St Benedict's Catholic College

St Benedict’s Catholic College is proud to present our very first Musical, “The Wiz”. Based on the original “The Wizard of Oz”, this stage production tells the tale of Dorothy who makes her way to seek the mysterious Wiz in an attempt to get back to Kansas. Along the way she meets a band of characters who accompany her in her quest, such as The Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion.

Book by: William F. Brown, Music and Lyrics by: Charlie Smalls, Adapted from “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L.Frank Baum

Don't miss out! Purchase your tickets via TryBooking: https://www.trybooking.com/CQVJM

Today our Feast Day Mass was celebrated by Fr Sean Cullen. The importance of our college’s Benedictine spirituality was captured beautifully by Father Sean in his homily.

Thanks must go to Mrs Kimberley Logue, the liturgy committee and all the staff and students who contributed to the preparation and organisation of the Mass, and the student and staff presentation awards ceremony. Thanks also to the music staff, Ms Sheena Wilbow and Mr Brandon O’Donnell and the student vocalists and musicians, who provided the wonderful music that helped make this Mass so memorable.

Special congratulations to the students from Year 7 to Year 12 who were recipients of 100 and 200 Merit Awards and to Mrs Theresa Fenech, Mrs Pauline Bonfield, Mrs Natasha Hawkins, Ms Kirstie O’Connor, Mrs Lynette Reavell and Mrs Sara-Jane Castelli who received “Ten Year Service” Awards.

As part of our celebration of Reconciliation Week Dharawal students and staff held a special liturgy on Tuesday 28 May. Mr Andrew Oldfield performed a smoking ceremony to commence the liturgy. This experience brought immense cultural significance and reverence to our National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week celebrations.

National Sorry Day began in 1998, a year after the Human Rights Commission released Bringing them Home: Report of the National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from their Families. The day remembers and acknowledges the Stolen Generations, who were forcibly removed from their families and communities under government policy between 1910 and 1970.

The 2024 Reconciliation Week theme, Now More Than Ever focuses on defending and upholding the rights of First Nations peoples. To call out racism wherever we encounter it, and to actively reinforce the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across this continent..

"Now more than ever, we need reconciliation."

Special thanks to Mr Andrew Olfield, Mr Peter Morris, Mrs Kimberley Logue, Dharawal Staff and students for this memorable celebration

Kind regards,

Mrs Kerrie Piatek

Although rain may have dampened some of the Feast Day festivities we were still able to celebrate with Mass as a College. Our Mass was celebrated by Fr Sean Cullen, episcopal Vicar for Clergy and Parish Priest of Corpus Christi Catholic Parish Bowral.

Fr Sean in his homily spoke about the importance of fidelity - to be full of faith. Fidelity is a commitment to a way of living -not necessarily our head or heart but in our actions of us being committed. Fidelity is a promise that we will stick around even when it is tough and we feel we are not valued. Fidelity is also a gift we can give to our school, families and entire world. He linked this to St Benedict’s virtue of STABILITY - this brings one closer to God and to each other. When we pray - another virtue of St Benedict it is not about the method, style or context. It is about ‘turning up”, not giving up and persevering - this will see God breakthrough.

We are very grateful to Fr Sean for travelling from Bowral this morning to celebrate our Mass especially in the midst of all the road closures.

A special thank you to Mr Brandon O’Donnell, our choir and musicians for the wonderful music and singing provided in our Mass today. Thank you also to Mr Chris Duncan and his BNN IT Crew for overseeing the audio visual and slideshow for our Mass and awards.

The source of our unity as a community is always Christ. At the heart of Benedict’s spirituality is the presence of Christ through whom we come to know the liberating love of God and through whom we are able to share that love with others.[3] A Benedictine community exists to give witness to Christ and is about embracing a shared life and common vision that ensures there is a place for everyone.

Our Mass today is celebrated on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Focusing on the Sacred Heart of Jesus invites to have a compassionate, loving heart and be a Christ-like presence in the world. The Rule of St Benedict says "Let them prefer nothing whatever to Christ and may he bring us all together to everlasting life."

We wrapped up with our final session of the Cross Generational Workshop on Tuesday. I have included a review of the 4 week program written by the students involved.

As students and seniors introduced themselves, they formed groups and the Cross-Generational Workshop began. The first session focused on identifying areas for improvement and helping seniors discover ways technology could enhance their lives. Students guided them in navigating their devices and software. Over cups of tea and a few donuts, participants began to warm up to each other, forming meaningful connections.

The groups quickly familiarised themselves with one another, the lively chatter and positive energy reflecting the bonds being built and stories being shared. Wisdom flowed both ways, with everyone learning something new—whether it was taking photos on a phone, sending emails, or receiving life advice and tips for using Google Maps.

The room buzzed with conversation and laughter, the cheerful atmosphere a testament to the shared experiences and mutual gifts exchanged.

Kind regards,

Kimberley Logue

Kind regards,

Wendy Fawbert

• Monday 10 June - PUBLIC HOLIDAY - King's Birthday
• Wednesday 12 June - White Card Training Year 9 & 10
• Thursday 13 June - Excursion Year 9 History - Anzac War Memorial
• Thursday 13 June - Excursion Year 10 Art - Art Gallery of NSW
• Tuesday 18 June - Youth Ministry Training Day Year 10 & 11
• Wednesday 19 June - Year 12 Business Studies Seminar - Hurstville
• Friday 20 June - Everyone invited, School Musical, The Wiz, 7pm
• Saturday 21 June - Everyone invited, School Musical, The Wiz, 7pm

• Week 10 of this term July 1 to July 5 - SCHOOL CANTEEN CLOSED ALL WEEK. THIS IS TO ALLOW THE NEW PROVIDERS TIME TO BE READY FOR OPENING OF TERM 3.
  
  

School Holidays - Term 2

• Thursday 4 July - Last day of term for students
• Friday 5 July - Staff Development Day
• Term 2 Holidays - Monday 8 July - Friday 19 July

Suzanne Seychell

Numeracy Instructional Coach

seychells01@dow.catholic.edu.au

Last Friday, May 24, our Year 10 students immersed themselves in the TAPS (Transition And Preparation for Senior Secondary) program, gaining crucial insights into the job search process. Guided workshops covered finding and comparing job ads, resume and cover letter writing, and mock interviews.

Through hands-on activities, students learned the importance of self-awareness, skills assessment, and goal setting before beginning their job search. They also honed soft skills like communication and teamwork, essential for successful interviews.

The program highlighted key interview do’s and don’ts, emphasising punctuality, professional attire, and positive body language. Overall, the TAPS program equipped our students with confidence and resilience for their future careers.

On Monday evening, 27 May, our school hosted the annual Subject Selection Presentations, a collaborative event aimed at helping students make informed academic and career decisions.

Esteemed institutions, including Torrens University, Western Sydney University, Notre Dame, TAFE Campbelltown, South Western Sydney LHD Health, MyGateway, University of Sydney, ACU, Scope Australia, Job Support, and UOW, provided valuable insights and guidance at their stalls.

The presentations were aligned with our Subject Key Learning Areas (KLAs), connecting academic interests with career pathways. Students engaged directly with providers, asking questions about courses, prerequisites, and career trajectories, leaving the event well-informed about their future options.

This collaborative effort between St. Benedict's Catholic College and attending institutions highlights our commitment to student support. We extend our gratitude to all participants and commend our students for their active engagement.

The Subject Selection Presentations marked a pivotal moment, equipping our students with the knowledge to pursue fulfilling and rewarding careers.

What a fun and fabulous week we had in Week 5. We have reached the halfway mark of our Winter appeal supporting St Vincent De Paul and we did it in style! Not only did the team receive a lot of donations of food and personal care hygiene products but Year 10 raised approximately $580 in their bake sale on Wednesday, we had a BBQ lunch and we ended the week with Retro Day. I have the pleasure of welcoming students to school at the College’s front gate every second Friday and I was met with some amazing retro clothing and wigs walking through! I was so glad I had brought the school camera with me because I captured some amazing photos! A huge thank you to everyone who participated in the fun. I look forward to Retro Day in 2025. Thank you to Dharawal and Mr Earl for helping to establish and run some of our events in the first 5 weeks of Term 2.

Hildegard will spend Week 6 to Week 10 assisting the Social Justice team with the Winter Appeal. They have a few initiatives to continue raising money for St Vincent De Paul so please keep checking Compass, VIVI and the College newsletter for further details. However, we will still be collecting items allocated to each Strive group every Monday, Wednesday and Friday in the collection point in the Tas Quad.

If you would like to join the team, then please feel free to attend a meeting every Wednesday Day 8 at recess in J1 or send Mrs Castelli an email.

Mrs Sara-Jane Castelli

Social Justice Coordinator

In PDHPE students in Years 9 and 10 have the opportunity to choose from two popular electives, both of which offer engaging hands-on experiences.

Child Studies provides a comprehensive exploration of the various factors that influence prenatal development and a child’s sense of wellbeing and belonging. This course covers a wide range of social, environmental, genetic, and cultural influences, offering students a holistic understanding of child development. Students engage in a variety of practical activities such as creating picture books, catering for a children’s birthday party, taste testing baby food, developing educational activities and educational TV programs. Child studies offer a learning experience that prepares students for future roles in childcare, education and related fields.

PASS (Physical Activity and Sports Studies.) This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of physical activity. Students explore key areas such as the importance of leisure and recreational activities, body systems and principles of fitness. Students participate in a wide range of hands-on and engaging activities which can include pitching tents, yoga, lawn bowls, running a coaching session, event planning and an adventure excursion.

Todd has been an outstanding addition to our PE department. His life experiences have led him to embrace resilience and develop a growth mindset. He is admired for his hard work, dedication, and the ability to view challenges positively, seeing them as opportunities for learning. Students appreciate his genuine desire to see others succeed.

Our next teacher is the most organised individual you will meet. Her meticulous approach ensures that her classroom is designed to facilitate learning and growth. This teacher has an unparalleled knowledge of her students, this deep understanding is frequently recognised and appreciated by parents.

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Year 10 are preparing for their Art excursion to the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney to see Australia’s most prestigious art prize, The Archibald Prize. Students have been studying portraiture throughout the semester with a particular focus on Anh Do, so we are excited to see if one of Anh Do’s artworks managed to be a finalist this year.

Please check Compass to ensure you have provided consent for your child to attend. All the details regarding transport, timing and uniform required have been placed onto the Compass event.

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Whilst you’re exploring the Oliver Home Page check out our range of Ebooks and Audiobooks accessed via the Sora App.

Many of our students are currently participating in the NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge IT’S NOT TOO LATE to join them! Come see the Library Staff to organise registration and be a part of the challenge. All students participating in the challenge will be eligible for a prize from the Library as well as the opportunity to receive a Certificate issued by the NSW Premier awarded at the end of year College Assembly, not to mention reading a wide variety of new and exciting books.

The Library will proudly be supporting NAIDOC WEEK in the upcoming weeks followed by the Olympics which will include visual displays, resources and competitions. Keep an eye on the Oliver Homepage and the Library TV monitors for more information.

Happy reading!

The Library Team

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The DIO Cross Country event was held on Monday 27 May at Willandra, Tapitallee. All students represented their College with great enthusiasm and immense pride on the day. From this day we had Georgia Betar (5th), Emily Denford (6th) and Jude Hamilton (3rd) went on to represent Wollongong Diocese at the NSWCCC Cross Country Championships. Congratulations to Jude Hamilton who finished in 2nd place at the NSWCCC Championships and will now move on to the All Schools Cross Country event.

The Cross Country team consisted of the following students: Isabella Azzopardi, Georgia Betar, Marcella Dawood, Emily Denford, Jude Hamilton, Levi Hamilton, Bailey Kajfes, Tiana Maracic, Laney Darlita, Eva Neskoski, Logan Orazi, Lauren Osi-Boamah, Emilie Park, Aaryan Prasad, Koby Raetz, Katelyn Roberts, Molly Small and Ronan Taylor.

The boys Bill Turner Cup football team played their third game on Monday 3 June and came away with another win, a deserved 2-1 victory over a tough Ambarvale High. We started the game slowly, conceding a goal in the first five minutes but as the game went on, the boys wrestled back control of the match. Zac Palumbo was threatening down the right hand side, while Cristiano Carle and Nikolas Maruncic were making things happen in midfield. We had to wait until just before half time to get a goal back, Noah Hooper converting a penalty after a period of sustained pressure. It was to be two just a minute later, Jayden Webb tapping in at the back post from a cross that was not dealt with. The boys conducted themselves with great sportsmanship and are to be commended for their behaviour and attitude on the pitch. Up next, a tough game awaits against Patrician Brothers’ Fairfield, with the winner progressing through to the regional final.

The Girls Bill Turner Trophy football team travelled to Georges Hall on Wednesday 29 May to play the 3rd Round of the competition against Georges River Grammar. The Girls played brilliantly to secure a 4-1 win to progress into round 4 and the semi-finals of the South West regional. All girls played their part in a great team display of football. Highlights included a hat-trick from Martina Romeo (now has 6 goals in 3 matches), as well as Emily Denford and Olivia McGlynn displaying control and pose in midfield providing fantastic passes to the forwards and wingers. The ever strong Backline held resilient through the 60 minutes of play not allowing many balls through their wall. Overall, the girls should be commended for their outstanding effort and sportsmanship so far throughout this competition. Bring on the Semi-final.

The boys 7-9 MISA Basketball team have been having a very successful season, being undefeated as they enter into the finals. These boys have worked hard together to achieve this, including attending training sessions before school to get in some practice together.

Notable performances in round 5:

• Logan Orazi - MVP

• 3 Pointers: Harry Rofe, Levi Hamilton & Cameron Ford

A thank you goes out to the assistant coaches Sam Binskin and Luke Rainbow from year 10, who have helped guide the junior boys to their success. I look forward to seeing the outcome as we face the 1st place team from the EAST MISA competition in 2 weeks time in the grand final.

Mrs Alicia Levi

The Senior Girls football team is in the midst of a very promising season. The fact that we have been forced to field a very different team each week simply highlights the football depth we have at the College.

A strong 5 nil win with only eight available players opened our MISA title defence against William Carey Christian College. This was followed by a hard fought one all draw against a tough Thomas Hassall Anglican College team. The game highlight was a clinical strike from Rileigh Griffin who calmly put the ball in the net with a 35 metre pile driver of a shot!

Our third game finished with a deserved 3-1 victory. Abbey O’Donnell(Yr 10) and Georgia Franco (Yr 11) finished excellent lead up work in a game which highlighted the resilience and determination present in this team. We only had 10 players available due to illness and school commitments.

Undoubtedly the highlight of the season has been the resilient manner in which the girls have supported each other and the way they approach every game. They play the game in a positive, competitive but most importantly a respectful manner.

This team is an excellent blend of players from Years 10,11, and 12. The leadership from the Year 12 players has been outstanding. The dream of going back to back to back is looking very positive. Regardless of what happens in the remaining weeks the season will be a success.

On May 14, Year 11 and 12 students had the privilege of attending an information seminar hosted by the ACU Step into Teaching Program (SUIT). Sponsored by CEdoW, one student per school has the chance to participate in this transformative program, which offers a fast track into a teaching career. During the seminar, students received valuable guidance on how to apply for a scholarship, streamlining their journey towards becoming educators. The Step Up Into Teaching initiative not only introduces students to university life but also grants them early entry into a teaching course, with the added benefit of receiving credit towards their degree. Successful completion of SUIT requirements ensures automatic placement in one of ACU’s esteemed teaching courses, offering a head start on their vocational path. The enthusiasm among students for this opportunity was palpable, with many eager to apply and embark on this rewarding journey.

On Wednesday, May 15, Deborah Neich from UOW graced our Year 11 and 12 students with her expertise, shedding light on the application process for courses starting in 2025. Her presentation zeroed in on early entry opportunities and the array of scholarships available, providing students with crucial insights to map out their career paths. The session proved to be not only informative but also highly engaging, with students actively involved and gaining a more comprehensive understanding of their future academic trajectories. The day left our students feeling empowered and enthusiastic about the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

Studio5 has relocated to a new site in Campbelltown and is now open for students from Years 11 and 12 to study Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.00pm and during school holidays.

To book, send an email to studio5@dow.catholic.edu.au with your name/school and the date/time you plan to attend. Cancel at any time via email.

Printing and binding facilities available.

Address: Suite 3.01, Building B, Lvl 3, 4 Hyde Parade, Campbelltown NSW 2560

Website: https://www.atstudio5.com/

Email: studio5@dow.catholic.edu.au

Contact: Natasha Hamilton 0429 193 168

For all things related to the College BYODD program, please visit the College BYODD Site. Here you will find all information relating to the BYODD program including device requirements, Apple Care + and how to configure your device for use at the College.

For questions relating to BYODD, please contact the College or email:

https://sites.google.com/dow.catholic.edu.au/byoddsbcc/it-support

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Don't miss out on purchasing your child/s school photos.

To order: www.advancedlife.com.au
School code: 8A9 6V4 L53

Please find attached the school bus timetable for 2024 or you can click on the link below to see our school timetable that has been uploaded onto the transit systems website.
https://nsw.transitsystems.com.au/

P & F Uniform Pool order form - click here

The P & F preloved Uniform Pool has reopened, please complete the order form and send to the P & F by email at: uniforms@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au

Our wonderful P&F volunteer Tracey will contact you.

Items can be paid for in cash ONLY and collected from the SBCC College Office.

Donations of items in good condition can be left at the College Office.

Please note Rainier's office hours over winter:

• Narellan Shop will be closed on Fridays ONLY from 21 June – 2 August
• Narellan Shop will be closed for stocktake from the 8 July – 13 July (one week only)

CONTACT:

Ranier Schoolwear Unit 5/6-8 Porrende Street Narellan 2567

Online purchasing and appointments visit: shop.ranier.com.au

Email: stbenedict@ranier.com.au

Phone: 02 4647 8942

Responses will be provided during opening hours

For more immediate assistance, Head Office details are

Online: ranier.com.au/contact

Email: custservice@ranier.com.au