Welcome to the community of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer. Striving for excellence, we are the only specialist all-girls school in the Sutherland Shire.
I offer the following information on behalf of Fr. James regarding a momentous event in the life of St. Aloysius Parish.
I highly urge our families to participate in this important occasion.
On Friday, 28 June 2024 at 6:30pm St Aloysius Catholic Church, Cronulla will celebrate its centenary with a special Mass to be celebrated by The Archbishop of Sydney Most Rev. Anthony Fisher OP.
After the Mass, celebrations will proceed at the St. Aloysius Parish Grounds and Thornton Hall.
Coolangatta House Blessing and Opening
Last week marked a significant milestone for OLM with the official Opening and Blessing of our new Senior Learning Hub – Coolangatta House. This event was truly momentous, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who have continuously supported our College.
I am grateful to Bishop Umbers and Fr James McCarthy for leading our Blessing ceremony. Special appreciation goes to the Sydney Catholic Schools for their coordination and management of the project, and a heartfelt thank you to our very own John Williams and Leonie Pearce for their pivotal roles in leading the project committee, ensuring that the project met the needs of our community and students.
Over the past two years, our College has experienced profound transformations, marking a pivotal moment in its history. The introduction of Stage 6 in 2024 signifies the beginning of a new chapter, as we prepare the inaugural cohort of Year 11 students to undertake their HSC in 2025. As the sole all-girls College in the Sutherland Shire, we are dedicated to leaving a lasting impression on our local community.
Coolangatta House is not just a building; it is an integral part of our HSC enrichment program. It empowers our girls to embark on their future endeavours with confidence, purpose, and a deep sense of significance.
This beautiful new building is not just a structure of bricks and mortar; it is a testament to the pursuit of excellence that defines our school community. Coolangatta House stands as a beacon of possibility, a sanctuary where the value of excellence comes to life in every corner. But excellence is not just about the physical space; it is about the mindset we bring to our learning and our lives, it is about character, about integrity, about the values that define who we are as individuals and as a community. It is about kindness, compassion, and empathy; about lifting each other up and celebrating each other’s successes. It is about standing up for what is right, even when it is not easy, and about treating others with the dignity and respect they deserve. It is about embracing challenges with courage and resilience, and about striving for greatness in everything we do. As our College motto, “Encouraging Girls and Empowering Women,” reminds us, we are not simply passive recipients of knowledge; we are active participants in our own empowerment and in the empowerment of those around us.
Coolangatta House Official Blessing & Opening
Dean of School – Mr Paul Hughes
In 2024 our OLM community is targeting the Mercy value of dignity. One area of life where young people find this value to be challenged or at least somewhat forgotten is in the digital and online world. We know that this part of life is here to stay and it can play a positive role in an adolescent’s development if they, with support, manage this as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Respecting others and earning respect online as an adolescent involves practising good digital citizenship and cultivating empathy and understanding. Below are some essential tips for adolescents to ensure everyone’s dignity is upheld while using social media:
Be Mindful of Your Words and Actions: Remember that what you say and do online can have real consequences. Before posting or commenting, consider how your words might affect others.
Treat Others with Kindness and Empathy: Just as you would in face-to-face interactions, be empathetic and considerate of others’ feelings and perspectives. Avoid engaging in cyberbullying or spreading ‘hate speech’.
Respect Privacy: Be cautious about sharing personal information, photos, or videos online, not just about yourself but also about others. Respect others’ privacy by not sharing their personal information without permission.
Practise Active Listening: When engaging in online discussions or debates, take the time to listen to others’ viewpoints without immediately dismissing them. Constructive dialogue is essential for mutual respect and understanding.
Think Before Reacting: If you encounter something online that upsets you, take a step back before responding. Responding impulsively can escalate conflicts and lead to misunderstandings.
Seek Permission Before Sharing: If you want to share someone else’s content or information, ask for their permission first. Respect their right to control their own online presence.
Stand Up Against Online Harassment: If you witness cyberbullying or harassment, don’t be a bystander. Support the victim and report the behaviour to the appropriate platform or authority.
Educate Yourself About Online Etiquette: Stay informed about the latest trends and norms in online behaviour. Understanding digital etiquette will help you navigate online interactions more effectively.
Lead by Example: Set a positive example for others by consistently demonstrating respect and kindness in your online interactions. Your behaviour can influence others to do the same.
Be Open to Learning and Growing: Recognize that nobody is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes online. Be open to receiving feedback and learning from your experiences to become a better digital citizen.
Year 7 & 8 students had a visit from Senior Constable Adam Taylor who is a Police Liaison Officer for schools and he reinforced the above tips and strategies to avoid the pitfalls of online activity. An event is planned in the coming weeks for our Year 9 & 10 students.
Additionally, at our recent Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting this topic was discussed exploring key messages for safe and positive interaction with technology and importantly social media.
By following these guidelines, adolescents can foster a culture of respect and positivity online, ultimately contributing to a safer and more inclusive digital environment for everyone.
If you would like further information about these topics or you have any concerns I encourage you to contact your daughter’s WellBeing Leader (ILW) for more information.
Collaboration between OLM BUrraneer and DLSCaringbah
A further exciting initiative that has commenced in Term 2 is the collaborative study groups occurring weekly between Our Lady of Mercy and De La Salle Caringbah Year 11 students. During these sessions staff from both colleges attend to provide support for any upcoming assessment tasks and the end of course examinations that will take place in Term 3.
We look forward to extending the opportunities for collaboration between both schools that capture opportunities to work and connect over relevant topics for each of our year groups.
Dean of Mission – Mrs Marg Marriott
The Blessing and Opening of Coolangatta House was a historical event in the life of OLM this week.
We had many significant guests from the Sydney Catholic Schools Team, the Executive Director, the Sisters of Mercy, local Principals, past Principals and clergy. Bishop Richard Umbers was our celebrant and our Vocal Ensemble led us in the singing. The reflective hearts of our students were very much on display as they demonstrated great patience, reverence and pride in their presentation and participation. I was humbled by their beautiful contribution to the event and felt so proud of them.
We had six extraordinary Year 10 students facilitate the St Aloysius Parish Confirmation Program this week, under the direction of Deacon Adrian. Amelia Gray, Daniella Edwards, Alexia Stojanoska, Laura Skoric, Emilia Jennings-Smith and Bella Bayer were incredible ambassadors for our College.
Years 7 and 8 students attended the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart Mass at St Aloysius on Friday 7 June. Students in the choir prepared to lead hymns and we are most grateful to Mrs Ciara Gabriele for her leadership of our singers.
Jersey Day on the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, our Australian Patroness and the College community was a great success in supporting students in need of funds to access education through the Catholic Education Foundation. Over $1000 was generously raised by the OLM community, of whom we are very proud.
The Parish of St Aloysius is celebrating its Centenary with a Mass on Friday 28 June at 6:30pm with the Archbishop Anthony Fisher presiding. There will be a reception after the Mass and everyone is most welcome to attend. We currently have five students representing the College in their OLM uniforms, and we require many more, so we need your support for this historic celebration. Please let Mrs Marriott know if you are available to attend. It will contribute to the girl’s Mercy Hours.
Deacon Adrian Sunyato will have his Ordination to the Priesthood on Thursday 11 July at St Mary’s Cathedral at 7pm. Whilst we understand it is in the school holidays, we would love to have many OLM students in uniform and their families present. Deacon Adrian has brought so much heart to our OLM family and we are looking forward to a big show of support for his special event. Please contact Mrs Marriott if you are planning on attending as we will arrange to sit together in the Cathedral. The first Mass he celebrates is called a Thanksgiving Mass and it will be at St Aloysius Catholic Church Cronulla on Saturday 13 July at 5pm. Everyone from OLM is invited to attend. Again, please contact Mrs Marriott if you will be attending. We would hope that many more could be present for this Mass as it is closer to home for most.
Leader of Learning – Integrated Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment – Miss Lisa Romberg
“We define learning as the transformative process of taking in information that—when internalized and mixed with what we have experienced—changes what we know and builds on what we do. It’s based on input, process, and reflection. It is what changes us.”
Assessments
Thank you to the many parents who have read the assessment policy. As we are at the peak time of assessments we greatly appreciate your support and understanding of the requirements around absences from assessment tasks.
A reminder that for Year 7 and 8, a note from home to the class teacher is sufficient for students who miss an assessment task due to illness or misadventure.
For those in Year 9 to 11 a Medical certificate from a Doctor of Pharmacist is required for in-class tasks that are missed due to illness. This procedure promotes fairness and equity to all students for RoSA (Record of School Achievement) Grades which are submitted to NESA for students in Years 9 to 11. This College procedure is one followed by schools to ensure that students know and follow expectations which is particularly essential in Year 12.
We understand at this time of the year that many students are unwell, particularly with the recent bout of COVID and respiratory infections going around. Please keep your daughters home if they are unwell, so that they can recover and also to prevent the spread of these infectious diseases.
We look forward to discussing your daughter’s learning in Semester 1 with you at the end of this term during our Parent, Student, Teacher Conferences
Please save the dates:
Thursday 4 July – 3:30-7:45pm
Friday 5 July – 9:00am-1:00pm
Reports will be released on Wednesday 3 July.
NEWMAN Symposium
For students in the NEWMAN cluster classes, students will be starting our NEWMAN Symposium planning and production this term. This symposium will be held in Term 3 and all students involved are expected to attend this symposium. We ask that parents assist their daughter’s to clear the afternoon calendar for Monday 14 August. We look forward to the many wonderful and creative projects that the girls will produce.
Starting Assignments Straight Away: Why It’s Crucial for Success
Ever leave your assignments until the last minute? Procrastination might seem harmless, but it can lead to unnecessary stress and lower-quality work. Here are four compelling reasons to start working on your assignments immediately:
1. Get Your Brain Thinking About the Topic
At the very least, read through the requirements of the assignment on the day you receive it. Even if you’re not actively working on it, your subconscious will begin processing the information. This early engagement can help you come up with ideas and understand the scope of the assignment more thoroughly.
2. Find Library Resources
Although the internet offers a wealth of information, the school library is also a valuable resource. Drop in soon after receiving the assignment. Reference books, academic journals, and magazines are often in high demand and can disappear quickly. Relying solely on Google may limit the depth and quality of your research. Your librarian is a great ally in your research. Librarians can guide you to relevant books, journals, and digital resources that you might not find on your own.
3. Starting Early Means More Time to Explore & Ask for Help
Starting your research early gives you more time to dive deep into your topic. Use a variety of sources such as the library, teacher references, school textbooks, and reliable internet resources. If you start early, you can identify gaps in your understanding and have ample time to ask your teacher for clarification or additional help.
4. Create a Safety Net
Life is unpredictable. Starting your assignment immediately creates a buffer for unforeseen events like illness or emergencies. A well-planned schedule that allows for the unexpected ensures you have enough time to complete your assignment without unnecessary stress.
Additional Tips for Effective Assignment Management
Break Down the Assignment
Divide your assignment into smaller, manageable tasks. Create a timeline with specific goals for each day or week. This will help you stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Stay Organised
Keep all your research materials, notes, and drafts in one place. Use folders, both physical and digital, to categorize information by topic or section of your assignment. This organization will save you time and keep your work streamlined.
Set Specific Goals
Set clear, achievable goals for each study session. For example, aim to complete a specific section of your assignment or gather a certain number of sources. This focused approach will keep you motivated and on track.
Take Breaks
While it’s important to start early and stay on task, it’s equally important to take regular breaks. Short breaks can help you stay refreshed and maintain a high level of productivity.
Review and Revise
Once you’ve completed your assignment, take time to review and revise it. Check for any grammatical errors, ensure all your sources are properly cited, and verify that your arguments are coherent and well-supported.
By starting your assignments as soon as possible and following these tips, you can reduce stress, improve the quality of your work, and achieve better academic results.
You can learn more about being more effective with assessments in the ASSIGNMENT SKILLS unit of www.studyskillshandbook.com.au by logging in with these details:
School username: OLMBurraneer
School password: Mercy
Monday Afternoon Open Learning
Our Monday Afternoon Open Learning started last term. We now have between 20-35 students regularly attending. This will be held in the Library each Monday 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: – assistance with time management and planning – tips and tricks to developing study tools such as mind maps, study notes, flash cards – subject specialists who can help answer questions
If your daughter is interested in participating in Monday Afternoon Open Learning please give permission on COMPASS Event: Monday Afternoon Open Learning OR complete the permission note in the letter and return to the College library.
ICAS Tests
Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College is pleased to invite students to participate in the ICAS AssessmentsTM 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 OLMC will continue to be optional, and students may sit one or all of the assessments on offer at OLMC. 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.
2024 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, 26 July (Term 3 Week 1).
Leader of Pathways and Partnerships – Lisa Formica
Are you interested in a career in Medicine? NIE is one company who offers preparatory courses for the UCAT. Please see this website if you are interested.
On Friday 31 May our Year 10 and Year 11 students attended the Career’s Expo. It is a major event and greatly supports our students in understanding pathways, courses and options for post-school. The students visited over 80 exhibitors including universities, TAFE and private providers. There were large employers and employer associations to advise students on employment. The students obtained a significant amount of information and were excitedly discussing this the rest of the day.
Don’t forget to check out the latest Careers Newsletter – there is much information in the newsletter that will assist your daughter.
Student News
Amber Buckland
In 2024 one of the highlights of attending OLM Burraneer is the flexibility and also opportunity to study subjects offered at other Colleges. Year 11 student Amber Buckland is a student at OLM Burraneer and has the vision and passion to one day become a Project Manager in the industry of VET Construction.
Amber decided to take up an ATAR pathway and one of her subject choices is Construction which is offered at De La Salle College Caringbah. She travels to De La Salle College Caringbah twice a fortnight and participates in practical classes at 7:30 am. Amber has been learning real world skills from the construction Industry.
Amber has been exceptional in attendance, her commitment to safety and her skills and attention to detail have been exemplary and evident in several carpentry projects, one even consisted of building and installing a kitchen for the senior boys of De La Salle College Caringbah.
In the past holidays Amber also completed one of two mandatory work placements in the Construction Industry. She attended a large scale Commercial Construction site with employer Multiplex and engaged in 35 hours of work that contributes to Amber studying construction.
Amber must be congratulated on her commitment to achieving her future employment goals and pathway.
Instructional Leader – Co-Curricular – Miss Danielle Polson
We celebrate the achievements and challenges of our sporting students and share their outcomes …..
NSW All Schools Swimming
Congratulations to Kiani Johnson (Year 9) who placed 8th in the 400m Freestyle at the NSW All Schools Swimming held at Homebush on 31 May.
Athletics Carnival
Our school Athletics Carnival was a fantastic success, filled with high energy competition and community spirit. The weather was perfect for students, parents, and staff to enjoy the outdoor events. From the speed on the track and excellence in the field events the carnival saw many new records set. Congratulations to all of our Age Champions:
12 Years: Kayla Hill & Veronica Rogers
13 Years: Felicity Barnes
14 Years: Allegra Little
15 Years: Jessica Mayer, Ellie Robertson, and Roma Taylor
16 Years: Charlotte Ollivier
17 Years: Dakota Strettles
School 100m Champion: Allegra Little
Congratulations to Frayne who were our House Champions
NSW CCC Football
Congratulations to Mia Grace Schembri who represented SCS at the NSW CCC Football Trial this week at Valentine Sports Park.
Cross Country
In rainy conditions, the OLM annual Cross Country Carnival was held. This year students nominated to compete in the event. Many students decided to take on the challenging course in Burraneer Park. Congratulations to the following students who were Age Champions:
12 Years: Veronica Rogers
13 Years: Felicity Barnes
14 Years: Layla White
15 Years: Jessica Mayer
16 Years: Charlotte Ollivier
As a result the following students represented OLM at Sydney Catholic Schools Cross Country Championships Felicity Barnes, Lauren Cuddihy, Charlie Doyle, Kara Emans, Kayla Hill, Ava Kome, Tenya Kotouc, Jessica Mayer, Meika McKinnon, Charli Moses, Georgia Pyper, Veronica Rogers, Mia Grace Schembri, Andie Smith, Montana Smith, Liesl Spinner, Olive Wanless, and Layla White.
The team was very successful. Congratulations to the girls on the following results:
1st 14 Years – Layla White
1st 12 Years – Veronica Rogers
2nd 14 Years – Liesl Spinner
4th 13 Years – Felicity Barnes
6th 13 Years – Charli Moses
NSW CCC Cross Country
Congratulations to Layla and Veronica will now represent NSW CCC Cross Country along with Charli Moses and Liesl Spinner at NSW All Schools.
Nikita Sullivan and Sarah Clarke represented OLMC for SCS Table Tennis Regional Competition last week and placed third in a very highly skilled group of competitors.
Mia You and Lauren Cuddihy also came 3rd in the Junior division.
Nikita Sullivan and Sarah ClarkeLauren Cuddihy and Mia You
Netball
Congratulations to Emma Pierce and Roma Taylor (Year 9) who were members of the Sutherland Shire Netball Association U/15 Representative Team who won the NSW State Title over the long weekend.
Bronze Duke of Edinburgh
Earlier this month, 39 students took part in the practice hike for the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award Adventurous Journey Component.
The girls hiked with their packs from Boronia Park in Hunters Hill along the Great North Walk to Lane Cove Discovery Park, where we set up camp for the night and cooked dinner on the burners. On Day 2 the girls completed another section of the Great North Walk in the Lane Cove National Park.
Our students believed it was a great experience. Well done to all students involved.
Creative and Performing Arts Faculty – Mrs Ciara Gabriele
Eisteddford
Congratulations to the College Vocal Ensemble who performed Inanay and Amazing Grace at the Sydney Catholic Schools Eisteddfod at Domremy Catholic College Five Dock recently.
The girls performed beautifully and received fabulous positive feedback.
Centenary Mass – St Aloysius Parish Cronulla
Welcome to Coolangatta House
OLMC Burraneer Enrolling Now
Local News – Year 9 Student wins SCS Portrait Prize
Congratulations to Veronica Lattouf on her Artistic success.
Child Studies Primary School VisitsGrowth and Development
Term 1 and 2
Child Studies Excursions
Child Studies Elective classes in Term 1 at OLM, cover a module called Family Interactions. In this unit of study, students investigate and experience the importance of positive relationships for the growth and development of children and how community resources, such as preschool, promote and support the wellbeing of children and families.
On the 10 April our Year 10 Child Studies students attended an excursion to Little Shepherd Preschool Kindergarten, Caringbah South. We are so grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Mrs Rebecca Gorman and her exceptional staff who gave OLM students an insight into their daily programs and the way their service promotes the growth and development and wellbeing of all individual children but also the valuable support given to associated families. Mrs Gorman, Director and Isabella, nominated Supervisor, spoke to our students about different pathways and fields of work that are available for those interested in pursuing a career related to childhood.
This excursion was a wonderful opportunity for our students who really enjoyed the experience and learnt a great deal through positive interactions and observations at Little Shepherd Preschool.
In Term 2 both OLM Child Studies classes are studying a module called The Diverse Needs of Children and have begun visits to St Francis de Sales on each Monday afternoon for Term 2.
The module “The Diverse Needs of Children” develops the student’s understanding of the diverse needs of children 0-8 years and identifies support and resources available to optimise their health and wellbeing.
Therefore, it will be extremely valuable for our students to observe the growth and development and interact with students at the Kindergarten – Year 1 stage. Students will consider strategies that are used to further develop factors such as those related to the physical, cognitive, emotional and social development of young children within a formal setting, school.
During our visits our students help the teachers by participating in activities designed to cater for a variety of learning needs such as knowledge and skills in reading, maths/numeracy, design, problem solving and sporting activities.
In Child Studies, Year 9 and 10 have had the opportunity over the past few weeks to go to St Francis Primary School and engage with year 1 and kindergarten students. They have been involved in helping the young students complete a range of activities, including reading, writing, mathematics and art. Child Studies currently have an assessment task focusing on their experience and outlining the range of skills the young students are developing through these activities.
So far, the OLM Child Studies classes are loving this experience. We look forward to our visits with St Francis de Sales each week.
