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Dear parents, friends, staff and students,
In this Sunday’s Gospel (Mark 12: 28-34), Jesus clearly but simply clarifies the two most important directions for living a good life. The first is that we must love God completely and the second is that we must love our neighbour as ourselves. These statements require us to consider how we think, behave and plan. In many ways, the two cannot be separated. In a very simplistic interpretation of this, if we love God completely, we must automatically love ourselves. If we love ourselves, we must love our neighbour, and if we love our neighbour, we are displaying a love for God. One of the biggest challenges within this however is not just about how we think, or love, but about how we put that into action. Within our community it would be reflected in how we speak to others, what we say on social media, what we do when someone else needs help. Often our decisions need to occur immediately and upon reflection, we could have acted in a different way but when we change our thinking to ensure our starting point is from the perspective of a love of God, love of self and love of neighbour, we are certainly on the right path.
Today is All Saints’ Day which followed All Souls’ Day on October 31. Whilst the more secular observation of Halloween has taken precedent in modern society, it is important to remember what these days signify. We take time to remember those whom we love and have passed on to eternal life. This is not a time of fear or sorrow but should be a joy to know that they now rest in the eternal peace of Christ. Happy All Saints Day.
Next Wednesday evening we will host our Year 12, 2025, commencement evening. On Friday, we will be acknowledging our Year 11 students for their academic successes during their Academic Assembly. Parents are welcome at both events.
Week 5 will see the last Parents and Friends meeting for 2024. Whilst I will be on a short leave break at this time, Mss Giles and Mr Huntly will continue with the meeting and will provide an opportunity for parents to view the newest refurbishments. In anticipation, I encourage parents to attend and thank Ms Giles and Mr Huntly for their presentations. Thank you also to the P&F and especially the P&F executive for their continued support.
A reminder that Friday Nov 15 (week 5) and Monday Nov 18 (week 6) are our scheduled pupil free days so that our staff can work on programs and planning for the new HSC syllabuses that have being progressively implemented. Thank you once again for your understanding as we use these opportunities to build the best programs possible to teach your children.
Ite in Veritate
Mr Steve Lo Cascio
Staff Development Days
To facilitate this preparation for 2025, staff will be participating in two staff development days on Friday 15 November (Week 5) and Monday 18 November (Week 6). The focus of these two days is programming and development of course materials for new course syllabi for implementation from Term 1. Students are not required to attend the College on these two days.
2025 College Term Dates
The following information is provided for students and their families to assist in forward planning for the 2025 school year. A more detailed 2025 College Calendar can be accessed through COMPASS as staff complete their planning.
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Term 1 |
Students in Year 7 & 12; Return - Monday 3 February Students in Year 8, 9, 10 & 11; Return - Tuesday 4 February Pupil Free Day; Friday 7 March Last Day of Term; Friday 11 April Note: Easter and Anzac Day occur during holiday break time |
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Term 2 |
Students Return; Monday 28 April Pupil Free Day; Friday 30 May King’s Birthday Public Holiday; Monday 9 June Last Day of Term; Friday 4 July |
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Term 3 |
Students return; Monday 21 July Pupil Free Day; Friday 22 August Last Day of Term; Friday 26 September |
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Term 4 |
Students Return; Monday 13 October Pupil Free Day; TBA Last Day of Term; Friday 19 December |
Stay safe, keep well, go gently.
Ms Samantha Giles
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Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B First Reading Deuteronomy 6:2-6 Love the Lord with all your heart, soul and strength Second Reading Hebrews 7:23-28 The priesthood of Christ lasts forever. Gospel Mark 12:28-34 The wise scribe asks Jesus which is the greatest commandment. |
Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B First Reading 1 Kings 17:10-16 Elijah and the widow at Sidon. Second Reading Hebrews 9:24-28 Christ will appear again to bring salvation. Gospel Mark 12:38-44 The widow's mite. |
Year 11 has just returned from their Senior Retreat. This is a significant formation experience with the program being based on the passage
But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. (Isaiah 43: 1-2)
Over the three days, the students had the time to reflect on who they are and who and what has shaped them during their time at the College.
Mrs Christine Meharg
HSC 2025 Commencement Evening - Wednesday 6 Nov - 7pm
Information regarding the commencement of the 2025 HSC will be presented in the Champagnat Centre on the evening of Wednesday 6 November at 7pm. The purpose of this evening is to provide students and their parents with information on the structure of the HSC, Assessment Policies and Procedures, NESA requirements, as well as strategies for HSC success. Year 11 students are expected to attend in their College uniform with a parent/guardian.
Year 11 Academic Reports and End of Course Awards Assembly
Year 11 will receive their Academic Reports via Compass on Friday 1 November. At the next College Assembly on the 8 November, we will celebrate the academic, sporting and cultural achievements of Year 11.
HSC Examinations - Tuesday 15 October - Fri 8 November
The College wishes Year 12 students all the best as they now commenced their HSC examinations. Students are reminded to ensure that they are familiar with their personal exam timetable and are prepared with all the required equipment for each exam. Students are required to be at the College 30 mins prior to the commencement time of each examination.
PROGRESSIVE ACHIEVEMENT TESTING (PAT)
PAT has been designed to provide schools with feedback on student achievement over a period of time. This informs learning and teaching through identifying areas of strength and growth.
Students in Year 7 -10 will complete their Progressive Achievement Testing (PAT) over the next few weeks. More information about when tests will occur will be communicated with students.
TERM 4 |
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| Week 4 |
Year 9 Geography - See assessment notification for specific date Music - See assessment notification for specific date ITT - See assessment notification for specific date Year 7 Geography - See assessment notification for specific date
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| Week 5 |
Year 10 11/11/2024 - 10 Mathematics (5.1,5.2,5.3) Year 9 Computing Technology - See assessment notification for specific date Visual Arts - See assessment notification for specific date Year 7 7 PDHPE - See assessment notification for specific date
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| Week 6 |
Year 9 Mathematics Core and Paths - See assessment notification for specific date Year 8 Visual Arts - See assessment notification for specific date Year 7 Music - See assessment notification for specific date |
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Leader of Learning - Curriculum Pedagogy & Leader of Learning - Curriculum Administration
The past week has been another active one in terms of providing opportunities for students to engage in a range of activities and initiatives that enhance student wellbeing, faith and learning.
Earlier today, our prospective 2025 House Captains undertook their speeches to their respective House cohorts. Congratulations and thank you to all candidates in Year 9 for their preparation and willingness to assume these positions of responsibility as student leaders. Thank you also to our House Coordinators for their seamless organisation and management of today’s House Assemblies, along with their preparation and administration of the House Captain nomination process. On Monday morning during Pastoral, students were invited to complete the first Pivot Wellbeing Check In survey for Term 4. As has been the case in the previous rounds, the information provided by students allows the College to address both the immediate and long term wellbeing needs of our students. Thanks to all staff and students for their support of this important initiative.
The past three days have also seen our HSC class of 2025 attend their annual Retreat. This is an important part of their transition into the final year of formal schooling and is a wonderful opportunity for students to reflect and refocus as they prepare to commence the challenge of sitting the Higher School Certificate. Thank you to all staff who facilitated the 3 retreat campuses and to our Year 11 cohort for their cooperation and participation in the program. Next week we will be conducting a HSC Information evening on Wednesday night and celebrating the academic achievements of our Year 11 students at a College Assembly on Friday as we formally say goodbye to the Preliminary HSC course and transition to the HSC of 2025.
Please be reminded of the responsibility that students have regarding the use of technology, both with respect to their learning devices and also their personal ones, particularly phones and the need for these to be used appropriately both on site and in non-school hours. We have some issues relating to Social Media that have arisen over the past couple of weeks that have cause for concern. Some matters can be dealt with simply at a school level. However, there are times where external agencies might need to be involved due to the nature of images or comments that students post on their various accounts. We ask that parents and carers continue to monitor the use of technology and social media applications so that posts that may be inflammatory, harassing or demeaning of others are not shared with members of our school community, particularly those that may be in contradiction to laws involving the use of a carriage service to menace, harass or intimidate others. If you would like some guidance regarding the safe and appropriate use of technology and social media, the esafety commission parent portal provides a range of tips and resources for parents.
eSafety Commission: Free Webinars for Parents and Carers
eSafety 101: How eSafety can help
- Wednesday 4 December, 12.30 pm AEDT
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Mr Simon Huntly & Mrs Theresa Moore
Pastoral Care & Wellbeing Coordinators
Around the Grounds
The opening three weeks of Term 4 have been packed with activity, featuring the start of MISA, along with the Diocesan Basketball and AFL Championships. Our six teams showed mixed results in their respective championships. Our Junior and Senior Boys' basketball teams performed exceptionally, narrowly missing a spot in the grand final and both finishing in third place. The girls’ teams faced tougher competition, with our juniors finishing 5th and our seniors 9th.
After basketball, we moved on to the postponed AFL Championships. Our teams faced challenges, with the boys unable to avoid the wooden spoon after a tough match against St John’s from Nowra. However, our girls closed on a high note, defeating John Therry in their final game to secure 7th place.
The busy start continued with some excellent results for our MISA teams, outlined below. Well done to everyone involved!
Term 4 MISA Results
Round 1 - 22 October
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Sport |
Result |
MVP | Short Report |
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Softball Years 7-9 Girls PONT |
VS MAG Win 6-4 |
Ebony Johns |
The girls were nervous going into what was for many their first game of competitive softball. Despite the nervous jitters they all went out onto the diamond confident and ready to play and learn. We came home strong in the second innings getting 5 home. The girls not only showcase their softball abilities but were also demonstrating other strategic skills like stealing bases. Lyla and Oliviya did a great job of pitching. Ebony took on the catching role with gusto and did an exceptional job - earning her our Week 1 MVP. Great job girls. I’m looking forward to watching you all develop as softball players as the season progresses. |
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AFL Years 7-9 Boys KAWA |
VS MAG Loss 27-21 |
Hayden Jones |
The boys came in today with little playing experience and were met by a solid outfit in Magdalene. It was a mostly even contest with intense one on one battles across the park. The boys went down by a single goal with the chance to take the win in the final minutes, but the lack of subs showed in the dying minutes of the game. Congratulations to all involved and onto next week. |
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AFL Years 7-9 Girls ABRN |
vs MAG Loss 36-12 |
Emiy Cooper |
With a new team on board, my senior players worked well to show the junior girls the ropes. It is exciting to see so many developing players. Emily C was our MVP today. Her skills as an AFL player are evident and her goal today proved that. Makailah played with intensity and never let her guard down whilst but unfortunately this wasn't enough the girls were overpowered by a strong Magdalene team. |
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Softball Years 10-12 Girls HOBR
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vs SPT Loss 7-0 |
Hannah Casey & Maria De Lima Goncalves Fernandes Da Mota | In the finals this week, the Senior Girls Softball team faced off against St Patrick's, who showcased superior skills throughout the match. Despite their valiant effort, our team struggled to match the high level of play and ultimately fell short. Nevertheless, they upheld impressive sportsmanship and maintained high spirits, reflecting their dedication and resilience. |
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Indoor Cricket Years 7-9 Boys SULLJ |
vs JTCC Win 86-64 |
Chase Finn |
The boys started their season off well with a big victory over John Therry. Was a close going into the final overs of the second innings but the boys managed to see out the match and set themselves up for a successful season. |
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OzTag Years 7-9 Boys KING |
vs MAG Loss 6-5 |
Kobe Hutchinson |
The boys got off to a strong start, with tries from Kobe Hutchinson and Ryder Faiai. Well-executed set plays and solid defending in the first half kept Magdalene's attack at bay. However, the game remained tight, with both teams scoring back and forth, ultimately ending in a 6-5 win for Magdalene. In the coming weeks, the focus will be on improving our defence. Despite the loss, it's still a promising start for the junior team. |
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OzTag Years 7-9 Girls HEAS |
vs MAG Loss 12-0 |
Ruby Grant |
In warm conditions the girls came up against Magdalene who showed great skill and overall performance which proved to be too strong. The girls unfortunately lost 12-0, however Ruby Grant demonstrated great resilience in defense chasing down the Magdalene breakaways. Disney Teiotu also had a great game, showcasing attacking runs and consistent play making. Looking forward to next week's challenge. |
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Ultimate Frisbee Years 10-12 MARP |
vs MAG Win 22-10 |
Brodie Cutajar |
Fantastic result against a very competitive Magdalene team. Mount Carmel started the game a little shaky but quickly settled into the game and ran away with the first half, finishing the half 11-2. Brodie Cutajar made a few fantastic blocks in the first half and controlled the defense very well. The second half started well, and the general play was dominated by Mount Carmel. Unfortunately, we did not convert as many points as we would have hoped, with plenty of endzone catches dropped. This will be something we will look to improve upon next week as we face off John Therry who are the reigning senior frisbee champions. |
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Volleyball Years 10-12 OCOB |
vs JTCC Win 2-1 |
Shaun Vincent Vicente |
What an intense start to the season. MCCC came up against rivals JTCC in the first round and the matchup did not disappoint. Some early nerves caused MCCC to lose the first set by a significant margin. After settling and creating some more structure during the break, MCCC were able to rally and take the second set. The third set was extremely close, with the lead being shared throughout, but MCCC were able to get the win. Congratulations to the boys for a great win, and congratulations to Shaun Vincent Vicente for the outstanding support and involvement in key moments throughout the match. |
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Volleyball Years 10-12 Girls NIMM |
vs JTCC Win 3-0 |
Isabelle Villena Melissa Lun |
An excellent result against traditional rivals John Therry today. The girls played solidly throughout the first set demonstrating excellent teamwork and skill with Melissa Lun’s fantastic serving ensuring a comfortable win. The second set saw a resurgent John Therry who scored several early unanswered points to take the lead however, the girls maintained composure to slowly close the gap with brilliant serving by Isabelle Villena ensuring the comeback and win late in the second set. The girls dominated the third set to claim a 3-0 victory overall. Our MVP’s this week were Melissa Lun and Isabelle Villena for their consistent serving and key contributions throughout the match. Fantastic work girls! |
Round 2 - 29 October
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Sport |
Result |
MVP | Short Report |
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Softball Years 7-9 Girls PONT |
vs JTCC Loss 7-3 |
Ava Weir | The girls all played well against a more experienced team of John Therry students. Ava stepped up as our team catcher and played a great game under pressure. Lyla and Penny were solid in the pitching position. Looking forward to learning and playing again next week. Well done girls! |
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AFL Years 7-9 Boys KAWA |
vs JTCC Loss 63-26 |
Hayden Jones | The boys came up against a very strong JT side which was dominant from the start making a 40 point lead at half time. The boys responded well in the second half with a dominating second term where they made the contest competitive. Congratulations to all involved. Onto next week. |
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AFL Years 7-9 Girls ABRN |
vs JTCC Win 25-2 |
Emiy Cooper |
The girls had a convincing win over their rivals today, John Terry. The girls had the AFL diocesan championships yesterday so backing up the next day for a game is a great effort. |
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Indoor Cricket Years 7-9 Boys SULLJ |
vs BAC Win 52-42 |
Jack Breen |
Another good week for the boys getting their second win of the season. Was a close game going into the final minutes of the match, but the boys managed to take some crucial wickets. Well done boys. |
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OzTag Years 7-9 Boys KING |
vs JTCC Loss 8-4 |
Ryder Faiai |
Another challenging match against John Therry Catholic College today, with the boys unfortunately coming up short, 8 tries to 4. Congratulations to George Vatuvei on scoring twice and to Emanuel Pereira for also crossing the line. To secure a spot in the finals in a few weeks time, a stronger defensive effort will be essential. Well done to Ryder Faiai for another solid performance, earning him the MVP honours this week! |
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OzTag Years 7-9 Girls HEAS |
vs JTCC Loss 5-2 |
Shante Cashman-Priday | Another challenging match against John Terry today, the girls unfortunately lost 5-2. Congratulations to Shante Cashman-priday for a strong performance in both attack and defence. Looking forward to next week, hoping to secure our first win. |
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Ultimate Frisbee Years 10-12 MARP |
vs JTCC Win 18-9 |
Isabella Nakasenh | Excellent performance from the team in the grand final rematch. Mount Carmel dominated the game from start to finish. In windy conditions the game was going to come down to who could score against the wind. Through excellent short passing from our handlers, and some brilliant cut in runs by players like Jessica McMillan, we were the only team that was able to work against the wind and convert. The most valuable player for the team today was Isabella Naksenh who had to play long stints in the hot conditions, working up and down the field. The team should be congratulated for their performance today, it was one of the best games of MISA ultimate frisbee I have seen. Absolutely clinical. Next week we have Thomas Hassall which should be a great opportunity to develop as a team in preparation for the finals. |
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BYE - VOLLEYBALL Years 10-12 Boys OCOB Years 10-12 Girls NIMM |
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As always, students are encouraged to sign up and trial for representative teams. Below you will find registration links for both our DIO and NSWCCC events. If you require any further information please visit the Diocese of Wollongong sports here.
Representative Pathways
| MISA Website | https:/wwwwmisaonlineeorgg.au/ |
| Diocesan Sport News | Updates and news on Wollongong Diocese sport events and trials can be viewed here |
| NSW CCC/CSNSW Sport News | Higher level CCC trials and events status can be monitored here. |
| School Sport Australia Sport News | More School Sport Australia information can be found here |
Marist Student Leader’s Gathering, The Hermitage in Mittagong
On Sunday, October 20th, Ms. Nguyen accompanied four of our newly elected SRC members to the Marist Schools Student Leadership Gathering at the Hermitage in Mittagong. Over the course of three days, our representatives had the opportunity to connect with student leaders from across the region, engaging in meaningful discussions on faith and community. They enjoyed sharing ideas, meals, and a strong sense of family spirit.
A central focus of the gathering was exploring ways to foster a sense of family spirit within their own schools. The contributions from Laylah, Azura, Elijah, and Isaac offered inspiring glimpses into the promising leadership they bring for 2025. Please enjoy the students' reflections on their experience.
Laylah Tupou (Vice and Sports Captain)
The SLG provided an incredible opportunity for some of our SRC members to engage in a meaningful experience. Over three days, we shared plenty of laughs, formed new friendships, and explored the spiritual aspects of leadership. We connected with inspiring leaders from other Marist schools across NSW, working in small groups to exchange ideas and learn from one another’s experiences. A memorable highlight was the talent show on the second night, which allowed us to bond and support each other in a relaxed atmosphere. Overall, the gathering broadened our perspectives and left us with lasting friendships and memories we’ll cherish for years to come.
Azura Pereira (Spirituality Captain)
This retreat gave us the opportunity to connect with like-minded students and exchange ideas to bring back to our own school community. We were placed into small groups with students from other schools, participating in activities that highlighted leadership, teamwork, and the sharing of experiences.
On Monday night, Mr. Lo Cascio joined us for dinner. This gave us, as part of Mount Carmel’s SRC, the chance to share our ideas with him and learn about the initiatives of other schools. One of the highlights for me was the talent show, where students showcased their unique talents—whether through comedy, dancing, singing, or playing an instrument. This event allowed us to bond, encourage, and support one another. Afterwards, we enjoyed a dance party where everyone could come together and express themselves freely.
The SLG opened my eyes to the importance of leading our school with a spiritual focus and showed me how effective communication and teamwork are key to making a positive impact.
Elijah Tran (Spirituality Captain)
The retreat was a fantastic experience that immersed me in a variety of spiritual group activities, engaging tasks, and friendly competitions. The social interactions gave me fresh perspectives from other Marist schools, which helped shape how I connect with fellow students. A highlight was the talent quest on the second evening, where student leaders from different schools showcased their creativity through performances, from music to stand-up comedy. This opportunity to witness such talent and creativity made the experience even more memorable.
Isaac Ramos (Academic Captain)
Attending the Marist Schools Student Leadership Gathering was a memorable experience that gave me the chance to meet and connect with many inspiring leaders from other schools across New South Wales. A particular highlight was the formal dinner on Monday evening, where all the schools dressed up and pitched their initiatives. Our group’s idea, House Homies, focuses on a buddy system to foster a sense of community and family spirit within our school. The atmosphere that evening was uplifting, filled with enthusiasm and genuine enjoyment, which made the experience unforgettable.
This gathering has inspired me to bring that same sense of unity back to our school. Through initiatives like ‘House Homies’, I hope to bridge connections between different year groups and create a welcoming environment for everyone. Overall, it was a valuable experience that I am grateful to have been part of.
Miss Jenny Nguyen
Youth Ministry Leader
Existing Familes in our College with Instalments.
If you are currently paying by instalments there is no need to complete another Request to Pay by Instalment as your request carries over from year to year unless you wish to amend the frequency of your payments eg Weekly to Fortnightly.
Existing Families in our College without Instalments
If you would like to pay school fees by instalments in 2025 and have previously not taken up this option for payment, please complete a Request to Pay by Instalment Form which is available on the College's website or from the College's administration office. On completion of the request either email it to instalments@dow.catholic.edu.au or submit at the College office. Following receipt of the request, instalments will be generated on your school fee account during the process of invoicing 2025 school fees. Your school fee statement will provide a list of scheduled payments and their due date depending on the frequency you have chosen eg Fortnightly, Monthly, etc.
IMPORTANT: Please note that if you currently have a child or children at another school in the Diocese and you are paying by instalments at this location, you will not need to complete another Request to Pay by Instalment. The instalment request carries over from school to school with the same frequency of payment eg Weekly, fortnightly, etc.
School student travel information for parents and students
School Travel Passes
Applications are now open for 2025 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel.
Students in the Opal network applying for an Opal card (including a Term Bus Pass) for the first time will receive their School Opal card at their nominated postal address from mid-January 2025.
Students who requir a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply or update their details as soon as possible.
In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.
Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator. It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.
It is a condition of the use of a School Opal card that students must tap on and tap off every trip at an Opal Card Reader, when they travel to and from school. Please refer to the Transport for NSW website for further details. We encourage you to talk to your child and remind them to comply with the Transport NSW requirements.
