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Dear parents, friends, staff and students,
“Yes there are those now last who will be first, and those first who will be last” (Luke 13: 30). This is the last line of this week’s Gospel from St Luke. It is particularly appropriate for our current context as, over the past two days, the Year 11 students have been undergoing their Leadership Training Days. At the commencement of these days, I speak with the students about what leadership is. I remind them that all Year 12 students are leaders regardless of whether they have a formal named role or not. They will be held to account and their standard will be higher than the rest of the students. I ask them to consider what type of leader they want to be, what type of leader they want to have, and what types or leaders they want to be remembered as. These days will help them to discern their own leadership skills but will also assist them in their level of support for their peers in various leadership roles. In true leadership, we do not aim to be the one who craves fame and fortune but who strives to improve others. This may take different forms at different times. Thank you to our Year 11 students for their participation. Thank you also to Mr Berkely for running these days with his Pastoral Team and for a very effective program that has been established over many years by our competent Year 12 and Pastoral Coordinators.
At the start of this week, our Year 12 students concluded their Trial HSC exams and then attended their retreat reconnector. The timing of these two events is deliberately set to ensure that the stress of the examination period finished with a reminder that the students are valued and their lives have a greater purpose. The reconnector gives the students an opportunity to reflect on their retreat experience and the joyous nature of that time away. Following the trials, the students will begin to receive their results and will be given feedback and direction for improvement. It is important that they use these suggestions appropriately and take them as opportunities. Just as a high-level coach will make suggestions and tweak performance, our students should use their teachers to the full in order to do their best. For all students in the College, I encourage this same thinking.
On Wednesday evening, our Year 9 students and parents attended the Elective information evening to assist them with their subject choices for 2026. At this evening, I once again emphasised the idea that we should aim to learn simply for growth itself. The choosing of electives provides a wonderful opportunity to take some control of their own education. Thank you to Ms Miller and Mr Hagan as well as the many staff who attended to provide this support.
Today our staff attended the Term 3 Professional Learning Day which was focussed on student wellbeing. This involved a guest speaker who worked with the staff on their own skillsets and how they might use these in assisting students. It also gave some strong insights into skills that might be followed up with the students themselves. I am acutely aware of the constraints that pupil free days place on parents and I greatly appreciate your understanding in knowing that these improve the delivery of education for your children.
On Tuesday evening, we held the Term 3 P&F meeting at the College. Whilst I had to send my apologies (I had been sick for the two days prior), Ms Giles presented the Principal and AP reports as well as delivering a presentation on the High Impact Teaching Strategies (HITS) that are being used within the College. From all accounts, it was a very informative evening. Thank you to all parents who attended.
Ite in Veritate
Mr Steve Lo Cascio
TRANSPORT ROUTINES AT MCCC
An important part of every student’s day at school is how they get to and from our college. To ensure that all students are safely able to get on and off site each day, the following is provided:
REMINDER: NO ACCESS TO TOP TURNING CIRCLE AT PEAK TIMES
Signage at the gate entry to the college clearly instructs that parents must not access the top carpark and turning circle during peak times of morning drop off and afternoon pick up. This serves to limit traffic flow so that buses can make their drop off and pickups in a timely and safe manner.
DOWNLOAD: “NEXT THERE” APP for Transit Bus Information
State Transit has a free app called “NEXT THERE” which gives details about bus routes, stops and updates on delays, pick up times etc. Look in the app store on your phone to download.
CONCERNS: BUS FEEDBACK AND COMPLAINTS
To report concerns or register complaints about school bus transport, please contact Transport NSW directly. This helps in prioritising a solution quicker for our students' travel arrangements. Bus Feedback/Complaints can be lodged electronically via https://transportnsw.info/contact-us/feedback/bus-feedback
(select School Bus Operation under the drop down for “Your feedback is about”) or phone 131 500.
Stay safe, keep well, go gently.
Ms Samantha Giles
Assistant Principal
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Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
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Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
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 First Reading
Isaiah 66: 18-21
Ther Lord will gather all people to see his glory
Second Reading
Hewbrews 12:5-7, 11-13
The Lord disciplines those he loves.
Gospel
Luke 13:22-30
It is difficult to enter the kingdom of God
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 First Reading
Sirach 3:17-20, 28-29
Be humble, find favour with God.
Second Reading
Hewbrews 12:18-19, 22-24
We are drawn to the heavenly Jerusalem
Gospel
Luke 14:1. 7-14
Humble yourself and be exalted
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Retreat Connector
The retreat reconnector was a meaningful and enriching experience, offering the Year 12 cohort the opportunity to reunite with one another and ourselves after our Trial HSC exams. The day began with icebreaker games that fuelled our excitement and set a positive tone, encouraging laughter and bonding, helping us feel more comfortable and open, laying the foundation for reflection as the day progressed.
The retreat guided us through self-exploration by focusing on our past, present, and future selves. Reflecting on our past allowed us to appreciate the journey we have taken so far, the challenges we have overcome, and the memories we have created. Considering our present selves encouraged us to recognise our current achievements and how far we’ve come in our Year 12 journey. Looking to the future, we were prompted to think about our goals, aspirations, and the pathways we wish to pursue as we looked forward to our final HSC exams and life beyond school.
Ultimately, the retreat reconnector was a valuable pause in the busyness of Year 12, giving us time to reflect, reconnect, and realign with our peers and ourselves. It reminded us of the importance of celebrating our growth while embracing the excitement of the opportunities that lie ahead.
Year 12 Graduation Mass
On Wednesday, 20 August, we as the SRC were able to have a discussion with Fr Shane regarding the preparation and planning of our Year 12 2025 Graduation Mass. This discussion centred on ways of reflecting on our cohort, including the trials and tribulations that we have collectively confronted, and how this is reflected in colours and songs relevant to year 12 2025.
Mrs Christine Merharg
STAGE 5 2026 ELECTIVE SELECTION
All information regarding elective selection will be communicated to students via Google Classroom. The following are key dates for the Stage 5 Electives Selection process:
- 22 August 2025: Elective Form Opens
Elective Form Opens. Students will be receive an email with the link to the online form and instructions on how to lodge their preferences.
- 29 August 2025: Selections close at 4pm
If you have any questions regarding any of the above dates or events, please contact the College via an email to info@mcccdow.catholic.edu.au or a phone call to (02) 9603 3000.
Year 11 Preliminary Exams
Students will be receiving their timetable next Monday for the Year 11 Preliminary Exams. The exam block will be from Monday 15th September to Tuesday 23rd September. Students will receive the notifications for each exam linked into the timetable document. More informatio regarding expectations during this exam block will be communicated at the year assembly in Week 7.
Year 11 students are encouraged to make the most of the learning opportunities that this examination period can provide. This is an important time for them to exercise their focus on their learning goals and execute strategies to study and revise and work out what best works for them in preparing for examinations. Students are encouraged to continue to work with their teachers on revision, practise questions and to seek feedback.
The Library is open on Tuesday afternoons between 3:00-6:00pm, should students wish to utilise this space to study.
Year 12 Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews - Wednesday 10 September
Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews provide an opportunity for parents, students and teachers to meet with their class teachers to review academic progress and discuss areas for growth. This conversation provides parents and students with valuable feedback and enables them to ask questions to support their child as they near the completion of their High School Certificate. Interviews for Year 12 are being held on Wednesday September 10 between 4pm and 8pm at the College. Further to the upcoming interviews, please note that Academic Reports will be distributed at the Graduation Ceremony, and will be made available via Compass in Week 10. Bookings are now open via the Compass Parent Portal.
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TERM 3 |
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| Week 6 |
Year 12 28/08/2025 Numeracy Year 7 See notification for date Catholic Studies |
| Week 7 |
Year 11 03/09/2025 Photography, Video & Digital Imaging (1 unit) 05/09/2025 Visual Arts Year 10 05/09/2025 History Year 8 See notification for date History |
| Week 8 |
Year 11 09/09/2025 Ceramics (1 unit) 10/09/2025 English Studies 12/09/2025 VET: Construction 12/09/2025 VET: Hospitality Year 10 08/09/2025 PDHPE Year 8 See notification for date PDHPE |
Ms Chardy Miller & Mr Jay Hagan
Leader of Learning - Curriculum Pedagogy & Leader of Learning - Curriculum Administration
Protecting Our Children Online
Australia is pioneering one of the world’s first laws mandating a minimum social media age of 16. Starting in December 2025, platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and possibly YouTube must ensure that users under 16 cannot hold accounts. The onus is on platforms to verify age, risking substantial fines for non-compliance. Experts stress that the move is about safeguarding youth development—not denying online access—and encourage supportive approaches at home, in schools, and across communities.
Please read the latest information from the Generation Next team.
Bullying No Way
Thank you to all staff and students for their involvement in the Anti-Bullying No Way campaign and for wearing purple accessories on Wednesday to show support for this campagin.
A special thank you to Mr Grana for preparing a presentation for the COLA screen to remind students each day to Be Bold, Be Kind and Speak Up. Year Coordinators and Pastoral Advisors facilitated lessons and conversations during Pastoral classes last week to continue our drive for zero tolerance for bullying at Mount Carmel Catholic College.
Every student's efforts in being upstanders are helping to create a kinder, more respectful school community.
Year 11 Leadership Program
Inspiring the Leaders of Tomorrow
The Year 11 Leadership Program began with a strong and positive first day, setting the tone for an exciting year ahead. Students engaged in meaningful discussions about the many different styles of leadership and reflected on how their unique strengths can contribute to the life of our College community.
As part of the program, students explored the various leadership portfolios available within the Student Representative Council (SRC). These portfolios provide opportunities for students to actively shape the culture of Mount Carmel Catholic College by promoting service, inclusion, academic excellence, wellbeing, faith, and school spirit.
Importantly, students were reminded that leadership extends beyond titles or positions. As they prepare to enter their final year of high school, every member of Year 11 is called to be a leader. The way they represent themselves, the pride they take in their uniform, the respect they show to others, and the aspirations they set for life beyond school all contribute to the legacy they leave at Mount Carmel.
Day two of the program, although met with miserably wet weather, was filled with energy and spirit as students ventured to The Tops Conference Centre. The rain did little to dampen enthusiasm, with students embracing a range of activities designed to challenge their physical, mental, and emotional boundaries. Through teamwork, encouragement, and resilience, Year 11 demonstrated the value of supporting one another as they faced obstacles together. These shared experiences not only strengthened bonds but also highlighted the importance of unity and encouragement as the cohort prepares to move through their HSC year side by side.
This program not only equips students with practical leadership skills but also encourages them to consider the kind of leaders they want to be in their final year and beyond. With a focus on personal growth, responsibility, and vision for the future, Year 11 students are challenged to step into their roles as leaders – both within our College and in the wider community.
A special thank you to Mr Berkeley and Ms Belgre for all their work in the lead-up to and organisation of this successful program. Also, to all the staff for their involvement and leadership of the students during the two days.
Around the Grounds
It has been a very wet start to the term, with several sporting events impacted by the weather. The Diocesan Tennis Championships went ahead, and sport was able to get underway in Week 4, but unfortunately had to be cancelled in Week 5 due to ongoing conditions. Despite these challenges, we continue to move forward, with events rescheduled to their backup dates to ensure students still have these sporting opportunities.The MCCC Diocesan Athletics Team competed on Friday 21 August. A full report covering the day’s performances will be included in the next fortnight’s newsletter.
Mr Webb will be away on Long Service Leave for the remainder of the term. Miss Heath will be the Acting Sports Coordinator during this time and will be the main point of contact for all sport-related matters.
Diocesan Tennis Championships
On Wednesday 14 August, a group of MCCC students competed at the Diocesan Tennis Championships held at Wests Tennis Club, Campbelltown. The students represented the College with great enthusiasm and pride. Despite some strong performances and mixed results across the day, the team finished outside the finals matches. Congratulations to all players on their efforts:
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Saachi Bhambak Brisna Bista Akansha Chougla Brayden Croke Rosemary Curry |
Lillian Meredith Adrian Rivadeneira Cormac Ryan Shayan Shrestha Thomas Steed |
3 September; Diocesan Volleyball Championships
17 September; Boys Cricket Championships
18 September; Girls Cricket Championships
MISA
Round 3
| Sport | Result | MVP | Short Report |
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Softball 10-12 Girls HOBR |
Loss 8-3 vs STP |
Dominique Bzdega & Ariana Redding |
After a couple of wet weeks, the MISA Softball Senior Girls team finally headed off site to play their first game of the draw. They faced a strong St Patrick’s College side, putting in a solid effort despite going down 8-3. Spirits remained high, with the team already looking forward to next week’s match. Two MVP awards were given - Dominique Bzdega for stepping up as pitcher, and Ariana Redding for an incredible first swing which saw the ball clear many of the fielders. |
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Netball 7-8 Girls PONT |
Win 32-9 vs BAC |
Avah Paea |
The girls came away with another solid win today showing great spirit and enthusiasm. As a team, every single pass was challenged and this allowed us to keep possession of the ball which ended in a good result. Avah Paea, was as always, consistent and impactful in the defensive circle forcing multiple turnovers during the game. Bring on Round 4! |
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Rugby League U15's CAML |
Loss 14-12 vs MAG |
Zac Bradley & Emmanuel Pereira |
The boys were incredibly eager for their competition to get underway after a RD1 forfeit victory and a RD2 washout. The boys started very impressively against Magdalene going up 12-0 thanks to some impressive tackling busting runs by edge backrower Zac Bradley. Unfortunately the second half proved rather challenging with the boys' ill-discipline ultimately costing them a victory over their cross town rival. Despite spending most of the second half defending in their own half, Emanuel Pereira showed some outstanding defensive reads and bone crunching tackles. The boys will be upbeat and ready to go next week against John Therry in a must win game. |
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Football 7-9 Girls HEAS |
Win 3-1 vs MAG |
Samantha Steward |
Our team secured a 3-1 victory, with fantastic goals from Selena and Ruby. There were brilliant passages of attacking play, with both Selena and Lillian delivering precise through balls to Ruby on the wing, showcasing excellent skill execution. When Magdalene created a few attacking chances, Samantha Stewart produced sensational shot-stopping with multiple impressive saves. Looking forward to next week, let's keep the winning streak going! |
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Football 7-8 Boys SULJ |
Win 3-0 Vs MAG |
Deric Abraham | Great performance by the boys. THe boys bounced back after a disappointing round 1 but managed to be clinical in the final third and seal their first victory. Well done boys. |
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Football 9-10 Boys BERB |
Loss 2-0 vs MAG |
Vincent Brancati | Not a great result despite the level of effort put in by all the boys. A few absentee players impacted how the squad was set up, nonetheless they put in a good performance. The team could benefit from taking more risks in and around the box to increase the number of shots towards goal, but defensively the only two errors we had unfortunately lead to goals. Fingers crossed the wet weather holds off for more opportunities to play. |
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Indoor Cricket 10-12 Boys OCOB |
Loss 72-8 vs MAG |
Henry O'Halloran | The boys were keen to get their first win on the board but a strong Magdalene team stood in their way. Sent into bat the boys were slow to get runs and ultimately lost too many wickets. Putting on a strong bowling performance was not enough to get the win. Henry O’Halloran stood out with some excellent bowling. Let’s re-group for next week and get that elusive first win. |
Round 4
| Sport | Result | MVP | Short Report |
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Indoor Cricket 10-12 Boys OCOB |
Win 67-53 vs JTCC |
Chase Finn & Mathew Thomas | The boys were keen to get their first win today and came into today’s matchup full of energy and enthusiasm to get the job done against a strong JTCC side. Losing the toss the boys were sent into bat and posted our best total so far this season of 67 runs with some outstanding batting from Chase Finn and Mathew Thomas. Keeping JT to under 67 runs would take a mammoth effort from the MCCC boys. Some outstanding bowling from Leo Bakulic, Mathew Thomas(2 wickets) and Chase Finn(2 wickets) saw MCCC come away victorious. Well done to the boys for stepping up when it counted. Let’s keep the winning going into next week’s match. |
Representative Pathways
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.
| 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 |
Invitation
Year 7 Science Excursion – Western Sydney Zoo
On Thursday, 18 September 2025, our Year 7 students will embark on an exciting science excursion to the Western Sydney Zoo. This enriching experience will give students the opportunity to take part in a range of engaging activities and interactive workshops focused on Classification and Adaptations.
Students will also explore the zoo’s diverse animal enclosures, observing animals in their habitats and deepening their understanding of how different species are uniquely suited to their environments.
This excursion is always a highlight of the Year 7 calendar – an adventurous, valuable, and fulfilling day that inspires curiosity and strengthens students’ connection to the natural world.
Please complete the online permission note along with any medical conditions, allergies, dietary requirements, or specific concerns for your child through Compass by Friday, 5 September 2025.
Students are also required to bring a set of cabled headphones with a standard 3.5mm jack on the day to engage with zoo tours.
For any enquiries, please email Mrs Jeshmin Kumar at the email address below:
The Council of Catholic School Parents (CCSP) has announced that tickets to the 2025 CCSP Parents and Carers’ Conference on Saturday 25 October 2025 are now on sale.
This year’s conference celebrates 30 years of CCSP supporting and advocating for parents and carers of children in Catholic schools. It also marks the 20th anniversary of the formation of the Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Committee.
The 2025 conference theme is Supporting Families: Working Together in a Modern World.
Keynote speakers at the conference include:
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Dr Justin Coulson – one of Australia’s most trusted parenting experts. He is the co-host and parenting expert on Channel 9’s Parental Guidance, and the founder of happyfamilies.com.au.
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Michelle Mitchell – author and speaker, sought after for her compassionate and grounded advice for parenting tweens and teens.
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Daniel Principe – passionate youth advocate and educator. Through his work, Daniel encourages young people to recognise and resist distorted attitudes towards bodies, relationships, and sex.
The conference, which is being held at the Novotel, 350 Church Street, Parramatta, is a one-day event and is only $30 to attend. It is a wonderful opportunity to hear and engage with some of Australia’s leading experts on raising young people in our complex society.
For further information about the conference, go to the CCSP conference website, click on the accompanying flyer, or contact Mark Rix at rixm02@dow.catholic.edu.au or via mobile on 0461 544 105.
for trading information.
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.
