ENROLMENT 2027

For any families who have children who do not attend SFCC and are in Year 5 2025, PLEASE lodge your applications NOW for Year 7 2027 if you have not already done so.

With over 450 applications for Year 7 2026 - we want to be prepared for 2027 and ensure, as much as we can, whilst also following our Diocesan Enrolment Guidelines, that families with siblings have the best opportunity for enrolment.

K-6 GRANDPARENTS DAY AND 100 DAYS OF KINDERGARTEN

Last Friday was a special day for our College community as we celebrated both K-6 Grandparents’ Day and 100 Days of Kindergarten, brought together for the first time in 2025. It was a joyful and relaxed morning for students, staff and families, especially in our Primary years.

Kindergarten marked their first 100 days of learning with a fun dress-up parade, arriving at school looking a little older and wiser — complete with grey hair, cardigans, walking sticks and plenty of smiles. It was a light-hearted and happy way to recognise just how far they’ve come in their first year of school.

Our Grandparents’ Day liturgy was a lovely chance to pause and give thanks for the love, care and support that grandparents and older carers provide. There was a great sense of pride and connection as families gathered to celebrate together.

After the liturgy and Kindy parade, visitors were invited to enjoy 'grazing on the green' and visit classrooms, where students were excited to share their work and take part in activities — including a focus on Religious Education learning. It was a simple but meaningful way to open our classrooms and showcase what happens each day in our school.

Thank you to everyone who joined us on the day and to the staff who made it all possible. Events like this are a reminder of how lucky we are to be part of such a welcoming and connected community.

A big thank you to Jennifer Lowe and Kylie Jeymour for all of their organisation and support - as well as all teachers who were involved in the day - and our wonderful Kindergarten teachers and Learning Support SSOs.

SECONDARY ATHLETICS CARNIVAL

Last Friday, we also held our annual Secondary Athletics Carnival at Campbelltown Athletics Stadium, with students from Years 7 to 12 taking part in what turned out to be a fantastic day for our community. 

Blessed with fine weather and strong attendance across the year groups, the day had a great energy from the start, helped along by a spirited and colourful showing from Year 12, who arrived in costume and brought a light-hearted and joyful presence throughout the day.

It was pleasing to see so many students involved across the full range of events, from competitive track and field to novelty and house-based activities. Tug-of-war and other fun challenges added to the atmosphere and provided opportunities for students of all abilities to join in. The carnival continues to grow not only in participation but in the quality of performances — several College Athletics Carnival records were broken, which is a real credit to the students involved.

House spirit was strong all day, with plenty of support in the stands and great cheering from across the Houses. That sense of community, along with students’ willingness to give their best, really stood out. We extend our thanks to Mrs Pavlovich for her organisation and leadership of the day, and to all staff who assisted in making the carnival such a smooth and successful event.

Congratulations to all students who have now qualified for the Diocesan Carnival — we wish them all the best in the next stage of competition.

UPCOMING CATHOLICCARE PARENT EDUCATION SESSIONS 

I am pleased to inform you that as part of Child Protection Week (7–13 September 2025), CatholicCare’s School, Student and Family Program (SSFP) will be hosting informative parent education sessions at St Francis.

 SAVE THE DATE: These sessions will occur face-to-face at the College from approx 6pm till 7.30/7.45 - TBC on Monday 8 September.

The two topics to be covered will be: 

• Talking About Mental Health: A guide to having supportive, open conversations.
• Big Feelings, Calm Responses: Supporting children through emotional overwhelm.

These sessions are designed to support parents/carers with valuable insights into two very important topics and student/family well-being. CatholicCare aims to engage parents/carers with tailored content to enhance awareness and promote a safe environment for children in schools.

More details about these will be shared in the near future. Note we may be holding our next Friends of Francis Meeting - immediately prior to these information sessions - TBC.

YEAR 11 2026 / YEAR 10 SUBJECT SELECTIONS - HELPING STUDENTS MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES FOR YEAR 11 AND BEYOND

Over the past fortnight, St Francis Catholic College has hosted two important events to support our Year 10 students as they begin the process of choosing subjects for Year 11 in 2026. These events play a crucial role in helping students and families make informed choices about senior courses — because the better we get this process right now, the better the outcomes will be down the track. The right course, the right subjects, the right outcome.

In Week One, families attended the Subject Selection and Year 11 2026 Information Evening, where students heard from each Key Learning Area about Stage 6 subjects, requirements, and post-school opportunities. It was a valuable evening that helped students continue to think about their interests, strengths and goals.

We extend our sincere thanks to all KLA Leaders and staff who prepared and presented, and to the Year 10 team, led by Mr Fricot, for their ongoing support of the cohort. A big thank you also to Mrs Agostino, Mrs Lowe and Mr Barrs for coordinating key elements of the night.

This week, we followed up with a Zoom presentation attended by almost 60 parents and carers. This online session, featuring speakers from UAC and Work Trade Partnerships (Mr Shane Hardcastle), gave families a closer look at university and vocational options, and introduced the new Belong platform — a powerful tool to help students explore pathways and real-world opportunities after school.

A special thanks goes to Mrs Joanne McMahon, our Transition and Pathways Specialist Teacher, who not only supported the first evening but was the driving force behind the planning, coordination and delivery of this second session; important practical information.

We are proud of the strong support systems in place at St Francis as students navigate the important steps from Stage 5 into Stage 6. These events reflect our shared commitment to ensuring that every student is supported and set up for success.

WELCOMING TEACHERS FROM TIMOR LESTE

Last week, we were honoured to welcome a group of Marist teachers from Timor Leste to St Francis Catholic College. Their visit was part of a professional learning experience arranged through Marist Schools Australia, and it gave these educators the chance to observe Australian teaching in action and spend time with our staff.

The visiting group included Year 1 and 3 teachers and school leaders from a newly opened school, which currently operates out of parish meeting rooms while their permanent buildings are under construction. With limited resources and a very different educational setting, the teachers were eager to learn about classroom practice, behaviour support and how we create positive and engaging learning environments here at St Francis.

Our Year 1, Year 3 and PPT teams were incredibly generous with their time — welcoming the visitors into their rooms and giving up their break times to answer questions and share their insights. The warmth, professionalism and care shown by our staff made a real impact, and it was a proud moment for our College.

A special thank you to our Year 1, Year 3 teachers and PPT teams as well as Mrs Kylie Jeymour and Mrs Jennifer Lowe for coordinating the visit and helping to ensure everything ran so smoothly.

It was a powerful reminder of how fortunate we are — not just in our facilities, but in the people who make up our school community — and of the importance of supporting others wherever we can

MARKET DAY SUCCESS – REAL-WORLD NPDL LEARNING IN ACTION

Our recent Market Day was a great example of students taking the lead, working together, and putting their creativity into action — and we’re proud to share that the event raised over $2500 for the charitable works of Catholic Care Wollongong.

Students from Kindergarten to Year 12 enjoyed the opportunity to purchase a wide range of delicious treats, many of which were made, packaged and marketed by our own students. The buzz around the stalls was fantastic, with colour, energy and plenty of persuasive selling!

While senior students, including Year 11, played a valuable role on the day, special credit goes to our Year 9 Commerce students, who led the planning and preparation. From developing product ideas to working in teams to design, produce and promote their items, they showed great initiative, teamwork and creativity. It was a strong example of real-world learning, with students applying key skills in a hands-on, meaningful way.

Thank you to everyone who supported the day, and a special thank you to Mrs Riley, Mrs Agostino-Gorgo and Mrs Collins for their guidance, encouragement and organisation behind the scenes.

PRAYER - A Prayer for the Month of August

Loving God,
As we begin the month of August, we give thanks for the beauty of creation and the example of St Francis of Assisi, who showed us how to live with humility, compassion, and deep trust in You.

We pray especially for our Year 12 students as they begin their Trial HSC exams. Grant them clarity of mind, strength in study, and calm during moments of stress. May they know that they are supported and loved by their families, teachers, and our whole College community.

In this time of winter’s quiet, may we each find moments to pause, reflect, and grow.

Help us, like St Francis, to be people of peace — gentle with others, generous in spirit, and committed to justice. We remember too the spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice, and all in our College community who seek to serve with courage and compassion.

We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.

– Amen.

St Francis of Assisi — pray for us.

Blessed Edmund Rice — pray for us.

Live Jesus in our Hearts — forever!

Student Leadership at St Francis

Mr Rocco Badolato

The Importance of Coaching Your Child through Friendship Challenges 

Navigating friendships can be really challenging for your little one. It can be tempting to jump in and solve their challenges, especially because we don't like seeing them upset and often, the solution is pretty obvious (to you!). But coaching your child through friendship challenges helps them build confidence and develop lifelong skills. When your child next comes to you with a friendship challenge, listen attentively without interrupting and try the following.

• Show no judgement. Consider your tone of voice and respond curiously.
• After listening, repeat everything they told you without adding your opinion. This shows you've heard and understood them.
• Assure them that friendship challenges are meant to feel challenging: 'I would find that difficult too. I also might've felt ____. Is this how you feel?'
• Ask curious questions - questions that don't end with a yes or no response. 'What do you think you might say next time? How are you thinking of handling it?' If you get an 'I don't know' or a response that needs a little more building, this is the time to coach through the challenge.
• Start your suggestions with 'what do you think about this idea?'
• Encourage assertive communication. Encourage your child to think empathetically.

 It's okay if your child doesn't respond well to something you've said! Acknowledge where you went wrong and show them you're willing to make it right. This not only builds trust but also models healthy conflict resolution.

Mini Vinnies Supporting Year 12

Our Stage 3 Mini Vinnies students have been busy spreading kindness! In a thoughtful act of service, they created and delivered care packs for our Year 12 students as they prepare for their Trial HSC exams. Filled with treats, encouraging notes, and small essentials, these packs were a heartfelt reminder that our senior students are supported by the whole College community. Good luck to our Year 12 students!

Mrs Jill Crescini

Religious Education Coordinator K-4

We are excited to share with you a special initiative led by our Year 5 students as part of their commitment to community service and global citizenship.

As part of our support for the Solar Buddies project which aims to help children living in energy poverty our Year 5 students have been working hard to design and run lunchtime games for students across Kindergarten to Year 6. These games will take place during Break 1 in Week 4, from Monday 11th of August to Friday 15th of August.

• Years 3–6 will attend on Monday and Wednesday
  
  

• Kindergarten to Year 2 will attend on Tuesday and Thursday
  
  

• Friday’s participating year group is still to be confirmed
  
  

For just $1, students will receive two tokens which they can use to play any two games, with each game costing one token. All money raised will go towards purchasing solar-powered lights.

These solar lights will be built by our Year 5 students and sent to children in communities that experience energy poverty. This hands-on service opportunity allows our students to see the real-world impact of their actions.

This initiative is a wonderful opportunity for our Year 5 students to give back by volunteering their break time, and to grow in their leadership, creativity, collaboration, and sense of purpose.

We also warmly invite families to support this initiative by making a donation using the QR code on the attached poster or at this link to donate: https://illuminatestem.solarbuddy.org/t/st-francis-catholic-college

When donating, you’ll be able to choose to contribute to a specific Year 5 class or to the general SFCC Solar Buddies fund.

Thank you for supporting our students in making a meaningful difference both locally and globally.

Miss Daniella Sultana & Ms Tania Kolar

Parent Zoom Sessions: K–4 Wellbeing & Behaviour Update 

We invite all K–4 parents and carers to join one of our upcoming Zoom sessions on Thursday, 7th of August.

These sessions will introduce our new K–4 wellbeing program, Grow Your Mind, and provide an update on our College behaviour management and response processes for the Junior Years.

Session times:

• 9:00 am
• 6:00 pm

Both sessions will cover the same information and include time for questions. Zoom links will be sent out closer to the date.

If you are interested in one of the Zooms, please complete the attached Expression of Interest Google Form. This does not commit you to anything; simply an expression of interest. 

More information will be shared early next week. 

Luke Baddock

Leader of Pastoral Care K-4

100 days of Kindergarten 

There was joy, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia in the air as our College marked a very special occasion,  the celebration of 100 Days of Kindergarten alongside Grandparents Day. The day was a beautiful blend of milestone memories and heartfelt moments, bringing together students, families, and staff for a truly unforgettable event.

The festivities began with a vibrant parade, where Kindergarten students proudly showcased their “100 Days Wiser” spirit. The atmosphere was full of excitement as students received special certificates, acknowledging their amazing journey through their first 100 days of school.

The celebrations then moved to the green, where families enjoyed a relaxed picnic under the sunshine. It was a time for connection, conversation, and community.

As the morning continued, parents and grandparents were invited into the classroom to partake in a special Religion lesson. During the Religion lesson, families created stars to represent God’s promise to Abraham, reminding us of the precious gift of children and the blessings they bring.

It was a day to remember! One that honoured the past, celebrated the present, and looked joyfully toward the future.

Mrs Diana Shuker, Ms Erin Radl, Mrs Megan King

Kindergarten Teachers

Grandparents' Day

Grandparents’ Day was a truly heartwarming occasion at the College, celebrated on Friday 25th of July. The day brought together generations to honour the deep love, wisdom and guidance that grandparents and special family members offer. It was a beautiful reflection of our community, as families gathered for liturgy, shared time in classrooms and enjoyed morning tea and picnics together on The Green. The presence of grandparents in our learning spaces brought a special sense of connection and joy, reminding us of the important role they play in nurturing faith, family and tradition. As part of the celebrations, our Kindergarten students also marked their 100th day of school—adding a joyful splash of colour and energy to an already memorable day.

On Monday, 28th of July, Kindergarten to Year 6 were involved in a wellbeing incursion. Over three different sessions, the students were presented with a performance from Brainstorm Productions where they told the story of two children who developed tools and strategies to overcome bullying. The students responded with overwhelming positivity both enjoying the show for entertainment value, but also learning some new strategies and ideas. The students reflected on learning about empathy, what bullying is, and how fighting back will not help solve the problem. 

Welcome back to Term 3! Our Mathematicians have been working very hard these past two weeks and have been great listeners for their teachers. This term there are some exciting things happening, including Numeracy Week! Please keep an eye out for more information soon.

Classroom Spotlight: Year 2 

Year 2 has been learning about mass and how we can measure it using informal units. We even looked at using playdoh and testing if the mass of an object changes when we change the shape. See some of the photos of our learning. 

Creative Voices, Confident Performers: Year 6 take on Drama! 

This semester in CAPA, Year 6 students have begun their Drama studies with a focus on physical comedy. As part of the Year 6 program, they’re learning how to tell stories through movement, facial expression, and a range of performance techniques.

The unit will culminate in a series of group performances, where students will present original comedic skits designed to entertain an audience. Throughout the process, they’re developing essential 21st century skills such as creativity, collaboration, and self-management.

Drama in the middle years offers students a valuable space for self-expression, teamwork, and confidence-building. It’s a wonderful chance to see students step out of their comfort zones and support one another as they create and perform together.

Below are some reflections/experiences shared by some of our Year 6 Drama students:

Ms Anna Castagnella

Drama Teacher

Mr Najee Tannous

Leader of Creative and Performing Arts

Year 7 Leadership Day – Developing Leaders of Character and Courage

On Thursday 24th of July, our Year 7 students participated in a significant milestone on their journey through the Middle Years – the beginning of the Middle Years Leadership Process.

The day built upon the foundations laid during Term One’s My Strengths Character Pastoral Program, allowing students to reflect more deeply on their personal strengths and how these traits can shape their approach to leadership. Using their Pastoral data from Term Two, students explored the unique character traits that define them – such as courage, empathy, integrity, and resilience – and reflected on how these strengths can be used to positively influence their peers and the wider College community.

Throughout the day, students engaged in a series of meaningful and reflective activities designed to develop their leadership identity. They discussed how character traits can empower them to lead with strength, courage, and faith, and worked collaboratively to create video presentations showcasing how one of their strengths could be used to spark positive change within their grade or the College as a whole.

The Year 7 Leadership Day was grounded in the New Pedagogies for Deeper Learning (NPDL) framework, which supports the development of key 21st-century competencies, particularly character, citizenship, and collaboration. Through team challenges, discussion, and reflection, students developed their ability to work with others, communicate effectively, and lead with compassion and purpose.

We were also fortunate to be supported by Cameron Brown, founder of Explore Discover Act, whose dynamic and inclusive leadership program provided a safe and empowering space for students to connect, contribute, and grow. Cameron’s guidance helped students appreciate the everyday impact of leadership – through their thoughts, words, and actions – and encouraged them to take ownership of their learning and leadership journey.

This day plays a vital role in supporting student wellbeing, personal growth, and the development of future leaders. As our Year 7 students continue through the Middle Years, they carry with them the tools, insights, and courage to lead with purpose and make a difference in their world.

Mrs Kelly Russell 

Year 7 Pastoral Care Leader

Year 11 SLR Students Tee Off with On-Campus Golf Clinic

As part of their Outdoor Recreation unit, our Year 11 Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation (SLR) class recently enjoyed a hands-on golf coaching clinic.

The sessions will provide students with expert instruction in the fundamental skills of golf, including putting, chipping, and driving. With professional equipment and tailored guidance, the coach helped students develop proper grip, stance, and swing techniques.

Held in the College hall and oval, the clinic transformed familiar spaces into dynamic learning environments where students could safely engage in golf drills and skill-based challenges. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to explore a sport that many had never tried before, encouraging skill development and physical literacy in a supportive, inclusive setting.

The golf clinic directly supported syllabus outcomes by fostering participation in a recreational activity, enhancing movement skills, and building students' understanding of safe practices in outdoor settings. It also highlighted the value of structured coaching and reflective learning — key aspects of the SLR course.

The session was thoroughly enjoyed by all students, who appreciated the opportunity to step outside their usual sporting experiences and engage with a new and rewarding physical activity.

We thank Anthony from the  "Launch it Program" for bringing his expertise to our school and providing memorable, engaging sessions for our students.

Mr Arzapitian & Mr Badolato

On Friday 25th of July, the Campbelltown Athletics Centre came alive with colour, energy, and excitement as St Francis Catholic College hosted its 2025 Secondary Athletics Carnival. The event was a resounding success, with students from all year groups coming together for a day full of sportsmanship, College spirit, and outstanding athletic achievement.

The atmosphere was electric as students participated in a wide range of events, both competitive and novelty. From sprints and long jumps to tug-o-war and fun games, every student had the opportunity to get involved, earn points for their house, and enjoy the day with their peers. It was wonderful to see the strong sense of encouragement, participation, and pride on display.

Throughout the day, students accumulated points through their involvement and success in various events. After a thrilling day of competition, we are proud to announce the 2025 Athletics House Champion:

Congratulations to Treacy House for their outstanding team effort, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship throughout the carnival!

In addition to the house victory, several students delivered remarkable individual performances, with a number of school records broken — a testament to the hard work and determination of our young athletes.

The Athletics Carnival wasn’t just about competition – it was a celebration of our vibrant College community. Whether students were racing down the track, cheering from the sidelines, or assisting with event coordination, their collective effort and positive spirit made the day one to remember.

A heartfelt thank you to all the staff, student leaders, and volunteers who helped make the carnival such a smooth and successful event. Your support is truly appreciated.

We look forward to another exciting Athletics Carnival next year, as we continue to celebrate the talent, dedication, and community spirit that make St Francis Catholic College so special.

Mrs Daniella Pavlovich

Sports Coordinator 7-12

Young Voices Award 

In May this year, Jessica S in 6 Red entered the Young Voices Award Competition. The Young Voices Award Competition is organised by the Australian Catholic University. The theme this year was let your voices soar - Voices of Hope. Jessica submitted a poem based on this theme and her entry was selected as Highly Commended in the Junior article section of the Young Voices Awards for 2025.

Her entry was titled, ‘A Silent Plea for Hope’ The judges were impressed with its creativity and strong connection to this year’s theme: Voices of Hope.

See Jessica’s entry below:

 A SILENT PRAYER FOR HOPE

The oceans cry the forests weep, A Silent plague that won’t let slip. Plastic whispers in the breeze, littering the land with such unease. Bottles bags, and straws they say, choking creatures, washing away.

From mountain peaks to the ocean floor, it's all we see and yet It's more.

The turtle catches the fish that die.

The seagulls are plummeting from the sky. Plastics grip a deadly chain,

A futures burden or endless pain

Yet hope is born from hearts that care to fix this burden and make it fair.

With every choice, with every plea, we hold the power to set it free.

So let's take action let's unite by

turning off the darkness and bringing out the light. For the earth is ours and it's our fight,

to end this plague and make things right.

Her entry will appear in the Australian Catholics magazine. There will be a special celebration for all Young Voices Awards winners on the 28th of August, 2025.

 Congratulations to Jessica and her achievement!

A message from Transit Systems NSW:

We would like to remind students of the importance of carrying and correctly tapping on their Opal cards when using public transport services as this accurately monitors patronage and ensures adequate service delivery.

• Students must carry their Opal card at all times when using public transport.
• Opal cards should be tapped on and off for every journey.
• Tap-on data helps assess demand and plan reliable school bus services.