The Jubilee Prayer 

Father in heaven,

may the faith you have given us

in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother,

and the flame of charity enkindled

in our hearts by the Holy Spirit,

reawaken in us the blessed hope

for the coming of your Kingdom.

May your grace transform us

into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel.

May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos

in the sure expectation

of a new heaven and a new earth,

when, with the powers of Evil vanquished,

your glory will shine eternally.

May the grace of the Jubilee

reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope,

a yearning for the treasures of heaven.

May that same grace spread

the joy and peace of our Redeemer

throughout the earth.

To you our God, eternally blessed,

be glory and praise for ever.

Amen

As the end of the term draws to a conclusion, we offer in gratitude all that has taken place over the term, including the struggles and the many highlights that our community has experienced. The end of Term 3 is always one of mixed emotions, especially for our Year 12 cohort. With some nostalgia they look back over their past 6 years at the College and know that their official school education has concluded. With lots of excitement they look forward to the future, which I know is a future of hope instilled in them by a Catholic education. It is a future where they know they can make a real difference in the lives of those who they will meet.

I thank all of our graduating class of 2025 for their outstanding contributions across the whole breadth and life of the College, and on behalf of the Holy Spirit College community I wish them every success and happiness in the future. 

I would like to personally extend my appreciation to Ms Fennell, who has been Acting Principal in my absence this term. It was quite obvious upon my return how admirably she fulfilled the role with the support of Ms Burcher, Ms Mollica, Mr Merola and Ms Townend, all of whom also took on different roles in my absence. 

I wish all our community a restful and safe break.

Mr Christopher Agnew
Principal

The Colin Learning Centre (CLC) 

The library team consists of Teacher Librarian Mrs Cathy White, librarian support staff Mrs Adrianne Gracanin and Mrs Maria Crapis and library assistants Mrs Jennifer Rodrigues and Ms Shanna Brennan  

Year 12 HSC Holiday Exam Preparations and Opening Hours 

Students are strongly encouraged to seize opportunities offered by the College of scheduled holiday HSC exam preparations. These timetabled sessions have been shared with students. 

Additionally, the library will also be available as a space for independent HSC study on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9:00am – 3:00pm. Entry is via the Cawley Street carpark, with direct access to the Colin Learning Centre. In addition, the College will be offering a series of holiday workshops facilitated by staff. 

Holy Spirit College and Good Samaritan Catholic Primary School Partner in Student Learning

Good News Story!
In support of Good Samaritan Primary School’s Annual Plan to encourage students to become independent and strategic readers who engage meaningfully with texts, Holy Spirit College, through the Colin Learning Centre, had no hesitation in facilitating an inter-library loan. Year 6 teacher and REC Ms Natalie Shelley willingly picked up a range of class-set titles to be loaned out to year 5 and 6 students at the school. 

Here’s what Ms Shelley had to say about student responses to the experience:

“Years 5 and 6 share the books.”

“The students love having a copy of their own book”. 

“Students read the books at school and at home”

“Students have discovered a love of reading and get very competitive with each other as to what chapter they are up to and not wanting others to tell them what will happen next if they are not up to that chapter yet.”

We are excited to welcome the students who have been part of this program as they begin their secondary school journey at Holy Spirit in 2026. This initiative has already helped foster positive reading habits, and we look forward to seeing these continue as our new Year 7 students settle into college life. We also value the strong learning partnerships that have been established with Good Samaritan Catholic Primary School and look forward to building on these connections in 2026 and beyond.

Calling ALL Student Voices!

Students from Year 7 to 11 have received a short feedback/satisfaction survey to complete regarding the Colin Learning Centre via Compass. Please encourage your child to engage with the survey and complete it honestly and thoughtfully. 

Information and data obtained will help to inform future direction and planning for the CLC as we strive to better serve our College Community.  

Premiers Reading Challenge 2025

Congratulations to the following students who have qualified for the Award in 2025:

Year 7 - Taavi Cooke, Dylan Kiely, Lilth Rose-Lewis-Verco, Isabelle Olima and Luca Roberts

Year 8 - Olivia Chand, Amelia El-Bacha, Catherine Irwin, Lara McEntee, Livinia McLuskey and Motiejus Pelekis

Year 9 - Gabriella Alessi and Chloe Olima

Borrowing for Holiday Reading and Book Returns

In light of developing positive reading habits, we encouraged students to actively engage in borrowing for enjoyable holiday reading experiences. We also thank those students who have returned resources no longer required and request that a concerted effort be made to locate any that may be at home and overdue. 

Book Review

Wings of fire

Tui T. Sutherland (2015)

One will have the power of wings of fire . . . Sunny has always taken the Dragonet Prophecy very seriously. If Pyrrhia's dragons need her, Clay, Tsunami, Glory, and Starflight to end the war, she's ready to try. She even has some good ideas how to do it, if anyone would listen to her. But shattering news from Morrowseer has shaken Sunny's faith in their destiny. Is it possible for anyone to end this terrible war and choose a new SandWing queen? What if everything they've been through was for nothing? Buried secrets, deadly surprises, and an unexpected side to scavengers are all waiting for her in the shifting sands of the desert, where Sunny must decide once and for all: Is her destiny already written? Or can five dragonets change their fate and save the world . . . the way they choose? (Publisher) 

University of Wollongong - Pathways information session

29 September

At UOW College, we offer pathway programs that can guarantee* entry to the University of Wollongong. Many of our courses allow you to start in the second year of your degree, so you won’t lose time. Whether you're just exploring your options, have already applied, or received an offer—this session is for you. Staff will be available to answer your questions live. 

https://pages.uowcollege.edu.au/pathways-info-session

University of Wollongong - Creative and Performing Arts Workshops

1-2 October

The University of Wollongong (UOW) is excited to present a new series of school holiday workshops designed to ignite creativity and foster skill development among high school students. Led by UOW academics who are experts in their respective fields, these workshops offer hands-on experiences in creative writing, journalism, and visual arts.

These workshops aim to inspire students and strengthen their connection with the university community, providing a glimpse into the vibrant academic environment at UOW. Register now to attend! 

https://future-students-events.uow.edu.au/CAPA

University of Wollongong - Summer Master Classes

Applications Close 26 October

With a range of subjects to choose from, our three-week Summer Master Class program allows students completing Year 12 the opportunity to study a university subject.

Summer Master Class is for students who will be completing Year 12 in 2026.

The program will run 5 - 23 January, 2026. Students will also be required to attend an Orientation afternoon on Monday 8 December, 2025. 

https://www.uow.edu.au/engage/schools-parents/high-school/summer-master-classes/

Please see Mr Smith for more details 

University of Sydney HSC Preparation Courses (Years 10-12)

Are you nervous about tackling the HSC? Take it from us – every successful HSC begins with preparation. And now, our team of experienced educators have got you covered, with a comprehensive program of HSC preparation courses.

Led by our highly experienced team of educators, each intensive course is tailored around a critical aspect of the HSC curriculum and offers up-to-date subject knowledge and skills. These intensive holiday courses are perfect for consolidating your school studies and developing key subject knowledge that’ll give you an edge when it comes time to sit your exams. Plus, our expert tutors will teach you examination skills designed to invigorate and challenge your approach to the test material.

Classes availaible for:

• Essay Writing (Yrs 10-12)
• Study Methods (Yrs 10-12)
• HSC Business Studies
• HSC Physics
• HSC Economics
• HSC Biology
• HSC Mathematics - Standard 2

https://cce.sydney.edu.au/courses/hsc-preparation

Autosports Group Apprentice Program

Launch your career with the Autosports Group apprentice program, an opportunity to develop your skills while working with some of the world’s most exciting and well respected automotive brands.

An apprenticeship at Autosports Group provides individually tailored training and learning experiences, delivered in a realistic working environment under the guidance of qualified industry professionals.

At Autosports Group, we offer four different qualifications:

• Certificate level III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology*
• Certificate level III in Parts
• Certificate level III in Paint
• Certificate level III in Panel

And you also have the option of furthering your trade by undertaking additional qualifications in Auto Electrical, Parts Interpreter, Service Advisor, Body Repair Technology or Paint Refinishing. 

https://autosportsgroup.com.au/careers/apprentice-program/ 

Women in Construction

At Master Builders we lead the way in encouraging women to the Building and Construction industry. We are proud of the processes we have in place to support women throughout their career in the industry.

Master Builders is committed to an industry that is diverse, equitable and inclusive. In 2024, we had record numbers of female apprentices in our programs. Of all MBA NSW apprentices, 10% are female. This is more than double the industry NSW average of 2%.

Take your place in one of Australia’s largest industries and become a Master Builders Apprentice. Through our mentoring program, you are choosing a career where you are heard, seen and supported wherever you are on your journey. 

https://www.mbaapprenticeship.com.au/women-in-construction-3/ 

1300 Apprentices - Early Apprentice and Traineeship Intake

Our early offer apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities are calling.

Imagine learning while earning a full-time wage, gaining hands-on experience in a real work environment, and achieving recognised qualifications—all without the burden of student debt.

At 1300apprentice, we have some of the best host employers in their industries looking for motivated apprentices ready to start in 2026.

You will be employed through 1300apprentice and paid while you undertake a certificate through an accredited Registered Training Organisation while you learn on-the-job skills in your chosen vocation.

Get in early to secure your early offer traineeship and finish your HSC, knowing that you have your career ready and waiting for you. 

https://1300apprentice.com.au/jobs/ 

NECA's Electrical Open Day

7 October

See how Australia’s future electricians are trained

We’re inviting you and your students to experience firsthand how NECA Training & Apprenticeships develops the next generation of highly skilled electricians.

At our Open Day, students will:

• Tour a state-of-the-art trade training centre
• See live demonstrations of electrical training in action
• Meet qualified trainers and current apprentices
• Learn about career pathways in the electrical and communications industry
• Discover how NECA supports apprentices from start to finish through our Group Training Organisation model

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfNI4gSvS8UYVrXGFIeie_UjuYOsyCd6uRmf-y1S8RwwZ7fWg/viewform 

Sydney Flight School - March Intake Applications Now Open

Limited Places Left for March 2026

This comprehensive Double Diploma combines SFC's AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation(Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) and AVI50519 - Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating).

The Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) is the minimum requirement to earn a living as a pilot in Australia. You'll start your training learning the fundamentals of flight in single engine aeroplanes such as the Piper Warrior, before progressing towards larger and more complex aircraft culminating in your CPL flight test being performed in the legendary Cessna 182T Skylane. We'll arm you with all the non-technical and technical skills required to work in the industry as a professional pilot. No previous knowledge is required!

Once you have obtained your Commercial Pilot Licence, it's time to level up and excel. 

https://www.sfcaero.com.au/commercial-pilot-package 

Sydney Design School Interior Decoration Workshop

30 September - 1 October

Be inspired. Be creative. If you love interiors magazines and beautifully styled spaces, this fun two day workshop is for you. It’s perfect for any interiors enthusiast who wants to decorate their home with skill and confidence. Perhaps you’re considering a career in interiors? This beginners workshop will give you a taste of the Certificate IV in Interior Decoration course and you’ll get a feel for our School and the passion of our Educators. 

https://sydneydesignschool.com.au/workshop/ 

AIE Games and Animation Workshop Day

1 October

AIE's Games and Animation Workshop Days are a great opportunity for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to learn about the local and international game development, 3D animation and visual effects industries. Students will get the opportunity to learn about the different pathways to get into the industry, what should be in a portfolio and will be able to get creative in practical workshops using industry-standard 3D animation and game development tools.

The sessions are run by industry professionals who have worked on blockbuster games and films. Everything is provided for you to participate in the hands-on workshops and you will be using the same software that is used in the industry.

If you are thinking about a career in the games or film industry then this is a great place to get started. Places are limited so registrations are required for this free event. 

https://aie.edu.au/aie_event/games-and-animation-workshop-day/ 

AIE Film Production Workshop

3 October

Learn what it takes to plan and produce a film shoot in this intensive film production workshop. You will get hands-on with cameras, lighting, and the latest in virtual production LED screens. Industry-experienced filmmakers will guide you in taking your script through the various production stages.

In this workshop, we will fast-track the film production process by choosing one scene and taking it through the pipeline from idea to finished shots. As part of this process, participants will be leveraging virtual production sets! This is an exclusive opportunity to learn more about this revolutionary technology which is empowering filmmakers.

This workshop is suited to participants that are interested in learning more about film, working in film crews and developing their own short films. 

https://aie.edu.au/aie_event/film-production-workshop/ 

Experience a Gap Year in Canada

If you're 18 to 35 (18 to 30 in some countries), come work and travel in Canada through International Experience Canada (IEC)! It's a government program designed to help you

• gain valuable international work experience
• improve your language skills in English and French
• work in Canada and fund the trip of a lifetime

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/iec.html 

New South Wales Police Academy Open Day

27 September

Welcome to the New South Wales Police Academy Open Day which will take place on Saturday the 27th September 2025 from 10.00am to 2.00pm. 

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/new-south-wales-police-academy-open-day-tickets-1579312890369 

Mr Mark Smith
Careers Advisor
Transition and Pathways Program Coordinator
TVET and SBAT Coordinator

Tales from the Garden

As we wind down to the end of term, the garden is still showing off its vibrant hues.

The daisies and salvias are a riot of colour, as are the nasturtiums, and the silver bush convolvulus have burst into bloom.

The Peace Garden has become a bit more lived in over the last two weeks with pink buttons planted and some religious images sourced from local charity shops making things brighter. Sunflowers have been planted in both the Peace Garden and the front bed that was previously tended by the stage six lifeskills students. 

The Environmental Group have also received a kind donation of a number of succulents from Ms Bertapelle in the canteen and they have been dotted around the garden in the sunnier spots.

The insect hotel has been housed at the back of the memorial garden against the fence as there was not enough space in the community garden, and we hope that some solitary bees like the blue banded bee will take up residence.

The herbs and vegetables are still doing well and our lemon tree has gone mad and will need shaping once it has stopped flowering. 

The garden still brings joy to those who work in it and walk past and is a great reminder that September is the Season of Creation.

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow”. – Audrey Hepburn

Waste Free Wednesday

To encourage sustainability and reduce waste at the college, Waste Free Wednesday has been introduced this year and we encourage families to do their best to bring a waste free recess and lunch at least once a week.

Students can show their waste free recess and lunch to their homeroom teacher and get a merit for stewardship.

At the moment, 7 Seacliff are romping home as champions with nearly all students supporting the initiative. We thank them and Ms Doherty, their homeroom teacher, for their stewardship.

Mrs Bettina Grimston
Environmental Coordinator

10 PASS Ski Trip – Week 6

The highly anticipated 10 PASS Ski Trip was once again a highlight of Term 3, with plenty of excitement as students piled onto the bus bound for the snow. The energy was high as we set off, ready for three days of adventure on the slopes.

Day 1 greeted us with sweltering conditions on the mountain – a “chilly” 11 degrees at Blue Cow! Despite everyone being rugged up in thermals, spirits were high and students were eager to hit the snow. The first lessons saw huge progression, with students picking up the basics quickly (though a few bruised egos reminded us that skiing isn’t always as easy as it looks!).

Day 2 started early, with plenty of tired faces making their way to the Skitube. High winds by mid-morning made things a little tricky, but a quick switch over to Perisher provided more sheltered slopes and plenty of space to keep practising. While some students were still mastering how to stop, determination was strong, and confidence was clearly growing. It was also great to see our more accomplished skiers and boarders taking advantage of expert instruction to help hone their skills even further.

Day 3 was set up to be a wet one after heavy rain overnight, but to our surprise, conditions were much better than expected. A light fall of snow later in the day created the perfect backdrop for students to refine their new skills. By the end, a few had well and truly reached their skiing limits, but the bus ride home was full of stories, laughter, and rave reviews of the trip.

A massive thank you goes to the teachers who generously gave up three days with their families to make this trip possible. Your support ensured another successful and memorable PASS Ski Trip.

Mrs Sarah Costabile and Ms Jan Cleal

Interschool Debating Day

On Thursday, 11 September, our Year 7 and 8 students participated in our annual Interschool Debating Day, joining students from schools across the Illawarra Diocese, at Edmund Rice College. Across three rounds, our students engaged in lively debates, showcasing their skills in critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork.

Our teams were:
Year 7 Team 1: Christina Dellis, Alexis Kelly, Evelyn Dean, Maia Castillo
Year 7 Team 2: Ivy Powell, Madison Stone, Sadie Loemker, Abbie Stenos, Ciara Pons
Year 8 Team: Lara McEntee, Oscar Hillhouse, Zali Munoz Letham, Livinia McLuskey

Year 7 Team 1 won two of their three debates, while Year 7 Team 2 and our Year 8 Team each secured a win during the day.

We are incredibly proud of all our debaters for their effort, courage, and sportsmanship. They represented our school with excellence!

Miss Alicia Da Rocha
Public Speaking/Debating Coordinator

Design and Technology

I had the pleasure of taking four of our year 12 Design & Technology students, Kai Macpherson, Caitlin Rashleigh, Eva Gebauer, and Dakota Hornby, to showcase their work in the "Innovate for Impact" competition held at the UOW Innovation Campus.

Innovate for Impact is a collaboration between Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong and the NSW Department of Education. The event showcases the innovative student works of both primary and secondary students who have developed solutions to real-world problems. Over 70 Primary and Secondary Schools took part in this program, and 50 projects were selected for the final showcase. 

Industry experts judged the projects across a range of criteria, and I am proud to announce that Kai and Caitlin came First and Second in the secondary schools competition 

Eva and Dakota were also praised for their high standard of work. 

They will now take their projects to represent the College and CEDoW one last time at the National STEM-MAD competition in Adelaide in November.  

The four students were wonderful ambassadors, representing the College with pride. Their

Mr Jason Smith
TAS Coordinator

Year 11 Biology Excursion 

On Tuesday 23 September, Year 11 Biology students  completed mandatory fieldwork for the Year 11 Biology topic ‘Ecosystem Dynamics’. The first-hand investigations that the students were engaged in covered many of the mandatory fieldwork activities listed in the syllabus for the Module 4 topic.  

Students :

- applied real world problem solving and critical thinking

- explored validity and reliability in investigations (and science)

- utilised several sampling techniques

- learnt about specific ecosystems and niches 

The students really enjoyed collecting real world data for the National Parks and Wildlife Service utilising transect and quadrat sampling techniques.

They also enjoyed searching for, finding and identifying the numerous organisms in and around the rock pools at Sandon Point. 

Congratulations to all students on representing our College with distinction and for applying themselves to their learning.

Mr Gregory Mackney
Science Teacher

Pie Drive

Thank you to everyone who ordered from the Pie Drive! We have raised $912 to support the vital work of Catholic Mission. Thank you also to the Youth Ministry Leaders and student helpers who helped to organise and distribute the pies on the day. We are very thankful to be part of such a kind and giving community!

Mrs Hannah Fields
Youth Ministry Coordinator

Year 11 Italian

Our Year 11 Italian students have been busy planning an itinerary to Rome using an original map along with the interactive whiteboard desks as a tool.

The students are learning about the rich history of Rome as well as learning about how to write and speak about places and monuments in Italy’s capital. Some examples of the monuments and places students are learning about and have been inspired to visit are: The Colosseum, The Roman Forum, The Arc of Constantine, The Pantheon, The Fountain of Trevi, The Spanish Steps,The Vatican City, St Peter’s Basilica, The sculptures of Michelangelo and Bernini, Venezia Square, Piazza Navona, The Tiber River and The Basilica of Saint Mary Major where Pope Francis was laid to rest.

Mrs Cunzolo and Mrs Raschilla

Year 11 Italian Beginners

Year 11 Italian Beginners Class had an Italian excursion Thursday 25 September. The theme of the excursion was to interact with Italian senior citizens. 

To begin with, we went to the Sacred Heart Italian Church in Stewart St Wollongong where we met Fr Angelo who gave us a history of the church. We then walked to the Bonacina Walkway (an Italian couple who helped the Italian community) near Wollongong Library followed by a visit to ITSOWEL where students interacted with senior Italian citizens. A delicious lunch was had at the Fraternity Club. The final part of the day was visiting Italian residents at the Marco Polo Nursing Woonona.

Mrs Amabile Cunzolo
English/Language Teacher

Caritas Australia's Catholic Earthcare Annual Art Competition

Huge congratulations to Indira Lozenkovski of Year 8, who won the People's Choice Category of the Caritas Australia's Catholic Earthcare annual art competition exploring the theme of Peace with Creation.

This is a competition open to the whole of Australia, so this is an amazing accomplishment and wonderful that her talent has been recognised in this manner.

The results of the competition can be seen below. 

https://www.caritas.org.au/catholic-earthcare/school-art-competition/

Teamwork and Innovation on Display at Tournament of Minds

Early one Sunday morning in August, our school was proudly represented by two brilliant teams at the annual Tournament of Minds (ToM) competition. Students showcased their problem-solving and creative skills in a challenging and fast-paced environment.

The Molten Cheese Gang tackled the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Challenge, which required them to investigate the reasons for the disunity of Earth’s four spheres: the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Their task was to create a scientific theory for this breakdown and present a solution to restore the planet’s balance. The team’s presentation featured a remarkable 3D emblem that physically broke apart and was then reassembled in a new, more resilient configuration, symbolising a hopeful future for our world.

Meanwhile, our second team, Blank Canvas, competed in The Arts Challenge. Their brief, "We Are The World," tasked them with creating two collaborative artworks—a performance piece and a visual art collage—inspired by past and present artists. Their presentation was a powerful expression of global unity and cultural diversity, designed to convey a message of peace to the world. The team's creative talents and thoughtful message were truly inspiring.

The competition was fierce with many teams having a few years of experience in this competition under their belts. Of the 26 teams that competed in the day, Blank Canvas were awarded the Spirit of ToM award for the best performance in the Spontaneous Challenge - the spontaneous challenge is an unseen, time-limited problem that teams must solve collaboratively on the day of the competition to test their creative and critical thinking skills. 

Here is the judge’s feedback on Blank Canvas’ Spontaneous Challenge performance: 

This team struck gold with their imaginative take on the Spontaneous challenge. Despite being the youngest of the secondary teams we judged, they impressed us with their creativity, teamwork, and infectious energy. Watching them work together was a true highlight – the way ideas sparked and bounced around the team, each one building off the last, was nothing short of brilliant. The excitement reached a peak when one team member threw in a bold new twist, and the whole group lit up with excitement. The result? A hilarious and unexpected retelling of the Grinch's plot to steal Christmas, this time involving an anti-aging plot and financial ruin. It was fun, clever and spontaneous – which is what “Spont” is all about.

Both teams demonstrated exceptional teamwork, dedication, and ingenuity, spending countless hours preparing for this event. Their commitment is a testament to the school's collaborative spirit and innovative thinking. Congratulations to all the students involved!

Mrs Claire Owen
Science Teacher

Girls Cricket – Super 8s Tournament

Year 7-9 Diocesan Cricket Championships

The Year 7-9 boys team competed at Reed Park, Dapto 24 September for the Diocesan Cricket Championships. 

Four wins against St Benedict’s, St Joseph’s, St Francis and John Therry saw the boys as the only undefeated team through the pool stage. These results saw Holy Spirit College finish first in the pool and up against Edmund Rice College in the grand final. 

The boys fought hard and played a fantastic game to defeat Edmund Rice College, and the boys deservedly celebrated their outstanding win.

The team now head into the NSWCCC Berg Shield early next term full of confidence. 

Mr Brad Humbles

Flexischools App

Teacher/Parent Communications

Due to the nature of the school day, teachers are not generally available to meet with parents/caregivers without a prior appointment. In general, teachers will respond to phone calls within 24 hours of receiving them. Should a parent have any concerns/issues regarding their child, please phone the teacher or coordinator via the Administration office first and they will endeavour to get back to you as soon as possible. Parents who need to speak with a staff member directly are asked to make an appointment via the school office to find a mutually acceptable time.

Vehicle and Pedestrian Entry into the College and Student Movement

If parents need to visit the College they must park their vehicle in the Bond Street carpark and sign in immediately at Administration. 

Parents are also reminded that the preferred arrangements for drop off and pick up are outside the College grounds. With up to 1,300 students plus staff moving at these times safety is paramount. Under certain circumstances (ie wet weather) this may not be possible and parents are asked to use extreme caution and drive to the 10km speed limit.

Please also note that only staff and senior students are permitted to drive through the Kent St gates on the western campus. Please do not drive into the school carpark just to drop a student off. The narrow entrance right on the small cul-de-sac gets unnecessarily crowded and dangerous when cars are coming back out, when staff and students are attempting to drive in. Students are also walking through the entrance at this time. Perhaps dropping students off 50 metres away in Lismore St is a suitable alternative.

Students using the Gladstone St Gate

We have identified some dangerous behaviours by students (particularly by those who travel by train) that we would like to eradicate. Some students are using the busy roundabout in Bellambi Lane to cross Pioneer Road when the zebra crossing (that was put in place for Holy Spirit College students) is only 50 metres to the south. On a similar note, students need to be reminded that the traffic island in Gladstone St is a pedestrian refuge only, NOT an official zebra crossing where pedestrians have right of way. Many students have been observed stepping straight out and just expecting cars to stop.

Please support us in our endeavours to change these behaviours so that we can keep all our students safe.

College Website - Access to the Parent Portal 

The Parent Portal on the College website is a valuable resource designed to keep parents and carers informed and engaged with school life. Through the portal, you can easily access important documents such as assessment manuals, extended leave forms, and uniform and canteen information. You’ll also find school calendars and other essential updates. 

We are continually refining the portal to enhance its usefulness for our school community. If you haven’t yet set up an account, follow these simple steps: 

1. Click this link to access the portal: Parent Portal

2. Use the password: hscdow to access the signup page. 

3. Enter your details and create a password (must be at least 10 characters). 

4. Once logged in, you will remain signed in unless you log out manually. 

We encourage all parents and carers to make use of this portal to stay up to date with College news and resources. 

Bikes and E-bikes/Scooters and E-Scooters /Skateboards

Students must always wear a helmet when riding a bike to and from the College. A student will be asked to leave their bike at the College if they do not have a helmet. On entering the College grounds all students must walk their bike immediately to the bike racks. 

Students are prohibited from using the following modes of transport to travel to and from school:

• E-scooters

• Scooters

• Skateboards

• E-bikes (students 16 years can ride an e-bike as long as it meets the requirements as detailed at https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/system/files/media/documents/2024/crs_e-bikes_families.pdf)

All students riding to school are reminded that they are legally required to wear a helmet and should not have other students riding with them as passengers.

Visitors to the College

Any person entering the College grounds (including volunteers supervising exams, assisting in the Canteen) must report to Reception in the Administration Block. Please speak with our Reception staff to electronically sign in and out of the College – this is a CEO requirement.  This includes anyone going to the Uniform Shop.

Early Leave from School

Any parent/carer who needs to pick up their child during school hours is required to enter an Attendance Note via Compass with the following information:

• the mode of transport (ie if leaving by train, driving themselves, walking home)
• the name of the person picking them up if not a parent.

The Compass note start time is the time the students is required to be at Student Services. The student should then advise the classroom teacher of their early leave note and the teacher will be able to sight this in Compass and allow the student to leave class.

Parents must meet their child at the Administration Office in Bond Street, where staff will then sign the student out of the College.

As noted above, vehicle access to the College is restricted during Recess and Lunch, so where possible please try to arrange pick up outside of these times.

Should you need to collect your child unexpectedly, please call ahead to Student Services and we will arrange to have your child waiting for you.

School Opal Cards

For enquiries regarding school transport and Opal Cards please visit the following website:

New Process for Extended Absence Applications (More Than 5 School Days)

From the beginning of Term 2, families must complete an electronic Application for Extended Absence Form via the attached link. A copy of the electronic form is also available on the College Website as part of the Parent Portal. This updated process ensures that all extended absence is recorded appropriately and complies with Department of Education requirements.

This new process will allow families to complete multiple applications across all system schools through one form submission. 

Once the form has been submitted, the College will review the application and issue a Certificate of Extended Absence if approved.

Air Pods

Many students are bringing air pods to school - please ask your child to ensure the case is labelled with their name and they are paired to their device with a recognisable name. The College will not be responsible for the loss of these and we encourage students to leave valuable items at home. There have been a number of cases where air pods have gone missing. Any air pods handed in to Student Services will be returned to their owner upon proof of pairing with their device.