Principal’s Message

Welcome to our latest newsletter.

Term 2 has been incredibly full and vibrant, filled with many joyful celebrations and events. It has been a rewarding term to witness our students achieve and grow academically as well as in a variety of co‑curricular pursuits. Please enjoy this edition of the newsletter. 

Pope Leo and Sport

Pope Leo XIV’s prayer intention for the month of June is for the value of sports. “In times of war and extreme polarization, sport is one of the few things that bring us closer together,” said Pope Leo on June 2. He added: “Let us pray this June that sport may be an instrument of peace, encounter, and dialogue among cultures and nations, and that it may promote values such as respect, solidarity, and personal growth.”

Our school community has been buzzing with World Cup fever. Last Friday our staff and students came together at lunch to watch the final moments of Australia and Paraguay battle it out for a nil all draw. It was a great display of unity and spirit as the community came together to cheer on Australia. Last week we also had our teams represent the College at Soccer and Netball finals. Our Junior Soccer team and our Intermediate Netball team were accompanied by students who were there to cheer them on. I attended the Netball Finals and I had the privilege of witnessing our College united in spirit and sisterhood as students enthusiastically cheered for their peers. Pope Leo’s message of respect, joy and connection has been clearly reflected in the excitement and togetherness across the College not just during this World Cup season, but throughout the term. You can read about our sporting achievements in this newsletter.

St Ursula Youth and Family Mass Sunday

Last Sunday, 28 June marked the first St Ursula’s Youth and Family Mass, with families and parishioners joining together in a beautiful celebration at Our Lady of Fatima Church, Kingsgrove. Despite the chilly winter evening, it was heartening to see so many members of our community come together. A special thank you to Father Thu, Mrs Nader, Mrs Katacos, Ms Hong for organising this Mass, to our talented readers, singers and musicians and to the many staff and families who attended. Our next St Ursula’s Youth and Family Mass will be held on Sunday 23rd August at 5pm.

Vinnies Annual Winter Sleepout

The Annual Vinnies Winter Sleepout was held on a wet and cold Friday evening, yet an incredible 120 students and staff chose to sleep out in Merici Hall to raise much‑needed funds for families in need. We were fortunate to have ex‑student Josie Charbel join us as a guest speaker, sharing her insights and encouraging our students to continue serving others with compassion. Their commitment and generosity were truly inspiring, and our community should be proud of the way our students stood in solidarity with those facing homelessness. 

SCS Eisteddfod

I had the pleasure of attending the 2026 Sydney Catholic Schools Eisteddfod Showcase last Friday evening at the Seymour Centre, where our Hip Hop dance troupe performed brilliantly with high energy, talent and joy. It has been a big term for our Creative and Performing Arts department, with students participating in 16 Eisteddfod categories and numerous performance opportunities. Friday’s showcase was a wonderful way for some of these students to finish the term, celebrating their hard work, dedication and passion. The talent of our students and teachers is truly remarkable, and it was wonderful to see our community represented so proudly across the Archdiocese. 

Debating

Our Debating teams are now approaching the end of the season, and we could not be prouder of all our debaters. The maturity, confidence and teamwork they have shown has been exceptional throughout the season. We are especially proud of our Year 10 team, who have progressed to the Finals next term, along with their coach Mrs Kasses. A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated coaching staff and to Mrs Horder for her organisation, leadership and unwavering support of all our debaters. 

Yr 11 Drama Production

Yr 11 Drama performed the play ‘This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing’ on Monday 29th June. The play was fabulous and everyone involved should be really proud of themselves.  Two sell out shows at 4pm and 6.30pm had audiences clapping and cheering in …..A special thanks to Drama teacher Ms Walsh Kemp for helping to bring the characters and the show to life and congratulations to the Yr 11 Drama students. 

Years 7 to 10 Parent Student Teacher Interviews

Our term concludes with an opportunity for parents and students to meet with teachers to review academic progress made this semester, reflect on successes, and seek feedback on what students can do to strengthen their learning in Semester 2. I hope all parents have had the opportunity to make time for these important learning conversations. 

God Bless,

Vivienne Awad
Principal

Gospel Reflection

Antoinette Nader
Religious Education Coordinator

Vinnies Winter Sleepout

Looking back over Term 2 we are deeply grateful for the way our community has come together to support those who are doing it tough. Our ongoing partnership with Vinnies Kingsgrove continues to be strengthened by your generosity, and the impact of that support is felt by families and individuals across our local area.

Through the Vinnies Winter Appeal and our efforts for  2026 Serviam Sleepout, parents have once again shown remarkable kindness, offering donations, encouragement, and a spirit of service that inspires our students. Your willingness to stand with us in this mission helps provide warmth, comfort, and care during the colder months, and ensures that Vinnies Kingsgrove and Vinnies Vans Sydney can continue their vital work. I thank the staff who slept out and supported our students in their efforts – a night away from your homes in Week 10 is greatly appreciated. 

Our total currently sits at $6023 and donations are still being accepted on our page.

Your commitment to our outreach efforts not only strengthens our College community but also teaches our young people what compassion in action truly looks like. 

Antoinette Nader
Religious Education Coordinator

Youth Ministry News

Youth and Family Parish Mass

Our very first Youth and Family Mass was a truly special moment for the St Ursula’s community. With a full house, a student‑led liturgy, and an amazing choir, the celebration was alive with energy, joy, and faith. It was a powerful reminder of what happens when young people are given the space to lead – they inspire all of us.

We are delighted to share that St Ursula’s has now committed to leading this Mass once each term. This is more than a calendar addition; it is a meaningful way for us to give back, strengthen our parish family, and continue building a community of hope and belonging.

Ms Hong, Ms Katacos and I look forward to welcoming you to the next Mass on Sunday 23 August at 5pm followed by a BBQ hosted by the Parish.

Youth Night – Friday 21 August

This gathering offers students in Years 7-12, a valuable opportunity to experience a safe and welcoming environment where they can build friendships, deepen their faith, and participate in engaging activities, shared meals, catechesis and prayer. An expression of interest form will be circulated through the College for students next week.

Builders of Hope: How Pope Leo XIV’s Encyclical Guides Teens in a Digital World

Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical speaks directly to the world young people are growing up in – a world full of fast technology, constant online noise, and big global challenges. His main message is simple: your life has deep value, and the choices you make – especially online – shape the kind of person you become. He encourages teens to slow down, think for themselves, and build a strong inner compass based on truth, kindness, and courage. The encyclical also highlights caring for the planet and standing with people who are left out or treated unfairly. These aren’t just “adult issues” – they’re things young people can influence right now.

For high school students, the encyclical becomes practical through everyday actions. Pope Leo XIV urges teens to use technology wisely: post responsibly, avoid spreading misinformation, and treat others with respect online. He calls young people to protect the environment through small habits like reducing waste, recycling, and supporting sustainability projects at school. And he encourages building real community – checking in on classmates who seem lonely, volunteering, and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. The encyclical’s big idea is that young people aren’t just the future – they’re leaders today, capable of shaping a more hopeful and compassionate world.

Four Ways Teens Can Use Technology Wisely

• Responsible Sharing: Think before posting. Pause to ask whether a photo, comment, or meme builds others up or tears them down. Share only verified information and avoid gossip or rumours to protect truth and dignity.
• Digital Kindness: Treat people online the same way you would face‑to‑face. Avoid hurtful comments, support classmates who are bullied, and use social media to encourage rather than embarrass.
• Healthy Boundaries: Set limits on screen time, turn off notifications during homework, and keep phones away from the bedroom helps teens stay grounded, focused, and emotionally balanced.
• Purposeful Creation: Use technology to create good: start a positive message campaign, make videos that teach or inspire, or use digital tools for school projects, activism, or community service.

Nicole Katacos
Youth Ministry Coordinator

Reconciliation Week

This Sunday, Catholics across Australia will celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday. Please click here to view information about engaging with th day.

The Merici Reconciliation Week procession saw PC leaders holding the colours of important flags aloft like giant sails, tying in with our 2026 school theme ‘Set sail into sisterhood’. This connects well with this year’s Reconciliation Australia theme, ALL IN, which asks us to take our part in striving for Reconciliation. Just as setting sail is an action we do together, this is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to reconciliation in Australia. The theme also reminds us that reconciliation isn’t a passive activity, and it is not solely the responsibility of First Nations people, who have carried the weight of championing, explaining and acting for far too long. That’s why every student was invited to commit to Reconciliation by signing their name on their ALL IN  PC circles. 

This assembly saw the launch of our St Ursula’s Acknowledgement of Country video featuring our First Nations students walking on Dharawal Country at Audley where they practiced Dadirri (quiet still awareness and deep listening). The experience of watching gave our whole community a greater appreciation of the local flora and fauna and the amazing history of Aboriginal cultures right on our doorstep. Many thanks to Ms Cranston for creating this video.

Some Australians may ask why we need to be ALL IN. Our St Ursula’s community was reminded of Australia’s history of colonisation and stolen generations and presented with the facts of inequality in our country today. They were shown how Pope Leo and the Australian Bishops have led the way in advocating for First Nations people as a witness to Jesus’ message ‘whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, that you do unto me.’ Students watched as ex-student, Jasmine Lattouf, explained the need for the Sydney University Freedom Rides during Australia’s time of segregation. They also heard from College Co-captain, Olivia Holt, who passionately shared her awakening knowledge of the importance of totems to the identity of Aboriginal Australians. She encouraged everyone to learn more about their fellow Australians, who are part of the oldest continuous living culture on earth.

Other highlights include the Year 12s enthusiastic rendition of this year’s theme song, Midnight Oil’s Beds are Burning whilst on retreat and the rousing live performance by Year 9 as they danced and sang Taba Naba to embrace a part of Torres Strait Islander culture.

Students were shown examples of ways St Ursula’s has been ALL IN over the years and how they can take action today. Ask your daughter about what you can do to make reconciliation a part of your everyday life so Australia can be a fairer place for all to live in harmony.

Karen Horder
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Support Teacher

PASTORAL CARE – Year 7 Camp

Laughter and excitement filled the Clune Centre on Monday 1 June as our Year 7 students said goodbye to their families and set off for their very first St Ursula’s camp.

Upon arrival, they were welcomed by the friendly team at Camp Collaroy and quickly settled into their cabins, eager for the days ahead.

The program was packed with adventure, including drop pole, the giant swing, abseiling, high ropes, laser tag, orienteering, archery and the vertical challenge. Each activity encouraged the girls to step outside their comfort zones, support one another and embrace the spirit of acceptance as they worked together and celebrated each other’s efforts.

Evenings were just as memorable. The disco on Monday night was full of energy and enthusiasm, while Tuesday’s movie night offered a chance to relax and unwind together after a big day of activities.

Across the three days, Year 7 embraced every opportunity, forming new friendships, strengthening connections and learning the importance of accepting one another’s differences, strengths and personalities. The Year 7 PC team would like to thank all students for their wonderful participation, positivity and spirit throughout the camp. We look forward to watching these new friendships continue to grow.

Maria Di Mattia
Year 7 Coordinator

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Camp was more than just outdoor activities and late nights, it was a chance to grow. This year at camp I developed many new skills that wouldn’t be taught in a classroom like facing fears, teamwork and problem solving. One of the most valuable skills I gained was always participating in the activity, no matter how scared I was, no matter how high it was and no matter the challenge given. This experience illuminated the importance of collaboration and cooperation as we were presented with obstacles, puzzles and difficult tasks. This required us to have an abundance of trust and communication throughout our groups. Camp gave me the confidence to take on new challenges and believe in my abilities. Overall, camp helped me grow as a person and taught me skills that I will continue to use in everyday life.

 

Chloe B
Year 7

 

School camp opened up a whole new experience for me. I met new friends, had new experiences and had feelings of excitement and joy. Different activities taught me different things. There were activities with heights, harnesses, teamwork and life lessons that we can use in the future. My personal favourite activity was the giant swing. You get pulled up 15 metres up into the air, then you pull the trigger and you go swinging down at a great speed. When you first go on it’s scary but this taught me that it’s better to try, than to not do it at all. Even though I was away from home this school camp was great fun and I definitely hope I can go again with all my friends!

 

Florencia J
Year 7

PASTORAL CARE – Year 9 Camp

Year 9 participated in a two-day outdoor adventure camp at The Collaroy Centre. They challenged themselves to be brave and courageous in adrenaline activities, built teamwork skills through laser and archery tag, and competed with each other in a trivia competition to end the evening. The Year 9 Teachers are very proud of how each student brought a positive attitude and connected with each other around our camp theme ‘Unity in Sisterhood’. 

Anita Rombola and Nicholas Boscov
Year 9 Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator

Camp was a really fun experience for me and it was so great to make new connections with my peers during activities. The Collaroy Centre was so beautiful and made the experience even more enjoyable.

Harriet C
Year 9

Camp was a positive opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, try new things, and connect with others in my year group. We participated in a range of activities that challenged us to support and encourage one another, building confidence and teamwork.

Tiana V
Year 9

Thanks to the teachers, The Collaroy Centre Staff and Year 9 students, camp fostered our skills and pushed us all to try new things. Whether it be the drop pole, giant swing, high ropes or rock climbing, it taught us how to grow, step out of our comfort zones and support our peers along the way!  It was a memorable experience and we learned a lot about ourselves and classmates.

Emilie J
Year 9

I would just like to say that camp was an awesome experience, allowing me to step out of the boundaries of my comfort zone. Camp also allowed me to connect with new people from my activity group and foster new friendships that I didn’t think were possible before the camp. Lastly, the activities were a perfect mix of team bonding and personal growth, so overall year 9 camp was a lot of fun and a great experience for me.

Sarah H
Year 9

Year 9 camp this year was a very fun and enjoyable experience where our abilities were challenged and we tried new things that we thought we were too afraid to do. Throughout the camp, we learned to trust ourselves and each other, whether it was during team activities, high‑rope challenges, or any other difficult activities. By the end of camp we returned home not only tired but proud of ourselves for what we accomplished.

Leah A
Year 9

Year 9 camp was 2 days of adventure, full of laughter and happiness. I personally sensed a feeling of support for one another amongst my peers.  We took part in fun and challenging activities such as the Giant Swing, Archery Tag, and Abseiling during the day and fun trivia at night to keep our spirits high. Throughout our time at camp, we connected with existing friends and made new ones too, as we navigated our way through the activities together, uniting as one to achieve a positive experience for all. Overall, camp was an enjoyable time and a great way to end a busy term.

Susannah J
Year 9

Year 9 camp was a great mix of fun and personal growth. I’m especially proud that I went on the drop pole, something I never thought I’d be brave enough to do. I also loved staying in the cabins and having time to relax, laugh, and connect with my friends. Trivia night was another highlight because it helped us build closer friendships while working together. Throughout camp, I learned new things about people I thought I already knew, which made the whole experience even more meaningful.

Jasmine J
Year 9

PASTORAL CARE – Year 10 Leadershift Incursion & Peer Support Program

Our Year 10 students enthusiastically participated in the yLead Leadershift Incursion, marking an inspiring beginning to their Peer Support training journey. The full-day experience was filled with energy, connection and meaningful learning, as students embraced the message that “you don’t need a badge to lead.”

Through a range of interactive and engaging team-building activities, students explored how leadership is expressed through everyday actions and choices. The program focused on developing confident, resilient, positive and collaborative leaders, equipping students with the skills to recognise and strengthen their capacity to influence others in a positive way.

A highlight of the day was the Jenga Chaos session, where students explored how attitude and behaviour directly impact outcomes, culture and team success. This powerful activity reinforced that negative choices can create environments of chaos, limiting success for both individuals and groups, while positive actions build supportive and productive communities.

The incursion concluded with the memorable Turning Rope challenge, where the entire cohort worked together to achieve a shared goal, having every student pass through a turning rope without it touching anyone. This activity highlighted the importance of collaboration, communication and unity, reinforcing the idea that together, we are stronger. It was a powerful demonstration of teamwork and the collective potential of the Year 10 cohort.

Following this successful day, students have continued their Peer Support training during Week 9 Pastoral Care lesson, demonstrating a positive and engaged approach. Training will continue into the beginning of Term 3 and then Year 10 students will begin mentoring Year 7 students through a 1:1 Peer Support Program for the remainder of Semester 2. This initiative aims to build strong relationships, foster belonging and provide every student with an authentic opportunity to grow as a compassionate and service-oriented leader.

We commend our Year 10 cohort for their outstanding participation and look forward to seeing them step confidently into their roles as Peer Support Mentors.

Danielle McManus | Celeste Martinez | Katie Fisher
Leader of Wellbeing | Year 10 Coordinator | Year 10 Assistant Coordinator

HSIE – Year 7 Geography: Place & Liveability

Year 7 enjoyed a wonderful excursion to Lavender Bay, Miller’s Point, Barangaroo and Milson’s Point to complement their current unit of study of Place and Liveability in Geography.

Students are currently learning about urbanisation and the Geography excursion was the perfect opportunity to understand and experience our city of Sydney. In particular, the excursion focused on the different places to live and work.

The focus of the excursion was on urban liveability where some key questions were explored, such as: What effect does environmental quality and access to services have on people’s wellbeing? How can strong community identity and social connectedness enhance the liveability of places? What approaches can be used to improve the liveability of places?

Students were able to do first-hand physical testing of sites (noise meters, thermometers and light meters) and there were further opportunities for various observations on the factors that make a place liveable or not e.g. traffic congestion, green spaces in urban areas etc.

Our Year 7 students should be commended for their mature behaviour in the city and their respect shown towards the guides from the Auseco Company that led the walks.

Students were overwhelmingly positive about the experience, including visiting the magnificent public garden at Lavender Bay, the walk across the footpath of the Harbour Bridge and the observations done in the various areas around Milson’s Point, Miller’s Point and Barangaroo.

Joe Russo
HSIE Coordinator

ENGLISH – Sydney Writers’ Festival

On Monday 26 May, we travelled to Chatswood to participate in the Sydney Writers’ Festival. The authors Jasmin McGaughey, Tristan Bancks, Amy Doak, Josh Silver and Alexandra Moody, shared their writing journeys while giving tips on how budding authors can become writers. Tips included strategies for writer’s block, how to publish and edit books (through a publisher or by self publishing). We also heard gripping synopses of their award winning books.

Tristan Bancks and Josh Silver were the most captivating speakers. They both spoke about their previous careers before they moved into writing. Josh Silver spoke about why he writes dystopian novels and why he enjoys the genre so much, as well as the reason behind some of the topics. Tristan Bancks spoke about the techniques he uses to help write consistently, and effectively capture the intended mood and tone.

Lastly, all the authors told us some brief and interesting points about their books giving us unique insights and helpful tips, so that hopefully we can become authors too. It was a really enjoyable, interesting and helpful experience that we recommend to all!

Zyva C and Emilie J
Year 9

CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS – SCS Eisteddfod: Music & Drama

Following the achievements of our Dance troupes at the 2026 Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Eisteddfod, our music and drama students have also delivered exceptional performances, securing impressive results.

In the music categories, Ursula Voices claimed 2nd place in the large vocal ensemble division with their acapella renditions of “After Night Falls” and “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” Our String Ensemble also excelled, earning 3rd place in the Grade 2-5 Category for their performance of Franz Beck’s Sinfonia in A Major. Adjudicators specifically noted the group’s ability to deliver a refined performance while leading themselves without a conductor. Additionally, a Year 9 Rock Band secured 2nd place with a powerful cover of Evanescence’s “Bring Me to Life.”

Our drama students performed remarkably well across the Scripted Performance, Self-devised, and Improvisation categories. A highlight was the Year 10 group, who won 1st place in the Improvisation section for their creative response to the stimulus ‘An Intern’s First Day at the Hospital.’

Further recognition was given through numerous encouragement awards presented to our Stage Band, Orchestra, Rock Bands, and Drama participants.

We are incredibly proud of every student who represented the College. Their dedication, hard work, and talent resulted in a series of outstanding performances. Congratulations to all!

CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS – Year 11 Drama Production

Year 11 Drama students spent ten weeks studying a unit called Page to Stage where they learnt about the role of director and designer in practice to stage a full length production of ‘This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing’ by Finegan Kruckemeyer for an audience.

The class took on multiple roles throughout the production process including actor, co-director and designer. They collaborated as a creative team, learnt lines, improvised and performed, and liaised with the technical operators of lighting, sound and staging (from Year 11 VET Entertainment & the year 9 & 10 Stage Crew) to bring the show to the stage.

The play had a seating capacity of 30 tickets per show and sold out both shows. We are delighted to congratulate the students on their wonderful work this term. They have learnt an incredible amount about theatre-making from this process and will take this experience with them into the HSC and beyond. This class will now embark next term on an experiential play study of two Australian plays before commencing HSC course work in Term 4.

Any year 10 students interested in studying Drama should contact Ms Che Walsh-Kemp with questions. 

Che Walsh-Kemp
Drama & VET Entertainment Industry Teacher

ENRICHMENT – Da Vinci Decathlon

ENRICHMENT – Step-Up Into Teaching Scholarship

The Australian Catholic University (ACU) Step-Up Into Teaching program offers Year 11 and 12 students considering a career in teaching, the opportunity to experience learning in a university environment and study two university level units while still at high school. Students who complete these units are then given a direct conditional offer in a Bachelor of Education at the ACU.

We congratulate the following Year 11 students who have received a scholarship for this program.

• Tiara L
• Indiana U
• Leah A
• Joliene C
• Tahlee Ki
• Katalina R

CO-CURRICULAR – Debating & Mock Trial

DEBATING

Round 1 – 22 April at St Ursula’s

An amazing 53 students volunteered to help St Ursula’s host round 1 against Bethany, showing great Serviam spirit. They welcomed the competitors and their family and friends in a wonderful show of support.

Six dedicated students from each year group successfully auditioned to be part of the 2026 debating team. Congratulations to the following students:

One adjudicator reminded the students that speaking in public is more feared than death by 75% of people! So it was terrific that these talented students were able to quash any fears they may have had to put on a confident display in response to the following very challenging topics:

• That students should design their own school uniform (Years 7-8)
• That our national values should determine our trading partners (Years 9-10)
• That peace is a political imperative (Years 11-12)

Congratulations to all our debaters. Three teams had a win – Year 7, Year 10 and Year 12. Those that did not were gracious in defeat.

Round 2 – 29 April

Our debaters travelled to Marist College Kogarah and were treated to a beautiful afternoon tea. They then went off to prepare their arguments for an hour before being called to attempt to convince the audience in either the affirmative or negative case:

• That Australia is the land of the fair go (Years 7-10)
• That values based policy making is impractical in modern Australia (Years 11-12)

The Seniors and Year 10 had a win. 

Round 3 – 6 May

St Pat’s Sutherland hosted us this week and we gathered in the library. The students were quite happy with the topics:

• That the need for ‘likes’ changes who we are (Years 7-8)
• That our society rewards attention more than contribution (Years 9-10)
• That reputation has become more important than integrity (Years 11-12)

Years 12, 11, 10 and 7 had a win and by all reports Years 8 and 9 were very close!

Huge thanks to our devoted attendees –  ex-student mentors and coaches, Grace Alexander, Anamarija Lokmer and Lilyan Kasses, and our staff coaches Mrs Kasses and Mrs McCarthy. It was great to welcome Ms Magee and Ms Moroney as spectators this week. The College also extends warm appreciation to our amazing adjudicators – Mr Russo, Ms Rombola, Ms Doshen, Ms Kelly and ex-students, Emily Hawkins and Alyssa Hawkins.

Quarter Final – 24 June

Amazing effort by both the Year 12 and Year 10 Debating teams who competed in the Quarter Final last week.

Although our Year 12 team consisting of Olivia H, Yvonne P and Bianca F did not get through to the semi-final, we are super proud of their performance. The topic was That the use of surveillance technology is justified in democratic societies. The panel of three adjudicators said it was a very close debate! We also must congratulate the other members of the team who got them there – Scarlet G, Caitlin C and Ashleigh M for their commitment. 

Huge congratulations to our Year 10 team consisting of Soraya A, Jacinta S and Eden V for their win against St Mary’s Star of the Sea, Wollongong arguing the affirmative
That artificial intelligence has made true privacy impossible.

This win is a testament to their close and respectful teamwork and their ability to perform under pressure. Well done. Now it’s over to the other Year 10 team of Claire R, Isabella S and Aisha C to take up the baton to represent us at the Conference Semi-Final on the first Friday of Term 3 at St Pat’s Sutherland.  Best of luck! 

Karen Horder
Debating Coordinator

MOCK TRIAL

Well done to the Mock Trial team who won their second-round case against St George Christian School.

As defence, the team submitted that there was reasonable doubt in the charge against our defendant who allegedly had behaved recklessly at a hotel, smashing a glass table.
St George very narrowly won the points, but given the team’s superior results in round one, the team is very likely to advance to elimination rounds next term.

Well done to Sara C, Yvonne P, Logno H, Lola N, Gloriana Y and Tyra T.

The next round was against All Saints, Casula as defence in a civil matter. The team won the case in which we were being sued for breach of contract.
The girls also won the points 223 – 200.

Congratulations to Sara C, Yvonne P, Tyra T, Katerina D, Jennifer A and Lucia C

Steven Baker
HSIE Teacher

SPORT – Athletics Carnival

This year persistent rain meant we had to adjust our plans transitioning to a competitor-only event alongside our vibrant Year 12 cohort. 

The track was slick, but that didn’t stop our long-distance runners from setting a gruelling pace in the rain, demonstrating grit over the multi-lap events.

SPORT – Semester 1 – high level sporting achievements

SCS REPRESENTATIVES FOR NSWCCC

SOCCER	Girls Open Khloe I (Year 9)
	Girl Open Charlize K (Year 11)
NETBALL	Girls 15’s Kayla S (Year 10)
TOUCH FOOTBALL	Girls Open (Year 10) Grace H

HIGHER ACHIEVEMENTS

BASKETBALL	Opens NSWCCC Team Imogen M (Year 11)
	15’s & Under NSWCCC Team Zoe S (Year 9)
VOLLEYBALL	15’s & Unders NSWCCC Team & NSW All Schools Team Amelia H (Year 9)
CROSS COUNTRY	NSWCCC Team Isabella M (Year 12)
BOCCE	Gold and Silver Medalist at the 2026 Australian National Championships/ Selected Under 15’s 2027 Australian Team Emily Danelutti

SPORT – SCS Gymnastic Gala Day

St Ursula’s gymnasts proudly represented the College at this year’s SCS Gymnastics Competition, demonstrating exceptional dedication, resilience and school spirit throughout the day.

In the lead up to the competition, students from across a range of year groups committed themselves to weekly Tuesday morning and Thursday afternoon training sessions with our coaches, Antoine, Martin and Satine, alongside Mrs Hespe, Ms Treeves and St Ursula’s alumna Kira. Throughout the term, the girls worked diligently across all apparatus, learning new skills, refining routines and continually improving their technique and execution. 

The atmosphere on the day of the competition was one of encouragement with genuine team spirit. The venue echoed with chants of “Go the Grove!” as teammates enthusiastically supported one another from the sidelines. It was fantastic to see students celebrating each other’s achievements, lifting one another up and embodying the spirit of St Ursula’s throughout the competition.

The competition also showcased the resilience of our team. Several students courageously pushed through injuries and personal fears to compete, while our reserve gymnasts stepped in with minimal preparation when called upon. Their willingness to embrace the challenge and perform for the team demonstrated remarkable courage, adaptability and commitment.

The team’s hard work was recognised with several impressive placings across the competition, reflecting the many hours of dedication invested throughout the term. While these achievements were certainly worth celebrating, the students’ positive attitudes, perseverance and sportsmanship were equally commendable.

A special thank you to our dedicated coaches, Martin and Antoine, whose expertise and passion guided the students throughout the season. Thank you also to Mrs Hespe and Ms Treeves for their unwavering commitment and support, and to St Ursula’s alumna Kira, who generously returned to assist the team and share her experience with our gymnasts. Their encouragement and dedication helped create a positive and supportive environment where every student was able to grow in both skill and confidence.

Thank you to the parents and grandparents for fostering your daughters’ love of gym by bringing them to the 6.30am Tuesday morning training sessions. It was lovely to have a number of parents come out to the competition to cheer on their daughters.

Thank you to our squad members who took photos, volunteered to be runners on the competition floor and cheered on the team. Your efforts are very much appreciated.

Congratulations to all our gymnasts for representing St Ursula’s with pride, determination and outstanding College spirit. Every student should be incredibly proud of themselves!

Vincenza Treeves & Jenny Hespe
PDHPE Teachers

St Ursula’s Squad:

Some Outstanding Results

2026 Gymnast of the Season Award

Melina A (Year 8) is the first ever recipient of this award. It has been awarded to Melina for her passion for everything gymnastics. As a member of the St Ursula’s gymnastics squad since Year 7, Melina has attended early morning training sessions and Thursday sports sessions. She has participated with enthusiasm and a determination to learn and master new skills and displays a keen understanding of gymnastics coaching points. Melina has helped others to improve their skills and routines through encouragement and the use of positive and constructive feedback.  

Congratulations Melina. 

SPORT – Thursday Representative Sport

SOCCER SEMI FINALS – 18 JUNE – ST URSULA’S VS BOSCO

SOCCER CONFERENCE 3 FINALS – 25 JUNE – ST URSULA’S VS MARIST PENSHURST

NETBALL SEMI FINALS – 18 JUNE 

NETBALL CONFERENCE 3 FINALS – 25 JUNE – ST URSULA’S VS MARIST PENSHURST

SPORT – SCS Conference 3 Chess Competition

Chess isn’t just a game, it’s not just about moving pieces, it’s way more than that. Chess is an intense, intricate and competitive mind sport and it causes you to use strategic planning and precision.

On the 9 June St Ursula’s participated in the annual Sydney Catholic Schools Chess Tournament at De La Salle Revesby, competing against both De La Salle schools, Bethany College, Our Lady of Mercy, Aquinas College and many more. 

Even though our school unfortunately didn’t win, we still left with something and that was our resilience. It didn’t matter if we won or lost. No matter what, both Intermediate and Junior teams still got back up and played again. Even if they kept losing they pushed through it all, not fussing over it and whining about how they didn’t win, and to me that’s better than winning a trophy.

One of the most fun parts of the day was when it was less than five minutes before starting our first round of games and my whole team surrounded me while I was teaching them openings tricks and tips to remember and to look out for when playing. It’ll always be something I’ll remember and I will internally laugh at in future. I’ll also remember shaking my opponents sweaty hands and secretly trying to wipe my own hand on my dress, but it wasn’t so secretive and really quite obvious.

Allegra P
Year 8

COMMUNITY – Mother Daughter Movie Night

Dany Elachi
SUPA 

COMMUNITY – Hidden talents of our staff

A number of our staff members at St Ursula’s possess impressive talents outside of their professional roles at the College. Most recently, three of them had the opportunity to showcase these skills through performances in and around the Sydney Opera House as part of Sydney’s Vivid Festival. Here are their stories…

ChorusOz 2026

What does a gardener and a receptionist have in common? They both love to sing! Over the long weekend two of our staff, Anthony Gauci and Rachel Maiden participated in the 2026 ChorusOz production of AIDA.

Each year singers come from around Australia, and indeed the world, for the opportunity to sing at the Sydney Opera House alongside a group of talented soloists with a professional orchestra. This year an abridged concert version of AIDA was the showcase.

Verdi’s AIDA is one of the world’s most celebrated operas, featuring powerful music, dramatic storytelling, and breathtaking choral performances. After months of personal preparation, Anthony and Rachel joined with 800+ singers for a weekend of rehearsals, culminating in a sold-out performance in the Concert Hall on Sunday night. 

Anthony says “It was a truly memorable experience. Performing before enthusiastic audiences and sharing in the excitement of live music made for a very rewarding and enjoyable long weekend.”

Anthony and Rachel both sing with Sydney Philharmonia Choirs. As Rachel says “singing with an organisation that provides such a broad range of opportunities for singers of all abilities, is unique. It is a hobby that is both exhilarating and gratifying.” Rachel is touring with the choir in July performing at the Proms in the Royal Albert Hall and the Gloucester Three Choirs Festival. Their next performance together will be Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem in October at the Sydney Opera House.

Anthony Gauci & Rachel Maiden
Gardener & Receptionist

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Cristal Palace Lights Up Vivid 2026

As a Performing Arts teacher, I believe it’s important to continually develop and maintain your skills, whether through further study or by staying connected to the professional industry. Over the long weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to do just that when I was selected, alongside seven other Australian dancers, to perform in the French touring company’s spectacular production, Cristal Palace. Presented as part of Vivid Sydney 2026, this breathtaking open-air extravaganza transformed the Sydney Opera House forecourt into a world of music, movement and wonder. Audiences were taken on a dazzling journey featuring aerialists, dancers, circus acrobats and live musicians. The show’s centrepiece was a giant crystal chandelier suspended by crane above both the stage and audience, carrying ten musicians high in the air while aerial performers executed gravity-defying feats more than 20 feet above the ground creating a truly magical spectacle against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour.

One of the greatest highlights of the experience was working alongside world-class international artists, gaining an insight into the enormous technical preparation required to bring a production of this scale to life and building connections with fellow local talent.

Another special moment was spotting familiar faces in the crowd, including students and staff cheering us on as we polkaed our way through the audience each evening. Back at school on Tuesday morning, many students and staff were eager to hear all about the production, stopping me in the corridors with questions and sharing their amazement at the scale of the show after seeing photos and videos from the weekend.

Performing at the Sydney Opera House has been a lifelong dream of mine. To share that stage for three unforgettable nights in front of thousands of people, beneath a chandelier filled with musicians floating overhead, was nothing short of extraordinary. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a reminder of the exciting opportunities that the performing arts can create.

Experiences like this are a powerful reminder that performing never truly leaves you. The skills, passion and connections developed through the arts can continue to open doors long after you leave the stage or classroom. You never know what opportunities might be waiting just around the corner, which is why it is so important to keep saying “yes” to new challenges and to continue pursuing the things you love.

Stephanie Josifovski
Music/Dance/Dram/VET Entertainment Teacher

COMMUNITY – NAIDOC WEEK

Students are busily preparing for our NAIDOC week celebrations to take place in the first week of Term 3. Bracelets are being made which will be offered to each student on the first day back as a way to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and languages for the 50 years deadly campaign. Some year 7s are choreographing a dance, Yr 12s are preparing a story and a quiz to share so all are invited to participate in Aboriginal art, dance, story, sport and knowledge quiz to fully embrace the cultures, histories and languages of our First Nations Peoples. 

We are requesting donations of pancake mix so all students can taste a native jam – rosella, quongdong or finger lime jam. Can you help?

You and your families may also want to participate in the activities that all local councils are running in your area.

This Sunday, Catholics across Australia will celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday. Please click here to view information about engaging with th day.

Karen Horder
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Support Teacher

Vale – Frank Reid

Frank was a gifted Maths teacher, teaching to the most advanced level in the HSC, Maths Extension 2, also known as 4 Unit Maths, and only available in Year 12 of the HSC. He inspired students to perform to their highest potential and was a significant contributor to St Ursula’s achieving high overall results in HSC Maths. Frank was highly intelligent and personable with gifted children.

His interest in providing activities and support for talented Maths students led to his running a Program from Sydney University, assisted by the Maths Coordinator. It grew in popularity among local schools and at times they had 50/60 or more boys and girls doing challenging Maths for several hours after school. It was particularly fun one time when the power went out for some time in the lower A Block classrooms. They also provided afternoon tea for this group. It was a bit like doing loaves and fishes to make the little money they had to feed them all.

Frank was so passionate about teaching Maths he never finished a lesson on the bell. I remember a staff member getting very frustrated if she was timetabled into a room after Frank because he always kept her waiting!

Frank had a passion for and a love of music. He played the guitar and could sing well. During assembly one St Ursula’s Day he performed ‘When You Say Nothing At All’ in a soulful manner at a particularly poignant time in his life. Frank also composed and performed a song at a student’s funeral (the niece of a colleague). She had been in his Pastoral Care class for a short while and he was particularly caring towards her.

His dedication showed in all aspects of his own children’s education and sporting interests. Frank helped establish the St Ursula’s cricket team when cricket was introduced for Saturday sport. He assisted the PE staff with showing the girls how to bat properly and organised a practice game at Dowsett Park against the boys next door from De La Salle. A game he also umpired!

Frank was also a great mentor for the whole Maths staff over the many years he served as a friend and colleague. If you ever had difficulty with solving a problem he would help when asked. We always knew he was destined to study, teach and lecture at higher levels. We realised this when he shared the articles he wrote for ‘The Parabola’ magazine such as explaining the physics behind the reverse swing phenomenon of an aging cricket ball.

As a male teacher Frank fitted well into the positive ethos of St Ursula’s encouraging strong independent minded girls and women to flourish.

Frank embraced the Ursuline community wholly and is fondly remembered by all who knew him. We have all been enriched through knowing him.

Thank you Frank.

Maths Department Colleagues and Friends

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