From the Principal

Our MSCW community came together on Wednesday evening for a special Mother/Daughter Mass, celebrating the love, strength, and unwavering support of all mothers and mother figures. It was a beautiful opportunity to reflect, give thanks, and share in the spirit of gratitude.

Last week, members of Chanel House gathered for our first House Mass of the year. Chanel House is named after the Marist Missionary, St Peter Chanel and this was another lovely occasion where we honoured the legacy and values that guide us. These opportunities for worship and reflection remind us of the importance of unity, shared faith, and a collective commitment to fostering a faith filled environment. 

Looking ahead, we are excited for the Jaricot Mass next week. Jaricot House is named after Pauline Jaricot who established the Propagation of the Faith and whose work was of tremendous support to the Marists doing work on the missions. This will be another chance for students, teachers, and families to connect, reflect, and strengthen the bonds within our MSCW community.

I thank the staff and the Year 12 parent community for their genuine engagement in Tuesday’s Parent-Teacher Conference Zoom Meetings. These opportunities allow for meaningful dialogue where teachers and parents can share valuable insights. Whether it’s refining study techniques, encouraging participation in extracurricular activities, or managing workload effectively, collaboration ensures that students feel supported, motivated and empowered to achieve their personal best.

A strong school parent partnership is essential to students’ success. I acknowledge the busyness of people’s schedules and that it can be challenging to balance the various responsibilities that come from work and family life but being actively involved in your daughter’s learning, her school life and College events makes a significant difference to her academic commitment and wellbeing. We know that a holistic education is not confined to the classroom; it thrives with collaboration, involvement with co-curricular activities and faith formation opportunities where parents, teachers, and support staff work together to provide the best possible opportunities and learning environment for our students. With a strong partnership, students are empowered to strive for their best and feel secure knowing they have strong support from both school and home.

I look forward to meeting many more parents at our upcoming House Masses, information evenings and other events.

Executive Director’s Visit

We were delighted to host Danielle Cronin, the Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools last Monday. This  provided a valuable opportunity for her to meet with staff and students and experience first hand the learning environment and opportunities available at MSCW.

Her visit allowed for engaging discussions, insightful observations, and a shared enthusiasm for future initiatives to create even more opportunities that will benefit our students and enhance their educational journey.

God Bless,

From the Assistant Principal

Giving Back to the Community: The Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn on 25 May

At Marist Sisters’ College, we are once again invited to support the Humpty Dumpty Foundation by participating in the Balmoral Burn on 25 May. The Humpty Dumpty Foundation is a children’s charity that has been purchasing essential and often life-saving medical equipment for over 30 years. This equipment benefits sick and injured children in Pediatric Wards, Neonatal Units, Maternity, and Emergency Departments across Australia, with donations now reaching over 500 metropolitan and rural hospitals. This event is a fantastic opportunity for our students and staff to engage with the broader community.

In 2023 and 2024, our school community was the highest fundraiser. This year, we have already raised over $5700 and have over 50 students who have registered to participate in the event.

Sponsorship for the event can be found here.

COMPASS Student Card

It is a College expectation that all students have their COMPASS student ID card with them everyday. The card is used in particular for students to tap in and out of the College for late arrival or early departure and the canteen. I ask for the support of parents in ensuring that your daughter/s have this with them everyday.  If students have misplaced or lost their student ID card it is a requirement that the card is replaced. Please see below for how to order a new card online.

As we continue to focus on school effectiveness, we are excited to announce that our school will be participating in the Tell Them From Me® (TTFM®) online survey. This survey aims to gather valuable feedback from parents, staff, and students about school life, engagement levels, and staff interactions.

The survey has been used by schools in Australia and around the world to improve their practices. We encourage all staff, parents, and students to take the time to participate in this survey, which will be available over the next few weeks.

Students from years 7-12 will complete the survey during regular school hours. All participants will be provided with a random username and password to ensure complete anonymity. The survey takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete.

While participation in the survey is voluntary, we believe that it will provide us with important data to improve our practices and ensure that we work together as a thriving Catholic community. 

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in our school community.

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8

From the Religious Education Coordinator

In our Church ……

HABEMUS PAPAM! (We have a Pope!)

From our Executive Director, Danielle Cronin

Up until his election, Pope Leo XIV was Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. This was a great responsibility as he oversaw the appointment of Bishops all around the world. He is the first American-born Pope, and the first from the Order of St Augustine. Our new Pope’s background is fascinating and inspiring. 

While born and educated in the United States, Pope Leo has lived and worked in different parts of the world. Unsurprisingly, he is multilingual. Pope Leo spent much of his life in Peru, where he was a missionary, teacher, Parish Priest and Bishop. He was greatly admired for his selflessness, his genuine love of others, and his outreach to the poor. This respect led to his promotion within the Order of St Augustine Order, where he served two terms as the Prior General in Rome. 

Pope Leo’s work in Rome and Latin America was known and admired by Pope Francis and the two shared a very close, trusting relationship. 

Pope Leo is also no stranger to Australia, having been here a number of times. Those who have met him, and who have worked with him, speak of his prayerfulness and humility, and his desire ‘not to be in the limelight’. In a very real way, Pope Leo’s life has reflected the Augustinian charism, for we know that this great saint of the early Church reminded us that, “you have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.”

Pope Leo XIV is the sixth Pope of my lifetime. When I think back, I recognise that each of his predecessors was different and each did great things for our Church. They also had many things in common, especially their desire to make the person of Jesus Christ known and loved. And they did this with a missionary zeal. I know that Pope Leo will do great things also. This morning I was inspired by his greeting which wished us peace and spoke of justice, dialogue and unity.  

As we share in the joy of this new day, with our new Pope, we pray that his pontificate will heal the wounds of the world, strengthen us in faith, and deepen our love of God and neighbour.

May – The Month of Mary

As we begin May we are reminded that this is the month the Church especially remembers Mary, the Mother of God.  The following is taken from a resource Mr Anthony Cleary, Director of Mission and Identity for Sydney Catholic Schools, published for schools to use to honour Mary throughout this month. 

In what ways can Mary be honoured in May?

In what ways can Mary be honoured in May? The ways of honouring Mary are as varied as the people who honour her. The most common way is through praying the Rosary, either at home or in parishes. It is common for parishes to have a daily recitation of the Rosary during May, and many parishes erect a special ‘May altar’ with a statue or picture of Mary as a reminder of Mary’s month. It’s also traditional to crown a statue of Mary during May – a custom known as ‘May Crowning.’ Usually, the crown is made of flowers representing Mary’s beauty and virtue, a reminder how we should strive to imitate Mary’s virtue in our own lives.

In addition to the Rosary, there are litanies and specific prayers such as the Angelus, the Regina Coeli, the Memorare, the Hail Holy Queen. Readings from Scripture can accompany these prayers, especially from the Gospels and Matthew and Luke relating to Mary’s role in salvation history. Mary’s great prayer of praise and thanksgiving – the Magnificat – can also be recited and/or reflected upon. 

Why have devotion to Mary? Because she is Jesus’ mother and hence Mother of God. At the foot of the Cross, Jesus gave Mary to St John to be our spiritual mother, to care for all the followers of Jesus day-in-and-day-out without fail, interceding before the throne of God on our behalf for all our needs. For that, Mary deserves an entire month in her honour.

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #1, #2

In Our Community…

In our Community ……

MOTHER DAUGHTER MASS

It was lovely to see so many mothers, grandmothers and daughters at the College to celebrate our beautiful Mother Daughter Day Mass and Supper. We were very fortunate to have Father Aliki Langi from Holy Name of Mary Parish Hunters Hill who celebrated the Eucharist with our many mums and daughters. The Mass highlighted the love and nurture the mothers and mother figures provide. A huge thank you to all who participated in the mass;.

Thanks to the following students and parents who assisted throughout the mass; Elka Byczkov, Isabella Elkorr, Olivia Testa, Mrs Testa, Rosa Marino, Analise Vaccaro, Sophia Saoud, Stella Turnbull, Mrs Turnbull, Charlotte Brailey, Ms Schultz, Sara Alessi, Mrs Alessi, Angelina Severino, Mrs Severino, Charlize Petracca, Caterina Petracca, Mrs Petracca, Mrs Mourani, Hannah Khoury, Emily Ibrahim and Cate Davis. A special thank you to Mrs Pratelli for presenting and beautiful speech on motherhood. Thanks to the following staff who supported the event: Mrs Veronica Del Buono, Mrs Melinda Alvarez, Mrs Antonina Arcidiacono, Ms Emma Pracey, Ms Jennifer Dove, Ms Melissa Carson, Ms Emma Hughes, Mrs Caroline Marsh, Ms Christina O’Neill, Mrs Marissa Martin, Ms Claire Scott, Ms Virginia El-Koura and Mrs Erin Healey. A huge thank you to our College Principal, Ms Rachel Sampson for her inspirational speech.

A special thanks to Mrs Erin Healey and her Year 12 Hospitality students who prepared the supper and our fabulous Marist Sisters’ College Fathers; Mr Andrew Purkiss and Mr Chris Finch for their wonderful help at the supper. 

YEAR 11 REFLECTION DAY

The Year 11 students had a wonderful day at their Year 11 Reflection Day on Friday. A Reflection Day is significantly different from an incursion or excursion. At Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich, Reflection Days are an integral part of our communities focus on faith formation. They are an integral part of the Religious Education program and allow students throughout their time at Marist Sisters’ to build on, extend and deepen the reflection on their emerging self in relationship to their family, their peers and God.

The purpose of the Reflection Day program is to assist students to recognise the importance of their holistic development, to give them further understanding of “fullness of life”.  Activities are designed to open students to their spirit dimension as well as fostering a sense of community and a heightened awareness of their own faith and that of others. 

The Year 11 students participated in a range of activities that focused on the theme: Lead with a Heart of Service, with a focus on Servant Leadership and the qualities of what makes a good leader. The students were asked the question: what does leadership look like for you? What courage do you need to be a leader? This reflection day is the first step in the process of Senior Leadership for our Year 11 students.

Thank you to the following teachers for being a wonderful support on the day and for leading their small groups: Mrs Rachel Sampson, Ms Angela Bowland, Ms Leoni Hopkins, Mrs Michelle Johns, Ms Chanel Basha, Ms Grace Spurr and Ms Te’Annie Makdessi. A special thanks to Ms Veronica Del Buono for all her support throughout the day.

Project Compassion – Thank You!

Last term, our college came together to raise funds for Project Compassion. Project Compassion’s 2025 theme called on communities to Unite Against Poverty. MSCW united with a shared purpose, working to amplify the voices of vulnerable communities and advocate for meaningful change.

Through students’ individual generosity and a range of fun house initiatives, MSCW raised an incredible $7,271.74! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the money raised will directly enhance the lives of people living in poverty in multiple ways. In Samoa, it will enable the installation of a toilet block at a local school, ensuring students have access to safe and sanitary bathrooms. Meanwhile, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it will empower 10 individuals to kickstart their own income-generating activities, allowing young entrepreneurs to focus on growing their businesses and securing their futures. 

A huge congratulations to Jaricot House for raising the most funds, with Chavoin House close behind.

Your generosity and enthusiasm have made a real difference, and it was truly wonderful to see students working together for a common cause. This effort reflects our commitment to social justice, and we are so proud of what we have achieved as a community.

Marists In Action

This term, the Marists in Action (MIA) group has been hard at work brainstorming ways to make a meaningful impact for World Environment Day on the 5th of June. From discussing waste reduction strategies to exploring creative ways to promote sustainability on campus, we’re committed to turning ideas into action. Our group has been collaborating to develop initiatives that inspire real change, and we’re excited to bring these plans to life. We are looking for more students who are eager to join us in creating and promoting these initiatives over the coming weeks. All students are welcome!

The MIA group meets every Day 6, Monday at lunch in Room 131. Let’s make a difference together!

Ms Laura Marshall

Youth Ministry Coordinator

COMMUNITY NEWS

The City of Ryde Prayer Breakfast has been held since 1992 and is a time to come together as one to promote goodwill throughout the community through prayer.

The 2025 City of Ryde Prayer Breakfast will be held on Friday 30 May 2025 at North Ryde School of Arts Community Centre, 201 Coxs Road, North Ryde from 7am – 8.30am.  

This year our guest speaker will be International Justice Mission (IJM) Australia CEO David Braga speaking on ‘Answering the call for Justice’. There are many ways to look at how to address injustice – around the world and locally. The event will provide us as Christian leaders the opportunity to consider how we best respond to these issues to support our communities. 

Ticket Details:

$36 per person (plus booking fee).

$288 for a table of 8 (plus booking fee).

Ticket price includes a hot plated breakfast, tea and coffee.

Ticket sales close Friday 23rd May. 

*Please note the event is a free seating event, and seats will not be allocated unless a table of 8 has been purchased. Group tables will be reserved under the ticket purchaser name.

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #1, #2

Get ready for the Arithmetic Olympics!

This engaging program will see students in Years 7, 8, and 9 Standard classes participate in a series of quick arithmetic challenges designed to supercharge your mental computation skills. Imagine a mental workout that helps you become faster and more accurate with numbers!

Over the next 4-6 weeks (starting in Week 3 and running until Week 7), maths teachers will lead a different arithmetic activity in the first 5-10 minutes of selected lessons. These challenges are designed to be quick, engaging, and to help students develop those crucial mental maths muscles.

As students participate in the challenges, their teachers will be keeping an eye out for students who demonstrate strong mental arithmetic skills and a great attitude. By the end of Week 7, each participating class will nominate one student to be their Arithmetic Olympics Class Champion!

The excitement culminates in Week 8, where all the nominated Class Champions will come together in Maths Club for the ultimate Arithmetic Olympics Final Challenge! This will be a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their mental maths prowess and compete against the best in their year groups.

We encourage all students in Years 7, 8, and 9 Standard to fully participate in the Arithmetic Olympics and see how much you can achieve! Good luck to everyone, and may the best mental calculators win!

SCS Portrait Prize

SCS Stage 6 Portraiture Workshop with Joshua McPherson and Michael Simms—both Archibald Finalists. 

Miss Lili Negrine, Visual Arts Coordinator

 

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #1, #2, #8 

 

Gifted and Talented Report

Welcome to Week 3!

Mrs Colreavy’s Conundrum

Email: rachael.colreavy@syd.catholic.edu.au with your answer. Correct answers will win a prize.

Taken from: https://www.educationquizzes.com/us/middle-school-6th-7th-and-8th-grade/english-language-arts/analogies-7/

POST SCHOOL PATHWAYS

A guide for Year 10 parents in how to support your child through the Subject Selection Process from Study Work Grow

 Why Subject Selection matters

Throughout most of middle and high school, your daughter has been building learning foundations across diverse learning areas. Now, they’re approaching an important transition and the opportunity to specialise in and explore subjects they’re interested in on a deeper level.

This shift from broad education to focused study helps prepare them for future pathways while giving them agency in their learning journey.

7 ways parents can support their child’s Subject Selection

Study Work Grow have put together their top tips for supporting your daughter through the Subject Selection process so they can make the best possible choices. To view the guide please visit High school subject selection – A guide for parents. 

This Week’s Events

Career Discovery Series

Charles Sturt University Online: 13 to 22 May

Get a behind-the-scenes look at different industries. What to expect:

• Hear from industry experts, academics, current students and graduates.
• Discover everything about the right course for you – including how to apply to Charles Sturt

Find out more and register

Tourism Insights Sydney 2025

The Hotel School Australia, Sydney Opera House: May 17, 2025

An exclusive event for Year 12 students to explore Sydney Opera House and discover exciting career opportunities in the tourism industry.

This immersive experience includes a behind-the-scenes tour of Sydney Opera House, an interactive tourism workshop with a completion certificate, and insights from industry experts..

Find out more and register

Discover Western Webinar – For Parents: Your Role and How You Can Help Guide Them to University

Western Sydney University, Online event: May 19

This webinar is for Parents and Supporters to learn how they can support their child through their HSC and while they make those big decisions about their future. Discover university entry options, careers and courses, and pathways they can explore should they not achieve their desired ATAR. Find out more and register

Upcoming Events

Talk with Lawyers and Human Rights Advocates

Australian Catholic University, Online: May 20

Now, more than ever, the world needs human rights advocates. ACU’s student and alumni panel discussion will allow you to hear from a range of experts, including a lawyer working in the human rights field as well as current human rights students.  Find out more and register

NSW Mining Wollongong Careers Dinner

NSW Mining Careers, Novotel Wollongong Northbeach: May 20, 2025

NSW mining offers rewarding careers for a whole range of people in high-skilled jobs in mining regions, rural locations and metropolitan areas.  This event is free, including a meal, and an expansive industry showcase with displays and guest speakers from local mining employers, universities, and training providers. Find out more and register

Nursing and Paramedicine Guided Visit at ACU Blacktown

Australian Catholic University, Blacktown campus: May 20

Did you want to take a deeper dive into Nursing or Midwifery at ACU? 

Join ACU staff for a deeper dive into Nursing and Midwifery at ACU.   You’ll be shown around campus by a current health sciences student, meet academic staff, and get hands-on experience in our nursing and midwifery labs.  Find out more and register

Talk with Teachers and Educators

Australian Catholic University, Online event: May 21

Working in education gives you the opportunity to shape minds, inspire ambition and impact the future. Take part in a Q&A session to learn about their experiences going from the lecture halls to the workforce, and how they make a difference to young people’s lives.

Find out more and register

Year 12 & Beyond – With ADHD

Claire Pech Careers, Online event: May 21 and 29, 7.00 – 8.30pm

Hosted by Claire Pech, CICA-Accredited Careers Practitioner, and Amanda Krulis, endorsed Organisational Psychologist.  Targeted to students with ADHD in Year 12, this webinar will share insights and practical solutions for managing this critical year and beyond and making meaningful career decisions. If students cannot make it a recording will be sent to all ticket holders.

Find out more and register

Science Information Evening

University of New South Wales, Online event: May 21

From Aviation to Psychology, Mathematics to Environmental Sciences, we’re creating the Science Leaders of tomorrow. UNSW’s Science Information Evening is for domestic high school students who are interested in pursuing an undergraduate degree in Science.

Find out more and register

Life of an agricultural scientist

University of Sydney, Online event: May 21

Join this session with one of our very own agricultural scientists to learn about their career and what they get up to in a day. From agribusiness to influencing policy, sustainable practices, and improving the food crops that feed the world, you will discover what our newly launched 3-year Bachelor of Agricultural Science, and 4-year Bachelor of Agricultural Science Honours have to offer you and the diverse and rewarding career that lies ahead.

Find out more and register

University of Sydney Year 12 Information Evening

Sydney Camperdown Campus: May 21, 2025

Join staff for an exclusive information evening, for Year 12 students and their caregivers, to answer all your questions about joining the vibrant Sydney University community next year. This evening provides you with an opportunity to explore the campus, see the range of degrees on offer and seek advice from both USYD and UAC staff.

Find out more and register

NSW Police Force Information

NSW Police Force Information Session:  Tips & Tricks for a Successful Application:  2 Dawn Fraser Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park on May 24, 2025

This is an event for those thinking about joining the NSW Police Force. We will provide tips and tricks for you to ensure you lodge your application properly.

This is also an opportunity to ask any questions about joining the NSW Police Force.

Find out more and register

Academy of Interactive Entertainment Open Day, Sydney: May 24

Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, 3D animation, film and visual effects at the AIE Open Day. It’s is a great opportunity to meet our teachers, staff and students. Find out more and register

HSC and Careers Expo 2025, Royal Randwick Racecourse: May 29 to May 31

The HSC and Careers Expo 2025 will be held on Thursday 29 May, Friday 30 May and Saturday 31 May, 9am-3pm at the Royal Randwick Racecourse. Find out more and register

Endeavour College of Natural Health Open Day 2025 Sydney: May 31

A unique opportunity to see the campus first-hand and chat one-on-one with experts before you take the plunge and enrol. Find out more and register

Academy of Interactive Entertainment Online Campus Day: June 7

Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, 3D animation, film and visual effects at the AIE Online Campus Day. AIE will be running this event for students interested in studying online. Find out more and register

Year 12 Information Evening Online: June 11

An exclusive information evening for Year 12 students and their caregivers to answer all your questions about joining the vibrant Sydney University community next year.

Find out more and register

EngFest (Engineering) Charles Sturt University, Bathurst Campus: June 16

EngFest is Charles Sturt’s annual celebration of civil engineering, with exhibitions and presentations of student works and research, school visits and information sessions, a careers expo, industry networking, professional development events and more. Find out more and register

The Hotel School Sydney Open Campus: June 21

Join us for an inspiring day at The Hotel School Australia’s Open Campus, where you’ll experience student life first hand through an exclusive Masterclass, hear from a special industry guest speaker, meet our academic and support teams, explore course options, and discover career pathways with our Professional Learning team.

Find out more and register

AIM (Australian Institute of Music) Open Day June 21

Opportunity to see thecampus, get course advice, experience live performances, meet AIM academics and students, and get involved in activities that will give you a taste of student life here at AIM. Find out more and register 

UTS Tech Fest, City Campus:  June 23 to July 4

An opportunity to explore the study and career possibilities in Engineering and IT. Whether it’s cybersecurity, civil engineering, robotics, or artificial intelligence, see the exciting opportunities in these areas and how you can be part of the next big thing. Find out more and register

Western Sydney Careers Expo Sydney Olympic Park: June 26 to June 28

The Western Sydney Careers Expo 2025 will be held on Thursday 26 June, Friday 27 June and Saturday 28 June, 9am-3pm at Sydney Olympic Park. Find out more and register

University of Wollongong Open Day, UOW Wollongong Campus: June 28

Open Day is the perfect opportunity to visit our amazing Wollongong campus, speak with our staff and students, and see why UOW is ranked as one of the best universities for student experience.  Find out more and register

Western Sydney University Open Day 2025, Parramatta South Campus: July 6

Find out more and register

Holiday workshops

AMPA Dance Experience Day, Alexandria: July 7

Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) invites dancers to join us on campus for a day of dance. Register and bring your friends along and get ready to move. Find out more and register

National Art School Winter School: July 7 to July 11

NAS’ short courses are for students of all levels of experience, from beginners to intermediate and advanced. Find out more and register

Outward Bound Leadership Program, Tharwa, ACT: July 7 to July 11, 2025

A chance for young adults ages 16 to 24 years to discover their leadership skills and strengths. Meet like-minded connections and add a highlight experience to your resume. Your group will need to work together while organising camp, cooking on fires, navigating through the wilderness, and summiting peaks. The individual challenges such as high ropes and abseil are supported by your two Outward Bound facilitators, who will expertly explore and discuss how to apply these experiences to your life back home. Find out more and register

Australian Institute of Music (AIM) Holiday Workshops, Sydney

The Art of Lyrics Songwriting: July 7 to July 8

Created for students in Years 9-12, AIM’s new high school music workshops provide incredible opportunities to explore songwriting, mentored by AIM’s own accomplished musicians and educators. Find out more and register

Mastering Performance: July 7 to July 8

Created for students in Years 9-12, the workshops provide incredible opportunities to experience playing and performing music, mentored by AIM’s own accomplished musicians and educators. Learn, practice and perform contemporary and classic pop, rock and soul tunes, under the expertise of Australia’s leading music mentors. Find out more and register

Campion College Winter Program, Toongabbie: July 8 – July 11

A unique opportunity designed for Year 11 and 12 students who are earnestly contemplating enrolment at Campion College in 2026 or 2027. Four-day immersive program provide an opportunity for students to sample lectures from our history, literature, philosophy, theology and classics professors. Find out more and register

Designer for a Day Workshop, Sydney Design School, North Sydney: July 8

A one day workshop for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to find out more about interior design.  You’ll get hands on in our studios experimenting with colour and materials. Find out more and register

AMPA Music Theatre Experience Day, Surry Hills: July 9

Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) invites aspiring Music Theatre majors aged 16 and over to join us on campus for a day of music. Attendees will have the chance to sit in on a performance class and participate in workshops/Q&As. Find out more and register

ICMS Event Creation, Sydney: July 10

Join ICMS for an exciting hands-on workshop where you’ll dive into the world of event planning. Whether you dream of organising epic school formals, unforgettable parties, or community events, this workshop is your chance to learn the ins and outs of creating experiences that leave a lasting impression. Find out more and register

National Youth Science Forum, YSF STEM Hub, Sydney: July 14 to July 18

A STEM Hub is a non-residential STEM experience where you can connect with STEM pathways and careers around Australia (e.g. robotics, biomedicine, astronomy and biology). Join exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences typically inaccessible to the public and connect with STEM professionals.  Find out more and register

 Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA), Surry Hills

Classical Performance & Composition Experience Day: July 14

Date: July 14, 2025

Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) invites aspiring Classical musicians and Composers aged 16 and over to join us on campus for a day of music!

Find out more and register

Contemporary Music Performance & Music Production Experience Day: July 17

Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) invites aspiring contemporary musicians and music creators aged 16 and over to join us on campus for a day of music!

Find out more and register

ICMS Building Your Fashion Empire: From Vision to Vogue: July 17

Designed for high school students, this hands-on workshop is your chance to dive into the exciting world of fashion and global brand management. Through expert insights and practical exercises, you’ll learn how to craft a unique brand identity, understand your target audience, and master key marketing strategies. Find out more and register

University of Wollongong Open Day, Liverpool Campus:  July 26

Find out more and register

ACU Blacktown Campus Open Day, Blacktown Campus:  July 26

Find out more and register

Scholarships

Macquarie University Leaders and Achievers Scholarship

Scholarship value:  $10,000 AUD per year

Open Date: June 16, 2025 Close Date: September 2, 2025

Find out more

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8

From the College Counsellors

The School Counselling program is a free, short-term service offered to MSCW students needing access to 1:1 counselling. Qualified and experienced Counsellors provide a safe and private space for students to discuss their concerns and receive support. Eligibility requirements ensure resources are available to those who need them most.

Counsellors may advocate for the wellbeing needs of students within the school and can work with students and their families to explore further specialised support and connect them with external services as needed.

Additionally, Counsellors can work with external mental health professionals to ensure cohesive support and relevant support plans are appropriately informed.

Referrals can be made through the student’s House Coordinator or students can self-refer. 

Other information and resources for parents

CatholicCare provides online parenting and child development courses – see the brochure for details of this term’s courses on offer.  

The CatholicCare Parenting Hub provides tips and practical advice on building positive relationships with your child.

PARENT LINE is a free telephone counselling support service for any parents and carers with children 0–18 years old who live in NSW. Tel: 1300 1300 52 (9am to 9pm Monday – Friday, 4-9pm on weekends).

ASK IZZY is an online service directory that allows you to search by suburb for practical community services such as housing, legal advice, health and wellbeing.

The Australian Psychology Society’s (APS) Find a Psychologist directory gives you access to thousands of psychologists across Australia. You can search by location or area of practice. 

The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia’s (PACFA) Find a Therapist directory will assist you to find a therapist by proximity to you, languages spoken, whether they offer telehealth, private health rebates etc. 

For assistance or further information about school counselling, please contact the College on 02 9816 2041. 

FREE Youth Mental Health First Aid training for parents of young people and EPIC Volunteers 

EPIC is a peer parent support organisation for parents caring for young people who are experiencing mental health challenges, and/or choosing risky/life threatening behaviour. EPIC recognises parents as first responders for their children and is working to support parents with knowledge and support so they can be confident in supporting their young people.  

EPIC has received funding from the Bupa Foundation and is supported by the City of Ryde to provide this training to parents of young people and EPIC volunteers.

FREE Youth Mental Health First Aid training for parents of young people and EPIC Volunteers 

When: Sunday 29 June, 8.45am – 4.45pm, 

Where: Marsfield Community Centre, 1A Trafalgar Place, Marsfield

The Youth Mental Health First Aid training will be blended Face-to-Face format:  

• Self-paced eLearning (5-7 hours) 
• One day (7 hours) face-to-face session, Marsfield

Places are limited, more information and registration is here – https://www.empoweringparentsincrisis.com/youth-mental-health-first-aid-1

The Youth Mental Health First Aid course teaches participants how to provide initial support to a young person (aged 12–18) who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis, until professional help is received, or the crisis resolves.  

Course participants learn about the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in adolescents, how to recognise and respond to an emerging or worsening mental health problem, and the treatments and supports available.

Using a practical, evidence-based action plan, course participants learn how to approach a young person they are concerned about and initiate a conversation about those concerns. Participants also learn how to offer initial support and information and how to help a young person to seek professional help or other support. 

Adults who complete the course become Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAiders), equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to provide someone with mental health information and support when it matters most. 

This course is recognised by Suicide Prevention Australia as a safe, high-quality, and effective suicide prevention program. 

If you have any questions, please call 02 8428 0913 or email EPIC on contact

Foundress Day (July 2) Mini Fete

Dear MSCW Community,

This year on Foundress Day (July 2) the College is hosting a mini Fete, with food trucks, carnival games and of course a Chocolate Wheel. 

The Colin and Perroton House Captains are organising the chocolate wheel and need your help! We are asking MSCW Families to help support the Fete by donating the following items:

• Prize donations including Products and Services
• Cash donations
• Vouchers

Please contact Ms Jennifer Dove at the College (jennifer.dove@syd.catholic.edu.au) if you are able to support us.

Thank you so much for your continued generosity and support.

Kind regards,

Your, Colin Captains: Gabrielle Kuk and Sophie Scoullar and 
Perroton Captains: Sophie Haddad and Maddison Tannous 

Sports News

Under 17’s Australia Football

National U18 Volleyball

2025 MSCW Cross Country Carnival

The MSCW Cross Country Carnival took place on Tuesday 6 May, marking one of the most anticipated sporting events of the College year.

A massive shoutout to the 163 students who competed with enthusiasm and showcased incredible Marist spirit in every race!

Heartfelt appreciation goes to our committed Sport/ PDHPE staff, whose dedication and support were instrumental in making the event a success.

Be sure to tune in for the official results, which will be unveiled at the Principal’s Assembly on Wednesday 11 June.

Table Tennis

Congratulations to the Marist Sisters’ College Table Tennis team for their outstanding participation in the SCS Conference 2 Table Tennis Championships at Sydney Olympic Park Sports Halls 

Competing in pairs, they faced off against other Sydney Catholic Schools in a thrilling tournament, showcasing their powerful serves, swift returns, strategic spins and agile footwork. 

Fantastic effort by the team! 

Results:

Junior – 2^nd Place and 3^rd place

Intermediate – 3^rd place

Senior Girls – 3^rd place

A huge congratulations to all the players for their dedication and skill. Their hard work and teamwork truly shone throughout the competition.

 

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8

Sports Results

FOOTBALL – WEEK 1

FOOTBALL – WEEK 2

FOOTBALL – WEEK 3

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8

Sporting Opportunities For Your Family

Please see the attached two sports opportunities for your families, I ask that you share them with your communities.

1.) GWS Giants Free Children’s Tickets.

Join the GIANTS for their Cultural Heritage Series game – a chance to celebrate the rich diversity, culture, and contributions of the people of Western Sydney. 

ENGIE Stadium will be alive with live performances, activations, and various food stalls, take advantage of this GIANT ticket offer and make sure you don’t miss out! 

The attachment below allows the chance to redeem adult tickets for just $10 and kids for free. 

2.) Sydney FC Skills Training Program for Term 2.

The program includes:

• Expert coaching
• 8 weekly sessions
• Sydney FC A-League Player Appearance
• Sydney FC training kit*
• Three-Game Junior Membership for the 2024/25 A-League Season

 LEARN MORE (link to Sydney FC general web page)  Sydney FC STP General Page
 BOOK NOW https://my.sydneyfc.com/skills-training

Thank you for all of your support.

Calling for Volunteers

Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich is looking for members of the Community who may be willing to volunteer a couple of hours per fortnight to assist with facilitating Christian meditation sessions. The current volunteers will happily train and work with new members of the group. If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Narelle Camroux, Executive Assistant to the Principal on 9816 2041.

Canteen News

Change to Flexischools

Due to the increase of online orders, the cut off time will now be 8:00 am!

Please order as soon as you are able to.

Calling on volunteers

Enrolling Now 2026 and 2027