR DRAMA ENSEMBLE
Students are warmly invited to join the Junior Drama Ensemble this year. 

In the Drama ensemble, students will take part in a variety of exercises and activities to learn improvisation and acting skills and create group performances. Students will also have opportunities to perform and showcase their talents. 

Who: Open to all students in Years 7-9
When: Every Tuesday afternoon from 3:15- 4:00pm
Where: Drama Room

Complete the Google Form to Register your interest

Student Feedback:
"Drama is very engaging and my confidence has significantly grown since I started." 
"Drama is not only a fun subject, but one that gives you experiences and opportunities of a lifetime."
"Drama helps you be comfortable with being uncomfortable. You take big risks in Drama and never regret them. You can express yourself for who you are."
"Drama is the best part of my day!"

SYDNEY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS EISTEDDFOD: DRAMA
Registrations are now OPEN for the 2024 the Sydney Catholic Schools Eisteddfod and will close Thursday, 14 March 2024.

If you are interested in participating, please complete the Google Form to register your interest. 

Important to note: Solos and duos will occur in the APRIL SCHOOL HOLIDAYS.

Please contact Ms Andreacchio at g.andreacchio@syd.catholic.edu.au if you require more information.

ONSTAGE EXCURSION
On Tuesday, 13 February 2024, Year 12 Drama students, along with Ms Andreacchio visited the Seymour Centre to view the Onstage showcase and exhibition. This event includes exemplary works from HSC Drama students in NSW from 2023.

Students were inspired by the range of works displayed and engaged in fruitful discussions in critiquing the works they saw. The range of projects and performance on display included:
       -   Monologue and Group Performances
        -   Moved Script Reading
        -   Video Drama Films
        -   Costume Designs
        -   Set Designs
        -   Poster and Program Designs
        -   Lighting Designs
        -   Portfolio of Theatre Criticism
        -   Director’s Folio
        -   Applied Research Project

The showcase emphasised the range of choices available to senior Drama students and demonstrated flair and integrity in the theatrical world. 

In 2023, one of our own HSC Drama students, Adam Dixon was nominated for the Onstage showcase for his Video Drama of ‘Oblivion’. 

Georgia Andreacchio, Drama Teacher

CIRCUS INCUSRION 
Last Monday, students in Years 10 and 12 Drama participated in a 2-hour acrobalance workshop with Swoop Physical Theatre. Drama students are learning a range of ensemble skills in storytelling, collaboration and communication, which are fundamental life skills. This workshop encouraged students to work as a team and promoted creativity and problem-solving. Students also had a whole lot of fun!

Year 12 Investigating Science ANSTO Excursion

On Tuesday, 20 February 2024, Year 12 Investigating Science visited ANSTO in Lucas Heights. The excursion covered content from Module 6: Technologies and Module 8: Science and Society. The following is a reflection from one of the students:

Primary News

Primary students have fully immersed themselves in the College's Phronesis program.  Most recently they have been learning and contributing ideas about building and maintaining positive relationships.  It has been wonderful seeing students apply this to their daily activities.  In such a small space of time the students have been able to clearly articulate that this program is focused on character development.

Fiona Roy, Year 6 Teacher/IL of Relgious Education Curriculum (Primary)

Music News

The Music Department would like to congratulate our Brass musicians on their contributions to the Opening Mass. Select musicians played alongside professional musicians and worked with Mr Daniel Justin, Musical Director of the Cathedral Choir for this prestigious Mass in the College calendar. Xavier Lovi (trombone), Noah Preobrajensky (trombone) and Daniel Russo (trumpet) are to be commended on their brilliant performances.

The Welcome Assembly featured musical processional music by the Senior Rock Band. The boys performed Summertime by Thirsty Merc to welcome the 2024 Year 7 cohort to St Mary’s in style. Well done and thank you boys for warmly welcoming the boys and ensuring we started the year off with a quality performance.

Adrian Roper-Tyler also deserves recognition for his outstanding rendition of Nocturne by Edvard Greig at the High Achievers Assembly. Adrian continues to refine and develop his HSC performance programme together with his cohort, as they progress towards their final examinations in Term 3. We wish them all the best in their preparations.

Congratulations to the Year 11 Rock Band for their performance at the High Achievers Assembly, ensuring that the atmosphere was truly celebratory. Griffin Hoy, Year 8,  demonstrated his fine musicianship on drums, maintaining a solid groove and ensemble awareness.Thank you gentlemen on your fine performance. 

The Lunchtime Concert Series officially commenced this week with student leadership through our year 12 musicians, taking up the opportunity to hone their performance skills and refining their etiquette as they prepare for the upcoming HSC examinations. Performances from Owen Lai on violin and Cameron Roper-Tyler on guitar were highlights of the programme. We look forward to Hunter Solomon's performance on drumkit next Wednesday in the Chapter Hall at 1:30pm. We invite the College staff, students and wider community to join us each week for these Concerts.

Alison Hunter, Leader of Music

Sport

SCS TOUCH & BASKETBALL

Round 1

Round 2

Round 3

SMCC SWIMMING CHAMPTIONSHIPS

The SMCC Swimming Championships were split into two carnivals this year- Middle School and Senior Schools. Both carnivals were fun filled days, with our boys showing tremendous enthusiasm and pride, both in the pool and in the stands.

The results for the carnivals are below:

Middle School

Senior School

 Congratulations to Moran House for winning the 2024 Swimming Championships.  

The 2024 Swimming Age Champions:   

       Pri          Jaiyden Barnes                   U15        Stuart MacDonald
       U12        Patrick Scott                       U16        Charles Barbour
       U13        Aleister Low                       17+        Mark Gifford
       U14        Alex Spencer         

CONFERENCE 1 SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS

The annual SCS Conference 1 Swimming Championships were held on Monday, 26 February at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. This carnival has the most comprehensive event schedule of any carnival that Cathedral competes in, and we were up against some really strong competition. 

We experienced some amazing individual and team success. Below are some highlights:

• Aleister Low. U13. 1st 50m Butterfly, 1st 50m Backstroke, 1st 100m Backstroke, 1st 50m Backstroke
• Max Henman. U13. 1st 50m Freestyle
• Alex Spencer. U14. 1st 50m Backstroke
• Oliver Low. U15. 1st 50m Butterfly
• Jack Charles. U15. 1st 50m Breaststroke, 1st 100m Breaststroke
• Mark Gifford. 17+. 1st 50m Freestyle, 1st 50m Butterfly
• Junior Boys Relay Team: 1st Freestyle, 1st Medley
• Under 15 Age Champion: Oliver Low

Cathedral also retained the Junior Age Division shield for the third year in a row, the Ratio shield and placed second overall. 

Congratulations to all of the members of our swim team and thank you to the coaches. 

We have several members of our team who have progressed to the Sydney Swimming Championships, where they will compete against the other three Sydney conferences. We wish those students the best of luck.

INDIVIDUAL SUCCESS

Noah Preobrajensky recently competed at the NSW Boulder Climbing Titles and placed 5th in NSW. Noah has now been selected for the NSW Junior Bouldering team, and will be competing at Nationals in the April holidays. 

Kai Stuetz recently competed in the NSW Surf Lifesaving Championships and placed 3rd in the Iron Person category, 5th in the Board Rescue and 2nd in the All Age Board Relay.

Simon Shaw, Leader of Co-Curricular (Sport)

From the Parents & Friends Committee

PARENT YEAR REPRESENTATIVES

Dear Parents/Carers,

I'm pleased to share our parent Year Representatives for 2024.

Our P&F email address: smccpfcommittee@gmail.com   to direct questions or comments.
Heidi Spiliopoulos Holt (President) tel: 0415 653 795
Amanda Sharwood (Vice-President) tel: 0425 251 546

Our year representatives will support the P&F by being the connecting force between the committee's messages, the school's messages and callouts for our support and the parents they are representing in their year group.

Introducing the Year Representatives:

Year 3/4 rep- Josue Castro
Jcasvilla@gmail.com

Year 5 rep - Christine Ho
Christine.minhchauho@gmail.com

Year 6 rep - Liz Vincent
lizalicevincent@gmail.com

Year 7 rep - Lucy Kara
lfvsnowball@gmail.com

Year 8 rep - Natalia Hennessy
Natalia.hennessy@gmail.com

Year 9 reps (both committee members)
Amanda Halpin - amandahalpin@optusnet.com.au
Jamily Lichaa - Jamilylichaa@gmail.com

Year 10 rep - Patrick Yu
peijun.au@gmail.com

Year 11 rep - Mary Lilic (committee member)
den996@bigpond.com

Year 12 - no representative

Should you have any inquiry, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Kind regards,
Heidi

Notices

PRIVACY COLLECTION NOTICE - DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

NATIONALLY CONSISTENT COLLECTION OF DATA ON SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH DISABILITY (NCCD)

Upcoming Dates