From the College Principal

Newsletter 14 2024

Dear Members of the St Andrews College Community,

Thank you for the way you have all applied yourselves over the past two weeks. As you will see in the Newsletter we have been very active in providing many and varied learning opportunities for the community. As Year 11 moves into their final examinations for the Preliminary Course, we wish them the very best. Congratulations to the many Year 12 students who have completed, or are completing their practical elements of their respective HSC courses. Hard work pays off.

Gospel Reflection: Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23

The 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B readings focus on God’s laws, true faith, and inner purity. These themes guide us in understanding how to live a holy life and follow God’s will. Jesus teaches that true defilement comes from within, not from external sources like unwashed hands, criticising the emphasis on human traditions over divine commands.

• Obedience to God’s Law: Moses tells the Israelites to follow God’s laws. This shows their wisdom and helps them receive blessings.
• Wisdom from God’s Commands: God’s commands are wise and set His people apart. Following them shows understanding and brings God close.
• Acting on God’s Word: James tells us to not just hear the word but act on it. True faith is shown in our actions.
• Caring for the Needy: Pure faith means helping those in need. This reflects God’s love and our commitment to His teachings.
• True Purity: Jesus teaches that true defilement comes from within. It’s our thoughts and actions, not external things, that matter.
• Warning Against Hypocrisy: Jesus criticises focusing on human traditions over God’s commands. True worship comes from a sincere heart.

The themes of the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B remind us to follow God’s laws, act on His word, and maintain inner purity. Reflecting on these teachings helps us grow in faith and love.

Year 12 Retreat:

Thank you to all the staff and students who facilitated and participated in the Year 12 Retreat. It is a significant Right of Passage at our College and an opportunity to recalibrate after a strenuous period of examinations and assessment. The fact that we can immerse ourselves in this faith opportunity with our friends, peers and teachers is something that will live with you forever.

Rotary Youth Vocational Education Awards:

The following St Andrews College students are to be congratulated on their exceptional achievements in their vocational studies.

Nywere Majak - Business Services

Aryan Rao - Construction

Talena Hourani - Entertainment

John McCaffray - Fitness

Holly McLoughlin - Hospitality (Food and Beverage)

Michael Kershaw - Information and Digital Technology

Year 11 Design & Technology Projects:

I appreciated the opportunity to view the amazing energy and space-saving designs developed by the Year 11 Design & Technology class this week. Working within strict parameters they were able to demonstrate a great deal of creativity. Thank you to Ms Valdivia and the class for the invitation and engagement.

Victor Chang Science Award Recipients 2024:

Congratulations to Youssef and Aryan for receiving the Victor Chang Award for 2024/2025. It is appropriate recognition for the effort and passion demonstrated in their studies of Science. They join a distinguished list of students who have received this award from St Andrews College.

Fidem in Christo

Dr Stephen Kennaugh
Principal