This term has concluded with a number of celebrations and thanksgiving for the gifts the year has brought us. We have congratulated those who had achieved success in various areas of school life and we shared a meaningful Eucharist at St Andrews Day. It has been a fitting celebration of the year.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank our staff for the professional manner in which they have assisted the learning at St Andrews and the continual assistance demonstrated to me in my role as Assistant Principal. Congratulations to the many students at our college who have shown the required effort needed to succeed, especially those who have not received awards but who have achieved their personal best in 2023.

Finally, thank you to the many parents/guardians who supported the numerous Information Evenings, Parent-Teacher meetings and a range of other events that were conducted throughout this year. Your support and feedback is always greatly appreciated and viewed as an essential component to assist us as educators ensuring that what we do is relevant to the community that we serve.

As the year concludes here is a simple prayer to help us focus on this important time of preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas:

I need your help Lord

I want to slow my world down.

This year, more than ever, I need Advent,

These weeks of reflection and longing for hope in the darkness.

This year, help me to have that longing.

Help me to feel it in my heart

And be aware of the hunger and thirst in my own soul.

Be with me. Guide me in these weeks

To what you want to show me this Advent

College Timetable 2024: A Final Reminder

Students will have access to their 2024 Timetable on Monday 22 January via Compass.

Please direct any questions regarding classes, courses etc to pfinnerty@parra.catholic.edu.au

Thank you to the 2024 Timetable Committee for all of their planning, communications and consultation.

Thank you for your continued support

God Bless, 

Patrick Finnerty

HSC RESULTS 2023

Our College continues to celebrate its academic successes, ending 2023 on a high note. These results demonstrate the hard work and determination of the Year 12 students, who have worked consistently throughout the HSC Year to achieve such outstanding results. Our HSC cohort for 2023 has achieved significant achievements. 

Overall the College achieved 25 courses on or above state average, 55 Band 6’s and 5 E4’s in Extension courses. We also had significant success in our Band 5 range where 180 students achieved over 80% in one or more of their courses. Over 90% of our Extension Students achieved an E4 or E3 in their courses.

I’d like to also congratulate our Year 11 Accelerated students who have achieved outstanding results in their HSC Mathematics and Science courses with two students achieving high Band 6 results. 

Well done Year 12, and we thank the many teachers across Year 7-12 for their dedication to the education of all students throughout their Secondary education. 

Awards Assembly 7-11

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the recipients of this week's awards. The ceremony was a delightful celebration, acknowledging the hard work and commitment of our Year 7-11 students.

Throughout this year, we have consistently stressed the significance of "everything counts." The End of Year Awards symbolise our school-wide dedication to this principle of learning. These awardees not only excelled in formal assessments but also consistently displayed their best efforts in their classwork and homework each and every day. We enter into 2024 reaffirming the belief that each day of learning holds significant value. I urge everyone to approach 2024 with the commitment to show up and give their best each day. Whether it's an assessment task or classwork, every effort contributes to your final grade.

I'd like to express my gratitude to all the parents and guardians of our students. I wish every family and our students a Christmas and New Year filled with joy and blessings.

Ms Josilin Kalifa

Assistant Principal 

Teaching, Learning and Wellbeing

Principal’s Awards

The final Assembly on the Senior Campus in Week 8, was the last opportunity to present Principal’s Awards to students this year. Students who have received their Principals Award after this time will receive it next year. Congratulations to the following students who have received Principal’s Awards:

Year 7 

Year 8

Congratulations to the following student who has received their second Principal’s Award:

Year 9

Year 10

Congratulations to the following student who has received their second Principal’s Award:

Year 12

Congratulations to the following students who has received their second Principal’s Award:

Congratulations to the following student who has received their third Principal’s Award:

House Cup Celebration Day

Monday December 11 was the House Cup Celebration Day. That meant that all students in the winning House - Gould - went to Luna Park. Students travelled to Luna Park by train and were then able to enjoy Luna Park with their friends in their Learning Group & their House. And by all accounts, the students had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Ms Harwood, Mr Houseman & the Gould Learning Advisors for accompanying their students and sharing their success with them (Mrs Kramer, Ms Rivera, Mr Lewandowski, Mrs Shnoudi, Mr Weaver, Mr Dewar, Mrs Harris, Ms Le, Mr McBride and Mr Alata). Thank you also to Mrs Welch for organising zooper doopers for the students in Bennelong, Chang & Frances back at school - it’s important to celebrate your contribution to the House Cup - even if your House didn’t win this year. Congratulations to all!

It has been a wonderful 2023, filled with much success & learning. I wish all students a relaxing holiday, and I look forward to working with you in 2024.

Mrs Sue Cooper

Leader of Wellbeing and Learning

scooper@parra.catholic.edu.au

Hello Year 7, 

Congratulations on completing your first year of high school at St Andrews College. It has been a year filled with growth, discovery, and countless achievements, marking the beginning of an exciting journey here at our College.

Throughout the year, you have exhibited exceptional dedication and enthusiasm in embracing the challenges and opportunities high school presents. From navigating new subjects and forming lasting friendships to participating in various extracurricular activities, each of you have played an integral role in making this year memorable and I am glad to have been a part of it. 

Beyond the academics, you have fostered a sense of community. Friendships have flourished, creating a supportive environment where students feel a sense of belonging. I encourage each student to cherish these connections and continue to cultivate a positive and inclusive atmosphere within our school community.

As we celebrate your achievements, we also look forward to the promising future that awaits each student. The skills, knowledge, and values acquired this year will serve as a solid platform for their continued success in the years to come. I have every confidence that you will go on to achieve great things and make positive contributions to both our school and the wider community.

Wellbeing Day

On the 8th of December, Year 7 students participated in a Wellbeing Day to appreciate and understand the aspects of SPIRE (Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Relational, Emotional). This framework is essential in growing as a holistic person and essential to one’s wellbeing. 

We started the day with a liturgy lead by Fr Kevin, to celebrate the start of Advent and to also remind ourselves of the importance of God in our lives. Fr Kevin gave the year 7’s some words of thought:

• Love and relationship 
• Know that God has great plans for you 
• Celebrate and nurture our talents and gifts 
• Continue to do Acts of Service - Fr Kevin challenged us to think about how am I using my talents and gifts for others 
• Faith is a life long journey 
• How we help one another is that we pray for each other 
• Our relationship is not just with god but with one another  

After the liturgy, the students split into their house groups and rotated through a few activities. 

Physical - Students were given time to be physically active outside. Although the day was quite hot, the students were still enthusiastic about being able to have fun with their friends. They were also smart enough to know when to stop and rest before continuing again. 

Intellectual - In this session, students were given the opportunity to develop their understanding of the benefits of positive self talk to one's wellbeing. Being able to practice positive self talk and give affirmations to those around them can allow them to live a happy and positive lifestyle. In this session, students constructed a Positive Self-talk and affirmation chatter box that they can play with others and give affirming words.

Relational - In this session, students were once again asked to understand and appreciate the benefits and value of gratitude and being grateful for what one has and being grateful to those around them. In this session, students in their house were given a piece of paper which they were to write something they are grateful for. Each piece of paper that each house was given, was linked together to create a chain. The chain is to symbolise that together as a year group, the more grateful we are with each other, the stronger we are as people and a year group. 

Emotional - In this sessions, students were asked to get in touch with their thoughts and feelings and were required to write a letter to their year 12 self. This letter is important so the students can really think about what they want to be and what they want to achieve by year 12. We hope that everyone took the time to write down their goals and dreams for the future.

Overall, this day went very well and students enjoyed their time with each other. As the Leader of Wellbeing, I express my gratitude to all staff and students involved as the success of the day is only as successful for all your time and effort. 

Final words

It has been a great year and I am glad to be your Leader of Wellbeing. I hope that we can continue to grow together and ensure that your time at St Andrews is a great one. I am so very proud of all of you and cannot wait for next year!

Kharl Carlos 

Leader of Wellbeing Year 7 

Dear Year 8 Parents and Students,

It is with mixed emotions that I bid farewell to the incredible Year 8 cohort that I have had the privilege of accompanying on their academic journey for the past two years. As I transition to the new role of Leader of Wellbeing - Year 7, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable achievements and growth that I have witnessed within this wonderful group of students.

Over the past two years, I have had the pleasure of watching your children evolve into independent, curious, and resilient individuals. The Year 8 journey has been one filled with challenges and triumphs. Each student has brought their unique strengths to our community.

As I embark on a new chapter as the Leader of Wellbeing - Year 7, I carry with me the memories of the laughter, the challenges conquered, and the bonds forged with the Year 8 cohort. Although I will miss being a part of their daily lives, I am confident that the foundation of skills, knowledge, and character that we have developed together will continue to serve them well in the years to come.

To the Year 8 parents, thank you for entrusting your children to us and for being integral partners in their educational journey. Your support and involvement have been invaluable, and we are grateful for the strong sense of community that has flourished as a result.

As the students bid farewell to Year 8 and move on to Year 9 and beyond, let us celebrate the achievements, the growth, and the bright futures that await each and every one of them. I am confident that they will continue to shine as they embark on the next phase of their academic endeavours. 

To the Year 8 cohort, it has been an honour to be a part of your lives, and I am truly proud of the remarkable individuals you have and will continue to become.

I wish you all continued success and fulfilment in the years ahead.

All the best,

Mr Jarryd Leaves 

Leader of Wellbeing - Year 8

Dear Parents/Carers and Year 9 Students, 

Congratulations! Well done on all your achievements this year. You should be proud of yourselves. It has been a privilege to watch you grow in confidence, in your ability, resilience and continue to build your friendships with everyone in the Year Group and to see you continue to be a person for others who always go above and beyond.  All year 9 students really did have a good year. A year of growth, a year of change, a year of friendships, a year of learning and a year to remember. 

As I said in our year meeting this week, you as year 10 students next year will be expected to take the role of leaders in the junior campus, to be great role models for the younger students and lead by example. I know you will all be great leaders and rise to the occasion. 

Year 9 Camp 

Our Year 9 Camp was a wonderful experience that allowed students to forge friendships outside of the classroom. On Wednesday 6th December, Year 9 students made their way to the Great Aussie Bush camp. Over the 3 days, students challenged themselves by participating in a variety of activities. These included the giant swing, mud run, initiatives, orienteering, canoeing, leap of faith, abseiling and the survivor challenge. Throughout the camp, it was wonderful to see Year 9 build a sense of community, challenge themselves, develop physical and recreational skills, develop a sense of achievement and grow in confidence.  

Thank you very much to Mrs Weaver, Mr Fellows, Mr Alata, Miss Webb, Mrs Rosinski, Mr Leu, Mr Rodriguez, Miss Malonzo, Miss Garcia, Mr Pola and Mr Isaacs who attended the Year 9 Camp.  

Student Reflections 

Another year past and our grade was lucky enough to go on another camp. As we got there we were all eager and ready for the three days ahead of us. As we participated in the activities it was also a time to bond with our peers and enjoy time together. It was also a time to encourage each other to be brave to do things we normally wouldn’t and show our support to one another. Yet another fun experience has passed, we all came back tired but refreshed leaving us all eager to have another great fun time at camp next year. 

Year 9 camp 2023 was a fun and challenging experience. On the first day of camp we were introduced to the great and supportive staff at The Great Aussie bush camp. We participated in an engaging games and challenge night and we enjoyed chocolate milk and marshmallows around the campfire with our peers. It was a great time to get to know our friends outside of school and can’t wait for next year. 

It was beyond refreshing to see our year come together and enjoy experiences that were filled with learning, adventure, creativity and enjoyment. Being able to explore the outdoors and engage in activities utilising collaborative and interactive skills was truly something I wouldn’t have wanted to miss. The game night and challenge night were both very different events however were wonderful sources of entertainment. Our grade all came together as we embraced new challenges and supported each individual that stepped out of their comfort zone. To say the least, it was a delightful time. 

Year 9, enjoy your holidays. Take the time to relax, spend time with your family and friends and enjoy doing the things that you like to do. I will see you next year, as Year 10 students. 

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year. 

Ms Alicia Harwood 

Leader of Wellbeing Year 9 

Ready, Steady, Race 

We are so proud of our Year 8 Technology students who have been working on developing and creating their CO2 Cars as a part of the ‘Engineering’ unit in Technology. They have finished production of their cars and some have chosen to do paint work to suit their design and theme. Throughout this unit our students have needed to research and investigate concepts of aerodynamics, force, friction and motion. In the next few weeks our students will be racing their cars against each other for ultimate CO2 champion. We are looking forward to seeing whether the modifications they have made have improved the performance of their CO2 car. 

Dear St Andrews community,

We are thrilled to announce the outstanding winners of the St Andrews Writing Competition held in November. The competition showcased the incredible literary talents of our students across different year levels. The judges were impressed by the creativity, originality, and eloquence demonstrated by the participants.

**Year 7 Winners: Hannah Myint and Isabella Godinez**

Hannah Myint and Isabella Godinez captivated the judges with their exceptional writing skills. Their entries displayed a remarkable ability to weave imaginative texts, using language with precision. Congratulations to both Hannah and Isabella for their well-deserved victory in the Year 7 category.

**Year 8 Winner: Alyssa Bettiol**

In the Year 8 category, Alyssa Bettiol (a first-time entrant) emerged as the winner with her compelling poetry and strong command of language. Alyssa's entry stood out for its impact, showcasing a promising future in the world of literature.

**Year 9 Winner: Cassandra-Alison Caraig**

Cassandra-Alison Caraig demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of poetry in her winning entry for the Year 9 category. Her ability to create a narrative and convey complex emotions earned her the recognition as the Year 9 winner.

**Year 10 Winner: Mack Jones**

Mack Jones took the top spot in the Year 10 category with an exceptional writing style and insightful storytelling. Mack's entry impressed the judges and is a talent that promises great contributions to the literary world in the future.

**Year 11 Winner: Euleila Barrett**

Euleila Barrett showcased advanced writing skills in the Year 11 category, earning her the well-deserved title of winner. Euleila's entry demonstrated a maturity of thought and an adept command of language that left a lasting impression on the judges.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and commend every participant for their hard work and dedication. The St Andrews Writing Competition in November was a testament to the creativity and literary prowess within our school community.

On a final note for 2023, this has been the biggest year yet with entries, and while we have our regular entrants, many other regulars took a year to relax and did not enter. This means we have had many new winners each month and many house points awarded. This year, the writing competition has earned 2090 points for all the houses. In a House Cup competition that can be decided by 100 points or less, the writing competition is a good way to earn those extra points. The strongest writers this year came from Frances with 650 points; second, is a tie between Bennelong and Gould with 530 points each; and finally, Chang with 380 points.  Thank you to everyone who took a chance on their writing to enter. 

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce that the next writing competition will take place in February, 2024. We encourage all students to continue honing their writing skills and exploring the limitless possibilities that the world of literature offers.

Once again, congratulations to the winners, and we eagerly anticipate the remarkable literary contributions that will emerge from St Andrews in the year to come. Have a safe and wonderful break. 

Mr Duncan Dewar.

Big Band Theory is a band full of talented musicians that loves playing a variety of genres as well as improvising and creating their own music. It also boasts a variety of instruments - bass guitar, electric guitar, two keyboards, a violin and two flutes. We have been rehearsing once or twice a week throughout  the year - either at recess or lunch - and have had two performances during the year. Our first performance was at the Junior CAPA night - where we played Herbie Hancock’s ‘Watermelon Man’, and our most recent performance was at CAN where we played an original composition called ‘Collaborative Moments’.  Big Band Theory consists of Saumya Punj (violin), Moses Leveni (flute), Advait Paravangat (flute), Sage Cheng (keyboard), Max Brewer (keyboard), Angelo Demian (bass guitar) & Claudia Fuimaono (electric guitar). I am very proud of the students, and of what we have achieved this year. If anyone is interested in joining Big Band Theory - in particular students who play woodwind, brass, strings & percussion instruments, (and you have your own instrument) - please speak with one of the band members or Mrs Cooper next year. 

Mrs Sue Cooper

Leader of Wellbeing and Learning

scooper@parra.catholic.edu.au

It has been a monumental year for all things Drama here at St Andrews. Our wonderful student cohort have had multiple opportunities to express their creativity and develop their confidence through the art of performance. The list of our dramatic experiences is quite extensive and as such, here are the major highlights:

Theatresports

As per last year, our Theatresports program continued to remain strong throughout this year. Running during sport, students were provided the opportunity to engage with a range of high and low stakes performance activities. Theatresports is a form of improvisation theatre that helps students think on their feet within a safe but competitive environment.

Such classics as Scenes From A Hat and Let’s Make A Date were instant hits and provided many laughs throughout the year. It has been a privilege to see our students, in particular the Year 7 and Year 8 students, grow in confidence and develop their leadership skills. We look forward to what the next year brings for Theatresports.

Junior CAPA Showcase

During Term 2, we showcased the talents of students from Years 7-10 and what they were working on within the term. Our year 10 drama students had been exploring the art of monologues and character creation, inspired by the techniques of the legendary Stanislavsky. As a result, students were able to develop their craft in portraying their characters' emotions, personality, and mannerisms through group and individual pieces. On the other hand, our talented theatre sports students had honed their improvisational skills in creating witty and engaging stories on the spot and were brave enough to show this to an audience, where a lot of them had never performed in front of an audience.

Drama in Liturgy

Drama has worked with the Religion department this year to enhance College liturgies. In particular, the department has been pivotal in providing key imagery that provides students the opportunity to reflect on the deeper meaning of their faith. We look forward to working further with the Religion faculty in the future to enhance the College liturgies.

2023 Production: A Midsummer Night’s Dream

After nearly five years of dormancy, St Andrews College produced and performed a major college production. After auditions were held in the early weeks of Term 2, students and staff worked diligently throughout the next two terms to put on a magnificent reinterpretation of the Shakespearean classic: A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It was a magical series of evenings that helped to demonstrate what we are about here at St Andrews: going above and beyond.

With an ensemble cast from Year 7 all the way to Year 12, it served as a key experience that was full of learning opportunities but fun. Perhaps the most remarkable part of the production was seeing the College community come together with a range of teachers and staff assisting with the production. The chance to see the Senior students acting as mentors for the Juniors was a remarkable experience.

Keep your eyes peeled for what we have planned regarding our production for next year. After all, something wicked this way comes.

 

As we stand at the end of the year, it is only right that we reflect on all that we have achieved and have yet to achieve. The St Andrews Drama department is committed to continuing to build creative opportunities for our students in the next year. Until then, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 

 

Mr Nick Lewandowski

Director and Drama Teacher

Miss Christina Rujicica
Drama Teacher

On Thursday 7 - Friday 8 December, Year 8 went on camp to AGH Camps at Douglas Park. For most of the students, this was their first overnight camp, as COVID had meant many of these activities had been cancelled (we did go on a camp in Yr 7, however we did not stay overnight). So everyone was definitely looking forward to this camp! Mr Leaves had organised the activity groups so students could meet new friends - thank you to the students who embraced this challenge. It was wonderful seeing students supporting each other in their groups as they tried the various activities. The activities included High Ropes, Raft Building, Maxi Ziplines, Canoeing, Quick Drop Free Fall, Initiatives, Archery & the Gorge Swing. Congratulations to the students who challenged themselves, even though they may have been a bit out of their comfort zone. Dr Kennaugh visited us on Thursday - and not wanting to miss out, showed us how it was done on the Quick Drop Free Fall, to the cheers of the students nearby.

Thank you to Mr Leaves for his organisation and for the fabulous teachers who supported the students on camp - Mr Weaver, Mr Lenehan, Mrs Shnoudi, Mr Culbert, Mr McBride, Miss Breeze, Mrs Yuen, Mr Lewandowski, Miss Douglas and Mrs Stenglin.

And also a big thank you and congratulations to Year 8 for their effort on camp, and the way they participated in the activities. It was a wonderful experience.

Mrs Sue Cooper

Leader of Wellbeing and Learning

scooper@parra.catholic.edu.au

On the 4th of December, a group of high school students from Takanabe High School in Miyazaki, Japan had the opportunity to visit St Andrews College for a day. The Miyazaki Takanabe high school students and St Andrews College students studying Japanese had the opportunity to exchange cultures and language skills through a variety of interactive activities. Students from Year 9 and Year 12 Japanese courses were involved in multiple icebreaker activities, providing a school tour of the Junior campus, Naidoc colouring, outdoor games, Australian Animal quizzes and sharing Aussie snacks for lunch. This day allowed students to share experiences and interests beyond the language barrier and meet potential life friends. We are grateful to Takanabe High School for allowing St Andrews College students to exchange languages and learn more about Japanese culture, encouraging students to embrace their love of learning Japanese beyond the classroom. 

We would like to acknowledge Mrs Suzuki, Mrs Yuen, Mrs Cummins and Miss Matsufuji for organising and providing all the essentials for the day. 

Athieu Majok 

Year 12 HSC Japanese Continuer

Exceptional Achievers in 2023 Years 8 and 9 Japanese Language Course

As we come to the close of another successful academic year, it is with great pleasure that we take a moment to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Year 8 and 9 students in the Japanese language courses. We are delighted to highlight the exceptional accomplishments of our students in the Japanese language courses, particularly those who have achieved an outstanding grade of 'A' at the 2023 End of Year Report. In recognition of their dedication and excellence, we are pleased to announce the issuance of special certificates to these high-achieving individuals. 

These students have exhibited not only a strong grasp of Japanese grammar, vocabulary, and cultural nuances but also a genuine passion for learning a language. Their commitment to academic excellence and enthusiasm for Japanese studies have truly set them apart.

Their success reflects the combined efforts of our dedicated Japanese language teachers and the supportive learning environment here at St Andrews College. We would like to thank Dr Kennaugh for his continuous strong support and encouragement in language education. 

As we approach the holiday season, let us take pride in the achievements of our students and look forward to a new year filled with continued growth and success.

Sincerely yours, 

Mariko Suzuki

Leader of Learning - Languages

UNSW Young Women in Engineering Pathway Program

The University of NSW Young Women in Engineering Pathway Program offers students in Year 11 and Year 12  an alternative pathway into Engineering at UNSW. This program sits alongside the university's Portfolio Entry Program.

Program participants undertake a hands-on real-world engineering challenge set by a lead female academic from each of the UNSW Engineering schools. There are eight challenges to choose from, and students work in teams of five on the challenge under the mentorship of a Women in Engineering student ambassador and develop skills in design thinking, problem solving, communication and innovation, whilst learning how engineering can make an impact in the world.

The UNSW Young Women in Engineering Pathway Program has three main pillars that align with the values of UNSW Women in Engineering; they are: INSPIRE, ENGAGE and EMPOWER. Students have a choice of activities to complete to be awarded the pillar badges.

The EMPOWER pillar program runs from 20 February to 21 March 2024. To receive the EMPOWER pillar badge, students will be required to produce a 3-5-minute video in small teams of up to five students outlining their solution to their selected engineering challenge. Students will also need to submit an individual 500 - 1,000 word reflection piece about their experience in the program. Throughout the program students will have access to UNSW mentors and resources, and opportunities to connect to other students.

Interested students are encouraged to register as soon as possible as places are limited.  There is a $10 non-refundable registration fee to secure a place.

Female students wishing to register are encouraged to visit this link .

College Leadership Team

Leaders of Learning - Wellbeing

College Leaders of Learning - KLA

College Leaders of Learning