Filter Content
- A Message from the Principal
- A Prayer for the Community
- 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)
- Trial HSC Exam Timetable
- A Message from the Careers Advisor
- A message from Student Services
- Bus Travel
- High School Musical
- Mercy Poster Art Competition
- DIOSOUNDS
- Ranier Schoolwear
- Upcoming Events - Term 2 2025
- Parish Mass Times
Bernard Burgess
The 6th Sunday of Easter
John 14:23
Alleluia, alleluia! All who love me will keep my words,
and my Father will love them and he will come to them.
Alleluia!
Dear Catherine McAuley Catholic College families,
What a week it has been weather wise! Thank you to all our families for their support and understanding throughout a trying week of road closures, bus cancellations, heavy rain and some traffic chaos. These events are challenging for any school, but flexibility and resilience were shown in the CMCC community during this week, and we hope and pray that the worst of this weather event is now behind us.
This week I was fortunate to attend part of the Association of Catholic Schools Principals (ACSP) Conference in the Hunter Valley. Amongst the keynote speakers and workshop providers were Dr Yong Zhao (University of Kansas and former director of the Confucious Institute) speaking on “Educational Transformation in the Age of AI”, Derek Wenmoth, a leader in New Zealand’s future focussed education model speaking on “Fostering Hope Through Systems Thinking and Future – Focussed Education” and Austen Ivereigh on “The Pope as Storm - Pilot : Horizons of Hope in a Time of Turbulence”.
Each of the speakers challenged principals in their thinking about the way our young people are educated spiritually, academically and wellbeing wise in an ever-changing world. And furthermore, to plan for ensuring our students are not just prepared for the future, but that they in fact are equipped to be “future makers”.
At CMCC we are blessed with a staff who are dedicated to the growth and development of the whole person and who are innovators in their provision of learning experiences for their student learners. As a college we will always endeavour to ensure our graduates are not only positive contributors to society in future, but that they will also help to shape the future.
The CMCC Mother’s Day Breakfast on Friday 16th May was a wonderful occasion for the college with over four hundred attendees throughout the morning. It was a delight to see so many of our students share some quality time with their mums, grandmothers, aunts and mother figures. It was equally delightful to see our Hospitality students and Musicians share their gifts ad talents to ensure this occasion was special in so many ways. Thank you to all who attended and shared this special CMCC community occasion.
We look forward to a more settled week ahead and as always thank our families for working in partnership with the college.
United in Mercy
Bernard Burgess
College Principal
Claudette Stace
I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all our staff and families as we have navigated the impact of the recent natural disaster on our CMCC community. Thanks to all for your calm, compassion and coordinated response. Your support and understanding helped ensure the safety and well-being of our students and school community.
In times of uncertainty, it’s the strength of our collective spirit that shines through. We are incredibly proud of how our community came together with patience, resilience, and kindness for each other.
Families impacted by the recent floods please reach out for support.
Cyberbullying is one of the most prevalent online harms experienced by children and adolescents.
So, what protective strategies can we put in place to help protect our loved ones from cyberbullying?
An evidence review was completed by the NSW Government in August 2024 which found that cyberbullying interventions are more effective if the child/adolescents’ broader social environments are also considered. Let’s look at the key points below.
Family:
- Children and adolescents with a positive family environment, greater parental warmth and more interaction with their parents are less likely to cyberbully or be cyberbullied
- Parental monitoring of online usage
- Parents having open discussions and co-creating rules for online usage with their child/adolescent
- Only restricting online usage does not appear effective and may increase the risk of cyberbullying others
School:
- Promoting a positive school climate
- Providing a sense of safety and belonging
- Clear rules, boundaries and follow through
- Staff who treat students with respect, fairness and kindness
Peer:
- Positive peer influence
- Greater belonging at school
- Feeling safe at school
- Social norms – cyberbullying not being an acceptable or appropriate norm
Individual:
- Individuals with higher self-esteem and/or better emotional management are less likely to cyberbully or be cyberbullied
- Individuals with higher empathy and more positive attitudes are less likely to cyberbully
- Individuals with greater self-awareness and more positive self-related attitude are protective factors for being cyberbullied but not for cyberbullying
- Spending less time online especially on their own devices in privacy
Overall, findings suggest that protecting children and adolescents from cyberbullying is more than just one person’s responsibility. Strategies to address Cyberbullying at different levels, involving multiple stakeholders (education system leaders, school leaders, parents/carers, community members, etc.) are needed. If you would like to read more on the evidence review you can here.
Remember, if you or someone you know is experiencing cyberbullying, follow these steps:
- Collect evidence – take screenshots, note down the user profile, date/time it was shared and the URL
- Report harmful content – Cyberbullying should be reported directly to the platform that was used to share the harmful content. If the platform does not remove the post then a report can be made to the e-safety commissioner for review: Report forms | eSafety Commissioner.
- Prevent further contact – Do not respond, ignore, mute or block the user. Tighten your privacy settings.
United in Mercy
Siobhan Kelly
As we journey through this term, we have continued to nurture the faith life of our CMCC community, providing opportunities for both staff and students to engage in prayer and reflection.
Our Year 7 students recently experienced a meaningful liturgy during their camp, centred on the Gospel of Matthew 7:24–29 and building a strong foundation for their high school years at CMCC.
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock.” (Matthew 7:24)
In this liturgy, students reflected on the idea that a life lived in accordance with Jesus’s teachings is like a house founded on rock – one that is able to withstand life’s inevitable storms. We discussed how, at CMCC, we build this strong foundation by practicing kindness, showing hospitality, standing up for what is right, seeking help when needed, giving our best efforts, and being a trustworthy friend. Students responded to this Gospel message through a rock art activity whereby they made a visual representation of their commitment to building a strong foundation for their time at CMCC.
Looking ahead, our Year 8 Reflection Day is scheduled for Monday, 16 June, providing students with an opportunity to build positive self-image and self-esteem by exploring what it means to be made in God’s image. As part of this Reflection Day, students will also look at how they can ‘love thy neighbour’ and contribute to building a strong faith community at CMCC.
Additionally, we invite all families to join us for a special liturgy celebrating Catholic Schools Week on Friday, 6 June at 8:30 am in the College Chapel.
Students still have the opportunity to subit an artwork that creatively depicts Catherine McAuley living her faith in action, incorporating one of the Mercy values. Artworks must include the Mercy Cross, the yellow Catherine McAuley rose, and be submitted on A3 paper by Friday 30 May (Week 5). Winners will receive canteen vouchers, and their work will be proudly displayed throughout the school.
In drawing on the reflections shared with our Year 7 group this term, may we continue to build upon our strong foundation here at CMCC and live out our Mercy values of compassion, courage, hospitality and faith in action.
United in Mercy,
Siobhan Kelly
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As Term 2 gains momentum, Wati House has stepped forward with energy, focus, and a renewed commitment to making the most of every opportunity at CMCC. The message guiding our House this term is clear: own your journey—in the classroom, in relationships, and in the life of the College. With Year 7 & Year 8, it is my hope that we can continue to strive to be our authentic self at school and bring out the best of themselves. To assist this messaging occurring in LEA sessions, I encourage all families to discuss this messaging and approach to our student’s life at school. This resource from the ‘Habits of mind institute’ is a great resource for home conversations and the themes will be the focus of activities here at school.
https://www.habitsofmindinstitute.org/four-ways-to-bring-your-authentic-self-to-school/
Catherine McAuley once said, "The simplest and most practical lesson I know is to resolve to be good today, but better tomorrow." This mindset has shaped our conversations with students across Year 7 and Year 8, encouraging each young person in Wati to take ownership of their learning, their effort, and their aspirations. Through our student recognition and Mercy Value Wards, our House meeting explored the importance of striving to be your best and celebrating your peer’s success. Another opportunity to push oneself and strive for success is the upcoming Assessment Tasks across Wati House. Please find the schedule below and reach out to the relevant teachers or Leaders of Learning if any questions arise.
I would personally like to thank Year 7 Leader of Wellbeing, Mr James Moore and Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing, Miss Lucy Koch for their ongoing support of students in our care. For any concerns or inquiries, please contact and utilise their care and expertise of our students. As always, please reach out at aaron.mahony@mn.catholic.edu.au. I thank all Year 7 and Year 8 students for their efforts to start Term 2 and look forward to working with them, journeying together.
United in Mercy,
Wati Discovery House Leaders
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There is no doubt that the busyness of Term 2 is in full swing with students readily preparing themselves for formal assessment tasks, our musicians busily rehearsing for their varied ensembles and our sportspeople striving to succeed, whilst keeping sportsmanship at the centre of their competitive spirits. As the pace of the term continues to increase, I wholeheartedly encourage parents and caregivers to work with their children, and the child’s teachers, to ensure that they are across the relevant detail. As always, should you require further clarification or support, please do not hesitate to contact a classroom teacher, relevant Leader of Learning or Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement, or myself as Head of Watha Endeavour House.
In Week 3, Watha House students were fortunate to participate in the Startups @ School program, organised by our College’s Careers Adviser, Ms Cassie Barnett. In this session, students witnessed a presentation from Jess Hodge, the co-founder of Resourceful Living, a plastics recycling company based out of the Hunter Valley. Some students also then participated in an Entrepreneurial Workshop with staff from the University of Newcastle which further engaged our learners in the diverse opportunities available to our students.
Year 9 Highlight
In this edition of The Nest I would like to recognise the vast majority of our Year 9 cohort who are embracing the theme for this term’s Learning Advisor sessions – Being an Upstander – Protecting What Is Important. In their Week 3 LEA sessions, students were challenged to record their own personal commitment to being an upstander, and through my engagement with Year 9 this fortnight it is clear that the vast majority of students are heeding their own promise and commitment.
Year 10 Highlight
Recently, our Year 10 cohort participated in the Hunter Valley Careers Expo. It was a proud moment from my perspective as Head of House, as the entire cohort engaged in this opportunity with maturity, interest and the appropriate level of enthusiasm. This excursion kickstarts our Year 11 2026 course preference process and I have no doubt that our Year 10s will choose wisely, and choose well.
United in Mercy,
Watha Endeavour House Leaders
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Year 12
As our Year 12 students prepare for their Trial HSC Examinations next term, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the purpose and significance of this key milestone in their HSC journey.
The Trial Examinations are designed to replicate the structure and expectations of the final HSC exams set by NESA (the New South Wales Education Standards Authority). These assessments are more than just a practice run—they provide a valuable opportunity for students to experience formal exam conditions, develop effective time management strategies, and identify areas for further focus in the lead-up to the external HSC exams.
The results from these trials also contribute to each student’s school-based assessment mark, which is submitted to NESA and forms part of their final HSC result. This makes the trials an important step, not only in preparation but also in shaping overall outcomes.
The Trial HSC Examination Timetable has now been released, and all Year 12 students have received a copy. Additional copies are available in the Senior Study space and have also been emailed to students and families. It is important that students take the time to review the schedule carefully, plan their study accordingly, and ensure they are aware of their exam times and locations.
I encourage all students to approach the trial period with a growth mindset and see this as an opportunity to challenge themselves and strengthen their learning. Seek feedback, reflect on your progress, and know that support is always available—whether through your teachers, your Leader of Wellbeing, or myself. We are incredibly proud of the effort, maturity, and focus our senior students have shown, and we have every confidence that you will rise to the occasion.
Year 11
Having a consistent study routine in Year 11 is essential for academic success and managing the increased workload in Year 11. This year marks a significant step toward final school assessments and future career or university pathways, so staying organised and disciplined is key. A routine helps reduce last minute cramming and stress, allowing students to retain information more effectively and perform better in both assignments and exams.
One of the main benefits of a study routine is that it builds good habits. When students dedicate specific times each day to study, it becomes part of their daily rhythm, much like eating or sleeping. This consistency not only improves focus and productivity but also helps balance schoolwork with other responsibilities and activities, such as sport, part-time jobs, or social events. A well-planned routine ensures that students cover all subjects evenly and do not fall behind in any area.
To build an effective study routine, students should start by setting realistic goals and breaking study sessions into manageable chunks, such as 45-minute blocks with short breaks in between. Try and leave your phone in another room to avoid distractions and check your phone during your breaks. Using planners or digital calendars can help track tasks and deadlines. It is also useful to identify the times of day when they're most focused, some may prefer early mornings, while others work better in the evening. Lastly, creating a quiet and tidy study space free from distractions makes it easier to concentrate and stay on track.
Equally important is maintaining a healthy balance between school, study, work, and social life. Overloading your schedule can lead to burnout and affect your mental and physical well-being. Make time to relax, stay active, and connect with friends and family. Prioritizing sleep, eating well, and setting boundaries around study time can help you stay refreshed and motivated. Remember, success in Year 11 is not just about working hard but also about looking after yourself along the way.
As always please contact us at the College if you have any questions via email or phone the College.
United in Mercy,
Bathu Discovery House Leaders
Bronwyn Denham: bronwyn.denham@mn.catholic.edu.au
Summar Harrison (Year 12): summar.harrison@mn.catholic.edu.au
Loretta Browne (Year 11): loretta.browne@mn.catholic.edu.au
Cassie Barnett
Work Experience
Work Experience Week is coming up quickly! Students have until Week 6 to finalise their documentation and hand it in to me. If the documentation is not submitted by this time, students will not be able to complete their work experience (WE).
The form that must be completed by students, parents, and the host company is called the Student Placement Record. I will need this form returned so I can sign off on their placement. This is a crucial document, so please double-check it to ensure all relevant sections are completed and signed.
All instructions are available on the students’ Careers TEAMS channel and on their Careers OneNote. All forms can be downloaded from either of these platforms.
TAFE YES
TAFE YES courses are about to start next week! This is a very exciting opportunity for students to experience a taster of their potential career. Please ensure your child has checked TEAMS to find their TAFE map, course dates, and information about what to wear.
Please note the following changes:
- Real Estate: now running 23–26 June
- Work on Water: cancelled
TEAMS
Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 all have access to a Careers TEAMS page. Through this page, they can book an appointment using the tabs across the top. There are also regular posts about apprenticeships, RIEP opportunities, excursions, and short courses.
Year 10 now has two channels:
- One for important posts to make information about TAFE YES and Work Experience easy to find
- Another titled ‘Career Opportunities’, which will be regularly updated with news and links about new options
UAC & University
Please find key dates for UAC at this link.
Please find University of Newcastle dates at this link
Some students have been asking about the difference between applying through UAC and directly to UON for early entry. Please note that UON does not consider adjustment points through its early entry scheme. Only UAC applies these, so if your child plans to use regional or other adjustment points, UAC will be the better option.
Make sure you apply early to avoid the full fee, early bird pricing is more affordable.
Hunter Trade College Open Day
Hunter Trade College Open Day is coming up. Please book your spot through this link and aim to attend the Thursday 5th June session, 9:00 am – 12:30 pm.
Students will need to make their own way there, as this is not a school-organised event. It is expected that a parent or carer attend with their child.
Walk-ins are welcome, but bookings are appreciated. The booking link is available on the website, or you can assist your child in booking by clicking here.
More information about the program can be found at:https://htc.nsw.edu.au/enrolmentfaqs
First Aid
Well done to all students who completed their First Aid Certificate. Please ensure you complete the online modules to receive your full certificate.
United in Mercy
Changes to Buses
Hunter Valley Buses / CDC Buses, have recommended the use of the “Opal Travel” App to check for any changes or delays to Bus Services.
For changes to bus services for Busways, please check their website -https://www.busways.com.au/nsw/planned-service-changes
Bus Timetable information
Hunter Valley Buses / CDC NSW Buses
Hunter Valley School Timetables (OM Region 2 & OM Region 4) | CDC NSW
Busways
School timetables | Busways
Port Stephens Coaches
School Timetables | Port Stephens Coaches
Bus Routes
You may find the following link helpful in planning how your child will catch the Bus to school, but make sure you add the "School Bus" option under the "Refine" filter.
Plan your trip to school | transportnsw.info
Tickets are now on sale for Catherine McAuley Catholic College’s production of High School Musical.
Join Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, and the entire East High crew as they navigate friendship, dreams, and the spotlight in this upbeat, feel-good musical packed with iconic songs like We’re All in This Together and Breaking Free.
Whether you're a Wildcat at heart or just love a good musical, this is a night you don’t want to miss!
Tickets are on sale via Try Booking: https://www.trybooking.com/DAVOC
DIOSOUNDS
Diosounds is back for 2025 with the theme, One Call, One Mission.
Tickets are on sale via the Civic Theatre website. Come along and see our McAuley Eagles take to the stage. https://civictheatrenewcastle.com.au/what-s-on/all-shows/one-call-one-mission
Rainier Schoolwear - Closure
Rainier Schoolwear will be conducting their annual stocktake from Wednesday 16 July -Saturday 19 July.
Orders will be able to placed, but will not be actioned until Monday 21 July.
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| Monday 26 May |
Year 12 Student Parent Teacher interviews |
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Monday 2 June |
Examination Week commences |
| Wednesday 4 June |
Year 10 2025 / Year 11 2026 |
| Monday 9 June |
Kings Birthday Public Holiday |
| Wednesday 11 June |
Parent Engagement Group (PEG) 6.00pm |
| Monday 16 June |
Year 8 Reflection Day |
| Thursday 19th & Friday 20th June |
High School Musical performances |
| 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 / Staff Development Day |
| Term 3 |
Monday 21 July - Friday 26 Septmeber |
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Monday 28 July |
Year 7 - 10 Student Parent Teacher Interviews |
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Monday 4 August - Monday 18 August |
Year 12 Trial HSC Exams |
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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 |
| 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