St Agnes

Catholic High School

Week 3 newsletter term 1

Dear Parents and Carers

Welcome to 2024. I hope that it has been a good start to the year for your sons and daughters; the beginning of the school year has been busy, as reflected in this newsletter. In the first few weeks, our student leaders have been planning some great activities for our school community.

At St Agnes, we believe that student self-efficacy is critical for our students to flourish and reach their potential. Our wellbeing programs, as well as the teaching and learning programs, have this outcome as a priority. I encourage our students to believe in their abilities and not be afraid of giving things a go.

Importance of Student Self-Efficacy

Student self-efficacy refers to a student's belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish specific tasks. This belief has a significant impact on a student's academic and personal life.

Student self-efficacy:

1. Determines academic achievement: students with high levels of self-efficacy set higher goals for themselves, persist in the face of challenges, and ultimately achieve greater academic success.
2. Improves mental health: students with high levels of self-efficacy have higher levels of self-esteem and are less likely to experience anxiety or depression leading to improved mental health and overall well-being.
3. Promotes resilience: when students believe in their abilities, they will bounce back from setbacks and failures, developing resilience and promoting a growth mindset.
4. Enhances motivation: students who believe in their abilities are motivated to put in the effort and take on challenges, leading to greater engagement in learning and a more positive attitude towards school.
5. Supports career development: when students believe in their ability to succeed, they pursue challenging careers and achieve their long-term goals

Self-efficacy requires a growth mindset which leads to better learning outcomes because it allows students to embrace challenges, persist through obstacles and learn from feedback. When a student believes that their abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work, they put in the effort required to learn and improve. They view mistakes and failures as opportunities to learn, rather than as evidence of their limitations. This leads to greater resilience, motivation and achievement in the long term.

CEDP System Leadership Day

on 25th January

The St Agnes Leadership Team attended a system leadership conference led by our Executive Director, Jack De Groot. More than 600 leaders from Catholic schools across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains met at Parramatta to prepare for the school year. The day had a strong focus on collaboration and supporting children, young people and their families to flourish in Western Sydney.

Opening School Mass and Commissioning

of School Leaders and New Teachers

On Friday, 9th February, we celebrated our Opening School Mass at Our Lady Queen of the Family, Blacktown. At this Mass we welcomed Year 7 students to the St Agnes community with the distribution and blessing of the Tau Cross. St Francis gave a Tau Cross to the Friars when they became part of their community and for our students, it is a symbol welcoming them to our community.

During this Mass we also commissioned and welcomed our student Portfolio Leaders. I would like to congratulate these Leaders. Being a leader means being of service to others in our community and I encouraged our new student leaders to use St Francis as their guide by the way they live the Gospel teachings. St Agnes also embodied leadership because she stood up for what she believed. Our student leaders need to be a role model for all students at St Agnes, working to the best of their ability and demonstrating pride in being a student at St Agnes.

Portfolio Leaders elected for 2024 are:

Thank you to those who participated in our Opening School Mass. School Masses are an important celebration for our community. They are a huge event to organise and I would like to especially thank:

Mr Madigan for organising and coordinating this Mass.

Mr Sadsad for his assistance with the opening Mass.

Ms D’Aprille and Mr Cecire for leading the Choir and Band.

Ms Vincent for designing and creating the Tau Crosses given to our Year 7 students.

Mr Khan and the IT department for their assistance with our celebration.

Ms O’Keefe for organising the badges.

Ms Contogeorge for all the behind the scenes work to ensure that transport for the day ran smoothly.

Mrs Bettiol for taking the photographs.

New Staff

I would like to welcome the new staff who commenced at the beginning of 2024. Due to our increase in enrolments, the number of staff has increased. We had an opportunity to officially welcome our new staff members during our Opening Mass where we blessed and commissioned our new teachers and support staff.

They include:

Mrs Blinman -Learning Support

Mrs Maloney - Learning Support

Mrs McGovern - TAS

Mrs Sharman - Library/English

Mrs Ayden - Library/English

Mr Green - PDHPE

Mr Bortoluzzi - CAPA

Mrs Balasuriya - Music/LOTE

Mr Fonua - LOTE/PDHPE

Mrs Dela Paz - Diversity

Miss Clavarino - TAS/VART Assistant

Miss Lourey - Science Assistant

Miss Norton - Learning Support

Miss Abi Chemouni - Learning Support

Mrs Al Haider - Counsellor

Mr Talbot - IT Support

Mr O’Dwyer - IT Support

Ash Wednesday

On 14th February each Stage participated in an Ash Wednesday Liturgy which was organised by Mr Madigan and Mr Sadsad. I would like to thank the teachers and students who participated in the Liturgy.

This Liturgy marked the commencement of the holy season of Lent, a time for reflection and prayer while we prepare ourselves for the coming of Easter, the most important time in the Church calendar. Through prayer, fasting and giving alms, we are reminded of Jesus' death and Resurrection. Jesus brought the promise of hope to all people so that we may “Have life and have it to the full.”(John 10:10).

Congratulations 2023 HSC Cohort

We recognised and celebrated the successes of our 2024 HSC cohort at a special Distinguished Achievers Assembly today. We also acknowledged our ATAR Dux, Bassam Marjana. Our St Agnes school community is very proud of the achievements of the 2023 HSC cohort and wish each of them continued success as they begin the next stage of their life journey. May the spirit of St Agnes stay strong in their hearts. I would like to thank the 2023 Year 12 students who gave up their time to work with our current Year 12 students during their Wellbeing lesson.

Year 7 Welcome and Information Night

St Agnes formally welcomed our Year 7 parents to our community by inviting them to meet their child’s Learning Advisor and gain further information regarding the teaching and learning environment on Tuesday 13 February 2024.

All parents and carers, along with their children met their respective Learning Advisor and received a short briefing from members of the school Executive Team where they discussed a range of topics including Homeroom structure, Mission, expectations, wellbeing and support, learning, technology, learning support and extracurricular activities.

Feeder Primary School Visits/

Year 7/2025 Enrolments

In a few weeks Mr Scarpin, Ms Tomich, and Year 9 students will begin the 2024 enrolment process by visiting our feeder schools to develop positive relationships and discuss important details regarding why enrolling in St Agnes is a good choice for Year 6 students. At these visits, we will be distributing enrolment forms for applications for the 2025 year. We encourage parents to complete these forms and submit them to our office as soon as possible to avoid the disappointment of missing out on a position in Year 7 next year.

Catholic Schools Week

As part of Catholic Schools Week from the 4 - 8 March, families interested in enrolling in our school have the opportunity to attend a guided tour led by our Executive team to explore our school grounds and facilities, and to ask any questions you may have about the enrolment process. Book your interest in touring our school today using the following link: https://www.trybooking.com/COCEY.

Year 7 Boot camp

At St Agnes, we take pride in ensuring that our students are not only well-equipped for their learning, we understand that their wellbeing is also important. In order to assist the Year 7 students as they adjust to high school, we delivered a transition programme to assist them in becoming active members of our community. Students worked through seven sessions and completed various activities which will complement the learning.

The sessions included: Google Suite, Dairy Organisation, Practical Organisation, Critical Thinking and Culture, Safety, Wellbeing and Liturgy. These key components will be reinforced by Learning Advisors and also, through the Year Meetings led by Mr Cruickshank and Miss Raad.

Student Leadership Day

On Thursday, 1st February, before all students returned to school, our Year 12 Student Leaders and Year 11 Portfolio Leaders participated in a Leadership Day, organised by Ms Fielding, Cultural Diversity Leader. This was an excellent opportunity for our senior student school leadership team to reflect on their leadership skills and hear from the school Executive Team panel reflecting on their leadership. Our counsellors worked with our student leaders to develop their plan for the year. I would like to thank Ms Fielding for organising and leading the day, our school counsellors, the school executive and the teachers who are mentoring the portfolio students.

Angelica:

"The Leadership Mentoring Day was a very insightful opportunity for all those involved on the day. All of the five workshops aided me in building significant interactions between other leaders in our school. This interaction helped me to witness the extraordinary support and passion of our leaders in our community; which I hope to carry with me and share with others in my leadership journey at St Agnes".

Taneesha:

Leadership Day was a good opportunity that allowed us to connect with our fellow leaders and gave us an insight into what leadership is. Through various activities throughout the day, we were able to expand our knowledge of the qualities of a leader and develop our skills in teamwork, communication and wellbeing with our peers.

Diya:

The Leadership Mentor Day was approached with curiosity, energy and enthusiasm from all of the students in attendance as well as myself. The day provided all of the students with opportunities and ideas to contribute back to the St Agnes Community so everyone could be involved in something of their liking. This day helped me understand my role a part of the leaders at my school and how I can use the vital skills I used today and take it forth with me for future positions I might have.

Mrs J Holland

Principal

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To Truth Through Love

Welcome to 2024!

I extend a very warm welcome to every member of our community at the beginning of the 2024 learning year. In particular, welcome to the parents and students who are new to the St Agnes community. Of course, most eyes are on those Year 7 students who commence their high school journey with us – it is an exciting and somewhat frightening prospect for many. We also recognise those students and families who have joined our other year groups. It is one thing to begin at a new school in Year 7, but it is often far more overwhelming to enter an already existing cohort. So to all of our students, as you begin 2024, we encourage you to be courageous and embrace your new start. It is essential that you ask questions, seek assistance and work with those around you - teachers and peers alike.

HSC 2023

We are very proud of our 2023 HSC cohort! All students were focused on their study and as a school, we demonstrated considerable learning gain. A significant proportion of our students (over 85%) achieved results in the top three bands. This achievement is the result of hard work - the students and also, our teachers. As you know, success in the HSC comes from regular, consistent effort and also, seeking advice and feedback from teachers. It is the latter (feedback) that has the greatest impact on student growth.

Today, we acknowledged many students at our Distinguished Achievers Assembly as we recognised those who received First in Exam and also, our ATAR Dux, Bassam Marjana.

NAPLAN

NAPLAN assesses the literacy and numeracy skills of the students and provides feedback to the school on how the students compare to everyone else in the year group. It also provides advice and strategies to the school on how to work with the students to improve their skills. The data from the tests are used in conjunction with your child’s school work, PAT-R, PAT-M and MYAT in order to help us understand how each student learns effectively. NAPLAN will be held again in the middle of March and the timetable for the tests will be posted on Compass soon.

As was the case in 2023, parents and carers will get earlier and simpler information about their child’s NAPLAN achievement based on the following 4 levels:

• Exceeding
  
• Strong
  
• Developing
  
• Needs additional support.
  

The descriptors for each category will make it clear to parents what their child’s literacy and numeracy skills are at the time of NAPLAN testing and we will continue to work with you to meet your child’s needs. NAPLAN will still remain one of many useful ways that we assess your child’s learning and support needs.

School and Home Learning

Our framework around School and Home Learning underpins everything we do at St Agnes; you will find this in your child’s diary (page xiii). No matter where your child stands with their learning, we always want each individual to try their best, complete what is possible and seek help whenever needed. There is always a connection between what the class teacher sets during each lesson, the work to be completed after class (at home) and the assessment programme. All students have the ability to access our Library until 3.30pm each day and also, our Learning Centre every Tuesday from 2.30pm for one hour. As a result of these structures, all students can be supported in their learning and once they commit, anything is possible!

You will also see the time that each student needs to devote to their learning after school each day in the table below.

Study Skills Tip for February

Guidelines for Goal Setting

Embarking on a new school year provides an excellent opportunity to establish meaningful goals for personal and academic growth. Setting goals not only enhances your focus but also helps shape the kind of student you aspire to become. To ensure your goals are both attainable and inspiring, consider the following SMARTIES criteria.

Specific: Make goals as detailed and specific as possible. Avoid vague goals like ‘I want to do better in Maths’, instead make them very detailed and specific. Exactly what do you want to achieve?

Measurable: A crucial aspect of goal-setting is having a way to measure your progress. Define clear indicators that signal achievement, enabling you to track your success along the way. This could involve setting specific targets, such as achieving a certain grade or completing a set number of tasks.

Action-oriented: Your short-term goals should be the action steps you need to take to achieve the medium and longer-term goals.

(Another version of SMARTIES uses aspirational instead of action-oriented, i.e. your goals should inspire you and stretch and challenge you beyond your comfort level.)

Relevant and realistic: Goals change, so if your goal is no longer relevant, you need to change it too. Although your goals should stretch you beyond your comfort zone, they need to still be based in reality. Create challenging goals by all means, but not totally unrealistic ones.

Time-based: Your goals need to have a ‘to complete by’ date to give you something to aim for. Assigning deadlines to your goals provides a sense of urgency and direction.

Interesting: Choose goals that genuinely interest you and align with your values. Pursuing objectives that are personally meaningful increases motivation and commitment. When you find your goals interesting and worthwhile, you're more likely to stay dedicated to achieving them.

Emotional: Express the emotion behind your goals using powerful language. This emotional connection enhances your commitment and helps you stay connected to the purpose of your objectives. When you can articulate the significance of your goals, they become more compelling and personally resonant.

Success oriented: Frame your goals in a positive and success-focused manner. Instead of focusing on what you want to avoid or improve, emphasise the positive outcomes you aim to achieve. A positive mindset fosters resilience, optimism, and a greater likelihood of success.

By incorporating these SMARTIES guidelines into your goal-setting process, you increase the likelihood of turning your aspirations into tangible achievements throughout the school year. Remember that the journey of goal-setting is as valuable as the destination, fostering personal growth, motivation, and a sense of accomplishment.

You and your parents can learn more about how to achieve your academic goals at www.studyskillshandbook.com.au by logging in with the details below and working through some of the units.

Username: stagnes

Password: 24success

Mr G Kemmis

Assistant Principal - Learning Transformation

2024 St Agnes Student Leaders

During the Opening School Mass we acknowledged the new school leaders for 2024. The students pledged their support for the school and we look forward to working with them this year. We thank all of the students who nominated themselves and congratulate the leaders on their appointments.

Attendance and Punctuality

Each day counts. This is the message that we would like all students and families to be aware of. Just 20 days absent per year over a school life equates to one full year of schooling missed. I thank the families and students who have made an effort to not only turn up each day, but attend each day on time and prepared for learning.

We are aware that the parking situation and traffic on Evans Road in the morning and as school finishes is not ideal. A new school carpark has been designed and is awaiting approval, but this will take time. We ask that all families respect the operating hours of the school and only pick up your children for important matters. The procedures we would ask all families to follow is to try and use the school planner / diary where possible and write this into the diary with the pick up time needed and a brief reason given. This will then be signed by the student’s Leader of Learning Pathways or Learning Mentor. It is very difficult, particularly late in the afternoon to get students out of class if parents are asking at the front office.

Road Safety

The safety of all members of our community is the highest priority at St Agnes. For our community to stay safe we need everyone to contribute to safe and supportive behaviours. One area where we can all set good examples is through road safety. At St Agnes we understand that the site provides many challenges.

The school gate is closed each morning (approx 7:45 - 8:30) and afternoon (approx 2:15 - 2:45) during the peak times to ensure that students can move across the driveway and make their way to the crossing. If you need to access the school please do so outside of these hours to avoid additional traffic concerns or delays.

We are located next door to Our Lady of Consolation Nursing Home but we are not affiliated and it is private property. The site cannot be used for pick up and drop off of passengers for St Agnes.

School Photos

Year 7 have had their school photos taken for this year. The rest of the school will have their school photos taken later in the year.

Term 1 2024

eSafety Webinars for Parents/Carers

At Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) we see parents and carers as partners in your child's learning journey. In partnership with the eSafety Commissioner, CSPD would like to invite you to join the following free webinars for parents and carers:

• eSafety 101: How eSafety can help
  
• Understanding how to support your child with online gaming
  
• Understanding parental controls to safeguard your child
  
• Online safety and social media: TikTok, YouTube and Instagram
  

About the webinars

eSafety 101: how eSafety can help you

Available Sessions:

• 22 February 12:30 pm
  
• 20 March 12.30 pm
  

This webinar provides an overview of the eSafety Commissioner, and supporting programs and resources for parents and carers, children and young people.

It's suitable for parents and carers of children and young people in primary and secondary school.

What you need to do

Please note this webinar is offered several times so you need to select the date and time that works best for you.

Please register for the course on the secondary site via the following link: Register here

Understanding how to support your child with online gaming

Available sessions:

• 7 February: 12:30 pm
  
• 13 March: 4:00 pm
  

This webinar provides an overview of selecting quality games, understanding how to reduce the risks of gaming and how to create better gaming habits.

It's suitable for parents and carers of children and young people in primary and early secondary school.

What you need to do

Please note this webinar is offered several times so you need to select the date and time that works best for you.

Please register for the course on the secondary site via the following link: Register here

Understanding parental controls to safeguard your child

Available Sessions:

• 20 February: 12:30 pm
  
• 14 March: 12:30 pm
  

This webinar provides an overview of different types of parental controls and how to set them on smart devices and computers, in apps and on gaming platforms for your child’s safety.

It's suitable for parents and carers of children and young people in primary school.

What you need to do

Please note this webinar is offered several times so you need to select the date and time that works best for you.

Please register for the course on the secondary site via the following link: Register here

Online safety and social media: TikTok, YouTube and Instagram

Available sessions:

• 29 February: 12:30 pm
  
• 26 March: 12:30 pm
  

This webinar provides an overview of managing different functions of social media, including chat and privacy settings, as well as positive conversations about social media use, managing content and reporting negative online experiences.

It's suitable for parents and carers of children and young people in primary and early secondary school.

What you need to do

Please note this webinar is offered several times so you need to select the date and time that works best for you.

Please register for the course on the secondary site via the following link: Register here

If you have any further enquiries please email safeguarding@parra.catholic.edu.au

Cyber Safety Seminar

Protecting children in their digital worlds is an ever-evolving task for Australian families. Now more than ever parents are looking for guidance in how to manage screen time and navigate the world of games and social media.

St Patrick's Marist College Dundas is hosting this important education session with ySafe, Australia’s leading provider of online safety education. This practical, strategy-rich session will cover the most important points that all families need to know about online safety, covering key information about social media and gaming, screen time recommendations and step-by-step instructions on how to set up a cyber-safe home for children of all ages.

If you’ve ever struggled with getting your children off their games and into bed, worried about the content of the games that they are playing or felt concerned that your child was spending too much time in the digital world, this workshop is for you!

More information on the speaker, Patrick Thomas, can be found HERE.

The St Patrick's Marist College Dundas and its Parents & Family group warmly invite you to this Parent Hub event for 2024.

Date: Wednesday 21 February 2024

Sandwiches and light refreshments will be served from 6:30pm followed by the Seminar at 7:00pm in The La Valla Centre, St Patrick’s College, Dundas.

Please note that this is a parents only event.

RSVPs are essential via trybooking: https://www.trybooking.com/COPXL

Mr G Hilder

Assistant Principal - School Culture

Pace e bene - Peace and blessings to all members of the St Agnes community.

On Friday, 9th February, we held our Opening School Mass for 2024 at Mary Queen of the Family Parish, Blacktown. This is a significant moment for our school as we can welcome many new faces to our community, continue to share our Franciscan charism with the community, and formally recognise our student leadership for 2024.

During the Opening School Mass, we were able to formally welcome our new members of staff and our Year 7 students were given the ‘Tau’ cross as a way of visually welcoming them into our Franciscan community, so that they continue St Francis’ legacy of walking humbly, peacefully and compassionately in the footsteps of Jesus.

I would like to thank Fr Alan Layt from St Aidan’s Parish for his continued support of our school community and for leading our celebrations on Friday.

Fortnightly Mass

Mass will be open to the whole school as of 15th February. Fr Alan or Fr Neil will come to celebrate Mass for us in our sacred space, the Umbria room. All students are encouraged to attend along with our FIAT and FAM students. Mass begins at 8am and will finish by the end of homeroom, so all students do not lose learning time.

Sacrament of Reconciliation

Reconciliation will continue to be offered to Staff and Students with Fr Neil or Fr Alan. This will occur either Thursday directly after mass in the Umbria room, or on Fridays between 11am-12:30pm. If students wish to attend, they need to book a time at the Front office to attend. Notices will be made via Compass for students the day before

Sacramental Program

I would like to invite families/students that wish to make any of the Sacraments of the Catholic faith either Baptism, Reconciliation, Holy Communion, or Confirmation. We offer the Sacramental program in partnership with St Aidan’s parish.

If you could please email me at pmadigan@parra.catholic.edu.au with any questions about the program, or interest you may have, I will respond to you. Please ensure you include your child's name, LA (homeroom) group, and the sacrament you wish to undertake or would like further information on.

Shrove Tuesday - 13th February

On Tuesday, 13th February, we marked Shrove Tuesday by the selling of pancakes around the school. Students were asked to donate to Caritas in order to receive their pancakes. This donation will go towards a family or community in need, not just here in Australia but globally. Shrove Tuesday is the traditional feast day before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday. Lent is the 40 days leading up to Easter. This was traditionally a time of fasting and on Shrove Tuesday Christians went to confession and were Shriven (absolved of their sins).

Prayer for Shrove Tuesday

Ash Wednesday

14th February

On Wednesday, 14th February, we as a school community came together in Stages for our liturgies. Ash Wednesday is celebrated seven weeks before Easter and the day after Shrove Tuesday. This is a Christian observance that represents the first day of Lent and the start of approximately 6 weeks of fasting and penance. The ashes that we place on the forehead are the remnants of the Palms that were burnt from the previous year's Palm Sunday. We were able to mark our community with the ashes in the shape of the Cross as a mark of who we are as Christians. Teachers whilst distributing the ashes used the following from the Roman Missal and applied it generally by stating ‘Repent, and believe in the Gospel.’ Students and teachers were then invited in quiet reflection to think about their own personal lenten journey and what it will bring.

Peace and Blessings to you all,

Mr P. Madigan

Head of Mission

FIAT - Faith in Action Team

Attention St. Agnes Students! Join FIAT - Faith in Action Team!

Hey All!

Exciting news – FIAT is here, and we want YOU to be a part of it! 🌟

What's FIAT?

FIAT stands for Faith in Action Team, and it's not just a club – it's a community where we grow our Christian spirituality through real-life experiences and practice. Our mission? To spread faith all around our community.

What We Do:

• 💬 Faith Chats: Gather regularly with our awesome staff guides to dive into scripture, discuss faith, and share our spiritual journeys.
  
• 🤝 Charity Initiatives: Get ready to make a positive impact! We're all about engaging with the school community through charity – because giving back feels good.
  
• 🙏 Living Christ's Example: Let's be the living, breathing example of Christ right here in St Agnes. Small acts, big impact!
  

Why Join?

• 🌈 Make a difference in our school community.
  
• 🙌 Grow in your faith and spirituality.
  
• 🎉 Have a blast at charity fundraisers and faith-based events.
  

🎤 Get ready for Lifted Live events within the Parramatta diocese – it's gonna be lit!

How to Join:

Look out for upcoming meetings and events.

Keep an eye on our notice board for updates.

Just show up with your awesome self – everyone's welcome!

Let's make St. Agnes a place where faith is alive and actions speak louder than words. See you at FIAT! 🕊️✨

Mr. Goco

FIAT Coordinator

FAM - Faith is Alive in Me

Join FAM and Strengthen Your Faith Journey!

Greetings, St. Agnes Community!

If you're looking to deepen your faith and make a positive impact, consider joining FAM! Launched in 2023, FAM (Faith is Alive in Me) is a dynamic group of ministries dedicated to building faith both within and beyond our school community.

What We Offer:

• Theological Pastoral Formation: A regular space for deepening your understanding of theology.
• Mission Activities and Service: Opportunities to actively engage in mission work and community service.
• Faith Deepening: Explore and strengthen your faith through various activities and discussions.
• Leadership Formation: Be prepared for leadership roles in Catholic Identity and Social Justice.

Why Join FAM?

• Community: Connect with like-minded individuals on a shared faith journey.
• Impact: Contribute to meaningful mission activities and service projects.
• Growth: Deepen your faith and understanding of theology.
• Leadership Opportunities: Be prepared for leadership roles in Catholic Identity and Social Justice.

How to Join:

• Look out for upcoming meetings and events.
• Keep an eye on Compass for updates.
• Just show up with your awesome self – everyone's welcome!

Let's build a stronger faith community together at St. Agnes with FAM!

Mr. Goco

FIA Coordinator

Join Mini Vinnies and

Make a Difference!

Hey St. Agnes Community,

Exciting news – Mini Vinnies is calling all compassionate hearts to join our mission!

What's Mini Vinnies?

It's your chance to be a part of a group that makes a real impact. Mini Vinnies is all about spreading kindness, helping others, and creating positive change within our St. Agnes community.

With the guidance of staff, members meet regularly to discuss and raise awareness of social justice issues and organise ways to help others in need within their school community and beyond.

What We Do:

• Community Service: Get involved in hands-on projects to make a difference.
  
• Support Initiatives: Assist those in need both inside and outside our school walls.
  

Why Join?

• Make a Difference: Be part of something bigger than yourself.
  
• Build Friendships: Connect with like-minded students.
  
• Have Fun: Enjoy events, activities, and a sense of fulfilment.
  

How to Join:

• Stay Tuned: Look out for updates on meeting times and activities.
  
• Bring a Friend: The more, the merrier!
  

Let's show the world the incredible impact our St. Agnes community can make!

Mr. Goco

FIA Coordinator

Best Hub Excursion

On February 6th Year 12 students had the opportunity to visit ACU BEST Hub (Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology).

The purpose of the visit was to enhance student understanding of local amenities and facilities at ACU.

BEST Hub was co-designed by ACU to create specialised learning hubs providing access to cutting-edge technology. Australia’s most innovative integrated sport, health and education precinct, BEST provides students an amazing multidisciplinary space comprised of allied health providers delivering rehabilitation and high-performance support for local, interstate and international clients.

Sister Maria Sullivan's Farewell

On Sunday, 11th February, Mrs Holland and Mrs Karafotias attended a farewell celebration for Sr Maria Sullivan at the African Centre, St Patrick's Church Blacktown. They met many of the alumni of St Agnes and other CSPD schools to celebrate the successes of the mentoring program which will now begin its journey in 2024 with Mercy Works and MPower.

What this looks like at St Agnes is running programs like Reading Angels, attending NEC programs at WSU, and working closely with Deng Athum and John Cinya in the community. However, our hard work with students at St Agnes can often come undone without extending the network and collaboration post-school. This is where this program becomes essential. Many of our students who faced challenging barriers at school require advocates in the community as they venture into university, apprenticeship and other undergraduate opportunities. We will continue to work with the African community to ensure our students are offered equitable opportunities and continue the legacy of Sister Maria Sullivan and Tess Mulveney.

Following is a link to the article about the program in the Mercy Works December 2023 newsletter on page 10:

https://www.mercyworks.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Final-Bilum-Dec-23-digital.pdf

Angelica Dances Away with

Blacktown City Writing Prize!

In the very last week of Term 4 last year, on a hot, sweltering December evening Mr Hilder, Ms Gale, Ms Fielding, and I made our way to the Max Webber Library in Main St Blacktown for the presentation of the Blacktown City Mayoral Creative Writing Prize. After learning that Angelica Quiroz Prasad from Year 11, had entered and received Highly Commended for her short story entry Moments Out of the Ordinary, we all really wanted to be there to watch her collect her award. What we didn’t realise was the first place prize winners were yet to be announced. We were quite stunned when one of the judges presenting the prizes named Angelica as the winner of the 15-17 age short story category from all entries across the Blacktown area. Angelica proudly accepted her award, receiving a personal cheque for $100 and also $100 for the school. This money will go towards purchasing senior books for the library.

Congratulations Angelica on not only entering the Mayoral Creative Writing Prize but winning! An amazing achievement and as far as I know, a first for St Agnes. Angelica’s story is about one of her passions - dancing.

I encourage all students to write about the things they are passionate about and to take up any opportunities to explore and challenge their writing skills. You really do have to be in it, to win it.

Mr P Loughlin

Leader of Learning - English

Below is Angelica’s amazing winning entry.

Year 11 Drama Excursion

Miss Oraha's Year 11 Drama class embarked on the ONSTAGE Workshop excursion at Belvoir St Theatre this week. Various performing arts schools across New South Wales embarked on this transformative journey in preparation for the HSC major works. The workshops served as a vibrant hub for collaboration, creativity, and connections leaving an indelible mark on all who participated. Under the guidance of professional actors/trainers, students delved into the intricacies of performance, exploring new techniques and perspectives to enrich their craft for the HSC.

PATHE – Pasifika and Mauri Achievement

to Higher Education

At St Agnes, we have a wonderful partnership with Western Sydney University and this year students from Year 7 through to Year 12 will have a chance to attend in school workshops, planning days, campus visits and much more. Students from Year 8 to 12 have all registered, however if you are new to St Agnes, or a Year 7 student please send me an email at nkarafotias@parra.catholic.edu.au expressing your interest to ensure I have you on the list for the pathway program.

NEC – Refugee New And Emerging Communities Achievement to Higher Education

The Refugee, New and Emerging Communities Program is a Widening Participation program at Western Sydney University. The program aims to support and raise educational aspirations for high school students from a refugee/asylum seeker background. The program began in 2017 and offers the opportunity for enhanced academic and personal achievement to students of Western Sydney high schools. Students from Year 8 to 12 have all registered, however if you are new to St Agnes, or a Year 7 student please send me an email at nkarafotias@parra.catholic.edu.au expressing your interest to ensure I have you on the list for the pathway program.

Tuesday (February 20, 2024)

Defence Careers Australia - Sydney: ADFA Careers Information Session

Would you like the opportunity to undertake military training in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) while earning a degree? All without debt - in fact, we'll pay you!

You will earn a salary while learning and step into a guaranteed role upon graduation as an Officer in the ADF.

Head to the upcoming info session to speak with current serving military personnel and learn more about the Australian Defence Force Academy.

It is highly recommended you book as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited!

Time: 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Location: Sydney Defence Force Recruiting Centre

Details and Registration:

https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/6dq6tu0

Wednesday (February 21, 2024)

The University of Sydney - Why study environmental engineering?

Join our webinar to learn about our new environmental engineering stream, launching in 2025. If you want to develop solutions to minimise chemical emissions, air pollution control or global warming, environmental engineering is for you. Gain the skills to reduce the carbon footprint of manufacturing processes and choose to specialise in advanced water treatment and purification technologies, energy optimisation, or geotechnical engineering.

Time: 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Location: Online

Details and Registration:

https://uni-sydney.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cLkwHoKIQxemEYY6mMamTQ#/registration

National Apprenticeship Week

The National Apprenticeship Week 2024 Theme is, ‘It’s all in your hands.‘

As thousands of students think about their future career, NAWA is timed to raise awareness of the advantages of apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships place the power to make a better future firmly in your hands, by helping you to:

• Build self worth.
  
• Create a sense of achievement.
  
• Turn your personal strengths into a rewarding career.
  

An apprenticeship is a learning pathway that builds character, confidence and commitment by learning on-the-job from real experiences, and from people who are invested in your development. But most of all, apprenticeships and traineeships are about equipping yourself with a skills that open up a world of opportunity and are yours to keep for a lifetime.

2024 Australian Apprenticeship Priority List

The Australian Apprenticeship Priority List identifies occupations that need more apprentices and trainees to meet current and future skill shortages. The 2024 list has 19 more occupations on it than last year’s list, and this is good news because apprentices and trainees working in these occupations may be eligible for an extra $10,000 over the duration of their apprenticeship! These payments are to encourage apprentices and trainees to pursue work in areas of skills shortage, complete their training, and go on to have successful long-term careers.

https://www.dewr.gov.au/skills-support-individuals/resources/appendix-australian-apprenticeship-priority-list-1-january-2024

The 19 new priority occupations in 2024 are:

• Ambulance Officer
  
• Animal Husbandry Technician
  
• Aquaculture or Fisheries Technician
  
• Architectural Draftsperson
  
• Boat Builder and Repairer
  
• Earth Science Technician
  
• Fire Protection Plumber
  
• Flight Attendant
  
• Furniture Maker
  
• Graphic Pre-press Trades Worker
  
• Irrigation Designer
  
• Irrigation Technician
  
• Light Technician
  
• Mine Deputy
  
• Nursing Support Worker
  
• Out of School Hours Care Worker
  
• Pharmacy Technician
  
• Shipwright
  
• Sound Technician
  

4 Steps To An Apprenticeship

Step 1. Do your research

Discover career pathways an apprenticeship can lead to on the Your Career website or check out Busy At Work‘s A-Z of Apprenticeships and Traineeships. A VET or pre-apprenticeship course and work experience while you‘re at school are real-life research tasks that give you confidence in the trade you‘ve chosen and that also help make you more employable.

Step 2. Make sure you're prepared

Learn about the financial support that‘s available, understand your rights and responsibilities, and check your literacy and numeracy skills are up to scratch. Use the Preparation Checklist to make sure you’re ready.

Step 3. Find and apply for jobs

There are many ways to find an apprenticeship, such as by contacting an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network, applying to a Group Training Organisation, or searching on the Workforce Australia website.

Step 4. Sign up to start

Once you’re hired, sign your contract asap so your apprenticeship is official, and enrol in your VET course to being your training towards your qualification. Prepare for your first day and understand what's expected of you.

COMPETITIONS!!! PRIZES TO BE WON!!!

– add to your e-portfolio

Get involved in these extra-curricular challenges and competitions to pursue your passions, build your skills, and develop your portfolio. All are free (unless otherwise stated), and many offer amazing prizes!

Link: FANTASTICAL SHARKS AND RAYS

Help save our threatened and endangered species with the power of your imagination. Create an artistic masterpiece and it could end up in the Australian Museum!

• Open to: students up to 15 y.o
  
• Dates: now - 29 February 2024
  

Link: Australian Stockholm Junior Water Prize

Create solutions for water challenges individually or in pairs. The winner is invited to participate in the Stockholm Junior Water Prize.

• Open to: high school students 15 - 20 y.o
  
• Dates: now - 1 March 2024
  

Link: QUT BlueShift Business Case Competition

Compete in teams of three or four to analyse a business challenge and prepare a written solution to a real business case.

• Open to: Year 10, 11, & 12 students
  
• Dates: now - 27 February 2024
  

Link: Op-Ed Competition 2024: Say what matters

Tell us what change you would like to see in the world, in your country, or your community in 500 - 1000 words.

• Open to: 13 - 19 y.o
  

Dates: now - 26 February 2024

Mrs Karafotias

Careers Advisor

OPAL Cards

Some of our buses are very close to maximum capacity.

What can you do about it?

All school students need to travel with a valid school travel pass. If you are using a School Opal card, you must tap on and tap off whenever using public transport to travel to and from school. This allows the bus company to better understand customer travel patterns and adjust the services provided if necessary.

How can you get a new Opal pass?

https://transportnsw.info/school-travel-apply

School Fees General Information

CEDP advises that statements were posted out on 12 February 2024. Please note Instalment 1 will be due 13 March 2024.

If you would like to set up an arrangement for the whole year please choose one of the options provided and notify the school via email stagnes@parra.catholic.edu.au.

The school does not accept cash payments. School fees can be paid for in cash at your local post office. The post BillPay details are noted on your school fee statements.

Catholic Schools Parramatta Dioces (CSPD) has a policy in place which states that a Term's notice (10 weeks) must be given in writing to the Principal before the removal of a student. Failure to do this means that the full 10 weeks’ fees will be payable. A Leaver's form can be collected from the front office and completed for each departing student.

Further information regarding school fees can be found here.

Compass is our primary parent communication tool for day-to-day operational matters, upcoming events, notices, and notifications so it is essential that all parents download the app.

It is more important than ever that we are able to communicate effectively, especially when it involves the safety of our children. If you haven't already, we ask that parents download the Compass app onto their devices for either Apple or Android.

• Compass is a web-based system allowing you to access up-to-date and meaningful information about our school and your child’s progress. Compass includes many different features, including the ability to:
  
• Be informed of important updates, events, and reminders
  
• View your child’s timetable
  
• Review your child’s attendance
  
• Provide explanations for periods of absence
  
• Update your contact details
  
• Book Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences.
  

Compass is accessible on any modern web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, Safari) or by using the Compass iOS or Android apps.

If you have not received notifications via email can you please email the school to check on our contact details for you.

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