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.

A Different Kind of Update This Week

Last week, our College was interviewed by 10News+ for a feature on our no technology approach for Year 7 students. This initiative is grounded in current research showing that digital devices are not improving learning outcomes and are contributing to a range of wellbeing concerns for young adolescents.

Positive Changes Already Emerging

Since implementing this approach, we are already seeing meaningful improvements across our Year 7 cohort:

• Students are taking greater pride in their workbooks
• Workbooks are fuller, more organised, and show deeper thinking
• Increased collaboration and peer interaction in the classroom
• Stronger relationships forming between students and teachers
• More students raising their hands and engaging in class discussions

These early indicators reinforce that this decision is supporting both learning and wellbeing.

Please have a watch of the short segment that aired on 10News+ last Sunday.

Assistant Principal – Karen Shawcross

We have officially reached the business end of the term, with our Stage 5 students currently in the middle of their exam block. We wish them the absolute best of luck; remembering to get plenty of sleep and keep up a steady study routine. The study habits of many of the girls are positive and encouraging with notes being scanned throughout the day, sitting in the library at lunch and discussing the content with their peers.

Meanwhile, all other year groups have various assessments underway or approaching. Parents, please check in with your daughters to ensure they are keeping track of their due dates and pacing their study.

Wednesday Open Learning Study Sessions

If your daughter is feeling overwhelmed or just needs a quiet, productive space to work, I highly recommend our Wednesday Open Learning Study Sessions.  These are every Wednesday after school until 4:00 pm in the library.   There are a number of teachers who are available to ask questions of and peer tutoring from some of our high achievers of the last year’s HSC.

This is a fantastic resource to help students stay on top of their assessment or homework workloads.

Attendance

We want to support every student in being at school every day they are well. However, we also know that winter illness and the weather can have an impact on this.  If your daughter is sick, please ensure you have made an entry into Compass.  If your daughter is in Years 10 -12  and an exam is missed due to illness, a medical certificate is required to ensure they can apply for an illness/misadventure consideration. 

Punctuality is also important and all girls should be on time for homeroom each day and for all classes.  The first few minutes of each class is important in order to understand the learning intentions of the lesson.  Homeroom punctuality sets the tone for the day, knowing any changes to daily routines or upcoming events ensures that everybody is on task and not missing out.

Uniform

As we hit the middle of the term, I want to thank the vast majority of our students who arrive each day looking sharp and representing our school beautifully.

However, we are noticing a few areas where we can improve. A reminder to all that the blazer is to be worn to and from school each day (excluding Years 7 – 10 Thursday sport), and socks are to be the navy blue OLM socks unless in sports uniform (these are the white OLM socks).  There is no need to have long sleeved undergarments on under the school shirt, if cold the College jumper may be worn under the blazer.   

A reminder to all parents and students that school bags are to remain free of graffiti, drawings, or writing of any kind. If your daughter’s bag currently has writing on it, please ensure it is removed. Thank you for helping us maintain a respectful and tidy school environment.

Years 7 – 12 Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews

A reminder that parent/teacher/student interviews for Years 7 – 12 will be conducted on Thursday, 2 July from 9.30am – 8.00pm and Friday, 3 July from 9.00am – 1.00pm. Details on how to book interviews via Compass will be sent to parents shortly. The interviews will take place at the College.

‘Squishies‘

Lately, we have seen a significant increase in students bringing “squishies,” “NeeDoh” balls, and other gel-filled fidget toys to school. While these items are highly popular, there is no scientific evidence to suggest they benefit learning or concentration for the general student population.

In most cases, they quickly become a major distraction in the classroom. At times, these items (especially gel or foam-filled variations) can split or break, causing a considerable mess.  At OLM sensory and fidget tools are only permitted in class for specific students who require them for focus and regulation (such as students with ADHD or diagnosed sensory needs), as outlined in their individual learning support plans.  Unless your daughter has an agreed-upon support plan with our Diverse Learning Team, please ensure all squishies (and other variations) are left at home. If they are brought to school, they will be confiscated.

Mobile Phone Policy

A quick reminder that our school operates under a NO mobile phone policy. This policy is from the time your daughter enters the school until they are off site at the end of the day,  students’ phones must be switched off and kept securely out of sight.  If your daughter’s mobile phone is seen it is confiscated for the day and a demerit is recorded. If you need to reach your daughter urgently during the day, please call the front office, and we will get a message to them immediately.

Gaming Webinar

As mentioned in the Compass Newsfeed to all parents there is a free, upcoming webinar in regards to gaming on June 2nd.   The webinar entitled “Beyond the Screen: Understanding and Guiding Your Child’s Gaming Life” offers practical, positive ways to manage screen time without the nightly arguments.  It will cover; 

• Understanding why kids love gaming and the psychological needs it meets.
• Spotting the difference between a passionate hobby and unhealthy habits.
• Setting collaborative boundaries so children feel heard, not just restricted.

For more information or to register for the webinar please click here. 

Influenza Vaccine

Influenza (flu) is serious but isn’t as scary if you’re vaccinated. A flu vaccine offers young people the best protection from serious illness.

The nasal spray vaccine is gentle and painless and is now available for FREE for all young people from 2 to 17 years of age in NSW.

Vaccination remains the best protection against serious illness from influenza. Influenza vaccine is recommended annually for everyone aged six months and over.

Learn more www.health.nsw.gov.au/kidsfluvaccine

Book your child’s flu vaccine today. www.healthdirect.gov.au/nswfluvaccine

Karen Shawcross, Assistant Principal

Wednesday Open Learning – Homework Club

If your daughter is feeling overloaded or would simply benefit from a calm and focused place to complete her work, we encourage her to attend our Wednesday Open Learning Study Sessions. These sessions are held each Wednesday after school until 4:00 pm in the Library.

Teachers are on hand to provide guidance, and students also have access to peer support from several of last year’s top performing HSC graduates.

Calendar Update

Term 2 Important Dates

May

Tuesday 26 May – Tuesday 2 June
Years 9 and 10 Assessment Block

June

Wednesday 3 June
SCS Cross Country

Wednesday 3 June
Mabo Day

Thursday 4 June – Wednesday 10 June
Red Earth Immersion

Friday 5 June
Staff Development Day (if you require supervision for your daughter please contact the College)

Monday 8 June
King’s Birthday – Public Holiday

Friday 12 June
Year 7 and 8 Mass @ 1.30pm – St Aloysius Parish Cronulla

Tuesday 16 June
Commerce Market Day

Monday 22 June – Thursday 25 June
OLM and DLS Musical – Shrek Jnr.

Monday 29 June
Newman Symposium Presentation – Years 7 and 8 – 1pm-4pm

July

Thursday 2 July
Years 7 – 12 Parent / Teacher / Student Interviews – 9.30am – 8pm

Friday 3 July
Years 7 – 12 Parent / Teacher / Student Interviews – 9.00am – 1pm

Friday 3 July
End of Term 2

Religious Education Coordinator – Ian Anderson

Over the past few weeks we have experienced in the Mass, the Feasts of the Ascension of the Lord and Pentecost. Pentecost is the birthday of the Church and should call us to remember our call to, “proclaim the Gospel to all nations” (Mark 16:15). This commissioning is not just for the wise and learned but for all Christians. We can do this through our words, or we can do it through action. As a Mercy family, we live our faith; word, thought and deed matter to us. For the past few weeks, the College has continued on its mission to form your daughters in their Catholic identity.

MAG 

MAG (Mercy Action Group) has begun again at recess on Tuesdays and involves students from a variety of year groups joining each other to work together and grow in faith. The girls primarily have sought out to knit garments with the overall goal to donate them as part of the College’s Winter Appeal. While many senior students are now attending, we are asking for students from Years 7-9 to also participate. This is a friendly, welcoming community of Mercy girls who seek to bring the joy of the gospel to people through their charitable actions. If your daughter would like to participate or has questions, Mr Anderson or any of the senior students would be more than happy to assist her in finding her place in our community.

ALPHA Programme

The Alpha programme is a faith formation programme developed about ten years ago by a group of Ecumenical Christians who wanted to help form faith in an ever changing world. ALPHA sets to ask students the big questions of faith in a safe and supportive environment without the stresses of assessment and formality. It speaks to the child of today in an authentic way, calling on participants to deepen their relationship with God. The ALPHA programme is held every Wednesday at recess this term. While we have students from Years 10, 11 and 12 attending, all students are welcome to join. The programme is aimed at students from Year 7 onwards. 

Catechist Programme

This year, the College has added a new initiative to the Spirituality Calendar. We have a collection of 24 Year 10 students who, on Tuesday afternoons, minister by teaching the Catholic Faith at Burraneer Bay Public School. These students have been doing this since the beginning of Term 1 and have been doing a wonderful job bringing the Gospel to students, who without them, may never receive it. Our students remain behind school on these days, taking time out of their own busy schedules to teach, with lessons finishing at 3:10pm. I wanted to commend the Catechist team who continue to do so much good in their local community.

AMSSA

One Meal

On 5 May, five students, with Mr Anderson and their parents, attended One Meal to feed members of the local community, who lack resources. Many of these families suffer financial difficulties, whilst others are seeking community as they are lonely. It is our One Meal team that reaches out to offer these families a hand up of support so they feel less alone. At One Meal, we serve food, we bring in dessert for them and clean up at the end of the night. This is truly one of our College’s most valuable ministries.

Upcoming Events

On 3 June, eight of our Year 9 students have been invited into the city to participate in the Sistine Chapel Immersion at St Mary’s Cathedral. This digital light exhibition allows viewers to experience the artworks of the Sistine Chapel in an engaging and immersive way.

These students will be accompanying and supporting members of the St Aloysius Parish who are preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation this year. The day will include Mass, a guided tour of the St Mary’s Cathedral Crypts, the Immersion experience, and a concluding session in which our students will assist the Confirmation candidates in learning about their chosen Confirmation Saint.

For those families interested in experiencing the Sistine Chapel Immersion, this is part of Sydney’s Vivid Festival. Attached here is a link.

Ian Anderson, Religious Education Coordinator

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

OLM and ACU Collaboration Australian Catholic University 

Exciting opportunity to take part in a joint OLM and ACU Collaboration Australian Catholic University – Invitation to all Year 7 and 8 students 

Our Lady of Mercy Burraneer is pleased to collaborate with researchers from the Australian Catholic University (ACU) on an important study exploring vocabulary and student learning. By hosting this research, Our Lady of Mercy Burraneer is playing an active role in shaping the future of literacy education in Australian secondary schools, and we are delighted to be partnering with one of the country’s leading research teams. 

Benefit for students is a boost to vocabulary: In this study, students will be taught 16 new curriculum specific words and definitions. 

ICAS Tests

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College is pleased to invite students to participate in the ICAS Assessments^TM in Term 3 this year.

ICAS is designed to target students’ higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills in English, Science and we have recently added Mathematics. Each assessment celebrates students’ accomplishments by providing opportunities for recognition and development. Every student will receive a printed certificate and an online results report. Top performers will be eligible for medals and are invited to attend special award ceremonies to have their academic excellence publicly recognised. 

We encourage you to consider entering your daughter into ICAS this year. The opportunity to sit ICAS assessments at OLM will continue to be optional, and students may sit one or all of the assessments on offer at OLM. The assessments are suitable for students wishing to extend themselves academically and take up the personal challenge of competing in an international assessment that has been running for 40 years. Your daughter will be presented with high-quality, expert-developed questions, allowing them to apply their learning without the need for prior study or revision. 

2026 Participation – Parent payment system 

Our school has signed up for the ICAS Assessments parent payment system (PPS) for all assessments. Through this system parents can pay for ICAS directly online while tests will still be held at our school.

Please use the following details to register and pay for your daughter no later than Friday, 25 July (Term 3 Week 1). 

Access details for parents

OLM parent page link is:  https://shop.icasassessments.com/pages/parent-payment/GFC685 

OLM school access code is: GFC685 

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

Newman News – Ms Kate Berger

Newman Symposium

We welcome parents, families and our wider community to the Year 7 and 8 Newman Symposium this year, to be held on Monday 29th June, from 3pm – 4:30pm at the College. 

Students will be showcasing their learning on the topic ‘moments in time’. Students are tasked with producing a product/performance/initiative/interactive experience that will address the topic.

Year 7 will create a display conveying a moment in time and a counter-history (What would have happened if…?). They will have a choice of mode from a provided list.

Year 8 will take the theme and do a ‘Science Fair-style’ interactive display of their research and, if appropriate, a product.  

Kate Berger
Newman Coordinator

Year 7 News – Mr Reece Bailey

Welcome to the latest update for our vibrant Year 7 community. It has been an incredibly fast paced term at Our Lady of Mercy College. Our girls have jumped into college life with enthusiasm, demonstrating the compassion and spirit that defines a Mercy girl.

Focused on Learning

Alongside all our community events, the academic engine has been running at full speed. Our Year 7 girls are currently navigating their mid term assessment tasks, and the dedication in the classrooms is noticeable. Balancing high school assessments with a packed co-curricular schedule can be challenging, but largely our students are showing great focus, resilience, and maturity as they develop their study routines. We commend them for putting in their best efforts during this busy time of learning.

Shining Outside of the Classroom

Beyond the classroom, our girls have been absolute powerhouses, demonstrating immense talent and prowess across a diverse range of fields. In the sporting arena, our Year 7 athletes have shown fantastic teamwork and determination in both water polo and touch football. Year 7 students also shone at the athletics carnival, breaking several College records. On stage, our Dance Ensemble moved with incredible grace and energy winning the SCS Eisteddfod. Finally our Year 7 Debating teams have been articulate and persuasive, winning arguments with sharp logic and confidence. They are currently on track to make the finals. It is wonderful to see our students embracing their varied passions and finding so much success early in their high school journey.

Bridging the Generations

Perhaps the most rewarding addition to our schedule this term has been our weekly visits to the Stella Maris Aged Care facility in Cronulla. Each week, a group of Year 7 students has been spending time socialising with the residents. Whether they are sharing stories, playing games, or simply listening, our girls are learning the invaluable lesson of “presence.” These intergenerational connections are already blossoming into beautiful friendships, proving that age is no barrier to a good conversation.

We are proud of how our Year 7 girls are navigating this busy term. Their willingness to engage with both their local community and their creative studies is a joy to witness. 

Reece Bailey, Instructional Leader of Wellbeing – Year 7

Year 8 News – Ms Kristie Clemensen

A Positive Start to Term 2

Year 8 have begun the term with energy, focus and a commitment to their learning. It has been encouraging to see students demonstrating curiosity and a growing sense of independence as they settle into the routines of Term 2. I have enjoyed stepping into the role of relieving Instructional Leader of Wellbeing for Year 8 this term and it’s been great to see such a positive and energetic start from the cohort.

Developing Effective Study Habits

Earlier this term, students engaged in an assembly centered on time management and study skills. They explored practical strategies such as breaking tasks into smaller steps, using weekly planners, prioritising deadlines and applying active study techniques. These approaches are increasingly important as academic expectations grow and students learn to balance multiple commitments.

To support these skills, students were encouraged to:

• Plan weekly tasks – mapping out homework, assessments and revision.
• Break down assignments – turning large tasks into achievable actions.
• Use active study methods – such as summarising, quizzing and teaching others.

Celebrating Student Achievements

Our Year 8 students have also taken great pride in celebrating the successes of their peers. The Debating team has had an outstanding start to the season, winning five consecutive rounds and showcasing teamwork and critical thinking. Meanwhile, our talented Dance Troupe achieved First place at their recent SCS Eisteddfod, a testament to their dedication, creativity and collaborative spirit.

Looking Ahead to Assessments

As we move toward the upcoming assessment period, it is important for students to remain organised, proactive and focused. Encouraging a positive mindset, seeking clarification when needed and maintaining consistent study routines will help set them up for success. 

We are incredibly proud of how our Year 8 students have taken this busy term in their stride. They’ve shown  resilience as they have adapted to the ILW changes, all while still working consistently in the classroom.

Kristie Clemensen, Relieving Instuctional Leader of Wellbeing – Year 8

Year 9 News – Mr Christopher Shelston

PPEP Presentation 12/5/26  

Last week, a presenter from PPEP (Period, Pain, Endometriosis Program) visited our school to speak with students about different types of pain and effective management strategies, with a particular focus on endometriosis. The session was highly engaging, with the presenter involving students through questions, prizes, and the use of anatomical models to provide clear visual examples. The presentation offered valuable insight into the various forms of pelvic, organ, and muscular pain, along with general strategies for managing them. Throughout the session, the presenter emphasised the importance of seeking support from a trusted doctor or adult for any personal health concerns.

Year 9 found this presentation insightful and provided practical solutions to assist young women in managing pain, understanding the anatomy to assist and provided us with a better understanding of the human body and systems. 

Written by Kayla Hill and Charlie Doyle

Assessment Block

The Year 9 Assessment Block is underway, providing students with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of course content covered so far this year. Students have also begun their first exam block, building important skills in managing multiple assessments within a set timeframe. 

It is normal for students to experience some level of stress during exams. However, it is important they are equipped with strategies to manage this effectively.

We are encouraging students to:

• Maintain a balanced routine, including regular sleep and exercise.
• Take short breaks when studying to stay refreshed.
• Speak with teachers, parents, or trusted peers if they feel overwhelmed.
• Focus on effort and progress, rather than perfection.

It has been encouraging to see many students taking advantage of Open Learning sessions to support their preparation. We strongly encourage all students to continue utilising this valuable study time, held each Wednesday afternoon in the school library.

Winter Uniform Reminder

As we move through Term 2, all students are expected to be in full winter uniform. This includes wearing the school blazer to and from the College, along with the correct winter uniform items. The full list is shown below and further information can be found in the College diary on Pages 18-21

We greatly appreciate the continued support of parents and carers in ensuring students meet these expectations.

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

It has been a busy and productive few weeks for our Year 10 students.

Last week, our Year 9 and 10 students attended an important and deeply informative assembly hosted by the Pelvic Pain Foundation Australia. The session focused on the PPEP Talk® (Periods, Pain, and Endometriosis Program), a nationally recognised initiative aimed at breaking the stigma around menstrual health and equipping young people with practical tools to manage pelvic pain.

The presentation delivered age-appropriate, medically accurate information, covering:

• Normal vs. Severe Pain: Helping students identify when period discomfort requires medical investigation.
• Understanding Endometriosis: Explaining endometriosis and pelvic floor muscle spasms in an accessible, stigma-free way.
• Practical Self-Care: Sharing actionable strategies to reduce pain, including specific exercises and lifestyle adjustments.
• Self-Advocacy: Empowering students to speak up and confidently seek help from healthcare professionals.

We encourage you to open up a conversation at home by asking what they learned. For excellent, evidence-based family resources, visit the Pelvic Pain Foundation Australia website.

Year 10 Assessment Block

Year 10 are currently undertaking their examination block. This is a pivotal period that serves as vital preparation for the independent demands of Years 11 and 12. To achieve their potential while maintaining their wellbeing, we encourage students to focus on four pillars:

Organisation: Success starts with preparation. Students should map out a clear study timetable, organise their notes early, and break large subjects down into smaller, daily revision topics.

Active Studying: Rereading notes provides a false sense of security. Encourage your teenager to use active recall strategies, such as flashcards, practice papers under timed conditions, or explaining concepts out loud.

Healthy Balance: Non-stop cramming is counterproductive. Brains need downtime to process information. Ensure your student protects their sleep (8–9 hours), maintains regular exercise, and takes structured breaks during study sessions.

Managing Stress: A little stress can sharpen focus, but too much is overwhelming. Remind your child that while these exams matter, they are a measure of current learning, not a definition of their worth.

If your daughter is feeling overwhelmed or needs extra guidance with her revision schedules, our teaching staff and myself are readily available to assist.

Courtney Kramer
Year 10 Instructional Leader Wellbeing

Year 11 & 12 News – Mrs Maria Biala

Partnering in Progress: Navigating Feedback and Wellbeing

“Withholding feedback is choosing comfort over growth” Brené Brown

As we move further into the academic year, your daughter is likely receiving a steady stream of results and comments on their work. This stage of Term 2 is a critical juncture where the pressure of Year 11 and 12 can begin to feel personal. As parents, your role in helping them navigate this feedback is vital. How a student internalises a critique can make the difference between them feeling empowered to improve or feeling defeated by the process.

It is important to help students see that feedback is not a judgment of their character, but a roadmap for their growth. When a student receives a grade that doesn’t meet their expectations, the emotional response can often block out the constructive advice provided by the teacher. We encourage you to help your child look past the letter or number at the top of the page and focus on the specific “next steps” suggested in the margins. By shifting the conversation from “What did you get?” to “What did you learn for next time?”, we can foster a growth mindset that serves them well beyond the classroom.

The mental health of our seniors is paramount during these peak assessment periods. Receiving criticism, even when constructive, can be taxing on a teenager’s self-esteem. If your child is feeling overwhelmed by their results, encourage them to use the “24-Hour Rule”—putting the work away for a day to allow the initial disappointment to fade before revisiting the comments with a clear head. Remind them that their ATAR or unit scores are snapshots of a moment in time, not a final verdict on their intelligence or their future potential.

In Week 5 our Year 12 students were to continue their personal growth with their second session of the Tomorrow Woman program. In this session the students expanded on their previous reflections and also got to know each other more deeply, working together to strengthen both their own capabilities and their capacity to work as a whole. Both Year 11 and 12 have been part of this program this year, and we can see some great benefits to mind set. 

Finally, open communication with teachers is a tool that many students are hesitant to use, but one that yields the best results. If your child is confused by the feedback they’ve received, please encourage them to seek a brief one-on-one follow-up with their educator. Approaching these conversations as a collaboration rather than a confrontation helps students regain a sense of agency over their learning. Thank you for your continued support in helping our students stay resilient, balanced, and focused on their long-term goals.

Mrs Maria Biala
Instructional Leader of Wellbeing – Year 11 & 12

Instructional Leader – Co-Curricular – Danielle Polson

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

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

Athletics Carnival – Results

Our school lit up the Sylvania Athletics Track on Friday with a carnival full of colour, competition and community spirit. Sunshine warmed the day while a cold wind kept athletes sharp, but nothing could dampen the enthusiasm on display.

Students filled the venue with chants, banners and nonstop encouragement, showing incredible house spirit from the first race to the final relay.

Events were fiercely contested, with our students giving their all across track and field. Just as impressive was the strong participation from every year group, making the day a true whole school effort.

There were many records broken:

Scout Koernig 12 Years 800m – broke the record set by Layla White in 2022 Scout Koernig 12 Years 1500m  – broke the record set by Layla White in 2022

Emma Russell 12 Years Discus – broke the record set by Josephine Driscoll in 2005 Emma Russell 12 Years Shot Put – broke the record set by Isabella Walker in 2014

Jenna Haydon 13 Years 800m – broke the record set by Layla White in 2023 Jenna Haydon 13 Years 1500m – broke the record set by Layla White in 2023

Abbie Russell 14 Years Discus – broke the record set by Julia Spiteri in 1994

Maddie Calabro  17+ Years – set the 800m record

Phoenix Grady 17+ Years – set the Long Jump record

Catherine Palamara 17+ Years 100m – broke the record set by Amelia Buhagiar in 2025 Catherine Palamara 17+ Years 200m – broke the record set by Olivia Wellington in 2025

Isabella Prany 17+ Years Shot Put – broke the record set by  Dakota Strettles   in 2025 Isabella Prany 17+ Years Discus – broke the record set by Angelina De Frenza in 2025

Congratulations to the following students who were named Age Champions:

12 Years – Scout Koernig 2nd – Annabelle Harrison 3rd – Emma Russell	13 Years – Piper Hansen 2nd – Jenna Haydon 3rd – Victoria Trajcevski and Freeya Sinclair
14 Years – Chloe McIntosh 2nd – Sienna Beazleigh 3rd – Veronica Rogers	15 Years – Felicity Barnes 2nd – Grace Culbert 3rd – Abby Cowan and Jayde Hartup
16 Years – Layla White 2nd – Liesl Spinner 3rd – Ella McGuinness	17+ Years – Catherine Palamara 2nd – Isabella Prany and Phoenix Grady

A number of students will be selected to represent OLM at the Conference 3 Carnival at Homebush in August. We wish those students the best of luck.

Danielle Polson, Instructional Leader Co-Curricular

Creative and Performing Arts Faculty – Verneen Mason

Performing Arts Success: 1st Place and Awards at the SCS Eisteddfod

What an incredible couple of weeks it has been for our Performing Arts community. Our students recently competed at Sydney Catholic Schools Eisteddfod, showcasing their immense talent, dedication, and school spirit.

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that our Dance Troupe took out 1st Place in their competitive section! The girls delivered a flawless, high-energy routine that captivated the judges and truly set the standard for the day.

Our Vocal Ensemble also took to the stage, singing absolutely amazingly in a highly competitive category. Their beautiful harmonies and stage presence earned them a well-deserved Encouragement Award.

Our Chamber Group was awarded first place in the SCS Eisteddfod. This outstanding achievement is a testament to their dedication and commitment.

Congratulations to all of our students. You presented yourselves with distinction and represented the school with great pride. I commend you on the hard work and commitment you demonstrated in the lead up to these performances.

Verneen Mason
Instructional Leader of Curriculum – CAPA

English Faculty News

Year 7 and 8 students attended the Sydney Writers’ Festival this week at Sydney Town Hall to listen to three different authors writing in three different Young Adult genres.

Amy Doak spoke about her crime fiction writing, Josh Silver spoke about mental health in his books and  Alexandra Moody spoke about her romance novels.

Students found out about the creative and publishing process and had an opportunity to ask questions in a plenary session.

Ms Ljubica Peric, English Teacher

Leader of Pathways and Partnerships – Lisa Formica

Year 11 Tours TAFE / UTS and HSC and Careers Expo

On Friday 29 May our Year 11 students visited Ultimo TAFE and UTS where they were given a quick tour, learning about the many courses on offer and pathways available. After these tours, we attended the HSC and Careers Expo at Randwick Racecourse. There is something for everyone at this expo, from different universities, to TAFE, to private providers as well as large employers and industry associations. Our Year 11 students were able to learn about courses, scholarships and occupation options. It is a fantastic opportunity to really deeply consider their post-school pathway.

The HSC and Careers Expo is open to the public on Saturday 30 May. Details are available here.

EMPOWER Lunches

Empower lunches have begun. Different speakers attend during lunch time to discuss their occupation in a casual, informal way with students from any year group. This is a great way for students to hear about the day to day duties of a role, and the different ways to enter that role, from someone still working.

It is also a fabulous networking opportunity for students to develop connections they may not otherwise have. All students are welcome.

Last week we had a presentation on Law, many thanks to Charlotte Morson from the Legal Costs Consultants. It was illuminating and motivating for the students who attended.

On Monday we had a student who is studying pre-med at UOW come to discuss pathways to Medicine and what it is like to study Medicine. We were very fortunate to have Ruby, a student ambassador from UOW who is a graduate of the Medical Science Degree, and now undertaking a PhD in medical research. She explained the process of entering post-graduate medicine. She clearly articulated the different pathways students can undertake and the differences between the Medical Science and Pre-med Degree at UOW. She also explained the different post-graduate pathways students can then move into.

Upcoming

Tuesday 2 June – Mirvac – Construction and Project Management

Monday 15 June – Paramedicine (UTS discussing their Sydney based talk)

If you are interested in assisting with a casual half hour chat to our students about your position, I would love to hear from you. Please email lisa.formica@syd.catholic.edu.au.

Scholarships

There are many different scholarships available to students. University websites have easy to follow scholarship pages to assist students when determining which scholarships they are eligible for.

A very prestigious scholarship is the UTS Bachelor of Accounting Co-op scholarship. This scholarship includes two 6 month internships valued at up to $56,000 across 3 years. Benefits of the internship include not only supporting the studies the students are undertaking, but also providing valuable work experience – scholars are fully employed usually prior to graduation.

Natalie Cantlon – an OLM Alumni and recipient of the scholarship in 2026 visited our senior students this week to discuss the scholarship, her experience in the application process and how her study is progressing this year. We thank Natalie for sharing her valuable insights. (Natalie is pictured in the middle of the group.)

UNSW also offer a range of co-op scholarships if the Bachelor of Accounting is not your preference.

UOW

Year 10 Subject Selection Webinar – 7pm, 15 June: Register Here

USyd

Published events – Undergraduate events

Year 10 Online Information Night: 11 June @ 6pm – Register here

This session will support you in navigating the subject‑selection process and preparing for your pathway to university. It will cover key topics such as what to consider when choosing subjects for Years 11 and 12, how subject choices can influence adjustment factors, an explanation of the ATAR and how it is calculated, as well as information on prerequisites and assumed knowledge. You’ll also receive helpful tips on admissions and scholarships, along with insights from current students about their own subject‑selection decisions and transition to university.

Year 11 and 12 Online Information Night: 16 June @ 6pm – Register here

Learn all about the University of Sydney, from entry requirements and scholarships to study options, pathways, and the wide range of student support services available. Hear from current students and alumni as they share their educational journeys.

Women in Engineering Scholarship Information Night : Wednesday 3 June 2026, 5pm–8 pm (AEST) – Register here

Did you know Sydney is investing $2 million in scholarships for women in engineering in 2027? Are you in Year 11 or 12 and thinking about studying engineering, computer science or project management? Join us at the Women in Engineering Info Night to hear from inspiring students and academic leaders, explore where these degrees can take you and discover a community where women are supported to lead, innovate and thrive.  

UNSW

2026 UNSW Girls in Business Camp: Registrations open 25 May

Female students in Years 10–12 are invited to explore how human skills like creativity, ethical decision-making, collaboration and emotional intelligence will shape success in an AI-driven world. Across four dynamic days, students will build confidence and future-ready skills through inspiring workshops, industry experiences and real-world challenges.

Find out more here

UNSW Future Creators’ Day July

Years 10 & 11 students are invited to explore creative careers and uni life through immersive, hands-on workshops from UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture. These engaging workshops led by academics and industry professions will cover Game Design, Animation, Fashion, Graphic Design, Jewellery and more.

Register here

Western Sydney University

Discover Western Webinars

Our 2026 Discover Western webinar series featured webinars aimed at Educators, Parents and Students. Watch the webinars on demand to hear all about our early offer program, alternative entry, Scholarships and student life. 

• Discover Western – Pathways, Alternative Entry and Early Offers | Tuesday 9 June, 5:00pm
• Discover Western – Uni Life, and Making the Most of Your Time At Uni | Tuesday 28 July, 5:00pm
• Discover Western – Scholarships | Tuesday 18 August, 5:00pm

Register here

UAC

Early Offer Programs

Different universities have different programs regarding early offers. A summary of these are found here in the UAC website. To ensure your information is accurate, please check the details on the individual institution websites.

Key dates

3 August 2026 – 9am – Schools Recommendation Scheme ratings open for international applicants

11 September 2026 – 11.59pm – Schools Recommendation Scheme applications close

30 September 2026 – 11.59pm – Early bird processing charge deadline

16 October 2026 – 11.59pm – Schools Recommendation Scheme ratings close

12 November 2026 – 7.30am – Schools Recommendation Scheme early offers released

16 December 2026 – 6am – HSC results released

16 December 2026 – 9am – ATARs released

18 December 2026 – 11.59pm – December Round 2 change of preference deadline

23 December 2026 – 7.30am – December Round 2 offers released

8 January 2027 – 7.30am – January Round 1 offers released

Inspired Ed HSC Trial Preparation Classes

Led by senior HSC teachers/markers, each workshop:

• Breaks down each of the harder areas of the syllabus into “must-know” priorities
• Shares the marker’s blueprint for structuring Band 6 answers
• Provides practice questions, live feedback, and worked solutions
• Includes a comprehensive take-home revision booklet
• For all the details, visit inspired.edu.au

University of Sydney Centre For Continuing Education HSC Prep Courses

HSC preparation short courses at CCE, the University of Sydney, are designed to help students approach their final exams with confidence. Each course offers up-to-date content, expert teaching and a clear focus on exam readiness.

Explore a wide range of subjects including HSC mathematics, English, business studies, economics, biology, chemistry, physics and more. Courses also cover key skills such as essay writing, critical thinking, time management and study strategies.

Ideal for consolidating school learning and building subject confidence, these holiday intensives are led by experienced educators who understand the demands of the HSC.

Courses are affordable, convenient and delivered face-to-face at the University of Sydney campus.

Download our HSC preparation course timetable for July 2026 (20 KB).

University Open Days

Lisa Formica
Leader of Pathways and Partnerships