Filter Content
- Principal's Report
- Appointment of Acting Principal 2023 - St Clare's Taree
- School Fees 2023
- Ministry & Parish News
- Year 12 Graduation & Awards Presentation
- ARTEXPRESS Nomination
- 2022 Creative Arts Showcase
- Year 11 Design – Foliage Dyeing
- Successful Wellbeing Dog Application
- Year 8 Students Represent Australia in the Auckland International Futsal Cup
- Careers & VET Information
- Upcoming Events
Dear Parents, Caregivers and Friends of St Clare’s
I hope our Week 6 newsletter finds you and your loved ones safe and well.
At our most recent whole school assembly I took some time to talk with the students about the correlation between self-respect and respect for others. It seems clear to me that a person who does not have a strong sense of self-worth will also discount the worth of those around them. Such a mindset allows individuals to behave in ways that are disrespectful to those around them and by so doing, make the task of learning and teaching much more difficult for all involved. The revamp of the St Clare’s timetable at the beginning of the year to incorporate a pastoral program of journaling and year level meetings was designed to give every student the opportunity to goal set and be responsible for their own learning. School Reflection Days, Gifted Education extension programs, writer and artist in residence programs and programs like Heart to Heart are designed to help the young people in our care to grow in self-understanding and self-discipline. In this way, we help individuals to be successful learners who support others around them to be the best they can be.
Last Wednesday evening the St Clare’s Art Department held a Showcase Evening of Art, Photography and Music. The event featured work from across the year levels, highlighted by senior works from the HSC. A great feature of the evening was the wide range of work exhibited by our students which gave great witness to their talent and the excellent guidance and support our young people receive from their teachers. My thanks to Creative Arts Leader of Learning Rebecca Huett and the Creative Arts Department members Callam Howard, Lyndall Laurie, Amanda Brooks and Wayne McDougall for their willingness to ‘go the extra yard’ for their students.
St Clare’s annual NAIDOC Assembly was held on Thursday, 10 November. The gathering featured a panel of local Elders who took part in a Q & A lead by St Clare’s Aboriginal students, a PowerPoint constructed by the Aboriginal Education class that highlighted the struggle of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to be counted and heard as Australians and a wonderful musical offering from the St Clare’s choir. A further feature of the Assembly was the presence of the Taree High School Aboriginal Dance Group who gave a wonderful performance to open and set the tone of what was to come.
My thanks to the visiting Elders Aunty Denise Russell, Aunty Isabell Bungie, Aunty Beryl Herrmann, Aunty Gail Lean, Uncle Russell Saunders and Uncle Will Paulson, the Taree High School Dancers led by Josh Wood, the St Clare’s Choir and their teacher Amanda Brooks, the Aboriginal Education class and their teacher Sandy Basile, organiser Kathy Kratz, Robyn Davis and Assistant Principal Phillip Gibney, who as MC led the Assembly. Thank you also to Karen McCann, Laurent Gonfond and our Hospitality students for supplying a very tasty morning tea for all our guests, students and staff.
On Friday morning the school paused to mark Remembrance Day and remember the countless number of Australians who have served to ensure that our freedoms and way of life can be experienced by succeeding generations. My thanks to Marian Parvin who laid a wreath on behalf of the St Clare’s community at the local RSL Sub-branch service and to students Harry Miller and Luella-Rayne McCormack who led the ceremony at school which was organised by Leader of Learning HSIE Eloise Thomas.
It was wonderful to welcome Catholic Schools Office Director and former Assistant Principal at St Clare’s, Gerard Mowbray on Friday evening as we capped 13 years of schooling for the St Clare’s HSC cohort of 2022. It was a lovely evening full of memories and possibilities for the future. My thanks to the many staff, parents and students who contributed to make the evening a memorable event for all involved. A special mention to Office Manager Anne Havard and support staff member Cecilia Harvey for the enormous amount of work they put into organising the evening and Year 12 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement Todd Curtis who has shepherded the cohort through the trials and tribulations of floods, COVID and the pressures of the HSC. Thanks to Assistant Principals Phil Gibney and Theresa Avery, Administration Coordinator, Stacy Posadas, Grounds Staff Daniel Maynard and Mal Cadd, students and teachers who moved furniture and classes to enable the evening to be a success. My thanks also to Music teacher Amanda Brooks and HSC students Cassidy Donovan and Seren Everingham for their beautiful rendition of ‘Never Hide Your Love’ which closed the formal presentation.
Seren Everingham & Cassidy Donovan
The Awards Presentation was followed by dinner at the Willing Post Function Centre at Taree Racecourse. My thanks to the management team at Taree Racecourse and the St Clare’s Hospitality team under the care of staff member Laurent Gonfond for their excellent work to ensure an enjoyable evening was had by all who were able to attend.
I am delighted to announce that St Clare’s has received State Government funding for the provision of a wellbeing dog. A big thank you to local member Steve Bromhead for his support of the St Clare’s application and to Wellbeing Mentor Marian Parvin who has led the work on this great initiative.
Brady Lambert, Marian Parvin, Peter Nicholls & Karma-Anne Van Der Merwe
Change in Billing for 2023
In 2023 parents and caregivers will notice a change in the billing cost of the St Clare’s High School Resource Fee. In 2023 the Resource Fee of $900 will cover:
- All Text Book hire
- All Excursions
- All Reflection Days
- All IT Resources
- All Camps and Year 11 Senior Retreat (except Year 9 Snowy Excursion and Year 12 Sea World Hospitality Excursion)
- Pastoral Diaries – Years 7 to 10
- Year 10 Sport Shirt and Year 11/12 Senior Jacket
- Year 10 Transition to Stage 6 Social and Activities
- PE First Aid Course
- University Open Days
- RYDA Driver Training
- White Card Training
In closing, I would like to thank all our parents and caregivers for their support of the school. It was great to be able to acknowledge the parents of the 2022 cohort, especially those who had their last child graduating and acknowledge and thank them for their commitment to St Clare’s and Catholic Education.
God Bless
Peter Nicholls
Principal
Appointment of Acting Principal 2023 - St Clare's Taree
Dear Colleagues
Given that current Principal, Peter Nichols will be taking leave in 2023, interviews were held recently for the position of Acting Principal at St Clare’s High School Taree for 2023. As a result of these interview Fr Greg Barker, Diocesan Administrator and myself have accepted the panel decision to appoint Mr Phil Gibney as Acting Principal for 2023.
Phil’s previous leadership experience has included Acting Principal, Pastoral Care Coordinator, KLA Coordinator and Year Coordinator. The key in each of these positions has been to provide strong leadership in the areas of Pastoral Care/Wellbeing, Teaching and Learning and the Faith Development of students and the professional development, support and wellbeing of staff.
Phil actively supports the ministry coordinator in the organisation of school liturgies, reflection days and staff reflection days, retreats, feast days as well as actively participating or leading elements of these rituals or faith formation opportunities.
Parish Priest and member of the interview panel, Fr Kevin Corrigan supports this appointment.
Phil’s qualifications include:
- Bachelor of Education (Secondary) ACU – Technological and Applied Studies and Religious Education
We wish Phil well as he takes up the responsibility of Acting Principal for 2023.
With thanks
Gerard
GERARD MOWBRAY
DIRECTOR OF SCHOOLS, CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OFFICE
Parents/Carers who hold a current Health Care Card or Pension Card, please contact the Bursar on 6552 3300 Option 2.
Maryann Hammond
Bursar
Mass Times
Forster-Tuncurry Catholic Parish
Our current Mass times are Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 8 am and 10 am.
To join our 8am Sunday Mass live stream, please send us your email address to receive the link.
Further updates can be viewed on the Forster-Tuncurry Parish Website:
Taree Catholic Parish
Saturday, 19 November
4:00 pm – Reconciliation & Rosary at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church Wingham
4:45 pm - Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church Wingham
6:00 pm – Harrington SCAE
6:15 pm - Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Church Taree
Sunday, 20 November
7:00 am - Old Bar Rosary
7:30 am – Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Church Old Bar
9:30 am - Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Church Taree
Further updates can be viewed on the Taree Parish Website:
Youth Mass 2022
The Youth Mass occurs the second Sunday of each month at Our Lady of the Rosary Taree. This happened throughout 2022 with only a few months missed due to other commitments of our wonderful teachers that support the Youth in providing the music for these services.
The youth who take part are singers, violists, readers and Alter Servers and more youth are always welcome to join in!
At Old Bar Parish Our Lady of Fatima we also encourage and love to have youth at the 7:30 am Mass to Alter serve and read, so if you are local to Old Bar we would love to have you!
Anyone interested in being a reader, alter server or musician can contact Laura or Bernadette Boere at the school email addresses: Bernadette.boere@mn.catholic.edu.au or Laura.boere@mn.catholic.edu.au
We would like to thank all those involved at the Youth Mass every month, Amalin Baijush, Leonel Senson, Nicholas Boere, Rufus Rowe, Emily Boere, Cornell Estibeiro, Makayla Boere and Ailey Boere and to our teachers who support in the music area - Mrs Carmel Brown, Mrs Jenny McKendry (both past St Clare’s teachers) and Mrs Karen McCann our very own VET and Careers Coordinator!
The congregation love to have the youth participate at Mass and it is low key and not something to fear.
Bernadette Boere
Year 12 Graduation & Awards Presentation
Special Awards
Reuben F Scarf Award - Georgia Rourke
Ampol Best All Rounder - Zaiden Theophanous
Federal Member Community Service Award - Lachlan Monks
Australian Defence Force 2022 Long Tan Youth Leadership & Teamwork Award - Medinah Wells
Australian Defence Force 2022 Future Innovators Award - Charles Pitt
Carol Healey Hospitality Award - Astyn Strybis
University of New England Vice-Chancellor’s High Achievement Prize - Astyn Strybis
Taree Universities Campus Go Further Award - Haley Patel
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Academic Excellence in Year 12 - Bianca Kukas
Mid Coast Connect Vocational Education & Training Award - Mhalikai Mercy
Joel Dark Memorial Award - Lucy Green
St Clare’s High School Major Awards
Academic Excellence Award - Seren Everingham
Diligence Award - Bradley Brincat
Citizenship Award - Nicholas Avery
Leadership Award - Seren Everingham
CLARE Award - Isaac Earle-Broadley
School Captain 2022 - Charles Pitt
School Captain 2022 - Medinah Wells
School Vice-Captain 2022 - Lachlan Monks
School Vice-Captain 2022 - Lucy Green
Year 12 Semester II Awards – 2022
Mackenzie Banham
2ND IN STUDIES OF RELIGION 2 UNIT
2ND IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
3RD IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Peter Bawden
1ST IN ENGINEERING STUDIES
3RD IN PHYSICS
Hannah Boere
1ST IN ENGLISH STANDARD
1ST IN VISUAL ARTS
Jye Boughton
1ST IN ENGLISH STUDIES
1ST IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (METAL)
EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION
Haylee Brabant
3RD IN BUSINESS STUDIES
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Bradley Brincat
1ST IN BIOLOGY
2ND IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
3RD IN ENGLISH ADVANCED
Simon Collins
1ST IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD 2
3RD IN SOCIETY & CULTURE
Alexandra Cross
3RD IN ANCIENT HISTORY
Leanne Curtis
3RD IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD 2
Byron De La Cruz
1ST IN STUDIES IN CATHOLIC THOUGHT
Luca Dodd-McWilliams
1ST IN SOCIETY & CULTURE
2ND IN MODERN HISTORY
2ND IN MUSIC 1
Marko Dokonal
ITALIAN BEGINNERS EXCELLENCE AWARD
Cassidy Donovan
3RD IN MUSIC 1
Billie Dries
EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY (KITCHEN OPERATIONS)
Isaac Earle-Broadley
2ND IN EARTH & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Seren Everingham
1ST IN ENGLISH EXTENSION 1
1ST IN ENGLISH ADVANCED
1ST IN MATHEMATICS ADVANCED
1ST IN BUSINESS STUDIES
1ST IN STUDIES OF RELIGION 1 UNIT
1ST IN MUSIC 1
Ella Farland
3RD IN VISUAL ARTS
MERIT IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
Thomas Fidock
1ST IN MATHEMATICS EXTENSION 1
1ST IN PHYSICS
1ST IN CHEMISTRY
Eliza Forsayth
2ND IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD 2
MERIT IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
Lucy Green
2ND IN ENGLISH STANDARD
2ND IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER)
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD 2
MERIT IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Divya Gupta
2ND IN STUDIES OF RELIGION 1 UNIT
3RD IN CHEMISTRY
Boyd Henry
3RD IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER)
William Hovermann
2ND IN SOCIETY & CULTURE
Bianca Kukas
1ST IN MODERN HISTORY
1ST IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (TIMBER)
Mhalikai Mercy
2ND IN STUDIES IN CATHOLIC THOUGHT
EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION
EXCELLENCE IN SPORT COACHING
Lachlan Monks
2ND IN BUSINESS STUDIES
Bridie O’Connell
1ST IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
2ND IN VISUAL ARTS
3RD IN STUDIES OF RELIGION 2 UNIT
Haley Patel
2ND IN MATHEMATICS ADVANCED
2ND IN CHEMISTRY
Charles Pitt
2ND IN PHYSICS
2ND IN ENGINEERING STUDIES
Ky Porst
3RD IN BIOLOGY
Sophie Robinson
EQUAL 3RD IN MODERN HISTORY
Georgia Rourke
EQUAL 1ST IN DRAMA
2ND IN ENGLISH ADVANCED
2ND IN BIOLOGY
3RD IN MATHEMATICS ADVANCED
FRENCH BEGINNERS EXCELLENCE AWARD
Fraser Simpson
1ST IN EARTH & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Taj Simpson
1ST IN MATHEMATICS EXTENSION 2
EQUAL 1ST IN DRAMA
Brooke Smith
2ND IN ANCIENT HISTORY
Astyn Strybis
3RD IN EARTH & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY (KITCHEN OPERATIONS)
Zaiden Theophanous
1ST IN STUDIES OF RELIGION 2 UNIT
1ST IN ANCIENT HISTORY
1ST IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Joshua Voetterl
3RD IN LEGAL STUDIES
MERIT IN ENGLISH STANDARD
Lauren Weeks
1ST IN LEGAL STUDIES
Medinah Wells
1ST IN ENGLISH EXTENSION 2
2ND IN LEGAL STUDIES
3RD IN STUDIES OF RELIGION 1 UNIT
3RD IN DRAMA
Mitchell Wisemantel
3RD IN STUDIES IN CATHOLIC THOUGHT
EXCELLENCE IN WORK STUDIES
Alexandra Wollaston
EQUAL 3RD IN MODERN HISTORY
Emily Wood
3RD IN COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
Mitchell Young
3RD IN ENGLISH STANDARD
MERIT IN MATHEMATICS STANDARD 2
We would like to extend our congratulations to Bridie O’Connell of Year 12. Bridie’s Visual Arts Body of Work (BOW) has been nominated for selection in the 2023 ARTEXPRESS exhibition.
ARTEXPRESS is an annual series of exhibitions held at various venues across Sydney, that displays exemplary artworks created by New South Wales Visual arts students for the Higher School Certificate and is an incredible achievement for Bridie!
Bridie’s BOW titled ‘Unfiltered’, is a representation of the effort behind the images that people share on social media that are seemingly effortless.
Bridie says: "My piece, "Unfiltered", explores how we share images on social media and the editing processes behind them. We compare ourselves so often to the seemingly perfect photos people share of themselves without considering the changes that have been made to the photo to make it look a certain way. This issue is so prominent in my generation, and I wanted to try and explore it and illustrate the process behind taking, editing and posting the photos we see and compare ourselves to on these social platforms.”
Thank you to Mr Jason Koenig for assisting and supporting Bridie through this process. Well done!
We wish Bridie every success in the possibility of being selected for the 2023 ARTEXPRESS exhibition!
Rebecca Huett
Leader of Learning, Creative Arts
The evening was a great success with many attendees enjoying the exhibition of visual artworks created using a variety of two and three-dimensional media, including printmaking, photography, painting, fibre art and sculpture. Whilst patrons viewed the works on display, our talented Music students performed a range of vocal and instrumental pieces. Many enjoyed the music whilst wandering amongst the art, whilst others took the time to stop and admire the music talent on display.
Well done to the staff and students involved in all the behind-the-scenes work and of course to the students who created the artworks and entertained us with musical items, it could not have been as successful a night without you!
We look forward to hosting this creative event each year from now on, so keep an eye out for the details in 2023.
Mrs Rebecca Huett
Creative Arts Leader of Learning
Year 11 Design – Foliage Dyeing
This is a natural dyeing method that creates botanical prints from flowers, petals, leaves, herbs and vegetables.
Tamara Bennett, Lucy Hallot, Noah Harris, Ella Parvin, Hannah Pocock-Scott & Karma-Anne Van Der Merwe
The technique works by creating imprints of flowers, petals, leaves, herbs and vegetables onto a sample of natural fabric. We used flowers and leaves as the main feature of our designs. They were placed between two layers of cotton lawn and hit and rolled with a rolling pin. They were left wrapped overnight and then released and heat set the next day. We were excited with the results.
Theresa Avery
Assistant Principal, Learning & Teaching
Successful Wellbeing Dog Application
St Clare’s is very excited to announce that we have been successful in our application for a grant through the NSW Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery Initiative. As a result, we have received the funding for a wellbeing dog. We have chosen to work with ‘Dogs Connect’. This is an innovative wellbeing program, introducing a wellbeing dog into the community with the aim of improving school culture by focussing on positive, meaningful and sustainable connection. They will source and supply the puppy, train a core group of primary carers, train the staff, and train the community.
The birth of the puppy is expected any day and we will then begin a process of naming it and preparing it for entry into the St Clare’s community.
We will begin training at the start of next year… with the goal of introducing the puppy into the school by July 2023.
A big thank you to the committee who helped write the application for funding, and our core group of carers Lisa Mumford, Theresa Avery, Matt Hanlon, Jason Koenig, Marian Parvin, and Jeremy Hobbes.
Marian Parvin
Wellbeing Mentor
Year 8 Students Represent Australia in the Auckland International Futsal Cup
Congratulations to two Year 8 students Cohen Shoesmith and Cornell Estibeiro for representing Australia in the Under14’s Australian Futsal Team, the team have recently travelled to New Zealand to compete in the Auckland International Futsal Cup. The boys had great success in all games played and had a wonderful tour of New Zealand. The report below details Cohen and Cornell’s successes and some information about their journey. It is fantastic to see members of the School Community representing St Clare’s on an international stage. Well done again to Cohen and Cornell and a special thank you to their parents for supplying the report and photos to share.
St Clare’s Students Cornell Estibeiro and Cohen Shoesmith representing Australia U14’s Futsal Tour of New Zealand last month
“During the first day of the Auckland International Futsal Cup competition the team played against very strong Auckland teams, both U12’s and U14’s were tested. They won their first match 5-2. Lost the second match, 4-7 but got to play in the finals on Day 2 of the tournament. Cohen was given player of the match for the second game. Day 6 – Second day of the Auckland International Futsal Cup. Game 1 was a draw, 3-all. No penalty shoot-out, it was decided by unconventional American one-on-one scoring. New Zealand team won with another 2 goals scored from the unfamiliar method for the boys. On our last day in Auckland started with some training and then both teams combined and played a very friendly ‘friendly’ with Parnell Intermediate School the combined Australian team won 11-7. After a game with the school students, the Australian boys and coaches combined to make two teams and play each other. It was great to watch and all had a good time with lots of laughs and bonding. Overall the U14’s, that Cornell and Cohen were in, came 4th in the Tournament.”
All day training - both teams trained at Epsom Gym on the grounds of Auckland University
The two coaches and tour leader addressing the boys before training begins – first time all the players really had a chance to meet and greet
U14’s team and their coach after their ‘friendly’ win against Auckland Normal Intermediate School
Jamaya Pearse
Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement
Careers Corner
Here we are at the end of Week 6 – before we know it, it will be Christmas time!
Last Friday, 11 November saw the 2022 Year 12 Cohort graduate, with a wonderful Award Ceremony at school followed by the graduation dinner at the Wining Post Function Centre in Taree. The students looked magnificent and enjoyed the evening.
A huge thank you to Callam Howard who worked tirelessly from the early afternoon with photos on the riverbank all the way through to the end of the dinner at the Winning Post Function Centre. Everyone should have access to the photos by now. Thank you Cal!
Each of the graduands were recognised and received their portfolio with their report, reference and certificates as appropriate.
Thanks also to Lisa Ruprecht and Kerry for their organisation, and to Johnathon (Head Chef) for the wonderful meal. The Year 11 Hospitality students also did a great job in the setting up and then serving and clearing the meals. This was a great experience for them, and they have been offered part-time work if they would like, as a result of their efforts.
There are several Year 12 students who have received early offers for university already with more rounds of offers to come over the next few months.
I would like to remind anyone that is applying for EAS via UAC that the due date for all of this information is:
Midnight Thursday, 22 November 2022 to ensure you receive your eligibility letter in time to change your preferences for Round 2.
I have already worked with quite a few students in regard to this and I am happy to help with anything else that I can. Students and/or parents can contact me by phone (6552 3300) or by email (karen.mccann@mn.catholic.edu.au) to arrange a suitable time to meet. This can be via Zoom if necessary.
With regard to SRS offers, I have included information directly from the UAC website as follows:
Offers
Participating institutions can use a range of criteria when making SRS offers, including your: school’s rating of your aptitudes − Year 11 studies − Educational Access Scheme (EAS) application (if applicable).
Each institution has its own policies on determining SRS eligibility and making offers. If your application is successful, you will receive your offer by email in November.
There are two types of SRS offers: unconditional offers (which have no further criteria for you to meet) − conditional offers (which require you to meet additional criteria).
In November, you can receive one unconditional offer and one or more conditional offers.
Unconditional offers: Accept your unconditional offer, even if it’s for your lowest course preference. You will automatically be considered for your higher preferences in later rounds. If you receive an unconditional offer to one of your higher preferences and want to be considered for all your other preferences in later rounds: accept the offer − log in to your UAC undergraduate application, go to ‘Update course preferences’ and move that course down to the bottom of your course preference list or remove it entirely (as long as you have accepted the offer, you can’t lose it).
Key dates Schools Recommendation Scheme 2022 – 19 September SRS applications close
11 November - First SRS conditional and unconditional offers released
22 December - Conditional SRS offers converted to unconditional offers
12 January 2023 - Conditional SRS offers converted to unconditional offers
Schools Recommendation Scheme 03 If you then receive an offer to a course in your new list, you can decide whether to accept it and withdraw from your original course, or not accept the new offer and keep your place in your original course.
Conditional offers: To convert your conditional offer to an unconditional offer, you must: meet the condition/s stipulated in the offer − meet all other institution requirements for that course − include the course in your list of preferences by midnight 16 December 2022 (closing date of change of preference for December Round 2).
Unsuccessful applicants
UAC won’t advise applicants who do not receive an offer through SRS. An unsuccessful SRS application has no effect on your UAC undergraduate application.
Year 12 results and ATAR dates:
2022 NSW HSC Students
Thursday, 15 December 2022
HSC results released by NESA from 6 am
ATARs released on UAC website from 9 am Thursday, 15 December 2022
Over the past weeks I have received quite a few emails from employers looking for students to fill positions. Mid Coast Connect and VERTO send me information about apprenticeships and traineeships in our area and Mid Coast Council have advertised several positions for 2023. I have emailed all the information to the students in Years 10, 11 and 12. So please CHECK YOUR EMAILS.
I also put the information in the Year Group Careers OneNote which all the students should have access to.
With regard to some of these positions, any interested students need to come and see me for further information. That information is in the email if relevant.
Below is a wealth of information for parents and students regarding numerous post school pathways, courtesy of the Careers Association of Australia.
Course Changes & New Courses
ACU Take a small step into university with ACU’s Diploma in Exercise Science The diploma offers a pathway for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements of their preferred bachelor’s degree. After successfully completing a diploma, students gain credit for first-year entry to a range of undergraduate degrees in their chosen discipline, allowing them to transition straight into second year. Learn more:
AGRADE EDUCATION AND TRAINING PTY LTD Find out about the Childcare and Aged Care Diploma and Certificate III courses on offer. Classes are online via zoom and have supportive teachers to assist students. Upon completion students may work in AGrade Education and Training centres, as most of the students find work during studies. The main campus is at Kent St Sydney. Please call on 0451697742/ 1300 885 508
BEDFORD COLLEGE Bedford College has opened a new campus in Sydney's CBD, offering the Diploma of Business and Diploma of Leadership and Management in the city in 2023. Contact enquire@bedford.edu.au or visit
to learn more about Bedford's City and Norwest campuses.
UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY New Astrophysics and Life Sciences programs available. Astrophysics program will allow students to explore astronomy and astrophysics, through a physics major and additional units in data science, cosmology, mathematics and more. Life Sciences program will teach students about a range of interconnected disciplines including, biology, biochemistry, genetics, and more. Both can be accessed through the B. Science or B. Science/B. Advanced Studies.
UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY New major in High Performance Sport. Students will learn about sports science, how interdisciplinary factors influence high performance, the athletic development process, the application of measurement and testing techniques to evaluate athletic performance, and how to design appropriate training/intervention programs. This major is available across a range of degrees, from the B. Arts to the B. Applied Science (Exercise and Sport).
WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY The School of Education has a new Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) degree. It is designed to meet the growing demand for early childhood teachers across Sydney and New South Wales. Find more information and how to apply, visit here:
Courses & Workshops for Students
ACADEMY OF INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT An AIE Event Officer will bring an industry expert teacher along to run students through a Design, Programming or Art workshop aimed at giving students hands-on experience with software used in the Game and Film Industry. Register Here:
ACTA COLLEGE ACTA College is currently taking enrolments for the following 2 Fee Free* qualifications, the CPC40120 Certificate IV in Building and Construction and the CPC30220 Certificate III in Carpentry. Both courses are funded by Smart and Skilled for the eligible students. Call Mayssa on 0474 500 470 or email: mayssa@actacollege.edu.au for more information.
AUSTRALIAN NEWSROOM JOURNALISM Australian Newsroom Journalism supports students wishing to follow a career in media. ANJ have produced the first of a planned series of bulletins aimed at providing ongoing up-to-date information on material available on the website. The bulletins, also free of charge, are on the same website as the posts:
CIT JobTrainer at CIT is offering bootcamp style courses in November. Designed for those seeking to first enter the workforce, these courses are FEE-FREE for eligible students. JobTrainer is a jointly funded initiative of the Commonwealth, state and territory governments, offering free vocational education and training to eligible young people and job seekers across ACT. Visit
HTN - CUTTING EDGE CAREERS are running a pre-apprenticeship course as a pathway to cookery. Learn basic kitchen skills & gain valuable work experience that will start you on your journey into hospitality. - Course starts: 9 November 2022 - Registrations close: 3 November 2022 - For more information contact - Hope Hoyle - E: Hope.Hoyle@intowork.com.au - M: 0408 798 895
INSTITUTE OF CREATIVE ARTS AND TECHNOLOGY ICAT Open Day Wed 7 & Sat 10 December 2022. Find out about the courses on offer, view the campus and meet the lecturers. Staff will be on hand to answer your questions regarding fees, enrolments, and career pathways in the creative arts and technology industry. 11.00am & 2.00pm, 55 Regent St, Chippendale, NSW 2008. RSVP hello@icat.edu.au or (02) 9698 9919
JSCHOOL JOURNALISM COLLEGE Three online units from Jschool's Diploma of Journalism are on offer to keen senior secondary students this summer - Introduction to Reporting, Shorthand (speed writing) and History, Literature & Language for Journalists. The units would also help graduating seniors planning tertiary study in journalism or media:
or email jschool@jschool.com.au
THE FASHION INSTITUTE The Fashion Institute Open Day Wed 7 & Sat 10 December 2022. Find out about the courses on offer, view the campus and meet the lecturers. Staff will be on hand to answer your questions regarding fees, enrolments, and career pathways in the fashion industry. 11.00am & 2.00pm, 55 Regent St, Chippendale, NSW 2008. RSVP hello@thefashioninstitute.com.au or (02) 9698 9919
WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY Registrations for Undergraduate Certificate online courses are open to the community. With short courses in Health, Information Technology, and Business, there is potential to receive a Diploma and even an undergraduate degree, the choice is yours. Visit
Information Sessions for Students & Parents
ACADEMY OF INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, 3D animation, film and visual effects at the AIE Open Day on Sat 19 November 2022. This event will be held at AIE Campuses in Sydney and Canberra from 10am to 3pm. AIE's Open Day is a great opportunity to meet the teachers, staff and students. Register Here:
ACS FOUNDATION Join ACS at Australian National University on Tuesday 6 June 2023 for BiG Day In Canberra Hear from organisations such as Australian Space Agency, Australian Signals Directorate, IBM, Defence Force Recruiting, Adobe & loads more to come, to learn where a STEM career can take you. FREE TO ATTEND & LUNCH PROVIDED FOR ALL ATTENDEES.
AUSTRALIAN CAREERS BUSINESS COLLEGE Open Day, 23 November. ACBC’s campus open day is an opportunity for students and parents to come and explore ATAR-free VET options for 2023 and beyond. Careers Advisors will be on hand to provide insights into ACBC’s highly regarded programs. Information is available for fulltime, online and Traineeship options. Go to
for more info and to register call 02 9824 0000.
ICMS Mark your calendars for ICMS' Degree Taster Day on 19 January! Future students have the chance to come in and see what a day in the life of an ICMS student is like. Enjoy a personal development workshop and ‘Taste test’ lecture sessions. The event is free of cost for students in Years 9-12 students and lunch is provided. Email Carmen at cherin@icms.edu.au to let ICMS know you are coming!
SAE CREATIVE MEDIA INSTITUTE SAE Sydney and Byron Bay’s Open House event: 15th December 6pm-8pm. SAE Sydney and Byron Bay are excited to host their final events for 2022. Open House is your student’s one-stop event to experience what it is like to be an SAE student. Chat to SAE’s faculty and course advisors, explore the campus and enjoy student work on display. To register, head to their website:
Job & Work Experience for Students
ICMS Pier One Sydney Harbour Hotel, one of ICMS' Work Integrated Learning Partners, are hiring! Roles available are in the Events and Food & Beverage Departments. Pay starts at $22.85 per hour, no experience is needed, and training is provided. Email Fiona.Pereira@marriott.com for more information.
Resources for Students
Year13 virtual Tech Expo promoting careers in the tech sector will continue
indefinitely. The Expo aims to inform youth, parents & careers advisors on the great job opportunities in tech industries. There are links to employers, educators & industry experts & Women in Technology. Women are especially encouraged to follow this link to the Year 13 Tech Expo:
ACU Pathways Finder Tool There are alternative pathways into a course if a student doesn’t receive the ATAR they were hoping for, including the Foundation Studies program, certificates and diplomas. Use the pathways finder tool to narrow down admission pathways for a study area or course of interest and explore your options.
CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY Living on campus options. Make connections and get immersed in campus life – these are a couple of the perks of living on campus. CSU also offer all first-year students applying for accommodation a guaranteed place on most campuses. To be eligible, students must complete their application by 31 December 2022. For more information:
Scholarships, Early Entry, Alternative Pathways
CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY New scholarship for future civil engineers. We’re excited to let you know about the new engineering scholarship in partnership with Transgrid. The scholarships will be delivered to students in four annual instalments of $5,000 to help cover the ongoing costs associated with their studies. For more information:
CQ UNIVERSITY Scholarships Open. Applications for 2023 scholarships are open now! The financial boost can ease the pressure of paying for study materials like textbooks, uniforms, laptops, as well as relocation and living expenses, allowing students to put more energy into their studies. CQU offer scholarships for every study area, study level and citizenship. Check out what scholarships are available at
ICMS Applications for the ICMS Professional Scholarship will close on 16 November 2022. All scholarships cover partial tuition fees for study and/or accommodation at the discretion of the Scholarship Board’s selection. Tuition fees can be up to $29,000 and is awarded to successful applicants each February. Visit
TORRENS UNIVERSITY Early Entry Program, closing soon. Apply now to secure your place at Torrens University through the Early Entry Program. A conditional offer is open to all Year 12 students in NSW, QLD and SA* and applying is easy. Give yourself peace of mind as you go into your exam period. No cost to apply, no obligations, can be deferred. Closes soon. Find out more:
*Exceptions apply
UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY The CAE Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engineering Scholarship is an undergraduate scholarship, valued at $10,000 per year for up to four years, established to support an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student to study engineering or a related discipline and closes on Monday 28/11/22. See the following link for more information and to apply:
UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY Scholarships are available to provide financial support to current school leaver undergraduate students who can demonstrate financial hardship, a medical condition, or are from a rural or remote area studying at the Faculty of Engineering. It is valued at $12,000 per year for the duration of the degree. Applications close on Friday 18/11/22. For more information, see:
UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY The CAE Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engineering Scholarship is an undergraduate scholarship, valued at $10,000 per year for up to four years, has been established to encourage and support an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student to study engineering or a related discipline at the Faculty of Engineering. Applications close on Monday 28/11/22. For more information on this and other scholarships, please see:
WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY Current school leavers are eligible for bonus points or adjustment factors when applying through UAC. Up to 10 bonus points in total may be available to you. Visit the Bonus Points page to see if you meet one or more criteria:
UOW COLLEGE After surviving an aggressive form of cancer in her first years of high school, Sofia Tsalidis was forced to leave school before completing Year 12. Now she is just months away from finishing her Bachelor of Medical and Health Science at the University of Wollongong. Read more about Sofia's story here >
UOW COLLEGE As an international student from India, Keval had to navigate a lot of paperwork to begin his tertiary education in a foreign country. “I decided to go to UOW College as I knew that if I did my Diploma of Engineering there I could start my second year in the Bachelor of Engineering” Read more about Keval's story here >
Traineeships, Cadetships, Apprenticeships - Information & Opportunities
1300APPRENTICE 2023 Apprentice & Trainee intake, secure your career early with 1300apprentice. Learn about the choice of careers on offer & secure your place now, apprenticeships & traineeships start in 2023. Apply today in 3 steps. 1. Have your resume ready 2. Choose a vocation and say why in a cover letter 3. Submit online. Go to
and search INTAKE. Explore the website for more info.
HTN & MRAEL (part of IntoWork Australia) Did you know that some occupations allow you to claim up to $5,000 in funding to help with the cost of living expenses while completing certain apprenticeships and traineeships? Did you know that there are other benefits to support trainees or apprentices? Find out more by contacting Hope Hoyle - E: hope.hoyle@gmail.com - M: 0408 798 895
HTN & MRAEL (part of IntoWork Australia) Joining HTN as an Apprentice or Trainee comes with heaps of benefits! Earn a wage while completing your qualification, receive training from skilled tradespeople, access specialist coaching, mentoring & wellbeing support with regular visits & build your experience with more than one host employer. Find out more contact Hope Hoyle - E: hope@intowork.com.au – M: 0408 798 895
MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF NSW are taking applications now for apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities in the Northern Beaches and Northern Sydney area. MBA NSW have opportunities within multiple trades for all ages and entry levels. Suitable for those who have the commitment and drive to commence and complete an apprenticeship in the building and construction industry. For more information, please email careers@mbansw.asn.au
MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF NSW The all-female Pre-Apprenticeship program is a 3-week entry-level training program that provides an introduction to both the industry and carpentry prior to commencing an apprenticeship. MBA NSW aim to provide a safe and encouraging environment for women to learn about career opportunities in the industry. For further information visit
TRANSPORT FOR NSW The information for RDIT Parkes is now live. Please see the main external links below:
Work Experience
There are many students doing Work Experience at the moment and this is a great way to “get a foot in the door” and impress prospective employers. Please come and see me to get the paperwork if you are interested.
Year 10 Transition Program
Year 10 are about to begin their transition program with some great activities and presentations to help get them ready for Senior School and beyond.
One of the activities on offer is the “My Future Finder” program which is being run by UNE and is a great way to begin thinking about the various post school pathways available.
We also have Codi-Lee Murray from Mission Australia who will be delivering the Workforce Australia - employment services program. This is aimed at young people from 15-24 years old and provides help and support in transitioning to work.
Codie-Lee also spoke to Year 11 last Friday about the services and help they offer.
Today, Year 11 will be hearing from Anne Keen (a published author) and her pathway into her career. This is another of the presentations organised by Erin Lute from RIEP – thanks again, Erin.
If anyone would like any assistance with anything to do with Careers or Vocation Education, please do not hesitate to contact me by phone (6552 3300) or by email karen.mccann@mn.catholic.edu.au
Karen McCann
Careers/VET Adviser
Term 4 2022
Week 7 |
|
|
Monday |
21 November |
Year 8 Examinations Commence |
|
|
Year 7 DigiEd |
Tuesday |
22 November |
Girls League Tag Challenge Hastings/Manning Region – Port Macquarie |
Thursday |
24 November |
Year 10 Love Bites Program |
Friday |
25 November |
Year 10 Reflection Day |
Week 8 |
|
|
Tuesday |
29 November |
Year 10 Geography Excursion – WildNets Adventure Park |
Thursday |
1 December |
Rugby League 7’s - Port Macquarie |
Friday |
2 December |
Year 10/Year 6 Peer Support Day – Recreation Grounds |
Week 9 |
|
|
Monday |
5 December |
Year 10 Stoney Aqua Park Excursion |
Tuesday |
6 December |
Year 10 Awards Ceremony – 9:30 am |
Wednesday |
7 December |
Year 10 Social – 6 pm, Club Taree Year 9 Reflection Day – Crowdy Head |
Friday |
9 December |
Year 7 Reflection Day – Crowdy Head |
Week 10 |
|
|
Thursday |
15 December |
Years 7, 8, 9 & 11 Annual Awards Ceremony Term 4 Concludes for Students HSC results released by NESA from 6 am ATARs released on UAC website from 9 am |
Friday |
16 December |
Specific Parent/Teacher Interviews as requested by school Professional Development Day – Pupil Free Day |
Week 11 |
|
|
Monday |
19 December |
Professional Development Day – Pupil Free Day |
Tuesday |
20 December |
Professional Development Day – Pupil Free Day Term 4 Concludes for Staff |
Term 1 2023
|
|
|
Friday |
27 January |
Professional Development Day – Pupil Free Day Term 1 Commences for Staff |
Week 1 |
|
|
Monday |
30 January |
Professional Development Day – Pupil Free Day |
Tuesday |
31 January |
Years 7, 11 & 12 Commence |
Wednesday |
1 February |
Years 8, 9 & 10 Commence |
Week 2 |
|
|
Tuesday |
7 February |
Dux Assembly |
Thursday |
9 February |
Year 7 Swimming Assessment |
Week 3 |
|
|
Wednesday |
15 February |
School Photos |
Friday |
17 February |
Swimming Carnival |
Week 6 |
|
|
Wednesday |
8 March |
Year 7 Camp Commences |
Friday |
10 March |
Year 7 Camp Concludes |