Principal’s Message

Dear St Ursula’s community

Welcome back to Term 2. The term began with beloved community celebrations such as Girls Night In and Mother’s Day Mass and Breakfast. We look forward to our wonderful College musical, Roald Dahl’s Matilda JR! This term promises to be inspiring, creative and engaging for all.

🕊️ In Memoriam: Pope Francis (1936–2025)

It is with profound sadness that we mark the passing of Pope Francis on 21 April 2025. As the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church, his papacy was deeply shaped by the principles of St Ignatius of Loyola, particularly the Ignatian spirit of discernment. 

A Legacy of Faith and Justice

Pope Francis will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to compassion, humility, and service. His ability to listen deeply, reflect thoughtfully, and act decisively left a lasting imprint on the global Catholic community. Through his leadership, he championed:

• A “Church of the poor”, urging Catholics to serve the marginalised and vulnerable.
• Environmental stewardship, most notably through his encyclical Laudato Si’, which called for moral responsibility in addressing climate change.
• Interfaith dialogue, fostering peace and mutual understanding among diverse religious communities.

A Papacy That Redefined the Church

Pope Francis redefined the role of the Church in the modern world—making it more inclusive, accessible, and engaged. His leadership was not only pastoral but prophetic, calling the faithful to live out the Gospel through action, justice, and mercy.

As we reflect on his remarkable papacy, we give thanks for his enduring wisdom and the path he has paved for future generations. May his legacy continue to inspire a Church that listens, discerns, and serves with love.

Pope Leo XIV

We have warmly welcomed our new leader of the Catholic Church with the appointment of Pope Leo XIV as the 267th pontiff. His election marks a significant moment in history, as he becomes the first American-born pope. His choice of the name Leo XIV pays homage to Pope Leo XIII, a leader renowned for his contributions to Catholic social teaching and his advocacy for workers’ rights.

In his first address as Pope, Leo XIV emphasized the importance of humility in leadership, the responsibility of spreading Christianity, and the need for unity and peace in a divided world. As Pope Leo XIV embarks on his papacy, his leadership is anticipated to bring renewed focus on faith, unity, and service to communities worldwide. His deep understanding of global cultures, his commitment to justice, and his pastoral experience position him as a bridge-builder in a time of change. We keep Pope Leo, our Good Shepherd in our prayers as he guides and sustains our Church.

Purposeful Use of Technology

On Day 1 of term 2, the whole staff engaged in a professional learning day focussed on Wellbeing. One of our speakers for the day was Dr. Danielle Einstein who is a clinical psychologist and researcher. She presented staff with a range of data on social media use and its impact on wellbeing. Danielle Einstein is assisting us with a community consultation into technology use and how we can be more purposeful with its use in the future. Thanks to parents, staff and students who have volunteered to be part of our Working Parties. Our first meeting with Danielle will be on 12 June and we will update you on the process afterwards.

Girls Night In

This year’s Girls Night In was an extraordinary success, setting the tone for an inspiring Term 2. Our senior students went above and beyond to ensure that this much-anticipated event on the College calendar was more than just a night of fun and connection, but also about raising both awareness and funds to support women’s cancer research and initiatives. With 55 vibrant stalls, our student creativity and generosity shone through demonstrating Serviam in Action. The stalls sold everything from baked goods, sweets and jewellery to beautifully crafted cards and hand-knit items. The energy and generosity of our community was truly remarkable, and thanks to everyone’s efforts we are thrilled to announce that we raised $21,675. For a full recap of the evening, be sure to check out the detailed report in this newsletter.

Mother’s Day Mass and Breakfast

The Mother’s Day Mass and Breakfast was a truly heartwarming celebration! It was beautiful to see so many mothers, grandmothers and mother figures gathering in Our Lady of Fatima Church to celebrate the Eucharist with their daughters and granddaughters. A highlight of the Mass was hearing our two co-captains’ mothers Loubna Fadel and Nikki Suters-Sly reflect on the profound meaning of motherhood.

Following the Mass, we enjoyed a delightful breakfast in Merici, where students and their mothers embraced the opportunity to capture special moments through photos and the atmosphere was filled with warmth, gratitude, and a strong sense of community—a perfect way to honour the incredible women in our lives.

St Ursula’s Parents Association (SUPA) Meeting

Our SUPA meeting on Thursday 15 May was well attended. The College Leadership Team provided parents with updates on Teaching and Learning, community events and new initiatives such as the Year 11 Empower Study Skills Program. We were able to consult and receive feedback from our parents on our upcoming Inquiry and Review Process and our SUPA Committee provided updates on upcoming events: Mother Daughter Movie Night on 28 May, Gala Parent Dinner on 30 August and Father Daughter Bowling Night on 11 September.

Enrolments for 2027

Last week, the College Leadership Team and Middle Leaders conducted enrolment interviews for Year 7 2027. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet prospective families as well as our current families. If you have a daughter for our Year 7 2027 intake and you have not yet placed an Application for Enrolment Form, I encourage you to prioritise this as soon as possible.

Upgrade to facilities

Lastly, we are excited to announce that our Student Amenities Block near the Canteen is being refurbished. The builders will begin the task from the end of next week and it will take approximately ten weeks to complete. We have also installed new seating at the front of the school and cold water refill stations will be installed next Monday. The students were very excited when these upgrades were shown to them at the last assembly. I cannot wait to see their excitement once the Amenities Block is complete. It will be beautiful.

Many blessings to you all.

Vivienne Awad
Principal

Gospel Reflection

‘Love one another as I have loved you.’ You may think that Our Lord’s extravagant extreme of love in voluntarily undergoing death for us, is something no human being could ever measure up to.

But actually, something like this happens whenever a mother or father sits by the bedside of a child suffering the terrible pain of a chronic illness or traumatic accident and, perhaps, even facing the prospect of death. Such a parent will invariably say ‘I would rather suffer and die than see my child suffer and die.’ It is the same with a person seeing their much loved life partner in a similar situation.

Each of us, usually to a lesser degree and in less fraught circumstances, has the opportunity to absorb, to some extent, the sufferings of others. We are thus given the possibility of fulfilling the command: ‘Love one another as I have loved you.’

‘Jesus loved us first’, Pope Francis reminded us. This is the key to the newness of Jesus’ commandment.

As Francis pointed out, it was already an established principle that you should love your neighbour. It is in the Torah in the books of Deuteronomy and Leviticus, so well established as Jewish law and custom. What Jesus does is extend this, going beyond formal concern for our neighbour to a really deep love – ‘as I have loved you’.

Jesus’ love, “is God’s universal love, without any conditions or limits.” Pope Francis said.

Which is why it is important to start by knowing that Jesus already loves us, irrespective of who we are or what we have done. He loves us, Pope Francis explains, ‘despite our frailties, our limitations and our human weaknesses.’ In fact, as Francis adds, it was Jesus himself ‘who ensured we become worthy of his boundless and never-ending love.’ Through his death we are worthy of this kind of love. There is nothing we can do to make him love us more or less than he already does. God’s love, by definition, is boundless.

So, aided by the Holy Spirit, we are called to experience and express the love of Christ. As the late Pope said, if we are truly open to this, then ‘we can spread everywhere the seed of love that renews relationships between people and opens horizons of hope.’ In this year of Jubilee, when we are called to be Pilgrims of Hope, showing love to others, even those people we might find it hard to love, is how we show true Christian love – just like Jesus did.

Julie Monk
Religious Education Coordinator

Remembering Pope Francis

Pope Francis’ passing marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church, leaving behind a profound legacy that continues to inspire young people worldwide.

Throughout his papacy, he championed social justice, environmental stewardship and inclusivity, encouraging youth to take an active role in shaping a more compassionate and just world. His emphasis on education as a tool for peace and dignity resonated deeply with young Catholics, fostering a generation committed to faith-driven action. His teachings on humility, service, and care for the marginalised will remain a guiding force, urging youth to carry forward his vision of a Church that listens, welcomes, and uplifts all people. 

If you would like to express your condolences, please click on this link to write messages, thoughts, and prayers in honour of the late Pope in the Book of Remembrance.

Nicole Katacos
Youth Ministry Coordinator

A shepherd returns to the Father’s house: Honouring the life and legacy of Pope Francis

Habemus Papum!

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, the 133 cardinals — the church’s highest-ranking clergy — gathered to elect a new pope for the Catholic Church in the secret conclave in Rome.

On Thursday afternoon local time, white smoke billowed from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel and the bells of St Peter’s Basilica rang out, signifying the cardinals had elected a new pope. The cardinals cast at least four ballots at the Vatican before a cardinal received at least two-thirds of the vote.

Over an hour after the white smoke emerged, the new pope, clad in his papal vestments, stepped onto the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica and greeted the world. Our new Pope was Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, born September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, in the United States of America.

In September 1977, Prevost joined the Order of Saint Augustine and lived in St Louis, Missouri. He was sent to Rome to study and became a priest in 1982 at the age of 27. He went on to earn a doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical College of St Thomas Aquinas in Rome. Prevost joined the Augustinian mission in Peru in 1985. In 1987, he returned to the US to work as vocational director for the Augustinian Provinces of Illinois and Wisconsin. He returned to Peru in 1988 where he taught Canon Law at the Augustinian seminary in Trujillo for many years and served as a judge in the regional ecclesiastical court. He was instrumental in the Augustinians’ efforts to convince Peruvians to become priests in the order.

In 1998 Prevost was elected as Provincial Prior of the Augustinian order in Chicago and was then elected Prior General of the Order of Saint Augustine in 2001. He served two six-year terms until 2013. From 2013 to 2014, Prevost was director of formation at the Convent of St. Augustine in Chicago.

In 2014, Pope Francis picked Prevost to be the apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo in Peru and in 2015 was appointed as Bishop. Due to a diplomatic treaty, Prevost became a naturalised Peruvian citizen before becoming bishop.

Pope Francis made Prevost a cardinal in 2023. Before becoming pope, Prevost, who is 69, was the head of the church’s Dicastery for Bishops, meaning he oversaw the selection of new bishops.

Cardinal Prevost chose the papal name Leo, one of the more popular choices in history, which has been used by 13 previous popes. The most recent one, Pope Leo XIII, served from 1878 to 1903. Leo XIII was known for his work on social justice and Catholic Social Teaching, particularly workers rights.

Fun facts about Pope Leo:

• Pope Leo is the First American Pope
• He is also the first Peruvian Pope (due to his Peruvian citizenship)
• Pope Leo likes to play Wordle!
• He has a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Villanova University in Pennsylvania
• Pope Leo met Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis (and has photos to prove this!)
• His birthday is the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (April 21)
• Pope Leo’s favourite sport is tennis.
• His native language is English, but he speaks several languages including Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese and he can read German and Latin.
• Pope Leo is the youngest of 3 boys.
• His Dad, Louis Prevost, worked as a Navy Lieutenant and his Mom, Mildred Martinez Prevost, ran the local parish and worked in the library.
• Due to his mother working for the parish he grew up surrounded by priests.
• He is a Chicago White Sox fan! Video of him at the World Series Final in 2005 is currently going viral on social media.
• Young Robert Prevost was the smartest boy in his class. He was a member of the National Honour Society and a participant in speech and debate.
• At high school he was an editor-in-chief for his school yearbook.
• His first words as Pope to the crowds were “Peace be with all of you!”

Julie Monk
Religious Education Coordinator

Church in Sydney welcomes Pope Leo XIV

Mother’s Day Mass and Breakfast

Mother’s Day has been celebrated in Australia on the second Sunday of May since 1924 but, Catholics have been celebrating a sort of mother’s day since the first few centuries of the Church. The fourth Sunday of Lent, or Laetare Sunday, traditionally was a time to return to your mother church (home parish) and leave an offering.

Those who practised this custom were said to have gone “a-mothering”, and soon it became known as “Mothering Sunday.” As the popularity of “Mothering Sunday” grew, it became a day when domestic servants were given leave to be with their families. The day became one of the few times a year where a grown family could gather, as working families often had conflicting schedules. Once the tradition became a day for family reunion, with a reference to mothers in the name, it naturally evolved to include all mothers within the celebration. For children, the long walk back home became a time for picking flowers for mum, and this would grow to the tradition of giving gifts of all sorts to mothers.

In Catholic tradition, the month of May is dedicated to Mary. Chosen by God above all other women, Mary’s faith and obedience paved the way for the Incarnation. Her example teaches us faith, obedience, humility and most of all, how to love. As St Thomas of Villanova said, “If in this world any creature ever loved God with whole heart, with whole soul and with whole mind, she was the creature.”

Last Friday we celebrated our Mothers, Grandmothers, Aunts and special women who care for the girls in our College community with a Mass and refreshments. Fr Emmanuel from OLF parish led us in Mass and we are so grateful for his willingness to assist us in blessing our mothers and special women. We were lucky to have Ms Olsen and students of our music department to lead us in hymns.

Mrs Fadel and Mrs Sly, mother’s of our College Co-Captains, gave a beautiful reflection at the Mass. Please click here to read their Mother’s Day reflection.

I hope all our mums and mother figures were celebrated last Sunday and know how much they are loved and appreciated. Mums suffer the greatest heartaches, the greatest of joys and everything imaginable in between. This Mother’s Day, let’s give each other grace. Mums nowadays are inundated with information, opinions, social media, choices and advice, and we’re thrown into doing so much with very little help sometimes. Let’s say a little prayer for each other for strength, courage, and patience. 

Mary, Jesus’ mother and the greatest of all models to look up to when getting through our day-to-day life, is someone we can turn to and ask for intercession. Our Blessed Mother, even in her perfection, still somehow experienced similar feelings to those that we feel as mothers. I’d like to think that because Mary and so many other women were great mothers, we can be too.

Julie Monk
Religious Education Coordinator

Term 2 Outreach: Ignite Food Store

Term 2 sees our Outreach focus on supporting a local community group. In exploring ways to assist the Ursuline outreach in Sydney, we hope to support the work of Jesuit Social Services—a group that Sr Patty Andrews supports through her ministry at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Plumpton. 

Anchored in the Gospel value of “Love your neighbour as yourself” (Mark 12:31), this initiative encourages students to actively support those facing systemic disadvantage. Jesuit Social Services provide education, mental health support, and opportunities for social inclusion, reflecting Jesus’ call to care for the vulnerable and work for justice. By engaging in this effort, students can tangibly live out their faith and respond to the needs of their community.

For over a decade Jesuit Social Services has been connecting with and offering service to the people of Emerton and wider Mt Druitt. 

From the very basic offering of simple bags of donated food to what is now a mission providing essential support to thousands of people every year. Every day we connect with families and individuals who are struggling. Imagine what it must be like to be out of food and still have 5 days before there’s any money in your account. So many people out here experience this on a regular basis and Ignite Food Store has become the point of hope for so many people.

Due to increased costs of living we are now seeing young families, retired and elderly folks, low income families, people experiencing homelessness, unemployed younger people, people with disabilities, and women and children escaping from domestic violence. All are regular visitors to the Ignite Food Store. They leave with bags full of fresh fruit and vegetables and other essential food items to get them and their loved ones through the fortnight. Your contribution and generosity make such a wonderful impact on the lives of so many and partner with us in building a just society.

On behalf of the Ignite Food Store team and the Emerton and broader Mt Druitt communities a huge thank you!

All Items are to be placed into the back of the College Chapel during WEEK 6 and 7 ONLY- This is a two week campaign. 

WATCH: Ignite Food Store

Items will be collected from the Chapel by Jesuit Social Services in Week 8.

Thank you for your support.

Antoinette Nader
Assistant Leader of Learning: Religious Education
Service & Outreach Coordinator

Youth Ministry News

Welcome back! It has definitely been a busy start to the term, one filled with wonderful opportunities for students to nurture our community and grow in their faith together.

Over the April school holidays, several students attended the Purpose Camp, a valuable opportunity for students from Sydney Catholic Schools to come together and grow in faith. 

Please enjoy the reflections below from two students about their experience. 

Nicole Katacos
Youth Ministry Coordinator

During the April school holidays, I had the privilege to take part in Purpose Camp held by Sydney Catholic Youth at the Benedict XVI Retreat Centre. The camp consisted of three days and two nights, where nearly over 100 school students from years 9-12 attended.

The camp started with talks from Fr Richard Sofatzis, who spoke of his journey to priesthood, and Fr Daniele Russo who spoke about vocation and the true meaning of happiness. The day was then followed by small, meaningful group discussions. At the end of the first night, a Mass was held and we did team building activities such as trivia and chants. 

The next day was the first full day of the camp beginning with talks from Simon Carrington, founder of Fire Up Ministries, and his journey on being a devout Catholic and how we can be ‘Fire Up’ Catholics. This was followed with another talk on St Thérèse of Lisieux about how we can learn to appreciate the smaller things in life. In the afternoon, we completed activities such as a three-legged race and Jenga stacks. After sundown, we prayed the Rosary around the campsite, followed by an all night Adoration. At this time we were also able to partake in confession. The night was filled with the strong devotion for our Lord. 

The next morning Benediction took place at 8am, and after that, it was time to pack our bags, have mass together for the last time, and head home. 

After attending this camp many times over my high school years, I can firmly say that this camp has changed my faith and kept it constantly going in an uphill direction knowing there are other people who love the Lord just as much as me out there. 

God Bless. 

Talija Cakarun
Year 12

From Tuesday 22 April to Thursday 24th April, I was blessed to be able to attend the Sydney Catholic Youth Purpose Camp 2025. It was my second time attending the camp. 

Purpose Camp comprises different activities while incorporating talks and other activities to help us Catholics grow spiritually. On the first day we did some ice breaking activities and heard from Fr Richard Sofatzis who spoke about this journey to priesthood from Orthodoxy to Catholicism. We also heard from Fr Daniele Russo speaking to us about our purpose in life and about our vocations and about happiness. 

On the second day, a man named Simon Carrington spoke to us about how to be ‘fired up catholics’ and how we can maintain our faith in the modern world. Female students then learnt about how to maintain their femininity and how to understand the concept of the ‘Feminine Genius’; the 4 virtues of generosity, maternity, receptivity and sensitivity, given to women from God that aid us to live life. 

Later in the afternoon, Simon spoke to us about St Thérèse of Lisieux and how “small acts with great love” are crucial in our lives on our journey to heaven.

After dinner, we participated in a Rosary procession. We walked around the centre with lit candles, and knelt in front of the crosses on the hill. We then participated in Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Attending Adoration in the early hours of the morning was such a peaceful and beautiful time to spend with the Lord. 

On the last day of camp we had Benediction in the morning and after breakfast we all played outside on the tennis courts, soccer field and on the volleyball court. We reflected on our time at camp and were sad to leave but so grateful for the experience. The camp was not only an eye opening experience but allowed me to connect deeply with my faith and continue on my spiritual journey to becoming a ‘fired up catholic’. 

I hope that many others will continue to go to this camp as it’s an amazing experience to strengthen your faith and to connect with people who share the same morals and faith. 

God Bless.

Erica Pedisic 
Year 12

Girls Night In

Our 2025 Girls Night was our biggest yet, with $21,675 being raised for women’s cancer. A huge thank you to all involved in making the evening a huge success!

Elyana Fadel and Zara Sly
College Co-Captains

Senior Ethics Olympiad

On Monday 5 May, two teams, from Year 11 and 12 competed in the Senior Ethics Olympiad that took place over Zoom. This year’s competition looked at 8 cases which students analysed and discussed real-life, timely, ethical issues. The Ethics Olympiad differs from debating in that students are not assigned opposing views, rather they defend whatever position they believe is right and win by showing that they have thought carefully, deeply and perceptively about the case in question. The competition involved discussing and refuting cases against a range of schools in NSW, being judged on ethical theories and moral objectivism.

A big congratulations to the following two teams of eth-letes who represented the College, with team one achieving an Honourable Mention from the judges!

Team 1:

• Carol Zhong
• Sarina Chou
• Aya Elachi
• Olivia Curto
• Isabella Xenos

Team 2:

• Cate Camarda
• Isabelle Ung
• Bianca Fortunato
• Ava Burns Bonnici
• Lilyana Mitrevska

Through this competition, our eth-letes developed their critical thinking skills through engaging in important discussions with each other and students from other schools. The teams worked hard preparing over the last 7 weeks, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and collaboration.

Kaitlyn McDougall
Newman Teacher In-Charge

TexStyle Exhibition

Year 10 and Year 12 Textiles students visited the Embroiderers Guild in Concord West, for the TexStyle Exhibition. The exhibition is a display of outstanding HSC Textile major projects from 2024.

A big congratulations to 2024 graduate, Elena Cavdarovski, who not only had her work exhibited but also received the FDS (Fashion Design Studio) TAFE Award.

The students were very inspired by the amazing display of creativity. Year 12 student, Alannah Skurray reflects on her experience:

It was such an amazing experience to see so many Major Textile Projects completed to such a high standard. I was able to take note of the key features in these works, which has inspired and helped me solidify the details of my own project.

Year 11 students reflect on their excursions

Studies of Religion I excursion – Central Synagogue and The Great Synagogue

On Monday the 12 May, the Year 11 cohort studying Studies of Religion 1 embarked on an excursion to extend their knowledge and experience on their current study focus area, Judaism. The day began by arriving at the Central Synagogue Bondi Junction, where students listened to the educator Dr Jonathan Kaplan speak about aspects of Judaism that aligned with their syllabus. Their knowledge was extended in areas including the core beliefs, practices and history of Judaism, what defines a Jew and much more. They were further immersed into the Jewish culture, by then visiting the Great Synagogue on Elizabeth Street, an Orthodox Synagogue. While admiring the architecture and aspects of the great building, students got the opportunity to freely ask questions to the Rabbi Ben Elton. They could inquire about all areas of Judaism, further deepening their understanding of the religion from a faithful Rabbi. Students learned about the Jewish community in Sydney, the operations of a Jewish service, Jewish traditions, etc. Overall, the immersive excursion provided students with the opportunity to expand their study of Judaism, listening to the informative words of Sydney’s faithful and animated Jewish community.

Isabella Xenos
Year 11

Studies of Religion II – Lakemba Mosque and Temple Emanuel, Woollahra

On Monday 12 May, Year 11 Studies of Religion II students from St Ursula’s College visited Lakemba Mosque (Masjid Ali Bin Abi Talib) and Emanuel Synagogue in Woollahra, gaining valuable insight into Islamic and Jewish traditions. At Lakemba Mosque, they spoke with Sheik Jamal, who provided a deep understanding of Islamic prayer rituals, the Five Pillars of Islam and the mosque’s role in guiding worship and fostering community connections. He also explained the significance of halal dietary laws, the importance of fasting during Ramadan and how faith influences daily life for Muslims.

Later, at Emanuel Synagogue, students met with Rabbi Sam, who discussed the 613 mitzvot (commandments) that guide Jewish life, the covenant between God and the Jewish people and how these laws shape moral and ethical responsibilities. He showed students a Torah scroll, explaining its intricate writing process, how it is preserved and its central role in Jewish worship and identity. Students had the opportunity to see firsthand how the Torah is used in synagogue services, reinforcing their understanding of Jewish teachings, traditions and the significance of sacred texts.

This excursion ultimately allowed students to engage directly with religious leaders, broadening their understanding of cultural diversity and how faith is practiced in different communities. By actively asking questions, students enriched their studies in a practical and meaningful way, deepening their knowledge beyond the classroom.

Ava Burns Bonnici
Year 11

Studies of Catholic Thought – St Mary’s Cathedral and St Canice’s Kitchen, Rushcutters Bay

On the morning of the excursion we started with a tour at St Mary’s Cathedral, which was an unforgettable experience. We were helped by the tour guide who had extensive knowledge about the architecture and history of the Cathedral which was incredibly valuable for our next assessment task. As we were walking around the gothic arches and complex stained glass windows it caught all of our attention, which our tour guide provided us with extensive knowledge about its spiritual significance, and its role in Sydney’s heritage. The tour also highlighted stories of faith, resilience, and the traditions that have shaped St Mary’s over the years. The visit left us in awe of both the artistry and the deep sense of faith that defines this sacred place.

Keneisha Kayastha
Year 11

After the tour of St Mary’s Cathedral, we had the privilege of going to visit St Canice’s Kitchen in Rushcutters Bay. We were greeted by one of the volunteers, Oliver, who gave us a tour of the place and explained what they do to help the community. The students then sorted through all of the food donations, throwing out all of the food that was unable to be used and organising them into different boxes for the kitchen to cook the following day. Once we were finished, Oliver took us into the kitchen where we prepared, made, and wrapped sandwiches for the community to eat the next day.

This experience at St Canice’s Kitchen gave us a practical example of the Catholic commitment to social justice and service, which is deeply rooted in the Church’s understanding of the Trinitarian God. This work at St Canice’s Kitchen gave us an opportunity to support those in need, recognising their inherent dignity as Children of God.

Natasha Chaksai
Year 11

Project 10:10

On Wednesday 7 May, our Year 10 cohort were visited by the Mission and Identity team who spoken to them about Project 10:10. This program was designed by Sydney Catholic Schools in response to the need for better sexual consent education in schools from a Catholic Perspective.

Taking its name from the Scripture Passage John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly,” utilizes saint Pope John Paul II’s theology of the body as a foundation for teaching Year 10 students about their purpose, worth and respectful relationships through authentic self-sacrificial love. 

Thanks to Alex Liminos and Cheryl Fernandez from Sydney Catholic Schools for their presentation and visit. 

Julie Monk
Religious Education Coordinator

Year 10 Peer Support Training

This term, Year 10 students took part in an exciting Peer Support Training program designed to equip them with leadership skills and strategies to support our Year 7 students in the College community.

The training focused on fostering empathy, communication, and teamwork, enabling students to take on the vital role of guiding and mentoring their younger peers. Through activities and engaging discussions, participants developed skills in active listening, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.

The Peer Support initiative plays a crucial role in promoting a sense of belonging and connection at St Ursula’s. By giving students the opportunity to step up as leaders, the program helps create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

A special thank you to Miss Murray, Ms Olsen and Ms Quail who guided and trained the students throughout this process. Their expertise, encouragement, and commitment to student growth have been invaluable in making this program a success.

As our trained Year 10 students prepare to take on their responsibilities in the coming months, they will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on their younger peers, fostering friendships, resilience, and school spirit. Well done to all involved in this fantastic program!

Anne Sukkar
Leader of Wellbeing

Space and STEM exploration

Year 9 students recently embarked on an exciting excursion to the University of Wollongong Science Space Centre where they immersed themselves in a range of science and STEM-based activities.

One of the highlights of the day was watching a captivating planetarium show that deepened their understanding of Earth’s orbital and rotational path around the Sun as well as its place within the solar system and the broader Milky Way galaxy.

In addition to this cosmic exploration, students also participated in hands-on experiments involving chemical reactions, learning how these processes play a crucial role in everyday life.

Another engaging component of the day was a STEM-based engineering challenge. Students were tasked with designing a helicopter landing pad on the side of a tall skyscraper. This activity required students to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they worked collaboratively to overcome design and construction obstacles. The excursion offered a fun and educational experience that brought science and engineering concepts to life outside the classroom.

Jessica Colussi
Year 9 Assistant Coordinator/Science Teacher

Year 8 enjoy the Show!

On a very warm and sunny last day of term, all of Year 8 enjoyed an action packed day at The Royal Easter Show. Students have been studying agriculture, food, fibre and textiles in Technology, so it was a great opportunity to get up close and personal with all the wonderful displays, innovative foods and farm animals.

The girls enjoyed watching the sheep shearing, milking displays, district exhibits, baby chickens & the chips on a stick! 

Emma Smith
Acting TAS Coordinator/VET Teacher

Kids Lit Quiz

On Monday 7 April, 112 students from 13 schools came to St Ursula’s to compete in the Kids’ Lit Quiz. Called ‘the sport of reading’ the quiz tests the students’ knowledge of literature from a wide range of genres. Questions ranged from folktales and fairytales to classic literature and the ever-popular Harry Potter series. The winner of the heat will move onto the Australian Final at Glebe in June, with the world finals to be held in South Africa.

Quizmaster Nicole Deans was impressed with the quality of the teams with a tie-breaker to decide the final placings. Congratulations go to the three St Ursula’s teams who showed great skill and determination; Sarah Lomas, Melanie Zarifeh, Charlotte Saoud, Chelsea Wang, Annabel Tarbuck, Angelica Oskis, Charlotte Saliba, Sophie Ung, Katerina Aoun, Elizabeth Richards, Audrey Choi and Elena Chung. Thank you also to the students who volunteered to ensure the day ran smoothly; Yana Kotsos, Chelsea Serrano, Emma Monticciolo, Ivy Tizzone, Ava Crowley-Sweet, Laura Mogan, Lana Fell, Lilyana Mitrevska, Amy Allerton, Zyva Chau and Joyce Wang.

Elizabeth Landsdown
Resource & Information Coordinator

Backflips against bullying

Year 7 students enjoyed watching the interactive and energetic performance “Backflips against bullying”. 

Mikayla Jamhour
Year 7

Evana Loho
Year 7

Walk On Country – Oatley Park

On our first day back at school, we learnt about the oldest surviving culture in the world. Aboriginal educator, Dean Kelly, guided us through Oatley Park explaining how Aboriginal peoples lived on the land, known to them as ‘mother’.

We saw scar trees in a row that indicated a song line, learnt about the medicinal uses of sarsaparilla bush for cleaning blood, geebung for eye infections, bracken fern for stings and Sydney red gum for toothache. We made it to a rock shelf where we sat in silence listening to the sounds of the bush. Here are the highlights according to our Aboriginal students and their friends:

Maya … I learnt that the sarsaparilla leaf can be boiled 3 times and still be as potent. It is used to heal and bring good health.

Violet …   I liked how you could tell what type of tool was used to cut the tree by the way it heals – that’s how we know the canoes were carved with stone axes rather than steel.

True … I enjoyed learning about and experiencing how important it is to return to the nature and life around us and how everything is connected.

Amelia … I found it interesting that the trees are still living even though the middle is cut out.

Olivia … l enjoyed learning how nature was used by Aboriginals and how they produced medicine and resources.

Kaileigh … lt was interesting to learn that when taking food or a resource from the land you have to first ask for permission and then thank the land/plant to show respect and gratitude. Some of us tried the warhead berry and it tasted like a lemon grape.

Charlotte … lI learnt that all these different plants provide different remedies and offer people further connection to the land.

Mrs Horder … lI found it interesting to learn about the link between the flowering wattle bush and the migration of the whales.

Even though we ended up getting wet, it was a great experience!

Karen Horder
ATSI Education Support Teacher

Thursday Sport

Amelia’s volleyball success!

A huge congratulations to Year 8 student, Amelia Hui, who is Sydney Catholic Schools’ only member selected in the NSW U/15 Volleyball team. 

How long have you been playing volleyball and who/what inspired you to play?

I’ve been playing volleyball for around one and a half years. I was introduced to the sport by my sister, who encouraged me to join a volleyball development program.

What is involved in being selected for the NSW team?

To be selected for the NSW team, I first had to go through try-outs for the CCC (Combined Catholic Colleges) selection team. After getting through that stage, I then had the chance to trial for the All Schools selection team. Once I was selected for the CCC team, I trained about 3–4 times a week to get ready for the next level and to keep improving my skills. The All Schools try-outs were really tough. The hardest part was competing against players who were two years older than me. They had more experience and were stronger, which made it challenging. But I didn’t let that stop me. I stayed focused, gave it my best, and kept pushing myself to do well.

Do you have any advice for other students wishing to get involved in volleyball?

My advice for people that want to start playing volleyball is to just give it a go—even if you’ve never played before. Volleyball is a sport that welcomes all skill levels, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly you can improve with practice and dedication. Join school teams, development programs, or local clubs to get started and build your confidence.

Reflecting on the 2025 Basketball season

The Sydney Catholic Schools Basketball Tournament 2025 was a fantastic showcase of skill, teamwork and resilience as our Junior, Intermediate and Senior basketball teams competed across these matches.

The Junior team played courageously in their semi-final match against Aquinas but unfortunately faced a tough loss, scoring 63-20. Despite the result, their determination and effort throughout the tournament was incredible, they should be incredibly proud of this achievement.

Our Intermediate team demonstrated extraordinary talent and perseverance. Despite multiple injuries throughout the season, they won their semi-final against Aquinas with a score of 44-32, advancing to the grand finals. This team claimed an incredible win against Bosco, dominating with a score of 51-22. They were selected to compete in the SCS Basketball finals and placed 2nd in all of Sydney Catholic Schools.

The Seniors displayed exceptional teamwork in their semi-final match against St Pats, which ended in a draw, 32-32. Their performance was nothing short of inspiring, showcasing sportsmanship until the very end.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our coaches, Mr Russo, Mrs Peterson, Assistant Coach Peggy and Mrs Manalo, for their unwavering support and commitment. Their guidance and expertise prepared the teams, motivating players throughout the tournament.

As a whole, the basketball teams demonstrated remarkable teamwork and represented the school with pride, leaving a lasting impression on the court. Congratulations to all the players and coaches for making this tournament a memorable experience!

Liana Kazzi, Emily Zafiropoulos & Tahlee Kostanti
Year 10

Get your tickets for Matilda JR Today!

St Ursula’s College presents the 2025 musical production of “Matilda JR”!

Tickets can be purchased for $25 each and are selling fast. Don’t miss your chance see our students bring Roald Dahl’s story to life!

Scan the QR code or visit www.trybooking.com/DAKON to get your tickets today.

Mother-Daughter Movie Night

Save the Date – Gala Dinner – 30 August 2025

We are thrilled to announce the first-ever Gala Dinner, organised by the St Ursula’s Parents Association (SUPA). This exciting event is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate in style. Make sure to mark your calendars for what promises to be an unforgettable evening. Stay tuned—further details will be shared soon.

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

SCS Parent Pilgrimage Opportunities

The Family Wellbeing & Education Team from Sydney Catholic Schools invites parents, carers, and grandparents to take part in a Parent Pilgrimage during this Jubilee Year – a time to step away from daily routines and walk in faith. Each pilgrimage offers a unique theme and experience, blending prayer, reflection, and community. Whether along the stunning coastline, in the heart of the city, or in preparation for Advent, these journeys will inspire and renew your spirit.

Join us as we walk together in faith!

TERM 2 | Friday, June 13, 2025
Steps of Faith: A Pilgrimage of Strength and Spirit (St Brigid’s, Coogee/The Eileen O’Connor Centre)
Open to the first 50 Parents, Carers & Grandparents Only.

Our faith is a journey that calls us to move both physically and spiritually. Just as athletes train their bodies, we are invited to strengthen our souls through perseverance, trust, and prayer. This pilgrimage along the stunning coastal path will remind us that faith requires endurance, courage, and a heart open to the Holy Spirit. Inspired by the life of Eileen O’Connor, we will reflect on how small steps of faith can lead to great strength in God.

TERM 3 | Monday, September 15, 2025
Sacred Steps: A Pilgrimage of Healing and Hope (St Mary’s Cathedral)
Open to the first 50 Parents, Carers & Grandparents Only

Life’s journey is filled with joys and sorrows, triumphs and trials. Yet, even in suffering, Christ walks with us, offering healing and hope. This pilgrimage to St Mary’s Cathedral is a moment to pause, bring our burdens before the Lord in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and rediscover the peace found in His presence. The day will include a guided tour of the Cathedral by Fr Roberto Keryakos and a crypt tour led by Dr. Robert Haddad, offering a profound encounter with the rich history and faith of the Cathedral church of the Archdiocese of Sydney. Additionally, Fr William Chow will deliver an inspiring talk on the Jubilee of Hope and what it means for you and your family, encouraging us to embrace this sacred time with renewed faith and trust in God’s promises.

TERM 4 | Saturday, November 15, 2025
Preparing Our Hearts: An Advent Retreat Pilgrimage of Hope and Renewal (St Catherine Labouré, Gymea)
Open to Parents, Carers, Grandparents, Parishioners & all SCS Staff 

As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, we are reminded that Advent is a journey of the heart – an invitation to slow down, reflect, and make space for God’s presence in our lives. This retreat pilgrimage to St Catherine Labouré, Gymea is an opportunity to renew our hope, embrace the joy of the Gospel, and ready our hearts for the coming of Jesus. The day will include a presentation by Rev Dr Gregory Morgan PP, who will share practical tips on how to have the best Advent ever, helping us make the most of this holy season.

Please register your interest here: 

1. Steps of Faith: A Pilgrimage of Strength & Spirit  – https://www.trybooking.com/DAMJN

2. Sacred Steps: A Pilgrimage of Healing & Hope –  https://www.trybooking.com/DANIS

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