As you know, as St Matthews we see our high standard of uniform as one of the many important factors that contributes to our culture of excellence. It is my belief that, when students take pride in how they present themselves, it has a flow on effect to the pride they take in their school work and their life at school more broadly.

Our current uniform policy guides the decisions we make each day regarding how to maintain this high standard. The policy has been in place since 2015 and is, therefore, definitely due for review.  Reflecting on and reviewing a significant policy such as this requires a broad consultation process and an opportunity for all stakeholders to contribute to the discussion. Over the remainder of this year, therefore, we will be engaging in a comprehensive process to gather feedback on our current Uniform Policy and discern any modifications or updates that may be warranted. Please note, we are not proposing a change of uniform. We are only conducting a review of the policy regarding how the uniform is to be worn.

The formal consultation process will commence in June and will involve the distribution of surveys to families, students, staff and parishioners as well as the formation of various focus groups to provide the opportunity to listen to the views of key stakeholders. This will be followed by the establishment of a working party who will be responsible for reflecting on the feedback and identifying issues for consideration. The intention is to have any proposed changes to the policy clarified by the end of this school year with the new policy to be published and implemented at the commencement of the 2025 school year. 

Please keep an eye out for further communication about this policy review process. I strongly encourage all families to take the opportunity to contribute to the discussion on this important part of our school culture.

God bless

Angela Myles | Executive Principal 

Our Catholic Faith

The Council of Catholic School Parents has released its 2024 handbook, Our Catholic Faith, to assist parents and families in understanding the Catholic beliefs, celebrations, and prayers that form the foundation of Catholic schools. It serves as a resource for all parents, especially those unfamiliar with Catholic traditions, offering insights into the basics of Catholic beliefs, celebrations, symbols, and prayers. The handbook can be found here to read more on the CCSP website.

CSYMA

On Friday May 31, ten Year 9 students elected to commence the CSYMA (Catholic Schools Youth Ministry Australia) course. Students come out of their Religious Education class for one lesson per fortnight to train as youth leaders.

Through CSYMI students have an exciting opportunity to progress in leadership of peers and leadership of school spiritual activities. Multi-media presentations, retreat team training and a knowledge of the Catholic Church’s teachings are key components taught in CSYMA units of work.

https://csymi.com/about

Synod Consultation - Bathurst

What is the aim of this Synod?

“This Synod is intended as a Synodal Process. The aim of this synodal process is not to provide a temporary or one-time experience of synodality, but rather to provide an opportunity for the entire People of God to discern together how to move forward on the path towards being a more synodal Church in the long-term.

A basic question prompts and guides us: How does this journeying together allow the Church to proclaim the Gospel in accordance with the mission entrusted to Her; and what steps does the Spirit invite us to take in order to grow as a synodal Church?”

https://www.synod.va/en/the-synod-on-synodality/what-is-the-synod-about.html

The Australian Summary Report and Diocesan Testimonies have now been published. A copy of these can be found on the Diocesan website: https://bathurst.catholic.org.au/synod-on-synodality/

Pope Francis' Prayer Intention for June

Pope Francis during a General Audience. Credit: Daniel Ibanez / EWTN Vatican

 

Each month, Pope Francis asks Catholics around the world to pray for a specific intention.

June: For Those Fleeing Their Country

Pope Francis dedicates June to praying “for migrants fleeing wars or hunger, forced into journeys full of danger and violence, to find acceptance and new life opportunities in their host countries.”

   

RISE 2024

 

Belinda Redden| Leader of Mission  

Our staff will be working with the team from Real Schools on developing our approach to restorative practices at school during the pupil free day on Friday 6th June.

The following article explores the role of the brain and how that can influence the choices and response from the young people in your life. 

Dillon Price | Leader of Wellbeing

Congratulations Mrs Jacinda Tink - Transition Coordinator

Mrs Jacinda Tink has been recently appointed as the Transition and Pathways  Coordinator for the remainder of 2024 whilst I step into the Head of Campus role. I know that Jacinda will bring her infamous energy and organisational skills to the role and work well with the students helping them navigate their different pathways. Congratulations Mrs Tink!

HSC Subject Seminars through the University of Newcastle

As part of the Early Entry Program at the University of Newcastle, students are  invited to register and attend the HSC Support webinars.

UoN have partnered with Inspiration ED to bring Year 12 students a series of free webinars that are run by HSC teachers and markers, and will cover the construction of exemplar responses, use critical analysis skills and give you the chance to ask any questions.

These webinars are a gateway to unlocking academic success with expert insights and practical advice in the lead up to the HSC trial exams delves into effective study techniques, exam hacks, and strategies for excelling. Register using the link below.

HSC Subject Seminars

University of Newcastle - Early Entry Scheme Now Open

The University of Newcastle’s Early Entry Program is for domestic Year 12 students completing either the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC)  in 2024.

Early entry takes into account your Year 11 results, allowing you to secure an offer before your exams begin.

"When you apply for the free Early Entry Program, we connect you with learning resources that will guide you towards successfully completing your final year at school, and leadership and networking opportunities that focus on collaboration and engagement. An early offer to the University of Newcastle secures your place and provides you with certainty at a stressful time."

There are 3 ‘rounds’ to be considered for an early offer. Refer to the website here for further details.

Closes 29 August (Day 1 offers) - Offers release 5 September

Closes 12 September (Day 2 offers)- Offers released 19 September

Closes 26 September (Day 3)- Offers Released 4 October

University of Newcastle Accommodation

The UoN offers a range of accommodation options - with guaranteed offers for students gaining an early offer. For full details on accommodation options, criteria and key dates follow the link University of Newcastle Accommodation

University of Wollongong - Early Admissions Open 17 June

Check out the Early Admission key dates and criteria on their website here

Univertsity of Wollongong Information session - 20 June Mudgee

The University of Wollongong are inviting families of Year 12 students to join them at their  upcoming regional Parents and Carers Info Sessions hosted in Mudgee.

Parents and Careers have the opportunity to hear from knowledgeable university staff and current students, covering a range of different topics to assist you in supporting your child through their transition from high school to university.

Tuesday 20 June - Follow the link to register for the event

UoW Parent Information Session - Mudgee

Univertsity of NSW Early Entry Scheme Information

Please follow the link for information about the University of NSW - Early Offer schemes. As always please come and see me if you need further help.

 UNSW Early Admissions Link

Macquarie University - Early Entry ‘Leaders & Achievers’ - Apply NOW (first round cloises 26 July)

You could receive an early entry offer to study at Macquarie if you have performed well academically in Year 11 and demonstrate leadership skills, personal development and dedication through your extracurricular activities.

To find out important dates and more about the Leaders and Achievers Early Entry scheme follow the link below.

Apply before 26 July to be considered for Round 1;

Apply before 30 August to be considered for Round 2.

NIDA Open Day - Saturday 15 June

NIDA Open Day returns on Saturday 15 June, from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Open Day is an opportunity to learn about NIDA's courses in the Bachelor of Fine Arts and Diploma programs, meet our expert teaching staff and our talented students and alumni, tour the world-class facilities, see our students in live productions on stage and in behind-the-scenes roles, and discover why NIDA produces some of the world’s most in-demand storytellers across stage, screen and beyond.

If you have students or contacts that are interested in a creative career and want to explore possibilities in the performing and dramatic arts, then don't miss NIDA Open Day 2024

Register here

Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) Parents page - Stay informed

As Year 12 moves into this important phase of their schooling, many students

are starting to think of life after school. There are many pathways open to our students and one is further study at university. For many parents this process can be daunting particularly if they did not attend university themselves. The University Admissions Centre (UAC) has a page dedicated to parents to help navigate them through the process so they are better equipped to help their student. Link here

UAC Key Dates for Year 12 students

Blaney McCarthy - English | Leader of Transition & Pathways

Last week in History, Year 10 studied censorship in Nazi Germany as part of their study of the Holocaust.

They explored this concept through a case study - the infamous book burning of 1933 - and later were asked to use Heinrich Heine’s eerie quote “where books are burned, in the end people will be burned” in a creative piece of their choosing.

Students have been engaged and fascinated by this topic all term and as a result, they have produced some great work along the way.

Mrs Croake and Mr Hammond | HSIE Teachers 

Athletics Carnival

This year's Athletics Carnival was once again a tremendous success, showcasing the extraordinary talents and sportsmanship of our students. Participants competed passionately in a variety of events, including:

• 100m
• 200m
• 400m
• 800m
• 1500m
• Long Jump
• Triple Jump
• High Jump
• Shot Put
• Discus
• Javelin

Students demonstrated exceptional prowess in each event, leading to numerous remarkable performances and success stories.

We are proud to announce the Age Champions for this year's carnival, who excelled across multiple events and achieved outstanding results:

Congratulations to all the athletes for their dedication, effort, and sportsmanship. Your hard work has made this year's carnival an unforgettable event. Let's continue to strive for excellence and we look forward to seeing their success at the Diocesan Athletics Carnival on Thursday 22 August.

CCC Soccer

On the 27th and 28th of May, Isaac and Sarah had the honour of representing the Bathurst Diocese at the CCC Football (Soccer) Championship. Both students showcased exceptional skill and sportsmanship, making our school proud with their outstanding performances.

Isaac and Sarah not only played exceptionally well but also demonstrated remarkable dedication and a keen willingness to learn. The experience at this high level of soccer competition has undoubtedly contributed to their growth as athletes.

Congratulations to both studemts for their selection and commendable performance. Your achievements are a testament to your hard work and passion for the sport. Keep up the fantastic work!

Emma Nicholls | Secondary Sport Coordinator 

2024 School’s Cup Netball Dubbo

On Thursday 30th May three St Matthews teams travelled to Dubbo to compete in the Netball Schools Cup. All students displayed excellent sportsmanship and determination to showcase their netball skills. 

The Year 7/8 Girls team finished in third place, narrowly missing out on second place. They finished the day with five wins and two losses, with many of these games being decided by 1 or 2 goals. In all games, the students displayed excellent leadership and teamwork. 

Against strong competition the Year 9/10 Girls team won six games with a narrow loss to Dubbo College to finish in second place. The execution and finesse of the St Matthews attack showcased their remarkable skills. Whilst the defence end was able to effectively shut down the opponent's attack. 

The Year 9/10 Boys team won four games and had one loss to St Johns College Dubbo. The speed and agility of the boys team proved difficult for their opponents to match. Due to their excellent points differential the boys team was able to finish in second place. Both the Year 9/10 Girls and Year 9/10 Boys team will progress to the next stage of the NSW Schools Cup at Orange later in the year. 

A special thanks to Mrs Tink for finalising team plays and positions, as well as Mrs Croake and Mrs McCarney for taking the students away. Special mention to Lily (Year 9) who came away to umpire across all three teams- she was amazing.

We are looking forward to helping each team improve through training here at school to ensure they experience more success at the next level.

Mrs Croake and Mrs McCarney | PDPHE Netball Coaches

Country Cup Rugby League

The Country Cup Rugby League competition held in Dubbo on June 4th was a successful day for the St Matthews 13s, 15s and OPEN Teams. 

Opens Team

The Opens team, coached by Todd Durrant had a challenging but rewarding day of competition. They showed great skill and courage in their games. The team was successful against Dubbo Senior campus with a score of 12-6 and lost against St Johns (18-6) and Red Bend (12-0), despite the losses the team was competitive. Strong performance of the forwards, led by Harrison Smith and Toby Forrester was crucial in gaining ground. In one play, Riley Durrant made a great kick in play, allowing Harry Briggs  to run through, collect the ball, and pass it off for Jesse Weaver to score under the post, was a stand out moment. Cody Flynn consistently defended, putting his body on the line, despite facing larger opponents was commendable.

The 15 Years Team

The U15 team performed courageously throughout the day. Charlie McKid and Thomas Briggs made strong runs through the middle against some much larger opponents. Bailey Fehon showed immense individual talent against Dubbo South, catching a kick off and running through the opposing team to score under the post. The play was controlled throughout the day with the patient and decision making of Jack Stoddart from dummy half position. The boys came away with a win and two losses against St Johns and Red Bend. A great day out with a great group of young men.

St Matthews 13 Years Team Triumphs at Country Cup

The Country Cup competition held in Dubbo on June 4th was a day of victory for the St Matthews 13 years team. The team showcased their skills and teamwork, leading to a successful day with impressive results, defeating  St Johns Dubbo 10-4, Dubbo South 16-0 and Macquarie Anglican College 36-0. Throughout the day, the team demonstrated exceptional performance. Standout performances from Jake McElligott and Bill Holden braking the defensive line on multiple times. Excellent vision by key play maker Tyce Pettitt created opportunities on the edges, leading to Max Clark scoring 4 tries for the day.   The forwards lead through the middle with strong hit ups by Diezel Fitzgerald and Morgan Turner.  Roy Maskey made some try-saving tackles on the edges and showed excellent ball skills.

In the final match, the 13 years team faced Red Bend College. The St Matthews team emerged victorious, winning the final 14-6.

This victory means the students will advance to the next round of competition in Parkes on the 18th of June. We congratulate the team on their success and wish them the best for the upcoming matches.

The success of the St Matthews teams at the Country Cup Rugby League competition is a testament to their skill, teamwork, and the coaching staff. Thanks to Mr Todd Durrant (Opens Coach), Robert McKid (15s Coach) and Shane Pettitt and Jamie Fitzgerald (13s Coach) for the time given up their time to prepare and coach the teams at the carnival.  

Brooke Colley | PDHPE KLA Coordinator 

Kirsty Skinner | CAPA Coordinator 

Student Book Group

The Student book group met in week 5 to discuss the book If not us by Australian Author Mark Smith. The group engaged in lots of discussion about the book and there were some mixed responses to the book to do with characters and plot. 

The book follows Hesse who lives in  a small coastal town, where a coal mine and power station are a part of the scenery, and a part of the ever-growing problem of climate change. His mum is a member of a local environmental group campaigning to close the mine and shut down the power station. It’s a no-brainer, of course, but Hesse is more interested in surfing—and in Fenna, the new exchange student from the Netherlands.

The Students had mixed reviews of the novel:

Sam - didn't like the plot and environment focus 2/5 stars

Abi - Too environment focus ½ /5 stars

Lizzie - Boring plot 1/5 stars

Lilly - thought the story was sweet, loved the love story between Hesse and Fenne 4/5 stars

If you are interested in joining our student book group please see Mrs Sugden.

Mrs Sugden | Teacher/Librarian

The Council of Catholic School Parents has released its 2024 handbook, Our Catholic Faith, to assist parents and families in understanding the Catholic beliefs, celebrations, and prayers that form the foundation of Catholic schools. 

It serves as a resource for all parents, especially those unfamiliar with Catholic traditions, offering insights into the basics of Catholic beliefs, celebrations, symbols, and prayers.

The handbook can be found here to read more on the CCSP website.