Dear Parents, Carers and Community Members

As we start to close in on the end of the school year, schools do not slow down but become even busier.  We continue to focus on ensuring that learning continues for all students, but also, we are in the midst of planning for 2024.  It is important that students continue to attend school and engage in their learning and participate in school activities that are important in their development. 

Reflection days are one of the important activities that all students in Years 7 - 10 will participate in the last few weeks of the year.  Reflection days provide the opportunity for students to reflect on the past 12 months, develop their understanding of what it means to be a St Clare’s student, improve relationships with staff and fellow peers and most importantly build a sense of community amongst the year group. 

Last Friday we farewelled the graduating Year 12 class of 2023.  It was a very special evening where we celebrated the achievements of all our students.  Throughout the evening stories were shared by students reflecting on their time at St Clare’s.  Participating in important school activities like camps, retreats, reflection days, and St Clare’s feast days to name a few.

 

My wish is that all students participate and share in experiences like reflections days.  The opportunity for personal growth that comes from attending these activities will allow students to reflect on their stories when they graduate, just like the outgoing class of 2023. 

‘Together with Christ we serve our community’.

Inspired by GOSPEL VALUES and the practical examples of St Mary of The Cross MacKillop and St Clare of Assisi our Mission is to…

CONNECT LEARN ASPIRE RESPECT ENGAGE

Kind Regards 

Phillip Gibney
Principal

The digital era has made gambling more accessible, and certain factors are elevating the risk of problematic gambling among young people. A new grey area is emerging, with smartphones at their fingertips blurring the boundaries between gambling and entertainment, especially within the realms of video games and social media. The current generation of young people are growing up in an unprecedented time and research highlights that a significant percentage of adolescents are involved in gambling activities. 

Reports of young people gambling are frequent with many experiencing adverse consequences such as diminished academic performance and strained relationships. Today’s youth are growing up in a digital age characterised by constant connectivity, and the gambling industry has evolved significantly during their formative years. Simulated gambling, such as in video games, can further increase the likelihood of teenagers transitioning to real-money gambling and developing future gambling-related problems. 

It's crucial to foster open discussions about positive media choices to help children navigate through responsible online gaming and gambling. By encouraging a balanced approach to screen time and promoting alternative activities, will help set some clear boundaries to avoid potential gambling-related issues. 

This Special Report provides guidance on how to empower young people to make responsible choices in this digital age. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please consider seeking medical or professional help. 

Link to the special report:

Mass Times

Forster-Tuncurry Catholic Parish

Current Mass times are Saturday, 5 pm, Sunday 8 am and 10 am.

Further updates can be viewed on the Forster-Tuncurry Parish Website:

Taree Catholic Parish

Saturday

4:00 pm Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Wingham:  Reconciliation & Rosary
4:45 pm Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Wingham:  Mass
6:15 pm Our Lady of the Rosary, Taree:  Mass

Sunday

9:30 am Our Lady of the Rosary, Taree:  Mass
7:30 am every 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month Our Lady of Fatima, Old Bar:  Mass
7:30 am every 2^nd Sunday of the month St Therese, Lansdowne:  Mass
7:30 am every 4^th and 5^th Sunday of the month Star of the Sea, Harrington:  Mass

Further updates can be viewed on the Taree Parish Website:

Youth Mass

Youth Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Taree is every 2^nd Sunday of the Month from 9:30 – 10:30 am 

It would be wonderful to see more youth attend and consider reading or doing the offertory during the Mass. 

If anyone is interested in this opportunity, could you please contact Mrs Boere by email at bernadette.boere@mn.catholic.edu.au

Bernadette Boere

2023 Year 12 Special Awards

Reuben F Scarf Award - Tamara Bennett
Ampol Best All Rounder - Matthew Spiteri
Federal Member Community Service Award - Connor Clarke
Australian Defence Force 2023 Long Tan Youth Leadership & Teamwork Award - Darcy Eady-Muxlow
Australian Defence Force 2023 Future Innovators Award - Shifa Saeed
Carol Healey Hospitality Award - Georgia Capes
University of New England Vice-Chancellor’s High Achievement Prize - Georgia Pratten
Taree Universities Campus Go Further Award - Georgia Capes
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Academic Excellence in Year 12 - Mariah Radburn
Mid Coast Connect Vocational Education & Training Award - Adelaide Pullin
Joel Dark Memorial Award - Thomas Watman
St Clare’s High School Academic Excellence Award - Mariah Radburn & Shifa Saeed
St Clare’s High School Diligence Award - Makayla Boere
St Clare’s High School Citizenship Award - Jai Payne
St Clare’s High School Leadership Award - Connor Clarke
St Clare’s High School CLARE Award - Adelaide Pullin
Sportswoman of the Year – Senior School - Saffron Grass
School Captain 2023 - Connor Clarke
School Captain 2023 - Brady Lambert
School Captain 2023 - Mariah Radburn
School Captain 2023 - Karma-Anne Van Der Merwe

Year 12 Semester II Awards – 2023

Chelsea Atkins
1^ST IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
MERIT IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I
1^ST IN PDHPE – ACHPER NSW STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Tamara Bennett
1^ST IN TEXTILES & DESIGN

Makayla Boere
1^ST IN MUSIC 1
2^ND IN PHYSICS
MERIT IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I

Macy Bramble
1^ST IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
1^ST IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES – ACHPER NSW STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Ashleigh Burkill
2^ND IN ENGLISH ADVANCED
2^ND IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I
2^ND IN BIOLOGY
EQUAL 2^ND IN ENGLISH EXTENSION 1
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD

Georgia Capes
EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY (KITCHEN OPERATIONS)

Indiana Christensen
1^ST IN ENGLISH STANDARD
2^ND IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD
2^ND IN STUDIES IN CATHOLIC THOUGHT

Connor Clarke
3^RD IN VISUAL ARTS

Mia Collis
2^ND IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
3^RD IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD
MERIT IN ENGLISH STANDARD
MERIT IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I
MERIT IN BUSINESS STUDIES

Kiara Conway
2^ND IN MUSIC 1
3^RD IN DRAMA

Darcy Eady-Muxlow
1^ST IN PHYSICS

Andrea Flores Cabrejos
1^ST IN VISUAL ARTS
EQUAL 2^ND IN CHEMISTRY
3^RD IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I
MERIT IN BIOLOGY

Rachel Gay
3^RD IN LEGAL STUDIES
3^RD IN ANCIENT HISTORY 

Adelaide Gedge
2^ND IN ANCIENT HISTORY
2^ND IN VISUAL ARTS
EQUAL 2^ND IN ENGLISH EXTENSION 1
1^ST IN JAPANESE BEGINNERS – DIOCESE OF LISMORE – ONLINE EDUCATION

Saffron Grass
2^ND IN ENGLISH STANDARD
3^RD IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION 

Morrison Gray
1^ST IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD
1^ST IN STUDIES OF RELIGION II

Lucy Hallot
1^ST IN LEGAL STUDIES
2^ND IN TEXTILES & DESIGN
MERIT IN ENGLISH STANDARD

William Hogan
1^ST IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER)
EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION

Ella Hudson
1^ST IN STUDIES IN CATHOLIC THOUGHT 

Brady Lambert
EQUAL 1^ST IN DRAMA
MERIT IN ENGLISH ADVANCED

Conor Lawless
1^ST IN MODERN HISTORY
3^RD IN STUDIES OF RELIGION II 

Luella-Rayne McCormack
2^ND IN MODERN HISTORY
MERIT IN ENGLISH ADVANCED
MERIT IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I

Harry Miller
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD
MERIT IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I

Macauley Morris
2^ND IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
3^RD IN BUSINESS STUDIES

Charlotte Nguyen
MERIT IN STUDIES IN CATHOLIC THOUGHT

Jazmine O’Byrne
MERIT IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES

Thomas Parsons
1^ST IN MATHEMATICS EXTENSION 2
1^ST IN MATHEMATICS EXTENSION 1
EQUAL 1^ST IN BUSINESS STUDIES
EQUAL 2^ND IN CHEMISTRY

Ella Parvin
3^RD IN BIOLOGY
3^RD IN TEXTILES & DESIGN
MERIT IN STUDIES OF RELIGION II
MERIT IN CHEMISTRY

Jai Payne
3^RD IN MUSIC 1

Imogen Phillips
3^RD IN MODERN HISTORY 

Georgia Pratten
MERIT IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I 

Adelaide Pullin
2^ND IN ENGLISH STUDIES
EXCELLENCE IN SPORT COACHING

Mariah Radburn
1^ST IN ENGLISH EXTENSION 2
1^ST IN ENGLISH EXTENSION 1
1^ST IN ENGLISH ADVANCED
1^ST IN ANCIENT HISTORY
2^ND IN LEGAL STUDIES
MERIT IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I

Eli Ruff
3^RD IN PHYSICS

Shifa Saeed
1^ST IN MATHEMATICS ADVANCED
1^ST IN STUDIES OF RELIGION I
1^ST IN SCIENCE EXTENSION
1^ST IN CHEMISTRY
1^ST IN BIOLOGY

Matthew Spiteri
EQUAL 1^ST IN BUSINESS STUDIES
2^ND IN STUDIES OF RELIGION II
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Keely Stevens
1^ST IN ENGLISH STUDIES
1^ST IN WORK STUDIES
3^RD IN STUDIES IN CATHOLIC THOUGHT

Josephine Stewart
3^RD IN ENGLISH STANDARD
3^RD IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Sienna Thornton
EQUAL 1^ST IN DRAMA

Madeleine Tilley
MERIT IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES

Karma-Anne Van Der Merwe
3^RD IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER)

Thomas Watman
2^ND IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER) 

Greetings, parents, guardians, and fellow students!  In this edition of our school newsletter, I am excited to shine a spotlight on the impressive work of Year 7HIS3 students as they investigate Ancient Rome's foundation story.  The students have not only unravelled the myth and legend of Romulus and Remus but also showcased their creative storytelling. 

Our Year 7HIS3 students embarked on a fascinating journey as they recounted the foundation story of ancient Rome.  Guided by their history curriculum, students were tasked with reading and annotating two different versions or interpretations of the story.  This exercise not only deepened their understanding of the narrative but also encouraged them to explore various texts. 

Unveiling the Divine Elements 

The foundation story is rich with mythical elements that captivated our young historians.  From the involvement of the god Mars to the divine blood of the twins, the dramatic journey down the Tiber River, the she-wolf's nurturing rescue, and the tragic conclusion of Romulus killing Remus – these elements formed the backbone of their exploration. 

Creative Writing: Stepping into Romulus's Shoes 

After a discussion of the main narrative components, students were challenged to write a first draft.  What made this task unique was the perspective – students were asked to imagine themselves as Romulus, providing a personal touch to their interpretation of the ancient tale. 

Feedback Loop for Continuous Improvement 

Recognising the importance of collaboration and constructive feedback, our Year 7 students engaged in a peer editing and proofreading session.  This not only enhanced the quality of their narratives but also fostered a sense of community and support within the class.  Each student became both a creator and a valuable editor, refining their storytelling skills through this collaborative process. 

Following the peer review, the students handed in their workbooks for additional feedback.  This two-step feedback process, first from peers and then from the teacher, allowed for a comprehensive and constructive evaluation.  The goal was not only to polish the final narrative but also to instil a sense of pride and accomplishment in each student. 

Ready for Real Readers:  Publishing in the School Newsletter 

Now, with their final rewrites in hand, our 7HIS3 students are ready to share their imaginative retellings with a wider audience – you, our readers.  Their narratives showcase not only their grasp of historical events but also their ability to breathe life into stories that have been told for centuries. 

Conclusion:  A Journey of Discovery

Through reading, annotating, writing, and collaborating, they have not only enhanced their historical understanding but also honed their storytelling skills.  We encourage you to dive into their narratives in the following pages and appreciate the creativity and effort they have invested in retelling this timeless tale. 

Congratulations to my budding historians and storytellers in Year 7HIS3! 

Mrs Thomas
Leader of Learning HSIE/LOTE

This year’s Creative Arts Showcase was held in Week 9 of last Term.  The Creative Arts Showcase is an event where we have an opportunity to view the creative talents of the students at St Clare’s High School.  Held in the Josephite Learning Centre, this year’s event was catered for by our Hospitality students, who created and served a range of canapes and desserts to the attendees whilst they enjoyed the artworks and performances throughout the evening. 

Patrons got to enjoy our current Year 11 and 12 Music students perform a range of vocal and instrumental pieces along with entertaining group performances by our Year 11 Drama students. 

Displayed throughout the venue was a range of Visual Arts works created by students from Year 7 through to Year 12.  All visitors to the Creative Arts Showcase had the opportunity to vote for their favourite artwork from each year group.  The winners of the most votes for each year group have received a merit award and a voucher for $50.00 to spend at the local art supply store in Taree, ‘The Edge Gallery and Art Supplies’. 

I wish to extend congratulations to the following students: 

Year 7 – Zee Tulio
Zee produced a reduction lino print that was inspired by the local Aboriginal Biripi totems and the colours of the Aboriginal flag. 

Year 8 – Georgia Hartley
Georgia created an Australian landscape using acrylic paint on canvas.  Georgia’s landscape showed her talent for colour mixing and her ability to achieve perspective and detail within her painting. 

Year 9 – Cathy Su
Cathy produced a forgery artwork using acrylic paint on canvas.  A forgery in art is a copy or replica of another artwork.  Cathy chose to replicate Vincent Van Gogh’s 1888 Impressionist work ‘The Starry Night Over The Rhone’.  Her painting demonstrated immense skill in reproducing the painterly techniques of the Modern masters.

Zee Tulio, Georgia Hartley & Cathy Su                 Ruby Plummer

Year 10 – Rufus Rowe
Throughout the year in Photography and Digital Media, Rufus has been producing a range of photographs across a variety of genres, and it is his attention to detail and his ability to capture an image using the rules of composition that earnt him this year’s award. 

Year 11 – Ruby Plummer
Ruby was most successful in producing a ceramic sculpture using the body as subject matter and working with her chosen theme of nature and entrapment. 

Year 12 – Connor Clarke
Connor’s Body of Work titled ‘Headache’ was a collection of works that consisted of 2 sculptures, 1 slow motion video, 3 A2 sized photographic images and 2 interactive flip books. 

I would like to take this opportunity to invite our St Clare’s community to next year’s Creative Arts Showcase.  Keep an eye out for information posted in the school newsletter.  We encourage you to bring the friends and family along to this most creative event! 

Mrs Rebecca Huett
Creative Arts Leader of Learning

Auditions for ASPIRE 2024 took place at the Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre over four days in October.  Students were invited to audition for Dance, Instrumental, Drama and Vocal. 

Congratulations to the following students who were successful ASPIRE 2024 Auditionees: 

Amiel Camphius (Year 7 2024) – Vocal Ensemble
Shayla Potts (Year 7 2024) – Vocal Ensemble
Mia Langley, Year 9 – Vocal Ensemble
Claire Downie, Year 10 – Senior Drama Ensemble

We look forward to watching you shine on stage in the 2024 ASPIRE production! 

Mrs Rebecca Huett
Creative Arts Leader of Learning

Please support Aiden, Bryce and Lachlan as they try to change the face of men’s health by raising money this MOVEMBER! 

Aiden:

Bryce:

Lachlan:

Callam Howard
Creative Arts Teacher

Martin Luther King Jr said “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t walk then crawl.  But whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”  The Year 10 students at St Clare’s have certainly done that this year.  They have shown the other students in the school community and members of the wider community what seeing a need and responding to that need means in a practical way.  This week Eadie Byrne, Claire Downie, Elise Duckett and Leo Small prepared and served a nutritious meal to the marginalised in the community.  The students also bought smiles to the faces of these people.  Many of the people accessing the kitchen commented on how great it is to see young, happy and friendly faces serving them meals.  The CatholicCare volunteer who assists the students each month expressed that the 2023 Year 10 group has been exceptionally in both their work ethic and their willingness to participate.  Thank you, St Clare’s, for your involvement.

Leo Small, Tanille Gardner, Eadie Byrne, Claire Downie & Elise Duckett 

Tanille Gardner
Community Kitchen Volunteer

Mathematics Workshop and Homework Support takes place on Mondays at lunchtime in room 10.  Students have the opportunity to have support for homework or be in a space with a mathematics teacher present to complete more challenging work or preparing for tasks.  This is available to all year groups.

Michael Morson
Leader of Learning, Mathematics

NSW State Surfing Titles

Jemma Holley placed 2^nd at the NSW State Titles in July in the Under 18 Girls and will now compete at the Australian Titles in Victoria at the end of November.  Jemma has also been selected to represent St Clare's in the All-Stars Division.

Nicole Lovern
Year 10 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement

Diocesan Golf Championship 2023

On Monday, 13 November, three St Clare’s students headed down to Pacific Dunes Golf Course at Medowie to compete in the annual Diocesan Golf Championship:  Rohan Dormor, Year 10 Georgia Sparks, Year 8 and Mac Randall, Year 7.  All three students competed in the Championship event and performed well on the day, achieving the following individual results: 

Georgia Sparks - Female Championship winner.

Rohan Dormor - Male Championship winner in the Year 10/11/12 event.

Georgia Sparks & Rohan Dormor

Thank you to the organising staff for running the event and to the parents who travelled and supported their child throughout the day.  Your continued support is appreciated. 

Luke Rowe
School Sport & Representative Sport Coordinator

Berg Shield Cricket

Congratulations to our Year 7-9 school cricket team, who travelled down to Singleton to compete against St Joseph’s College, Lochinvar in the first round of the Berg Shield T20 Cricket tournament on Friday, 3 November.  The team played with terrific sportsmanship, a great attitude and a healthy competitiveness, with all players thoroughly enjoying the day. 

St Clare’s lost the toss with St Joseph’s opting to bat first.  The St Clare’s opening bowlers troubled the opening batters early with tight line and length bowling, which produced several edges falling just short of fielders or missing the stumps.  St Clare’s thought they had their first wicket when a ball was skied and caught, however the umpire deemed it was an illegal delivery and the batsmen was given not out.  St Clare’s were then made to toil hard in the field as they were subjected to some impressive and belligerent batting from the St Joseph’s opening batsmen, who thwarted the bowling attack to all parts, recording a mammoth 170 run opening stand.  St Clare’s finally captured a wicket in the 19^th over with St Joseph’s eventually closing out their innings with an impressive 193 from their 20 overs. 

St Clare’s batting innings started disastrously, losing two quick wickets in the opening couple of overs.  However, a superb 64 from Henry O’Connell, who was well supported from Cornell Estibeiro, saw St Clare’s build their innings and claw their way back into the match.  However, the consistent loss of wickets throughout the middle overs of the St Clare’s innings stopped any momentum in their run chase.  St Clare’s batted out their 20 overs for 120 runs, resulting in St Joseph’s finishing with a comprehensive victory. 

Lastly, a big thank you to Mr Hart and all players for the way they conducted themselves and for their help and support in the organisation of the day, it was greatly appreciated and help make days like this possible. 

Matthew Collier
Berg Shield Cricket Coordinator

Careers Corner

Here we are at the end of Week 6 – before we know it, it will be Christmas time!

Year 12 Graduation

Last Friday, 10 November saw the 2023 Year 12 Cohort graduate, with a wonderful Award Ceremony at school followed by the Graduation Dinner at the Wining Post Function Centre at the Manning Valley Race Club.  The students looked magnificent and enjoyed the evening.  Thanks to our special guests for taking the time to present some of our special awards.

A huge thanks to Callam Howard who worked tirelessly from the early afternoon with photos on the riverbank all the way through to the end of the dinner at the Winning Post Function Centre.  Everyone should have access to the photos by now.  Thank you Cal! 

Each of the graduands were recognised and received their portfolio with their report, reference and certificates as appropriate. 

Thanks also to Lisa Ruprecht for her organisation, and to Johnathon (Head Chef) for the wonderful meal. 

The tables looked wonderful thanks to Bronwen Davidson (Year 12 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement).

  St Clare's Staff - Year 12 Graduation

University Early Offers/SRS Offers

There are several Year 12 students who have received early offers for university already with more rounds of offers to come over the next few months.

I would like to remind anyone that is applying for EAS via UAC that the due date for all this information is: 

Midnight Thursday 21 November 2023 to ensure you receive your eligibility letter in time to change your preferences for Round 2 

I have already worked with quite a few students regarding this and I am happy to help with anything else.  Students and/or parents can contact me by phone (6552 3300) or by email (karen.mccann@mn.catholic.edu.au) to arrange a suitable time to meet.  This can be via Zoom if necessary. 

Regarding SRS offers, I have included information directly from the UAC website as follows: 

Offers 

Participating institutions can use a range of criteria when making SRS offers, including your: − school’s rating of your aptitudes − Year 11 studies − Educational Access Scheme (EAS) application (if applicable). 

Each institution has its own policies on determining SRS eligibility and making offers.  If your application is successful, you will receive your offer by email in November. 

There are two types of SRS offers: 

• unconditional offers (which have no further criteria for you to meet) and
• conditional offers (which require you to meet additional criteria) 

In November, you can receive one unconditional offer and one or more conditional offers. 

Unconditional Offers 

Accept your unconditional offer, even if it’s for your lowest course preference.  You will automatically be considered for your higher preferences in later rounds.  If you receive an unconditional offer to one of your higher preferences and want to be considered for all your other preferences in later rounds:  accept the offer − log in to your UAC undergraduate application, go to ‘Update Course Preferences’ and move that course down to the bottom of your course preference list or remove it entirely (as long as you have accepted the offer, you can’t lose it). 

Key dates Schools Recommendation Scheme 2023 

• September 18 SRS applications closed
• November 10 First SRS conditional and unconditional offers released
• December 21 Conditional SRS offers converted to unconditional offers
• 2024 January 11 Conditional SRS offers converted to unconditional offers

Schools Recommendation Scheme 03 If you then receive an offer to a course in your new list, you can decide whether to accept it and withdraw from your original course, or not accept the new offer and keep your place in your original course. 

Conditional offers 

To convert your conditional offer to an unconditional offer, you must:  meet the condition/s stipulated in the offer, meet all other institution requirements for that course and include the course in your list of preferences by midnight 15 December 2023 (closing date of change of preference for December Round 2). 

Unsuccessful applicants 

UAC won’t advise applicants who do not receive an offer through SRS.  An unsuccessful SRS application has no effect on your UAC undergraduate application. 

Year 12 Results and ATAR Dates 

2023 NSW HSC students
Thursday 14 December 2023

HSC results released by NESA from 6 am
ATARs released on UAC website from 9 am Thursday, 14 December 2023

Apprenticeships & Traineeships

Over the past weeks, I have received quite a few emails from employers looking for students to fill positions.  Mid Coast Connect and VERTO send me information about apprenticeships and traineeships in our area and MidCoast Council have advertised several positions for 2023.  I have emailed all the information to the students in Years 10, 11 and 12.  So please CHECK YOUR EMAILS. 

I also put the information in the Year Group Careers OneNote which all the students should have access to. 

Regarding some of these positions, any interested students need to come and see me for further information.  That information is in the email if relevant. 

CAA Latest News 

Courses & Workshops for Students 

Do Year 11 Differently - Childcare and Sport GOAL College offers a non-ATAR HSC for students interested in sport and/or childcare (new stream in 2024). There are a few spaces left for Year 11 2024 at the Olympic Park Campus in Basketball, Netball and Childcare. Apply now:

Skillsroad - Career Advice and Free Workshops Skillsroad is the digital space where students get career advice and resources for free. It is a careers platform that helps students discover their inherent skills and choose the career path that is right for them. Check out the "Educators and Advisors" tab at

or have the Skillsroad team visit school. Email Geraldine.Luu@businessnsw.com.

Free Acting Audition Workshop in December Saturday 9 December, 9am to 3pm (BYO lunch) at Drama Studio, JMC Academy, Level 2, 561 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007. Free but must register as places are limited. RSVP to: smclean@jmc.edu.au.  

NSW Police Recruitment for 2024 Basic requirements for becoming a Police Officer; 18 years of age and over, hold a current NSW Drivers Licence – 6 months on Red P’s, Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident, no adult criminal offences or charges and successful completion of the University Certificate in Workforce Essentials (UCWE) course through Charles Sturt University. This 4-week online course is a mandatory academic requirement for all NSW Police Force applicants. The UCWE costs $700 and qualifies for FEE HELP from the Australian Government. Those looking to become a police officer in NSW will receive a financial boost of $30,000 while studying from March 2024. Learn more:

or follow us on social media: Facebook:

Instagram: @nswpf_recruitment_branch or email  recruiting@police.nsw.gov.au.  

Resource to Discover Rail Industry Career Pathways The Work in Rail website

features a job matching tool for career suggestions, information on 80 careers in the rail industry, including pay scale, work environment and training and pathways, and more insights on the rail industry overall. For more information contact workinrail@ara.net.au.

Sydney Actors School - Applications for 2024 Now Open Applications to study at Sydney Actors School in 2024 are open. Study acting for stage and screen, taught by industry-working professionals. Learn how to write, direct, crew, and edit own films. Work on a number of stage productions and short films. Apply here:

Sydney Film School - Applications for 2024 Now Open Applications to study at Sydney Film School in 2024 are open. Classes in all aspects of filmmaking, ranging from screenwriting, to producing, directing, to post-production classes. Build a portfolio with projects from a music video to short films. Apply here:

Beauty Laser and Spa Management Careers in 2024 Start a career in Beauty, Makeup, Laser and Spa Management in 2024. Courses commence every January, April, July and September. Courses run full time, part time or through blended learning options. Register to attend an information session here:

Contact our Careers Adviser amy@aabt.com.au or 0493 450 900.

Australian Pacific College | Diploma of Social Media Marketing Build an exciting career in Social Media Marketing. Learn from experts at APC, gaining skills in strategy, content creation, stakeholder negotiation, managing engagement, and more. Available in Sydney under the smart and skilled program. Apply now:

Medical Interview Training Interview Strategy Day. Learn the strategies needed to succeed in a daylong session with Dr Ray, Consultant Gastroenterologist with over 20 years’ experience in medical interview training. Dates: 19 November, 17 December and 19 February. Second part is the tailored mock interview which is university specific, with feedback.

Engineers Australia Programs | Start Planning 2024 Engineers Australia's high school programs kick off on 1 March 2024 with Discover Engineering, celebrating World Engineering Day. Details regarding all programs available to July 2024, submit an expression of interest; share with students; share with Maths, Science and TAS teachers.

Jump Start a Career in Early Childhood at GOAL College GOAL College has a new Early Childhood Education stream at Olympic Park, starting with Year 11 in 2024. Gain the full Certificate 3 (Early Childhood Education and Care) as part of the HSC. Non-ATAR. Apply now, limited places:

Free UTS Startups Entrepreneurship Workshops Still Open for Weeks 10 and 11 of Term 4 Free 30-60min workshops for Weeks 10 and 11 are still available. These workshops are designed for Year 9-10 students, aiming to spark an interest in entrepreneurship. Participants will engage with young entrepreneurs who share relatable backgrounds, shedding light on their journeys, methods, identity, and how students can kickstart their own paths.

JMC Academy’s Stage Management 1-year Diploma Passionate about theatre, live production, behind the scenes, teamwork and collaboration? heck out JMC Academy’s Stage Management 1-year Diploma. Enrolments being accepted in Sydney now for 2024.

Information Sessions for Students & Parents

Career Conversations at Home | Parent Workshop Arrive & Thrive run parent webinars to support career conversations at home and foster a supportive environment. The webinar includes an introduction to the Chaos Theory, GROW coaching model and Free Career Conversation Dinner Menu, available on the website. To organise a workshop email hello@arrivethive.com.au.

University of Newcastle | Free HSC Seminars for Students and Parents Saturday 18 November, 9:30am to 12:15pm. Learn the secrets of success from Senior HSC markers and counsellors. Designed specifically for students and parents currently in Year 10,11 and 12, these free sessions cover a range of topics to help students achieve their best in 2024. Space is strictly limited so book here:

Beauty Information Evenings Weekly Information evenings held at four Sydney locations at 7pm. Bella Vista, Rockdale, North Strathfield and Sydney CBD. Please register below to come for a tour and to hear all about career opportunities studying Beauty Therapy Dermal and Laser. Contact AABT Careers Adviser: Amy Valenti at amy@aabt.com.au or 0493 450 900.

ATAR Advice Days | Charles Sturt University To coincide with ATARs being released, Charles Sturt will be holding ATAR Advice Days on 14 and 15 December 2023. These days are designed for Year 12 students to come to campus and chat with the Charles Sturt team about their preferences, course information, pathway options and more. To RSVP book here:

CIT Open Day 2023 - Friday 17 November, 2pm to 7pm The Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) Open Day 2023 is on Friday 17 November. This year Open Day activities are being held across three campuses (Bruce, Fyshwick and Reid). Come along to explore the teaching and learning facilities and speak directly with CIT teachers and support staff to learn more about courses and career pathways. Register now:

CQUniversity | Change of Preference Online Chat - Friday 15 December, 9am to 11am (AEST) For Year 12 students who didn’t receive the ATAR they were hoping for or have changed their mind about the course they want to study, CQU is here to help. Students can join the Online Chat and receive guidance on how to change their preferences, alternative entry pathways and find the study options that will lead them to their dream course. Message the team at

University of Sydney | Save the Date for Information Day  - Friday 15 December Students attending will have the opportunity to get personalised course advice before finalising their UAC preferences, along with information sessions and campus tours. This is their chance to experience Sydney.

University of Sydney | Upcoming Webinars for Prospective Undergraduate Students Term 4 webinars: Discover the journey to university, Software engineering at Sydney, Mechanical and mechatronic engineering at Sydney, Pathways to studying law, Diagnostic radiography, and Life in the field: chemistry in action. Find out more and register:

Overseas Service and Internships - 2024 Dates Projects Abroad have finalised 2024 dates for their range of overseas service and experiential learning programs. Placements are for Year 10-12 students, taking place in emerging countries such as Nepal, Cambodia, Tanzania and Peru. Students participate in education, construction, conservation and human rights projects. Details:

Scholarships, Early Entry, Alternative Pathways

First Nations Student Scholarship 2024 Year 11 GOAL College has a full scholarship available for a First Nations student interested in a place in the new Early Childhood Education stream at Olympic Park, starting Year 11 in 2024. Gain the full Certificate III (ECE) as part of the HSC. Apply now limited places:

Government Subsidised Courses Under Smart and Skilled Program APC has Government subsidised courses available under the Smart and Skilled Program in NSW including the Diploma of Social Media Marketing, The Certificate III in Design Fundamentals, The Certificate II in Apparel, Fashion and textiles and the Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping. For more information follow the link:

Worried About an ATAR or Interest in a Pathway to UOW in 2024? Know a student who may be worried about their ATAR? Help them discover their pathway to the University of Wollongong in 2024 through UOW College. Reach out to expert advisers for personalised guidance via email at uowca-future@uow.edu.au or via phone on (02) 42 392 330.

Enabling Courses | Charles Sturt University From 2024, Charles Sturt are making the journey to university that bit easier. CSU have introduced two new enabling courses to get students ready to study an undergraduate degree. The Access Charles Sturt Entry course and the Undergraduate Certificate in University Preparation are ideal options for building the confidence and skills needed. Learn more:

CQUniversity | Scholarships Open Applications for 2024 scholarships are now open. The financial boost can ease the pressure of paying for study materials like textbooks, uniforms, laptops, as well as relocation and living expenses, allowing students to put more energy into their studies. CQU offers scholarships for every study area, study level and citizenship. Check out what scholarships are available at

Bedford College is Now Accepting Scholarship Applications for 2024 Business, early childhood education, aged care, disability, community services. School-based Traineeships available in Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care. Minimum entry requirement is completion of Year 10, no ATAR required. Fees increase 1/12/23, apply before 30 November and pay 2023 prices. Submit application now. Visit

enquire@bedford.edu.au, 1300 174 174.

Job & Work Experience for Students

Work Experience Available in Beauty Work Experience available for aspiring Therapists at four Sydney Academies located in Bella Vista, Rockdale, North Strathfield and Sydney CBD. Enjoy a week of learning about what it is like being a Beauty therapist, makeup artist, or a Laser and Dermal specialist. Contact - Careers Adviser: Amy Valenti at amy@aabt.com.au 0493 450 900.

Cafe Long Track Pantry Jugiong NSW 2024 Gap Year Applications Open. Looking for an adventure in regional NSW? Offering 6 and 12 month gap year placements. Accommodation available with flexible workdays and hours. Apply:

or email careers@longtrackpanty.com.au for more information.

Australian Pacific College | Work Integrated Learning APC's work-integrated learning programs boost employability skills, aligning students with their desired professions. Work Placement is mandatory for select courses, providing invaluable industry experience. ProjectBase offers students extracurricular involvement in real-world projects. Discover more at:

Work and Travel in the USA with Camp America. Camp America allows students to spend 9 -12 weeks working at a summer camp teaching a skill, sport or hobby to children. It is a unique cultural exchange opportunity where students gain skills to add to their CV, including leadership and teamwork. Students can attend Camp America 2024 Job Fairs in January to find out more, meet camps in-person and get hired on the spot. Visit:

Cabinet Making Work Experience ACFA is a registered training organisation providing Certificate III in Cabinet Making (MSF31113) to NSW Apprentices with workplace-based training. Many businesses in the industry are open to hosting work experience so the next generation can get a feel of a career in the cabinet-making industry. Contact

(RTO: 90432).

Change of Preference | Charles Sturt University If Year 12 students need some assistance when it comes to ordering their preferences in UAC, Charles Sturt has made it even easier for them. Visit Charles Sturt's dedicated page for Year 12 students where they'll find helpful guidance around preferences, FAQ's and information on how offers work. See the site here:

Bachelor of Communication Drop-In Sessions | Charles Sturt University If students are interested in a Bachelor of Communication at Charles Sturt and would like to learn more, the Course Director (Roslyn Cox) will be available for drop-in sessions every Thursday from now until 14 December 2023. Students, parents and Career Advisers are welcome to log into the Zoom room between 6-7pm. Find the link here:

Resources for Students

TAFE NSW On-demand Webinars and Podcasts Browse through videos to find out what it is like to study at TAFE NSW and listen to podcasts to hear real life experiences from past and current students. Visit:

Free Career Tool and Report In 45 minutes students create their own Careers Report. The tool can be done using any wifi enabled smart device. Students create a list that suits them, and that they have self-selected. There is also a paid option to view the individual reports online, along with software that ranks the career interests of all students. Register at:

White Card Course

On Wednesday, 6 December we will be hosting a White Card Course here at St Clare’s.  We have two trainers coming from Learning Live to deliver this and at this stage there are 27 students who have expressed an interest in completing this course.  The cost is $139 and we have a couple of spots spare if you would like to do this. 

EVET Courses/SBATs and Work Experience 

We have several students who will be doing EVET courses and SBATs next year.  These provide a great opportunity to discover more about the world of work and get a “leg-in” to work possibilities post school. 

There are still several students doing Work Experience.  If you are interested, please see me to get the paperwork. 

If anyone would like to come and talk about anything to do with post school pathways, please call or email so that we can arrange a time to discuss this. 

Karen McCann
Careers/VET Adviser

Term 4 2023

Term 1 2024