Principal’s Message

Welcome to our latest College newsletter. We continue to keep our Year 12 students in our prayers as they complete their final HSC and International Baccalaureate examinations.

Vale Geoff Laidler

The College community is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Geoff Laidler, a cherished and long-serving member of staff. Geoff dedicated 27 years to the HSIE department and served as Year Coordinator until he transitioned to retirement in 2023. Geoff was a wonderful colleague, friend, teacher and mentor. The Requiem Mass for Geoff will be held on Monday, 3 November at 12 pm at OLF Kingsgrove, where many former and current staff, students, alumnae and families will gather to farewell an inspirational educator. Please keep the Laidler family in your thoughts and prayers, especially his wife Pat and their son Christian, during this difficult time. Later in this newsletter, we have included a beautiful reflection written by Mrs Sandra Kasses.

Eternal Rest grant unto Geoff O Lord, Let perpetual light shine upon him, May he rest in peace, Amen.

Welcome to Fr Thu 

It is with great joy that we welcome Rev. Thu Nguyen as our new Parish Priest at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church Kingsgrove. Father Thu comes to us after faithfully leading the St Francis Xavier Parish, Lurnea, where he served his community for 12 and a half years. His warmth, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his parishioners are a true testament to his vocation. Father Thu’s faith-filled leadership and kind presence will undoubtedly bless our parish community. We warmly welcome him to Kingsgrove and look forward to his pastoral guidance in the years ahead.

Farewell to Amy Bosnich – Leader of Curriculum

Last Friday, we bid farewell to Amy Bosnich, our Leader of Curriculum. I would like to sincerely thank Amy on behalf of St Ursula’s for her outstanding service and leadership over the past seven years. Her contributions have made a lasting impact on our teaching and learning community. Amy is relocating permanently to Port Macquarie, and while we will miss her presence, we wish her every success and happiness in this next chapter. 

Ms Claire Moroney will be Acting Leader of Curriculum until the end of the year.

Feast Day of St Ursula’s

Last Tuesday, 21 October, marked the feast day of St Ursula. Although our College community celebrated this occasion earlier in Term 3 to ensure all students—including our Year 12 cohort—could participate, this moment still invites us to pause and reflect on the legacy behind the celebration.

St Ursula’s story, steeped in courage and faith, inspired a young Italian woman named Angela Merici. In 1535, Angela founded the Company of St Ursula in Brescia, dedicating her life to the education and spiritual formation of young women. Her vision was revolutionary for its time, and her commitment continues to shape the values and mission of Ursuline communities around the world.

To deepen this reflection, I’ve included insights from Sr Deirdre O’Sullivan osu, a former Pastoral Care Coordinator and teacher of English and Religious Education. Her words offer a personal and grounded perspective on how the spirit of St Ursula and Angela Merici continues to resonate within our College today.

Angela chose Ursula for the moral stance she took against what she saw as the destructive elements of her time. Also, her faith and prayerfulness, which came naturally to her and the belief in her possibility to effect change. A positive model of ‘Serviam’. She became an inspiration for 16th-century women in Europe. A cathedral is dedicated to her in Cologne.

We are grateful to our Ursuline Sisters for their devoted service to this College and to Ursuline communities across Australia and around the world.

Happy World Teachers’ Day

Today we celebrate World Teachers’ Day with gratitude and pride. On behalf of the entire College community, I extend heartfelt thanks to our teachers for their professionalism, passion, and unwavering dedication. Their tireless efforts inspire and empower our girls to strive for excellence every single day. A special thank you also goes to our Senior Student Leadership team for helping make this day truly memorable.

Ms Vivienne Awad will return to the College next week, and we look forward to hearing the inspiring stories and reflections from her Ursuline pilgrimage. 

It has been a great opportunity to be here for three weeks and once again experience the wonderful educational community of St Ursula’s. Whilst there have been many changes to the campus and staff across the years, the spirit of Angela and Serviam is tangible in our students and the staff, with relationships being at the heart of the community. I have loved every minute.

Thank you for your support, and I wish all our families many blessings.

Elizabeth Denny
Acting Principal

Vale – Geoff Laidler

It is with deep sadness and immense gratitude that we farewell our dear colleague and friend, Mr Geoffrey Laidler (Geoff), a man whose presence at St Ursula’s College was both enduring and profoundly impactful.

For 27 years, Geoff was a pillar of our staff, a quiet achiever whose impact was felt in every corner of the College. As a Modern History expert, Geoff brought depth of knowledge and passion to his teaching. His academic excellence was not just evident in the breadth of his historical understanding, but in the way he translated complex ideas into meaningful, engaging lessons. He held himself to the highest standards, always revising and always refining to get the best from each and every student. At the core of his teaching was the belief in the potential of every learner.

Geoff’s classroom was a place of intellectual rigour and genuine care. He taught with heart and his students responded in kind, with respect, with curiosity and equal passion. Geoff believed in the power of education to shape not just minds but character, and he lived that belief every day.

As a colleague, Geoff was thoughtful, generous and deeply committed. He never sought the spotlight but his quiet leadership and unwavering professionalism set an admirable tone that inspired. 

Of course, if you ever needed to find Geoff, you simply followed the trail of St Ursula’s coffee mugs scattered lovingly around the College, a quirky signature of a man who was always on the move, always thinking, always teaching.

Geoff was an integral part of our ‘Serviam’ community, not just because of the years he gave, but because of the way he gave them. With integrity. With humility. With service.

Farewell, Geoff. Your legacy lives on in every student you inspired, every colleague you supported, and every lesson that still echoes through our College.

Thank you for your wisdom, your warmth, and your unwavering commitment to the students and our College.

You will be deeply missed, and never forgotten.

Sandra Kasses
English Teacher

Gospel Reflection

This coming Sunday, we gather to mark All Souls’ Day, a sacred moment in our liturgical calendar when we remember and pray for all who have gone before us in faith. The Gospel from John reminds us of Christ’s promise:

“All that the Father gives me will come to me, and I will not reject anyone who comes to me… This is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I shall raise him on the last day.”

These words offer profound comfort. They assure us that no one is forgotten and that in Christ, death is not the end, it is the beginning of eternal life. On this day, we hold close the memory of loved ones, mentors, and saints whose lives have shaped our own. We entrust them to God’s mercy, confident that they now rest in His peace.

All Souls’ Day also invites us to reflect on our own journey. Are we living in a way that prepares us to meet Christ? Are we honouring the memory of the departed by living lives of compassion, justice, and hope?

As a mother, I hope my son learns that love endures beyond death, that faith is a light in every darkness, and that our lives are most meaningful when lived in service to others. I pray he grows to understand that holiness is found not only in grand gestures, but in everyday kindness, courage, and mercy.

Let us entrust all souls to the loving embrace of God, and renew our commitment to walk in the light of Christ – until we, too, are raised on the last day.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace.
Amen.

Antoinette Nader
Acting/Religious Education Co-ordinator

Youth Ministry News

On Monday 29 September, students from Years 9-12 attended the iSTAND Conference at OLF Peakhurst. This event gave students the opportunity to learn more about themselves, others and God through a variety of activities such as games, sport, prayer, reconciliation, music, Mass and talks from keynote speakers. This is what a Year 9 student had to say about their experience:

The iSTAND culture is one of the best things about these events. It’s so refreshing being in a community with people that share the love of Christ, just as he wanted us to do, and in such an engaging way as well. Everything from the new friends that you make to the people that run it are so lovely. My favourite part is the night session where we do adoration and prayer teams, you can really feel God’s presence. I would definitely recommend iSTAND for anyone wanting to find friends in a Christly foundation and anyone wanting a deeper relationship with Christ. 

Information regarding the next Conference has been sent to your daughters via Compass.

Australian Catholic Youth Festival – Melbourne 2025

On Friday evening, 14 students, Mrs Nader and I joined fellow staff and students from the Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) community at Mount Saint Joseph, Milperra. The gathering served as a vibrant lead-up to the 4th ACYF, set to take place in Melbourne from 30 November to 2 December.

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation as guest speakers unveiled the Festival program. Students connected with peers from other Sydney Catholic schools, who will be travelling together daily to and from the accommodation via shared bus, enjoying icebreaker activities, delicious food and lively music.

The night concluded on a reflective note with reconciliation and adoration, leaving everyone spiritually uplifted and eager for the journey ahead.

The Scaffolding Newsletter:  Bishop Tony Percy

Sydney’s newest Auxiliary Bishop, Bishop Tony, shares thoughts and reflections on Scripture and contemporary topics through his Substack newsletter. 

The most recent 200 word article, titled Hope, can be found here.

Nicole Katacos
Youth Ministry Coordinator

Second Beginning Teachers’ Retreat

On the 23 and 24 October, Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) hosted its fourth and final retreat this year for all teachers in their second year of employment with SCS. I had the opportunity to attend this retreat alongside a fellow colleague at St Ursula’s, Ms Katrina Zenere.

At the Mary Mackillop Spirituality Centre in Baulkham Hills, we underwent a meaningful two-day immersion that was designed to cultivate our shared vocation as SCS teachers. We participated in lengthy, interactive seminars on two notable theological topics – The Power of the Cross and The Significance of the Eucharist – which made us reflect on how the spiritual dimension and ethos of Roman Catholicism is being made prevalent in our classrooms and beyond. The significance of the Cross and Holy Eucharist were further emphasised through a celebration of Mass and the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. We were also granted time to consider the gifts and charisms that we possess and how they can be optimised in our work and broader life.

After an enlightening two days full of meaningful dialogue with colleagues in both the primary and secondary Catholic schools of Sydney, we returned home with insight and energy for the remainder of the school year.

Dion Bozikis
HSIE/RE Teacher

Ursuline graduate awarded Nobel Peace Prize

Maria Corina Machado was recently awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, but what you might not know is that this Venezuelan woman is an Ursuline alumni from Merici Academy in Venezuela. She is the first Ursuline graduate to win a Nobel Peace Prize.

The following video was made by another alumni student from her Venezuelan school and focuses on Maria Corina and her Serviam spirit:

• Instagram link
• Facebook link

For more information on her work that led to her being awarded the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize, you might be interested to read the following articles:

• ABC News
• The Nobel Prize
• Wikipedia

Year 12 Major Textiles Project

The Year 12 Major Textiles Project is worth 50% of the HSC mark. Students select a project from one of the five focus areas: apparel, non-apparel, furnishings, textile arts or costume. This enables students to explore an area of interest.

The project has two components: the supporting documentation (portfolio) and textile item/s.

The folio consists of four sections: Design inspiration, Visual design concept development, Project manufacture specification, Investigation, experimentation and evaluation. The folio is 24 pages (A4 or 12 pages (A3). Students use a commercial pattern which they modify or make their own. They manufacture and decorate their major project over 4 terms. This year we have a range of costume, apparel and furnishings.

I am very proud of what our students have achieved, using beautiful details and techniques.

Kate Rasmussen
TAS/Textiles Teacher

Reaching Gold!

Year 11 Red Frog Presentation

On Wednesday 15 October, Year 11 students took part in an engaging and informative presentation delivered by Red Frogs, as part of the ‘Party Safe’ program. This dynamic session aimed to educate and empower students to make informed decisions when navigating social events such as parties, after-parties and music festivals.

Throughout the presentation, students explored real-world scenarios and interactive activities designed to help them recognise potential risks and develop strategies to stay safe. The program covered a range of relevant topics, including alcohol, drugs and Australia’s drinking culture, as well as understanding standard drink measurements, laws surrounding substance use and the dangers of drink spiking. Students also discussed the impact of peer pressure and learned practical ways to look out for themselves and their friends in social settings.

A highlight of the session was the hands-on experience with ‘beer goggles’ which allowed students to safely observe the effects of alcohol impairment, and an eye-opening demonstration on the dangers of drink spiking. The program was both educational and enjoyable, leaving students better prepared to make confident and responsible choices in any party environment.

Brittany Neumann
Year 11 Co-ordinator

Student Reflection

Our session with Red Frogs Education was both eye-opening and empowering. Through engaging activities and honest conversations, we were encouraged to think critically about the choices we make, especially when it comes to partying, peer pressure and the risks of drugs and alcohol. The presenter didn’t just tell us to avoid illicit substances; they gave us practical tools and advice for staying safe, making informed decisions and supporting our friends. It was refreshing to hear that even if someone chooses to drink or experiment, there are safer ways to manage those situations without judgment. The Red Frogs lollies themselves were a fun reward for answering questions correctly but the real takeaway was that there is no safe drug. As we move into our adult lives, we must always stay vigilant, safe and smart even in scenarios where we think ‘it would never happen to me’ or ‘just this one time, I’ll experiment.’ 

Ava Zygouras and Olivia Holt
College Co-Captains

UTS STEM Discovery Day

On Tuesday, eighteen of our Year 10 and 11 students had the amazing opportunity to attend the UTS STEM Discovery Day.

Hosted across the UTS campus, students explored cutting-edge facilities and resources in the Science, Engineering and Information Technology faculties. From forensic labs to robotics rooms and cybersecurity hubs, they got a real taste of university life.

Students participated in hands-on workshops in areas such as Medical Science, Mechatronics, Games Development, and more, sparking curiosity and inspiring future pathways.

A huge thank you to UTS for welcoming us and creating such an engaging and immersive experience.

Amina Fisher
TAS Teacher, Pathways Coach & VET Coordinator

Amelie Tam 

I participated in ‘The Little Things’ (Med Science) and ‘Who did it?’ ( Forensic Science) workshops. In the medical science workshop, we explored the importance of microbiology in modern science by testing samples to reach a diagnosis and gram staining specimens to visualise microscopic bacteria. In the forensic science workshop, we were able to analyse a simulated crime scene and fingerprint dusting. This experience has helped me to learn about UTS courses and faculties which has expanded my opportunities after high school. 

Jessica Zhen

I participated in a medical science and forensic science exploration workshop. In the ‘Test Yourself’ medical science workshop, we explored both the respiratory and circulatory systems, looking at two case studies and testing yourself with equipment commonly used in medical science, using an ECG, blood pressure monitor, as well as a spirometer, which all measured various parts of the two systems. In the forensic science ‘Who Did It?’ workshop, we simulated a crime scene and analysed different blood splatters and dusted fingerprints. This valuable experience has shown me different pathways in UTS, allowing me to discover and consider the possible career paths for my future. 

Gabriela Miks

Attending UTS STEM Day gave me the chance to try forensic science, where I learnt about blood splatter and fingerprint analysis. I found this interesting but realised it is not for me. I also participated in a chemistry medicine synthesis workshop which I really enjoyed. I especially enjoyed the experiments to identify unknown substances using infrared spectroscopy. The day helped me realise that I’m interested in pursuing a future in chemistry. It also opened my mind to career opportunities in STEM that I hadn’t considered before. 

Anya Bolofer

I enjoyed both my workshops, especially the chemistry one as I really liked doing the lab work. The workshops opened my eyes to different course options such as Forensic Chemistry. I do think the Forensic workshop would have been more immersive if it was done in one of their crime rooms as it can provide insight to what this course really does. Overall, UTS STEM day was a really interesting and fun experience as it helped me think about alternative course options.

Phoebe Beaumont

I went to both the Test Yourself and Who Did It workshop. In the Test Yourself workshop we learnt about the circulatory and respiratory systems and how they play a vital role in our lives whereas in the Who Did It workshop we learnt how to analyse blood splatters and uncover finger print traces left on mugs. Both workshops were very enjoyable. One of the presenters in the Who Did It workshop mentioned she did a double degree in criminology and forensic science which are two areas I planned on choosing between and pursuing at University, however I now realise that I could pursue a double degree rather than picking just one which was something I hadn’t considered before. I will also be considering doing a double degree in other areas as I’ve learnt it could prove challenging to find work in this field. In addition to the workshops, the presenter mentioned some of the requirements and ATARs needed to get into certain courses within UTS which I found helpful. Overall, it was an enjoyable day that gave me insights into UTS and the courses they offer.

Year 7 visits the Chau Chak Wing Museum

Over two great days, Year 7 enjoyed visiting the Chau Chak Wing Museum at The University of Sydney. This Year 7 History excursion complemented their current unit of study on Ancient Egypt.

Students are currently learning about the defining characteristics and legacies of Ancient Egypt including the physical features of Ancient Egyptians and how they influenced their civilisation. The University of Sydney excursion was the perfect opportunity to understand and experience the antiquities of Ancient Egypt.

The Mummy Room of the Museum contains the coffins and mummified remains of four people who lived in Egypt between 1200 BC and 100 AD. Their names are Meruah, Padiashaikhet, Horus and Mer-Neith-it-es. CT technology has allowed us to learn about their daily lives, including nutrition, health and disease.

Students were delighted to visit such an impressive museum guided by the museum’s expert tour guides. It is a truly a unique museum, in the Southern Hemisphere, with its vast collections and exhibitions.
Finally, our Year 7 students should be commended because they were perfect representatives for our College with their mature behaviour in the museum and their respect shown towards the guides.

Joe Russo
HSIE Coordinator

Representative Sport Results

MyStrengths

MyStrengths is a strengths based program that we have been running at the College with both our staff and students. They have a background in positive psychology and positive wellbeing, and have become an integral part of our Pastoral Care program. 

St Ursula’s has a subscription to the full MyStrengths Parenting package. This is now active for all members of our community, both parents and staff.

MyStrengths parents provide short parenting courses, workshops and resources which provide easy practical steps drawing on a strength-based approach.

To access this fabulous resource simply go to:http://stursulas.mystrengths.com.au/

We encourage you to go online and explore.

Anne Sukkar
Leader of Wellbeing

Archbishop Fisher’s Newsletter

Please click here to view the latest newsletter from Archbishop Anthony Fisher.

Follow us on socials

Members of the school community are invited to follow St Ursula’s on Facebook and on Instagram. If you know anyone considering high schools for their daughter, you may also like to share our accounts with them. 

Our social media platforms feature photos and videos of our students’ many achievements and learning experiences, latest events and other exciting news from around the school.

Our handle on both Facebook and Instagram is @stursulascollegekingsgrove