Dear Colleagues,

26th Annual Diverse Learning Mass – Wednesday 3 September at Sacred Heart Cathedral

It was my great pleasure to gather with Bishop Michael Kennedy, alongside students, parents, educators, families, and friends for the 26th Annual Mass Celebrating Diverse Learning held on Wednesday evening- a celebration of inclusion, compassion, and the boundless potential that lives within every learner, especially those who are differently abled.

This mass unites our shared belief: that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and uplifted. It has enabled us to honour the dignity of diverse learners—not by focusing on limitations, but by embracing their unique gifts and the light they bring to our communities.

I offer my recognition to all who walk this journey.

To our educators and support staff: thank you for your tireless dedication, your creativity, and your unwavering commitment to nurturing both minds and hearts.

To our parents and carers: thank you for your courage, your advocacy, and your steadfast devotion to your children and to our schools.

And to our students—those who inspired the Mass. Your resilience, your joy, and your spirit remind us that learning is not a race, but a winding road, sometimes uncharted with unexpected twists and turns, often surprising, featuring magical detours and celebrated milestones. You help us see the world not just as it is, but as it could be—more hopeful, more inclusive, more tolerant, more patient, and more loving.

Together, may we create a world where every learner is joyfully acknowledged and truly belongs.

The school communities within the Holy Trinity Blackbutt North Parish and All Saints Blackbutt South Parish, as well as St Dominic’s Catholic College, lead the celebration, which included the following schools:

• St Dominic’s, Mayfield
• St John’s, Lambton
• St Therese’s New Lambton
• St Columba’s Adamstown
• St Kevin’s, Cardiff
• Corpus Christi, Waratah
• St James’ Kotara South
• Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown

Groundbreaking Ceremony celebrates next step for Catherine McAuley Primary School, Medowie

On Tuesday 2^nd September, the official groundbreaking ceremony took place at the site of Catherine McAuley Primary School in Medowie, marking a significant milestone for our Catholic Schools. The new school will become part of the Medowie Education precinct, alongside Catherine McAuley Catholic College and St Nicholas Early Education, creating an educational route designed to support families across the region. The new school underscores our commitment to serving the needs of a growing population and offering more opportunities for Catholic education in the Port Stephens area.

Catherine McAuley Primary School will provide students with a purpose-built, faith-filled learning environment that fosters their academic, social, and spiritual development. The project demonstrates our commitment to providing families with access to high-quality Catholic education, grounded in strong values and a deep sense of community.

 

Celebrating 150 Years of Catholic Education at St Catherine’s College Singleton

On Monday, 1^st September, I had the pleasure of joining the celebrations at the St Catherine’s Catholic College. The community joyfully came together to celebrate 150 years of Catholic education in Singleton. Students, staff, families, and parishioners united for a liturgy, reflection, and celebration to mark this historic milestone.

This event offered a meaningful chance to honour the deep-rooted tradition of faith and learning that has influenced many generations, while also looking ahead with hope and enthusiasm for the future of Catholic education in the Singleton area.

 

School Support Recognition Week 2025

This week, some of our Diocesan schools have participated in the DET’s celebrations of School Support Recognition Week 2025. This dedicated week highlights the invaluable contributions of school support staff—those behind the scenes who play a vital role in creating safe, inclusive, and thriving learning environments for both students and staff. From administrative officers and learning support assistants to maintenance teams and IT professionals, these individuals are the backbone of our schools. Their commitment, care, and tireless efforts ensure that every school day runs smoothly and that students receive support in all aspects of their educational journey. This week is not only a time to express our gratitude but also to recognise the professionalism, dedication, and heart that school support staff bring to their roles. Their work often goes unseen, but its impact is deeply felt. We take this opportunity to thank and uplift these essential members of our school communities. Their contributions matter, and we want them to know just how much they are appreciated.

Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary 

On September 8, the Catholic Church celebrates the birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God!

This feast day is celebrated exactly nine months after the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on December 8.

Be sure to honour Our Lady and wish her a Happy Birthday as we look to her as our Spiritual Mother!

National Child Protection Week 2025 will take place from Sunday, 7 September, to Saturday, 13 September. 

The event, coordinated by the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN), will focus on the theme "Every conversation matters: Shifting conversation to action" to encourage meaningful steps to strengthen child protection and create safer environments for children. 

The week invites Australians to contribute to promoting the safety and well-being of children and young people.

Annual School Visits 

I sincerely thank Dani Reed and Niamh Marzol, along with their staff, for their dedication to our students and the Edgeworth and Lochinvar schools’ communities.

St Benedict’s Primary School, Edgeworth

St Benedict’s shared their insightful focus on student goal setting, integrating it as a meaningful process to inform and improve student reporting. They highlighted how student data is being used intentionally across learning areas to monitor progress. A strong and consistent approach to data was straightforward, guiding future directions, promoting collaboration, and strengthening teamwork among teachers.

The school also showcased their holistic use of wellbeing data, promoting a shared sense of care and support. Their commitment to a collective approach was evident in the way data is shared to ensure every student is known, supported, and valued. The school’s dedication to student well-being was further reflected in its ongoing review and consolidation of PB4L practices, with a strong focus on consistent implementation and continuous improvement.

St Patrick’s Primary School, Lochinvar

It was a delight for me to attend the Annual School Visit for St Patrick’s Lochinvar, to be reacquainted with staff and students and witness the many developments being implemented. The executive and staff team are clearly dedicated to innovative learning practices and wellbeing initiatives, maintaining their focus on student outcomes. Thank you for the very warm welcome back!

St Patrick’s demonstrated a strong focus on analysing data and using multiple datasets to triangulate and effectively respond to student needs. Their commitment to consistent, school-wide practices was clear—particularly in implementing effective programs aligned with the new syllabus. Using data and reflective practice, there was a commendable effort to continually refine their approaches, ensuring high-quality teaching and learning.

The school also highlighted their strong commitment to student well-being, noting the review and relaunch of the PB4L framework, guided by meaningful data insights. A clear and commendable emphasis was placed on aligning PB4L with Josephite values and the Make Jesus Real initiative, creating a cohesive and values-driven approach. The school’s work to strengthen wellbeing structures and implement a clear, tiered support model reflects a deep dedication to consistency, shared responsibility, and ensuring every student is known and supported.

With my best wishes,

Jacqui