Principal’s Post on Empowering Young Women

Since 1935, Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College has held a legacy of instilling the values of leadership, excellence and service, nurturing confident young women. We empower our girls to make their make on society with confidence and compassion.

Understanding Technology, Learning, and Your Teenager

Based on key ideas from The Digital Delusion by Martin Horváth

Horváth, M. (2025). The digital delusion. [LME Global]

Martin Horváth is an educator, researcher, and writer known for his work on the impact of digital technology on learning, thinking, and society. His background spans teaching, educational leadership, and digital strategy, giving him a unique perspective on how technology shapes the lives of young people both inside and outside the classroom. Horváth’s work focuses on helping schools and families understand the difference between meaningful digital learning and the hype that often surrounds new technologies. He is particularly interested in how digital environments affect attention, wellbeing, and the development of critical thinking skills. His writing encourages parents, teachers, and policymakers to take a balanced, thoughtful approach to technology, one that supports young people rather than overwhelms them.

Why This Matters

Digital technology is part of every teenager’s daily life. While it brings many benefits, it also presents challenges for learning, wellbeing, and family routines. The following summarises key insights to help parents support their daughter’s healthy and effective use of technology.

1. New Technology Doesn’t Always Mean Better Learning

Horváth explains that digital tools often look impressive but don’t automatically improve understanding or academic outcomes. Schools and families are encouraged to focus on what genuinely supports learning, not what simply appears modern.

2. Attention and Concentration Are Under Pressure

Digital environments are designed for speed and constant stimulation. Notifications, multitasking, and fast paced content can make it harder for students to focus deeply on schoolwork. Supporting routines that protect concentration, such as device free homework time can make a significant difference.

3. “Digital Natives” Still Need Guidance

Although teenagers are confident with devices, Horváth notes that this doesn’t mean they have strong digital literacy skills. Students often need help with:

• Evaluating online information – recognising reliable sources, spotting misinformation, and understanding how search engines shape what they see.
• Interpreting AI‑generated content – understanding that AI tools can produce confident‑sounding but incorrect answers, biased information, or fabricated details.
• Identifying digital fakes – recognising deepfakes, altered images, misleading videos, and manipulated content that can circulate widely online.
• Managing distractions – navigating notifications, multitasking pressures, and the constant pull of entertainment platforms.
• Using technology for learning rather than entertainment – developing habits that support focus, organisation, and purposeful study rather than passive scrolling.

Parents play a key role in modelling and reinforcing these skills.

4. Data and Algorithms Are Not Always Neutral

Schools increasingly use digital platforms to track progress. While helpful, these systems can oversimplify learning or create pressure. Horváth encourages families to remember that no dashboard or app can replace the insight of teachers or the support of parents.

5. Human Relationships Matter Most

One of Horváth’s strongest messages is that technology should support, not replace, the human elements of learning. Strong relationships with teachers, parents, and peers remain the most important factors in your daughter’s success.

6. A Balanced Approach Works Best

Healthy digital habits at home can support learning and wellbeing. Consider:

• setting device free times (e.g., during meals or before bed)
• encouraging offline hobbies and physical activity
• talking openly about online experiences
• modelling balanced technology use as adults

Takeaway for Parents

Technology is a powerful tool, but only when used thoughtfully. Parent guidance, boundaries, and conversations with your daughter play a crucial role in helping them navigate the digital world with confidence, balance, and purpose.

Assistant Principal – Karen Shawcross

 

We have officially gone past the midpoint of the term, and it has been an incredibly vibrant few weeks. From the sizzle of Shrove Tuesday pancakes to the solemnity of our Ash Wednesday Mass, our community has been deeply engaged. Our students have jumped into a variety of enriching experiences, including the Swimming Carnival, Reflection Days, and various excursions. These opportunities are designed to enrich the “whole person,” providing lessons in teamwork, faith, and resilience that extend far beyond the classroom walls. A special mention must go to the students who volunteered at our Open Evening this week. They were outstanding ambassadors, embodying the Mercy spirit through their maturity and clear communication with prospective families. It was wonderful to see our girls lead with such confidence.

Maintaining high standards in both attendance and uniform is essential to fostering a focused and respectful learning environment. We ask for your continued support in ensuring that your daughter wears her full school uniform with pride, adhering to all College guidelines regarding jewellery, grooming, and length. This collective commitment to our dress code reflects a respect for ourselves and our community identity.

 

Karen Shawcross, Assistant Principal 

Calendar Update

Term 1 Important Dates

March

Wednesday 11 March – Wednesday 20 March
Years 7 and 9 – NAPLAN, Year 10 Minimum Standards

Friday 13 March
Year 10 Bronze Medallion at Caringbah Pool

Tuesday 17  March
St Patrick’s Day

Tuesday 17 March – Wednesday 18 March
Year 8 Camp @ The Tops

Friday 20 March
Year 7 Bake Sale 

Tuesday 24 March – Thursday 31 March
Year 12 Half Yearly Examinations

Tuesday 31 March – Wednesday 1 April
Year 11 Retreat @ Benedict retreat Centre

April

Thursday 2 April
Holy Thursday – Washing of the feet at St Aloysius Church at 7.00pm

Thursday 2 April
Last Day of Term 1 – School will conclude at 12.30pm

Friday 3 April
Good Friday – Stations of the Cross at St Aloysius Cronulla at 10.00am

Monday 20 April
Staff Professional Learning Day

Tuesday 21 April
Students return to commence Term 2

Monday 27th April
Anzac Day – Public Holiday

Religious Education Coordinator – Ian Anderson

 

As we reach the end of our Second week of Lent, we can pause to reflect on our disciplines. Am I giving up something or taking up something that will be good for my relationship with God? Am I praying more? Have I performed some act of charity? If not, there is an opportunity to do so. As you know, the College supports everyone in their Lenten observance. At the moment Our Project Compassion Campaign has begun and Coolcock has begun leading the College in the collection of Easter eggs and Cards to be sent down to Stella Maris. 

Currently, The College has begun an Easter Raffle where all proceeds go towards Project Compassion.

My Team Shop, a local business, has kindly donated a $500 voucher for sports merchandise from their website. See the flyer for more details.

Year 7 Reflection Day

On Shrove Tuesday, our College Leaders sold pancakes throughout the morning, with all proceeds supporting Project Compassion.

Year 7 students also took part in their Reflection Day on this day, spending time learning about the Mercy legacy they are now part of. They attended a production exploring the history of Mercy in Cronulla and then participated in activities designed to deepen their understanding of what it means to live out this tradition.

 

Ash Wednesday

The College celebrated Mass on Ash Wednesday with Fr James and the community of St Aloysius Primary School. It was wonderful to see so many parents joining us for this important liturgy. As the girls received their ashes, they were reminded to “Repent and be faithful to the Gospel.” This simple yet powerful phrase calls each of us to recognise that we all fall short of the glory of God and are continually invited to turn back to Him in our moments of weakness. God desires our happiness and wants us to flourish, and we cannot do this without His grace and guidance.

Year 8 Reflection Day

On 4 March, Year 8 took part in their Reflection Day. Mr Nolan from the St Vincent de Paul Society joined us to share the organisation’s work in schools, and the students prepared snack packs and cards for people in the local community who need support. In the afternoon, they learned about Caritas and how their contributions help vulnerable communities around the world

Connection to Parish

Many families have contacted me recently regarding the Sacraments. I encourage anyone interested to visit the website of their local parish to connect with and enrol in the Sacramental programs currently being offered. We now have 15 students exploring the possibility of receiving their Sacraments, with some joining parish programs and others taking part in a school‑based pathway.

The term continues to be full of events and opportunities for our students. A reminder that 17 March is St Patrick’s Day. Early Irish settlers looked to St Patrick as a patron saint, and he remains an important cultural and spiritual figure for many Catholics in Australia today.

Year 7 will hold a Bake Sale on 20 March, and Year 11 will attend their Senior Retreat in Week 10. We look forward to these moments of community, service, and reflection.

All families are warmly invited to join us for the Easter liturgies at the end of term. Some of our students have been invited to take part in the Holy Thursday Liturgy through the Washing of the Feet. On Good Friday, students will present the Stations of the Cross at 10am. We are seeking volunteers to read, sing, and act to help the parish community enter more deeply into this important tradition.

 

Ian Anderson, Religious Education Coordinator

Leader of Learning – Integrated Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment – Lisa Romberg

A special welcome to the 2026 academic school year, especially our families that are new to the College. 

We hope that your daughter has enjoyed her first weeks at OLM. 

Preparation courses available for students in Years 10-12

The right preparation can help students feel more confident going into the HSC.

The HSC preparation program at CCE, the University of Sydney offers short courses for students in Years 10 – 12 looking to strengthen subject knowledge and build exam confidence.

Courses are available across key HSC subjects including English, mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, economics, and business studies.

Years 10-12 Course: Essay Writing

Years 10-12 Course: Study MethodsView the April 2026 timetable and enrol today.

NAPLAN testing 2026

A reminder that NAPLAN commences next week for students in Years 7 and 9. Year 9 will complete their tests in the periods indicated. Year 7 students have received an individual timetable on Monday and have the information copied into their diaries.

Year 9 NAPLAN Timetable 2026

Time	Period	NAPLAN Test	Catch Up Exam
Wed A     – 11 March	2	Writing (42min)	Thurs A   – 12 March
Mon B     – 16 March	1	Reading (65 min)	Thurs B   – 19 March
Tues B     – 17 March	1	Language Conventions (45 min)	Thurs B   – 19 March
Wed B     – 18 March	3	Numeracy (65 min)	Thurs B   – 19 March

Year 7 Timetable Example

Date	NAPLAN Test	Period	Room
Wed A     – 11 March	Writing (42min)	Period 3	Mercy Centre
Mon B     – 16 March	Reading (65 min)	Period 3 into 4	Mercy Centre
Tues B     – 17 March	Language Conventions (45 min)	Period 2	Mercy Centre
Wed B     – 18 March	Numeracy (65 min)	Period 1 into 2	Mercy Centre

Test Equipment

Students IN YEAR 9 will be required to bring:

• Fully charged laptop and charger
• Pen or pencil

Year 10 HSC Minimum Standard Tests Timetable 2026

A reminder that HSC Minimum Standards testing is occurring next week. 

Day	Time	Test	Room	Provisions
Tuesday A 10/3/26	Period 3	RE Assessment Task 1	Mercy Centre	M4
	Period 4	Reading (45 min)	Mercy Centre	M4 & 5
Thursday A 12/3/26	Period 2	Numeracy (45 min)	Mercy Centre	M4 & 5
	Period 3	Writing (45 min)	Mercy Centre	M4 & 5

Test Equipment

Students IN YEAR 10 will be required to bring:

• Fully charged laptop and charger
• Pen or pencil

Absent from an Assessment Task

This is a reminder, especially for students in Year 9 and their parents that Medical Certificates are required if students miss an assessment task on the day of the task unless an application for variation from assessment has been submitted prior to the task.

Medical Certificates required for Year 9-12 students

For students in Years 9-12, a medical certificate is required for each assessment task missed. These can be obtained from a doctor or a pharmacist. Students who continue to miss assessment tasks throughout the year will have their names submitted to the academic review panel. 

When a medical certificate is supplied, the school reserves the right to review the result in light of all assessment tasks for that subject. 

The certificate is to provide information on the nature of the diagnosis and how this impacts on student preparation or performance in the assessment.

When is a medical certificate required?

• A Medical Certificate is required if a student is partially absent on the day of a scheduled in class assessment task or if a student is absent the day before an assessment task.
• A Medical Certificate is required if a student is unwell during the Assessment Task as the illness may have impacted on the student performance. The student is to notify the class teacher, Instructional Leader of Curriculum or Leader of Learning of their illness on the day of the in-class task.
• A Medical Certificate is also required for all missed Assessment Tasks as outlined above.

Summary of Missed Assessment Task expectations and Term Schedules

Year Group	Summary: Missed Assessment Task Expectations	Term Schedules
7	Illness/Misadventure: Note from home to class teacher Known Absence:  Due to Leave, Sports representation, Specialist Appointments other…. Application for Leave to the PrincipalVariation of Assessment Form Section VA – Student form	Term 1 linkTerm 2 link	Term 3 link Term 4 link
8		Term 1 link Term 2 link	Term 3 link Term 4 link
9	Unforeseen Absence 9-12 Illness/Misadventure:  College Illness Misadventure Section A – Student form AND Independent supporting evidence such as a Medical Certificate covering complete absence Independent Evidence of Illness or Misadventure Advice Known Absence 9-12  Due to Leave, Sports representation, Specialist Appointments other…. Application for Leave to the PrincipalVariation of Assessment Form Section VA – Student form	Term 1 linkTerm 2 link	Term 3 link Term 4 link
10		Term 1 linkTerm 2 link	Term 3 link Term 4 link
11		Term 1 linkTerm 2 link	Term 3 link
12		Term 1 linkTerm 2 link	Term 3 link

Wednesday Afternoon Open Learning

Our Afternoon Open Learning has moved to Wednesday this year and will start on the 18 February. This will be held in the Library each Wednesday afternoon from 3pm until 4pm. 

This time will provide students with the opportunity to collaborate with fellow students, complete any group tasks or learning experiences or provide a quiet space for study and home learning. In addition teachers will be available to assist students with their learning. This includes:

• subject specialists who can help answer questions – English every week, Maths in week A
• assistance with time management and planning
• tips and tricks to developing study tools such as mind maps, study notes, flash cards

 

Lisa Romberg, Leader of Learning, Integrated Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment

 

Year 7 News – Mr Reece Bailey

The Year 7 girls have continued to embrace their first term at OLM with enthusiasm and the last few weeks have seen them further develop their sense of school spirit. As they settle into high school life, it has been wonderful to see the way they support one another, take on new challenges, and contribute so positively to our community.

One of the early highlights of the term was the College Swimming Carnival, where the girls showed outstanding participation and house pride. Whether they were racing competitively, cheering from the sidelines, or joining novelty events, Year 7 students played a big part in creating an energetic atmosphere. The carnival was a fantastic opportunity for the girls to bond, celebrate their houses, and step outside their comfort zones.

Their willingness to get involved was also evident during the OLM Open Day, where an impressive number of Year 7 students volunteered as tour guides. Their confidence, friendliness, and pride in their new school shone through as they welcomed prospective families and shared their early experiences of high school life. Staff and visitors alike commented on their maturity and the warmth they brought to the evening.

In the classroom, the girls have been working steadily through their first assessment tasks of the year. This week, they completed both Mathematics and English assessments, with additional subject tasks scheduled in the coming weeks. This busy time will challenge the girls’ organisation and growing independence as they learn to manage deadlines and prepare effectively.

A particularly meaningful moment this term was the Year 7 Reflection Day, where students explored the Mercy history of OLM Burraneer. Through storytelling, activities, and guided reflection, the girls learned about the legacy of Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy, whose values continue to shape our school community today. The day encouraged the girls to think deeply about compassion, service, and the importance of contributing positively to the world around them.

As Term 1 continues, the Year 7 girls are already showing they are ready to embrace opportunities and we forward to seeing them continue to grow and shine throughout the year.

 

Reece Bailey, Instructional Leader of Wellbeing Year 7

 

Year 8 News – Mrs Maria Biala

Over the past few weeks, Year 8 have continued to settle positively into their school routines and are preparing well for upcoming assessment tasks. With tasks now coming in thick and fast, it is crucial that the girls remain organised, manage their time effectively and stay on track with their preparation. A reminder that after school study is available every Wednesday for students who would like additional support, a quiet place to work, or assistance from staff. I strongly encourage the girls to take advantage of this opportunity, particularly during busy assessment periods.

We are incredibly proud of the many Year 8 students who have represented the College in recent weeks. Several girls have competed in Debating and the NSW Triathlon, demonstrating commitment and enthusiasm beyond the classroom. It is always wonderful to see our students embracing opportunities and striving for personal excellence.

At our recent Swimming Carnival, Year 8 showed an excellent turnout, especially with many students away representing the College in State Oztag, Nippers and other sports. The spirit, encouragement and house pride on display were outstanding, and it was wonderful to see so many students getting involved.

During our Open Night this week, a large number of Year 8 students confidently stepped into leadership roles as tour guides. They represented the College with pride and spoke openly and enthusiastically about their experiences so far as Mercy girls. Their warmth and authenticity did not go unnoticed and they should be very proud of the way they conducted themselves.

We also recently held our Year 8 Reflection Day, which was a wonderful opportunity for the girls to demonstrate their Mercy Spirit in action. Their Reflection Day was a special time where students stepped away from their usual classes to consider what it truly means to be a Mercy girl, particularly in light of our 2026 theme of Giving Back.

Throughout the day, the girls participated in a range of activities centred on service, compassion and living out the Mercy values in practical ways. A key focus was creating care packages for Vinnies Vans and their Night Appeal, supporting those in need within our wider community. The generosity shown by our Year 8 families was greatly appreciated. Students also created “sock-er balls,” combining creativity with service as another way of giving to those less fortunate. It was a meaningful and purposeful day that highlighted the kindness and empathy within our cohort.

We now look ahead to our upcoming Year 8 Camp. This is always a highlight of the year and a valuable opportunity for the girls to strengthen friendships, challenge themselves and continue building positive connections as a cohort. I am very much looking forward to sharing another memorable camp experience with them.

As always, thank you for your continued support of Year 8.

 

Maria Biala, Instructional Leader of Wellbeing  Year 8

Year 9 News – Mr Christopher Shelston

Swimming Carnival 

Friday 20 March saw the College attend the annual Swimming Carnival. It was great to see so many Year 9 students get involved and represent their house. These days are great days to build community spirit but allow students the opportunity to challenge themselves. 

Guest Speaker – Raquel Bouris 

This week we had the privilege of welcoming Raquel Bouris to speak with our Year 9 and 10 students. Raquel is the founder and creative director of ‘Who Is Elijah’, a globally recognised fragrance brand. She began by sharing when, how, and why she started her company, and spoke about the different jobs she worked in when she was our age. Raquel explained that she didn’t come up with the idea for her brand until 2018. Her inspiration for each perfume begins with the name, she creates the name first, then works to find the perfect scent to match it.

Raquel also spoke about the challenges she faced along the way, reminding us that while setbacks can be difficult, they are part of the journey and make success even more meaningful. Although she finished school in Year 10, she found listening to podcasts and interviews incredibly valuable for her learning. She encouraged us, however, to complete our studies, pursue university pathways, and take in as much knowledge as we can.

Having Raquel speak to our cohort was incredibly beneficial. She shared practical insights into starting a business and left us with powerful life lessons such as “with all bad comes even more good,” “have confidence and belief in yourself because if you don’t, who will?” and her personal motto, “there’s always a way to fix it.”

Written by Ava Allouche and Charlotte Kain-Blatch (Year 9 students)

Attendance

It is wonderful to see that 25% of Year 9 students have maintained a perfect attendance record so far this term. Regular attendance is an important factor in supporting your daughter’s learning, wellbeing and overall success, with each day in the classroom contributing to her progress. Even small amounts of missed learning time can add up over the year, so students are expected to attend school each day and arrive on time.

If you have concerns regarding your daughter’s wellbeing, academic progress, or social dynamics, please do not hesitate to contact me. 

 

Chris Shelston, Instructional Leader of Wellbeing  Year 9

Year 10 News – Ms Courtney Kramer

The term is off to a flying start, and our Year 10 students are keeping up the pace beautifully. It was fantastic to see such high energy and house spirit at the recent Swimming Carnival, a huge well done to everyone who were involved. 

As we look toward the second half of the term, two important academic milestones are approaching: Minimum Standards testing and the main assessment block. The Minimum Standards tests are a key requirement to ensure students are on track with the essential literacy and numeracy skills needed for their final school years.

I encourage students to begin organising their study schedules now to manage these requirements effectively. I am incredibly proud of how the cohort is stepping up to these responsibilities and look forward to a productive few weeks ahead. 

Courtney Kramer, Instructional Leader of Wellbeing Year 10

Years 11 & 12 News – Mrs Ellouise Bernie

Year 11 and 12 are settling in well to the academic year and enjoying the opportunities and events available to them at OLM.

Our Year 11 House Leaders enjoyed the recent opportunity to show their house spirit, preparation and leadership at the OLM Swimming Carnival. Leading chants until their voices cracked and organising the whole house swims with their House Leaders. Year 12 also took full advantage of this day to make memories, dressing up together and participating in a range of events. Special congratulations to Baggot House who were the well deserving winners on the day. 

Year 11 were fortunate to attend an excursion to the State Library, Mitchell Library and Art Gallery of NSW. We were given a tour of the State Library and had the opportunity to explore the HSC resource section. Some of our students were extremely lucky and got to visit the “stacks” underneath the State Library where the extensive collection is stored. They were fascinated to see the old and rare books and artifacts in the collection. Following this they completed a scavenger hunt that took them through key buildings and exhibitions that relate to their preliminary subjects, finishing in the Art Gallery of NSW where they explored the “Leave the Key Under the Mat” art installation. 

Year 12 students seized the opportunity to learn more about university study attending University of Wollongong Discovery Day. They were able to experience a “day in the life” of a university student with hands-on workshops, faculty tours, and interactive lectures that help students explore career paths and campus life.

This week Year 11 had the amazing opportunity to participate in the Tomorrow Woman workshops. The Tomorrow Woman organisation is passionate about helping students navigate the expectations that shape their sense of self. The workshops are an opportunity to pause, reflect, and connect. Students explored how they can challenge their preconceived limitations and explored the dynamics of female peer groups and the powerful role young women play in shaping their community. They reflected on the social hierarchies around them, examined the impact of their words and actions, and learned how to foster a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and respect.

In our recent digital citizenship sessions, students explored the concept of Digital Reputation, using resources from the Australian eSafety Commissioner. We discussed how every action online—including posts, comments, “likes,” and even photos others tag them in—contributes to a permanent digital footprint that shapes how they are perceived by friends, future employers, and universities.

Students were encouraged to “stop and think” before posting, to treat others with the same respect online as they do in person, and to regularly review their privacy settings. We also practiced “Googling” ourselves to see what information is publicly available. We invite you to continue this conversation at home by asking your child what they discovered about their own digital footprint and discussing how they can maintain a positive and safe online presence for the future.

 

Ellouise Bernie, Instructional Leader of Wellbeing Years 11 & 12

From the HSIE Faculty – Mrs Karla Treeves

ANZAC Care Package Project 2026

Preliminary Ancient History

On Thursday 12 February, Year 11 Ancient History students got a real “taste” for archaeology by conducting a cookie dig. Their aim was to carefully excavate the artefacts (choc chips) from the soil (dough) with their specialised archeological equipment (toothpicks – which are actually used by archaeologists in uncovering and cleaning ancient artefacts).

Through this activity students were able to appreciate the care with which archaeologists need to uncover their items, look for clues when an artefact was to be found beneath the surface, complete a site sketch with notes about where each artefact was found and keep track of their artefacts (a challenge given their artefacts were so delicious).

The cookie dig also supported students in their study of our current topic: The Nature of Ancient History – The Investigation of Ancient Sites and Sources. This topic informs students about how an archaeological site is found, methods of excavation, the use of science and technology in understanding artefacts, and how artefacts are used as evidence in our understanding of history. The knowledge and skills taught during this unit are foundational to a deep understanding of Ancient History and encourages our students to be critical thinkers.

 

Rhiannon O’Connor, HSIE Teacher

 

Instructional Leader – Co-Curricular – Danielle Polson

 

The following link has important information from Sydney Catholic Schools regarding sport.

https://sport.syd.catholic.edu.au/

Swimming Carnival Results

Our annual Swimming Carnival made a splash at Caringbah Pool, bringing together students and staff for a fantastic day of competition and community spirit. There was a great feel to the carnival with excellent participation across both championship and non‑championship events. Whether students were racing for points or simply diving in for fun, the enthusiasm was felt from start to finish.

House spirit was on full display, with chants, colours, and encouragement heard throughout the venue. It was wonderful to see everyone supporting one another and contributing to such a positive atmosphere.

Congratulations to the following students who were Age Champions

12-13 Years Champion – Gabriella Welsh 2nd – Annabel Magafa 3rd – Sunday Bloom	14 Years Champion – Josie Davis 2nd – Veronica Rogers 3rd – Alba Hurst

15 Years Champion – Georgia Pyper 2nd – Stella Bloom 3rd – Jayde Hartup	16 Years Champion – Emma Romyn 2nd – Layla White 3rd – Andie Smith
17+ Years Champion – Camilla Alispahic 2nd- Catherine Palamara 3rd- Sahara Hannon	School 50m Champion Georgia Pyper

A huge congratulations to Baggot House, who claimed the title of House Champions this year.

NSW Touch

Congratulations to Victoria Trajcevski and Chloe McIntosh who were 14 years Champions and Charli Moses and Layla White who were 16 years Champions at the NSW Touch Southern Conference. Charli was also named player of the tournament. Congratulations Girls.

 

SCS Touch

Congratulations to Charli Moses, Chloe McIntosh, Victoria Trajcevski and Montana Ayoub who have been selected in the SCS Touch Football 15 years team. The girls will now attend the NSW CCC trials in April.

We wish them well for this event.

Softball

Congratulations to Eva Cameron and Lauren Cuddihy who were selected to trial for the NSW CCC Softball team. 

Oztag

 

NSW Surf Lifesaving State Age and Open Championships

Congratulations to the students from our school who represented their Surf Clubs at the recent NSW Surf Lifesaving State Age and Open Championships. We had some outstanding results from our students:

Layla White- 2nd in the U17 2km beach run, 1st in the U17 2x1km, 1st in the U19 2x1km, 2nd in the U17 2x1km and 2nd in the Open 2x1km.

Emma Romyn- 3rd U17 Taplin, 3rd U17 Sprint Relay

Jayde Hartup- 3rd U17 Sprint Relay

Ella McGuinness- 1st U19 2x1km, 2nd U19 Mixed 2x1km

Kate McGuinness- 3rd U13 Surf Teams

Olivia Wrighter- 3rd U13 Surf Teams

Many of our students made finals and finished in top 6 places earning points for their club. Congratulations to our students who represented Wanda SLSC. Wanda was crowned State Pointscore Champions for both Age and Open Championships.

Cross Country Carnival

The OLM Cross Country Carnival was a great morning at Burraneer Park. Students from Years 7-11 took part with plenty of enthusiasm, and it was wonderful to see so many giving the course their best effort. The atmosphere was full of encouragement, teamwork, and school spirit.

There were some very fast runners on the day, showing impressive speed and determination. At the same time, every student who joined in helped make the carnival a success. Your effort, whether running hard or cheering on your friends, helped earn important points for your house.

Congratulations to the following students who placed in their age groups:

12 Years Champion: Scout Koernig            

2nd: Annabelle Harrison

3rd: Talia Allouche

13 Years Champion: Jenna Haydon

2nd: Montana Ayoub                                                                       

3rd: Freeya Sinclair

14 Years Champion: Veronica Rogers                                                      

2nd: Josie Davis

3rd: Layla Becker

15 Years Champion: Felicity Barnes

2nd: Abby Cowan

3rd: Mileta Richards

16 Years Champion: Layla White

2nd: Liesl Spinner

3rd: Ella McGuinness

Special thank you to the PDHPE staff who helped to run the carnival.

Best of luck to all students who will now progress to the Sydney Catholic Schools Cross Country Carnival at Sydney International Equestrian Centre in June.

 

 

Danielle Polson, Instructional Leader Co-Curricular

 

Swimming Carnival – Gallery

 

English Faculty News – Bernadette Coppock

State Library visit

Year 11’s English excursion into the city became a lively blend of research, discovery, and friendly competition. The day began at the State Library, where students explored the impressive reading rooms and learned essential research skills to support all their Stage 6 subjects. A highlight for one fortunate group was a rare behind‑the‑scenes visit to the Stacks, where they viewed an original 1630 map and manuscripts more than 250 years old; an unforgettable glimpse into history.

The adventure continued with a scavenger hunt that sent teams through the Mitchell Library’s art and photography exhibitions and into the grandeur of the main reading room. From there, the hunt led them along Macquarie Street, past some of Sydney’s most significant government buildings, before arriving at St Mary’s Cathedral.

The final stop was the Key Under the Mat exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Here, students explored an interactive showcase of sustainability, upcycling, and innovative design, engaging with an exploratory artwork that challenged them to think creatively about the world around them.

It was a full and energetic day of learning, exploring, and teamwork, one that brought literature, history, art and the city itself to life for Year 11.

 

Bernadette Coppock, English Coordinator 

Leader of Pathways and Partnerships – Lisa Formica

When students start thinking about their future – what to do after school, where to study, what occupations do they want to have – the first two steps are:

• Know themselves
• Know what is out there

Students develop an understanding of themselves by identifying their strengths, skills, interests and values. Knowing what occupations are out there takes research. This research can start at any age, and can be undertaken on many different platforms.

In this newsletter I have included information from different universities regarding some of the webinars and in person events they hold.

Some great websites for students to use in their research are:

• www.jobjump.com.au (School code olomcb)
• www.beyond.edu.au
• www.myfuture.edu.au 

I am available to meet with students and parents if you have any questions or need some guidance.

UOW Discovery Day

On 18 February, our year 12 students visited the University of Wollongong for Discovery Day. They chose their own timetable for the day, and got to explore the uni whilst attending the lectures they have chosen. A fabulous experience to understand what uni is like. 

ACU Updates

Discover ACU Series View the series and register 

Various dates during the April and July school holidays 

Tailored to students’ course interests, Discover ACU offers an exciting first taste of university study through interactive, hands-on workshops led by our academic staff. Students will also have the opportunity to speak with current ACU students and gain real insight into what it’s like to study in their chosen field. 

Workshops span a range of disciplines, including Nutrition Science, Nursing, Allied Health (Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy), Education, Exercise and Sports Science, Biomedical Science, Business, Law and Criminology. 

Strathfield Campus Art Gallery Show – Mixed Dozen: Drawing  Visit the Art Gallery’s website for details 

15 April – 14 May 2026  

 In this group exhibition, six senior Australian artists who teach, or have taught, will each select a former student. All twelve artists (a Mixed Dozen of teachers and former students) will present drawings, highlighting the multifarious possibilities of the genre.  

The senior artists include: Peter Burgess, Tracey Clement, collaborative duo Julia Davis and Lisa Jones, Annelies Jahn, Kendal Heyes, and Kurt Schranzer.  

Talk with Industry Webinar Series View the series and register 

Various dates in May 

Students can join us and hear from alumni about their professional experiences after completing their studies at ACU. Take part in a Q&A session with our graduates to find out what your future could hold with one of our degrees. 

Study at ACU Webinar: ACU Guarantee Early Offer, Entry Programs and Pathways Webinar (NSW/ACT/QLD) View the series and register 

Wednesday 22 July at 6.00pm – 6.45pm 

Students can get helpful advice about studying at ACU, how to apply, non-traditional pathways to uni, explore study options and hear from current students about what life is really like at ACU. 

Save the Dates:

Mark your calendars for our 2026 Open Day events: 

• Blacktown Campus: Saturday 25 July at 10.00am- 2.00pm 
• Strathfield Campus: Sunday 16 August at 10.00am – 2.00pm 
• North Sydney Campus: Saturday 5 September at 10.00am –  2.00pm 
• Canberra Campus: Saturday 12 September at 11.00am –  2.00pm 

UOW 2026 Parent and Carer Webinars

Throughout 2026, UOW will be hosting a range of parent and carer webinars designed specifically for families to get the information, updates and confidence they need as they navigate the various stages of high school and the HSC. 

Webinars for families and schools to keep an eye out for in 2026 are listed below; 

• Year 12 Parent & Carer Future Talk Series

  – 4 webinars hosted across 2026 designed to give families clarity, confidence and practical tools to navigate the year ahead.  

Register here: https://www.uow.edu.au/engage/schools-parents/parents-carers/future-talk/  

• Year 11 Parent & Carer Webinar

  – 16^th March (Registrations opening soon) 

• Year 10 Subject Selection Webinar

  – 15^th June (Registrations opening later in the year) 

University of Sydney

Info Night series

On-campus and off-campus: March – April 2026 

Explore your future at the University of Sydney by joining one of our Info Nights, with dates available at venues in Western and Southwest Sydney, the Central Coast, and on campus. 

The events include two concurrent sessions tailored to students in Year 10 or Years 11–12.  The Year 10 session is interactive, helping students link strengths and interests to potential courses and offering clear guidance on subject selection. It also provides a high-level overview of admissions, entry schemes, pathways, fees, scholarships and support services, which are explored in greater depth during the Year 11–12 session. You’ll also have the opportunity to chat with current University of Sydney students and alumni from various study areas and get advice on shaping your own study journey. The on-campus event will feature guided tours of the University.  

Dates and locations are available below:

• Penrith Info Night: 11 March
• Central Coast Info Night: 12 March
• Parramatta Info Night: 25 March
• Liverpool Info Night: 26 March
• On-campus Info Night: 29 April 

Pathways to studying Law at Sydney

Did you know, there are many pathways to studying law at the University of Sydney? Hear from current students who joined the law community at Sydney through an alternate pathway, such as transferring or studying graduate entry law.

Date: Wednesday 11 March
Time: 4 pm (AEDT) Register here

Discover your future in biomedicine and health

Wondering about a career in health or biomedicine? Or a path that leads to research, medicine, public health, or something entirely new? Join our webinar to uncover the possibilities with the Bachelor of Biomedicine and Health, delivered at the heart of a world-class health and research hub at Westmead. Learn how this degree opens doors to careers in health, hospital services, and public health, and serves as a pathway to medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied health programs. Discover how this degree opens doors to exciting careers and future study options.

Date: Wednesday 18 March
Time: 4 pm (AEDT) Register here

UTS Bachelor of Accounting

If you’re a high achiever looking to kick-start a vibrant, successful career in accounting, the UTS Bachelor of Accounting is your perfect choice. A degree like no other, this cooperative scholarship program has been created in collaboration with leading industry partners, giving you the chance to connect with a range of invaluable professional opportunities throughout your studies.

What’s more, as a student in this exclusive program, you’ll receive scholarship funding of up to $18,000 per year, depending on your major and elective choices. With its practical focus, industry connections and customisable learning, this program is your passport to a lucrative future in the exciting world of professional accounting.

Applications for 2027 are now open. Visit the webpage here

Southern Cross Catholic College

Year 10, If  you are interested in the following “Try your Passion day” at Southern Cross Catholic College –  please email me with your expression of interest.

 

Arrive and Thrive Career Conversations @Home

Join Tyson Day, Co-Founder and Lead Facilitator at Arrive and Thrive, for a practical and engaging session on how to spark meaningful career conversations at home.

In this webinar, you’ll discover:

• Simple ways to positively influence your young person’s career decisions.
• How to make sense of the future of work and explore options together.
• How to use the GROW model to guide open, confident conversations about careers.

Everyone who joins will receive a Career Conversation Kit to get started right away.

Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1981687181706?aff=oddtdtcreator

 

 

Lisa Formica, Leader of Pathways and Partnerships

 

Public Speaking News – Ms Susan Kamp

This year a selection of OLM students participated in the Sydney Catholic Schools Public Speaking Competition, held at Bethany College on Friday 28th February. The event involves over 75 high schools across the Greater Sydney Area and this year, more than 5oo students entered. 

Students are required to compose a thought- provoking and original speech from a list of topics and deliver their speech to a small audience of adults and students with confidence and eloquence.

Our Round 1 participating students, who all performed admirably in their specific age group were:

Year 7 Poppy Doyle Brigita Fredotovic Chelsea Zammit

Year 8 Emma Broadhurst Sienna Lauro

Year 9 Kayla Hill Charlie Doyle

Year 10 Anna Govindrulu

 

Thank you to all of the OLM  parents who attended and supported the event.

 

Susan Kamp, Public Speaking and Debating Coordinator

 

Creative and Performing Arts Faculty – Verneen Mason

Hazelhurst Excursion

OLM Visual Arts students from Years 9, 10, 11, and 12 recently embarked on an enriching excursion to the Hazelhurst Arts Centre to view the prestigious ARTEXPRESS 2026 exhibition.

This annual showcase features a curated selection of outstanding HSC Body of Work submissions from the previous year’s Visual Arts cohort across New South Wales.

For our senior students in Years 11 and 12, the visit provided a vital benchmark for the technical and conceptual rigour required for their own upcoming major works. For our Years 9 and 10 elective students, it served as an inspiring preview of the diverse expressive forms available to them in the senior years. 

Witnessing the resolved practice of high-achieving HSC students has already sparked significant discussion, with many students now eager to experiment with new materials and conceptual frameworks in their own studio practice.

2026 Musical

Rehearsals are underway for our upcoming combined College Musical with De La Salle College Caringbah, Shrek Jnr.

 

Verneen Mason, Creative and Performing Arts Coordinator 

Diverse Learning – Gemma Mahoney

A friendly reminder regarding the Diverse Learning update shared in Term 1, Week 3.

We are resharing this information to ensure everyone has the chance to review it as the year gets underway.

This year sees the launch of our Tier 2 Intervention Workshops for Literacy and Numeracy. These workshops provide intensive focus for the small percentage of students who require targeted support to bridge learning gaps. If your daughter fits the criteria for this program, we will be in touch with you shortly.

We are also enhancing our pastoral care with targeted HR Support for students needing help with organisation and anxiety, working closely with the Wellbeing team. Additionally, we will be meeting with students accessing examination provisions to clarify expectations and ensure they are ready for the assessment period.

Personalised Learning Plans (PLP) and Year 7 Consultation

Current Families: We have commenced the review of Personalised Learning Plans (PLPs) from Term 4, 2025, and will continue contacting relevant families to ensure information is current.

Year 7 Families: Please note that you will be contacted specifically during Term 1 for consultation regarding your daughter’s needs.

Exam Provisions

We often receive queries regarding special provisions for examinations. It is important to note that provisions are granted on a strict case-by-case basis.

A diagnosis alone does not automatically guarantee exam provisions. Most importantly, a student must demonstrate that the functional impact of their condition is impeding their ability to access skills and information. Provisions are designed to remove this barrier, not to provide an advantage, and must be supported by evidence.

We will meet with all students receiving provisions early this term to outline the guidelines, expectations, and procedures.

To ensure support measures reflect current needs, provisions that are not actively accessed by the student may be discontinued

Year 7: Term 1, we use this transition period to gather baseline data, conduct observations, and meet with families to ensure Personal Learning Plans are accurately tailored to each student. Students will complete their in class tasks with their class teacher. 

Free Parent Workshops

We believe support works best as a partnership between home and school. In Term 1, our staff are undertaking professional learning specifically on Dyslexia, Specific Learning Disorder and ADHD. We are pleased to offer you access to similar training.

OLT International offers two free online courses for parents 

Click here to access these free parent courses

• Understanding Autism
• Understanding ADHD

Streamlined Communication Process

To ensure your daughter’s reports and updates are actioned efficiently, we have updated our communication channels for 2026.

If you are sending reports, medical updates, or general information, please email me directly:

To: kathy.swan@syd.catholic.edu.au

Please also CC the Learning Support Officer (LSO) for your daughter’s Stage:

Year Group	Stage	Learning Support Officer	Email Contact
Year 7 & 8	Stage 4	Sophie Havers	sophie.havers@syd.catholic.edu.au
Year 9 & 10	Stage 5	Allison Dutton	allison.dutton@syd.catholic.edu.au
Year 11 & 12	Stage 6	Kathy Swan	kathy.swan@syd.catholic.edu.au

I look forward to building a strong partnership with you and your daughter in 2026.

Kind regards,

Gemma Mahoney, Diverse Learning Coordinator