St Mary's Cathedral College Newsletter: Term 4, Week 5

From the College Principal

YEAR 12 HSC
The Class of 2024 has reached a significant milestone, completing their HSC exams on Friday, 8 November. After weeks of intense study—filled with essays, problem-solving, text analysis, equations, and demonstrating knowledge across various subjects—these students have shown remarkable perseverance and dedication.

My message to Year 12 has always been consistent. As you move forward, remember that your achievements go far beyond any mark or ATAR. You are defined by your character, your efforts, and the unique contributions you bring to the world. 

We look forward to celebrating with them at the HSC morning tea on 18 December and hearing about all the great things they have planned for the future.

STUDENT LEADERS INVESTITURE MASS
This term we acknowledged our 2024/2025 Student Leadership Team at their Investiture Mass. It was a moving ceremony and our College Captain, Evan Zafiropoulos gave a heartfelt speech, included below. We congratulate all of our incoming leaders. We know that they will continue the legacy of excellence at St Mary’s cathedral College into 2025, a significant and historic year.

Good Morning Fr Roberto, Mrs McDiarmid, staff, students and families.

Thank you for giving me the privilege to serve as college captain at the outset of this college’s bicentennial year. At this stage in my life, it is truly my greatest honour. I extend this gratitude especially to my friends and family, many of whom are present today. The support and dedication you have shown me means the world. Without it, I would not be able to stand before you  today.

I would also like to acknowledge and thank Dusan Cavric, the college’s outgoing captain, whose commitment to this college I strive to emulate.

Standing here today, I recognise that young people face many challenges  in this day and age.

Teenage years are a time of great uncertainty: it is a time where our future, and our sense of identity remain largely unknown to us. I believe that this makes us at our most fragile: as we face many stresses, fears and above all, insecurities. 

If I could envision a perfect school community, then it would be one which provides a sanctuary from this uncertainty. As we move forward into 2025, I believe that we must create a community where everyone feels accepted. It should be an environment where people are safe, included, and free to be themselves. 

For us students, building this community is a team effort. It is a conscious decision we make, to show respect, kindness and empathy to all those who walk through our college gates. I also believe that it is beckoning to speak up. I invite  every member of this community to share their ideas and voice their opinion, about what they believe our college community should look like. We must be brave enough to start conversations which matter. 

As leaders, it is our shared responsibility to facilitate this dialogue, to provide an open and inclusive space for students to share ideas, so we can build a strong foundation into which this college’s future will be built. I believe that we ought to look to Mary as the ultimate embodiment of Christian leadership; looking to serve with grace, commitment and faith as followers of  Christ.

My vision for this college is an ambitious one. Fulfilling it requires cohesion, dedication and commitment. 

However there is one word I dislike above all others, it is the word impossible. 

In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 1, we learn that “nothing will be impossible with God,” meaning that through faith, our potential is limitless. If we truly live by this teaching, then why should we place boundaries on what we can and can’t achieve? As a broader community, I believe that our focus should not be on what we think we can achieve, but rather what we are willing to try to accomplish. If we remain united, strong and committed, we can truly achieve anything. 

P&F THANKS
This term we had our final Parents and Friends Association meeting as we move to our new model for parent engagement in 2025 with the launch of our Parent Consultative Committee.  As we approach the end of the year and transition into the new structure, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all who have been involved in the P&F. We thank you for your invaluable contributions. Your support has enriched the lives of our students and fostered a close-knit community at our College.

A special thank you to our dedicated P&F Executive team: President Heidi Spiliopoulos Holt, Vice President Amanda Sharwood, Secretary Mary Lilic, Treasurer Layla Munoz, and Events Coordinators Janette Lum and Grainne Tierney-Reed. Your commitment and enthusiasm have left a lasting impact on our community.

Thank you for your ongoing support, passion, and partnership.

ALUMNI REUNION
The recent alumni reunion at St Mary’s Cathedral College was a night filled with memories, laughter, and connections across generations. Held in the historic Chapter Hall, the event welcomed alumni from various graduating years, with a special celebration for the class of 1974 marking their 50-year reunion. It was wonderful to see both recent graduates from the class of 2023 and distinguished alumni like Patricia Sumner from the class of 1952 join us, showcasing the strong legacy and sense of community at St Mary’s.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jake Ryan, President of the Alumni Association, for his dedication in organising the reunion. Special appreciation also goes to former Principal Mr. Michael Kelleher and the St Mary’s staff who attended, making the evening even more memorable. The gathering was a fantastic opportunity for past students to reconnect with old friends and share stories with current students, bringing the College’s spirit and history to life. We look forward to the next reunion and to continuing this tradition of celebrating our remarkable alumni community.

SENIOR RETREAT
From 4 December to 8 December, I had the privilege of attending the Senior Retreat, joining our Year 12 students for an incredibly meaningful and spiritual experience. With two groups attending, I had the chance to connect personally with each student as we explored the retreat’s theme—Trust, Love, Live. This time away from routine allowed students to be open to encounter, open to God, and open to each other. Reflecting on Matthew 14:22-33, particularly the verse, “Jesus put out his hand at once and held him,” we were reminded of the strength that comes from trusting in God’s constant, loving presence. The retreat began with Yongsung Kim’s beautiful image, "The Hand of God," setting a tone of assurance and guidance that carried us through the week.

During our time together, we shared moments of prayer, celebrated the Eucharist, and reflected deeply on the importance of trust—not only in God but also in the love and support of our families. The retreat encouraged the students to gain a deeper appreciation of their families, recognising the strength and trust that their families provide each day. It was also a powerful opportunity for the students to connect more closely with each other, to forgive past misunderstandings, to rebuild trust, and to find unity as a Year 12 cohort. These connections fostered a sense of shared purpose and solidarity that will surely carry forward into the year ahead.

I want to extend special thanks to Mr. Thomas Hunter, our Dean of Mission, and Mr. Christopher Maoudis, Dean of Senior School, whose dedication and hard work made this retreat possible. A very big thank you also to the staff members who gave generously of their time to be with our students. We were also tremendously blessed by the presence of Fr. Roberto and Fr. Reece, who joined us for the full week, bringing profound spiritual guidance to our journey.  Fr. Reece’s personal testimony brought the face of Christ into our midst, allowing us to witness God’s love through his openness and grace.

 As we look forward to reconnecting with this remarkable group again, I am grateful for the time we shared and I am inspired by each student’s willingness to open their hearts to God’s love and trust.

Kerrie McDiarmid, College Principal

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From the Dean of Senior School

Last week, our Year 12 students attended their annual retreat, an event that allowed them to pause, reflect, and reconnect under the theme of "Trust, Love, Live." Throughout the retreat, students explored their faith and examined the importance of trust and love in their lives. There were opportunities for deep self-reflection, exploring their relationships with family and their friends, and building a more personal relationship with God. The retreat created a supportive environment for students to share openly, deepen their faith, and find renewed purpose as they prepare for their final year together. 

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated teachers who attended the retreat and supported students throughout, as well as to Mr. Hunter for his skillful facilitation. His guidance and enthusiasm helped make the retreat a meaningful experience for everyone involved. We were blessed to have supported the retreat Fr Roberto and Fr Reece. Their contribution to the spiritual guidance of the boys was outstanding.  Thank you all for your commitment to creating a memorable retreat that will resonate with students for years to come.

We would also like to congratulate the Year 9 students on their engagement with the peer support application process. We were overwhelmed with applicants and the quality of the leadership groups is testament to the strength of the cohort. Their involvement in the training day was most pleasing and ultimately their first engagement with our incoming year seven students at the orientation day was truly outstanding. We will acknowledge these boys with the presentation of their badges at the annual Academic Assembly. 

As Year 10 students prepare for their upcoming exams, we encourage them to approach their studies with focus, dedication, and a positive mindset. Effective preparation includes creating a study schedule, revisiting notes from throughout the year, and practicing past exam questions. After the exams, we urge students to take time for reflection. Identifying areas of strength and areas for improvement is a valuable part of learning and growth, setting the foundation for future academic success.

As we move toward the end of the academic year, it's essential that all students remain focused on their assessment tasks and maintain consistent attendance. Every class, every assignment, and every assessment is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their learning and finish the year on a strong note. By staying committed to their studies and responsibilities, students can make the most of the last few weeks and close out the year with pride. We look forward to celebrating academic success at our annual Academic Awards Assembly later in the year. 

Chris Maoudis, Dean of Senior School

From the Dean of Middle School

As we approach the end of an exciting term, I’m delighted to share recent highlights and upcoming events that showcase our Middle School community's dedication, learning, and spirit.

Our Year 6 students recently enjoyed an enriching learning trip to Canberra, which brought Australia’s political and historical landscape to life. From visiting Parliament House to exploring the Australian War Memorial, the students engaged with our nation’s heritage, gaining insights that enhanced their classroom learning and fostering a sense of civic pride. Seeing our students return with fresh perspectives and enthusiasm for their studies was wonderful.

Looking ahead, we were excited to welcome our incoming Year 7 students for Orientation Day this week. The day gave the new students a chance to explore the campus, meet their teachers, and start building friendships that will support them through this new stage of their journey. We’re eager to see these new faces become part of the St Mary’s community.

In sports news, congratulations are for our representative teams in Volleyball and Oztag, who have achieved remarkable success. Their teamwork, resilience, and dedication on the field exemplify the values we cherish at St Mary’s. Our coaches and players have much to be proud of!

We had a wonderful Year 3-6 Assembly recently where great work was showcased and various awards were presented and received with much pride. A stellar effort from our students.

Finally, as we prepare for end-of-year exams, I encourage all students to approach their studies with focus and perseverance. It’s an important time to consolidate learning, review goals, and celebrate personal growth.

Thank you to our wonderful families for your ongoing support, and best wishes to all our students as they work towards a strong finish to the year.

Be engaged, Be Kind and Be the best you can be every day.

David Timillero, Dean of Middle School

From the Dean of Mission

GRADUATION MASS AND STAFF SPIRITUALITY DAY
Week 10 last Term was full of many significant moments to reflect together as a community on important values, achievements and hopes for the time ahead. On Tuesday, we came together to celebrate our 2024 Year 12 graduation Mass led by Father Roberto (who himself graduated from SMCC in 2008). This was a wonderful occasion where our prayers united with the Gospel of Luke that states, ‘‘... hear the word of God and put it into practice.” Fr Roberto reminded the graduates that it is now over to them to take what they have learned and, as the Gospel reminds us, live it as a credible witness. Our College Captain, Dusan Cavric, addressed the College one last time giving the advice to those yet to graduate, “... take advantage of all the opportunities you are given, whilst understanding the limited time you actually have here.” 

On the Friday of Week 10, the staff of the College had their annual spirituality day. The focus was on our College patron Mary Mother of God. The day started with a Mass at the Cathedral before hearing a presentation titled, ‘Mary the Faithful Disciple’. This was given by Sister Isabell Naumann who is the current president of the Catholic Institute of Sydney. In 2021 she was called by Pope Francis to be a member of the International Theological Commission. Some key points of Sister Isabell’s presentation were explanations of how Scriptural narratives on Mary demonstrate how she stands as a sign of hope, and how in her we see what we are and what we are called to become – a people perfectly loved by God, and capable of perfectly loving all others. Spirituality days are an important investment, as they give staff an opportunity to really focus on the deeper reasons why it is such a sacred privilege to work with each other, with families and for the students within our College. 

CAMBODIA IMMERSION
The College is setting up a ‘sister school’ relationship with another K-12 CoEd College in Cambodia, St Francis General, to give our own students a greater opportunity to teach and learn from a broader, and at times suitably challenging, context. We would also like to offer from next year an immersion opportunity for students in Years 10 and 11 to travel to Cambodia and spend time at St Francis General on an immersion trip. Such experiences are important for many reasons, but the particular importance is one of solidarity and accompaniment. All students at St Francis General would not be able to access an education without the establishment of their school through the care and effort of so many other people. With 50% of the population in Cambodia under 25 years old, you can imagine the teacher shortage – certainly of experienced teachers. Having people like our Year 10 and 11 students visit St Francis General goes a long way to encourage the students and staff there and establishes confidence, encouragement, friendship and reminds us all that our God-given dignity is not recognised through a postcode or bank account, but through being present with each other, through dialogue, through shared laughter and at times through shared tears. 

Mr Rolls and myself went on a brief trip with Catholic Mission to Cambodia – including to St Francis General – to ensure this is a safe and suitable place for an immersion. We were both impressed with the level of care Catholic Mission, as an organisation was able to provide, and with the opportunities available for our students and staff. We look forward to taking our first group over to Cambodia on an eleven day trip in the September/October school holidays 2025. The linked video by local Bishop Enrique “Kike” Figaredo Alvargonzalez captures the purpose of an immersion very well. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8QVmkithBY&t=10s

SENIOR RETREAT
In Week 4 of this Term we held our senior retreat with the 2024/25 Year 12 Cohort. The theme this year was a reflection on what it means to Trust, Love, and Live in the context of our lives and in a context of the Christian faith. Our chosen Gospel was Matthew 14:22-33 and the particular verse we focused on, through the attached artwork was  “Jesus putting out his hand at once and held him”. We hope that the retreat was just the start of a new found appreciation for the students in knowing that they can always rely on God and act in the person of God in reaching out to help us in all situations. 

On retreat, students participated in reflective spiritual activities, and deepened their understanding of Christ-centred living in today’s world. We were very blessed to be joined for the whole week by Fr Roberto (College Chaplain) and Fr Reece (Spiritual Director of Wagga Wagga Seminary), whose dedication to their priestly vocations and inspiring witness to God’s love made a lasting impact. I would like to express my deep appreciation of the students who really entered into this experience, and for all the staff involved who made a significant personal commitment to ensure the retreat went so well.

OLD UNIFORM COLLECTION
Catholic Mission has identified several communities in the Philippines who would very much appreciate the following old uniform items:

• White shirts
• Trousers
• Current sports uniforms
• Belts

To that end, SMCC will be collecting these items until COB Tuesday, 17 December.  Items must be in good condition and clean - please consider whether others would be proud to wear these items. Please do not bring in shoes, ties or socks. If shoes are in good condition you may like to consider donating these to, Vinnies, Red Cross or Salvation Army. 

Year 12 students attending the College to hand in their departure form, may like to use this opportunity to bring in any of the above items. 

Four labelled tubs (one for each of the above items) have been placed in the College foyer. I would like to thank all families who have and will be involved in this, and to extend a special thank you to Mrs Jennifer Pas who has generously led this initiative. 

Thomas Hunter, Dean of Mission

From the Dean of Liberal Arts

STUDENT PARLIAMENT LEADS AI INITIATIVE
Recently, members of our Student Parliament participated in an AI Summit, where they engaged with industry experts who shared insights on how AI is transforming various workplaces. Students learned about practical applications of AI, from automation to data analysis, sparking thoughtful discussions on the role of technology in education. Inspired by the Summit, the Student Parliament crafted a resolution to establish guidelines for the ethical and effective use of AI within our school. These guidelines aim to ensure responsible engagement with AI tools and promote a balanced approach to technology in learning.

PAT TESTING IN YEARS 3–10
Students in Years 3–10 have been participating in the Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) for reading and mathematics. These assessments are designed to gauge each student’s academic progress, providing valuable insights into their strengths and areas for growth. Aligned with our curriculum, the PAT tests serve as a diagnostic tool, enabling our teachers to tailor instruction to the specific needs of each student. The data gathered helps us to:

• Identify individual and group learning needs.
• Develop strategies to address any learning gaps.
• Provide support for students needing extra assistance or extension.
• Monitor academic growth over time.

By participating in PAT testing, students gain a valuable opportunity to reflect on their learning journey. 

BUILDING CHARACTER THROUGH PHRONESIS
Our Phronesis character education program is in full swing this term, with sessions that challenge students to explore what it means to be their best selves. Key topics include emotional regulation, study skills, and goal setting, as well as environmental awareness through activities like Planet Ark. Additionally, students are preparing to welcome new peers to our school community, practising empathy and leadership. The Phronesis program continues to provide students with tools for personal growth, resilience, and a strong sense of community, aligning with our commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.

Belinda VanderGert, Dean of Liberal Arts

From the Leader of Curriculum & Assessment

HSC EXAMINATIONS
Congratulations to our Year 12 students on completing their HSC examinations! We are incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work each of our students have shown throughout this challenging journey. We hope that their efforts have paid off and that they feel a great sense of achievement. As they now look forward to the results release on 18 December, we wish them all the best for a bright and fulfilling future.

YEAR 11 UPDATE
As we venture into the sixth week of Term 4, it's an exciting time for our Year 11 students. They've embarked on their HSC course, a significant step in their academic journey. To ensure they achieve their best results in this crucial year, it's vital for every student to make the most of their time.

Here are some key steps to success for Year 11:

Regular Attendance: Attending school regularly is the foundation of academic progress. Encourage your son to be punctual and present in all classes.

Active Participation: Active engagement in classes, asking questions, and participating in discussions fosters deeper learning and understanding.

Homework Commitment: Consistently completing homework assignments is a valuable practice that reinforces classroom learning.

Thorough Assessment Preparation: Success in the HSC begins with a strong foundation. Ensure your son completes all assessment tasks with diligence.

We have provided students and parents with the HSC Assessment Handbook, a comprehensive guide that includes the College's HSC Assessment Policy and assessment schedules for each subject. You can find this document under the "Favourites" tab in the Compass Portal. 

We strongly encourage all students and parents to become familiar with the information in this handbook. It will help your son plan and prepare for the challenges and demands of the HSC year ahead.

YEAR 10 ASSESSMENT BLOCK
The Year 10 Assessment Block begins Monday, 18 November and concludes Friday, 22 November.  

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

THE RECORD OF SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT (RoSA) CREDENTIALS
For students in Years 10 and 11 who will be leaving the College at the end of the year to enter full-time employment or pursue non-secondary school educational/training paths, they are eligible for a RoSA from the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA). You can find more information about the RoSA on the Authority's website, accessible through the following links:

Record of School Achievement

Students who continue their education and complete the HSC will have their Year 10 and Year 11 grades included in their HSC Record of Achievement.

For further details about HSC credentials, please refer to this link.

HSC Credential

Anne Ung, Leader of Curriculum & Assessment

From the Leader of Pathways & Partnerships

SYDNEY WATER
On Thursday, 17 October,  a group of year 10 students attended the inaugural Sydney Water Youth Forum with Ms Tafeuni. Sydney Water hosted the inaugural "Water is Life" Youth Forum for over 150 high school students to address water literacy and conservation in Greater Sydney. Led by Ambassador Shane Jacobson, the event launched National Water Week, allowing students to explore Sydney Water’s sustainability plans and future-proofing initiatives. Through expert-led masterclasses, students learned about issues like water scarcity, alternative freshwater sources, and the urban water cycle. Sydney Water leaders highlighted the forum’s role in fostering future water advocates, with students encouraged to consider careers in water conservation and infrastructure, inspired by hands-on insights into Sydney Water's work. According to student Daniel Russo the “Sydney Water Event was a great day — we saw Shane Jacobson, learnt about the importance of conserving water in our own ways, learnt about the different water sources in Sydney and how they operate as well as the push towards purified recycled water in Australia mirroring this system in other countries”. 

PLAYCONOMICS
This Term, Commerce, Economics and Business Studies students have been invited to participate in Playconomics. Playconomics is an innovative, interactive online platform developed by the University of New South Wales (UNSW) designed to teach the fundamentals of economics through a game-based experience. It allows students to engage with economic concepts by simulating real-world economic scenarios, like running a virtual economy, making policy decisions, and analysing the impacts of those choices. Students complete the program concurrently with university students and on completion receive partial credit to the university course. If any interested student has yet to receive their unique login details please contact your class teacher or Mr Norman.

THE GRAND CHALLENGE
On Wednesday, 6 November, a small group of Year 9 students participated in The Grand Challenge at the University of Sydney. Led by Ms Schwedes, the students engaged in a day-long event tackling a real-world issue: reducing CO₂ emissions to achieve Net-Zero and combat climate change. Students learnt about this global problem, then brainstormed, developed, and pitched innovative solutions to their peers and STEM experts. The challenge emphasised the need for a major technological revolution to balance CO₂ levels and protect the planet for future generations. All students involved were commended on their participation and in particular, their ability to work collaboratively with others. 

 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 Youth Minister

YEAR 9 STUDENTS' WEEKLY VISITS TO VINCENTIA AGE CARE
Each week, six of our students have the opportunity to engage with the residents, fostering community spirit and building meaningful connections.

During their visits, our students participate in various activities that promote interaction and enjoyment. Students have meaningful conversations with the residents, learning about their life stories, experiences, and wisdom. This not only helps the students develop communication skills but also enriches the residents' day.

The students play chess and pool with the residents. These games not only provide entertainment but also encourage teamwork and strategic thinking.

The visits to Vincentia Age Care are more than just activities; they are about building a sense of community. Our students are learning the importance of empathy, respect, and kindness towards others, especially the elderly. This experience is helping them grow into compassionate individuals who value connections with people of all ages.

We look forward to sharing more updates about their experiences and the friendships they are building.

YEAR 10 STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN THE 10:10 PROJECT
Our Year 10 students have been actively participating in the Sydney Catholic Schools "10:10 Project," an enriching consent education program grounded in Catholic teachings. This initiative takes its name from the Scripture passage, John 10:10: "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly."

The 10:10 Project is built on the foundation of Saint John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, which emphasises the importance of understanding one’s purpose, worth, and the significance of respectful relationships. Through this program, students are learning about authentic, self-sacrificial love and how it relates to their interactions with others.

A key focus of the 10:10 Project is to help students redefine consent from a Catholic perspective. By fostering an understanding of respectful relationships, the program aims to encourage young people to reserve consent for the sacrament of marriage and to counteract the prevalent culture of use and abuse in society.

In a few weeks, students will have the opportunity to attend a final 10:10 retreat, where they will further explore these themes and deepen their understanding of the program's teachings. We believe that this experience will not only enhance their knowledge but also empower them to build meaningful and respectful relationships in their lives.

We look forward to seeing how this valuable program will positively impact our students and our school community!

Niamh McGrath, Youth Minister

Creative & Performing Arts News

SMCC STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL

Please Register HERE to participate in the 2025 Student Film Festival

2025 DRAMA PRODUCTION
Students in Years 5-11 in 2025 are invited to be a part of the St Mary’s Cathedral College’s Production ‘Boy Overboard’ in 2025.

Please read the Audition Pack carefully and register your interest for roles in performance and crew.

Please direct any questions to Ms Andreacchio at g.andreacchio@syd.catholic.edu.au 

SEASON 14 OF SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTS: FOCUSING ON SYDNEY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS HSC CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS SHOWCASE 
Congratulations to the following students for their involvement in the Sydney Catholic Schools 2024 HSC CAPA Showcase: Luke Thwaites, Joel Ruz, Cameron Roper-Tyler, Adrian Roper-Tyler and Jasper Connor.

Episode 3- HSC Drama features Sydney Catholic Schools HSC Drama students including students from St Mary's Cathedral College. Listen to our students advocate for the importance of a Drama education and hear their HSC progress. 

Georgia Andreacchio, Drama Teacher

ONSTAGE NOMINATION

Congratulations to Joel Ruz who has had his short film ‘Glimpses of Transience’ nominated for Onstage 2025. This is an exhibition of exemplary HSC Drama projects and performances. 

From LOTE

YEAR 11 ITALIAN EXCURSION
In Week One of this term, our Year 11 Italian class embarked on an excursion to coincide with their studies of Italian cinema and food.  The destination for the day was Leichhardt, also known as Sydney's 'Little Italy'.  To begin our excursion, the class headed to the Palace Cinemas on Norton Street to see the film La guerra dei nonni (The War of the Grandparents), which was showing as part of the annual Italian Film Festival.  The students described it as a wholesome film which was great for families, which allowed them to put their listening skills to the test, as well as to pick up some new words to add to their vocabulary!

After the film, we headed down Norton Street to Mario's Pizza Bar.  We had a delicious pizza feast which was probably the highlight of the day; the students were able to eat some authentic woodfired Italian pizza and even got some to take home as well.  After our lunch, we went across the road to the Italian Forum to see what it was like and reflect on how well it represented a typical Italian piazza.

To finish the day, the class headed to the Italian-Australian institution, Bar Italia, to indulge in some Italian gelato.  It was a delicious note to finish the day on, and it was wonderful for the class to be able to experience a little bit of Italian culture in Sydney.

Elyse Williams - Instructional Leader of Learning (Languages)

From HSIE

YEAR 10 COMMERCE MARKET DAY
Year 10 Commerce Market Day is without a doubt one of the most anticipated days of the school year! Year 7 students were overheard today discussing what they wanted to do three years from now. Commerce students regard it as the highlight of the course, a fun and instructional way to learn about the perils and rewards of running a business. The Market Day activities form the students' last assessment in Commerce. Students must evolve a 'business plan', seeking to sell a (hopefully) popular product at a profit. They must take into account the cost of supplies, selling price and volume of sales. The lower the costs, the higher the potential for profit. This is a fine point, since you can have a high volume of sales but if you don't price your goods to balance with demand, your profit could be minimal. Most groups did sell out during their allocated timeslot, which shows the popularity of the event. In their Commerce lesson next week, students will now reflect on the process - what went well, what didn't and where they could have improved. All profits - which totalled over $1100 - will be donated to Caritas Australia. Congratulations to Ms Jones and Ms Heaney on a job well done, and Mr Puiu for lending his name and image to one of the groups!

Ashley Pereira, Instructional Leader HSIE

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SYDNEY WATER YOUTH FORUM
On 17 October 2024, Mrs Tafeuni and fifteen Year 10 students from SMCC along with five other hand selected schools, had the pleasure of attending the inaugural 'Water is Life!' Youth Forum at Sydney Water's HQ in Parramatta.  We arrived at 9:30 am for a 10 am start. When we arrived, we were greeted by the staff before making our way to level 4 where we familiarised ourselves with the area before entering their conference room for the introduction hosted by actor, TV presenter and Sydney Water ambassador Shane Jacobson. He explained to us some of the campaigns he'd done with the company and some of the statistics that were important in understanding when we use water. Afterwards, we took some photos with Shane, and I was honoured to be interviewed by him in regards to water conservation. Throughout the day we were able to learn about the importance and value of water through different activities: how much water is utilised around the world, the marketing strategies Sydney Water uses to promote awareness, how First Nations people have a spiritual connection to water and learning about the company's ambition to build a Purified Recycled Water (PRW) plant to ease demand on rainwater. Then we gathered in the conference room to reflect on what we had learnt before we ended the day. Overall a great day out, a great initiative by Sydney Water and one that we all enjoyed and were honoured to be part of. We look forward to being a part of next year's forum!

Cristiano Epifana, Year 10 Student

From TAS

SENIOR CONSTRUCTION CLASS VISITS NEW VERTICAL CLASSROOM SITE
Last Thursday, our senior construction students had a unique opportunity to experience a construction site firsthand right here at school! The class took an onsite tour of the new vertical classroom building currently under construction, giving them a front-row seat to observe the very concepts and skills they’ve been mastering.

Seeing an active construction site in action was nothing short of thrilling. From safety protocols and structural frameworks to the use of advanced building materials and technologies, this experience brought textbook scenarios to life.

The visit allowed students to ask questions, observe techniques, and gain insights into industry standards and construction challenges. Watching professionals at work on a project so close to home offered an inspiring glimpse into their future careers in construction. 

We’re proud of our construction students and excited to see them "build" on this experience (sorry, could not help the pun) as they continue their journey toward becoming skilled tradespeople and future builders of our community.

James King, Instructional Leader VET

Elizabeth Seares, TAS Teacher

SMCC Student Parliament

AI SUMMIT
On Tuesday, 29 October, the SMCC Parliament had the unique opportunity to conduct an AI Summit, featuring a variety of activities focused on the topic of Artificial Intelligence. This event served as preparation for an upcoming AI summit that our school is organising, where we’ll engage with other Sydney Catholic schools from our Diocese to discuss the question: Should AI be more integrated into student learning?

Our day began with an in-depth analysis of survey results. Each year group gathered data from a Google form survey that had been previously distributed to their cohort, exploring questions about AI use at home and school, as well as capturing students' opinions and perspectives. These insights provided a foundation for each grade to prepare a concise 1-2 minute speech summarising their cohort's findings. After presenting our speeches to the parliament, we discussed and compared the results across the year groups, noting the variety of perspectives and trends in each cohort.

Following this, we joined a Zoom call with Jamie van Leeuwen, the creator of ‘Absolutely AI’, a groundbreaking platform that combines the latest AI technology with expertise in design, photography, and media to produce content for brands and creative projects. This platform allows users to recreate graphics or artwork with the click of a button, showcasing the transformative potential of AI in creative industries. Jamie generously shared his experiences and insights into the AI industry, as well as his vision for how AI can continue to innovate in design and content creation. We were also privileged to ask questions and address any of our concerns, regarding the revolution of this product.

After this meeting, each year group reviewed the proposed resolutions for the upcoming AI summit and determined whether their cohort’s survey results aligned with these decisions. This part of the day was especially enjoyable, as students engaged in debates over whether these resolutions should be adopted. Each group shared their perspectives and considered opposing views before casting a final vote on each resolution.

The next day we all joined a Zoom call with Matthew Sanders, the founder of Longbeard and creator of ‘Magisterium AI’, a tool designed to simplify theological and philosophical concepts. I believe Matthew’s insights into AI's applications within the Catholic Church were extremely engaging, while students also had the opportunity to be involved in a Q&A. This final session concluded our informative and enjoyable AI Summit, leaving me with a range of perspectives and lessons on AI's potential in education and beyond.

Nathan Azzi, Year 10 Student Parliament Representative

Music News

SSO YOUNG MUSICIANS WORKSHOP - AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHINE
Congratulations to our brilliant musicians who engaged in the SSO Young Musicians Workshop, Lucas Ong (violin) and Rocky-Dimitri Holt (trumpet). The concluding Family and Friends showcase was well attended and the highlights included sophisticated repertoire by Copland, Tchaikovsky and Handel. 

This extension opportunity was student driven, with the selected musicians auditioning and preparing recordings as part of the audition process. Our warmest congratulations to those SMCC student musicians rising to the challenge.

Their reports provide two perspectives from within the Orchestra.

2024 YEAR 10 ELECTIVE MUSIC RECITAL NIGHT
We are delighted to invite our wider College community to a wonderful concert showcasing the performances of our Elective Music students. This special event celebrates the hard work, talent, and dedication of our student musicians and promises an exciting evening of live performances.

This concert will be held in the beautiful Chapter Hall. Doors open via St Mary’s Road at 4:45pm.

Week 5, Friday 15 November, 2024
Year 10 Elective Music Recital Night 5pm - 6:30pm 
Chapter Hall

SCS SONGWRITING HOLIDAY WORKSHOP

REACHING BEYOND THE MUSIC CURRICULUM IN PERFORMANCE
Congratulations to Oisin Cantwell on his successful audition earlier this year for the Sydney Youth Orchestra programs. Oisin accepted a position on double bass within the Peter Seymore Orchestra, which was from a highly competitive field. This is a commendable achievement and we celebrate Oisin’s success and efforts.

2024 SMCC AMADEUS SHOWCASE CONCERTS
We invite our Year 7 parents and carers to attend our SMCC Amadeus Showcase Band or String Ensemble Concerts, which will be held in Week 7 during our regular Amadeus music classroom ensemble sessions.

The SMCC Amadeus Bands Showcase will be held in Chapter Hall,  Week 7 Tuesday 26 November, 2024 at 9:20am-10:00am. Classes for this showcase include 7 music 1, 7 music 2 and 7 music 3.

Doors will open at 9:15am for parents & carers via St Mary’s Road.

Our Amadeus Band ensembles will present a selection of pieces that they have learnt in Semester 2 with their Amadeus tutors for family and friends on this occasion.  

The SMCC Amadeus Strings Showcase will be held in Chapter Hall, Week 7 Wednesday 27 November, 2024 at 2:20pm-3:00pm. Classes for this showcase include 7 music 5, 7 music 6 and 7 music 7.

Doors will open at 2:15pm for parents & carers via St Mary’s Road.

Our Amadeus String ensembles will present a selection of pieces that they have learnt in Semester 2 with their Amadeus tutors for family and friends at this time. 

SMCC SEMESTER 2 CONCERT WEEK - AN INVITATION
We warmly invite the wider College community to join us in celebrating the musical achievements in performance at SMCC through our final performances for 2024. The final Ensemble Concert series will showcase our wonderful Ensembles and are free events. 

If you are planning on joining an Ensemble in 2025, these concerts provide you with the opportunity to hear each group perform a selection of songs as the year concludes for 2024. Each Concert will be unique and welcoming. Come along and join in our Concert celebrations.

Music Ensemble Application

We ask that all student musicians and audience members remain for the duration of the concerts.

Week 8, Tuesday 3 December, 2024
SMCC Contemporary Music Night 5pm - 7pm 
Chapter Hall

Featured ensembles include:
Middle School Rock Band
Rock Band 1
Rock Band 2
Rock Band 3
Funk Band
Contemporary Guitar Ensemble 
Tango Media Luna

Week 8, Wednesday 4 December, 2024
Saxophone Quartet Performance Lunchtime Concert Performance 1:30pm - 2:00pm 
Chapter Hall

Week 8, Friday 6 December, 2024
SMCC Bands & Strings Concert 5pm - 7pm 
College Hall

Featured ensembles include:
Poco Strings 
Junior Strings
Cathedral Strings
Classical Spanish Guitar Ensemble
Primary Band
Junior Band
Intermediate Band
Senior Band

INDIVIDUAL MUSIC TUITION AT SMCC
Consider enrolling now to secure your lesson in 2025.

We have opportunities for students to undertake private instrumental lessons with some of Sydney’s finest active professional musicians here at the College. We facilitate face-to-face learning experiences to maximise your progress, understanding and musicianship.  If you are an Elective Music student or have only just started learning an instrument this year, we invite you to enrol in an Instrumental Tuition lesson to support and fast track your musical success. For further information and to enrol, please refer to the Instrumental Music Tuition Application

A friendly reminder to all students engaging in the Instrumental Tuition program that Instrumental Teachers must be notified directly a minimum of 24 hours in advance of absences or lesson fees will be charged. It is the student's responsibility to inform his Instrumental Teacher, as soon as possible, if there is a scheduled Assessment or other pre-notified school activity that will prevent his attendance on his particular lesson day. This includes illness or misadventure. Please note that every effort is made by the Music department to support the rescheduling of lessons due to College disruptions, to ensure a continuity of learning & engagement.

Please note that:

• For Instrumental lessons: Students who are enrolled in 2024 are automatically enrolled into subsequent terms for the 2025 year unless written notice is given at least two weeks before the end of term. Discontinuation should be communicated to the Instrumental Teacher directly and the Music department via  the 2024 Change of Enrolment Form & an email to smccsydney-music@syd.catholic.edu.au 
  
• There are no refunds or discounts for lessons missed during the term.
• Please send a courtesy email with reason to smccsydney-music@syd.catholic.edu.au should you be unable to attend an ensemble rehearsal. 

TERM 4 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Week 5, Friday 15 November, 2024
Year 10 Elective Music Recital Night 5pm - 6:30pm 
Chapter Hall

Week 6, Thursday 21 November, 2024
Bicentennial Finale Cathedral Strings Performance  4:00pm - 6:45pm 
Sydney Opera House

Week 7, Tuesday 26 November, 2024
SMCC Amadeus Bands in Concert 9:15am -10:00am
Chapter Hall

Week 7, Wednesday 27 November, 2024
SMCC Amadeus Strings in Concert 2:15pm -3:00pm
Chapter Hall

Week 7, Friday 29 November, 2024
Last day to withdraw from individual music tuition & Ensembles for 2025
Form for change of enrolment is provided in the Form links below 

Week 8, Tuesday 3 December, 2024
SMCC Contemporary Music Night 5pm - 7pm 
Chapter Hall

Week 8, Wednesday 4 December, 2024
Saxophone Quartet Performance Lunchtime Concert Performance 1:30pm - 2:00pm 
Chapter Hall

Week 8, Friday 6 December, 2024
SMCC Bands & Strings Concert 5pm - 7pm 
College Hall

Week 9 & 10, Monday 9 December - Friday 20 December, 2024
SMCC No Ensemble rehearsals
Individual lessons are finalised for the year (week 9 only)

Alison Hunter, Leader of Music

Sport News

SCS CRICKET, OZTAG & VOLLEYBALL

Round 1

Round 2

Round 3

Round 4

Simon Shaw, Instructional Leader Co-curricular/Sport

Community News

PLANNING YOUR TRANSPORT TO/FROM SCHOOL
Earlier in 2024 we completed a transport questionnaire. Thank you for participating as we had a really high response rate of 664 students (81%) and 70 staff (76%) 142 responses. More than 500 students are using public transport each morning and afternoon.  We have some of the best public transport access in Sydney – especially with the new metro line opening more services at Town Hall and Martin Place stations. To understand more about your best transport options, please put your starting address into the Trip Planner:

Link: https://transportnsw.info/trip#/trip

SCHOOL STUDENT TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS

School Travel Passes

Applications are now open for 2025 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel. 

Students in the Opal network applying for an Opal card (including a Term Bus Pass) for the first time will receive their School Opal card at their nominated postal address from mid-January 2025.

Students who require a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply or update their details as soon as possible.

In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.

Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator. It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.

Terms of Use

Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.

This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.

All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.

Upcoming Dates