Catholic schools share in the Christian vision that every human person has the inherent dignity of being created in the image and likeness of God. Together, we strive to ensure each person has the opportunity to flourish. As a Catholic school we believe that each unique person is to be loved, appreciated, cherished and respected and that everyone has an indispensable part to play in our community, regardless of difference. We also see each member of our community holistically, rather than seeking to define them by just one aspect of their identity. We have and will continue to care for and walk alongside all our families and their children as they grow and mature spiritually, emotionally, socially, intellectually and physically in a way that is inclusive and accepting of all.

As a school, we have received some questions lately about our approach to diversity and inclusion. In light of this, I felt it was important to take the opportunity to clarify and clearly articulate what our core values are in this space and how those values inform the work we do and the kinds of relationships we strive to build with all of our staff, students and families. 

We are always looking for ways to address issues responsibly and to encourage open, respectful communication. I would like all our families to know that if you ever have a concern or worry about something you have seen, heard or experienced in our school, I would always encourage you to raise those concerns or ask those questions directly in conversation with us. It is my strong belief that listening to one another and working together is the best way to continually make our community better. Open, frank and constructive dialogue is always the best way forward in every situation.  

Ultimately, as a community of faith, what we strive to do each day is to witness to the love of God through our care, respect and love for everyone in our community. We are all human of course, and therefore, we won’t always get it right. But at the heart of all we do is a deep desire to ensure everyone feels welcome and included in our school. It is my hope that we can keep working together to make this a daily reality.

Angela Myles | Executive Principal

It has been a very busy term and everyone is looking forward to a rest and an opportunity to recharge. The end of Term 3 is always bittersweet as we farewell our Year 12 cohort - many faces we are used to seeing in the playground since their kindergarten years. We will miss our 2024 cohort and the vibrancy and leadership they all displayed in their unique ways and the massive contributions they have mnade to our school community. Echoing the sentiments from their Graduation Mass and Graduation Presentation held on Wednesday night - we thank them and wish them all the best for their upcoming HSC examinations. 

Many years ago when I graduated from Year 12, a central theme in our Stage coordinator’s speech was a sentiment I often reflect upon in times such as these…

 “A Ship is safe in the harbour but that’s not what ships are for.”

I trust our Year 12 students will call upon the values of the St Matthews Way during this time of change- especially the courage to take opportunities and to be brave to step out of their comfort zones to find their life path that will excite and fullfil them.Our prayers and thoughts are with them as they navigate their future paths. 

I wish everyone a happy and safe holiday and look forward to seeing everyone back on our first day of school on Monday 14 October.

Blaney McCarthy- English | Head of Campus

Year 12 Mass and Morning Tea with Parish Prayer Partners

On Tuesday, September 24, our Year 12 students gathered at St. Mary’s Church to celebrate the Eucharist with their Parish prayer partners. It has been heart-warming to witness the relationships between the students and their prayer partners grow, with the students deeply valuing the prayers and support they’ve received throughout the year.

Following the Mass, everyone enjoyed a lovely morning tea, generously provided by the Parish community. This time together gave students the opportunity to personally thank their prayer partners for the encouragement and prayers they’ve offered. 

We extend our sincere thanks to the Parish prayer partners for their kindness and generosity, and we wish our Year 12 students all the best as they embark on the next stage of their lives, carrying with them the prayers of their Parish and our school community.

Year 12 Graduation Mass

This week, our Year 12 students gathered for their Graduation Mass, a beautiful and reflective celebration marking the end of their school journey. Surrounded by staff, families, and friends, the students expressed gratitude for the experiences that have shaped their time with us and the values they have embraced.

We hope that the St. Matthew’s values of —excellence, respect, courage, compassion, and service—will continue to guide them throughout their lives. These principles have shaped their academic and personal growth, inspiring them to strive for excellence, treat others with kindness, face challenges with courage, and serve their community with love.

As our Year 12 students move forward into the next chapter of their lives, we pray they carry these values with them, confident that they are well-equipped to make a positive impact in the world. We wish them all the best for the future.

IGNITE

On Thursday September 26, four of our students travelled to Sydney to take part in the IGNITE conference. They will be part of the Diocesan youth attending the event. This will give them a chance to connect with friends they have made from previous youth events.

Ignite Conference is a gathering of Catholics for four days of real-world formation, renewal of faith, great people and powerful worship. Over 2000 high schoolers, young adults, leaders, teachers, priests and religious will take part in this life changing encounter with God and His Church.

​Thank you to Mr Neaverson-Smith for his generosity in accompanying the students and giving up part of his holiday to do so.

Pope’s Prayer Intention

October: For a Shared Mission 

Pope Francis asks for prayers so that the Church

“continues to support a synodal way of life, under the sign of co-responsibility, promoting participation, communion, and shared mission among priests, religious, and laypeople.”

Belinda Redden | Leader of Mission

Please see information and link below to a fantastic webinar regarding AI Deepfakes.

AI Deepfakes: What Every Parent Needs to Know webinar.

Flexischools is St Matthews Catholic Schools preferred way to order from our canteens. The cut-off time is 9am, please allow yourself enough time to complete an order. An order can be placed the night before or even days in advance.

If parents are experiencing issues with Flexischools, please contact Flexischools directly using the Parent Help Line Number- 1300 361 769 (8am-12pm)

Orders that are phoned through via reception after 9am will be offered a simple sandwich, a drink and snacks only (No Hot Food will be offered, so please do not ask). Credit Card details must be provided at the time, no exceptions. This ensures no further follow up for payment is required.

We have a smaller menu that is available over the counter every day but our more comprehensive menu is online. For over the counter purchases we accept cash and Eftpos.

All our food is freshly made on site and we are committed to use locally sourced ingredients.

Mary Holdsworth 

Secondary Canteen Manager