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- FROM THE PRINCIPAL
- FROM THE ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL - PASTORAL CARE
- YEAR 6 BISHOP'S MASS
- RELIGIOUS EDUCATION - YR 8/YR 3 COLLABORATION
- ST FRANCIS FEAST DAY CELEBRATIONS
- COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC SCHOOL PARENTS
- BOOK WEEK CELEBRATIONS
- WINTER STAY/ SLEEP OUT
- SFCC's PROUD MOMENT
- MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL @ THE PARISH
- FRANCIS FRONTLINE - EPISODE 7
- JUNIOR YEARS AWARDS
- JUNIOR YEARS MATHEMATICS
- SEASON OF CREATION ART COMPETITION
ST FRANCIS FEAST DAY 2025
What a wonderful day our College community shared, celebrating St Francis’ Feast Day on Friday.
Although St Francis of Assisi’s official Feast Day is October 4, we celebrated on Week 6, Term 3, a perfect time – especially for our Year 12 students, offering a joyful pause - not long after their HSC Trial Examinations.
The day began with a beautiful Mass celebrated by Father John Nguyen, a Franciscan friar. Our student choir and staff musicians created an uplifting atmosphere, enhancing the solemnity of the celebration. Special thanks to Mrs Crescini for her careful planning and coordination of the Mass, which made it such a meaningful experience. Father John’s sermon encouraged everyone to reflect on St Francis’ teachings – his care for creation, his balance of rest and work, and his compassion for others. My address post-Mass also highlighted and encouraged our students and staff to continue contributing to the rich life and culture of our College community, helping to build a supportive and vibrant environment for everyone.
Following the Mass, the College grounds came alive with laughter and excitement. Students enjoyed a wide variety of amusement rides, various food, and a range of activities, many of which allowed them to earn tickets that could be exchanged for prizes. The joy, energy, and College spirit on display made the day a highlight of the year.
A huge thank you to all staff who worked tirelessly throughout the day. From safely coordinating the rides and activities to supporting the Mass and ensuring everything ran smoothly, their dedication and energy made this Feast Day a truly memorable celebration for everyone.
BOOKWEEK 2025
Book Week is always a special time at the College, and this year’s celebrations in Week Five once again brought plenty of colour and joy. The highlight was our K-6 Book Parade, where students filled the Hall with imaginative and adventurous costumes that reflected this year’s theme, “Adventure.” It was wonderful to see families cheering on the parade, with some parents/carers even joining in the fun. The creativity on display, from both students, staff and families, really made the morning memorable.
Our Year 7-12 students also continued their tradition of dressing up, with a costume competition that showed just how creative our older students can be. Their enthusiasm added
to the spirit of the day and helped remind everyone that Book Week is for the whole College community.
The celebrations went well beyond the parade. The Scholastic Book Fair ran across the whole week in the Library, giving students and families the chance to explore and purchase new books. There were also several parent and staff book readings, including some wonderful stories shared in different languages – a great reminder of the richness and diversity of our community.
A big thank you to our staff for all their efforts in organising such a successful week, and to our families for the encouragement and support that helped make Book Week 2025 another event to remember.
FRIENDS OF FRANCIS MEETING RESCHEDULED AND CATHOLICCARE PRESENTATIONS
Given the CatholicCare presentations on 8th September, please note that this term’s Friends of Francis meeting will be shorter to accommodate the timely start of the presentations. It will also commence at 5.30 pm sharp in the Staff Common Room.
Please register for the face-to-face presentations (Talking About Mental Health: A guide to having supportive, open conversations AND Big Feelings, Calm Responses: Supporting children through emotional overwhelm) via the following link:
VET HOSPITALITY STUDENT OF THE YEAR 2025
I am thrilled to share some wonderful news about Stephanie G., Year 12, who has been named VET Student of the Year for the Diocese of Wollongong. The 2025 Vocational Education and Training (VET) Awards ceremony was held on Thursday, 28 August at the Wollongong Golf Club, celebrating excellence in VET across diocesan and congregational schools, as well as Registered Training Organisations (RTOs).
Stephanie’s achievement is particularly outstanding given the level of competition. She had previously placed first in NSW in Hospitality and then represented the College at the WorldSkills Championships in Brisbane, where she placed seventh nationally in this discipline.
At the Awards, Stephanie was up against some of the most talented VET students across the Diocese. Her technical skill, sociable and caring nature, and ‘professionalism’ – demonstrated in both her work and a video submission – impressed the judges and set her apart.
This recognition also highlights the commitment of more than 1,600 students who have undertaken training through our Diocesan RTO this year, gaining valuable employability skills and industry connections.
It was a proud moment to see Stephanie and her mother celebrate together as her award was announced, surrounded by diocesan and Catholic Schools NSW delegates.
We will officially celebrate Stephanie’s achievement during Graduation Week. Stephanie’s success is a wonderful example of dedication, skill, and passion in VET, and a credit to herself, her family, and our College community. I also recognise Mr Suters for his unwavering support.
YEAR 12 RETREAT RECONNECTOR
On Thursday, our Year 12 students gathered for their Retreat Reconnector – a special opportunity to pause, reflect, and refresh as they continue their journey through their final year at the College. The day began with a beautiful Mass at Mary, Mother of the Church Catholic Parish, Macquarie Fields, celebrated by Father Bosco and attended by members of the local parish community. We are grateful to Father Bosco and the parishioners for their warm welcome and for strengthening the connection between our College and the Parish.
Following Mass, students – guided by a dedicated team of senior staff – revisited the key themes from their Retreat held earlier this year in February. In small groups, Year 12 were encouraged to reflect on their personal growth, relationships, and faith as sources of strength and hope, both now and in life beyond school.
This day was a timely moment of renewal, particularly as it came soon after the completion of the Trial HSC Examinations. It gave students the space to pause, re-centre, and be reminded of the importance of faith, community, and resilience as they prepare for the final months of their schooling.
We extend our sincere thanks to Mr Watson, Mrs Hervey, Mrs Ghignone, and Mr Badolato for their commitment to leading the day, as well as the Year 12 Pastoral Care Team and Mrs Mediato from CEDoW for their invaluable support.
PRAYER
In honour of St Francis' Feast Day being celebrated at the College, the following prayer is most fitting:
SELF CARE FOR OUR SENIOR STUDENTS
1. Cultivate a Calm and Supportive Environment
Your home should be a sanctuary from the external pressures of exams. This means creating a dedicated, quiet, and organised study space free from distractions. Simple actions like ensuring younger siblings respect study time, minimising household noise, and having necessary supplies on hand can make a significant difference. Beyond the physical space, foster an atmosphere of calm and encouragement. Let your teen know that your love and support are unconditional and not tied to their exam results. Avoid conversations that add to the pressure, such as constant talk of future career paths or comparing them to others.
2. Champion a Healthy Body and Mind
The importance of physical health during periods of intense mental exertion cannot be overstated. Encourage a balanced routine that prioritises nutritious meals, adequate sleep, and regular physical activity.
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Fuel for the Brain: Prepare healthy snacks and meals rich in brain-boosting foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids. Limit caffeine and sugary drinks that can lead to energy crashes.
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Rest and Recharge: Ensure your teen is getting around eight to ten hours of sleep per night. Good sleep is vital for memory consolidation and cognitive function. Discourage late-night cramming sessions.
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Move to De-stress: Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. Encourage short breaks for a walk, a run, or any form of exercise they enjoy. This can help clear their head and improve focus.
3. Encourage Structured Study and Strategic Breaks
While it's your teen's responsibility to do the studying, you can provide valuable support in structuring their time effectively. Help them create a realistic study timetable that breaks down subjects into manageable chunks. This can make the task feel less overwhelming and more achievable. Crucially, build regular breaks into this schedule. These are not signs of laziness but are essential for maintaining concentration and preventing burnout. Breaks should be a complete mental switch-off, allowing for activities they genuinely enjoy.
4. Be a Listener, Not a Lecturer
During this high-stakes period, your teen needs a sounding board more than a director. Practice active listening and create opportunities for them to share their anxieties and frustrations without fear of judgment. Sometimes, simply verbalising their worries can provide immense relief. Validate their feelings by acknowledging that it's normal to feel stressed. Resist the urge to jump in with solutions unless they specifically ask for them. Often, a supportive ear is the most valuable tool you can offer.
5. Keep a Healthy Perspective: Focus on Effort, Not Just Outcomes
Remind your senior student—and yourself—that while these exams are important, they do not define their worth or their entire future. There are always multiple pathways to success and happiness. Shift the focus from achieving a specific grade to celebrating their effort, perseverance, and the knowledge they've gained throughout their schooling. Reassure them that you are proud of their hard work, regardless of the final outcome. This perspective can alleviate a significant amount of pressure and allow them to approach their exams with a clearer and more confident mindset.
And good luck!
KNITTING SHOUT OUT & APPEAL
Thanks so much to all who have made fantastic donations to our school knitting and crochet drive. Lots of lovely balls of wool, needles and completed squares (and beanies) . We are on our way to creating completed blankets.
This activity has been so popular with up to 50 students gathering twice a week. Soooo, we need more wool. If you have any balls of wool lying around at home or happen to see some on special in Kmart, Spotlight or the like, please pick up a ball or two and send them into the College reception. Thank you to our wonderful community for making this initiative such a success.
Mrs Leonie Pearce
On Tuesday the 12th of August, the year 6 students of Saint Francis Catholic College attended the annual Year 6 Bishop’s Mass at Mary Immaculate Church in Eagle Vale. This Mass for year 6 students was to commemorate our last year of primary school and the start of high school next year. We gathered to celebrate with Year 6 students from other schools in the Macarthur region. During the Mass we sang hymns, listened to readings from the Bible and the Gospel. The Mass was very pleasant and great and the homily shared by the Bishop was very inspiring and beautiful. The hymns and music were also very nice and graceful. When the Mass had concluded all the schools came together and ate lunch in the playground. This was a perfect setting to make new friends from other schools and also spend time with our existing friends. It was truly a great experience, filled with memories and friendships. This was a very special and enjoyable day.
- Hazelle Z and Fleur H
Religious Education: K-12 Space
This week, our Year 8 students had the wonderful opportunity to step into the role of teachers as they shared their learning about the Saints with Year 3. With creativity and enthusiasm, the older students prepared engaging activities and posters to help the younger students discover the lives of these inspiring figures of faith. It was a fantastic experience of peer learning, fostering leadership in Year 8 and sparking curiosity and joy in Year 3.
Thank you to our Year 8 teachers Mrs Marcellienus and Mrs Ghignone, and our Year 3 teachers, Mr Rolfe, Mrs Khoury and Mrs Rigitano for their support of this initiative.
See below student reflections on the experience.
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On Friday the 8th of August, we got to visit students in Year 3 for a period of fun-filled information about a Saint we were assigned in Term 2. In groups, we were tasked to create an engaging infographic about our assigned Saint. Using those posters we created, we helped the Year 3 students answer questions given by their classroom teacher. While we showed our poster, we got to help the Year 3 students answer a variety of questions that they were given by their classroom teacher. Overall, it was such a wonderful experience to teach the younger students about Saints they were unfamiliar with and how they can live Holy lives just like them. Lana A - Yr 8 |
This activity was so much fun. During this task, we had to create an informative poster about a chosen Saint. We then had to teach year 3's about the chosen Saint. This was an engaging and enjoyable task. We learned more about how to teach other people during this as well. We felt so grateful that we were able to provide a helping hand to the children in their road to learning about the Saints. You could feel the enjoyment and interest in the air. Overall, I can't wait for another task like this. Oliver G - Yr 8 |
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On the 8th of August, Year 8 met with the Year 3s to discuss a Saint with a pamphlet. We started the lesson off with an introduction to St Mary Mackillop, a well-known Saint who was a nun. Then, we dove into the individual Saints that the Year 8s researched and had a discussion with them about their lives and service to God. The Year 3s also worked through a worksheet, supported by the pamphlets we showed and explained to them. Throughout the lesson, we got a chance to really connect and interact with the Year 3s, while also enriching them with knowledge about a particular saint. Overall, the experience was beneficial for both groups, as we got to meet and teach some of the curious minds while interacting with them in a friendly and cheerful way. Gabriel W - Yr 8 |
On Friday 8th of August, Year 8 visited Year 3 to teach them about different Saints, such as St Mary of the Cross and St Thomas Aquinas. A few lessons prior, in groups, we were tasked to create an engaging infographic so that we could teach Year 3 about our chosen Saint. The infographic included information about what our Saint did in their life and how they followed in the footsteps of Jesus. When we got to the Year 3 classrooms, Year 8 was separated into groups to teach the Year 3 students about our chosen saint. Year 3 was tasked with completing a worksheet about a Saint. At the end of the lesson, Year 3 reflected on what they had learnt and shared their thoughts with the class. Year 8 and Year 3 had a really fun time together and enjoyed learning about various Saints. Vidisha P - Yr 8 |
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Around a week ago, we met up with the Year 3’s to present our chosen Saints infographic within our group. We had completed this infographic in advance of this experience in groups of three, where we had to choose a Saint, a list and write an infographic containing information like where they were born and their qualities. Moving forward, my group went into 3 blue in, where we met two Year 3 students who were assigned to our group. During this experience, we had some funny moments along the way, but also had a new, unique perspective on where we were the teachers, which for us was something definitely new. Initially, we struggled, but within a couple of minutes, we got comfortable teaching them, and they also the year 3’s became comfortable with us, which led to a few wholesome moments being created. For instance, on their sheet in the part where they had to draw the Saint we had to help along, which created a nice moment between the Year 3’s and us. We overall did this experience because the year three’s were learning about Saints, and our job was to extend their knowledge on one saint, which is a wholesome and strange experience I won’t forget. Vivaan P - Yr 8 |
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On Friday the 8th August, year 8 came to visit our classroom and shared their extensive knowledge of Saints with us. This experience made me really excited for what is to come in the future. It's getting my hopes up for when I am in year 8. Year 8's presentation taught me new extraordinary things that I have used in my own assessment task. Year 8 were my teachers and taught me lots of advanced things about the Saints. I hope they come to share more knowledge with us in the future. Arwin D - Yr 3 |
Year 8 came to visit us during our Religion lesson. I learned so much from my year 8 buddies. They taught me all about St Francis and shared lots of amazing facts about his life. My buddies even taught me how St Francis treated people and the world around him so that I can be like him. It was the best day ever! Elizabeth M - Yr 3 |
We are so proud of our students!
Mrs Crescini (Leader of Religious Education, Identity & Mission K-4)
Mrs Harvey (Leader of Learning Religious Curriculum 5-12)
Watch our video for a snapshot of the fun had on the day by our College community.
K-6 Book Week Parade 2025 – A Wonderful Celebration of Reading
On Tuesday the 19th of August, our College was filled with colour, excitement and creativity as we celebrated Book Week 2025 with the theme “Book an Adventure!”.
Despite the very wet weather, spirits were high as we kicked off the day with our much-anticipated K–6 Book Parade. Students proudly showcased their costumes, inspired by favourite characters and adventurous stories.
A special congratulations goes to our parade winners. The judges awarded first and second place to students who displayed originality, a strong connection to the theme and paraded with enthusiasm:
- Kindergarten – 1st: Alexandra V (KG), 2nd: Lucas K (KR)
- Year 1 – 1st: Toby S (1B), 2nd: Sebastian R (1G)
- Year 2 – 1st: Luis R (2B), 2nd: Ava P (2R)
- Year 3 – 1st: Zara F (3G), 2nd: Oscar C (3G)
- Year 4 – 1st: Emilyjane R (4R), 2nd: Camilla V (4R), Special mention: Penny S (4G)
- Year 5 – 1st: Alysha M (5B), 2nd: Alisdair R (5R)
- Year 6 – 1st: Anthony M (6G), 2nd: Sofia P (6G)
- Parent/Family Winner - Perez Family
- Teachers - Mrs Conte, Mrs Walker, Mrs Cox, Mrs Nguy
While the weather unfortunately meant the planned picnic lunch had to be cancelled, families instead enjoyed mingling in the Library and exploring the Scholastic Book Fair. We especially thank our parents and carers for their understanding and flexibility with this change—it was wonderful to see so many still joining us to share in the day.
The celebrations continued with open classrooms, where parents and carers were welcomed to share in learning experiences with their children. Students engaged with a CBCA award-winning text and participated in creative activities linked to the story, highlighting the power of literature to spark ideas and connect us through storytelling.
We are so grateful to our students, staff and families for making the day such a memorable one. Book Week is always a highlight on our College calendar, and this year’s celebration truly captured the adventure and joy that reading brings—even in the rain!
Watch our video below to sample the fun and adventures had by our Students, Parents and Staff.
K-6 Book Week Performance - Treasure Hunt
As part of our Book Week celebrations, K–6 students were treated to a live performance of Treasure Hunt on Wednesday the 20th of August. Treasure Hunt is an educational musical presented by Perform Education in partnership with the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA).
In celebration of the CBCA’s 80th anniversary and this year’s Book Week theme, “Book an Adventure!”, the action-packed and interactive musical took students on an exciting treasure hunt, exploring themes of sustainability, our relationship with the natural environment and the way stories can connect people from different backgrounds.
Written by Craig Christie and featuring a selection of the 2025 CBCA Shortlisted Books, Treasure Hunt had students singing, laughing and joining in the adventure from start to finish. It was wonderful to see our students so engaged and inspired by live theatre and to watch the power of storytelling come to life on stage.
This experience not only celebrated the joy of reading but also highlighted the important role books play in deepening understanding and building community. It was a special addition to our Book Week festivities and we thank Perform Education for bringing such an energetic and meaningful performance to our College.
Mrs Kylie Jeymour
Acting Junior Years Leader of Learning (Tues-Fri)
DIOCESAN SECONDARY ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS
On Friday the 22nd of August, a talented group of students proudly represented the College at the Secondary Diocesan Athletics Carnival. Competing against schools from across the Diocese, our athletes demonstrated determination, skill and sportsmanship throughout the day.
Each student gave their best effort in their chosen events, with many achieving personal bests and placing strongly in highly competitive fields. What stood out most was not only the performances on the track and field, but the way our students encouraged each other and represented our College values with pride. Their enthusiasm, teamwork, and respect were noticed and commended.
A huge congratulations to all participants on their outstanding achievements, and we commend them for their commitment to training and representing the school at such a high level.A special congratulations goes to Lucas M, who was runner-up for the Under 14 Age Champion. An outstanding achievement that reflects consistent excellence across multiple events.
The following athletes have now qualified to represent the Diocese at the next stage of competition, and we wish them every success as they prepare for this exciting opportunity - Lucas M, Baisama K and Taylah P.A special mention to Miss Acitelli, Miss Flegg & Ms Cox who supported the students on the day.Congratulations to all!
Mrs Jill Crescini
Religious Education Coordinator K-4
In this episode, we dive into the 6Cs of Deep Learning – Character, Citizenship, Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, and Critical Thinking. These key skills are at the heart of how we learn and grow at St Francis Catholic College, shaping students to be confident, capable, and compassionate learners ready for the future.
Join us as we explore what each of the 6Cs means in our College community, how they connect to everyday learning, and why they matter for success in the real world. Whether you’re a student, parent, or teacher, this episode will give you an inspiring introduction to the deep learning culture at SFCC.
Visit the Francis Frontline Community Form[https://forms.gle/
Ms Tania Kolar
Leader of Middle Years Learning
Literacy and Numeracy Week (29th of August to 4th of September) is an annual event to encourage and celebrate literacy and numeracy. The last few weeks have been filled with a variety of literacy activities due to Book Week and so we will be focusing on Numeracy at St Francis in Week 8. More information will be coming soon!
Classroom Spotlight: Year 3
Year 3 has been learning to build their understanding of time and focusing on using correct language. Students are looking at making time with physical clocks and using the terms ‘to’ and ‘past’ to describe the time. For example, instead of saying 40 minutes past 3, they can say it is 20 to 4. See some photos of their work below!
