NAPLAN RESULTS - Focus on Literacy and Numeracy

NAPLAN outcomes are measured against nationally set proficiency standards. Preliminary data has shown encouraging performance by our students in Reading, Writing, Grammar and Punctuation, and Numeracy. Student results are categorised across four levels: Exceeding, Strong, Developing, and Needs Additional Support, with the majority of learners achieving within the Exceeding and Strong bands. Individual student reports will be distributed to parents in Term 3.

We’re encouraged by this year’s NAPLAN results, which show strong achievement in literacy and numeracy across the College. These insights not only help us identify students who may benefit from extra support or greater academic challenge, but they also inform our teaching goals for Semester 2. In 2025, we are focused on developing students’ critical thinking and writing skills, and the data will guide us in refining programs and setting meaningful goals to help all students grow in their learning.

TRIAL HSC EXAMINATIONS

The Trial HSC Examinations begin on Monday, 4 August with English Paper 1. Students are encouraged to use their holiday time wisely, ensuring that they balance their study and preparation for the trials with their work and leisure time. The College has provided all HSC Students with several Holiday Workshops to assist with examination preparation - this can be found on the HSC Wellbeing Classroom. All students have received their personalised Trial Examination timetable via email. 

CANVAS

Our CANVAS Learning Management System is a valuable learning tool that also helps parents stay actively connected to their child’s education. Through CANVAS, families can easily access learning materials, track progress, and receive teacher feedback twice each term — providing clear insight into how their child is engaging with classwork and where they’re excelling or might need extra support. With this direct line of communication, parents can better understand their child’s learning journey and partner with the College to support their growth. More courses will be taught through Canvas as we head into Semester 2. Please ensure that you’re able to access your child’s learning through your parent login to Canvas.

I wish everyone a happy and safe holiday. 

Mrs Josilin Kalifa

Assistant Principal - Teaching, Learning and Wellbeing

Thanks for a great term

Term 2 has been a very busy term. I would like to thank the staff, students and parents for all the great work in Learning, Sport and other activities. It is great to see the college pulling together to ensure the best outcomes for all students and staff.

A big thanks goes out to all the staff and students involved in Debating, Athletics and sports, Unity Day, Write a Book in a Day, sport, to name a few. The hard work from staff and the involvement from students has seen the event become a great success.

Please spend the holiday period relaxing and preparing for Term 3. I look forward to another great term of learning and involvement.

Term 3

School resumes on Tuesday, 22nd July. All students are expected to be in full College Winter uniforms. All uniform expectations should be evident, including hairstyles, jewellery and blazers.

Term 3 is an important term for all students but in particular the Year 11 and 12students  who will have the HSC trials and Preliminary examinations as well as the final Year 12 Graduation. It is an important and stressful time for the students, and we wish them all the best in these important events.

Parent and Teacher Interviews- Year 7-10

Thanks to all the families that attended the Parent and Teacher Interviews this week. I hope you all received good feedback on the learning for Semester 1 and have made goals for Semester 2. 

If you missed the conferences, please email your child's teacher to get some feedback on their learning. 

What’s in the planner?

Growth Mindset is a key idea to focus on this week. There is a solution to every problem. Having the right mindset will help you find the solution and develop resilience. As tasks become harder, we will fail at them about 30% of the time. Remember, FAIL means: First Attempt In Learning. A growth mindset will help us work hard, seek feedback and then practice the skills.

We should always aim to be around positive and optimistic people. Being around positive people helps nudge your mindset to be more growth-oriented.

A focus for the holidays is to have respectful relationships and do random acts of kindness, especially to your family.

Character strengths include Bravery. These are values that we aspire to at the College. 

All the best over the holidays, and be safe.

Mr Nicholas Thrum

Assistant Principal - Students

Vinnies Winter Sleepout

St Andrew’s Vinnies Winter Sleepout 2025
Theme: “Eyes of Compassion”

On Friday, June 20, students and staff from St Andrew’s College gathered for the 2025 Vinnies Winter Sleepout—a powerful overnight experience designed to build empathy for those experiencing homelessness. Inspired by Matthew 25:35-40, the event challenged participants to see others through "Eyes of Compassion" and respond with dignity, kindness, and justice.

Students gave up comforts for the night, slept on cardboard, and took part in a moving program that included Scripture reflections, personal testimonies, a homelessness simulation, and a meaningful clothing drive. Each donated item was carefully sorted and paired with a handwritten “Compassion Card” to offer warmth and encouragement to someone in need to be distributed during our next Vinnies Van shift..

The night also featured team-based recreational rotations, highlighting the importance of community, connection, and hope. Thanks to strong student leadership, committed staff, and thoughtful preparation, the evening ran seamlessly and left a lasting impact on all involved.

This was more than a school event—it was a call to action. One that reminds us that small acts of compassion can transform lives. Thank you to all of the teachers who gave up their time to accompany the Year 12 students during the evening; your presence makes such a difference.

On behalf of the Mission Team.

Street Retreat

Street Retreat 2025 – Walking with Compassion

On Sunday 1st June, a group of 14 students, accompanied by Miss Tan and Ms Estepa took part in the 2025 Street Retreat—an immersive day designed to live out the Gospel message of compassion in the heart of Sydney.

Beginning at Blacktown Station before sunrise, students journeyed to Hope Street in Woolloomooloo, where they served breakfast to those doing it tough and joined in a local Baptist church service. They then visited the Hope Street Educational Centre, walked through Kings Cross, and reflected on the lived experiences of people experiencing homelessness, guided by Ralph Kershler and Nick Brown.

Carrying the words of Matthew 25:35-40, students were invited to see others with the eyes of Christ and recognise the dignity in every person. It was a humbling, eye-opening day that deepened their faith, challenged assumptions, and strengthened their commitment to justice.

Below are some personal testimonies of students who experienced the day.

Vinnies Winter Sleepout: Personal Testimony

At the start of the month, I was chosen alongside 6 other students to attend the Street Retreat in the Sydney CBD. The Street Retreat was a truly memorable and life-changing experience that I will carry with me forever. I was grateful for the opportunity to take part in a day that not only allowed me to give back to the community, but also transformed the way I view homelessness and human connection, which has then led to the Vinnies Winter Sleepout.

Throughout the day, we met our guides, Ralph and Nick, volunteered at Hope Street, where we handed out food and drinks, and spoke with people experiencing homelessness. These conversations helped break down assumptions and brought me closer to their realities. We then took part in a Baptist Church Service that felt very inclusive and community-focused. It was so different from anything I’d experienced before. We students were invited to do readings, and those who came for the service even got up to share reflections that were deeply moving.

My main goal going into the retreat was to hear personal stories from those who have experienced homelessness and see what their life is like, so I could better understand the challenges they face. I did achieve this goal in different ways throughout the entire day but it stood out to me the most when we listened to Nick’s story. One part of his story that stuck with me the most was hearing about the struggles he had with his parents, had fights and arguments with them, and finally deciding to leave his home at 16 years old. Ever since then, he hasn’t seen his family in years, but he recently found out that they are in Queensland and is currently saving up money to go visit them. His honesty and strength deeply moved me. Despite facing homelessness multiple times, he never gave up. He kept building his life back up, and that resilience left a strong impact on me.

From this experience, one important idea I learnt was to always have “eyes of compassion”, hence the theme of this year’s Vinnies Winter Sleepout. It reminded us all that serving the homeless is not just about offering material items but about sharing empathy, understanding, and presence. As an empath myself, I felt a strong connection because I resonated with their emotions and human dignity. This experience made me realise how important it is to remain grateful for what I have, especially when Nick told us that when we go home, we should give our family a big hug to show our appreciation. 

All of this was inspired by the scripture passage that Miss Tan told us to read which was Matthew 25:35-40. This scripture reminds us that when we care for the most vulnerable such as those who are hungry, cold, or forgotten, we are serving Christ Himself. Through the Street Retreat, and now through the Winter Sleepout, we are answering that Gospel call to love God by loving others.

Vinnies Winter Sleepout : Personal Testimony

Focus on your experience of Street Retreat. What impacted you the most?

On the 1st of June, myself, as well as 6 other students, had the privilege of participating in the Street Retreat program where we visited BaptistCare and HopeStreet in Woolloomooloo…

What I wanted to get out of this retreat: 

• What I hoped to gain from this retreat was a deeper, more personal understanding of homelessness beyond what we see in just passing. I wanted to see the contrast between how homelessness presents itself in central Sydney compared to our local community here in Blacktown. I also haven’t had the chance to participate in the Vinnies Van program, so I saw this Street Retreat as an opportunity to serve and learn from the community directly in a way. 

• Coincidentally, in our CAFS class, we had also been learning about groups within the community, specifically the homeless, overall exploring the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness and the services available to support them, so I felt it was a good opportunity to participate and engage firsthand.

Eyes of Compassion:

• Our guides: Raph & Nick

• When we first met Nick, one of the first things he told us was to always look with eyes of compassion. He reminded us that individuals experiencing homelessness may be going through incredibly tough days, and we never know the weight they’re carrying. Sometimes, something as simple as a smile or a kind word can brighten their entire day, a small gesture that reminds them they’re seen and valued.

Throughout Street Retreat, I felt 3 main emotions:

Relieved

After helping out with the community at HopeStreet, I felt a deep sense of relief knowing that there are such compassionate people dedicating their time to support those in need. It was comforting to see places like the Ozanam Learning Centre, the youth centre, and many other facilities providing essential services. Whether big or small, every act of kindness was driven by genuine care and love.

Regretful

In the morning, we had the opportunity to assist with breakfast services like packing sandwiches, bagging dog food, and chatting with members of the community. I found myself wishing I had more courage and time to truly connect with those who showed up. I just regretted not being able to engage more in conversation with them. To make up for it, I did my best to contribute behind the scenes, whether it was volunteering first to set up chairs, offering drinks, or leading the opening prayer. 

Grateful

This experience made me forever grateful for my friends, family and life in general. It opened my eyes to the realities of homelessness and how quickly one’s life could change. Nick gave us such a moving story that it made us teary-eyed. At the end of his story, he left us with three things:

1. D.D.D = don’t do drugs
2. Treat those whom we see on the street with kindness, look at them with eyes of compassion
3. Go to our families and give them a hug, kiss them, tell them how much you love them…

Those things stayed with me. They reminded me to never take what I have for granted and to treat every person, no matter their situation with humanity and love. Nick’s story wasn’t just something I heard. It was something I felt. And it’s something I’ll carry with me for a long time.

What impacted you the most?

One of the most impactful moments of the retreat was hearing Nick’s story. It was honest, emotional, and honestly, so eye-opening. 

• Him and his parents didn't have the best relationship, which resulted in him living with his grandparents for some time.

• Nick experienced homelessness twice during his youth. The first time was at just 16 years old, when he fled an abusive home and began couch-surfing at his school friends' places just to survive. Eventually, he started an apprenticeship as a carpenter and tried to rebuild his life. But after being underpaid and suffering a serious injury, Nick found himself homeless once again, proof of just how fragile stability can be in a way.

• With the help of HopeStreet and Raph, Nick was able to access safe accommodation, support services, and begin rebuilding. He returned to work and study, and now dreams of starting his own business, one that creates opportunities for others who’ve experienced homelessness, just like him.

Listening to his journey honestly moved me to tears. His story reminded me how quickly things can change, and how none of us are immune to life’s unpredictability. What struck me most was his humility and resilience (finding his parents after saving). 

The Faith and Mission Team

Wellbeing Wednesday Trivia Wrap-Up

Over the past four weeks, students across Years 7–12 have taken part in our Wellbeing Wednesday Trivia initiative — a fun, engaging activity designed to spark meaningful conversation and connection within Learning Groups. Each week focused on a different wellbeing theme: Kindness, Mental & Physical Health, Gratitude, and Belonging & Community.

In Weeks 3 and 4, students reflected on the power of gratitude in building happiness and strengthening relationships, as well as the importance of feeling a sense of belonging — both in their friendships and the broader school community. Learning Groups worked collaboratively to answer trivia questions, share stories, and take part in bonus activities like group photos, staff baby photo guessing, and discovering hidden staff talents.

This initiative wasn’t just about points — it was about fostering a culture where students feel seen, supported, and connected. A huge thank you to our staff for guiding these moments with care and enthusiasm, and to our students for embracing each theme with open hearts and minds.

Unity Day – A Celebration of Culture and Community

Last Friday, we celebrated one of the most uplifting events of the school calendar — Unity Day. Students across all year levels came together to share and showcase their cultural backgrounds through food, fashion, music, and performance.

It was truly inspiring to see the collaboration between year groups, with students working together for weeks to prepare dances, songs, and presentations that reflected their heritage and pride. From vibrant traditional costumes to heartfelt storytelling, Unity Day was a powerful reminder of the strength that lies in our diversity and the beauty of a community that celebrates every individual.

Thank you to everyone who performed, participated, and supported this event. You made it a day to remember!

Looking Ahead: Wellbeing Over the Holiday Break

As we head into the Term 2 holiday break, we encourage all students and families to take time to rest, recharge, and look after their wellbeing. Here are some simple, positive ways to support wellbeing over the holidays:

5 Ways to Enhance Wellbeing Over the Break:

1. Reconnect – Spend quality time with family and friends without screens.
   
   
2. Be Active – Go for walks, ride a bike, swim, or try a new physical activity.
   
   
3. Get Creative – Draw, cook, write, play music, or explore a hobby you enjoy.
   
   
4. Reflect – Keep a journal, practice gratitude, or simply pause and breathe.
   
   
5. Sleep Well – Try to keep a regular sleep routine to feel rested and balanced.
   
   

The holidays are a perfect time to reset. Whether it’s enjoying quiet moments or doing something fun with loved ones, prioritising wellbeing now will set students up for a confident and positive start to Term 3.

We wish all students and families a safe, relaxing, and joyful holiday break.

Mrs Emily Parker

Acting Leader of Wellbeing & Learning

As we wrap up Term 2, I want to take a moment to say how pleased I am with the way this term has unfolded. I continue to be genuinely impressed with how so many of you live each day — showing kindness, resilience, and a willingness to step up when it matters. More importantly, I am happy with the people you are becoming. Watching you grow not just as students, but as young people of character, has been a privilege.

Unity Day

It was fantastic to see so many of you get involved, whether by participating in performances or supporting your fellow Year 9 students from the audience. Your behaviour on the day was excellent, and the way you rallied around each other made it clear what a strong and supportive year group you are becoming.

Reflection Day

Your participation, attitude, and engagement were outstanding from start to finish. In fact, the staff running the day personally told me you were the best group of students they have ever worked with — a huge compliment and one you should all be proud of.

Looking Ahead to Term 3

Next term will be all about leadership. I’ll be paying close attention to how you treat your teachers, your friends, and your peers. Leadership isn’t just about titles or positions — it’s about setting the right example through your actions, your attitude, and the way you carry yourself. I challenge you to think about how you are demonstrating leadership qualities, both in the classroom and out in the community. Are you showing integrity, responsibility, and respect? Are you showcasing everything we expect a student of St Andrews to be?

Final Message

As we head into the break, I want to leave you with this thought: everyone has something they need to work on. It might be your academic focus, your character, your personality, or a particular weakness you want to improve. No one is perfect — but those who strive to be better every day are the ones who truly grow. Take time to reflect on what you want to improve and come back next term ready to build on everything you’ve achieved so far.

Wishing you all a safe and restful break — see you in Term 3!

Mr Kharl Carlos
Leader of Wellbeing - Year 9

As we come to the end of a full and fast-paced Term 2, I want to take a moment to thank you for your ongoing support and share some of the highlights and reflections from the past few weeks.

Unity Day – A Celebration of Culture and Community

One of the standout moments this term was College Unity Day. It was truly heartwarming to see so many Year 8 students proudly participating—whether through traditional dress, music, performance, or simply by being present and respectful of others’ cultures.

The day was a wonderful celebration of our community's rich diversity and the values we share: respect, inclusion, and unity. These are more than just words; they are the foundation of the environment we aim to build here every day.

Preparing for the Break – Rest, Recharge & Refocus

The school holidays are a valuable time for students to step back from the routine of school and take care of their overall wellbeing. After such a busy term, here are a few ways your child can make the most of the break:

• Recharge – Encourage time to rest, sleep well, and enjoy hobbies or time outdoors. Recharging is essential for focus and motivation heading into Term 3.
• Catch Up – If any tasks were missed during the term, the break is a great time to get organised. Reviewing planner entries, completing unfinished work, or tidying up digital folders can help students feel ready for a fresh start.
• Set Intentions – It can be powerful to set a simple intention for Term 3. What is one thing your child wants to improve, try, or commit to? Writing it down and discussing it with you can give it meaning and momentum.
• Stay Connected – Holidays are also an important time for students to connect with family, friends, and their faith. Building these connections strengthens resilience and brings joy.

Returning to Term 3 – Bring the Energy!

We’re encouraging all Year 8 students to return to Term 3 with renewed energy, enthusiasm, and a commitment to giving their best. The second half of the year is a crucial time for building momentum academically, socially, and personally.

Term 3 is often where we see the most growth, but it requires students to be present, prepared, and engaged. We’ll continue to support them through structured wellbeing programs, learning goals, and by reinforcing our shared expectations for respectful and focused behaviour.

Let’s all work together to make Term 3 a time of positive growth and strong progress.

Mr Jarryd Leaves

Leader of Wellbeing – Year 8

Minasan, ohayou gozaimasu.

My name is Matsufuji Sensei, and I’m a Japanese teacher. I was born and raised in Japan, but my background is Chinese Vietnamese.

My father is Chinese Vietnamese and my mother is Vietnamese. They are both originally from Vietnam.

My father was adopted into a Japanese family when he was a teenager, and my mother moved to Japan in her 20s.

My family first moved to Australia when I was a little kid. I went to kindergarten and primary school in Sydney for a year, then we moved back to Japan.

In 2011, a big earthquake hit Japan and it affected many people, including my family. My mother became worried about our safety and future, so we decided to move back to Australia when I was in high school.

We already had relatives here, and since we had lived in Australia before, it felt familiar.

Starting again here was challenging because I had forgotten most of my English. Learning English again was my first big step, but it took time. I was often misunderstood or ignored because I couldn’t speak well, and I was also shy, so it was hard to make friends at first.

I started high school only one year before the HSC, so I had to study very hard. Fortunately, my school had a supportive and diverse community with students from many cultural backgrounds, including international students. With help from my teachers and friends, I gained confidence and improved my English.

I stay connected to my culture by celebrating important Vietnamese festivals like the Lunar New Year and Moon Festival with my family. We also enjoy traditional Vietnamese food at home, and I speak Vietnamese with my parents and relatives.

At the same time, I also stay connected to Japan through language, culture, and enjoying Japanese fashion and modern culture like anime, manga and music.

I wish others understood that my culture is a mix of Vietnamese and Japanese, and both are very important to me. Sometimes people don’t know that families can have many different backgrounds, and that it’s special to keep both cultures alive. I also want people to know that traditions, food, and language are important ways we stay connected to our roots.

Growing up, I didn’t always feel accepted in Japan because of how I look or my family background, even though I was born in Japan and speak Japanese fluently, some people said I was Vietnamese. But I also didn’t feel fully accepted as Vietnamese because I don’t look like Vietnamese and don’t speak Vietnamese perfectly.

I felt very Japanese inside, but many people told me I wasn’t. But here in Australia, people accept who I say I am and respect my opinion. I like my Vietnamese side and don’t hide it, but I feel more confident and connected as Japanese. I have a Japanese passport and feel I belong as Japanese. That has helped me believe in myself more and feel proud of who I am.

I’m most proud of my mixed heritage and how it makes me unique. Growing up in a rich cultural environment helped me become open-minded and respectful toward other cultures. It also sparked my passion for learning languages. Being both Japanese and Vietnamese allows me to see the world from different perspectives and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. My Japanese made it easier to learn languages like Korean and Spanish, while my Vietnamese helped me understand Chinese. I feel proud to keep both cultures alive by celebrating traditions, speaking different languages, and sharing my story with others.

I want to say that respect and acceptance are very important. Everyone comes from different backgrounds, and that makes our community stronger. At our school, we also host our sister school from Japan, which helps us learn about each other’s cultures. It’s important to listen, be kind, and include everyone so we all feel like we belong. Unity happens when we accept people for who they are and celebrate our differences together.  Arigatou gozaimasu.

Miss Miho Matsufuji
Japanese Teacher

Year 7 - Mulga

Our Year 7 artists have been immersing themselves in the vibrant world of Joel Moore, widely recognised as Mulga. Students have enthusiastically embraced his bright, colourful, and summery style, incorporating it into their own artistic creations, including postcards, eye-catching posters, stylish tote bags and fun Slurpee cups. It's been an exciting journey of creativity and expression!

As we are approaching the end of Semester 2, it is time to say goodbye to our Semester 1 classes. Thank you to our Year 7 Semester 1 classes for their enthusiasm and efforts throughout both terms and wish the very best for their transition to their music course! We look forward to meeting our Semester 2 classes!

Year 8 - Fauvism Movement

Our Year 8 students have been immersed in the fascinating Fauvism art movement, renowned for its vibrant colors and expressive interpretations. Recently, students focused on capturing the beauty of Australian scenery through their unique artistic lenses with some, provided with the option of creating a self portrait. Students had the exciting opportunity to choose from a variety of mediums, including acrylic paint, chalk pastel, oil pastel, and watercolor paint, to bring their creative visions to life. We are thrilled to see their enthusiasm and artistic growth as they explore this dynamic style!

As we are at the end of our Semester 1 course for Visual Arts, we would like to thank our Semester 1 Year 8 Visual Arts classes for their efforts and wish them the very best for their transition to their music course. We look forward to meeting our Semester 2 classes!

Year 9 - Popular Culture In-Progress Collection of Work 

Our Year 9 Elective Visual Arts students have been actively engaged in creating their Pop Art Collection of Work as part of their Assessment Task. Throughout the term, students have explored the works of notable pop artists, including Andy Warhol, Shoichi Aoki, and Richard Hamilton, many of whom have served as inspiration for their own artmaking endeavors.

In 9VISA1, students have chosen a diverse range of popular culture themes, including music artists like Tyler the Creator, Japanese fashion, anime and cartoons, as well as Sanrio characters - all in the style of pop art. We are excited to witness the ongoing development of their projects and eagerly anticipate the final product in Week 4.

Year 10 - Fine Diner Ceramic Set Construction

Our Year 10 Elective Visual Arts students have been diligently constructing their ceramic fine diner sets. Each student has been tasked with creating an eating vessel, a drinking vessel, and an optional condiment holder, all inspired by a culture of their choice. We are truly impressed by their progress, attention to detail and the creativity they have displayed in their designs.

Notable creations include a Japanese bento box, a Chinese takeaway fold-out box, a banana leaf inspired by Filipino culture, and a drinking vessel designed to resemble a coconut shell. After the bisque firing, students will have the opportunity to apply underglaze and glaze to their fine dining sets. 

Art Club

As we conclude Term 2, 2025, I would like to extend my gratitude to all the students who participated in Art Club this term. One of the standout moments was the students' experimentation with printmaking. Their curiosity and dedication to exploring this medium through trial and error has shown great promise for future inclusion in our future Stage 5 programs.

I am also excited to welcome Mrs Sanders, who will be facilitating Art Club for Term 3. We look forward to an engaging and inspiring term ahead! 

Have a safe and restful break St. Andrews community!

Miss Leezah Rivera

Visual Arts & HSIE Teacher

Since Term 4 2024, the SAC Media Team has been working tirelessly behind the scenes to document and showcase some of the College’s most memorable events. From the vibrant energy of CAN 2024, Jazz Night, and Unity Day, to the athletic achievements at the Athletics Carnival and the creativity on display during the Senior Music Major Works Night, our Media Team has been there to capture every moment.

With each event, the team continues to grow in size, skill and confidence. Their ability to reflect the energy, pride and joy of our school community through photo and video has improved dramatically, and it’s been incredible to watch their development.

What makes their contribution even more special is the dedication they’ve shown. Many students have given up their time after long school days to attend events, work late into the evening and deliver high-quality content for our College community to enjoy. Their professionalism, teamwork and genuine care for the work they produce is evident in everything they do. It’s also been inspiring to see our senior members step into leadership roles, mentoring newer students and passing on their knowledge and experience.

As the year continues, I’m excited to see how the team will take on upcoming school events and continue to raise the bar. If you have been inspired by their work, keep an eye on your Wellbeing Google Classrooms later this year, as we’ll soon be recruiting new members to join this passionate and creative team.

Stay tuned, and thank you to the SAC Media Team for all your hard work!

Miss Shanai Mifsud

TAS & VET Information and Digital Technology Teacher

Next term, St Andrews College will host Japanese students from our sister school, Isahaya Commercial High School.

We are looking for two host families:

• One for a short-term stay from 18 August to 29 August 2025 (11 nights).
• Another for a long-term stay from 26 July to 14 September 2025 (7 weeks).

If you would like to discuss or negotiate the hosting period for a Japanese student, please feel free to contact us.

You can share your lifestyle and home whilst experiencing another culture.

• Students attend school on weekdays and spend their weekends enjoying family life with you.

• Japanese language skills are not necessary.

• Students just fit in with your family routines.

• The students need their own beds but can share a room.

• Families are paid $55 per night.

If you can assist in hosting a student or would like to know further information, please contact Ms Suzuki at msuzuki@parra.catholic.edu.au

Alternatively, you can contact the company, VS Oceania, organising the host families for this group at ushinohama@vsoceania.com

Thank you for your support.

Regards, 

Mariko Suzuki

Leader of Learning - Languages

St Andrews College, Marayong

Ph: 9626 4000

Email: msuzuki@parra.catholic.edu.au

On the 20th of June, students had the opportunity for Physical and Mental Wellbeing Week, which allowed students to unwind and focus on their physical and mental health with a range of student leader-led activities. This lesson was designed to promote connection and stress relief just before students commence their intensive study period before the HSC. 

The day featured an array of activities. 

• From a ‘Hobby Station’ that had books, colouring, chess, board games and some wellness exercises –to physical sports like basketball and volleyball, a dodgeball tournament, there was something for everyone within the lesson. 
• In addition to these activities there were even some childhood classics like ‘What’s the Time Mr Wolf’ or ‘Bullrush’, and team building activities like making the tallest tower out of marshmallows and spaghetti sticks, trying to use their communication skills to get out of a human knot, or even flying a paper plane the furthest. 

The day wasn’t just about having fun; it was also a chance for students to build rapport with their peers, develop teamwork skills, and enjoy the outdoors in the sunshine. It provided a relaxed and supportive environment, fostering mental wellbeing and camaraderie at a crucial time for our Year 12 students, with their fellow peers. 

As they prepare to immerse themselves in their HSC studies entering the holidays, this offers students a valuable reminder to balance hard work with moments of joy and connection. We hope Year 12 are feeling refreshed and ready to tackle their upcoming exams with renewed energy and confidence next term. 

Below are some lasting words from Tewodros Worku and Aditya Rawal in their leader’s address from this assembly to inspire students about the importance of the impact they make on the school and the legacy they leave behind. 

Miss Christina Rujicica 

Acting Leader of Learning Wellbeing - Year 12

Leaders' Address

Good Morning. Today, we wanted to reflect on ‘legacy’. When we hear the word ‘legacy’, we usually think of people who have already finished something. Whether they may have graduated. Retired, or just moved on. But that’s the misunderstanding. Legacy isn’t what you leave behind after you’re gone. It’s what you build while you’re still here, what we’re trying to build here at this college. Every single one of us, whether you’re a student or a teacher, plays a part in shaping this school. In your attitude. In your actions. In how you treat people. In what you tolerate and what you stand for. It's not about being the loudest or the most vibrant person. It's about what people remember you for. Who will you be remembered as? Will you be the person who supports others? Who made the room brighter when you walked in? Or did you just sit back and let things happen around you? You don’t need a badge to set a standard. You don’t need a stage to have an influence. It’s the way you speak. The way you carry yourself. That will be your legacy, right here, right now. It’s not about being remembered forever. It’s about being remembered for the right things. So think about it. Who will you be?

To Year 12, as you might have seen, the graduation countdown has started and hopefully for most of you, it's starting to feel real. We have had our last athletics and swimming carnival, and next week will be our last full school event. This experience is surreal, and we hope you guys are making the most of it. We encourage everyone to use the limited time we have left on this campus to experience new things, talk to new people and do things that are unfamiliar to you, as this is your last chance to do so and the memories that will have an impact. We wanted to share a quote with everyone that might resonate with you for the upcoming exam season ‘The only thing you can control is you'. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of dedication, perseverance and accountability. We know it's easy to place the blame on someone when things don't go to plan and to point fingers at others, whether that be your distractions or other external factors. But at the end of the day, you are at the centre of decisions. The centre of your learning. You are the one who puts in the work. So put in that work and prioritise yourself. This all starts with accountability,  own your choices and commit to the process. You are in control of your effort, mindset and your growth, not anyone else's. 

Tewodros Worku and Aditya Rawal

In Term 2, Weeks 8-10, our Year 8 students embarked on an exciting cultural journey into Japan's rich traditions with Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival. Held annually on the 7th day of the 7th month, Tanabata celebrates a beautiful legend where two stars, Altair and Vega, reunite across the Milky Way. This festival reflects themes of love, hope, and dreams, which resonated deeply with our students.

During this special cultural exploration, our Year 8 Japanese course students learned about the customs of Tanabata. They enthusiastically wrote their wishes on colourful strips of paper called Tanzaku, expressing their hopes and dreams for themselves and others. These Tanzaku were then delicately hung on bamboo branches, transforming our Gould area into a picturesque bamboo forest. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. McLoughlin, our dedicated school maintenance man, whose efforts helped create this enchanting setting for our students.

Throughout the activity, our students immersed themselves in Japanese traditions, learning not only the art of Tanzaku decoration but also gaining insights into the significance of Tanabata within Japanese culture. They shared stories, exchanged experiences, and embraced the spirit of unity and goodwill that Tanabata embodies.

As we wrap up this year's celebrations, we reflect on the joy and cultural enrichment this experience has brought to our school community. We look forward to continuing this tradition and further exploring global cultures with our students in the coming years.

We wish all our students a happy and healthy academic journey ahead, filled with growth, learning, and the realisation of their heartfelt wishes. Here's to another wonderful Tanabata festival next year!

Miss Miho Matsufuji

Japanese Teacher

Earlier this term, our Year 10 Multimedia class embarked on an exciting journey into the world of UX (User Experience) and UI (User Interface) design. Using Figma, students began learning how to create interactive app prototypes, focusing on designing engaging and user-friendly interfaces. This foundational knowledge has now culminated in their final projects, where they applied their skills to develop innovative travel app prototypes for a leading global tourism enterprise, Voyage Vista.

The task was to design a travel app prototype for one of the following regions (or another not listed if approved):

• United Kingdom
• Japan
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Iceland
• South Africa
• India
• The Philippines

Each app needed to reflect the unique characteristics of its destination and integrate Voyage Vista branding seamlessly. Students developed prototypes featuring essential destination information, media assets, and interactive features. They also submitted detailed wireframes illustrating their planning process.

The students' creativity and technical skills resulted in impressive and functional travel apps, demonstrating their understanding of design principles. We are proud of their achievements and invite the school community to explore some of the class’s interactive prototypes via the links below.

• Kieran Callaghan - Iceland
• Panash Gupte - Japan
• Tapan Pandya - Japan
• Aryan Sharma - Japan
• Bhavrit Sidhu - Indonesia

We have also displayed some of their incredible work in our technology room in B6 for students and staff to view! Congratulations to our Year 10 Multimedia students on their outstanding work!

Miss Shanai Mifsud

TAS & VET Information and Digital Technology Teacher

On Thursday, the 5th of June, a group of St Andrews students participated in the Blacktown Big Ideas Challenge. This event brought together students from across the Blacktown area for a day full of interactive learning, collaboration, and problem-solving activities.

Throughout the day, students engaged in a range of activities that required them to draw on their knowledge of Engineering and Design and Technology, with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. One of the key challenges asked students to consider: “As an entrepreneur, design a smart city concept that reduces urban heat and creates a more sustainable future.”

Students formed teams, developed ideas in response to this problem, and presented their concepts to a panel of judges. This event is the first time St Andrews has participated in this competition, and they performed strongly. 

We’re pleased to share that one of our teams was awarded second place on the day.

Congratulations to Banee Atwal, Meera Chand, Precious Danica, and Jouliana Salama on their achievement, and well done to all students who took part.

Miss Alexandra Serbin

On Wednesday, the 25th of July students studying Child Studies and Exploring Early Childhood were given an opportunity to attend the Early Childhood Education Careers Incursion which was held in the Junior Campus Hall.

This event was originally planned as an excursion in the Blacktown Council Local Government Area at an Early Childhood Education venue. When a venue was proving a challenge, our College Leadership Team graciously offered our Junior Campus Hall.

The event has been touring Local Government Areas, promoting the wide range of careers in the Early Childhood Education sector.  During the incursio,n students participated in play activities which are utilised in Early Childhood Education Centres to engage young children in their skill development and growth, including healthy eating habits. Karen Atkinson, CEO of Childcare Resources Australia, facilitated the activities and shared her varied and successful career journey.

Following the play activities, students heard from an employer panel discussing the wide variety of roles found in the Early Childhood Education sector. Students then participated in a round table networking session. 

The students who participated in the incursion are to be congratulated for their engagement in the incursion and for welcoming students from  Nagle, St Agnes, St Luke’s and CathWest to the event.

I also wish to thank Stephanie Campanale and Georgina Vaga from the CSPD and our Regional Industry Education Partnerships representatives, Jessica Blain and Jared Wilson, for their support in the organisation of the event.

Ms Therese May

College Future Pathways Leader

College Leadership Team

Leaders of Learning - Wellbeing

College Leaders of Learning - KLA

College Leaders of Learning and Other Leaders