Dear Parents, Students and Staff

The past few weeks have been busy, exciting, and extremely productive for our school community.  Added to our normal learning and teaching we have hosted our Year 12 Trial HSC examinations, a celebration of the Feast of St Clare, several school activities to celebrate NAIDOC Week, School Leader speeches and voting for 2025, a Year 9 2025 Electives information evening, a Respectful Relationships presentation to female students, a Diocesan Athletics Carnival, and a range of excursions/incursions and sporting events.  All these activities have been extremely successful, and a great deal of thanks go to the staff and students who have been involved in making these events run so smoothly. 

Feast of St Clare 

On Friday 23 August we celebrated the Feast of St Clare as a school community.  The day was a wonderful opportunity to learn, to reflect and to celebrate the life of St Clare and the significance of our connection to her as our Patron Saint.  The day was split into three parts with presentations from a variety of guest speakers including the Ignite Youth Ministry team from Brisbane, followed by a celebration of Eucharist with Fr Kevin Corrigan and Deacon Vince Ryan, and concluded with a variety of stalls/activities for students and staff.  A great deal of thanks goes to Mr Koenig and the staff who helped organise and coordinate the day. 

God of Mercy,
You inspired St Clare with the love of poverty.

By the help of her prayers may we follow Christ in poverty of spirit and come to the joyful vision of Your glory in the Kingdom of heaven.

We ask this through Out Lord Jesus Christ Your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

Amen

Year 11 End of Preliminary Year Examinations

All students in Year 11 have just received a copy of the timetable for their upcoming examinations.  These examinations start on Monday 9 September (Week 8).  All students involved in these examinations should now be working hard, revising their work, in preparation for this examination period. 

Staff Spirituality Day 

Monday 16 September (Week 9) will be a pupil free day for all students.  The day will be a Professional Learning day for staff with a focus on Staff Spirituality. 

God bless and best wishes for the coming weeks.

Tony McCudden
Principal

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

5:30 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
4:45 pm Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Wingham:  Mass 

Further updates can be viewed on the Taree Parish Website:

St Clare's High School recently came together to celebrate a significant day in our school calendar - St Clare's Feast Day.  This day is a joyful occasion where we honour our patron saints, St Clare of Assisi and St Mary MacKillop, two extraordinary women whose lives continue to inspire our community. 

In the Catholic tradition, feast days are more than just a time for celebration; they are an opportunity to reflect on the virtues and teachings of the saints.  St Clare of Assisi, known for her deep connection to God, and St Mary MacKillop, who dedicated her life to education and helping those in need, both exemplify the values we strive to live by at St Clare's High School. 

Our Feast Day celebrations began with speakers from Ignite, Deacon Vince Ryan and Mrs Carol Healey who detailed their Catholic faith and how it inspires them to change the world.  Students engaged in making a Decade Ring out of beads, reflective of St Clare’s dedication to prayer and her faith.  We gathered as a community to celebrate Mass, where our community reflected on the theme of "light."  The light provided by St Clare and St Mary guides us, not only as individuals but as a collective, towards serving others and living out our faith.  The Mass was a powerful reminder of the strength and unity found within our school community. 

Following the Mass, the school grounds were alive with energy as students and staff participated in various activities and visited stalls run by our CLARE groups.  These stalls were not just about fun and games; they were an opportunity for us to put our mission into action - "Together with Christ, we serve our community."  All proceeds from the day went towards our Mary MacKillop Fund, which provides support to those in need within our school community.  We are proud to announce that we raised an impressive $1,400, a testament to the generosity and spirit of our students and staff. 

St Clare's Feast Day was filled with excitement, joy, and a strong sense of community.  It was a day where we not only celebrated our shared faith but also reinforced our commitment to serving others.  Through the example of St Clare and St Mary MacKillop, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, service, and living out our faith in our everyday lives.  As we continue to grow as a community, may we always strive to keep their light burning brightly in our hearts. 

Tanille Gardner
Leader of Learning - Religious Education 

On 8 August, our Year 7 students had the unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith by visiting Our Lady of the Rosary, our local parish church.  This excursion was a valuable extension of their Religious Studies Unit, Faith in Practice, allowing them to explore firsthand the key symbols and imagery that play a crucial role in Catholic worship.  This visit to the church was not just a field trip; it was an important step in the students' journey of faith, helping them to see how the teachings of the Catholic Church are lived out in practice every day. 

The visit began with a warm welcome from Fr Kevin Corrigan, who guided the students through the sacred spaces of the church.  He explained the significance of communal worship in the life of the Church, emphasising how gathering together strengthens our faith and connects us as a community. 

As the students moved through the church, they engaged in a detailed exploration of the various symbols and icons that are central to Catholic worship.  They completed a worksheet that focused on key elements such as the Tabernacle, Altar, Ambo, Stations of the Cross, Crucifix, Baptismal Font, and Paschal Candle.  Each of these elements were discussed in relation to their significance in the liturgy and the broader context of Catholic faith. 

The students were also given the chance to learn more about the history and architecture of Our Lady of the Rosary Church and the symbolism associated, such as the 14 steps that lead up to the Church to symbolise the 14 Stations of the Cross.  This hands-on experience allowed them to connect their classroom learning with real-life practice, making their studies more meaningful and relevant. 

Throughout the visit, the students were encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions with Fr Kevin and their teachers.  This interactive approach not only deepened their understanding but also fostered a sense of curiosity and reverence for the traditions of the Church.  We extend our heartfelt thanks to the teachers, Mrs Denise Ryan, Mr David Hutchison, Mrs Rebecca Huett, Mrs Lyndall Laurie, Mrs Bernadette Boere and Mr Simon Basile, who supported this enriching excursion.  Their dedication and effort made this experience both educational and spiritually uplifting for our Year 7 cohort. 

Tanille Gardner
Leader of Learning - Religious Education 

Congratulations to our high potential students who participated in the Australian Mathematics Trust Mathematics Challenge earlier this year. 

The results were as follows: 

Junior Mathematics Challenge
Back Row:  Adele Whitehouse-Miotto, Christian Botros, Jackson Paine, Oscar Yeates, Jatan Phirangi, Jacob Ellison & Jaylah Koenig
Front Row:  Joshua Matta, Michael Bonanno, Zee Tulio & Beau Vaughan 

Intermediate Mathematics Challenge
Oliver Collins & Jake Guppy (Absent Ben Cooper, Flynn Small & Sienna Waterhouse) 

We are extremely proud of the effort these students have made in attempting to solve higher order problems using their outstanding mathematical skills.  Not only did our students achieve excellent results, but they also further developed their learning and collaboration skills, built new friendships, and reinforced their understanding of the beauty of mathematics.

 Special congratulations go to Michael Bonanno, Beau Vaughan, Oscar Yeates and Oliver Collins for their exceptional achievement. 

High Distinction
Oscar Yeates, Oliver Collins, Beau Vaughan & Michael Bonanno 

Julie Rowsell
Gifted Education Mentor

Four of our High Potential students, Rory Byrne, Gemma Eady-Muxlow, Kaeden Gonzalez and Elise Zammit were invited to attend the 2024 Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Student Festival at the University of Newcastle on 27 August. 

This program offered them a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and innovation.  The University of Newcastle hosts over 1,500 HDR students who are making significant contributions to solving some of the world's most pressing challenges.  The HDR Student Festival showcases the excellence and innovation of these students through various conference-style activities within each School and across the University. 

The festival provides a platform for students to build and practice their presentation skills and raise their profiles within the academic community.  Throughout the day, these students will attend presentations and tours alongside university academics, Honours students, and researchers.  The activities for their day included: 

• Three Minute Thesis Heats, School of Engineering
• Display of Architecture Creative Works, School of Architecture and Built Environment
• 5-minute seminar presentations on current research, School Engineering
• Doctoral Training Centres (DTCs) and Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) Research Tours
• Poster sessions, School of Information and Physical Sciences 

Rory Byrne, Elise Zammit, Gemma Eady-Muxlow & Kaeden Gonzalez 

Congratulations to Rory, Gemma, Kaeden and Elise on their selection to participate in this amazing program. 

Julie Rowsell
Gifted Education Mentor

We are thrilled to announce that two more of our students have been selected to participate in the Virtual Academy.  This online learning opportunity is designed to connect high potential and gifted students with like-minded peers, offering them a platform to explore conceptual-based topics and drive their interests through research and real-world inquiry. 

The Virtual Academy is a testament to our commitment to academic excellence and providing opportunities to foster the growth and development of our students.  We are proud to recognise and celebrate the individual strengths of our students through programs like this. 

Michael Bonanno and Beau Vaughan

Please join us in congratulating Michael Bonanno (Year 7) and Beau Vaughan (Year 7) on their selection to the Virtual Academy. 

They will join our current Virtual Academy students Jaylah Koenig (Year 8) and Tristan Ma (Year 7) in this outstanding program. 

We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to witnessing the remarkable contributions they will make through this program. 

Congratulations to all! 

Julie Rowsell
Gifted Education Mentor

Congratulations to our 2024 HSC Industrial Technology Timber & Metal students who have successfully submitted their HSC Major Projects. 

HSC IT Metal students and Projects

Savannah Murray – Ceremonial Arbour
Fynn Oades – Buggy Frame
Lachlan Guymer – Coffee Table
Pippa Guppy – Garden Ornament 

HSC IT Timber students and Projects

Megan Pieschel – Wine Cabinet
Mason Polidano – Single Spine Chair
Alfie Gibbin – Chess Board 

Bradley Hart
Leader of Learning – Technology and Applied Studies

Sunday, 4 August, saw 88 excited Year 9 students begin the adventure to Canberra and the Snowy Mountains.  During the week ahead many memories and stories were made that will stay with the students for a long time. 

After a long drive on Sunday, the students had the experience of a closed session at Questacon the National Museum of Science, Technology and Innovation and had fun exploring interactive exhibits such as the Free Fall and Earthquake Room exhibits.

On Monday, students participated in tours exploring and acknowledging the importance of Parliament House and the War Memorial.  Interestingly for these young adults, they undertook a preferential election enactment at the Electoral Education Centre, which was very relevant for these young people who will be voting in the next few years. 

Tuesday, saw the students first day of action on the slopes! 

After a 5 am start, most students experienced snow for the first time and had fun learning how to ski.  This early start was repeated for three days (who would have thought the students would be so grateful for a 5:45 am sleep-in on the last day!) 

This year, the trip was blessed with three perfect days of weather which made skiing all that more enjoyable and early morning lessons allowed the students to adventure with each other all day.  The days were filled with many rides on the chairlift, T-Bar, practising their snowplough and crashes following attempted jumps.  The more advanced skiers enjoyed skiing in Perisher and Blue Cow and the less capable enjoyed their underground train ride to Blue Cow.  Thankfully all students remained injury free and rose to the challenge, demonstrated their resilience, harnessing their determination to tackle the mountain over the three days. 

I would like to acknowledge the group’s positive attitude and behaviour on the trip.  It was wonderful to hear so many were supportive, kind and caring towards each other during the trip.  I would like to thank the dedicated team of teachers who looked after Year 9 during their time away and supported me in this adventure.  A huge thank you to Mrs Parvin, Mr Hanlon, Mr Hobbes, Mr Hart, Miss Rayne, Mrs Basile and Mr De Somma. 

Mr Carney
Excursion Coordinator

Lincoln Andersen
EQUAL 1^ST IN FOOD TECHNOLOGY 

Stevie Anderson
EQUAL 1^ST IN FOOD TECHNOLOGY
MERIT IN CHILD STUDIES

Aidan Armitage
EQUAL 1^ST IN VISUAL ARTS
MERIT IN ENGLISH

Piper Bamford
MERIT IN CHILD STUDIES 

Ewen Barry
3^RD IN 9-4 HISTORY 

Emily Boere
MERIT IN VISUAL ARTS 

Taylor Brown
MERIT IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER 1) 

Portia Chaplin-Ferguson
3^RD IN 9-1 GEOGRAPHY 

Oliver Collins
2^ND IN COMMERCE
MERIT IN ENGLISH
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS PATHWAY 3
MERIT IN SCIENCE
MERIT IN DRAMA 

Kalani Collis
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
MERIT IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & SPORTS STUDIES 

Charlotte Cooper
2^ND IN PHOTOGRAPHIC & DIGITAL MEDIA
MERIT IN SCIENCE 

Marla Coulton-Donnelly
1^ST IN PHOTOGRAPHIC & DIGITAL MEDIA
EQUAL 1^ST IN ABORIGINAL STUDIES 

Pyper Cross
1^ST IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER 2)
EXCELLENCE IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
MERIT IN ENGLISH
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION 

Oscar Davy
EXCELLENCE IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
MERIT IN ENGLISH
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
MERIT IN PHOTOGRAPHIC & DIGITAL MEDIA 

Thomas Davy
2^ND IN 9-3 GEOGRAPHY
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS
MERIT IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & SPORTS STUDIES
MERIT IN PHOTOGRAPHIC & DIGITAL MEDIA 

Riley Donovan
1^ST IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & SPORTS STUDIES 

Stuart Drysdale
1^ST IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (METAL) 

Lilah Earley
MERIT IN CHILD STUDIES 

Calista Elmer
2^ND IN 9-4 HISTORY 

Cameron Ford
2^ND IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER 2)
EXCELLENCE IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
MERIT IN ENGLISH
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS 

Mya Ford
EQUAL 2^ND IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER 1) 

Bailey Furze
1^ST IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER 1) 

Callie Gillard
3^RD IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER 2)
MERIT IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & SPORTS STUDIES 

Alice Godfrey
1^ST IN 9-4 HISTORY
MERIT IN ENGLISH
MERIT IN SCIENCE 

Brady Gogerly
EQUAL 2^ND IN 9-2 HISTORY
MERIT IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER 2) 

Sofia Gonzalez
EQUAL 2^ND IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & SPORTS STUDIES 

Jake Guppy
EQUAL 1^ST IN DRAMA
2^ND IN MATHEMATICS
EQUAL 3^RD IN COMMERCE
MERIT IN SCIENCE 

Hayley Harris
EQUAL 1^ST IN FOOD TECHNOLOGY 

Georgia Hartley
EQUAL 2^ND IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER 1)
EQUAL 3^RD IN MATHEMATICS
MERIT IN ENGLISH
MERIT IN SCIENCE
MERIT IN VISUAL ARTS 

Lachlan Henshaw
MERIT IN PHOTOGRAPHIC & DIGITAL MEDIA 

Shiloh Herzberg Nicholls
1^ST IN ENGLISH
EQUAL 1^ST IN VISUAL ARTS
2^ND IN SCIENCE
EXCELLENCE IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS 

Addison Hogan
1^ST IN CHILD STUDIES
MERIT IN ENGLISH 

Toby Holley
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS 

Annabelle Johnson
EQUAL 3^RD IN CHILD STUDIES
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
MERIT IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & SPORTS STUDIES

Hamish Kemp
MERIT IN ENGLISH
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS 

Riley Kinkade
1^ST IN 9-3 GEOGRAPHY
2^ND IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (ENGINEERING)
3^RD IN SCIENCE
MERIT IN ENGLISH
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Lin Zhao LimSchneider
1^ST IN MATHEMATICS
1^ST IN SCIENCE
1^ST IN 9-1 GEOGRAPHY
EQUAL 1^ST IN DRAMA
2^ND IN ENGLISH
EXCELLENCE IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES 

Kartia Matonhodze
MERIT IN CHILD STUDIES 

Kirsty-Lee Merrick
1^ST IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (ENGINEERING)
2^ND IN 9-1 GEOGRAPHY
EQUAL 3^RD IN COMMERCE
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Lucy Millard
EQUAL 3^RD IN CHILD STUDIES

Abby Moelker
3^RD IN 9-3 GEOGRAPHY 

Liam Morris
3^RD IN 9-5 GEOGRAPHY 

Tiffany Nguyen
MERIT IN ENGLISH 

Darcey Oades
EQUAL 1^ST IN ABORIGINAL STUDIES 

Aidan O’Byrne
EQUAL 2^ND IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & SPORTS STUDIES
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS 

Henry O’Connell
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS
MERIT IN SCIENCE 

Ronan O’Riley
2^ND IN 9-5 GEOGRAPHY
EQUAL 2^ND IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (METAL) 

Gemma Paulin
MERIT IN ENGLISH
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS
MERIT IN PHOTOGRAPHIC & DIGITAL MEDIA 

Charlee Pinto
EQUAL 1^ST IN VISUAL ARTS 

Olivia Plant
2^ND IN CHILD STUDIES
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS 

Sophie Scislo
EQUAL 2^ND IN 9-2 HISTORY

Leonel Senson
1^ST IN 9-5 GEOGRAPHY
MERIT IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (ENGINEERING) 

Samuel Stephens
3^RD IN PHOTOGRAPHIC & DIGITAL MEDIA

Nash Syron
3^RD IN ABORIGINAL STUDIES
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION 

Joshua Thomson
3^RD IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (ENGINEERING)
EQUAL 3^RD IN MATHEMATICS
MERIT IN SCIENCE 

Cade Van Ewyk-Campbell
EQUAL 2^ND IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (METAL)
MERIT IN PHOTOGRAPHIC & DIGITAL MEDIA 

Sienna Waterhouse
3^RD IN ENGLISH
EXCELLENCE IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Declan White
EQUAL 2^ND IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (METAL) 

Rylee Wicks
EQUAL 1^ST IN DRAMA 

Augustus Wilkes
1^ST IN COMMERCE
1^ST IN 9-2 HISTORY

Our indigenous students were treated to a dynamic eco-science presentation by guest Philip Green.  He gave students a visual and tactile experience of traditional technologies used by indigenous peoples across the varied environments of Australia’s deserts, mountains, rivers and seashores. 

Philip Green had a large collection of museum-quality artefacts which were given out in multiple touch-boxes for students to examine and handle.  A National Geographic photographer, Philip used his stunning photos in an audio-visual presentation of the native plants and wildlife used for food, clothing, medicine, shelter, weapons and art. 

Philip has visited or lived with indigenous communities in North and Central America, New Zealand and Australia.  In his eco-safaris across Australia, Philip has visited with local Aborigines living in Kakadu wetlands, outback deserts, inland river systems and mountain forests.  He has collected artefacts and inspected Aboriginal sites in every Australian state.  These experiences have inspired him to produce a cultural show that gives students the opportunity to connect hands-on with the survival technologies of Australia’s First People. 

Robin Davies
Aboriginal Education Worker

Students Nyoka Syron, Marla Coulton-Donnelly, Noel Saunders and Kaleb Ryan were invited to enjoy 2024 Walkabout experience.  These students were nominated due to excellent school attendance and being great representatives of St Clare’s.  They spent three days in June in Newcastle and Sydney where they took part in various activities thanks to Biripi ACMC. 

Noel Saunders, Kaleb Ryan, Marla Coulton-Donnelly & Nyoka Syron 

Activities included Ice Skating, Walkabout Barber, Luna Park, Rugby League Match to see Rabbitohs vs Broncos at Accor Stadium in a Corporate Suite and a Walkabout Wellbeing Session. 

The students had a great time. 

Such a great opportunity! 

Robin Davies
Aboriginal Education Worker

A wise person once said, “You have to get out of your comfort zone in order to grow.”  This is so true as we can choose to sit back and not take the opportunity to grow emotionally or we can step outside our comfort zone as the Year 10 students, Mia Diamond, James Grehan, Aiden Miles and Violet Miller together with Mrs Ryan, did when they volunteered at the Community Kitchen.  Despite the rain they served 100 meals to the needy in our community.  They also had time to organise shelves, prepare egg cartons and bag Weet Bix for distribution to the clients.  As a volunteer I thank the students for the extra jobs they did as it frees up our time and enables us to do additional cooking.  The meals the students prepared were nutritious and gratefully received by the clients.  Their cheery smiles and interaction with the clients were commendable.  Thank you, St Clare’s, for your involvement. 

Carol Healey
Catholic Care Volunteer

Mathematics Workshop and Homework Support takes place on Tuesdays at lunchtime in Room 115.  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

Pickleball 

Any students looking to join a club or further their skills in the game of Pickleball please see Mr Rowe for further details. 

Luke Rowe
Leader of Learning - Sport 

Diocesan Athletics Championships 

On Wednesday 21 August the St Clare’s Athletics team of 34 students travelled down to Glendale Athletics Track to compete in the annual Diocesan Athletics Championships.  Students performed well with some great individual results on the day. Well done to the students below that made the trip and competed on the day: 

Christian Botros, Zane Brown, Amiel Camphuis, Khloe Catalan, Sansita Edaggotti, Selina Gordon, Zane Kesby, Jessica Richardson, Eva Sansom, Lachlan Stephens, Milla Thompson, Grace Zarate, Hamish Anderson, Leo Beckton, Triston Brody, Annabelle Laurence, Jakayla Minns, Kobi Patterson, Tahleah Van Kampen, Darcey Oades, Samuel Stephens, Cade Van Ewyk-Campbell, Mya Ford, Charlotte Andrews, Kannika Broadbent, Mitchell Hardy, Adele Whitehouse-Miotto, Matthew Clements, Ashley Allan, Flynn Small, Liam Rodgers, Phryne Rowe, Adam Russell, Jay Lee, Gemma Eady-Muxlow. 

Thank you to Mrs Karen McCann, Mr Michael Morson, and Mr Ed McCann for assisting the school team and running events and all the parents who travelled and supported the students throughout the day.  Your continued support is appreciated. 

CCC Athletics selections 

Following the Diocesan Athletics event, the team to represent the Diocese at the NSWCCC Athletics Championship was selected.  St Clare’s students who have been selected to compete at the NSWCCC Athletics Championships to be held on Monday September 16 are: 

Cade Van Ewyk-Campbell who was selected in the 15 years boys Discus and Javelin. 

Congratulations Cade.  

Luke Rowe
Leader of Learning - Sport

All Schools Touch State Finals 

On 13 August, Penrith was host to the NSW All Schools Touch Football State Finals, where St Clare's High School proudly competed with two teams—the Year 7/8 Girls and Year 9/10 Girls. Throughout the day, both teams faced intense competition, showcasing their dedication, skill, and teamwork against some of the toughest opponents in the state. 

Year 7/8 Girls Touch Team 

The Year 7/8 Girls team kicked off their campaign with a thrilling match against Mt St Benedict College, who would eventually finish as the tournament’s runners-up.  The game was a nail-biter from start to finish, with both teams showing exceptional defensive and offensive plays.  Mt St Benedict took an early lead, but St Clare’s quickly responded, making it a 2-2 draw by the final whistle. 

In Round 2, St Clare's faced Macquarie Anglican Grammar School in another tightly contested match.  The game was a defensive masterclass, with both sides struggling to break through each other’s lines.  Despite several close calls, the match ended in a 1-1 draw, reflecting the evenly matched nature of both teams. 

Round 3 brought a challenging encounter against Ulladulla, where the St Clare's girls faced one of their toughest opponents yet.  The match was characterised by strong defensive strategies on both sides.  Ulladulla managed to edge out a 1-0 victory with a late try, but St Clare's fought hard until the very end, displaying a never-give-up attitude that earned them the respect of their opponents. 

Undeterred by the previous loss, St Clare’s came out with renewed energy in Round 4 against William Clarke College.  This game was a testament to the team’s offensive capabilities, as they dominated the field with a stunning 9-1 victory.  The girls moved the ball with precision and flair, overwhelming their opponents and boosting their confidence as they headed into the final rounds of the tournament. 

In Round 5, the Year 7/8 girls continued their winning streak with a solid 4-2 win over St Mary's Catholic School.  The match was more closely contested than the scoreline might suggest, with St Clare’s pulling ahead late in the game through a combination of quick passing and sharp finishing.  The team's ability to adapt and capitalise on opportunities was on full display. 

The final round saw St Clare's go head-to-head with St Peter's Anglican Grammar in a tense and highly competitive match.  Both teams were determined to end the day on a high note, leading to a fast-paced and physically demanding game.  Despite St Clare’s best efforts, St Peter’s secured a narrow 2-1 victory.  Nevertheless, the Year 7/8 girls finished the day with their heads held high, having shown remarkable progress and teamwork throughout the tournament. 

7/8 Girls Touch Team
Back Row (L-R):  Milla Thompson, Lanae Rutledge, Eva Sansom, Beth Harris, Calli Hammond, Zarlie McDermott, Jarrah Ingram and Brooklyn Williams
Back Row (L-R):  Stella O’Connor, Eva De Bono, Jess Uwland, Jayda Theophanous

Year 9/10 Girls Touch Team 

The Year 9/10 Girls team began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against St Johns College in Round 1.  The match was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams creating several scoring opportunities.  St Clare’s managed to equalise late in the game, demonstrating their tenacity and ability to perform under pressure. 

Round 2 presented a daunting challenge against Hunter Sports High School, the eventual State Champions.  The match was a true test of skill and determination, with St Clare's pushing the champions to their limits.  Despite a valiant effort, St Clare’s narrowly lost 3-2, but the game was a highlight of the tournament, showcasing the team's potential to compete with the very best in the state. 

In Round 3, the Year 9/10 girls bounced back with a commanding 5-2 victory over Kildare Catholic College.  The team played with confidence and cohesion, executing their game plan to perfection.  Their passing was crisp, and their defensive coordination was spot-on, allowing them to control the tempo of the game and secure a well-deserved win. 

The momentum continued into Round 4, where St Clare's faced off against Mt St Benedict College.  The girls displayed great chemistry on the field, combining swift attacks with solid defensive play to secure a 4-2 victory.  The win was a testament to their growing confidence and cohesion as a team, as they outmanoeuvred their opponents and capitalised on every scoring opportunity. 

Round 5 was a closely contested match against Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School.  Both teams fought hard, but Lindisfarne managed to edge out a 1-0 win with a decisive try.  St Clare’s played with heart and determination, keeping the game close and showcasing their ability to adapt to different playing styles.  Although the result didn’t go their way, the team’s effort was commendable. 

The final round saw St Clare’s taking on SCEGGS Darlinghurst in what turned out to be a thrilling 2-2 draw.  The match was a fitting end to a day of intense competition, with both teams giving their all in a fast-paced, high-energy game.  St Clare’s showed resilience, fighting back from a deficit to earn a draw and finish the tournament on a positive note. 

Back Row (L-R):  Ruby McNeil, Lucy Millard, Molly Trotter, Marley Brown, Pyper Cross & Taylor Brown
Back Row (L-R): Miller Morrissey, Ruby Polson, Georgie O’Connor & Sara Harris 

Lastly, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mrs Jane Polson, Mrs Rebecca Harris and Mrs Marian Parvin for their invaluable contributions to our teams.  Their unwavering commitment, dedication, and support in training, coaching, and mentoring our players were instrumental in their success.  Without their exceptional and tireless efforts, events like this would not have been possible. 

Matt Collier
State Touch Coordinator

NSW Schools Netball Cup 

The St Clare’s 7/8 Boys and Girls Netball teams participated in the NSW Schools Cup held in Port Macquarie on Thursday, 8 August.  The event, marked by clear skies and warm weather, provided an excellent setting for both competition and camaraderie.  They played teams from all over our region, Forster, Gloucester, Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Coffs Harbour.  While both teams experienced wins and losses, the day was a resounding success in terms of skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship. 

 

The team's performance throughout the day showcased their growing netball skills and determination.  Out of the series of matches, they achieved notable victories in several games, demonstrating their ability to apply strategies and work cohesively under pressure.   However, the competition was intense, and the teams faced several tight matches where the outcomes did not fall in their favour. Despite facing some tough competition, the team's determination never wavered.  They demonstrated a commendable level of perseverance, maintaining focus and effort throughout the day. 

The essence of teamwork was a highlight of the day.  The players supported each other both on and off the court, fostering a positive and encouraging atmosphere.  This spirit was not only visible in their interactions but also in their collective resilience during challenging matches.  Both the boy’s and girl’s teams showcased enthusiasm for one another, displaying sportsmanship and community spirit. 

Overall, the Gala Day was a fantastic opportunity for growth and enjoyment.  Everyone can take pride in their accomplishments and look forward to building on this experience in future games.  The companionship and enthusiasm shown throughout the day are testaments to their dedication and love for the sport. 

Kaneana May
Netball Coordinator

St Clare's 2008 Vice-Captain, Luke Murray, continues his running adventures as evidenced by his successes in the 2024 Forster RunFest.  He was placed 8^th in the Half Marathon, 15^th in the 10km and 23^rd in the 5 km races; however, each of these races are held one after the other.  His combined times over the three events, the Beach Bums Treble, saw him placed 6^th.  While achieving this, he also coordinated participation by students from Wingham Public School where he teaches. 

Ian Evans
Casual Teacher 

Careers Corner 

The end of Week 6 – four weeks to go until the end of classes for Year 12 and the end of the Preliminary Course for Year11. 

Year 12 have now completed their Trial Exams – well done to everyone!  The various major works are in the process of being marked over the coming weeks – good luck to everyone. 

TVET Applications for 2025 are due today, Friday, 30 August 2024.  All students have been emailed and a notification has been placed on Compass. 

There are a great deal of university open days, early entry pathways and employment opportunities coming up over the next few weeks.  Scholarships for many universities are open and in the process of opening. 

Please see below re Teach NSW Scholarships.  Applications for these close Friday 13 September via Get paid to study (nsw.gov.au).

InspirationED Presentation 

On Thursday last week we were very lucky to be visited by Shane Hardcastle from InspirationED who spoke to the students about successful exam preparation techniques.  The feedback I have received has been very positive.  Shane’s presentation was excellent, and I would like to thank him, and Claudia and Alice who spoke to the students about university post school pathways (specifically Macquarie University). 

Shane has also provided the students with a link to helpful resources in six HSC subject areas.  This has been emailed to the students and is included below: 

For your Year 11 students, as discussed, we would like to provide additional premium academic support in six Year 11 subjects.  Please share this information below with them or the link that is:

Information for Students 

As part of the presentations, you attended with InspirationED & Macquarie University, you have access to premium resources in the following subjects:  English (Standard & Advanced), Mathematics (Standard 2 & Advanced), Biology & Business Studies.  

They include practice questions and other resources to help you prepare for your exams at the end of the term. 

Just click here to access these resources. 

UAC 

For those students applying to UAC please see the important dates below: 

Key UAC Dates 

Early entry deadlines for many universities are also fast approaching. UNE, Southern Cross, Wollongong and the Sunshine Coast University all offer these programs so please have a look at these.  Even if it is not your first choice, it can give you some options if you do not get into the course you want straight away. 

It has been very pleasing to have had interviews with many of the Year 12 students.  Please do not hesitate to contact me to arrange a meeting so that we can go through your options. 

Our local councils have information sessions for anyone interested in an apprenticeship or traineeship with their local council.  Please see the information below and the flyer for these is in our Careers Team OneNote. 

I will be organising a White Card course for Term 4.  Any student who is hoping to do Construction in Year 11 must complete this course and any student who wishes to do Work Experience in the Construction industry will need a White Card.  In order to complete the White Card course a student has to have turned 14 by the time the course is run.  Stay tuned for more details.

Careers Association of Australia (CAA)

The latest information from the Careers Association of Australia (CAA) is as follows:

Information Sessions for Students & Parents 

MQ Year 12 Webinar | Transitioning from School to University Wednesday 11 September Macquarie University students will share insights and provide tips and tricks on how to make the transition to university smooth and fun. Learn about university life and hear about MQ’s extensive range of support services, which all exist to help students thrive during their studies. Register at:

Macquarie University’s 2024 [[Ex]]plore Science Extension Conference [[EX]]plore is a new Science Extension conference for Years 10, 11 and 12 students and teachers. Year 12 Science Extension students are invited to present their research at a conference that brings together people with a passion for research. Find more here:

Sydney Design School Information Session | Tuesday 17 September, 6pm Curious about interior design? Sydney Design School is running an on campus Information Session on Tuesday 17 September at 6pm. Join them at their state of the art studios, Ground Floor, 65 Berry St, North Sydney. Register to attend in person or join online at

The next intake for their ASQA accredited career qualifications is January 2025. RTO91446.

Discover Western Webinar ‘Finding Your Place at Western’ Join Western on Tuesday 17 September, 5pm for 'Finding Your Place at Western', a webinar designed for future university students who may feel unsure about pursuing higher education. This webinar will showcase a range of personal and academic support services, clubs and societies, LGBTQ+ Ally Network, and other resources available to students. Register now:

The University of Sydney | Online Open Night - Explore Career Pathways & Network with Experts Domestic students living in regional or interstate areas are invited to The University of Sydney online Open Night. Find out about Regional and Remote Entry Scheme, single scholarship application process and other University of Sydney highlights then join breakout rooms and have all questions answered by USYD staff. Thursday 19 September | 5 to 6:30pm AEST, register here:

Apprenticeships/Training and Jobs Expos 2024 Master Builders Association of NSW will be at the Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expos 2024. This is the perfect opportunity for students, parents, and job seekers to speak with Master Builders about career pathways in the Building and Construction Industry. This is a free event. Great careers start with apprenticeships.

Western University’s Free HSC Study Sessions Register now for Western’s free HSC Study Sessions from Monday 30 September to Friday 4 October. Students can choose from a range of 24 free sessions across 15 key HSC subject areas. Sessions are delivered online with highly qualified HSC teachers and experienced markers. Register now:

Courses & Workshops for Students

Sydney Design School Interior Decoration Workshop 2 & 3 October In the mood to get creative? Sydney Design School is running their two-day Interior Decoration Workshop 2 & 3 October at their design studios. Experiment with colour and materials to redesign a living space. Ground Floor, 65 Berry St, North Sydney. $385 including GST. Book online

UCAT NIE | Medical School Entry Interview Preparation Years 10 to 12 considering a career in Medicine or Dentistry. Start the medical interview preparation early. NIE August workshop dates are nearly full. To register please visit

For further enquiries please contact NIE at enquiries@nie.edu.au or call (02) 4367 0404 / 0404 197 178 /

Career Conversations at Home | Parent Workshop with Arrive & Thrive Career conversations at home are vital for young people to make informed decisions about what they want to pursue post-high school. Arrive & Thrive runs a parent webinar to support career conversations at home and foster a supportive environment. The webinar includes an introduction to the GROW coaching model and Free Career Conversation Dinner Menu. Email hello@arrivethive.com.au for details.

Experience Engineering for Female and Non-Binary Students in Years 7 to 10 | 18 October at UNSW Second for 2024 will be held at UNSW Kensington Campus. An exciting day designed to build students’ confidence by working alongside Engineers and Engineering students to solve set tasks. Aiming to build an understanding that by using their maths and science knowhow, with a good dose of creative and strategic thinking, they can make real change in their world. Register:

Achieving Career Success with Futuready Australia Futuready Australia, after assisting over 10,000 students and 40+ Career Advisers, found three key insights: Teachers lack time to research numerous career options; students need a unified program with all necessary tools; and both groups struggle to prepare for the future. Futuready curriculum-based programs help students pursue careers they are passionate about.

J.P. Morgan | Traineeship Program for Current Year 12 Students with HSC Certification by Early 2025 This 2-year full-time paid traineeship in Sydney will provide an opportunity for students to fast track a career and gain real world work experience within an international bank. Join J.P. Morgan’s Traineeship Program and experience the excitement of working in the fast-paced financial services industry. Learn how a 2-year Traineeship can give real-world skillsets while providing tools of the future:

NIE CAREERS | Future Doctors Australia Program (Age: 14-18) On 12 to 15 April 2025, a high-impact 4-day program that provides young people aged 14 to 18 years with a unique opportunity to explore medicine as a career. TEL. 1300 974 187 or 0412 439 115 enquiries@nie.edu.au Program details via the link:

NIE CAREERS | Medicine, Engineering, Business, Creative Writing, Psychology, Veterinary Studies A unique opportunity to experience 11 Days of Residential Career Program, 5 to 15 January 2025 at the University of Sydney, for students 13 to 18 years of age. TEL. 1300 974 187 or 0412 439 115 enquiries@nie.edu.au Details via the link:

University of Canberra Sydney Hills' Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five) Course Accredited by ACECQA, this course is open for Semester 1, 2025 applications. This course meets national curriculum and teaching standards, aligns with the National Quality Framework, and enhances job prospects with up-to-date practices. For more information visit:

Animal Logic Work Experience Program Animal Logic are running their work experience program again for Years 10 to 11 students in November. Visit:

Scholarships, Early Entry, Alternative Pathways Information for Students  

Applications for the NSW Department of Education's Future Teacher Scholarships Now Open Know a Year 12 student considering a career in teaching? If so, encourage them to apply for a future teacher scholarship with the NSW Department of Education. Successful applicants will be financially supported while they study and receive a guaranteed permanent position in a NSW public school upon completion of studies. To find out more, visit:

National Fashion College | Early Entry for 2025
NFC's 1-year course is designed by 40+ industry experts and is the gateway to a career in fashion. Students can access internships with 600+ brand partners and land jobs in the industry by the end of their studies. Early entry for 2025 now open. Download our course guide:

Macquarie Leaders and Achievers | Early Entry Year 12 students can be awarded with an early entry offer to Macquarie University for demonstrating initiative and commitment in Years 11 and 12. Final round applications close on Friday 30 August. Find out more and apply at:

CQUniversity | Early Offer Scheme Updates Applications for CQU’s Principal Recommendation Scheme, an early entry pathway for Year 12’s, open 1 August. Students can apply for eligible CQU undergraduate courses with offers released from 2 September 2024, without waiting for their end of year results. Learn how to apply:

Western Sydney University HSC True Reward Early Offer Program HSC True Reward provides offers based on students' Year 11 or Year 12 results. Students can explore the HSC True Reward webpage for more information on important dates, subject requirements and how to apply for study in 2025. Apply by 4 September to be considered for the first HSC True Reward offer round.

JMC Academy | 2025 Early Entry Why wait? Get an offer to study at JMC in February 2025 now. JMC’s early entry program is open for Year 12 students to secure their conditional offer for 2025. Apply Now:

Western Sydney University Scholarships Applications Open for 2025 Western offers $25 million in scholarships each year, recognising academic excellence, community involvement and leadership skills. Scholarships available for 2025 are open. Please refer to the individual scholarship pages for eligibility criteria that may apply and important dates:

The Year 10 students have now made their subject selections for 2025 and the process of working out the lines and classes is well under way.  Thanks to Mrs Avery and Mr McKee for their work on this. 

If a student is interested in completing an SBAT in Years 11 and 12, now is the time to get the paperwork started.  Please come and see me if you wish to do this.  Please also remember that if you choose this pathway then you are responsible for catching up on any work that you have missed while at work or at TAFE.  Once the SBAT/TVET is started then this can count as at least two of your units for Preliminary and HSC work. 

We have had one confirmed HNEH SBAT for 2025/2026.  Congratulations to Marley Marriott on her successful application.  I am still waiting to hear if late applications for this are possible. 

Thanks to those Year 10 students who have submitted an EOI for TVET in 2025.  They are currently under consideration at the CSO and I will be submitting them into the EVET site in the coming weeks. 

Please remember that there is usually more than one pathway into a preferred career and talk to your teachers and parents about your choices.  I am happy to meet with anyone who would like some help with this. 

If anyone would like to do Work Experience, please come and get the paperwork from me. 

I am happy to meet with anyone to discuss anything to do with post school pathways. 

Karen McCann
Careers/VET Adviser

Term 3

Term 4

ASPIRE

Road Rules Awareness Week 2024

Busways encourages schools to remind high school students and parents about the importance of road rule refreshers and driving around buses. 

With nearly 1,350 buses operating across our network in 2024, this week provides a perfect reminder about road safety in your community, particularly regarding bus safety and commonly misunderstood road rules. 

Many people believe they understand road rules, but a refresher on commonly misunderstood rules can play a crucial role in reducing road accidents. 

Busways would like to remind motorists: 

• That buses are large, heavy vehicles that cannot stop quickly,
• To give way to buses,
• To slow down to 40km/h when bus lights flash, and
• To hold on while travelling and to remain seated until the bus stops. 

Road Rules Awareness Week relevant content below: 

• Downloadable Road User Handbook
• Animation Videos – School Zones and Bus safety in NSW - Bus flashing lights
• Social Media Tile – School Zones, Bus Safety and RRAW
• Posters
• Road Rules Awareness Quiz

Together we can make our roads safer for everyone. 

Busways Team