The past fortnight has been extremely busy with lots of events and opportunities for our students to engage in - because of this we deliberately held back on the newsletter so that we could include all the activities that have taken place during this time.

The junior public speaking competition via zoom on Monday started this week off, followed by our Subject Selection Expo and Information Evening for  Year 10 students and their parents. Thursday we had our 2026 Student Leadership Day as well as hosting the first Orientation Day for the incoming year 7 students. Our Agricultural students have been involved in 2 events - this week representing St Matthews at the Dubbo Sheep Show - again enjoying many successes. A Big thank you to Mr Neaverson - Smith and Mrs Judith Rohr for accompanying the students at the 3 day event.

Week 3 Assembly

Our Assembly last week was also reflective of the busy start to the term we’ve had and was a great opportunity to recognise so many students' positive contributions to St Matthews either through their commitment to learning, on the sporting field, or service to others. In particular it was great to have an opportunity to recognise the wonderful academic achievements of our students across 7 -11 at the Semester 1 Academic Excellence Awards demonstrating one of our important values, and the St Matthews Way. It was particularly pleasing to see so many parents having the opportunity to join us at our Assembly to recognise these students.

During the Assembly we also had the opportunity to hear from our exchange students Jade and Ernestina. They were very brave and did an amazing job at addressing the whole student body to discuss the differences from our school and their own, what they have loved about Mudgee and Sydney and the benefits of the exchange program in general. Host Milla in Year 11 should also be congratulated, for not only opening up her home but for preparing the girls for our Assembly.

Leadership Process

Yesterday we had a wonderful day with our Year 11 students at the Leadership Day.

We congratulate those students who are nominated for a leadership position - putting themselves out there takes a lot of courage - another important St Matthews Way value. They all should be very proud of themselves. Well done to those students who have progressed, we wish you all the best of luck throughout the process.

Whilst not every student will be elected into a formal leadership role, we work to  empower and inspire all seniors to lead our school community. All Year 12 students should endeavor to lead with exemplary behaviour, demonstrating the St Matthews Way. It may seem cliche, and be little compensation for those who are disappointed at this time - but you truly don’t need a badge to be a leader.

Student Driving & safe use of carpark Communication to parents

Last week I sent a letter to all senior parents in regards to the safe use of our student car park, and students driving to school in general. Please take the time to read the letter and discuss with your child the privilege of driving to school, and the importance of safety at all times. I copy of the letter can be found following the link below:

Subject Selection EXPO

Thank you to all the parents who supported their Year 10 student in attending our 2026 Year 11 Subject Selection EXPO and Information Night earlier this week. It was wonderful to see so many students genuinely engaging in the process with their teachers and parents in what is an exciting and important time. The maturity and discernment students are demonstrating towards determining their senior pattern of study is to be commended.

We are also grateful to Mr Stephen Mitchell - School consultant and VET manager from the CEDB who helped guide students through a Vocational Education and Training (VET) and SBAT pathway. His time, expertise and experience was invaluable. A reminder to students interested in a VET pathway or engaging in an SBAT as a part of their pattern of study should see Mr Neaverson - Smith for further information, forms and timelines.

Blaney McCarthy-English | Head of Campus - Secondary