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- A Message from the Principal
- A Message from the Assistant Principal
- A Message from the Leader of Ministry
- Wati Discovery House (Years 7 and 8)
- Watha Endeavor House (Years 9 and 10)
- Bathu Horizons House (Years 11 and 12)
- 2025 Preliminary Exam Timetable
- HSC Supervisors
- A message from the Leader of Religious Education
- A message from the Leader of Learning - Science
- A Message from the Pedagogical Mentor
- A Message from the Leaders of Learning HSIE
- A Message from the Internal Sports and Activities Coordinator
- A Message from the Careers Advisor
- A Message from the Defence School Mentor
- A message from Student Services
- Upcoming Events - Term 3 2025
- Parish Mass Times
Bernard Burgess
Psalm 85:3,5
Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I cry to you all the day
long.
O Lord, you are good and forgiving,
full of mercy to all who call to you.
Dear Catherine McAuley, Catholic College families,
Congratulations go to our Year 12 students who recently completed the Trail HSC exams across a two week period and were immersed in the process of completing, in most cases, three hour exams, and in some cases practical assessment associated with their subjects. Our first CMCC Year 12 cohort can be very proud of the way they approached and completed this significant step on their journey to the HSC in Term 4.
Included in the Trial HSC process was the presence of the NESA Presiding Officer who will take charge of the HSC operations for CMCC. This was important as our students needed to become familiar with external supervisors running and overseeing all HSC operations for the college as opposed to their own teachers as supervisors.
Book Week
The Ursula Frayne Library was alive with activity last week with the many activities coordinated and provided for our learners by Mrs Philpott, our Teacher Librarian and supported by many staff and students. Book Week is a vital reminder of the importance of reading for everyone, for learning, leisure and enjoyment. The connection to knowledge through reading is a gift and we were very fortunate to experience in the college such an awareness and celebration of reading throughout Book Week.
Core + Evening
The Year 8 Core + evening lead by Mr Mahony and supported by our Leaders of Learning across the college was a very well-attended and exciting event for our students in Year 8 – Wati - Discovery House, preparing for their electives in Year 9 and their graduation to Watha Endeavour House. It was delightful to see so many families on the night and to speak with them about the unique offerings at CMCC that engage our students in their learning and enable agency in their subject choices and determination of their learning pathways.
Student Leadership 2026
Our Year 11 students who have put themselves forward for student leadership in 2026 have been going through the process of application, endorsement, speeches, voting and interviews. This is a courageous act in many ways and all students who have said yes to this are to be congratulated on their efforts and will serve the college well in the coming year. We look forward to the announcements surrounding College Captains and other leadership roles in the coming weeks.
As previously communicated to our families, Mrs Denham, Head of House for Bathu – Horizons (Yr 11&12) and Mr Scott Warnock Head of House for Watha – Endeavour (Yr 9 &10) are moving to Assistant Principal roles in other schools in 2026 and a recruitment process has recently been undertaken to replace them.
I’m pleased to announce that following this process these appointments have been made.
Mr Aaron Mahony - Permanent Head of House from the commencement of 2026.
Mr Robert Bain - Head of House from January 2026 to the end of the 2027 school year. (2 Year secondment)
Aaron has been acting Head of House during 2025 and is an experienced leader in wellbeing and learning across a number of schools. His strong connections with our staff , students, families, and community will contribute significantly to the future of the college.
Rob who is currently acting Head of House for Watha is an experienced leader across several school settings in wellbeing and learning and strongly supports the CMCC context and culture. He is very much looking forward to the next two years in this role.
We are very much looking forward to the final weeks of formal schooling for our Year 12 students and to the celebrations and recognition of the first ever Year 12 cohort to graduate from Catherine McAuley Catholic College Medowie. Families will be kept well informed about the events and celebrations and we look forward to celebrating with them for these momentous celebrations.
United in Mercy
Bernard Burgess
College Principal
Claudette Stace
Welcome Defence School Mentor
I am excited to share that Amy Adam has begun her role at CMCC as our very first Defence School Mentor. Amy is looking forward to working with our Defence students and families and understands the nuances of Defence life from her own family experience.
The primary objectives for the role are;
- Supporting the integration of new Defence students into the school environment.
- Supporting Defence students experiencing any social, emotional or academic challenges.
- Supporting Defence students experiencing the impacts of Defence-related parental absence and relocation.
- Directing students to school, Defence or external programs, services or opportunities that meet their support needs.
- Increasing the awareness and appreciation of the unique Defence lifestyle and associated challenges for students in schools and local communities.
Students will have a chance meet Amy next week in the library.
United in Mercy
Siobhan Kelly
Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. (John 14:6)
On Tuesday of Week 6, our Year 10 students gathered by the beautiful waters of Hawks Nest for their annual Reflection Day which offers a time to pause, connect, and step away from the routines of school life. This year’s theme, Life, Abundantly, reminded students of the deep call we all share: to seek out what is true, good, and beautiful, and to live lives filled with love, hope, and purpose.
We were blessed to have Chris Doyle present with us and through his music, storytelling, and humour, Chris helped our Year 10 cohort reflect on the unique gifts they each bring to our community. At the heart of the day was the reminder that Jesus shows us the way – a way grounded in St Paul’s timeless message to the Corinthians: that faith, hope, and love are the foundations of a full life. Students explored what it means to not only care for themselves, but also to care for others and for our earth. Whether through simple acts of kindness, offering encouragement, or embracing stewardship of creation, they were encouraged to live abundantly by putting love into action.
For those of faith and those still discerning what they believe, the day provided a chance to consider what voices and choices lead them towards becoming their best selves. It was a time to let go of burdens, to reflect on relationships, and to imagine what it means to contribute to a community where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff who attended and to Chris Doyle for his inspiring presence, and especially to our Year 10 students for the openness and respect with which they entered into the day. The reflection day was a beautiful reminder that when we walk together in hope, faith, and love, we discover the joy of the abundant life Jesus promises.
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Hello families
As we step into the second half of Term 3, Wati House can be proud of the journey we’ve taken so far this term. The past six weeks have brought with them both challenges and moments of real growth, and now is the perfect opportunity to reflect on our progress while sharpening our focus for the weeks ahead.
I have been especially proud of the maturity and approach to our new PB4L (Positive Behaviour for Learning) focus on routines and active listening. Two seemingly simple habits that, when done consistently, that have the power to transform not only our own learning but also the experience of those around us. The maturity of Year 7 and Year 8 gives me confidence that as a House, that we are more than capable of taking this focus seriously and turning it into daily action and habits in our CMCC community.
Please find below the Semester Two Assessment Schedule:
Year 7
Year 8
Year 7 Highlight from Mr Moore
This term, our Year 7 theme of Stewardship continues to guide our learning and daily practice. Students are being reminded that Stewardship is not only about caring for their own gifts, but also about sharing those gifts with others in ways that leave a positive impact.
In LEA, students are currently working on Mini Projects that bring Stewardship to life. These projects provide them with opportunities to use their creativity and initiative to make a difference in meaningful and practical ways.
To further inspire our theme, we are drawing on Beyoncé’s song “I Was Here,” which reflects leaving a positive mark on the world. Our goal is to perform this piece as a Year 7 cohort at the end-of-term House Assembly. Any students with/or without musical experience, whether in singing, playing an instrument, or performance are encouraged to see Mr Moore if they would like to be involved.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you, the parents, for your continued support in encouraging students to follow the uniform policy. Wearing the uniform with pride reflects respect for themselves, their peers, and the school community, and I greatly appreciate the role families play in reinforcing these expectations.
I look forward to seeing how our Year 7 students continue to grow as active stewards who make a difference in the lives of others.
Mr Moore
Year 8 Highlight from Ms Madden
Last Wednesday we were delighted to welcome students and their families to our Core+ Evening at CMCC. The event showcased over 30 diverse and engaging course options, including filmmaking, ceramics, rugby league, and marine studies; offering something for every student to explore their interests and passions.
Families had the opportunity to speak with staff and learn more about the exciting pathways available in Stage 5. These conversations play a vital role in supporting students to make informed, confident subject selections for the years ahead.
Key Information:
- 31 courses available
- Choose 2 courses for 2026 and 2 for 2027
- 100-hour = 1 year | 200-hour = 2 years
Subject Selection Process:
- Opens: Week 6, Monday
- Closes: Week 8, Monday
- Students to rank preferences for both years
- Final subjects confirmed early Term 4
More infomation: Core+ information
United in Mercy,
Wati Discovery House Leaders
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Watha House Update – Year 9 & 10
It has been a busy and exciting Term 3 for our Watha students in Years 9 and 10, with a range of experiences that have challenged them to grow academically, spiritually, and socially.
Year 10
Preparing for the Future
Year 10 recently welcomed the University of Newcastle, who spoke with our students about all things university, from courses and pathways, to entry requirements, accommodation, scholarships, and even how to pay for it. The session was highly engaging and informative, with many students commenting on how valuable it was in helping them think about their future.
Reflection Day
On Tuesday, Year 10 also participated in their Reflection Day, which many students have described as the highlight of their year so far. Led by Chris Doyle, the day focused on being one’s best self, living with gratitude, and seeing the world through God’s eyes. Students loved the energy and music Chris brought, with many enthusiastically joining in with singing and dancing. It truly was a special day of faith, fun, and self-discovery.
Work Experience
Looking ahead, In Week 9 year 10 students are also eagerly preparing for their upcoming Work Experience, which will provide them with another opportunity to explore possible future pathways.
Year 9
Multi Sport Cup
Year 9 recently enjoyed their Multi-Sport Cup, with students engaging in a wide range of activities both in and out of the classroom – from multiball and table tennis to other fun and competitive games. The atmosphere was electric, and it was wonderful to see students so engaged.
Reflection Day
Back in Week 4, Year 9 also held their Reflection Day, led by our inspiring Leader of Ministry, Mrs Kelly. The theme was Many Parts, One Body, One Spirit, encouraging students to reflect on their unique gifts and how each person contributes to the strength of the cohort. Together, they created a beautiful cross, symbolising how their gifts combine to create unity and purpose within the group.
LEA
In addition, each LEA class in Year 9 has been designing a stepping stone to reflect both their personal gifts and our College values. These will form a lasting symbol of their shared identity and contribution to our school community. They will hopefully look like something below:
Looking Ahead
Watha House has already achieved so much this term, and we are excited for what the rest of Term 3 will bring. With reflection, growth, and plenty of celebration already behind us, we look forward to continuing to build on these moments of connection and success together.
United in Mercy,
Watha Endeavour House Leaders
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Hello families,
Year 11 Highlight from Mrs Browne
The Year 11 Preliminary Exams will commence in Week 8, starting on Monday 8 September, and mark an important stage in each student’s academic journey. These exams provide a valuable opportunity to consolidate learning and demonstrate understanding across all subjects before moving into the HSC course. In the lead up to the exam block, it is crucial that students develop and follow a clear study timetable to ensure their revision is balanced and effective. A well-structured timetable helps students to manage their time wisely, prioritise key areas of focus, and reduce stress by spreading out revision rather than leaving it all to the last minute. Maintaining this routine during the exam block itself is equally important, allowing students to remain organised, focused, and prepared for each subject as it arises.
Please see below for the 2025 Preliminary Exam Timetable.
On Thursday, 14 August the NSW Parliament's Regional Roadshow was held at Cessnock for a day focused on engaging high school students from the Hunter region. Deena Clemson a student in Year 11 took part in the day where the event featured a public speaking competition and a youth forum, where students delivered speeches and participated in discussions on important community issues. The roadshow also included a keynote by The Hon. Virginia Bell AC, SC, on the political significance of the NSW Women's Legal Status Act of 1918 and a historical re-enactment, Congratulations Deena on your participation in the event and representing CMCC with such enthusiasm.
Year 12 Highlight from Ms Harrison
Congratulations on finishing Trial Examinations:
We are incredibly proud of the way Year 12 approached their Trial Examinations. Year 12 students received a high level of compliments from supervising staff about their conduct during the exams – a true reflection of their maturity, respect, and commitment at this stage of your journey.
The weeks ahead provide them with a valuable opportunity to strengthen their depth of knowledge, skills, and understanding as they prepare for the HSC. We encourage Year 12 to make the most of the resources available to you, especially the dedicated teaching staff, who are here to support them in achieving their personal goals.
As marks and feedback are returned, Year 12 are asked to seek support – both for your study and your wellbeing. Use this feedback to shape effective study plans and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need guidance.
Finally, remember that all of CMCC stands proudly behind you, our very first graduating McAuley Eagles. You are the trailblazers of the College, and your hard work and perseverance set the path for future students to follow.
Year 12 Mercy Award Winners:
Congratulations to our Term 2 Mercy Award winners
- Jayden Belan (not pictured)
- Destiny Atutahi
- Charlotte Hopkin
- Isabella Sumner
- Stephanie Hallam (not pictured)
- Ryan Breslin (not pictured)
DioSounds Recognition:
Several of our impressive Year 12 students have been recognised for their contribution to DioSounds – their last ever!
- Jacey Ganey
- Logan Miller
- Lincoln Graham (not pictured)
Study Resources:
Year 12 are reminded of the many study and wellbeing resources that are available to them in the OneNote section of the Stage 6 TEAM, including study planners, academic writing support, study tips and wellbeing resources.
Week 10 Activities for Year 12:
The Year 12 Student Leadership team have been busily working on activities for their final week of school. The following themes and activities were selected through a whole year survey.
Monday – Dress up as a teacher + childhood games
Tuesday – Pyjama Day + ‘Anything but a backpack’
Wednesday – Dress as a celebrity + Senior Olympics
Year 12 Upcoming Dates:
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Year 12 Formal RSVP due |
Monday 15 September |
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Year 12 Final Reports Released |
Monday 22 September |
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Year 12 Graduation Mass and Assembly |
Thursday 25 September |
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HSC Written Examinations |
Thursday 16 October - Friday 7 November |
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Year 12 Formal |
Friday 7 November |
Mayoral Academic Scholarship opportunity:
United in Mercy,
Bathu Discovery House Leaders
Do you have a family member who may be interested in being a Supervisor for the 2025 inaugural HSC at Catherine McAuley Catholic College?
We are seeking expressions of interest from our CMCC Community to be part of the HSC Supervisor group.
The requirements to be a Supervisor:
- Be over 18 years old and not a recent HSC graduate
- Have a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) for paid employment (or willingness to obtain)
- DO NOT have a relative (including children, siblings, grandchildren, nieces, nephews or cousins) sitting the HSC exams at Catherine McAuley Catholic College.
- HAVE NOT BEEN recently employed ( 2025 ) by CMCC (paid or volunteered) including, but not limited to clerical staff, casual/relief/ part-time or permanent teachers, sports coaches, canteen volunteers, board members or P&F (FACE - Family And Community Engagement members)
- DO NOT tutor students sitting the HSC exams at CMCC
- Have a valid email address
- Physical ability to stand for long periods of time
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Aattention to detail
- Ability to carry out duties confidentially and discreetly
- The employer is NESA and the pay rate is $31.03 / hour with a minimum of 3 hours.
- The exam period is from Thursday 16th October - Friday 7th November.
- Work would NOT be all day or every day and there would be some flexibility with employment.
Further information or expressions of interest can be obtained by contacting Vicki Grogan (CMCC Presiding Officer 2025)
0429337455
Sarah Gardiner
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.” (Romans 12:12)
St Paul’s encouragement to remain steadfast in hope and prayer speaks beautifully to the work taking place in our Religious Education classrooms this term. Across Years 7–12, our students are encountering God in new and life-giving ways — through prayer, sacrament, justice, relationships, and the responsibility of learning.
Year 7 – Faith in Action
Students are exploring how Christians encounter God through the sacramentality of life, expressed in prayer, liturgy, and the Sacraments. They are developing active reading skills to engage more deeply with Scripture and are learning how prayer supports human flourishing in daily life. Their formal assessment, a reflective Prayer Journal, will be uploaded to Compass by 9am on Monday of Week 8 (8 September).
Year 8 – Faith in Justice
Year 8 students are engaging with Catholic social teaching and Jesus’ radical challenge of unconditional love to all. They are considering how Christians today live their faith through action for justice and service. Their formal task, a Letter to an MP on a chosen social issue, will be written during Week 8 lessons.
Year 9 – Caring for Our Common Home
Year 9 focuses on ecological responsibility and the call to care for creation. Their formal assessment is due on Compass by 9am Monday of Week 8 (8 September).
Year 10 – Growing in Loving Relationships
Year 10 students are reflecting on the theme of relationships, preparing for the Diocesan Religious Literacy Examination on Wednesday of Week 9 (17 September), with a catch-up scheduled for Monday of Week 10 (22 September) for those on work experience.
Year 11 – Preparing for Final Exams
Students are completing final preparations for their Year 11 examinations. Studies in Catholic Thought students are revising the topic Reimagining Creation, while Studies of Religion students are preparing for exams on Nature of Religion and Beliefs and their tradition studies.
Year 12 – Leading the Way
Our inaugural HSC cohort has completed their final school-based assessments, including the CSSA Trial exam. Teachers are finalising feedback as students turn their focus to revision. Their dedication and leadership have set a strong example for the whole College community.
As we move through the term, we are reminded that the work of faith is never only about tasks and deadlines, but about becoming people of prayer, justice, and hope.
Luke Kelleher
Year 8 Science
This term, our Year 8 science class has been exploring extraction and filtration techniques through a hands-on investigation. Students began by extracting tannins from oak galls, a natural source of plant compounds traditionally used in ink-making. After carefully filtering the tannin solution to remove any solids, they combined it with an iron (II) sulphate solution to produce iron gall ink. This ink, historically used for centuries in manuscripts and artworks, is known for its deep blue-black colour and permanence once it oxidises on paper. Using their freshly made ink, students created their own artworks, showcasing both their scientific skills and creativity.
Year 9 Marine Studies
The Marine Studies Core + elective class has spent a lot of time this year designing and cycling our fish tanks. After much deliberation and debate, the fish were ordered and arrived. The students are very excited to introduce a few of the friendly faces that students will see in the Marine Studies room.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
This term in the Mental Health and Wellbeing elective, students have been deepening their understanding of mental health conditions. After exploring the signs, symptoms, and impacts of conditions such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, they have channelled their learning into creative artworks. These pieces express the lived experiences of these conditions, giving students an opportunity to combine research, empathy, and creativity. The resulting artworks are powerful, thoughtful, and reflective, showcasing both students’ artistic talents and their growing understanding of mental health.
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By Claire Robinson |
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By Grace Ridgway |
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By Trinity Bland |
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By Violet Wimmer |
Next term, students will begin their Major Project: Contributing to Positive Mental Health in a Community. This exciting project has three parts:
- Research into a specific mental health condition and a community that would benefit from greater awareness and support.
- Interview with an individual connected to the community, gathering real-life insights and perspectives.
- Pitch of an innovative idea (such as an app, event, programme, or initiative) designed to make a positive impact on the chosen community’s mental health.
This project encourages students to bring together research, creativity, and empathy to design real-world solutions for promoting positive mental health. We are looking forward to seeing the diverse, thoughtful, and practical ideas they develop.
Humans
In the Humans elective, students have been exploring different aspects of culture and how these shape the way people live and express identity. They have investigated elements such as clothing, housing, food, and significant events, comparing practices across different times and places. To showcase their learning, each student is designing their own “museum exhibit”. These exhibits highlight key aspects of culture and present them in a creative, engaging way incorporating all of the senses in their creations. This task encourages students to think critically about culture, make connections between societies, and communicate their understanding in a visual and interactive format.
We are looking forward to seeing the variety and creativity of the museum exhibits as students bring culture to life in their own unique ways.
Tamara Carrigan
This term, our Literacy Professional Learning Committee introduced a new Active Reading Framework across a variety of key learning areas, aimed at strengthening key comprehension skills in our students. The initiative was driven by analysis of Year 7 reading data from NAPLAN, PAT testing, and other internal and external sources. The data highlighted two critical areas for development: retrieval of directly stated information and inference skills.
In response, the committee developed a research-backed framework with a common language and set of resources to support teachers in explicitly teaching these skills. The strategy also empowers students to become more independent in applying them across disciplines.
To make the framework engaging and memorable, it incorporates three of our college team animals:
Eagle – Fly Over: Skimming and scanning a text
Dingo – Hunt Through: Locating directly stated information
Shark – Dive Deeper: Inferring meaning from a text
You can support your child’s reading at home by asking them to be an eagle, dingo, or shark when exploring a text, whether it’s a news article, a recipe, or a storybook. Encouraging them to skim like an eagle, hunt for facts like a dingo, and dive deep like a shark to uncover hidden meanings is a fun and effective way to build lifelong literacy skills.
See below for some of the strategies and resources being used in classrooms.
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Alexander Finall |
Alexandria Warnock |
The HSIE staff and students are buzzing at the moment!
Year 7
Year 7 are experiencing some hands on learning creating 3D models of landscapes, using Oreos to replicate tectonic plate movements and will soon engage in water colour painting to demonstrate natural and human processes that change and shape the environment portrayed in their current novel ‘Walking the Boundaries’.
Year 8
Year 8 students are busy building their writing skills. We are building our learning sequences to include more opportunities for direct instruction for writing, in line with the NSW Curriculum Reform initiatives. The new History and Geography syllabus, include direct areas of teaching for writing, our staff are working hard to integrate authentic experiences for our students. Our Year 8 students have really stepped up, engaging with text deconstruction and modelled writing to produce their own diary entries. The diary entry creation requires students to apply the historical skills and concepts of empathetic understanding and perspective to the Medieval World.
Work Studies – Year 11 and 12
The Work Studies (years 11 -12) syllabus is designed to assist students in their transition from school to work. It develops knowledge and understanding of the issues faced by students in the transition to work and the skills needed for effective career planning and performance of tasks in the work environment. The course is unique, in that students can enter the course in Year 12, without having completed the preliminary units. This enables students who reevaluate their chosen HSC pathway during their Year 11 year, to change their course of study.
If students are considering whether Work Studies is a viable option as they move into Year 12, please encourage them to discuss this with their Head of House, of the HSIE Leader of Learning. A scope of learning is included below, which demonstrates the 6 pathways through Work Studies and the modules that will be studied.
Blake Jamison
It’s been a busy and exciting start to Term 3 at CMCC, with students diving into a wide range of sports and activities.
In LEA classes, Unlock the Box continues to challenge and engage students. Congratulations to 8LEA1, 8LEA7, 9LEA7 and 10LEA3, who have all won a key this term and will attempt to Unlock the Box at our End of Term House Celebrations.
Our 3 vs 3 Basketball Competition kicked off with boys’ and girls’ teams from Years 7 to 11. The games are competitive yet friendly, with plenty of encouragement and teamwork on display. Finals are just around the corner, and we can’t wait to see which teams rise to the top.
The MarioKart Cup also launched this term, drawing 32 students into a knockout-style tournament. Races are fast-paced and exciting, with the leaderboard tight as we head into the final round.
Multi-Sport Cup has also taken place for Years 7 and 9, with students rotating through basketball, netball, futsal, offside touch, and hockey. This format gives everyone the chance to try new sports, build confidence, and enjoy healthy competition. Years 8 and 10 will take part in Week 8.
We have also introduced new team-building activities during LEA, including a cup stacking challenge where students used rubber bands and string to build a pyramid of cups. Watching our students problem-solve, collaborate, and share plenty of laughs has been a highlight of the term.
Looking ahead, a Golf Putting Challenge and Jenga Competition will start in Week 7. Both will run during break times, offering a mix of skill, strategy, and friendly rivalry.
Thank you to all students for your energy and enthusiasm — it’s shaping up to be a brilliant term, and we’re excited for what’s still to come!
Go Eagles!
Cassie Barnett
Upcoming Events
AI Tech Tempest Day
An exciting opt-in incursion at CMCC for Years 9, 10 and 11 on Thursday 19 September (Week 9).
- Learn about the latest global technology trends and the impact of increasing AI adoption.
- Discover how to effectively use generative AI to enhance human productivity.
- Explore how AI agents can improve key business processes.
- Understand how today’s jobs are changing to create opportunities for the future.
- Enhance essential human skills – creativity, collaboration, critical analysis and judgment.
Register HERE - places still available!
University of Newcastle (UON) Visit – Year 10
During LEA time in Week 6, UON representatives will talk to Year 10 about future study options and what life at university is like. Please bring along any questions you may have.
Year 12 students will also have the opportunity to book a one-on-one appointment with a UON ambassador on the same day.
ADF Presentation – Years 9 and 10
The Australian Defence Force will present to Years 9 and 10 about pathways, careers, and programs available to students. They will also share information about their excellent ATSI program for young people.
SBATs – Year 10
- Information flyers are now available on the Careers TEAMS page (General Channel). These will help answer questions about attaining an SBAT for 2026. Remember: SBATs are student-driven when securing a workplace.
- St Nic’s Early Education SBATs are now advertising. Students interested should check the information session posted on the Careers TEAMS page.
UAC / UON
- UAC Early Bird Deadline: Tuesday 30 September 2025 – Apply before this date to avoid extra fees.
- UAC Applications Close: Friday 6 February 2026 (Semester 1, 2026 entry).
- 2025 NSW HSC ATAR Results Released: Thursday 18 December 2025
- HSC results from 6am (via NESA)
- ATARs released from 9am (via UAC website)
- SRS Course Preference Deadline: Thursday 6 November 2025
- UAC SRS First Round Offers Released: Thursday 13 November 2025
- UAC Main Round 1 Offers Released: Tuesday 23 December 2025
UON Early Entry Preference Deadlines
- Thursday 4 September 2025 (11:59 pm): Preferences locked in. Any changes made after this date won’t count.
- Thursday 25 September 2025 (11:59 pm): Final deadline for students who apply for Early Entry between 5–25 September.
Work Experience
- Term 2: A huge success – over 50 students participated, with all feedback from workplaces being positive. Supervisors spoke very highly of our Year 10 students.
- Term 3: Documentation is due Monday of Week 6. Please ensure you have submitted all required forms to your workplace and returned the SPR with all risk sections completed.
Booking Appointments
- Years 10–12: Please book via the Careers TEAMS page (Appointments tab).
- Years 7–9: Please email me directly at barnett@mn.catholic.edu.au.
Jobs of the Future – Focus
Careers in renewable energy are expected to thrive in the coming years, especially within government-supported net zero projects such as:
- Onshore and Offshore Wind Advanced Manufacturing
- Solar, Batteries and Storage
- Pumped Hydro
- Clean Energy Precincts and Circular Economy Hubs
- Major Transmission Projects
Pathway Options
- ATAR plays a role, but so does VET.
- Universities and the VET sector are increasingly linked.
- 7% of VET graduates complete further VET education or training.
- 7% enrol in higher education.
- Many university graduates also complete a VET qualification to meet employment requirements in their chosen field.
Amy Adam
A very warm welcome to all our CMCC Defence families.
My name is Amy Adam, and I will be the Defence School Mentor at Catherine McAuley Catholic College.
I will be working with our Defence students and families to provide support during school transitions and throughout the academic year.
I am available to staff, students and parents Monday – Thursday, I look forward to working with Defence students to plan some exciting events for the school to participate in this year.
About Amy Adam
Amy Adam understands the unique challenges and experiences of the Defence lifestyle, as a defence spouse for 13 years and Mother of a young child we have experienced 7 defence moves and lived in 3 different states, and many overseas deployments. This personal experience means I can relate to the challenges of frequent moves, parental deployments, and the need to build new connections in a new school community.
The Defence School Mentor Program
The Defence School Mentor (DSM) Program provides funding to schools to minimise the impact of the mobile lifestyle on Defence students’ education. The DSM Program assists Defence students and their families with changing schools, integrating into the school community and providing support during parental absences. This funding provided by the Defence Forces allows for the employment of a DSM to work within the school to raise awareness of the Defence lifestyle and to support students of Defence families.
The program, administered by Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) (formerly known as Defence Community Organisation), reflects the commitment by Defence to support its members and their families and recognises the partnership between education authorities, Defence and schools.
Aim
The program aims to assist students in Defence families in four key areas throughout their education and as they move from one school to another. The key areas are:
- welcoming
- integrating
- support during deployment and absence; and
- farewelling
Through the program it is hoped that schools are assisted in achieving the following outcomes:
- Facilitation of a supportive educational environment for Defence families during times of change
- Establishment of ongoing programs and resources for use during and beyond the life of the program
- Linkage of Defence families into their local school community; and
- Provision of education resources to support the Defence student’s wellbeing.
Defence families who would like to contact me regarding their children can email: amy.adam@mn.catholic.edu.au
Key Dates 2025 |
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| Term 3 |
Monday 21 July - Friday 26 September |
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Friday 5 September |
Year 7 & Year 10 Vaccination Catch Up Day |
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Monday 8 September - Monday 22 September |
Year 11 Exams |
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Friday 26th September |
Pupil Free Day / Staff Development Day |
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Term 4 |
Monday 13 October - Friday 19 December |
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Thursday 16 October- Friday 7 November |
Year 12 HSC |
St Brigid’s, Raymond Terrace
(69 William Street)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5.30pm
Sunday 9.30am
Weekday Mass:
Tuesday 7.00am
Wednesday 7.00am
Friday 9.15am
St Christopher’s, Medowie
(On the site of Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5.30pm
Weekday Mass:
Tuesday 5.30pm
Friday 5.30pm
Our Lady Help of Christians, Mallabula
(1193 Lemon Tree Passage Road)
Weekend Mass:
Sunday 7.30am
Weekday Mass:
Thursday 9.15am
St Michael's, Nelson Bay
(12 Sproule St)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5.00pm
Sunday 8.30am
Weekday Mass:
Tuesday 5.00pm
Wednesday 9.15am
Thursday 5.00pm
Friday No Mass
St Brigid's, Buladelah
(26 Buladelah Way)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5:00pm (1st, 3rd & 5th Saturdays)
Sunday 8:30am (2nd & 4th Sundays)
St Stephen's, Tea Gardens
(Witt St)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5:00pm (2nd & 4th Saturdays)
Sunday 8:30am (1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays)
Our Lady of Rosary, Karuah
(Tarean Street)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 6:30pm (Vigil - 1st, 3rd & 5th Saturdays)
Sunday 8:30am (2nd & 4th Sundays)
St Peter-in-Chains, Stockton
(13 Dunbar Street)
Weekend Mass:
Sunday 9:00am
Weekday Mass:
Thursday 8.30am