Did You Know?

Did you know that each College newsletter can be translated into a large range of languages (over 100!)?

Have a look at the top of this newsletter,  look for the heading “translate” and then use the dropdown menu to choose the language of your choice.

Be sure to tell you fellow parents/carers and/or community members about this.

Pick Up & Kiss and Drop

The College has recently applied for additional pedestrian crossing supervisors for the new pedestrian crossings on Vinny and Guillemont Roads. Fingers crossed these will be made available in the near future. Until that time, the current traffic, drop off and collection arrangements will remain.

Please help us to protect our young people travelling to and from our College. Use your common sense, follow the road rules and let’s be kind to one another.

CSDA Public Speaking

I would like to commend our students who have recently competed and are still competing in the Catholic Schools Debating Association Public Speaking Competition.

A number of rounds are held against students from Catholic Schools from Broken Bay, Sydney, Parramatta and Wollongong and we have had wonderful success with Abigail P and Elyssa S (Year 7); Abner A (Year 8); Olugbemisola F and Ethan Z (Year 9) and Asher A (Year 10) all making it to the Qualifying final against a strong field.

From there three students Abigail P (Year 7), Abner A (Year 8) and Asher A (Year 10) have all progressed to the Grand Final to be held tonight. A tremendous achievement!

I thank Ms Tanya Beslic for her exceptional support and guidance to the students and for being there with our College across the Competition.

We wish all of our finalists every success in tonight’s Grand Final!

Parenting Advice

Michael Grose, a leading voice in Australian parenting and education, distills big ideas into practical, down-to-earth advice. With years of experience, his relatable insights make him a trusted guide for families navigating the challenges and joys of raising children today.

In today’s newsletter (and future newsletters) I will be including his articles, summaries and tips to assist parents/carers. These are a part of the Parenting Toolbox the College has purchased for 2025.

Here is a summary of his latest article: “Five Proven Ways You Can Help Your Child Succeed at Primary School”, an article which provides a number of tips for parents/carers. The full article can be located here

1. Establish a Routine

Kids do best with structure. Set regular times for waking up, meals, homework, and bedtime to create stability. Sleep is especially crucial—consistent bedtimes and a wind-down routine improve focus and learning. Help kids balance study with breaks, and involve them in planning their routine to increase commitment.

2. Encourage a Love of Reading

Reading is the foundation for learning, so make it a priority. Read with your child daily, provide access to books, and create a reading-friendly home. Kids imitate what they see—if they see you reading, they’re more likely to read too. Dads, take note: research shows boys read more when their fathers model it.

3. Stay Connected with Teachers

A good parent/carer-teacher relationship benefits your child. Attend meetings, stay updated with school news, and address concerns early. Teachers and parents working together create the best outcomes.

4. Keep Expectations High (but Realistic)

Kids rise to the expectations set for them—but only if they’re achievable. Praise effort over results, encourage independence, and teach them to set goals and learn from mistakes. A “keep trying” attitude builds resilience and confidence.

5. Create a Positive Learning Environment

A quiet, clutter-free space dedicated to study helps kids focus. Avoid doing homework in bed to maintain good sleep habits. Provide the tools they need and encourage curiosity through hands-on learning experiences.

Final Thought

With a little structure, encouragement, and the right support at home, parents/carers can make a huge difference in their child’s success at school.

Prayer

In last week’s Opening Year and Lenten Mass I shared the ideas of Jesuit Priest Father Greg Boyle. Father Boyle from Los Angeles, has dedicated his life to working with people who were once involved in gangs. He is the founder of Homeboy Industries, which is now the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation, and re-entry program in the world.

Father Boyle has spent decades helping people who many others have written off. He believes that no one is beyond redemption. His message is clear: kindness has the power to heal, transform, and offer second chances.

In keeping with this I share the following prayer; Heavenly Father, You teach us through Your Word and example the boundless depths of Your kindness and mercy. Grant us the grace to live out Greg Boyle's call to love without condition, as You do.

May we see Your face in every person we meet, especially those who are marginalised or in need. Guide us to be instruments of Your peace, dispelling darkness with the light of Your love.

Like Your Son Jesus Christ, who showed mercy to all He encountered, help us to extend forgiveness and compassion, knowing that in serving others, we serve You.

Through the intercession of Mary, Mother of Mercy, and all the saints who have lived lives of charity, inspire us to practice radical hospitality and embrace the outcast with open arms.

In the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, may our actions speak louder than words, bringing hope where there is despair and healing where there is brokenness.

We ask this through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

St Francis of Asissi …. Pray for Us

Blessed Edmund Rice …. Pray for Us

Live Jesus in our Hearts …. Forever

Mr Matthew McMahon