St Mary's Cathedral College Newsletter: Term 2, Week 6

From the College Principal

ST MARY'S DAY: A CELEBRATION OF FAITH AND COMMUNITY
On Friday 30 May, our College community came together to celebrate St Mary's Day with a beautiful Eucharistic celebration. We extend our sincerest gratitude to everyone who joined us for this special occasion.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our esteemed celebrants and proud alumni of the College: Fr Geoffrey Plant, Fr Robert Borg,  and our dedicated College Chaplain, Fr Roberto Keryakos. Your presence, pastoral leadership, and continued support of our community are deeply appreciated.

During the Mass, I encouraged the community to  reflect on the profound words of our newly elected Pope Leo XIV: "We are disciples of Christ. Christ goes before us, and the world needs His light. Humanity needs Him like a bridge to reach God and His love.”

In a world that often grapples with uncertainty and division, the light of Christ, revealed through truth, compassion, and hope  is more essential than ever. We are called to embody this light in all we do: in our words, our actions, our relationships, and our service to others.

No one exemplifies this calling more perfectly than Mary, Help of Christians, our Patron. She carried within her the Light of the World and, with quiet strength and unwavering faith, gave Him to the world. Her life remains a radiant testament to God’s love and grace. As we reflected on the Feast of the Visitation, we remembered Mary, pregnant with Jesus, making the long journey to support her cousin Elizabeth. This encounter beautifully illustrates how the light of Christ brings joy, recognition, and blessings. Mary's journey teaches us the essence of being bearers of Christ's light: to walk humbly, serve generously, and love without hesitation.

NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK
National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. Our students proudly represented the College and Sydney Catholic Schools at the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans Commemoration at the ANZAC memorial, Hyde Park on Friday, 30 May 2025.

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 16

Next

STAFF PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
All staff will take part in a Professional Learning day on Friday, 6 June 2025. A reminder that this is a pupil free day. Staff will be engaging in learning activities surrounding the use of AI in schools, facilitated by Professor Matt Bower from the School of Education at Macquarie University. Matt specialises in the innovative use of technology for learning purposes and will work with staff in the effective use of generative AI in learning design and assessment. 

TELL THEM FROM ME SURVEY
As part of our focus on school effectiveness, St Mary’s Cathedral College will be participating in an online survey for parents and students – Tell Them From Me (TTFM).  The survey will provide us with valuable feedback on what our community thinks about school life, how engaged they are with school, and the different ways that teachers interact with them. Schools in Australia and around the world have used the Tell Them From Me survey to help them improve. 

We value the role of parents and carers and your feedback is important to us. The information you provide will ensure we maintain our commitment to working in partnership with you to ensure our continued commitment to a quality educational experience for your son. 

This is an anonymous survey, which takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. The survey has been shared with you and will remain open until 13 June. Staff and students have also participated in the survey.

Kerrie McDiarmid, College Principal

From the College Chaplain

Dear SMCC Community,

Happy Easter to you all! Yes, we are still in the Easter Season. Easter ends at the end of the day this Sunday, 8 June, Pentecost Sunday. Pentecost is the feast when we recall the day the Holy Spirit descended upon Mary and the Apostles at Pentecost, showering supernatural gifts on them and strengthening them for their mission ahead.

If you have received the Sacrament of Confirmation, you too have received what Mary and the Apostles received at Pentecost. The Catechism of the Catholic Church n. 1303 reminds us that the Sacrament of Confirmation “brings an increase and deepening of baptismal grace. [In particular:] - it roots us more deeply in the divine filiation which makes us cry, “Abba! Father!”; - it unites us more firmly to Christ; - it increases the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us; - it renders our bond with the Church more perfect; - it gives us a special strength of the Holy Spirit to spread and defend the faith by word and action as true witnesses of Christ, - to confess the name of Christ boldly, - and never to be ashamed of the Cross.”

If we really take time to consider the above, we would all have much reason to be thankful to God. Thankful that He loves us, that we can call Him “Father!” and that we are bound to Christ, His Son, our Lord, in a marvellous way in the Sacraments, and in this context, the Sacrament of Confirmation.

In particular, the exhortation enjoined on the confirmed to “spread and defend the faith…” is one we should not take lightly. Confirmed Christians must – not just an optional extra – spread and defend the faith, in other words, be a “witness”. And in Greek, the word, “witness” is μάρτυς (martus), from which we get the word, “martyr”. Yes, we are called to be witnesses to Christ, martyrs, should He call us to that.

And whilst not a martyr, we have a new Pope! Pope Leo XIV, who became the earthly head of the Catholic Church on 8 May 2025, after the death of our beloved Pope Francis on 21 April 2025. Pope Francis courageously guided the Church here on earth for twelve years, we pray that Pope Leo XIV may guide us for many years to come.

Our sacramental program is in full swing, with the Sacrament of Reconciliation over, Holy Communion ongoing and Confirmation in July/August. To enrol your child to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation please click HERE.

Baptism, Reconciliation and Holy Communion are the prerequisite Sacraments before one can receive Confirmation.

Once again, from all of us here at the Cathedral: Archbishop Anthony Fisher, Frs Don Richardson, Ben Saliba, William Chow and myself, we wish you all a blessed Easter to you and to your families. May the power of the Risen Christ strengthen us all to persevere in our lives of holiness now so that when He calls us home, we may meet Him in the great joys of the heavenly kingdom.

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

ST MARY'S DAY
On Friday 30 May the College celebrated St Mary's Day. Every year on, or in anticipation of, the Feast of the Visitation of Mary - our College Patroness - the College comes together to remember our rich heritage that began with Fr John Therry’s initiative to found a school on this site in 1824. From that time both laypeople and religious orders have supported student learning and pastoral care at St Mary’s – first the Benedictines, followed by Sisters of Charity and Marist Brothers and for over 100 Years the Christian Brothers. We were honoured to be joined at our Mass by former students and priests, Fr Roberto Keryakos (College Chaplain), Fr Geoffrey Plant and Fr Robert Borg.  Also present for our Mass were former principal and Christian Brother Paul Oakley and former student Sister Mary Frances - of the Sisters of Charity. 

Our students completed a Walkathon to raise awareness for two schools that our College supports - Holy Child Jerusalem, and St Francis General, Cambodia. Two schools very similar to what our own College was like when it started just over 200 Years ago - a place to look after some of the most vulnerable, and give opportunities for a brighter future. 

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 36

Next

MOTHER'S DAY MASS AND MORNING TEA
It was lovely to be joined by so many mothers, grandmothers, mother figures and other family members at our Mother’s Day Mass and Morning Tea. Our College patroness – Mary – is known for being the mother of Jesus, so at the very heart of our College charism is motherhood and the fine example of strength, care and courage this role displays for our students. I am particularly grateful for the video presentation that our Family Educator, Mrs Angela Mills, put together. This was a beautiful reflection by some of our students on how much their mothers mean to them. We look forward to our Father’s Day Mass and breakfast on 5 September at 8am. 

NEW COLLEGE HYMN
St Mary’s day was the first time our new College hymn was sung. While we are still getting to know the tune, we were led by our Cathedral Choir at the Mass and look forward to singing it again as a whole College at the Town Hall Concert. The lyrics – written by our Student Parliament – are below. 

O Christ, our Lord and Saviour blest,
Our King, our hope, our surest rest.
Uphold us with your strength and might,
And lead us in your heavenly light.

O Help of Christians, be our guide
To bear your name with love and pride.
With hearts so brave and ever true
We place our trust alone in you.

Teach us, O Lord, to walk as Saints:
Both pure in heart and strong in faith.
Unite us in your boundless love,
And lead us to our home above.

In Christ we place our hope and trust,
We praise you, Lord, forever just.
And when our earthly way is done,
Pray for us, Mary, chosen one..

THE 10:10 PROJECT
It is great to welcome back the Sydney Catholic Schools John 10:10 Project for our Year 10 students this Year. Students are invited to participate in a series of 6 presentations and discussions about what is important for healthy relationships from a Catholic perspective. 

Students across the Sydney Archdiocese have greatly benefited from this program, and we’re fortunate to be in our third year running this course for our students.

UPCOMING EVENTS
We would like as many families as possible to attend the upcoming Walk with Christ festival and procession starting at Martin Place on Sunday 22 June. Please complete this Google Form by 12 June 2025.

Thomas Hunter, Assistant Principal: Mission

From the Family Educator

Seeing What's Always Been There
In honour of St Mary’s Day

I was lucky enough to hear Joseph Pearce speak about the pursuit of truth, beauty and goodness at the heart of a liberal arts education. He said something that has stayed with me, 

“We see things so often, we don’t see them at all.” 

It has stayed with me because it  feels so true in the context of parenting. 

If we’re lucky, we see our kids every day. Packing their bags. Asking what’s for dinner. Struggling through homework. Wrestling with friendships. Leaving their clothes where they shouldn’t. Grunting at their siblings and at us. We’re right there in the thick of it with them. And because we’re so close to it all, we sometimes stop noticing what’s actually changing.

But every now and then, we might catch a glimpse.

Last week one of my children did something. Small progress, something that might have meant nothing to anyone else but for them it was something they had been struggling with for a while.  I almost missed it but they didn’t. They recognised the growth and it made me pause and think…

It made me wonder how much we’re all missing. How much quiet progress our children are making every day that goes unseen. Not because it isn’t happening, but because we’re rushing, overwhelmed, hoping for more than what’s reasonable right now. 

We are five weeks out from the end of term. The days are colder, the kids are tired, we’re tired, and everything feels a little heavier than usual. But maybe in this second half of term we can slow down just enough to notice. To look again. Not for perfect behaviour or big achievements but for the moments where our children try. It might be that they manage their frustration better, even for a short time. It might be a word rather than a grunt. It could be a, “that was so hard but I did it.” It could be that we’re the ones saying it too. 

Mary, our school’s patroness, teaches us how to see. She noticed what others missed. She saw the divine in the ordinary. An angel in her kitchen, her son in a crowd, grace in silence and sorrow. She pondered things deeply, even when they didn’t make sense. She stayed present through both joy and pain.

If we can learn to see as Mary sees, with stillness, humility, and faith, we might just find that our homes, too, are full of sacred moments hidden in the ordinary.

So for the rest of the term, we ask for Mary’s eyes:
To notice what’s growing.
To treasure what’s changing.
To see what’s always been there right in front of us.

KEEP SENDING YOUR INTENTIONS - WE'RE STILL PRAYING
Although May has come to an end, our commitment to prayer continues. As a Marian school we will keep praying the Rosary together each week for the rest of the year. We invite our families to continue sending in prayer intentions. Whether it’s for someone who is sick, a challenge at home or a quiet hope on your heart, we will include them in our prayers. There is so much power in prayer especially when it is shared in community. 

WRAP WITH LOVE - Call for Knitting Needles and Wool/Yarn
We’re excited to launch a knitting club at school to help create squares which will become blankets and other warm items for those in need as the coldest months set in. This is a beautiful way for students to learn a new skill while giving back to the community. 

If you have any spare knitting needles sizes 4-8 or balls of yarn/wool at home that you’d be happy to donate, we’d be so grateful. All donations can be dropped off at the school office.

Thank you for helping us wrap others in warmth and love. 

PARENT PILGRIMAGES
The Jubilee Year invites us to reflect on the theme of pilgrimage - a journey of faith, hope, and renewal. With this in mind, SCS has developed three beautiful offerings for parents in 2025: two pilgrimages and one Advent retreat.

These events are a valuable opportunity for parents to pause, encounter Christ, and renew their spiritual lives.

Please register via the event flyer or email angela.mills@syd.catholic.edu.au

Angela Mills, Family Educator 

STUDENTS' PERSONAL PILGRIMAGE TO ROME
During the holidays, two of our Year 10 students embarked on a once in a lifetime pilgrimage to Rome to witness the canonisation of Blessed Carlo Acutis, a young saint whose life of faith and love for the Eucharist has inspired millions. But just as they arrived in Rome they receive the unexpected and historic news that the Pope had passed away. 

Here is a taste for their unforgettable experience in their words.

THE WAY OF THE HEART RETREAT - 24 June 2025
I am so excited to be able to offer a beautiful art retreat experience for our parents on 24 June from 10am - 1pm. Join us for a mindfulness prayer walk, beginning at St Mary’s Cathedral and continuing through to the Art Gallery, where we will reflect on a curated collection of artwork. Please see flyer. Please note that we can only accommodate 4 parents for this session. If you are interested please RSVP as soon as possible here. If there is strong interest, we'll be offering additional sessions in the future. 

From the Assistant Principal: Senior School

Dear Parents, Carers, Staff and Students,

SENIOR SCHOOL CO-CURRICULAR ASSEMBLY
Earlier this term we conducted our first co-curricular Assembly for the year. Students in the senior school were recognised and presented with their blazer badges for involvement in a variety of pursuits. We recognised achievement in the summer and autumn sports seasons, excellence in musicianship for our students involved in ensembles, our courageous public speakers and students who have engaged in the service of others.

Excellence in various fields is the hallmark of a strong community, and our students at St Mary’s Cathedral College showcase their gifts and talents, demonstrating a strong commitment to school spirit. Ultimately, success at school is determined by the level of involvement. This is demonstrated through the sheer number of students recognised for their outstanding involvement across the broad cross section of co curricular opportunities.

Assemblies like these are an integral part of our Phronesis Character Education Program. They address essential virtues that lead to human flourishing. Below is an excerpt of my address to the students during this assembly:

YEAR 12 ACADEMIC ASSEMBLY
During Week Three we held our Year 12 Semester 1 Academic Assembly. It was a wonderful occasion to congratulate our Year 12 students on their achievements halfway through the HSC year. Students were recognised through two awards. The Academic Excellence Award recognises the student currently in first place in each course for  the HSC assessment program to date. The Academic Application award recognises a student from each class who has demonstrated ongoing diligence and effort throughout the semester. 

Following the semester academic period, students engaged in a phronesis lesson during which they analysed their results and looked for growth opportunities. There is plenty of room for growth as we move towards the Trial HSC in Term 3 and the final exams at the end of year. Teachers are continuing to work hard with their Year 12 classes to ensure positive learning is occurring and we continue to maintain high expectations for all our students. 

ACADEMIC TUTORING PROGRAM
The academic tutoring program has been most popular with students in Year 11 and 12 this year. We have had record numbers of students engage with this initiative. We are pleased to announce that this term we have further expanded the program to our Year 10 students. Tutoring runs each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 3:15pm-6pm in the College library. Students are able to seek assistance with assessment tasks and homework as well as revise key concepts in any of their subjects. We employ over 10 alumini tutors across each week to support the academic progress of our students. Please encourage your son to avail themselves of this service should they require extra support for their learning. 

YEAR 10 “SET UP FOR SUCCESS” DAY
Last week we conducted our “Set Up for Success” Day with our Year 10 students. As they embark on the important discernment process for their Stage 6 pathway, the students engaged in a variety of presentations and workshops to assist in laying  the strong foundations for success. Another critical feature of our Phronesis Character Education Program, this day allows for strategic and cognitive  planning that allows for students to be fully immersed in critical decision making. Students also analysed data points from Academic Assessment Services Testing to set goals. This will contribute to their decision making process diary over the follow up phronesis sessions that will provide students the opportunity to extrapolate their preferred pathway for stage 6.  Ultimately each student's pathway is different and it is important they are given the skills to choose a pathway that is right for them. Critical to the success of the day was the input provided by current and former HSC students in an impressive Q&A panel that showcased the diverse opportunities available to students at SMCC to grow in their learning and ultimately demonstrate success: whatever that may look like. 

TRAVELLING TO AND FROM SCHOOL - Road Safety
There is increasing concern about the near trance-like state people can apparently enter while using mobile phones and or headphones. Psychologists call this ‘divided attention’ or ‘inattentional blindness’.

Looking at the mobile phone screen or being distracted by sound coming through headphones can make a pedestrian forget about looking out for cars and miss sounds that could warn of danger and approaching traffic. If your child uses these devices, talk about these safety tips;

• Put your mobile phone away when you are on your way walking, to reduce distractions.
• Be alert! Always stop, look, listen and think before stepping out onto the road.
• Check for vehicles entering and leaving driveways.
• Don’t answer text messages while crossing a road. 

For those who rely on public buses as their mode of transportation, we want to highlight three critical pedestrian safety messages:

1. Stand Well Away from the Kerb When Waiting for the Bus: When waiting for the school bus, it's essential to stand well away from the edge of the road. This ensures your safety by providing a buffer zone between you and passing vehicles. Stand back from the curb, ideally at least three big steps away, until the bus comes to a complete stop.
2. Wait Till the Bus Has Gone and Then Use a Safe Place to Cross: After exiting the school bus, it's important to wait until the bus has departed before attempting to cross the road. Once the bus has left, use a designated crossing. Never attempt to cross in front of the bus or between parked cars. 
3. STOP LOOK LISTEN THINK every time you cross the road: Before crossing, look out before you step out, don’t assume drivers will always stop for you and check that the driver has stopped before stepping out.

By following these three safety messages, students who travel by school bus can minimise the risk of accidents and ensure a safe journey to and from school.

We encourage all students, regardless of their mode of transportation, to stay safe. 

ANNUAL CONCERT
Rehearsals are well underway for our Annual Concert. This longstanding College tradition is an event we look forward to. This year promises to be bigger and better than ever with the concert reflecting our College theme for 2025 of UNITY.

As we move towards this event, I would like to remind everyone that it is a compulsory school event and that if a student is unable to attend, a doctor’s certificate is provided explaining their absence.

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING DAY
We would like to remind everyone that we are holding a Professional Learning Day for our staff on Friday, 6 June 2025. As gazetted on the College calendar, this will be a pupil free day. Staff will be engaged in a series of workshops that focus on the use of Artificial Intelligence in pedagogical practice, assessment and learning. An expert in this field from Macquarie University has been engaged to support the staff on this day.

Chris Maoudis, Assistant Principal: Senior School

From the Assistant Principal: Middle School

Our Middle School students have been involved in many school initiatives since returning for Term 2 including St Mary’s Day, Mother’s Day Mass, Co-Curricular Assembly, the Year 8 Vertikal Integrated Learning project, Debating, and Representative Sport.

The Middle School community has been buzzing with excitement as students continue to demonstrate outstanding dedication to both academic and co-curricular pursuits. Engagement levels in lessons are high and we are working towards Semester 1 reports at the end of term. Rehearsal for our Annual Concert in the Town Hall has begun and we are all looking forward to a spectacular evening.

This term’s Co-Curricular Assembly was a wonderful showcase of talent and commitment, highlighting achievements across a wide range of activities, from debating and public speaking to music and sports. Special recognition was given to students who have excelled in leadership roles, embodying the College’s spirit of resilience and collaboration.

Another highlight has been the incredible work happening in the Year 8 Vertikal Integrated Learning Project. This innovative approach to education blends multiple disciplines, allowing students to think critically, problem-solve, and engage in meaningful inquiry. Their recent projects demonstrated a deep understanding of historical narratives, ethical reasoning, and real-world connections—truly reflecting the College’s emphasis on holistic and transformative education.

With such enthusiasm and dedication across the Middle School, the future looks bright. The community’s ongoing support ensures that students continue to flourish, gaining skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. Congratulations to all involved—your hard work and passion make St Mary’s Cathedral College a truly inspiring place to learn and grow.

POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR EXPECTATIONS
At St Mary’s Cathedral College, we take pride in fostering a culture of respect, discipline, and excellence. As part of this commitment, our behaviour, uniform and grooming standards play an essential role in promoting a sense of unity and belonging among students.

We have observed that a number of Middle School students are not consistently meeting the College’s uniform and grooming expectations. Specifically, we have noticed instances where students are wearing bracelets, which are not permitted under College policy. Religious or otherwise, they are not part of College uniform. 

The hair policy has never been more clearer at St Mary’s and whilst the trends of hair fashion change, allowing for some minor adjustments to the policy at times, the expectations around length and style of hair are well communicated. It is extremely disappointing that students are deliberately choosing to cut their hair in contravention to our expectations. 

We kindly ask for your support in reinforcing these expectations with your child. Ensuring adherence to behaviour, uniform and grooming standards helps maintain the integrity of our College community and encourages students to take pride in their presentation.

We appreciate your cooperation in this matter. Thank you for your ongoing support in upholding the expectations of our great school as you have done since signing the enrolment form on behalf of your child, acknowledging the school’s commitment to these expectations.

Be Faithful. Be Kind. Be Engaged.

David Timillero, Assistant Principal: Middle School

From the Assistant Principal: Junior School

What a wonderfully busy and engaging first half of Term 2 it has been for our Junior School students!
Take a look at some of the exciting learning and exploration that has taken place so far this term…

NATIONAL SIMULTANEOUS STORYTIME
Last Wednesday, our K-4 students joined millions of children across Australia in the much-loved annual event, National Simultaneous Storytime! At 12pm precisely, everyone gathered to share the highly anticipated book, The Truck Cat, written by Deborah Frenkel. It was truly wonderful to see so many eager faces listening intently and joining in, in a guided drawing activity from the illustrator, Danny Snell. This event is a fantastic way to promote literacy, inspire a love of reading and highlight the importance of libraries and books in our community.

KINDERGARTEN: MASTERING EMOTIONS, BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS!
Our Kindergarten students continue their Phronesis learning, our Character Education program, focusing this fortnight on the skill of understanding emotions. Through engaging activities, they've been learning to identify feelings in themselves and others, building resilience by recognising emotions as natural and ever-changing. This exploration encourages the development of communication skills and promotes understanding and empathy, as recognising how others feel strengthens friendships. See their wonderful work in the photos below!

EXPLORING AREA WITH OUR STAGE 1 MATHEMATICIANS!
Stage 1 has been embarking on a hands-on adventure in measurement this week! Students have been learning about how we can measure the area of surfaces in our classroom. To bring this concept to life, students explored the area of a home reader using a variety of objects, from post-it notes of different sizes to unifix cubes. Through trial and discussion, they discovered how the choice of unit affects the accuracy of the measurement. Stage 1 worked meticulously to ensure their chosen unit covered the surface in neat rows or columns without gaps or overlaps. We had fun experimenting, comparing results, and thinking critically about the way we measure the world around us.

YEAR 3 FRACTION FUN!
Our Year 3 students have been busy consolidating their learning about fractions in a fun and engaging way this week. To bring their knowledge to life, they took part in an exciting fractions-themed scavenger hunt! Working together, students searched for numbered clues, solved fraction challenges and applied their understanding in real-world contexts. It was a fantastic opportunity to reinforce their skills while building teamwork and problem-solving abilities, all with big smiles and lots of enthusiasm!

YEAR 4: QUADRANT OF CURIOSITY UNLOCKED!
Year 4 recently explored the Question Quadrant, a thinking tool that fits within our school's Liberated Arts approach. Based on Philip Cam’s work, it helps students sort questions by their depth and purpose, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking. Using an excerpt from Winnie the Pooh, they identified different types of questions; factual, philosophical, speculative, and debatable- sparking great discussions. This hands-on activity built their analytical skills and love for learning and we look forward to more opportunities to dive deeper into big ideas!

As we move into the second half of the term, we look forward to many other exciting opportunities and upcoming events in the Junior School.

Suzanne Georgiou, Assistant Principal: Junior School

From the Assistant Principal: Liberal Arts

Our  Student Parliament recently played a pivotal role in shaping an exciting initiative spearheaded by our Year 8 students – the creation of a Green Vertical Wall! As part of their Term 2 Integrated Learning Project, the Year 8 cohort is diving deep into the connection between our surroundings and our wellbeing. To ensure this project truly reflects the needs and desires of the entire student body, they gathered student voice through a comprehensive survey.

This valuable data provided the Year 8 students with a rich understanding of how students across all year levels, from Kindergarten to Year 12, perceive the link between the school environment and their overall wellbeing. Imagine the insightful perspectives shared, helping to inform the design and features of this upcoming green space!

Beyond contributing to this innovative project, the Student Parliament also provided crucial feedback to the College Leadership Team on a range of significant learning initiatives implemented over the past two years. This included thoughtful reflections on Phronesis, the introduction of New Stage 5 Electives, the dynamic Year 8 Integrated Learning Projects, and the exciting expansion of our college to become a K-12 coeducational institution. This direct line of communication ensures that student perspectives are not only heard but actively considered in the ongoing evolution of our school.

Our Phronesis program continues to weave its way through the fabric of our learning across all year levels, fostering essential life skills and a deeper understanding of ourselves and our community.

In the Junior School, the focus has been on nurturing respectful communication. Our youngest learners are developing the skills to express themselves clearly and considerately, building a foundation for positive interactions throughout their schooling journey.

The Middle School has been actively engaged in developing mental fitness and goal setting. Students have been exploring strategies to build resilience, manage their wellbeing, and set meaningful goals that empower them to strive for success.

Meanwhile, the Senior School has been concentrating on planning for the future and contemplating what it means to leave a legacy. This encourages our senior students to think critically about their impact and the steps they can take to achieve their aspirations.

A key component of this in the Senior School is the Year 10 Setting Up for Success program. This dedicated initiative is designed to equip our Year 10 students with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions about their subject selections for the senior years, setting them on a positive pathway for their future academic pursuits.

Belinda VanderGert, Assistant Principal: Liberal Arts

From the Leader of Curriculum & Assessment

YEAR 10 SUBJECT SELECTION

SUBJECT INFORMATION DAY
Year 10 students are in the process of choosing their subject for Years 11 and 12. A letter was sent out earlier this term to students and parents/carers detailing the timeline for this process. On Tuesday, 10 June (Day 2) Teachers will run 20-minute information sessions during periods 3-5 and students can attend nine separate Subject Information sessions to make more informed decisions around subject selection.

PARENT INFORMATION EVENING
On Wednesday, 11 June, a Parent Information Session on Year 11 and 12 Subject Selection for 2026/27 will take place in the school hall between 6 pm and 7 pm.

This is a compulsory event, and every student in Year 10 is expected to attend with at least one parent. Each student will receive a subject selection handbook, and you will have an opportunity to meet with Instructional Leaders of Learning at the end of the presentations from the Principal, Assistant Principal of Senior School, Leader of Curriculum and Assessment, and the Leader of Pathways and Partnerships. 

 This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about your child's pathways next year and beyond.

HSC PREPARATION

The 2025 HSC Written Examination Timetable is now available online.

The 2025 HSC examination timetable is now available as a PDF and on the NESA website. Year 12  students can view their personal timetable via their Students Online account. It is expected that Year 12 students have checked that they can effectively access Students Online and their examination timetable to ensure that all their examinations appear correctly. Any student with a concern regarding either their online access or their HSC Timetable must notify Ms Ung promptly. 

2024 HSC: WHAT THE MARKERS SAID!
Marking feedback from the 2024 HSC marking centres is now available for every examination paper via the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) website. 

Students will find each subject is well-supported by NESA resources, including the 2024 HSC examination paper, marking guidelines and marking feedback. Each subject examination pack is a valuable study resource for the current cohort of HSC students preparing for the 2025 examinations. The feedback also includes an overview of the features of the top responses.

GRADEO NOW AVAILABLE FOR YEAR 12 STUDENTS
Our college has recently partnered with Gradeo, a powerful online platform designed to support Year 12 students as they prepare for the upcoming Trial and HSC exams.

Gradeo provides students with:

• Access to teacher-created quizzes, exams, and past papers
• Interactive learning materials tailored to HSC subjects
• Tools to track progress and identify areas for improvement
• The ability to create personalised revision quizzes by topic

Students are especially encouraged to take advantage of Gradeo’s quiz builder, which allows them to create their own practice quizzes using a bank of past CSSA and Independent Trial exam questions—a great way to target specific topics and refine exam technique.

Teachers will be sharing key resources through Gradeo, so it is important that all students activate their accounts. An email with setup instructions was sent directly from Gradeo—please check your inbox and follow the steps to get started. You will not be able to access class materials until your account is set up.

If you have any questions or run into issues, please reach out to Ms Ung.

Anne Ung, Leader of Curriculum and Assessment 

From the Leader of Wellbeing

In our fast-paced digital world, technology is prominent and integrated into our daily activities more than ever before. This makes it crucial for parents to be actively involved in their children's digital lives. From Kindergarten to Year 12, technology shapes how our children learn, play, and connect. By showing an ongoing interest in their online interactions, you can help your child/teen navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. Understanding  the platforms they use, discussing online etiquette, and alerting them to the potential risks in online interactions opens communication and fosters resilience and critical thinking. We encourage you to explore the valuable resources provided by the Black Dog Institute, which offer further guidance and support in nurturing your child's positive digital citizenship.

Kathleen McGrath,  Leader of Wellbeing

From Religious Education

YEAR 11 STUDIES OF RELIGION EXCURSION
Our Studies of Religion excursion to the many different Christian denominations was an insightful and eye-opening experience for us in the general contexts of our lives. This deep-dive into differing worldviews provided my peers and I with the opportunity to consider other belief systems and compare them with our own. Getting to speak and ask questions directly with the different Church leaders was vital for acquiring knowledge for our upcoming essay without any misinformation or falsehoods. 

Our ability to physically step into these places of worship and observe their unique atmospheres —from the inclusivity of a Uniting Church to the vibrant community-driven reverence of the Orthodox Church— added layers of understanding that no textbook could provide. Beyond simply gathering information for our upcoming task, the excursion encouraged our own personal reflection and broadened our perspectives, fostering respect and curiosity for beliefs beyond our own.

It reminded us all that, despite our differences in practice, a common thread of faith and community runs through each denomination, uniting believers under the broader umbrella of Christianity. A personal highlight for me would be our visit to the St Sophia and the Three Daughters Greek Orthodox Church in Darlinghurst where Fr Irenaeus Triantis provided both an entertaining and informative talk about the Orthodox Church, answering all of our questions, and allowing a very comfortable and friendly insight into his community. 

This excursion was constructive for me by helping me build a nuanced understanding of the different denominations by forming connections with the different ministers, as opposed to just experiencing this understanding in the classroom. This excursion reinforced the importance of understanding religious diversity through firsthand experiences, encouraging open-mindedness and thoughtful dialogue. 

Overall, it was a valuable journey that deepened our appreciation for different Christian denominations and their role in shaping and outlooks.

Enzo Calabria - Year 11

YEAR 11 STUDIES IN CATHOLIC THOUGHT EXCURSION
On Friday, 16 May, I took part in an excursion with my class where we visited four significant Catholic churches around Sydney to explore how the Holy Trinity and the dual nature of Jesus are represented in art and architecture. It was a great opportunity to see in person what we’ve been learning about in class.

We began at St Patrick's Cathedral in Parramatta. It's a large and modern-looking structure on the exterior, but once we went inside, it was peaceful and reflective in atmosphere. I noticed a stained-glass window on one side of the altar that showed the Holy Spirit as a dove and light pouring down from heaven, this clearly represented part of the Trinity. The massive crucifix made me also recall the human suffering of Jesus, which helped me reflect on his human nature.

Afterwards, we headed into the city to St Patrick's Church Hill. This church appeared much older and more traditional. It employed darker lighting and contained wooden pews that made it more visually historical. There were some subtle representations of the Trinity in the stained-glass windows, one of which showed God the Father, Jesus the Son on the cross, and the Holy Spirit again shown as a dove. The manner in which all of them were fitted into one picture made the unity of the Trinity clearer to me.

Our third church was St Benedict's at Broadway. This too had a strong sense of history. Imagery here was slightly more abstract, though there were definitely images of Jesus' divine aspect, especially in the way he was shown in some of the paintings with a glowing halo and royal robes. It made me remember that Jesus is fully God, not just human.

The final church we visited was St Peter Julian's in the city. The church is renowned for its basis on the Eucharist, and the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament was a large focus. There was a very powerful spiritual feel in here. The artwork above the altar depicted Jesus in glory, and once again the Holy Spirit as a dove surrounded by light. It was a really powerful reminder of the divine nature of Jesus and the way the Trinity works together.

Throughout the day, I took pictures of different representations to help with our class assignment, and it was interesting to see that each church had made their own representation of these fundamental beliefs of our faith. Some were overt, some more subtle or symbolic. To see them close up made the concepts we have studied feel much more real and meaningful.

Willem Graves, Year 11

Debating and Public Speaking

DEBATING
So far during this season, we as a team have learnt lessons in regards to learning the ropes of debating and patience. I speak on behalf of my entire Year 10 team including reserves that we are greatly thankful for the support and guidance of our debating staff, including Mrs Claxton-Fante, Mr Taylor, and Mr Greguric. Their help has been invaluable to us and is a key part of our success in this year’s season. Part of this has included the very start of our debating journeys for me, and my fellow debater Phillip. So over the course of the last 8 weeks, we have learnt the basics of how to construct arguments, structure refutations, and how to properly curate our speeches correctly. While this program has helped us as critical thinkers and listeners, it has also given us invaluable experience in the realm of public speaking. 

Our season started with nerves but a point to prove, as we opened our campaign against Marist Catholic College North Shore. While we were inexperienced, our instincts and coaching, helped us formulate a performance that was indeed good enough to triumph over Marist North Shore. Our second debate was against Waverley College. We were walking in, our round 1 victory fresh in our minds; however we did not let this give us unrealistic confidence in regards to round 2’s result. With a little more experience, we were once again, able to gain victory over Waverley College, rounded out the school term. 

Our next debate was in week 1 of term 2 against St Scholastica's College, our first debate at home. Now that we had won two debates in a row, it was no longer a matter of simply gaining experience, we had greater aspirations as to where this season might lead us. So, by sticking to the simple structure and fundamentals, we were once again, able to triumph over St Scholastica's College and look forward to the week ahead. Round 4 would be the ultimate litmus test for us, were we a team that would simply bow out after a couple of wins, or were we a team that had true aspirations for debating in finals, even if some of our team members were in their first year. Brigidine College Randwick were undefeated heading into this week’s debate, same as our team. Both teams wanting to progress further in their respective campaigns. However, due to determination, and executing all of our roles, we were able to add another win to our season, putting us into serious finals contention. Our final debate was at Corpus Christi College in Maroubra. Due to circumstances, we were pitted against the year 7 students of the College. A debate in which we would go on to win. I am thankful for the Corpus student’s bravery and courage during this time, as this was undoubtedly a difficult experience for Year 7 students. I am also thankful to the school, even though they could not organise an all Year 10 affair, they allowed us still to have a debate that was beneficial for both sides. 

A round 6 bye rounded out the season for us. 5 wins, 0 losses and the additional win we received from the bye week. Even though we had new debaters to the program, we were able to adapt quickly, learn the ropes and construct a great season where we have qualified for finals, with aspirations to go further. Lastly, I would like to thank my fellow debaters and everyone involved in this year’s team. This experience has been fruitful in many ways and I hope it grows to progress even further.

Owen Mamo, Year 10 Second Speaker

MODEL UN

Pacem in Terris Gratias Nationibus Unitis
Peace on Earth thanks to Model UN

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 12

Next

From Science

YEAR 11 INVESTIGATING SCIENCE - TARONGA ZOO
On Friday, 9 May 2025, our Year 11 Investigating Science students took part in an exciting and enriching excursion to Taronga Zoo as part of their Observing Animal Behaviour Depth Study. This hands-on learning experience immersed students in the process of scientific investigation through direct observation of animal behaviour. With over 4000 animals in care, Taronga Zoo provided an ideal environment for students to plan, observe and record behavioural data under the guidance of zoo scientists and educators. The excursion focused on the importance of observation as a foundation of scientific inquiry, highlighting how behavioural data supports hypothesis testing and promotes animal wellbeing and conservation efforts. 

Students gained valuable insights into primary data collection methods and experienced the role of scientists in real-world contexts. The following is a reflection by Santiago Zurita Honig, Austin Alcera, and Jayden Park, about their experience on the day: 

Monica Zanuttini & Mithun Vaghela, Year 11 Investigating Science Teachers

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 12

Next

From Creative and Performing Arts

On 8 May,  our Year 11 Drama students visited the National Institute for Dramatic Arts (NIDA) to support their classmate, Lewis Crispin, in his performance in Voice in Virtue, a partnership between Sydney Catholic Schools and NIDA. Starring students from across Sydney Catholic Schools, Voice in Virtue is an original show featuring six vignettes which seek to answer “What is truth, beauty and goodness in the contemporary world?”. Our Year 11 students were excited to see Lewis play multiple roles across the performances, as well as star in a monologue. 

We congratulate Lewis for this outstanding achievement, and extend these congratulations to all of the other students and staff involved. They all worked together to put on a fantastic show. 

Bilynda Palmer,  Drama Teacher

CONCERT POSTER COMPETITION
This year SMCC are running a competition for the art work (i.e., poster & program cover) for the annual SMCC Town Hall Concert on Friday 27 June.

This competition is OPEN to all interested students:

Inspiration can be drawn from the three songs in the Finale medley: Unity, Where is the Love? We are the World (all songs on Google Classroom folder which has been shared with students - Google Classroom code - l7jmrf74). The following words may also provide some inspiration: commonality, togetherness, community, inclusivity, hope, peace, love.

Your poster design could be done by drawing, painting, collage or graphics like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Canva or a combination of any of these.

Past Town Hall concert posters are located in the Music Wing on the walls and in the foyer of the College Hall auditorium if you would like to look at them.

You may include more than one entry.

Any further questions please see Ms Marshall OR Dr Roberts.

Good luck to all participants!

Michele Marshall,  Instructional Leader of Creative & Performing Arts (Years 3-12)

From TAS

VET STUDENTS LAYING FOUNDATIONS FOR SUCCESS!
Last week, our Vocational Education and Training (VET) students have been incredibly busy, demonstrating their dedication and hard work in their respective fields.

Our VET Construction students have been hands-on, honing their practical skills and building a strong understanding of the construction industry. From safety protocols to structural elements, they're laying the groundwork for promising careers.

Meanwhile, our VET Financial Services students have been diving deep into the world of finance. They're gaining valuable insights into economic principles, financial markets, and client services, preparing them for future roles in this dynamic sector.

It's fantastic to see the commitment and enthusiasm our VET students bring to their studies. They're not just learning theory; they're gaining real-world experience that will set them up for success beyond the classroom.

James King, Instructional Leader VET (Years 9-12)

Year 7 Camp

We are thrilled to share the incredible experiences and remarkable growth witnessed during the recent Year 7 camp at The Great Aussie Bush Camp, Lake Macquarie. This adventure proved to be a pivotal moment for our students, providing a unique platform for them to build essential skills and forge lasting connections.

Throughout the camp, our students embraced a diverse range of challenges with incredible enthusiasm. They soared through the air on the Dual Flying Fox, conquered their fears on the High Ropes, experienced exhilarating drops on the Giant Swing, and honed their precision with Archery and Fencing. Beyond individual feats, activities like Gully Crossing, Survivor Challenge and Games night were instrumental in fostering exceptional teamwork and camaraderie among their peers.

This immersive experience extended far beyond physical challenges. It's clear that the camp has left an indelible mark on their personal development, cultivating stronger friendships and significantly enhancing their abilities to collaborate effectively. We are immensely proud of every student's achievements and eagerly anticipate witnessing their continued growth and development throughout their academic journey with us.

A huge thanks to all the teachers involved, without whom this would not have been possible; Mr Soo, Ms V. Williams, Ms McGrath, Ms Radoczy, Mr Kichkin, Mr Taylor, Mr Ryan, Mr Spaccucci and Ms Sheehy.

Máire Sheehy,  Year 7 Instructional Leader of Wellbeing

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 23

Next

From Year 5

YEAR FIVE OPTUS EXCURSION
On 29 April, Year 5 went to the Optus Satellite Station in Belrose. Year 5 arrived at Optus’ doorsteps at around 11 o'clock. Then one of the Optus staff members introduced us to the Satellite  Station. We then went inside and the guide showed us models of rockets and satellites that had previously been used. We then went on a tour of the satellite farm. After the tour the guide showed us the computer room that had a lot of channels and tv shows on the large screens, this was to check if the signal people receive on their home TV was working correctly and because the satellites connect people to these channels. After the tour of Optus an employee from the company Fizzics showed us some incredible and fascinating experiments including fire and electromagnetic forces. In the end we had a lot of fun that day and we received gift bags kindly from our tour guide.

Alex O, Samuel Z and William S

RECOUNT OF DA VINCI DECATHLON
On 22 May, Da Vinci Decathlon began at 8 o'clock in the morning. It was an exhilarating day for all the eight students and teachers. The teachers were Miss Mascera and Ms Schwedes and the students were Zoe. P, William. O, Isabella. S, Maggie. H, Alex. O, Luke. L, Thomas. C and Alex. H. There were 69 groups with an average of eight people per team from all over the state and every group in the Da Vinci Decathlon was either in year five or year six. All of the eight students in the St Mary’s group tried their hardest and did exceptionally well but still didn’t come 1st, 2nd or 3rd.

The subjects that were included in the Da Vinci Decathlon were Maths, Art and Poetry, Science, Ideation, Code breaking, Cartography, Creative Producers, English, Engineering and Legacy. The problems were problematic and arduous  in every subject and It emphasized collegiality and problem solving.

When we entered the school it was ginormous and we almost got lost. It had three campuses. It has a wide range of teaching styles and different subjects we could clearly see it was a private school and is an only boys school. 

In summary, this was a thrilling day for all the children who participated in the Da Vinci Decathlon, involving collegiality discussions and very difficult subjects. 

Zoe P and William O

Sport News

SCS FOOTBALL, LEAGUE & NETBALL  

Round 1

*Unfortunately all other rounds have been washed out

CONFERENCE 1 TABLE TENNIS
The Conference 1 Table Tennis Gala Day was held at Hurstville Aquatic Centre in Week 2. This is always a popular event at Cathedral, and Cathedral entered 11 teams across three divisions. Congratulations to the following teams, for winning their division and progressing to the Sydney Table Tennis Championships:

SCS CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS
The SCS Cross Country Championships were held at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre on Tuesday, 20 May. After a week of solid rain we were fortunate enough that there was a break in the weather long enough to hold the event. Cathedral recorded some great results, winning the Intermediate and Senior age groups.  

Congratulations to the following students who have progressed through to the NSWCCC Cross Country Championships:

U14       Jacob Sousa                                  Silver in Conference 1 and 9th overall
U16       Alessandro De Jesus                     Bronze in Conference 1 and 15th overall
U17       Raj Naidu                                     Gold in Conference 1 and 5th overall
U17       Charles Woods                              Bronze in Conference 1 and 7th overall
18+        Alex Clark                                    6th in Conference 1 and 9th overall
18+        Rory Reed                                    Silver in Conference 1 and 2nd overall

NSW ALL SCHOOLS SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS
The NSW All Schools Swimming Championships were held in Week 4 at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. Impressively, Cathedral had 8 members representing at the event, which is easily the largest team we have entered. The team did themselves and the College proud, trying their best, encouraging their teammates, and even breaking a few personal bests. Well done to the College swimming team on an outstanding season in the pool!

INDIVIDUAL SUCCESS
Joseph Frances has been selected to play hockey in the U18 SEHA team at the State Hockey Championships. This is a tremendous achievement for Joseph, and we wish him the best of luck in the competition.

Simon Shaw, Instructional Leader Co-curricular/Sport

From the Community

TELL THEM FROM ME SURVEY

2025 NSW STATE JUNIOR SNOOKER & BILLIARDS CHAMPIONSHIPS
Jason Yu (Vaughan, Year 11) dominated the NSW Junior Championships on 27 April 2025, sweeping all three junior titles.

NSW MACKILLOP TRIALS
Arabella competed in the NSW MacKillop Trials in Canberra early May, and was selected for the Possibles and Probables—placing her in the top 20 out of 40 girls across the both Canberra and NSW. While she didn’t make the final top 10 team, we are incredibly proud of how she represented St Mary's Cathedral College at the Sydney Catholic Schools.

TRANSPORT NSW:  SCHOOL OPAL CARDS

Please click  HERE for guidelines for using the school Opal Card

Library News

PREMIER'S READING CHALLENGE
The Premier's Reading Challenge, a long-running initiative that fosters reading and information literacy, is now open to students from Kindergarten to Year 9. All students have been registered with the competition. There is a video here that explains the rationale and the process of logging books. 

Students in the Junior School should speak to their teacher to obtain their username and password. (All passwords from previous years have been reset.) Other students can speak to their English teacher or see a member of the library staff. Once they have this information, login at the PRC site. Any student with further questions should see me. 

Challenge closes to students: Friday, 19 September 2025 (date has been extended)

Edward Hawkins, Teacher-Librarian

Upcoming Dates