Catherine McAuley Catholic College Medowie eNewsletter

Bernard Burgess

Matthew 17:5

Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

From the shining cloud the Father’s voice is heard:

this is my beloved Son, hear him.

Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Dear Catherine McAuley, Catholic College families,

The season of Lent continues and during these forty days in the lead up to Easter, as a Catholic community, we are called to be reflective in our own lives and compassionate towards others. These qualities sit comfortably into the charism and culture of CMCC and each of our students are encouraged to make them a part of their everyday life within the college.

Week eight seems to have arrived quickly in this eleven-week term and takes us well into the final stages of Term One. I continue to be impressed with the hospitality displayed by our students towards all visitors and newcomers to the college. The Mercy value of hospitality lives in this community and is a credit to all who have nurtured this in the now four years and one term the college has been open.

At a recent whole school assembly with our Mercy values of Faith in Action, Compassion, Hospitality and Courage as the foundation for my address, I spoke of the many examples of these values being lived out, in and amongst our students each day. Examples included, reverence and respect displayed in our college Liturgies and various assemblies, involvement and participation in the college Swimming Carnival and other community events, the positive rapport between our staff and students and between peers, and the positive learning culture in our classrooms and learning spaces.

Conversely, I spoke to the rare but significant matters that occur in schools at times that are not represented in our Mercy values at CMCC. These included but were not limited to, malicious damage to property, inappropriate and disrespectful language or behaviour directed towards or in response to staff and malicious physical contact with peers or other community members. Each of these matters were clearly communicated to our students as unacceptable at CMCC and that a lack of adherence to them would result in significant consequences including exclusion from the school for short or long periods depending on the circumstances.

I know that our families appreciate high expectations and standards in the college, continue to make CMCC a highly sought after school, to which many in the community aspire to be a part of. We appreciate working in partnership with our families to ensure those standards are always maintained.

As the final weeks of the first term of the school year continue, our families are encouraged to stay connected to their children’s education through regular contact with the school, especially where there may be worries or concerns regarding academic progress, social or wellbeing matters and of course in the spiritual and faith life of our students.

With best wishes for the final three weeks of Term 1

United in Mercy
Bernard Burgess
College Principal

Claudette Stace

Today is Harmony Day, an opportunity to celebrate our cultural diversity and promote respect, inclusiveness and a sense of belonging for all Australians. The theme this year is ‘Harmony – we all have a role to play’ which acknowledges the importance of celebrating diversity and standing up against racism together. Our Mercy values of courage, compassion, hospitality and faith in action really means that when we are true to our values, every day is a harmonious one for all students and teachers at Catherine McAuley Catholic College. On harmony day we wear orange to signify;

Social communication and meaningful conversations
Freedom of ideas and mutual respect
Cultural diversity and inclusivity

Last week we also celebrated International Women’s Day. We celebrated the global progress made in advancing women’s rights and honoured the legacy of Catherine McAuley, the Sisters of Mercy, and the countless women who have marched forward with compassion, justice, respect, hospitality, service and courage. Their commitment to education, advocacy and empowerment inspires the work that we do at CMCC each day. Our college was awash with purple and lots of positive and meaningful conversations about the important role of women in our lives.

Siobhan Kelly

'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.' (Matthew 25:40)

At Catherine McAuley Catholic College, we are called to live out the Gospel values by standing in solidarity with the most vulnerable in our global community. This year, we are proud to support Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion through our Water Walk event.

Project Compassion is Caritas Australia’s annual fundraising campaign, uniting schools, parishes, and communities across the country to address the ongoing challenges of poverty. Funds raised support remote and vulnerable communities across Asia, Africa, the Pacific, and here in Australia. Through your generosity, Project Compassion helps communities gain access to clean water, food security, skills training, health and sanitation, and disaster risk reduction training. Together, we can create lasting change today – and For All Future Generations.

In solidarity with those who do not have reliable access to clean water, McAuley students are invited to participate in our Water Walk. This event encourages students to reflect on the daily reality faced by many around the world and to take action to help make a difference.

Project Compassion Water Walk - Key details:

The Water Walk is an opt-in event.
Parents and carers must log into Compass to accept the invitation and provide permission.
Donations can be made online at: Catherine McAuley Catholic College • Project Compassion 2025

We invite all students, families, and friends to support this important cause. Your participation and generosity can help change lives – not only today but for generations to come. Together, let’s walk in faith, hope, and compassion.

Exciting Expansion of Faith Ministry Groups

We are thrilled to announce that our Ministry Faith Groups for students have expanded! In addition to PROCLAIM (Music), we are now introducing ENACT (Drama) and UNITE (Dance) – three vibrant groups designed to enrich the faith life of our CMCC community.

Each of these groups offers students a unique way to share their gifts and deepen their connection to our school’s spiritual life:

PROCLAIM (Music) continues to lead our liturgical celebrations through song, uplifting our community in praise and worship. This group is led by Elyse North and Lou Mavros.

ENACT (Drama) invites students to bring stories of faith to life through performance. Inspired by the call to live out our faith in action, ENACT empowers students to engage the community with powerful, faith-driven storytelling. This group will be led by Anastasia Griggs and myself.

UNITE (Dance) brings students together to express their faith through movement. Drawing on St. Paul’s message – “So we, though many, are one body in Christ” (Romans 12:5) – UNITE fosters a sense of togetherness, celebrating faith through dynamic, creative dance. UNITE will be led by Jordan Bowe and Amber Bradford, with support from myself.

Please join us in congratulating all the students participating in these wonderful groups. Their dedication and creativity will surely continue to inspire and enrich our community’s faith journey.

Thank you for your continued support and for helping us make a real, lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Bronwyn Denham

Year 12 College Captains: Lara, Amy and Destiny

International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is not just about celebrating women—it is about affirming the importance of gender equality in every part of life. It’s about acknowledging the contributions women make in every field—from education to healthcare, from leadership to science, from art to politics. It’s about celebrating the women who have shaped history, the women who continue to inspire us today, and the women who will lead us into the future.

Last Friday Lara, Amy, Nature, Isabella and myself (Destiny) alongside a Ms Stace, Mrs Denham and Ms Harrison attended an international women’s day breakfast held by Kate Washington, Meryl Swanson and Leah Anderson at the Marook Cultural Centre.

On this day, the 3 members of parliament shared their insights on the importance of gender equality, highlighting the crucial role that women play in shaping the future of our communities, our nation, and our world. They spoke of the progress we’ve made but also emphasized that true equality is still a goal we must continue to work toward.

Meryl informed us that around $543 billion dollars has been put into healthcare for women, $3 to $4 billion dollars into housing for domestic violence & recently the 10 days paid leave for women who have experienced domestic violence.

Student leaders from all secondary schools in our Port Stephens community then had the opportunity to speak on a panel answering different questions, many of girls emphasising the importance of being yourself, staying true to your morals, and being vulnerable.

Breaking the Stigma: Period Positivity in Our School

Periods are a natural part of life, yet stigma still exists. It’s time to foster an environment where menstruation is seen as normal and supported. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness and resources can make this experience stressful for some students.

A recent school survey highlighted key insights:

70% of students feel supported during menstruation, but 8% still feel unsupported.
90% of female students support having period products available in school bathrooms.
55% of female students occasionally or always miss school due to menstruation.

Recognising that period positivity extends beyond our school community, our student leaders are committed to making a real difference both inside and outside our school. We not only want to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for our peers but also extend our efforts to help those in need who may not have access to basic necessities.

Giving Back to the Community

Beyond our school, we aim to support those in need by partnering with Share the Dignity, a charity that provides sanitary products to women and girls experiencing homelessness or financial hardship. Lack of access to these essential items can significantly impact a person’s dignity, health, and daily life. By working together, we can help alleviate this struggle and bring a sense of comfort and security to those in need.

We invite all students to donate shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash, and sealed packets of pads or tampons to our community drive. Any contribution, no matter how small, can make a meaningful difference. These donations will be packed into care packages and distributed to shelters, crisis centers, and organizations supporting vulnerable women in our community.

This initiative is about more than just providing essential products—it’s about showing compassion, fostering community spirit, and acknowledging that period poverty is a real issue that we can help address. By coming together, we can ensure that no one has to face this struggle alone.

This campaign is just the beginning. Together, we can ensure that everyone—whether they menstruate or not—feels comfortable, included, and supported. Let’s continue to raise awareness and make Period Positivity the norm!

Thank you for your support—let’s make this campaign a success!

Scott Warnock

In the last edition of The Nest I made some brief comments on some of content being covered in Year 10 Study. In this edition, I want to provide a spotlight on this course and debunk some myths that may exist.

When Year 10 students first received their timetables a short 8 weeks ago (time flies!), many eyes lit up when they say ‘STUDY’ timetabled for a Thursday afternoon in Week B. For some, this eagerness was due to the possibility of 100-minutes of uninterrupted deep revision and assessment preparation where as for others, this 100-minute opportunity provided a potential opportunity to catch up on the latest episode from their streaming platform of choice, or perhaps peruse online shopping websites for that perfect hoodie for winter. But for the vast majority of students, they were unsure what to study or how to study for this period of time.

Our Year 10 Study program is multi-faceted. It provides us the opportunity to embed practical study skills for students to learn, implement and assess their effectiveness, scope for guest presentations from institutions such as TAFE NSW, Universities and industry partners, as well time for individual quiet study. Moreover, it provides space within the fortnightly timetable to meet some of the requirements from the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) including Minimum Standards Testing and All My Own Work. As students develop the academic maturity through their Year 10 year, we will gradually release the responsibility of self-directed study to them, particularly at busy times of the term.

This week’s study session featured an update from our Careers Adviser, Miss Cass Barnett. The opportunities available to students at CMCC are significant, and it has been pleasing to observe the manner in which students are registering their interest for these extra opportunities and courses. I would encourage all families to sit with their son or daughter and peruse the opportunities on the Careers Team page, and support them in meeting any administrative deadlines. One of exciting opportunities in Year 10 is work experience, and we are starting to disseminate information from this week.

The second key part of this week’s Study session was around Directive Verbs. Please see an excerpt from my presentation below:

The five directive verbs that we focussed on this week were:

Identify
Explain
Discuss
Justify
Evaluate

By unpacking each of these terms, in the context of what they are currently studying in Year 10, we are starting to teach students how to best answer an exam question, so that they can best demonstrate their knowledge and understanding.

This will be a skill which we will develop over time, as we look to optimise our capacity to be assessment-ready learners.

As always, if you would like to discuss your son or daughter, please do not hesitate to contact me.

United in Mercy

Scott Warnock

Aaron Mahony

It has been an exciting and productive time for our Year 7 and Year 8 students in Wati Endeavour House at Catherine McAuley. The students have been active participants in a variety of school events, demonstrating their growth as vital members of our school community. As Catherine McAuley once said, “A good community is one where people help each other and share the responsibility for one another’s welfare.” This sense of belonging and support has been clear in how Year 7 and Year 8 students engage with their peers and contribute to the vibrant life of our school. Over the past fortnight, Year 7 and Year 8 students have actively participated in many exciting activities, including Blazing Belles, Connection Club International Women's Day celebrations, and the Diocesan Swimming Carnival, with the upcoming school musical adding to the excitement. Through their participation in these community events, our students are continuously growing and contributing to a sense of belonging in the school community. I would also like to congratulate Year 7 on the way in which they conducted and applied themselves during their recent NAPLAN testing. The culture of striving to do your best was on show and is a great indicator for what is to come this year!

As a focus of our House Assembly next Monday, the focus turns to ensuring confidence in Wati House around assessment preparation and homework completion. One area that can make a significant difference in our students’ academic journey is the development of strong time management and study habits. Effective scheduling and prioritising tasks are vital to balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and downtime. In addition, Understanding and using feedback from assessments is key to academic success. I encourage families to sit down with their children to review the feedback received from upcoming assessments as they seek growth throughout 2025. This is an important step in identifying strengths and areas to improve. By setting clear goals and making small adjustments based on this feedback, students can boost their confidence and academic performance. For some practical tips in setting up quality practices as a family, visit https://www.edmentum.com/intl/articles/7-tips-for-parents-to-help-their-child-develop-effective-study-skills/ . A few strategies include breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and allocating specific times to work on each, prioritising assignments that are due soon or require more effort. Encouraging students to use planners or apps like Google Calendar to keep track of deadlines, assessments, and activities can also help them stay organised. Additionally, setting clear goals for each study session, such as completing one section of a project or reviewing a specific chapter, can help students stay on track. Minimising distractions by ensuring that students have a quiet and organised study space can also help them focus on their tasks without being sidetracked by social media or entertainment. By implementing these strategies, students can stay organised, reduce stress, and develop a strong sense of responsibility for their learning moving into their senior studies.

Year 7 and Year 8 are continuously becoming integral members of Catherine McAuley, and it’s a joy to see them grow in both their academic and personal journeys. Let’s continue to support one another and strengthen our community, knowing that every student plays a vital role in the shared experience of our school. To accommodate the positive start to the year, please find reflections from Year 7 on their experience since joining CMCC. In an amazing statistic, 93% of Year 7 outlined they have thoroughly enjoyed the start of High School and are developing positive relationships with peers and teachers. Below I have placed a snapshot of the reasoning behind this enjoyment and long may it continue in their educational journey.

I encourage any families seeking support or further information regarding Stage 4 studies to please reach out to aaron.mahony@mn.catholic.edu.au. I thank all Year 7 and Year 8 students for their efforts in Term 1 and look forward to working with them, journeying together.

Yours Faithfully,

Aaron Mahony- Head of House (Wati Discovery)

Summar Harrison

Inspiration Education – Setting up for Success

On Wednesday evening, I attended the virtual Inspiration Education – Setting Up for Success webinar, hosted by the University of Newcastle and Shane Hardcastle. With over 22 years of experience teaching PDHPE—including 15 years as Head Teacher across multiple schools—Shane has spent 12 years as an HSC Marker, ultimately serving as the Coordinating Senior Marker for Sports Medicine. His session was structured into three key parts: understanding the rules of the ‘game,’ mastering effective exam skills, and setting up for success.

Shane explored the concept of the Iceberg Illusion, as shown below. In this image, success is depicted as an iceberg—where only a small, visible portion represents what people see, while the vast majority remains hidden beneath the surface, symbolising the unseen effort and challenges behind achievement.

For our trailblazing Year 12 students completing their HSC, success is often seen only in final marks or an ATAR. However, what remains unseen is the hard work, dedication, sacrifices, and challenges that make it possible. Behind the scenes—through late-night study sessions, discipline, stress management, overcoming setbacks, and unwavering persistence inside and outside of the classroom —the overall message is that true success is built.

So how do we ‘build’ success? Shane discussed study strategies to set you up for success:

Understand how we learn: Learning happens most effectively when we use strategies that support memory and understanding.
- One key approach is repetition or memorisation, which strengthens long-term memory when given adequate time. Just like the requirement of 120 hours of practice before a driving test, repeated exposure helps information stick.
- Another important strategy is creating relationships and connections. We remember things better when we associate them with what we already know, such as linking a concept to a favourite song, a familiar scent, or specific dates. By combining repetition with meaningful connections, we can enhance our ability to learn and retain information.

Make notes > Practice > Review: Successful students start with the knowledge and understanding and then start the doing! Like Edgar Dale’s 1950’s metaphor for learning which, while not backed in research, reminds us that the more active we are in our learning, the more we tend to remember.

Make lists and set priorities: making lists and setting priorities are essential strategies for effective study. Breaking down subjects into manageable tasks and ranking them based on importance or difficulty ensures that time is spent efficiently. By combining structured repetition with meaningful connections—such as linking concepts to real-life examples—students can reinforce their understanding while staying organised and focused on their goals.
Prepare for class, pre-read, and pay attention: High achieving students do not walk into class and expect to learn. They prepare, use time class effectively, and ask questions.
Find an accountability partner: Find someone that can help you stick to your study goals and plans. Perhaps it is someone taking your phone away for an hour. Finding an accountability partner can help when you find yourself in the valley of procrastination.

I encourage all Year 12 students to adopt the study strategies that are best suited to them and to, of course, reach out to me if they find themselves in the Valley of Procrastination or in need of any support throughout the HSC year.

Study Skills – Session 2: Directive Verb Deconstruction
This week we ran our third Study Skills Session. This session focused on deconstructing directive verbs. Directive verbs, sometimes referred to as ‘command’ or ‘instruction’ words, are those that give instructions about what you are required to do to answer a HSC question. Understanding these terms will assist students in better preparing for their exams. There will be another session on deconstructing directive verbs:

Session 2: Week 9, Monday 24th March, Break 1, DO102

The following link will take you to the official NESA HSC Glossary of Key Words that will be the focus of these sessions. Please encourage your child to attend this session to support their HSC preparation: NESA HSC Glossary

Reminder: Year 12 Graduation
Whilst we are many months away from celebrating the completion of Year 12, I wanted to remind you of the date for the Year 12 School Graduation - 6th of November 2025 at Wests City, Newcastle. We will provide more information to parents and carers as the date draws nearer.

Loretta Browne

A Busy Time Ahead for Year 11 Students

The coming weeks mark a significant period for Year 11 students as they juggle assessments, coursework, and extracurricular commitments. With increasing academic expectations, it is essential to establish productive study habits and maintain a well balanced lifestyle to set the foundation for success in both Year 11 and beyond.

One of the most crucial steps to academic success is developing good study habits. Establishing a consistent study routine helps improve focus and retention of information. Setting specific goals for each session, using active learning techniques, and taking regular breaks can all enhance productivity. By forming these habits now, students will be well-prepared for the demands of Year 12 and beyond.

Creating an effective study space at home is another key factor in maintaining focus and motivation. A quiet, well organized, and distraction free environment can make a significant difference in study efficiency. Ensuring that the space is comfortable and equipped with the necessary materials can help students stay on track and minimize procrastination. A great tip is to remove your phone from you study space to avoid distractions. Try it you may be surprised how productive you can be without the distraction.

Speaking with teachers about study strategies for each subject can provide valuable insights into the most effective ways to prepare. Each subject requires a different approach, whether it be practicing past papers for math, summarising key concepts for science, or refining essay-writing techniques for English. Teachers can offer guidance on time management, exam techniques, and essential areas to focus on, ensuring that students study smarter, not just harder.

Balancing school, work, study, and sport is vital for overall wellbeing and success. While academic achievement is important, maintaining a healthy lifestyle by engaging in physical activity, socialising with friends, and allowing time for relaxation helps reduce stress and prevent burnout. Planning a weekly schedule that includes time for study, extracurricular activities, and personal downtime will help students stay motivated and maintain a positive mindset and avoid stress.

The next few weeks will be a busy period, but with the right strategies and mindset, Year 11 students can navigate these challenges successfully. By building strong study habits, setting up an effective study space, seeking support from teachers, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, students will be well equipped to achieve their best both academically and personally.

Thank you all for your continued support of your child over the first weeks of Year 11 and please reach out at any time: loretta.browne@mn.catholic.edu.au

United in Mercy,

Loretta Browne
Year 11 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement

Robert Bain

As we reach the end of Term 1, it’s wonderful to reflect on the ongoing theme of ‘Pride’ that has been the focus of our work with Year 10 students this term. Our exploration of pride has been diverse, encompassing not only personal pride in one’s work and actions but also pride in our shared identity as a school and wider community.

Recently, students have been actively engaging with a variety of important observances that align with the theme of pride. In celebration of International Women’s Day, students reflected on the achievements and contributions of women across the world, fostering a greater appreciation for equality and respect. They were encouraged to think critically about the roles women play in society and how we can all contribute to creating an environment where everyone is valued equally.

Following that, during Harmony Week, the Year 10 cohort embraced the diversity of our community, celebrating cultural inclusivity and mutual respect. Harmony Week provided a powerful opportunity for students to learn more about the rich variety of cultures that make up our nation and to reflect on how we can promote understanding and unity in our everyday lives.

Our shared spiritual journey continued with the celebration of Lent, where students took part in various activities designed to deepen their faith and understanding of this season of reflection and sacrifice. Lent offers a reminder of the importance of humility, gratitude, and service to others—values that connect to our theme of pride in both our personal lives and as members of the broader community.

Looking ahead, assessments are fast approaching, and students are encouraged to continue their hard work and preparation. We are confident they will apply the pride they’ve cultivated this term into their assessments, reflecting on their growth and achievements. We will be sharing a detailed assessment schedule and any necessary resources with students soon.

As always, we continue to encourage Year 10 students to reflect on the concept of pride, especially in relation to the values of respect, responsibility, and kindness. It’s exciting to see them applying these principles in their studies, in their interactions with peers, and in their growing sense of personal identity.

Thank you for your continued support in helping foster these values at home. We look forward to seeing how these lessons unfold throughout the remainder of the term.

United in Mercy
Robert Bain
Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement (Year 10)

Taylor Joyce

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we approach the end of Term 1, I want to take a moment to thank you for your ongoing support and to acknowledge the fantastic efforts of our Year 9 students. Their enthusiasm, leadership, and participation in recent school events have been truly commendable.

Year 9 in Action

Our students demonstrated incredible school spirit and leadership at the recent Swimming Carnival and as participants of our International Women’s Day celebrations. Many put in their best effort in the pool and around the College, while others cheered on their peers with great enthusiasm. It has also been heartwarming to see Year 9 students supporting younger year groups in navigating our evolving campus spaces. Their kindness and respect have not gone unnoticed.

A huge congratulations to all Year 9 students on completing their final NAPLAN assessments. I am incredibly proud of how they conducted themselves in a formal exam setting. A special thank you to Mr. Matthew Klopper as the test administrator, as well as our Year 9 inclusive pedagogies team, Lyndsay Klopper and Vanessa Peterson, for their invaluable support. If your child experienced any anxiety during this process, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we want to ensure they feel confident as they move into future examination periods.

Student Expectations and School Environment

We have recently noticed an increase in litter being left in the yard, and I would like to remind students to take responsibility for keeping our school clean. Additionally, chewing gum is a banned item at school, and any student found with it will have it confiscated.

Uniform infringements are also being monitored closely. As per College policy, three uniform breaches will result in a restore session. If this occurs, you will receive an automatically generated email informing you of the issue. Thank you for your ongoing support of College policies and procedures.

Wellbeing and Learning

In their recent LEA sessions, students have been focusing on the negative impacts of vaping, as well as completing their NAPLAN assessments. As we progress through the term, I encourage parents to check in with their child about their organisation and workload. If they require additional support, please reach out to their classroom teachers or Leaders of Learning.

Upcoming Events and Opportunities

Water Walk: Raising Awareness and Support

On Thursday, 3 April (Week 10), McAuley students are invited to participate in a Water Walk to raise funds for Project Compassion and to stand in solidarity with those around the world who lack reliable access to safe water.

Event Details:

Time: 6:30 AM departure, returning by 8:30 AM for a light breakfast at CMCC
Location: Walk from CMCC to Medowie Creek (35 Ferodale Road, Medowie)
Purpose: To raise funds and awareness for those who must walk long distances for clean water
Fundraising Goal: $1,000 for Project Compassion
Special Incentive: If we surpass our fundraising goal, our SLT has agreed to be dunked in a bucket of water at the end of the event!

How You Can Help:

Please complete the RSVP form and indicate if you are available to assist with the event: RSVP Form
If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, please consider donating to our Project Compassion page: Catherine McAuley Catholic College • Project Compassion 2025

The Importance of Cocurricular Activities

Engaging in cocurricular activities is a valuable way for students to develop essential life skills such as time management, teamwork, and leadership. It also helps them build positive peer connections and discover new passions.

At our school, we offer a variety of activities, including sports teams, performing arts, academic competitions, and environmental groups. We also encourage students to explore new opportunities or even initiate their own projects. Some of our lunchtime clubs include music, connection club, Blazing Belles, and various diocesan sports teams.

I have included some resources below on the benefits of extracurricular involvement. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s wellbeing and engagement at school, please feel free to reach out.

Yours in Mercy,

Taylor Joyce

Lucy Koch

Dear Parents and Carers,

I'm delighted to share some positive highlights from the past few weeks with our Year 8 cohort.

Harmony Week

This week, we celebrated Harmony Week, a significant occasion for our school community. During Monday's LEA session, students engaged in a variety of activities designed to foster understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity (pictured below). These experiences provided valuable opportunities for students to learn from one another and reinforce the importance of respect and inclusivity. Further to this, on Friday 21/03 CMCC will be holding various activities throughout the day to celebrate Harmony Day, with students able to wear orange accessories for the occasion.

Challenge Yourself

We are also thrilled to see the increasing number of opportunities available for students in representative sport, drama, and music. In my address to the year group on Monday, I encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones and take advantage of these enriching experiences. Participating in these activities not only allows students to develop their skills and talents but also builds confidence and fosters a sense of belonging. We encourage you to support your child in exploring these opportunities and discovering their passions.

Whole-school Focus

Furthermore, I want to acknowledge the positive impact of our recent whole-school focus on reducing litter. The concerted effort during Break Two on Monday resulted in a significant improvement in the cleanliness of our school environment. This collective action demonstrates the students' ability to work together and take pride in their school community. We appreciate your support in reinforcing the importance of maintaining a clean and respectful environment.

We continue to be impressed by the enthusiasm and engagement of our Year 8 students. We believe in nurturing their potential and providing them with a supportive environment to thrive.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership in your child's education.

United in Mercy

Lucy Koch

James Moore

I am excited to be back on deck as the Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement after my time on paternity leave. I would like to thank Mrs Stoneman, who took great care of Year 7 in my absence. Her dedication and support ensured a smooth start to the year for our students, and I truly appreciate her efforts.

It has been wonderful to see the Year 7 students settling in, embracing new challenges, and forming strong connections within our school community. Their enthusiasm and resilience have been evident, and I look forward to seeing their continued success as the year progresses.

I would like to thank and congratulate the students for the responsible way they approached NAPLAN. They conducted themselves with maturity and focus, ensuring a smooth and successful assessment process. It was great to see their commitment to doing their best, and I encourage them to use this experience as a learning opportunity for future growth.

In the coming weeks during LEA time, we will continue to focus on the value of Belonging and what it truly means to be part of a supportive and inclusive community. At CMCC, we strive to create an environment where every student feels valued, accepted, and connected. Through discussions and activities, students will explore how small acts of kindness, empathy, and understanding can strengthen their relationships with others. By embracing this value, we continue to build a culture of respect and care, ensuring that everyone has a place where they feel they belong.

Reminder: Vaccinations will be taking place on Friday, 28th March. Please ensure you log into compass and provide consent where required.

Lastly some exciting news about camp! Year 7 students will have the exciting opportunity to attend The Great Aussie Bush Camp in Term 2, Week 2, from Wednesday, 7th May to Friday, 9th May 2025. This camp is a fantastic chance for students to build resilience, strengthen friendships, and challenge themselves in a fun and supportive environment. Students will depart at 9:00 am on Wednesday from CMCC and return in time for normal buses on Friday afternoon.

More information, including packing lists and consent details, will be distributed in the coming weeks.

I look forward to working with the students and families of Year 7 so please don’t hesitate to reach out if you require support: james.moore@mn.catholic.edu.au

United in Mercy

Geraldine Whiteside - Jenny Newling

The Hub 2025

This year, The Hub team has expanded, welcoming new members and strengthening our commitment to student success. Together, we continue to foster an inclusive and empowering environment through four key areas:

Inclusive Pedagogies – Championing equitable teaching practices that support diverse learning needs.
Cultural Hub – Celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of belonging through cultural engagement.
English as a Second Language/Dialect (EALD) – Providing language support and resources for multilingual students.
Beyond The Gates – Connecting and supporting families to ensure a strong foundation for student success.

With our expanding team, we are more committed than ever to creating a welcoming and supportive space where every student and their family feels valued and included.

The Hub is open during Break 1 as a social space for connection and a supported alternative to the playground. During Break 2, it serves as a dedicated area for assessment and homework support, helping students stay on track with their learning in an encouraging environment.

Stay connected with us for upcoming initiatives and opportunities to be involved!

Matthew Klopper

Leveraging Data to Enhance Student Success

In an era where data is generated at an unprecedented rate, harnessing its power effectively is essential for institutions striving to drive meaningful change. At CMCC, data plays an increasingly vital role in shaping student outcomes, guiding initiatives, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

A 2021 study by IDC estimated that the global datasphere would reach 175 zettabytes by 2025, highlighting the sheer volume of information being created and collected. This explosion of data presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in education. The challenge is not just in gathering data but in transforming it into actionable insights that positively impact students' academic journeys.

New Initiatives to Support Student Wellbeing and Academic Growth

CMCC is running two groundbreaking initiatives designed to make data more accessible and actionable: the Wellbeing Wall and the Insight and Ignite improvement cycle.

The Wellbeing Wall provides a holistic view of students by integrating multiple streams of data, including standardised testing results, attendance records, wellbeing reports, and academic performance metrics. This user-friendly interface enables wellbeing leaders, learning and engagement advisors (LEAs), and teachers to gain a comprehensive understanding of each student’s progress. By putting a face to the data, educators can tailor their support to better meet individual student needs.

Meanwhile, the Insight and Ignite improvement cycle takes a proactive approach to academic growth. Through this program, faculty teams analyse Numeracy and Literacy data, identify areas where students are struggling, and implement targeted teaching strategies to address these challenges. Continuous monitoring and evaluation ensure that interventions are effective, allowing for real-time adjustments that optimise student success.

Transforming Data into Meaningful Change

Ultimately, the impact of data is not determined by its sheer volume but by how it is used to drive positive change. These initiatives represent a significant step towards harnessing data-driven insights to create a more supportive and effective learning environment at CMCC. By fostering collaboration among educators and leveraging the latest analytical tools, the school remains committed to helping every student reach their full potential.

As CMCC continues to embrace innovation in education, these data-driven strategies will play a crucial role in shaping a brighter future for all students.

Erin Jordan

Greetings Parents and Students,

Please see below the remaining Assessment Tasks for the term.

Year 12

Year 11

Year 10

Year 9

Year 8

Year 7

This is a perfect opportunity to start the academic year strong and prepare for these tasks at home and in class, to put your best foot forward for 2025.

Mathew Bailey

College Swimming Carnival

The 2025 College Swimming Carnival was held at the end of Week 4, on what was a nice cooler day. It was fantastic to see so many students attend and take part in an actioned packed day. The high participation rate led to some competitive racing, but most importantly, plenty of fun.

A huge thank you to all staff for ensuring the day ran smoothly. Our students deserve credit for their excellent team spirit and sportsmanship.

Congratulations to the Coolock Emus who were crowned the Sporting Team Champions of the Swimming Carnival. A further congratulations to the following students who were crowned Age Champions for 2025:

Age Champions	Girls	Boys
12 Years	Lillie Traynor	No Winner
13 Years	Clair Cousins	Ryan Poole
14 Years	Lucy De Souza	Kynan Ogilvie
15 Years	Sophia Buckland	Thomas Lynch
16 Years	Annabelle Brown	William Parker
17+ Years	Olivia Gray	Alexander Ford

Diocesan Swimming Carnival

Following our swimming carnival, our college sent a team of thirty swimmers to compete in the annual Diocesan Swimming Carnival. It was a very competitive day of racing against other schools in the Diocese, with our students giving it their all.

Several students placed either first or second in their individual events, including our Boys Intermediate Age Relay team, qualifying for the NSWCCC Swimming Championships. Congratulations to William Bradshaw (Year 12), Lachlan Webster (Year 11), Alexander Ford (Year 11), Harry Cousins (Year 11), Sebastian Webster (Year 10), Chance Sandstrom (Year 10), William Parker (Year 10) and Thomas Lynch (Year 9) who will now compete in Sydney later this term. Best of luck!

A big thank you to the parents and carers who attended the event to support our swimmers. We also extend our gratitude to Mrs Browne, Ms Koch and Mrs Denham for their hard work in ensuring the day ran smoothly.

Diocesan Boys & Girls Under-15s Rugby League

Earlier this term, some of our college students trialled for the Diocesan Boys & Girls Under-15s Rugby League teams. The trials featured highly skilled players from across all secondary schools in the Diocese, each competing for a place in the squad.

Congratulations to Claire Dorahy (Year 10) and Luke West (Year 9) who were selected in their respective teams. We wish Claire and Luke all the best when they compete in the Northern NSWCCC Rugby League Championships later this term.

Diocesan Touch Football

Last week, six of our college students participated in the Under-15s and Opens Boys and Girls Diocesan Touch Trials. Playing multiple games throughout the day, showcasing their skills in hopes of securing a place in the Diocesan team.

Congratulations to Amelia Nicholas (Year 11) and Heidi Gibson (Year 10) on their selection into the Girls Opens team. They will now represent the Diocese at the upcoming NSWCCC Touch Championships. Best of luck girls!

NSWCCC Tennis

Congratulations to Rachel Jenkins (Year 9) for her efforts, competing in the NSWCCC Tennis Tournament held in Parramatta this week. Facing some strong competition from students across Catholic schools statewide, Rachel performed exceptionally well in the round-robin format. She progressed to the second round of the competition. Despite this result, it remains a fantastic achievement.

Well done, Rachel!

Senior Boys & Girls Soccer Knockout

During Week 8, our Open Boys’ and Girls’ Soccer teams competed in the annual Diocesan Knockout Gala Day held at Speers Point.

The Girls’ team played with determination throughout the day, putting up strong performances but falling just short in closely contested matches against All Saints’ College, St Paul’s, and St Joseph’s, Lochinvar. Despite the results, the girls displayed great teamwork and resilience.

The Boys’ team put in a strong effort, securing some hard-fought draws and narrowly missing out on victory against St Clare’s, Taree, St Joseph’s, St Francis Xavier, and St Mary’s, Gateshead. Their performances demonstrated grit and determination, competing well against tough opposition.

A big thank you to Eli Baas and Parker Penfold (Year 11) for coaching the Girls’ team as part of their VET Sports Coaching course, and to Mrs Browne and Mr Finall for coaching the teams on the day. Congratulations to all players for representing CMCC with great sportsmanship and enthusiasm.

Blake Jamison

It’s been a busy and exciting start to 2025, with a variety of fun competitions and challenges keeping students engaged across all year levels. From card games to sports and trivia, there has been something for everyone, and the competition has been fierce!

UNO

The UNO competition, which ran from Week 3 to Week 6, saw some intense rounds and plenty of “Draw Four” drama. Bailey Kent (Year 12) and Zac Hearfield (Year 8) were a couple of our standout players this year.

Handball

Our annual Handball competition continues to be a huge success. Students from all year groups showcased their competitive spirit, with some high-energy matches full of skill and strategy. Ultimately, it was Mason Hopely (Year 12) who claimed victory, earning the title of Handball champion for 2025.

Pickleball

Week 7 saw the start of the highly anticipated Pickleball competition. Students have thoroughly enjoyed trying their hand at a rapidly growing, fast-paced sport. The energy has been infectious, and it has been great to see so many students getting involved. Who will come out on top?

Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza

TCGCP has been a great way for students to unwind and have some laughs with friends. This hilarious game has quickly become a favourite among students during break times. The rules are simple, but the speed and quick reflexes required make it a game of constant surprises. We can’t wait to see how the rest of the competition unfolds.

Unlock the Box

Unlock the Box is back for a second year! Students have been working together in their LEA classes to solve trivia-style questions for a chance to unlock the coveted prize box at the end of term. Topics have ranged from fun facts about teachers to Pokémon knowledge and even flags of the world. It is a great way for students to get to know their peers and LEA teacher while enjoying a little friendly competition.

Multi-Sport Cup

The Multi-Sport Cup has also taken off with a bang! Students have been competing against each other in their LEA classes in various challenges like sit-down volleyball and dodgeball. The competition will continue throughout the year, with the winning LEA class in each year group earning the prestigious title of LEA Multi-Sport Cup champions and a well-deserved pizza lunch.

As always, these competitions and challenges provide a fantastic way to build school spirit, make new friends, and enjoy some healthy competition. I am looking forward to seeing how the rest of the term unfolds!

Sophie Hankin's Rotary Exchange Program to Taiwan

My name is Sophie Hankin and I went on a Rotary Youth Exchange to Taiwan between years 2024-2025. Last week I honourably represented my Rotary district 9660, and Catherine McAuley Catholic College as their first exchange student ever. The Rotary Youth Exchange Program offers students a unique opportunity to embark on the journey of a life time, encouraging personal growth and cultural education. Some of the most amazing aspects of my exchange were: My school, culture shocks, friends, solo travelling, and the end.

School for me in Taiwan for the most part was enjoyable. I never experienced any kind of racism or discrimination; in fact it was the total opposite. I got gifts daily from chocolates to necklaces, and the students were all very curious about me. They would yell my name, we’d take photos together, and practice English/Chinese. The floor toilets were a shock and my school was cleaned by the students. I was in the Tourism department so I would help in English class and we would go on excursions outside of class. The biggest culture shock initially for me was functionality > aesthetics. In comparison to Australia, Taiwan is less modern and less environmentally friendly. Taiwan has a fast service culture and their people really like eating all of the organs of an animal, especially on Chinese New Year. Overall, Taiwanese people are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met, they’re so welcoming and helped me whenever I was struggling to get around.

My favourite part of my entire exchange was friends, they are what made my best moments. We’d make last minute plans and then talk for hours, have picnics along the lakes, have dinner dates, riding in the city at night, and karaoke until 5am. I got along really well with my districts and have made lifelong friends despite our different upbringing and culture. The trips we get throughout the year were the valuable memories. Penghu is the Hawaii of Taiwan; those three nights have to be the best of my life. It was totally chaotic, but the exchange students and I had bounds of fun with different activities including wandering the rainbow bridge, falling off jetskis, fishing, and eating cactus ice cream. On the last night of the trip, we went to watch the incredible fireworks and saw the sunrise while roaming the streets together having to give each other piggybacks because our feet were so tired.

On exchange you have to learn how to find comfort and peace in solitude, I had to learn how to totally be independent. I did anything you can think of alone, I ate at restaurants, shopped, fed myself, caught a plane and public transport in another language, hiked, explored the city and countryside, rode bikes, went to the cinema, museum, and church, all alone. I decided to completely block my comfort zone by doing so I met the most amazing people. I learnt a language that has over 1 billion native speakers (imagine the number of new friends and connections I can make now!), and I have gained a deeper understanding of what values like gratitude really are, not realizing the things, people, and places I had until I didn’t. Taiwan wasn’t even my first choice, but I absolutely adore their culture, nature, city, language, and people; and my amazing city, Keelung.

How to apply to go on exchange: (15-17 years old ONLY)
Find your local rotary club and contact them expressing interest to join and become an exchange student.
Join some meetings and do some volunteering (Help out in the community! That’s what Rotary is all about).
Persist in joining activities, and kindly ask them to sponsor you.
Apply (BEFORE APRIL) to district 9660’s exchange program, contact them via email or phone.
Get an interview and attend 2 orientation days.
The exchange is $9000 (minus daily activities and personal purchases. Host families will feed you and offer monthly payments around $100).
Do a lot of paperwork and get ready to embark on the best year of your life!

Key Dates 2025
Monday 10 March	International Womens Day -Seniors Breakfast
Wednesday 12 March	NAPLAN Year 7 and Year 9 commences
Wednesday 12 March	Year 7 information evening and College Open Day Date to be confirmed
Friday 28 March	Vaccinations Year 7
Wednesday 2 April	Year 10 Stage 6 Pathways Information Evening New Date in Term 2 to be confirmed
Friday 4 April	College Cross Country
Thursday 10 April	Last Day for Students
Friday 11 April	Pupil Free Day
Monday 14 April - Friday 25 April	Easter holiday break
Monday 28 April	Pupil Free Day
Friday 2 May	Vaccinations Year 10
Wednesday 7 May - Friday 9 May	Year 7 Camp
Monday 12 May	Winter Uniform
Friday 16 May	Mothers Day Breakfast
Friday 23 May	Year 7, 2026 Enrolments close
Monday 2 June	Examination Week commences
Monday 9 June	Kings Birthday Public Holiday
Monday 23 June	Year 10 Work Experience commences
Monday 30 June	Year 11 VET student work placements
Thursday 3 July	College Athletics Carnival
Friday 4 July	Pupil Free Day

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

Bernard Burgess

Matthew 17:5

Claudette Stace

Siobhan Kelly

Bronwyn Denham

Scott Warnock

Aaron Mahony

Summar Harrison

Loretta Browne

Robert Bain

Taylor Joyce

Lucy Koch

James Moore

Geraldine Whiteside - Jenny Newling

Matthew Klopper

Leveraging Data to Enhance Student Success

New Initiatives to Support Student Wellbeing and Academic Growth

Transforming Data into Meaningful Change

Erin Jordan

Year 12

Year 11

Year 10

Year 9

Year 8

Year 7

Mathew Bailey

Blake Jamison

Sophie Hankin's Rotary Exchange Program to Taiwan

Key Dates 2025

St Brigid’s, Raymond Terrace

(69 William Street)

St Christopher’s, Medowie

(On the site of Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie)

Our Lady Help of Christians, Mallabula

(1193 Lemon Tree Passage Road)

St Michael's, Nelson Bay

(12 Sproule St)

St Brigid's, Buladelah

(26 Buladelah Way)

St Stephen's, Tea Gardens

(Witt St)

Our Lady of Rosary, Karuah

(Tarean Street)

St Peter-in-Chains, Stockton

(13 Dunbar Street)

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