Celebrating Success 

I would like to begin by celebrating the many successes that St Clare students have experienced over the past three weeks. 

Congratulations to the Year 10 Science students who competed in the 2025 Rotary STEM Competition.  They had a day of problem solving, building bridges, making rockets and putting theory into practice.  The team came home with a first prize of $500 to put towards a STEM purchase of their choice! 

 Addison Hogan, Sienna Waterhouse, Oliver Collins & Pyper Cross

Congratulations also to Max Isbel, Michael Bonanno, Beau Vaughan, and Oliver Collins who recently competed in the DaVinci Decathlon.  These students were able to work with students from across the Diocese to work collaboratively across Mathematics, English, Science, Code Breaking, Engineering, Ideation, Creative Producers, Art, Poetry, Cartography and Legacy. 

Year 11 student Sara Harris is also to be congratulated for her representation in the North Coast Bulldogs Rugby League representative team.  This team won on the weekend and are the 2025 Westpac Regional Lisa Fiaola Cup Premiers!  From this Sara has been selected to attend the NSWRL Regional Emerging Women’s Academy.  Well done Sara! 

Next a shoutout to the Year 12 Mixed Netball team who competed in the Fast 5 competition.  The team walked away as champions on the day.

Parent-Teacher Night 

Our recent Parent/Teacher Night for Year 7 and Year 12 was a wonderful opportunity for families and teachers to come together in partnership.  The evening fostered meaningful conversations about student progress, aspirations, and the shared commitment to academic and personal growth.  For our Year 7 families, it was a chance to build strong foundations as students embark on their high school journey, while Year 12 discussions focused on supporting students through their final year and preparing them for life beyond school.  The atmosphere was one of collaboration and encouragement, reinforcing the importance of communication, mutual understanding, and working towards common goals.  We are grateful for the engagement and support of our school community as we continue to nurture an environment where every student can thrive. 

Next term, we will be holding Parent/Teacher Night for students in Years 8 to 11, providing an opportunity for families to connect with teachers and discuss academic progress.  Students are encouraged to attend alongside their parents to engage in meaningful conversations about their learning journey.  Further details will be released via Compass. 

On this day, Year 12 students will attend their normal lessons, ensuring continuity in their studies as they approach their final year.  Meanwhile, Year 7 students will complete an online module at home, designed to enhance their understanding of cyber safety.  This course presents key lessons on password security, phishing, and online kindness through an engaging, gamified experience.  With four interactive units, the course equips students with essential digital skills and takes approximately one to two hours to complete.  We encourage Year 7 families to support students as they navigate this valuable online resource, helping them build safe and responsible habits in the digital world. 

Values and Expectations 

This week I would also like to share with parents my message to students from assembly this week, reminding all students about our expectations and the values that we represent at St Clare’s. 

Today, I want to speak about something that defines who we are—not just as individuals but as a community.  Our school is built on values:  respect, integrity, compassion, and responsibility.  These aren’t just words on a wall or phrases in a handbook; they are the foundation of the way we treat each other, the way we learn, and the way we grow together. 

Now, I want Year 12 to stand up for a moment — as they represent 10% of you.  The reason I’m asking this is because it is important to have a visual.  Now in every school, there’s about 10% of people who forget the impact they have on others.  Sometimes, through their words or actions, they disrupt learning, speak harshly to their peers, or operate in a way that makes others feel excluded.  This isn’t about blaming or shaming — it’s about recognising that every single one of us holds the power to influence our school environment. 

To the 90% of students who consistently live out our values, I want to say thank you.  You are the heart of our school — you set the tone for how we interact, how we learn, and how we support one another.  Your positive attitude, kindness, and commitment make our school a place where everyone can thrive. 

Saint Mary MacKillop of the Cross, a woman of courage and wisdom, once said, "Never see a need without doing something about it."  That means if we see someone struggling, we help them.  If we hear someone being spoken to in a harsh way, we intervene with kindness.  If we witness someone disrupting learning, we remind them in an appropriate way that their choices affect others. 

How we speak to each other matters.  Words can build people up, and they can tear people down.  Choose wisely.  The way we behave towards each other — keeping hands off, respecting personal space, and avoiding the ‘pack mentality’ where negative behaviours spread — shapes the experience of every student in this room. 

Now think about the 10% and if your actions make you part of the 10%.  Think about what kind of impact you want to have.  Will you be someone who lifts others up or someone who makes it harder for them to learn and grow?  Or will you choose to change, to shift your actions, to strengthen this community instead of making it weaker.  And to the 90% already doing the right thing — keep going.  Be the role models who set the standard and make our school a place that reflects the best of us. 

Let’s work together to make every day one where we live our values — not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard.  Because every single person in this room has the ability to make this school better.  It starts with you and it starts right now.

Easter 

And finally as we approach the joyous celebration of Easter, we reflect on the significance of this sacred season in our faith.  Easter is a time of renewal — a reminder of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and His resurrection, offering us hope and new life. 

This year, as part of our Lenten journey, we have been actively supporting Project Compassion, an initiative that brings life-changing assistance to vulnerable communities worldwide.  Through your generosity and the efforts of our staff and students, we have embodied Jesus’ call to serve — ensuring that dignity, opportunity, and love reach those most in need. 

As Easter draws near, let us rejoice in the gift of hope and may this Easter season be a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewal for all families in our school community. 

Wishing you all a blessed and joyful Easter.

Christine Harmer
Principal

Forster-Tuncurry Catholic Parish 

Current Mass times are Saturday, 9:30 am & 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:

In Term 2, students in Year 7 will participate in the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT).  This test evaluates students' reasoning abilities in three key areas essential for success in school: 

1. Verbal Battery: Assesses students' ability to reason with words and concepts, crucial for reading comprehension, critical thinking, writing, and verbal learning tasks. 

2. Quantitative Battery: Measures students' ability to reason with quantitative symbols and concepts, which are vital for problem-solving in mathematics and other disciplines. 

3. Nonverbal Battery: Evaluates students' ability to reason with geometric shapes and figures, requiring them to implement strategies for solving novel problems. 

These batteries provide a comprehensive view of each student's learned reasoning abilities, identifying both strengths and areas for improvement.  CogAT aims to support differentiated practice in education by helping teachers adapt instruction to meet the unique needs and abilities of each student. 

It's important to note that CogAT scores are not integrated into report grades or other conventional measures of school achievement.  The focus is on tailoring instruction and fostering a supportive, inclusive learning environment based on each child's ability. 

If you have any concerns or questions about your child's academic progress or specific educational needs, please schedule a meeting with your child's teacher.  They will discuss your child's strengths and areas for growth based on various assessments.  Additionally, you can contact our Gifted Education Mentor (GEM) Terri Cornish-Allen (terri.cornish-allen@mn.catholic.edu.au), or Leader of High Potential and Gifted Education, Maree Karaka (maree.karaka@mn.catholic.edu.au), for further assistance. 

Thank you for your continued support in ensuring the best educational outcomes for our students. 

Mrs Theresa Avery
Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching

Year 7 recently attended a three-day camp at Toukley.  Students participated in a range of activities including surfing, bush laser-tag, giant wing, leap of faith, archery and canoeing.  These activities were new experiences for many students and enabled some of them to overcome their fears.  When students were not on a scheduled activity, they were being fed copious amounts of food every hour and a half (there was A LOT of food)!!  During free time, students were able to engage with friends in their cabins or by playing ball games.  Needless to say, there was not a lot of sleep to be had.  All students appeared to have a great time and seemed particularly delighted when Mr Buckland was coerced into having a go on the giant swing.

I would like to thank students for the way they behaved and participated throughout the camp.  A huge thank you also goes to staff that attended the camp - Mrs Parvin, Miss Rayne. Miss Bennett, Mrs Dunn, Mrs Brown, Miss Gogerly, Mr Gonfond, Mr Hobbes, Mr Starr and Mr Koenig.

James Buckland
Year 7 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement

Congratulations to our Year 10 students who entered the RYSTEM (Regional Youth Science Technology Engineering and Maths) Challenge on Thursday 27 March 2025, sponsored by MidCoast Council, Engineers Australia (Newcastle) and the Taree Rotary Club. 

Year 10 Students who attended the Challenge:

Our St Clare’s Team won the $500 cash first prize donated by the sponsors towards a STEM project of their choosing for St Clare’s High School. 

Six secondary schools from our region competed in seven challenges in two sessions throughout the day, held at the Manning Uniting Church in Taree.  Teams competed for the most points in each and every challenge.  Each group was given limited resources to construct their engineering challenge, for which they needed to think creatively to be innovative in their designs.  Teamwork was the key. 

1. Bridge - design and construct a suspension bridge to support a progressively heavier dynamic load
2. Rocket – design and construct an air powered rocket to achieve both maximum altitude and range
3. Glider – design to carry a payload and land with precision
4. Power It – design and test an efficient power grid system to deliver electrical energy to a region
5. Robots – program motion of rovers to navigate various paths with speed and precision
6. Water Tower – design and construct a water tower of maximum height, capable of storing maximum water volume, and able to withstand progressively more intense earthquakes
7. Bionic Hand – design and construct a bionic hand capable of both gross and fine motor skills 

We were so proud of how all the students who attended, including all those from the other schools, worked together in their teams and supported each other.  They encouraged and applauded every other team in their successes.  They displayed excellent manners and showed their gratitude to the volunteers who helped them in the challenges and also pitched in to help pack up and clean up. 

John Walton, and his Taree and other regional Rotary Clubs members, have so generously given their time volunteering to set up as well as resource this event every year for several decades now.  Their commitment to the challenge and their attention to every student who attended were remarkable. 

Some memorable moments were: 

Kirsty-Lee, Shiloh, Lin, and Oliver having their rocket lodged in the organ pipes because it launched so high and so far, they needed to get an extension ladder to retrieve it! 

Pyper, Georgia, Addi and Alice creating the Toblerone-inspired winning design suspension bridge that held up until the very last massive trolley only just broke it in the last trial. 

Tayte, Marley, and Reef with John Walton in the final photo flashing the ‘gold trophy’ – 10 x gold $50 notes!  Cheeky boys.  We are sure John wants them back again next year as volunteers to help run the show! 

Let’s hope the RYSTEM program can continue to attract sponsorship and enthusiastic volunteers into the future to help inspire more young people to enter the field of STEM. 

A huge thank you to Ms Sheena O’Doherty who organised the students, encouraged them and took them to the challenge!  It is much appreciated. 

Mrs Jane Polson
Leader of Learning Science

Year 10 and the Environmental Group attended a free one-hour Blue Minds Leadership Workshop. 

The Blue Minds Youth Ocean Leadership Workshop is an interactive workshop that gives young people practical tools and strategies to manage anxiety and stress related to climate change.  Educational Insights:  Understanding the science and impact of climate change.  Empowerment:  Feeling empowered to take actionable steps, both individually and within their communities, to contribute positively to environmental sustainability.

The presenters were: 

Cooper Chapman is an ex-professional surfer, founder of The Good Human Factory and a leading youth mental health speaker.  With over a decade as a professional surfer his unique approach to mental health awareness and education has seen him speak to over 40,000 students at 85+ schools. 

Kal Glanznig was awarded Sutherland Shire Young Australian of the Year 2020 and Environmental Citizen of the Year 2023; he was part of the Youth Advisory Council for World Ocean Day and in 2022 and 2023 attended the United Nations Climate Change COP.  A passionate aquatic athlete with a love for the ocean, Kal has also represented Australia in water polo at the Youth World Championships. 

Sandra Basile
Learning Support Teacher Year 10

Mathematics Workshop and Homework Support takes place on Fridays at lunchtime in Room 13  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

NSWCCC Swimming 

Sophie Scislo and Yasmin Cassidy represented the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese at the NSWCCC Swimming Championships which were held at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre Homebush.

Sophie Scislo & Yasmin Cassidy

Sophie Scislo placed 3^rd in the 50 metre Butterfly and 3^rd in the 100 metre Butterfly and qualified for the NSW All Schools Championships which will take place from Thursday, 22 May to Friday, 23 May 2025 at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre Homebush. 

Luke Rowe
Leader of Learning - Sport

St Clare’s Cross Country Championship 2025 

The Cross Country Championship held on Thursday, 3 April at the Taree Recreation Grounds was heavily affected by the recent rain with the grounds closed, however, the event was completed using the criterium track with students adapting to completing laps of the track for their required distances.   

All students participating and helping displayed enthusiasm and a willingness to compete and do their best.  Thank you to Mrs McCann, Mrs Lovern and the Sports Coaching students who supported and assisted running the event.

 

The following students participated on the day in either a 3km, 4km, 6km or 8km event: 

Harry Cook, Miles Craig, Jack Thompson, Joseph Hill, Levi Dodds, Michael Galati, Sam Mitchell, Jessikah White, Mia Wheeler, Carter Cox, Jacob Clark, Phryne Rowe, Zarlie McDermott, Ella McLane, Jaylah Koenig, Kannika Broadbent, Nahlah Wells, Sophie Pickford, Tara Isbel, Amelia Johnson, Benjamin Cooper, Matthew Clements, Aiden Miles, Elka Petersen, Ruby Hillyard and Daniel Yan. 

Students eligible for the Diocesan Cross Country will travel to Glenbawn Dam on Thursday, 8 May to compete at the Diocesan event.  To be eligible, students must have finished in the top eight places at the school event to gain an invitation to the Diocesan Championships.  These students will be added to the event, with consent and payment to attend due on Thursday, 10 April.  Any student who does not wish to attend must let Mr Rowe know as soon as possible.  Students have been notified via email. 

House Standings 

1. Gordon - 140 points
2. Lawson - 110 points
3. Paterson – 70 points
4. Kendall – 60 points 

Age Champions 

12 Years
Boys – not contested
Girls – Sophia Whithouse-Miotto 

13 Years
Boys – Joseph Hill
Girls – Mia Wheeler 

14 Years
Boys – Carter Cox
Girls – Zarlie McDermott 

15 Years
Boys – not contested
Girls – Kannika Broadbent 

16 Years
Boys – Matthew Clements
Girls – not contested

17 Years
Boys – Aiden Miles
Girls – not contested 

18 Years
Boys – Daniel Yan
Girls – noncompetitive

Luke Rowe
Leader of Learning - Sport

U16 Boys Futsal

On Wednesday, 27 March the U16 Boys Futsal team travelled to Port Macquarie.  They played five games throughout the day, eventually going down to GLC Tuncurry in the semi-final.  All players should be extremely proud of their spirited performance and the respectful way in which they represented our school.  A huge thank you to all parents who helped out with transport on the day. 

(L to R):  Ashton Dennis, Caden Hicks, Kaleb Ryan, Nash Syron, Henry O’Connell and Oscar Davy

Todd Curtis
U16 Boys Futsal Coordinator

Diocesan Sport Website Guide

Careers Corner

Welcome to Chapter 3 of the St Clare’s High School Careers Corner. 

Year 12 Careers Day 

On Tuesday 1 April we had our Year 12 Careers Day after having to postpone the day in February due to a school closure.  The students were dressed in “What they wanted to be when they grew up”.  There were some interesting professions present. 

There was a wealth of information given about post school pathways, resume and cover letter-writing.  We looked at coping strategies and what we can do to help each other in this very busy last three terms of school. 

It is extremely important that all students have up-to-date resumes and a specific cover letter for at least two different choices of career.  This can be done via Job Jump, My Future, My Future Finder (UNE) and “Word”.  We will continue to develop these in the coming weeks in our Careers Sessions on Fridays during Period 1 and I am encouraging the students to save these in their Careers OneNote. 

A special thank you to Mrs Rowsell for her presentation about Trade Pathways.  The information she shared was excellent. 

Lunch was pizzas! 

At the start of our Year 12 Careers Day, Mrs Avery worked with the students to ensure that their information on NESA was correct.  For those students away on the day, it is of the utmost importance that you check your NESA online account to ensure that the correct information is there re your contact details and your subjects in Year 11 and Year12.  You will need to see Mrs Avery to check your forms. 

I would like to thank Erin Lute (from RIEP) for organising our presenters.  I would also like to thank our presenters:  Jamie and Josh from Essential Energy, Gabby and Jamie from Ray White, and Amanda from Valley Industries.  It was wonderful to hear from such a wide range of people talking about a huge range of post school pathways. 

Amanda from Valley Industries, James & Josh from Essential Energy, Gabby from Ray White 

UAC (Universities Admission Centre) 

UAC (Universities Admission Centre) opened on Wednesday 2 April and all of the students should have received information about this process.  This included information on SRS, EAS and Equity Scholarships. 

All the students will have received a PIN to access this which is necessary if they want to go to university post school.  This is one of the pathways to do this. 

Another is Direct Entry and of course there are Early Entry options as well. 

If you have not received your PIN, there are steps to take to get this.  Please come and see me if you would any help with this. 

There was some very important information about UAC, including SRS, EAS and Equity Scholarships.  There will be information on some of the University Early Entry pathways and scholarship options in the coming weeks and these will all be dealt with in more detail during our Friday P1 Career sessions. 

This information will be in our Careers Team OneNote. 

Schools Recommendation Scheme 

Applications opened on 2 April 2025. 

The Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS) is one way institutions make early offers of undergraduate admission to Year 12 students.  They do this by using criteria other than (or in addition to) the ATAR. 

Who can apply? 

To apply for SRS you must be a Year 12 applicant who is attempting one of the following: 

• an Australian Year 12 qualification in 2025
• an International Baccalaureate in Australia in 2025 

You must also be: 

• a UAC applicant for undergraduate admission in 2026
• an Australian or New Zealand citizen, a permanent resident of Australia or the holder of an Australian permanent resident humanitarian visa 

Interstate and IB applicants:  Wait until 1 August to complete your UAC undergraduate and SRS applications.  We need access to your Year 12 student ID details and we will have them by August. 

How you are assessed 

Participating institutions may use one or more of the following criteria listed when considering your application: 

• your Year 11 studies (IB and interstate students will need to upload a PDF of their Year 11 school report)
• your school’s rating of your aptitudes
• your Educational Access Scheme (EAS) application (if applicable) 

Institutions will then make offers based: 

• solely on SRS criteria
• on both SRS criteria and ATAR/selection rank
• on SRS criteria and ATAR and equity criteria 

Each institution has its own policy for determining SRS eligibility and making offers.  For example, you may also have to submit an EAS application institution-defined dates or attend a school in a particular region. 

SRS is not available for all courses.  The institution-specific SRS criteria detail any exceptions. 

Application dates 

2 April 2025 

SRS:  Applications open for 2025 

SRS applications open at 9 am for 2025 Year 12 students.  You must complete an application for undergraduate admission before you can apply for SRS. 

5 September 2025 

SRS: Applications close for 2025 

Apply for the Schools Recommendation Scheme by 11:59 pm.  You must first complete a UAC application for undergraduate admission. 

6 November 2025 

SRS: Course preference deadline for first SRS offers 

Include your SRS course preferences in your UAC application by 11:59 pm.  First SRS offers will be released in November Round 1 on 13 November. 

13 November 2025 

SRS:  First offers released 

SRS unconditional and conditional offers released.  Check your email or log in to your UAC undergraduate application. 

Educational Access Scheme 

How the Educational Access Scheme works 

EAS applications opened 2 April 2025. 

You can apply for EAS from your completed undergraduate application. 

The Educational Access Scheme (EAS) helps UAC applicants who have encountered significant educational challenges.  It gives them the opportunity to have their circumstances taken into account when institutions select applicants for courses. 

If you are eligible for consideration under the Educational Access Scheme and your ATAR (or equivalent) is below the required selection rank for a course, an institution can increase your selection rank for that course, making you more competitive for a place. 

Each institution has its own policy on when and how it increases selection ranks for eligible applicants. 

Being eligible for EAS consideration doesn’t guarantee you an offer to a course; you still need to meet any published lowest selection rank for that course and compete with all other applicants for a place.  If you successfully compete against other applicants, you will receive an offer as part of the standard undergraduate offer rounds. 

Selection rank adjustments 

Eligibility
Assessment
Downloads 

EAS application guide( pdf ), opens in a new tab.

Application dates 

2 April 2025 

EAS:  Applications open for 2025 to 2026 admissions 

EAS application and supporting documents must be received at least two weeks before the undergraduate offer round in which you wish to be considered. 

18 November 2025 

EAS: Closing date for EAS applications for December Round 2 

Apply and provide documents for EAS by midnight to have your application considered in December Round 2. 

18 December 2025 

EAS: Eligibility letters released for December Round 2 

EAS eligibility letters begin to be progressively released to applicants with finalised assessment for December Round 2. 

25 December 2025 

EAS:  Closing date for EAS applications for January Round 1 

Apply and provide documents for EAS by midnight to have your application considered in January Round 1. 

Equity Scholarships 

Equity Scholarships are awarded to tertiary students who demonstrate the greatest level of financial need.  Most applicants who are awarded a scholarship are receiving Centrelink income support payments such as ABSTUDY, Austudy, Youth Allowance, JobSeeker Payment, Disability Support Pension, Parenting Payment (Single) or the Carer Payment. 

There are two types of Equity Scholarships: 

• Institution Equity Scholarships: funded by individual institutions and their value, eligibility criteria and duration differ between institutions
• Indigenous Student Success Program scholarships: funded by the Australian Government. 

Most institutions also offer merit scholarships: apply directly to the institution for these. 

Who can apply? 

To apply for an Equity Scholarship, you must be enrolled at a UAC participating institution, or applying for admission to a UAC participating institution in one of the following ways: 

• through UAC (for undergraduate or postgraduate study: only a very limited number of Equity Scholarships are open to international applicants)
• directly to an institution
• through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) or the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). 

Most applicants who receive a scholarship are receiving Centrelink income support payments and/or can demonstrate that they meet additional types of eligibility criteria specified by the institution. 

Details of requirements for individual scholarships can be found on the institution websites. 

Being eligible doesn't guarantee a scholarship 

Meeting scholarship eligibility criteria doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be awarded a scholarship.  There are more applicants than available scholarships.  As part of a competitive application process, you are ranked against the eligibility criteria, and institutions award scholarships to applicants who best meet the eligibility criteria. 

If you are unsuccessful, it doesn’t mean that you’re not in need; rather, it means that there are other applicants who’ve been assessed as being in greater need. 

Download 

Equity Scholarships application guide( pdf ), opens in a new tab. 

Application and offer dates 

2 April 2025 

Equity Scholarships:  Applications open for 2025 to 2026 

Applications open at 9am. 

4 April 2025 

Equity Scholarships:  April Round 1 application deadline 

Apply and upload PDF documents by 11.59pm for consideration in April Round 1. 

18 April 2025 

Equity Scholarships:  April Round 1 outcomes released 

Equity Scholarship April Round 1 outcomes released at 9am.

25 April 2025 

Equity Scholarships:  May Round 1 application deadline 

Apply and upload PDF documents by 11.59pm for consideration in May Round 1. 

Each university has it’s own pathway and it is important to look at the website for each university to know what should be done with regard to this. 

Work Experience 

A reminder re - Work Experience for 2025. 

Work Experience (W/E) in 2025 at St Clare’s will be available as targeted work experience.  Mrs Nicole Lovern will be looking after this in 2025. 

W/E will be for the following students: 

• Transition to work students identified by Learning Support
• Students in Year 9 and 10 interested in leaving school to find employment at the end of 2025/2026.
• Students in Year 11 and 12 who need W/E as part of applications for courses, scholarships and employment. 

W/E can be done in the following forms: 

• One day a week – transition to work programs for Work Studies students
• One day/week for five weeks or one week organised in conjunction with the school calendar for students looking to leave school
• During holidays for Year 11 and Year 12 students, and for Year 10 students - only if two supporting St Clare’s teachers are available as monitors. 

Work Placement (W/P) for VET students will continue as normal in designated weeks. 

Process for W/E 

• Students wishing to be involved in a work experience program in 2025 will need to collect and fill in an application form (See Mrs Lovern).
• Each application will require an interview with Mrs Lovern and a discussion of the reason for wanting to be part of the program which must be supported by parents.
• All students will need to complete a “Work Ready” booklet which is in the W/E pack
• All students will need to complete “Go2Workplacement”
• An annual insurance fee applies to all students involved in W/E or W/P programs. 

White Card Course 

There will be a White Card Course running at St Clare’s on Wednesday, 7 May in Term 2. 

This is being run by Learning Live and will cost $140. 

At the moment there is a waiting list.  I would like to remind those students who have put their names down to come and get their permission notes please. 

CAA 

The latest information from CAA is as follows: 

Information Sessions for Students & Parents, Open Days, Expos for Students 

CQUniversity | Regional Medical Pathway Information Session – Thursday, 3 April 4.30pm (AEST) Explore CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Medical Science (Pathway to Medicine) and its provisional direct entry into The University of Queensland’s Doctor of Medicine at the online info session. Learn about applications, regional adjustment points and hear from experts at CQUniversity, UQ and Central Queensland as well as Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service. For more information email futurestudents@cqu.edu.au.

Sydney Design School | Open Day Saturday 5 April 10.00am-12.00pm Find out more about a creative qualification in interior design at Sydney Design School’s Open Day. Twice a year there is an opportunity for students to explore the studios, meet students and Educators and get creative making a mood board or 3D model. Ground Floor, 65 Berry St, North Sydney. To register:

RTO91446

TAFE NSW | Bradfield Senior College Open Day 8 April 2025 For HSC students interested in a traditional HSC or for preparation for creative industry, Bradfield’s project-based learning in Year 11 can help you build the HSC that prepares you for the right career. Enrolling for October 2025 Year 12 and February 2026 Year 11. To register:

AIBI Higher Education Open Day | Cyber Security & Business Degrees AIBI Higher Education is hosting an open day on the 16 April from 10.00am-11.00am at its Sydney CBD campus - Level 2, 451 Pitt St, Haymarket. Attendees can enjoy morning tea, a presentation, campus tour and discussions with course advisers and faculty. Learn about AIBI HE cyber security and business degrees, scholarships and student experiences. To register:

Scholarships, Early Entry, Alternate Pathways 

UAC | Early Offer Schemes for Year 12 Students While the ATAR is still the main selection tool used by most universities, there are other ways for students to show that they are ready to succeed at tertiary study. Many institutions have one or more early offer schemes for Year 12 students. For more information visit

Information Sessions for Students & Parents, Open Days, Expos for Students 

Sydney Design School | Holiday Information Session Wednesday 16 April, 1pm Join Sydney Design School for an on campus or online Infomation Session on Wednesday 16 April, 1pm. The ASQA accredited Diploma of Interior Design requires no ATAR and is VET Student Loan approved with a pathway to university. For more information visit

Open Day at Whitecliffe | The Fashion Institute Whitecliffe | The Fashion Institue is hosting an open evening on Wednesday April 30. Get insights on industry-focused degrees, exciting fashion week opportunities, and internship opportunities. Meet expert lecturers and gain insights into student life. Don’t miss this chance to take the next step toward your fashion career. To register:

The Hotel School Australia | Tourism Insights at Sydney Opera House on Saturday 17 May Tourism Insights is an exclusive event for Year 12 students to explore Sydney Opera House, a leading tourism venue, to discover exciting career opportunities in the tourism. Highlights include industry guest speakers, hands-on tourism workshops, a tour of a leading tourism venue, exploring courses and networking with leaders and THSA students. Register now:

Claire Pech | Year 12 and Beyond with ADHD Student Webinar On the back of the Parent Webinar ran in Term 1, this practical and interactive webinar in Term 2, is tailored for students in Year 12 with ADHD. This talk is being run by Claire Pech (a Careers Adviser who works with students and adults with ADHD) and Amanda Krulis (an Organisational Psychologist who runs her own ADHD Coaching Practice). Dates: Wednesday 21 May and Thursday 29 May from 7pm-8.30pm AEST. To book:

Royal Doctors Network| Rural Health Pathways Showcase High School students, Careers Advisers, teachers and parents are invited to RDN’s Rural Health Pathways Showcase on Monday 8 September, 9.30am-2pm and 4pm -7.30pm at the ICC, Darling Harbour. Learn about study pathways and careers in medicine, nursing, midwifery, allied health, Aboriginal health and administration. Register now:

UC Sydney Hills' Inaugural Open Day The countdown to UC Sydney Hills' Open Day has begun. Join UC Sydney Hills for a day of exploration and fun. Dive into hands-on workshops, campus tours and engaging activities. Students can connect with expert faculty and discover exciting careers in health and education. Mark your calendar for June—registration details are coming soon.

National Fashion College is Hitting the Road Expo season is kicking off, and NFC ready to connect with schools across NSW. With 10 positions left for the May intake, plus the launch of London Fashion Week in NFC's global program, there’s never been a better time for students to get involved. For more information email hello@nationalfashioncollege.com. 

Courses & Workshops for Students 

TCP Training | White Card, RSA & First Aid Training TCP Training (RTO ID 91118) is a Registered Training Organisation that provides White Card, RSA & First Aid Training for schools. TCP Training offers public courses in location all around the Sydney Metropolitan area or TCP can have an experienced trainer come to your school on a day that suits you. For more information visit

 or email bookings@tcptraining.com.

Launch an AI Career in just 90 days with Forrest Training’s Microsoft AI Certification Program Gain in-demand skills, get certified and access real job opportunities across NSW. No experience needed—just commitment. Includes training, career coaching & job placement support. For more information email forrest@forresttraining.com.au.

The College at Western Sydney University The College at Western offers guaranteed pathways to the second year of Bachelor programs, no ATAR required. The new Diploma courses provide an immersive study experience, that includes no exams and no lectures, a dedicated Student Success Coach and studying one course-specific subject at a time. For more information visit

CQUniversity | Give Students a Head Start with CQUniversity's SUN Program CQUniversity's Start Uni Now (SUN) program gives high school students in Years 10–12 the chance to combine senior studies with university-level learning. By choosing from a range of bachelor-level units, students gain real university experience and get a head start on their degrees. For more information visit

Traineeships, Cadetships, Apprenticeships - Information & Opportunities

Everthought Education | Hands-On Apprenticeship Training – Learn and Earn Everthought Education offers apprenticeship training in trades like carpentry, concreting, waterproofing, tiling, and ceiling lining. Students complete a 3-4 year apprenticeship with a licensed builder, gaining hands-on experience with online and work-based assessments. For more information visit

Scholarships, Early Entry, Alternate Pathways 

Western's Scholarships open in April 2025 Western offers $20 million in scholarships every year, including a generous range of university and donor-funded opportunities. Applications open in April 2025 for Session 2, 2025 and Session 1, 2026. For more information visit

Jobs & Work Experience for Students 

UNSW SPREE Work Experience Program UNSW SPREE work experience program, October 20-24. Year 10 high school students will take a deep dive into hands-on activities, gain industry insights and take a closer look at cutting edge research. Please note, travel subsidies are available for eligible students. Students can submit an EOI here:

UNSW School of Chemical Engineering Work Experience Program UNSW School of Chemical Engineering work experience program, October 20-24. Year 10 high school students will take a deep dive into hands-on activities, gain industry insights and take a closer look at cutting edge research. Please note, travel subsidies are available for eligible students. Students can submit an EOI here:

1300apprentice | Blacktown City Council Mid-Year Intake Coming Soon Don’t miss out on the chance to kickstart your journey with our Blacktown City Council Mid-Year Intake. There are some exciting entry level opportunities for traineeships and apprenticeships, perfect for school leavers.  Applications will be opening early May. Stay tuned for more details!

APM Futures | School Leaver Employment Support Program APM Futures are providing a 1:1 service depending on the individuals needs and requirements. APM has been registered as a NDIS Provider with the area of assistance falling into the SLES (School Leaver Employment Support) and Employment Support services surrounding employment, capacity building and social skills building. For more information visit

Resources for Students 

Unsure What to Do After School? 1300apprentice Can Help An apprenticeship is paid learning, work and learn simultaneously without the debt and with more job security. Research apprenticeships & traineeships online

Find information for job seekers, women in trades, aboriginal employment, skills shortage list and FAQs.

Other Information

2025 ATO Tax, Super + You Competition The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Tax, Super + You Competition is now open for students in Years 7-12. The competition is a fun and engaging way for high school students to learn about the value of tax and super. Students can participate in a team or individually to make a creative project about tax and super. Students can write it, make it or film it. Competition closes 5 September 2025, 5.00pm AEST. For more information visit:

I am happy to meet with anyone who would like to talk about post school pathways and can be contacted by phone on 6552 3300 or by email karen.mccann@mn.catholic.edu.au

Karen McCann
Careers/VET Adviser

Term 1 2025

Term 2 2025

Hunter Wetlands School Holiday Fun 

‍Easter Fun Day – Saturday 19 April 

Our BIGGEST Family FUN DAY is back with Jumping Castle, Face Painting, Games, Craft, Kids activities and of course the EASTER BUNNY! 

Book Your Tickets ONLINE

Wetlands After Dark Guided Tour – 11 & 24 April 

Spot our night time wildlife on this special torchlight tour! Experienced guide will be guiding us through the wetlands woodlands and reeds in search of our nocturnal residents. 

Book Your Tickets ONLINE

Reptile Encounters 

EVERY WEDNESDAY, SATURDAY and SUNDAY at 11am during School Holidays. Come along and meet Kevin the Bearded Dragon, Jay Jay the snake and more! 

Nocturnal Wildlife Walk 

Follow our interactive Nocturnal Wildlife Walk around the Wetlands and learn how to find and identify nocturnal animals. When: Every Day. Cost: FREE with Entry 

‍Other Activities 

*Free Bird Feeding every day at 10.30am * Playgrounds, Picnic Areas and BBQs
* Walking Trails * Free Guided Walks Tuesdays and Saturdays at 10.30am
* On-site Cafe