Newsletter 3 2026 - 2 Apr 2026
Principal’s Message

Principal’s Message

During Palm Sunday Mass last week, Pope Leo focussed on the many Christians living and suffering in countries experiencing conflict and war. He rejected the idea that God and religion justifies war, instead reminding us that God and Jesus are the Father and Son of Peace. Many of our families have relatives living in the Middle East and other parts of the world and are very worried for their safety and welfare.  It is devastating to see the destruction in countries that represent their ancestry. Many family trips have had to be cancelled and it will be sometime before families can be reunited again. During this Holy Week, let us continue to pray for peace. The death and resurrection of Jesus is a reminder of God’s love for all humanity. It is a time of hope and renewal and we pray our world leaders can find it in their hearts to see the face of Christ in the people they are at war with and to end all wars.

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Executive Director’s Awards for Excellence and Teaching Scholarship

Last Tuesday night, SCS Executive Director, Mrs Danielle Cronin, presented awards to our students of excellence from the 2025 graduating class at a special awards evening held at Sydney Town Hall. 

  • Twelve students were presented with a First in Course in SCS across a range of subjects. 
  • Three students were awarded a Future Teachers Scholarship

Congratulations to these amazing young women for their dedication, resilience and commitment to their studies.

SCS Step Up into Teaching Sponsorship Programme

Sydney Catholic Schools is proud to sponsor 50 Year 12 students to complete the Step Up Into Teaching Programme through ACU.

This concurrent enrolment and early entry scheme allows aspiring teachers to complete two first year university units while still in Year 12. Successful completion guarantees entry into their chosen Teaching degree at ACU, with credit applied for the completed units. 

I am delighted to announce that the following Year 12 students have been selected and have already completed their first university level unit.

  • Mary-Anne Elazzi
  • Anabel McNamara
  • Brianna Merlino
  • Sienna Pagaimo

We congratulate these students. Our teaching profession is in very good hands.

Commissioning Mass for new teachers at St Mary’s Cathedral

Last Thursday night, Sydney Catholic Schools held a Mass to commission staff new to Sydney Catholic Schools and staff new to the role of Principal, Assistant Principal and Religious Education Co-ordinator. Celebrated by Archbishop Anthony Fisher, the Mass was a beautiful expression of faith, vocation and new beginnings.

Religious Education Coordinator

We warmly congratulate Mrs Antoinette Nader who has been appointed as the substantive Religious Education Coordinator at the College. 

This position is an SCS appointment and the interviews take place with a panel that includes the Parish Priest, Director of Mission and Identity, Mr Anthony Cleary and a member of his team, as well as myself. Antoinette’s passion for Faith Formation and Mission as well as for our College is evident and our community benefits from her leadership. 

Vale Sr Marjorie Carroll

It is with profound sadness that I inform our College community of the passing of Sister Marjorie Carroll on Saturday 21st March 2026. 

Sister Marjorie, was an Ursuline sister and taught at St Ursula’s for many years in the 1960’s and 1970’s as well as from 1883 to 1985. More information about her life and service appears later in this newsletter.

Basketball Grand Finalists

I was delighted to see our students competing in the Basketball Grand Finals last week. All three teams, Junior, Intermediate and Senior made it through to the Grand Finals with our Senior Team winning their match. 

Our students represented the College beautifully and we are incredibly proud of them. Thank you to our coaches Mrs Peterson, Mrs Whitfield and Mr Russo.

Mother Daughter Movie Night Wed May 20

This much loved event, organised by our St Ursula’s Parent Association, is always a highlight for our Mother’s and daughters. Please keep this date free. 

Movie: The Devil wears Parda 2
Location: Event Cinemas, Hurstville
Date: Wednesday, 2 May 2026
Time: Doors open 6.30pm, Movie starts at 7.00pm

Details for purchasing tickets will be released soon via Try bookings. I look forward to seeing you at this event.

As we prepare for a two week holiday period, I hope everyone can take some personal time to rest and to enjoy the small things that bring joy into our lives. I especially want to acknowledge our senior students, who have worked incredibly hard throughout their recent assessment blocks. This time of rest is well deserved.

We also continue to hold in our prayers the members of our community who have experienced family loss, suffering and hardship. May peace, compassion, and understanding guide us all.

I wish every family a safe, restful, and blessed Easter break. I look forward to seeing our students on Tuesday 21st April.

Many blessings to you all.

Regards,

Vivienne Awad
Principal

 

Gospel Reflection

Gospel Reflection

On Easter morning, the Gospel tells us that the women came to the tomb expecting to find death, yet they discovered that the stone had been rolled away. What they feared was the end became a new beginning. The message they received was simple and life‑changing: “He is not here; He has risen.”  

The Resurrection reveals that God’s love is stronger than darkness and that hope can rise even in the most fragile places. It is the moment when Christ steps into fear and speaks the words the world longs to hear: “Peace be with you.”

This message carries deep meaning today.

For many, the Middle East is not just a place on a map. It is the smell of olive groves warmed by the sun. It is the sweetness of orange trees in spring. It is the sound of prayer rising from homes and villages. It is the memory of grandparents’ stories, family gatherings, and traditions passed down through generations. It is a land where people have lived side by side for thousands of years—often in harmony, sometimes in tension, always with deep connection to the soil beneath their feet.

When conflict erupts in such a place, the pain is felt far beyond its borders. Families across the world grieve. Communities feel the weight of loss. The human family is wounded. Into this reality, Jesus speaks a peace that is steady and courageous. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” His peace is not fragile. It does not depend on perfect circumstances. It is a peace that strengthens the heart and invites trust even when the world feels uncertain.

When we hold the Easter readings together, a path forward emerges. Peace in the Middle East—and in every place of conflict—grows through compassion, patience, forgiveness, and love. It grows when people see one another not as enemies but as neighbours. It grows when we remember that the land we call holy is shared by many, and that every person who walks upon it is created in the image of God.

The women at the tomb were the first to witness the Resurrection, and they were the first to carry its message into a hurting world. Their courage invites us to do the same. Easter calls us to be people who roll away stones—stones of prejudice, indifference and fear—so that hope can rise again.

May the light of the Resurrection strengthen our desire for peace and guide us to be instruments of healing in a world that longs for it.

Antoinette Nader
Religious Education Coordinator
Easter Services at your local Parish

Easter Services at your local Parish

OUR LADY OF FATIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH KINGSGROVE

Mass Times:

  • Holy Thursday: 7pm
  • Good Friday: 10am Stations of the Cross | 3pm The Passion of the Lord
  • Holy Saturday: 9am Ritual of reconciliation | 7pm Easter Vigil Mass and RCIA Baptism
  • Easter Sunday: 8:30am, 10am | No evening Mass
  • Sunday 12 April: 3pm Divine Mercy Mass
St DECLAN’S PENSURST
  • Holy Thursday 2 April Mass of the Lord’s Supper – 7.30pm (No 9.15am Mass or Adoration)
  • Good Friday 3 April
    – Stations of the Cross – 10.00am
    – The Celebration of the Lord’s Passion – 3.00pm
  • Holy Saturday 4 April Easter Vigil – 7.00pm (No Adoration, morning prayer or Mass on Saturday morning, and no Reconciliation)
  • Easter Sunday Masses 5 April 7.00am, 9.00am, 11.00am, 5.00pm
  • Easter Monday 6 April Morning Mass at 9.15am (not 6.45am)

Reconciliation During Lent

  • Saturdays 5.00 – 5.45pm
  • Additionally: Sunday 29 March, 6.00 – 7.30pm
  • Monday 30 March, 7.30 – 9.00pm
  • Tuesday 31 March, 7.30 – 9.00pm
ST JOSEPH’S OATLEY
  • Holy Thursday 2 April Mass of the Lord’s Supper – 7.30pm (No Midday Mass)
  • Good Friday 3 April
    – Stations of the Cross – 10.00am
    – The Celebration of the Lord’s Passion – 3.00pm
  • Holy Saturday 4 April Easter Vigil – 7.00pm (No Reconciliation)
  • Easter Sunday Masses 5 April 8.00am and 10.00am
  • Easter Monday 6 April No Mass on Monday 6 April.

Reconciliation During Lent

  • Saturdays 4.00 – 4.45pm
  • Tuesdays and Thursdays 7.30 – 8.00pm
  • (during Adoration) every week
  • Additionally: Sunday 29 March, 6.00 – 7.30pm
  • Monday 30 March, 7.30 – 9.00pm
  • Tuesday 31 March, 7.30 – 9.00pm
OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH EARLWOOD
  • Monday 30 March – 9.30am Mass
  • Wed 1 April – 9am Mass, 9.30am Reconciliations
  • Holy Thursday 2 April – The Lord’s Supper – 7.00pm, Church will remain open till 11.00pm
  • Good Friday 3 April
    – Stations of the Cross 10.00am, followed by Reconciliations
    – Passion of the Lord 3.00pm, followed by Reconciliations
    – Via Crucis – (English & Italian) Grotto 7.00pm
  • Easter Vigil Saturday 4 April – 7.15pm (No Reconciliations)
  • Easter Sunday 5 April – 9.30am – 10.45am Italian
ST. BERNADETTE’S CHURCH CLEMTON PARK
  • Tuesday 31 March – 6.00pm Reconciliations, 6.30pm Mass
  • Holy Thursday 2 April – The Lord’s Supper 6.30pm
  • Good Friday 3 April – Stations of the Cross 10.00am Passion of the Lord 3.00pm NO Easter Vigil 4th April at St. Bernadette’s
  • Easter Sunday 5 April – 8.00am
Youth Ministry News

Youth Ministry News

The season of Easter is the most significant time in the Christian calendar, inviting us to reflect deeply on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a time of hope and renewal, reminding us that through His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, Jesus showed the depth of God’s love for humanity. His resurrection is a powerful sign that love is stronger than sin and death, and it calls each of us to live with faith, gratitude, and compassion. As a college community, Easter encourages us to pause, reflect, and grow in our understanding of what it means to live out the Gospel in our daily lives.

During the Easter break, we have a wonderful opportunity to spend meaningful time with our families, whether through attending Mass together, sharing meals, or simply being present to one another. It can also be a time for acts of kindness, prayer, and reflection—small but powerful ways to live out the message of Easter. As we step away from the busyness of school, may we take time to reconnect with what truly matters. I wish all members of our College community a safe, restful, and blessed Easter.

Nicole Katacos
Youth Ministry Coordinator
Girls’ Night In – A Wonderful Evening of Community, Creativity and Giving

Girls’ Night In – A Wonderful Evening of Community, Creativity and Giving

The College community came together on Thursday 19 March for our much‑anticipated Annual Girls’ Night In, and what a memorable evening it was. After a rainy afternoon, we were blessed with fine weather, allowing the event to go ahead smoothly and creating a vibrant atmosphere across the College grounds.

The night was a tremendous success, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Senior Student Leadership Team, Year 10 Commerce students, and the wider student community. Together, they hosted an impressive 46 market stalls, showcasing creativity, entrepreneurial skill, and a strong commitment to service.

Stalls offered a wide variety of popular food options, including hot favourites such as souvlaki, smash burgers, and nachos, alongside an irresistible selection of sweet treats, from loaded brownies and donuts to pastries and homemade cookies. Students also demonstrated their creativity through a range of craft stalls featuring handmade crochet items and jewellery. The thrift stall was a standout success, highlighting students’ strong sense of sustainability and innovative business thinking.

Students and guests also enjoyed a variety of entertainment throughout the evening, with activities such as karaoke, lucky dip scavenger hunts, ball toss games, and student busking adding to the fun and lively atmosphere. It was wonderful to see students and their families connecting, laughing, and enjoying the event together.

Most importantly, Girls’ Night In raised over $22,000 for Cancer Council NSW, an extraordinary achievement that reflects the generosity, dedication, and spirit of service within our College.

Thank you to all students, staff, and families who supported this special event and helped make such a meaningful difference.

Danielle McManus
Leader of Wellbeing

We extend our thanks to the many businesses that sponsored and contributed to our Girls’ Night In:

Coles, Clemton Park
Coles, Earlwood
Gottis Swedish Candy Co
Lulu’s Bakery
Phil’s Meats and Deli
Souvlaki Bar, Cronulla
Souvlaki Boys, Marickville
ST Asian Grocery, Kingsgrove
Woolworths, Hurstville
Woolworths, Kingsgrove


 

 

 

Students Awarded at the ED Awards for Excellence

Students Awarded at the ED Awards for Excellence

Sydney Catholic Schools hosted the Executive Director’s Awards for Excellence in HSC and VET, for 2025, at the Sydney Town Hall.

Congratulations to the following students who were formally recognised and presented with awards by Mrs Danielle Cronin for their outstanding achievements.

Name
Award
Maria Busuttil First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Textiles & Design
Jessica Carlisle First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – History Extension
Jacinta Drumond 2026 Future Teacher Scholars
Elyana Fadel First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Legal Studies
Bianca Fortunato First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Engineering Studies
Nikoletta Kalabalikis First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Modern Greek Beginners
Veronica Karam

First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Investigating Science
2026 Future Teacher Scholars

Michaela Khoury 2026 Future Teacher Scholars
Marina Koumoulas First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Legal Studies
First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Studies of Religion 1
Theodora Liangas First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Mathematics Advanced
Stephanie Paino First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – English Extension 1
First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Studies of Religion 1
Alannah Skurray First in Course, Sydney Catholic Schools – Textiles & Design
Emily Tarrant 2026 Future Teacher scholars
 
ACU Step-Up Program

ACU Step-Up Program

Year 12 students, Brianna Merlino, Mary-Anne El Azzi, Annabelle Mcnamara and Sienna Pagaimo recently graduated from the Australian Catholic University’s Step-Up Into Teaching Program. Brianna reflects on her experience.


Over the course of two school holiday blocks in Years 11 and 12, I had the opportunity to take part in the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Step-Up Program, completing two first-year university subjects while still at school. It was an incredibly rewarding experience that gave me a real insight into university life and expectations. As one of 161 students selected for the program, I valued the opportunity even more and attending with three other girls from St Ursula’s provided a supportive link to home while engaging in University.

Throughout the program, I developed important academic skills, particularly in university level writing, referencing and critical thinking. I grew more confident in my ability to meet expectations with the guidance and support of the academics on site obtaining valuable skills to further my academic future. One of the most valuable parts of the experience was spending time on campus and learning how university systems operate. It made the idea of starting university in 2027 feel much less overwhelming and more achievable. I now feel more prepared for the transition, both academically and personally.

Another highlight was connecting with like-minded students from different archdioceses and backgrounds. Sharing the experience with others who were equally motivated and focused made the journey more enjoyable and inspiring. Although the program required commitment and sacrifice during school holidays, it has been worth it. It has not only given me a head start on my future studies but also strengthened my ambition to pursue a career in teaching and inspire the next generation.

Overall, the ACU Step-Up Program has been a stepping stone in my journey, helping me grow in confidence, capability and direction for the future.

Brianna Merlino
Year 12
 
Investigating Science at Taronga Zoo

Investigating Science at Taronga Zoo

The Preliminary Course for Year 11 Investigating Science (ISCI) required students to complete Depth Studies as part of the syllabus. This was brought to life through an engaging excursion to Taronga Zoo. Throughout the day, students learnt directly from scientists and gained a deeper appreciation for the role of observation in scientific work. They conducted both qualitative and quantitative observations of the animals in Taronga’s care, highlighted by an up‑close and personal seal show that offered a captivating look at animal behaviour. The excursion wrapped up with a scenic ferry ride across Sydney Harbour, providing a memorable end to a rich and rewarding scientific experience.
 
Linda Steel
Science Teacher

Last Tuesday, our Year 11 ISCI class had the exciting opportunity to visit Taronga Zoo as part of our learning about observing animal behaviour. It was a valuable and enjoyable learning experience that helped bring our studies to life in a real world setting as we prepare for our next assessment task. 

Throughout the day, we were able to explore the zoo and observe the wide variety of animals and their habitats that the zoo has to offer. Watching how the animals interact with each other and their environments gave us a deeper understanding of behavioural patterns that we have begun to learn in class. 

We also got to attend the interactive shows where we were able to see the animals up close and learn more about their unique traits, behaviours and the training processes which the animals undergo at the zoo in order to prepare for those experiences. We also sat in on an informative slideshow presentation presented by the zookeepers at Taronga, who shared their knowledge and experiences working with the animals. This gave us an insight into how animal behaviour is monitored and cared for within the zoo setting. 

Overall, the excursion was both educational and enjoyable. It allowed us to apply our learning in a meaningful way and sparked a greater appreciation for wildlife and the processes and care that is taken into looking after the animals and their conservation. It was a memorable experience that will be used in future studies. 

Ciara Ancevski
Year 11 
Year 10 Reflection Day

Year 10 Reflection Day

Our Year 10 Reflection Day with Catholic Mission and Vinnies gave us the chance to step back from our usual routine and think about the kind of people we want to become. Hearing stories from Catholic Mission helped us understand how compassion and justice can be lived out in real, practical ways. Vinnies also opened our eyes to the reality of poverty and homelessness in our own communities, reminding us that these issues aren’t distant — they affect people we may walk past every day.

What made the day meaningful was the way it encouraged us to look inward as well as outward. Instead of just learning about social justice, we were invited to consider how our choices and actions can contribute to a more caring and fair world. Many of us walked away feeling more aware, more grateful, and more motivated to make a difference, even in small ways that can have a big impact over time.

Year 10 Students

 

TexStyle: practical skills for students

TexStyle: practical skills for students

Year 10 and Year 11 Textiles students had the opportunity to view the ‘TexStyle Exhibition” which showcased the outstanding 2025 HSC Textile Designs, at the Embroiderers Guild located in Concord West.
The students were very impressed with the techniques and skills shown in the 40 or so items on display. Year 11 were able to spend the day viewing the samples, attending a seminar on how to complete their HSC portfolio and participating in very enjoyable break in between where we practiced creative embroidery stitches on felt designs.

Kate Hoegh-Rasmussen
Textiles Teacher

It was a very enjoyable excursion to go on. Some of us went to the TexStyle Exhibition last year, only for the exhibition, and it was fun to revisit. This time at TexStyle, we learnt about what is included in our final projects and what is expected of us. We learnt about how to construct our portfolios, how to embroider and spoke to some employees about what major work would suit us best. Overall, such an amazing excursion and experience. 

Lara Flamminio
Year 11
Changing Places in Geography

Changing Places in Geography

On Friday 20 March, Year 9 enjoyed a wonderful excursion to Pyrmont and Barangaroo to complement their current unit of study of Changing Places in Geography.

Students have just learnt about the nature of urbanisation, including issues of urban planning and development. The Geography excursion was the perfect opportunity to understand the changes in these parts of our city first hand.

The focus of the excursion was on the urban dynamics of change, including urban decline and urban renewal, using Barangaroo (Millers Point) and Jacksons Landing (Pyrmont) to emphasise these aspects of our city. 

Students were able to look at the patterns in population movements and the increasing urbanisation of Sydney. Of particular focus was the increased concentration of populations within the inner-city areas of Sydney. Students examined liveable and sustainable urban places, with a special emphasis on the new developments of both Barangaroo and Pyrmont.

Key aspects of the excursion were how urbanisation impacts environments and places, and how environmental change in urban places can also enhance sustainability through sustainable development.

Our Year 9 students were well behaved and overwhelmingly positive about the experience, including the ferry ride from Circular Quay to Barangaroo and the walk through the historic precinct of Pyrmont with its ever changing architecture which were highlights of the day.

 Joe Russo
HSIE Coordinator

 

Exploring animals and their habitats at Symbio

Exploring animals and their habitats at Symbio

Our Year 8 scientists recently traded the labs for the enclosures of Symbio Wildlife Park, turning the bush into their classroom for the day. Guided by Rangers, our students got up close and personal with pythons, skinks, blue tongue lizards and baby crocodiles during the initial presentation. This helped the students connect the dots between an animal’s specific features and its ability to endure the Australian climate, making the science feel much more real life. The classes then went off with their specific ranger to go for a Native Animals Walk or Exotic Animals walk, whilst learning about structural, behavioural and physiological adaptations. 

On the Native Animal Walk, students had the opportunity to interact closely with local wildlife, including Koalas, Eastern Grey Kangaroos, and Swamp Wallabies. They also explored the Tasmanian Devil enclosure and reptile house. Year 8 students gained significant insight into Symbio’s participation in ‘Breed to Release’ programs, specifically focusing on two endangered native Australian animals: the Green and Golden Bell Frog and the Bellinger River Snapping Turtle.

Overall this excursion was a great day of learning which left the students with a far deeper appreciation for biological diversity of our native ecosystems.

Joshua Cutrupi
Science Coordinator

Two Year 8 students reflect on their experience at Symbio:

The excursion to Symbio was able to deepen our learning of animals and their adaptations. It was a very eye opening experience, learning and seeing how our own native animals learnt to survive over the  generations. We got to see many animals and even pet some of them, including the red panda, kangaroos, penguins, tasmanian devils, koalas, and a whole lot more reptiles and amphibians. We learnt about how different animals live in different habitats and climates, and what adaptations they developed over generations to suit their living conditions. For example, reptiles have scaly skin to keep moisture in hot and dry climates, and baby koalas eat their mother’s poop because it has a lower concentration of toxicity than normal eucalyptus leaves. Overall, it was a very fun and informative experience and I really enjoyed learning about these animals!

Chelsea Serrano
Year 8

At the Year 8 Science excursion to Symbio Wildlife Park, we were able to immerse ourselves in the native Australian wildlife, and learn about their adaptations for survival. We were able to touch various animals, including native reptiles and kangaroos. We were led by various tour guides who taught us about the different animals we were able to observe and the programs that the wildlife park participates in to ensure the survival of endangered species. Overall, it was a unique experience that deepened our understanding of native animals and their habitats. 

Amelia Faddoul 
Year 8
Walk on Country

Walk on Country

Our Indigenous students joined Josh and Trent from Natcha Cultural Tours for a walk on Dharawal Country at the Royal National Park, Audley.

We were provided access to hidden gems in the bushland in Maianbar where two giant engravings of whales told the story of male initiation in the form of a father whale with horizontal markings and a son whale following behind. These ancient engravings in the rock platform would have been months or years in the making and we were all fascinated by the messages they provided.

After a smoking ceremony and a time of Dadirri (deep inner listening and quiet, still awareness), students were invited to share their plans for the future. Our guides reinforced the responsibility they have to carry on their culture and share the knowledge they learn with others. We were then led to a further rock engraving site of a shark with legs! We puzzled over the possibilities and pondered the deep mysteries of Australia’s past flora and fauna.

When we returned to Audley we were surprised to be greeted by a goanna on our pathway which was more than a metre long! This is the totem for the Wiradjuri mob and Trent reminded the students that not only were they not allowed to hunt or eat their totem, but they had to look after the environment for their totem as well. We were then privileged to enter an ancient cave where we saw rock paintings of human hands on the ceiling! It was also breathtaking to see the oyster shells left behind as proof of the history of Gondwanaland. 

We hope you enjoy reading the following student reflections of this amazing day.

Karen Horder
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Support Teacher

After listening to the life stories of Trent and Josh, this excursion reinforced my goal to work
as a GP for Aboriginal communities.
Isabella.


Today gave me motivation as an Aboriginal woman and we saw some really beautiful cultural sites
that helped my connection to country.
Maya


Today I loved how we saw some amazing sites across the ocean.
Amelia 


I had a lot of fun doing the bush walking and seeing the whale art.
Violet


I loved talking to the guides about their experiences on country and in life.
True


I loved learning about the Aboriginal culture and getting the opportunity to go on a walk on country.
Serenity 


I loved how we got to enjoy learning about their experiences and how we learn about the culture
as well as the sculptures and engravings.
Illijana


I loved learning about my culture and what it means to be Aboriginal because at my old school I never got to learn about my culture and what it means to be Aboriginal so it means a lot to me. Especially how we got to see all these engravings like the shark and how we got to learn who is most important in Aboriginal communities – how the elders and children are together in first place and then the women come second and the men come last and it was a very fun experience.
Mia

 

Celebrating Outstanding Public Speaking

Celebrating Outstanding Public Speaking

On Monday 23 March 2026, two of our senior students, Bianca Fortunato and Yvonne Pearce, represented our school with distinction at the CSDA Senior Public Speaking Heats, held at Santa Sabina College, Strathfield.

Competing in a demanding field of talented speakers from across the region, both students delivered high‑order, sophisticated speeches that showcased their maturity, insight and command of persuasive language.

  • Yvonne Pearce spoke with clarity and conviction on the topic “The Voice of Reason.”

  • Bianca Fortunato delivered a compelling and imaginative response to “Modern Day Bushrangers.”

Although neither progressed to the final round, their performances were exceptional and demonstrated the courage, preparation and intellectual rigour that define our senior competitors. We are immensely proud of their achievements and the professionalism they brought to the competition.

A heartfelt thank you to Mrs Helen McCarthy, who generously attended and supported our students on the evening. Her guidance and encouragement continue to strengthen our public speaking program.

Congratulations, Bianca and Yvonne — an outstanding effort and a wonderful representation of our school community.

Sandra Kasses
English Teacher
 
 
Mock Trial

Mock Trial

Well done to the Mock Trial team who won the first round of the Mock Trial competition against Sylvania High School this week.

St Ursula’s won 277 – 243

After having visited Frederick Jordan Chambers in the city to get some expert legal advice from a barrister, the team was very well prepared. In a civil matter as plaintiff, the team submitted that a large sum of money was a loan rather than a gift. Both sides were very strong in all areas of advocacy.

Special mention to: Yvonne Pearce and Victoria Pandis (barristers); Zoe De Sousa (solicitor); Tyra Tarrant and Alyssa Joukhador (witnesses) and Logno Halsona (Magistrate’s Clerk)

Congratulations, girls!

Steven Baker
HSIE/RE Teacher

 

Vale: Sr Marjorie Carroll osu

Vale: Sr Marjorie Carroll osu

Sr Marjorie Carroll osu, known to many of her ex-students from the early years of St Ursula’s Kingsgrove as Sr Gabriel, died peacefully last Saturday 21 March. She was just one month short of her 90th birthday.

Marj held very fond memories of her life and work at St Ursula’s College. As a young sister she taught many students during the late 1960s and early 1970s. She was a very gifted musician and
contributed much to the cultural life of the College. Marj returned to the Ursuline community at Kingsgrove during the 1980s and taught again at St Ursula’s.

In her later years she embraced creation centred spirituality which harmonised with her deep love of music. She lived in the Parish of Hoxton Park, assisting young people in a range of ways but most especially through her pastoral care, her musical knowledge and talent.

We, the Ursuline sisters, are grateful for having shared in Marj’s life through many decades and know that we are all the richer for having been touched by her unique freedom and beauty.

Patty Andrew osu
SCS Secondary Swimming Championships

SCS Secondary Swimming Championships

On Monday, 23 March, the following students were selected to represent St Ursula’s College in the SCS Swimming Championships: Isabella Esposito, Charlotte Saliba, Amelia Tang, Chiara Ruggero, Emilia Helou, Lucy Makatoa, Gemma Makatoa, Emma Ruggero, Grace Haskins, Amber Herlain, and Sophia Da Silva. 

Our students raced exceptionally well, with three students progressing to the NSWCCC Championships to be held on the 1-2 April. Congratulations Isabella Esposito, Charlotte Saliba and Amelia Tang.

Results 

Students excelled in both individual and team events. The St Ursula’s junior and intermediate freestyle relays both delivered impressive performances only narrowly missing the podium. 

4th Place – Girls 12-14 Years 4x50m Freestyle – Charlotte Saliba, Emma Ruggero, Lucy Makatoa, Gemma Makatoa
4th Place – Girls 15-15 Years 4x50m Freestyle – Isabella Esposito, Chiara Ruggero, Emilia Helou, Grace Haskins

Isabella Esposito had an exceptional meet, securing 5 gold medals and placing 3rd in the 16 years age champion pointscore! Isabella also set a new SCS Championship record in the Girls 16 Years 200m Freestyle. An incredible effort! 
1st Place – Girls 16 Years 200m Freestyle (NEW SCS CHAMPIONSHIP RECORD)
1st Place – Girls 16 Years 100m Freestyle
1st Place – Girls 16 Years 100m Butterfly
1st Place – Girls 16 Years 50m Freestyle 
1st Place – Girls 16 Years 50m Butterfly

Charlotte Saliba also had a stand out meet and placed 3rd overall in the 12-13 years age champion pointscore! Charlotte achieved multiple Personal Bests on the night with some very fast swims. 
1st Place – Girls 12-13 Years 100m Freestyle
1st Place – Girls 12-13 Years 50m Freestyle 
2nd Place – Girls 12-13 Years 50m Backstroke
4th Place –  Girls 12-13 Years 100m Breastroke
4th Place –  Girls 12-13 Years 50m Butterfly
8th Place –  Girls 12-14 Years 200 IM

Amelia Tang impressed in her events, earning 3 medals and placing 3rd in the 12-15 years MC age champion pointscore!
1st Place – Girls 12-15 Years 50m Butterfly MC
1st Place – Girls 12-15 Years 50m Backstroke MC
2nd Place – Girls 12-15 Years 50m Freestyle MC

Chiara Ruggero 
4th Place – Girls 16 Years 100m Butterfly 
5th Place – Girls 16 Years 50m Freestyle 

Sophia Da Silva 
7th Place – Girls 12-13 Years 100m Backstroke

Amber Herlain 
10th Place – Girls 12-14 Years 200 IM

Emilia Helou
12th Place – Girls 15 Years 50m Freestyle 

These incredible results reflect the dedication and hard work of our swimmers. We are immensely proud of each competitor and look forward to seeing Isabella, Charlotte and Amelia shine at the upcoming NSWCC championships. 

Best of luck to our athletes!

Samantha Murray
PDHPE Teacher/ IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science Teacher

 

 

Follow us on Social Media

Follow us on Social Media

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