Filter Content
- Message from Director of Schools
- What's on the CS Calendar
- You are invited to join the aMeN caMiNo journey
- National Walk Safely to School Day
- Announcement of new St Nicholas Early Education centres in Forster and Kotara South
- Moree 'Makaratta' Immersion - is currently open for registration
- LET’S TALK LITURGY SERIES
- da Vinci Decathlon
- EARLY LEARNING – AEDC 2025 Data Release Update
- REMINDER: Changing NETiD login process
Dear Colleagues,
The Jubilee Launch set our communities on a pilgrimage journey. At this year’s Way of the Cross, we will continue the experience. This unique tradition is observed on the fifth Sunday in Lent.
I invite you to join me on Sunday, 6 April, to engage with other pilgrims and contemplate how we might be transformed into communities that radiate hope to the world around us as we walk the Way of the Cross.
When: Sunday 6 April, 3 pm (you are invited to gather from 2 pm)
Where: St Joseph's Catholic Church, Toronto (140 Wangi Road, Toronto NSW 2283)
What to bring:
- Walking shoes
- Hat
- Water bottle
- Insect repellent
After the pilgrimage, we will gather in the parish hall for afternoon tea.
The 2025 Newcastle and Hunter Combined Schools ANZAC Service
Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Civic Theatre Newcastle
I was most honoured to attend the Newcastle and Hunter Combined Schools ANZAC Service, bringing to life the experiences and contributions of Women in War. Stories were told about Nurse Marion Smith, who was of Aboriginal descent, during World War I; Gunner Valerie Blackett, a local from Stockton; and Nurse Vivian Bullwinkle, who both served in World War II.
There was also a focus on the Modern Defence Force, with Group Captain Wendy Horder (Royal Australian Air Force) from Aberdeen, Commodore Allison Norris (Royal Australian Navy), and Lieutenant General Susan Coyle (Australian Army).
The organising committee included students Zali Matzanke and Toby Kachur from St. Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton; Tyler Relf and Charlotte McGill from Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown; and Joshua Wolfson from the Aspire Program.
The Aspire Drama Ensemble included the following students.
Molly Drayton, St Mary’s Catholic College, Gateshead
Chloe Griffin, St Mary’s Catholic College, Gateshead
Ben He, St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton
Ivy Jones, Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown
Mia Kelly, Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown
Jackson O’Loughlin, St Bede’s Catholic College, Chisholm
Abbey Toshack, St Mary’s Catholic College, Gateshead
Mikayla Williams, St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton
Joshua Wolfson, Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown
ANZAC Day is a time for reflection, respect, and unity, and it was heartening to see our students come together to honour this significant occasion.
Your commitment to commemorating our history and paying tribute to our servicemen and women is truly appreciated.
Senior Leaders Retreat – Phase 3
Last week, 17 of our executive staff completed their final component of the Senior Leaders Retreat (We are Called and We are Challenged) on the peaceful grounds of St Joseph’s Spirituality and Education Centre in Kincumber. Over the past few days, the group had the pleasure of working with both Professor Br. David Hall (Dean of La Salle Academy, ACU) and RE&S, continuing to explore their roles as Catholic faith leaders. This 3-year program has seen this group journey together to examine the relevance of faith and the contested concept of the Catholic school as a faith community in postmodern, multicultural Australia. Their reflections and conversations demonstrated their unwavering dedication to Catholic education, as well as their commitment to making Jesus Christ known and loved by all members of their communities.
RE Scholarship Program 2025-2026
This year marks the introduction of a new initiative involving 24 staff members from our schools participating in the Religious Education Scholarship Program. This comprehensive two-year program, facilitated by BBI The Australian Institute of Theological Education (BBI-TAITE), will enable all participants to work towards a Graduate Certificate in Religious Education. The program is modelled on a cohort approach, with our staff journeying together in study and collaborative learning. Today marks the first face-to-face component of the program, during which participants will gather for two days. We wish them every success in their studies.
St James’ Primary School Muswellbrook and St Joseph’s College Aberdeen – School Visits.
I sincerely thank Aaron Moon, Veronica Rolfe, and their staff for their commitment to our students and the Muswellbrook and Aberdeen school communities. Your hard work, passion, and care shape not only the minds of our learners but also their character and future.
Our visit to St James underscored the school's commitment to its dual heritage, encouraging students and their families to incorporate the values and ideals of the charisms into their daily lives.
It was evident that the staff of St James work in partnership with their parents to recognise a shared vision and are focused on ongoing improvement. Students were confident in sharing their learning goals and gains and keenly showed off the new playground facilities, which include half-court basketball hoops.
Our visit to St Joseph’s Aberdeen was unique, showcasing the many and varied opportunities for the students in a rural setting. A highlight was the chance to speak to educators and students in VET and SBAT courses and see the agriculture setting in action, as students prepared cattle and alpacas for the Royal Easter Show.
Thank you for the vital role you play in creating a nurturing and inspiring learning environment. As we continue this journey together, I encourage you to take pride in the impact you make every day.
St James’ Primary School Muswellbrook
St Joseph’s College Aberdeen
As we approach the end of Term 1, I would like to take a moment to express my appreciation for your dedication, hard work, and commitment to the students in our schools. Your efforts have been instrumental in maintaining our standards of excellence and fostering a positive environment for our students.
I wish you all a happy holiday season and a joyful, peaceful Easter.
With my best wishes,
Jacqui
National Walk Safely to School Day is Week 3 Term 2. All information about this initiative can be found at : https://www.walk.com.au/WSTSD/. Schools are encouraged to be involved. There is TfNSW funding for 5 schools to plan this initiative which includes curriculum development. Please see attached flyer for details. Nominations close 11th April.
Please click here for Application Form
Moree 'Makaratta' Immersion - is currently open for registration in nmpeople, please use this link: Moree "Makaratta" Immersion
(4 DAYS, 3 NIGHTS) | 15 HOURS
This immersion experience explores the historical context of the massacres that occurred to the Aboriginal people in Myall Creek and reflects on the spiritual significance of the site.
During these days, participants will develop an appreciation of community engagement as a means of reconciliation, healing, and truth-telling.
Dates: Commences Monday 7 July 9am and concludes Thursday 10 July 3pm
Walking in truth, justice, love and hope
Contact: Jonathan McCallum | jon.mccallum@mn.catholic.edu.au
Read LessLET’S TALK LITURGY SERIES - Term 1: 10 April (330pm - 430pm) ONLINE Register via link: Let's Talk Liturgy
Join us for the new ‘Let’s Talk Liturgy’ series, where we’ll meet once a term online to discuss all things liturgy.
Each session will feature special guests who have extensive experience in the liturgical space,
offering unique insights and perspectives. All who are interested are welcome to attend.
Dates:
Term 1: 10 April (3.30pm - 4.30pm)
Term 2 : 3 July (3.30pm - 4.30pm)
Term 3: 21 Augusts (3.30pm - 4.30pm)
Term 4 : 20 November (3.30pm - 4.30pm)
Read LessThe da Vinci Decathlon is an academic competition designed to challenge and inspire high-achieving students in Years 5–10.
On the 1st April, our Years 7 and 8 Catholic Schools of Maitland-Newcastle teams competed in the first day of the 2025 da Vinci Decathlon at Bishop Tyrrell College. This rigorous academic competition challenged students across ten disciplines, all centred around this year’s theme: Sustainability.
Students worked collaboratively across Mathematics, English, Science, Code Breaking, Engineering, Ideation, Creative Producers, Art and Poetry, Cartography, and Legacy, applying their critical and creative thinking skills under competition conditions.
The team of high-ability students in each year group from across the diocese demonstrated exceptional problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience as they tackled complex challenges throughout the day.
Year 7 Team
Oliver McEwan St Paul's Catholic College, Booragul
Caine Platt St Paul's Catholic College, Booragul
Oliver McNally St Joseph's College, Lochinvar
Xavier Crosby St. Francis Xavier's College, Hamilton
Max Isbel St Clare's High School, Taree
Silas Keighran St Bede's Catholic College, Chisholm
William Studdert St Bede's Catholic College, Chisholm
Maya Hollaway All Saints' College, Maitland
The Year 7 Team achieved the following results –
1st Science
1st Code Breaking
2nd Engineering Challenge
2nd Ideation
2nd Cartography
3rd Mathematics
Overall, Second Place
Year 8 Team
Emmett Hayles Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown
Mia Keogh San Clemente Catholic College, Mayfield
Michael Bonanno St Clare's High School, Taree
Beau Vaughan St Clare's High School, Taree
Mitchell Daly St Joseph's College, Lochinvar
Harrison Mitchell San Clemente Catholic College, Mayfield
Ryan Lambert St Joseph's College, Lochinvar
Noah Keegan San Clemente Catholic College, Mayfield
Our Year 8 Team achieved the following results –
2nd Code Breaking
2nd Cartography
Congratulations are also extended to our school teams:
Year 7 Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown 2nd Mathematics
Year 7 Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown 3rd Science
Year 7 Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown 2nd Code Breaking
Year 7 Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown 2nd Legacy
Year 8 St Mary's Catholic College, Gateshead 3rd Code Breaking
Year 8 St Mary's Catholic College, Gateshead 2nd Art and Poetry
Thank you to the students, schools, and all support staff for fostering high potential and gifted education.
Another incredible day at the 2025 da Vinci Decathlon with our Catholic Schools Year 9 & 10 teams demonstrating outstanding problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity across ten disciplines!
Year 9 Team
Dominic Viogt St Bede's Catholic College, Chisholm
Neil Angelie (Lily) Obligado St Bede's Catholic College, Chisholm
George O’Neill All Saints' College, Maitland
Charlotte Head St Joseph's Catholic College, Aberdeen
Zachery Jay All Saints' College, Maitland
Malina Pruteanu San Clemente Catholic College, Mayfield
Mayah Lewis San Clemente Catholic College, Mayfield
Xanthe Shields San Clemente Catholic College, Mayfield
Year 10 Team
William Lawley St Joseph's Catholic College, Aberdeen
Nicholas Wright All Saints' College, Maitland
Chloe Douglass Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown
Toby Burg St Bede's Catholic College, Chisholm
Oliver Collins St Clare's High School, Tareee
Ivy Sternbeck St Paul's Catholic College, Booragul
Mia Millgate St Catherine's Catholic College, Singleton
Hayden Searl All Saints' College, Maitland
Results
Year 9
2nd – Art and Poetry
Year 10
1st – Mathematics
1st – English
3rd – Code Breaking
3rd – Cartography
School Team Achievements
Year 9 Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown
1st – Mathematics
1st – Engineering
1st – Legacy
Year 10 Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown
1st – Creative Producers
1st – Art & Poetry
1st – Code Breaking
1st – Legacy
2nd – Ideation
2nd – Cartography
Overall Year 10 Champions – Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown
Year 10 St Mary's Catholic College, Gateshead
1st – Engineering (B team)
3rd – Engineering (A team)
3rd – Ideation
3rd – Creative Producers
A huge thank you to our students for their dedication, our teachers for their guidance, and parents for your support and encouragement. An incredible effort from all involved over both days!
Our Years 5 & 6 teams have wrapped up an exciting day at the 2025 da Vinci Decathlon, showcasing their problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork across ten challenging disciplines!
Year 5 Team
William Brown St John's Primary School, Lambton
Callan Nash St Kevin's Primary School, Cardiff
Sebastian Reddie St Patrick's Primary School, Swansea
Thomas Rapley St James' Primary School, Kotara South
Oliver Bancroft Holy Family Primary School, Merewether Beach
Hugo Grant St Patrick’s Cessnock
Ethan Martin St John the Baptist Primary School, Maitland
Ogni Anondo St Joseph's Primary School, Charlestown
Year 6
Eli Smith St Joseph's Primary School, Charlestown
Nicholas Johns St Joseph's Primary School, East Maitland
Indiana Batten Corpus Christi Primary School, Waratah
Eddie Dowdell Holy Family Primary School, Merewether Beach
Evan Tissera St Joseph's Primary School, Merewether
Christian Jackson St Aloysius Catholic Primary School, Chisholm
Daniel Boulton St Joseph's Primary School, Charlestown
Isabella Cashman St Joseph's Primary School, Charlestown
Results
Year 5
1st – Science
Year 6
2nd – Engineering Challenge
2nd – Art & Poetry
3rd – Science
School Team Achievements
Year 6 St Mary’s Warners Bay
1st – Mathematics
1st – Science
A fantastic effort from all students, demonstrating high potential and gifted learning in action!
A huge thank you to all students, staff, and families for their support! These achievements reflect the dedication, resilience, and talent of our teams. Well done!
Read Less
Please be advised that the AEDC data will not be released on Monday 31st March. As you would have seen, the date for the Federal Election has been announced and the Australian Government departments are now in a caretaker period.
We will be informed about a new possible release date after the election.
AEDC NSW 2025 Symposium
The AEDC NSW are hosting the AEDC Research Symposium 2025 for key stakeholders on Wednesday 18th June.
The symposium information has been updated on the event page.
The AEDC NSW Research Symposium 2025 aims to raise awareness of the value of the AEDC data, the 2024 data outcomes for NSW and Australia and create an opportunity for various stakeholders to come together and reflect on the evidence.
Date: Wednesday 18 June 2025 (online and face-to-face)
Time: 8:30 am – 3:30pm
Theme: Shaping futures – the impact of the AEDC on early years education
Target Audience: School leaders and teachers, Early childhood leaders and educators, Child and family community stakeholders, AEDC data users and researchers.
Cost: This event is free to attend.
For more information, including a list of guest speakers, refer to AEDC NSW Research Symposium 2025 website and the attached flyer and agenda.
Please contact Bridie (bridie.stanger@mn.catholic.edu.au) Education Officer – Early Learning if you have any questions.
For added safety and security, Catholic Schools NSW (CSNSW) is changing the way teaching staff login to the NETiD system.
From 14 April 2025, teaching staff across the Diocese will access NETiD through a Single Sign On (SSO) process in line with other Diocesan systems (eg. Compass).
This will provide a more effective and efficient process and make it simpler for users.