Gifted Education Mentor Report
World Scholars Cup
The World Scholar’s Cup was held at, at St Philip’s Christian College, Cessnock last month. This is the first time the World Scholar’s Cup has been hosted in our region, making it a particularly exciting opportunity for our students.
Over two exciting days, our students joined peers from across the region to engage in this international festival of learning, where collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking take centre stage. They participated in four challenging and inspiring events:
- Scholar’s Bowl– a fast-paced team quiz spanning a wide range of subjects.
- Team Debate– lively debates on topical and thought-provoking issues.
- Scholar’s Challenge– an individual multiple-choice test covering diverse areas of knowledge.
- Collaborative Writing– creative and analytical writing in teams.
Our students, Max Isbel, Michael Bonnano, Beau Vaughan and Oliver Collins represented St Clares High School with distinction, demonstrating teamwork, confidence, and intellectual curiosity.
Oliver Collins, Michael Bonnano, Beau Vaughan & Max Isbel
University of Newcastle (UoN) High Performing Student Program
Earlier this term we celebrated the remarkable achievements of students in the UoN High Performing Student Program, who were awarded certificates in first-year university units across Business, Mathematics, and Medical Sciences.
Graduating students from St Clares are:
Discrete Maths - Bonnie McMaster and Flynn Small
Globalisation and International Management - Jaylah Koenig
More than academic excellence, the graduation recognised the motivation, dedication, and perseverance that set these students apart.
As alumni HPSP student and current 4th-year Biomedical Science student Tim reminded the audience, this program is an aspirational pathway - encouraging students to aim higher, say yes to opportunities, and surround themselves with likeminded people.
We were reminded to find what lights your fire, believe in yourself, step outside your comfort zone, and lift others up along the way.
The Maitland Newcastle Catholic Schools students walked with courage - and became dreamers for tomorrow.
Proudly, one-third of the graduates stemmed from our Diocesan Schools - a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the potential of our young people.
Together, we empower students to shine.
And we’re proud to partner with the only university in Australia offering this opportunity.
University of Newcastle HDR Student Festival – Inspiring Our Future Scholars
On Tuesday, 26 August selected students from across our schools including St Clare's Year 11 students attended the University of Newcastle Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Student Festival at the Callaghan Campus. This exciting event gave students a unique opportunity to experience university life firsthand, meet current researchers, and explore pathways into higher education.
Throughout the day, students engaged with interactive workshops, panel discussions, and campus tours, gaining valuable insights into how research shapes innovation and future careers. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to see how their talents, curiosity, and learning can extend far beyond the classroom.
We thank the University of Newcastle for hosting this inspiring event and our participating students and families for their support.
Terri Cornish-Allen
Gifted Education Mentor Project Officer, Catholic Schools Office