Dear Parents and Carers,

The quiet reflection of this Holy Week prepares us for the joyful celebration of Easter Sunday. At its heart, the Easter story is one of hope that we can see the world as God intended. This sense of renewal is the high point of the Christian calendar and a powerful reminder of what is possible.

I wish the entire ERC community a very Happy Easter. May the message of Jesus’ sacrifice and rising remain central to our thoughts as we take this time to step back from our busy lives and discern what is truly important.

During the upcoming break, I will be representing our College community at the Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders (EREBB) International Congress in Argentina. This global gathering brings together leaders from a network of 275 schools across 25 countries, all united by our shared Edmund Rice tradition.

A significant part of the Congress will be a pilgrimage through Buenos Aires, walking in the footsteps of our former Pope Francis. It promises to be a spirit-filled experience and an opportunity to encounter the same Jesus the Pope knew by connecting with global colleagues and standing in solidarity with the diverse communities we serve.

I look forward to bringing the insights and shared spirit of this international gathering back to our school in the new term.

For a large part of last week, our College hosted an external EREA Renewal Panel for a comprehensive three-day review of our community. This process involved an analysis of staff and student survey data, alongside several student, staff, parent, and wider community focus group interviews.

We are incredibly grateful to the many stakeholders who participated in these discussions. This Renewal is a vital part of our commitment to continuous improvement, and we look forward to sharing the Panel’s findings with you once formally received.

As this is the final newsletter before the Easter break, it is worth reflecting on a busy ten-week period. It is very pleasing to see the continual growth in the large majority of our students. I also wish to acknowledge the strong commitment of our staff, who, together with the vital support and encouragement from our parents and carers, make up our vibrant learning community. As principal, I am very grateful to all who have worked towards further enhancing ERC throughout what was a very rewarding Term.

I wish you all a safe and holy break.

Dr Stephen Gough

With Term One now complete I wanted to congratulate the boys on a wonderful start to our Centenary Year. As we prepare for Term 2 I take this opportunity to remind you of a few important events that will take place very early in the term.

• Athletics Carnival– This event will take place on Thursday 23rd of April. This is a compulsory school event.
• Founder’s Activities Day – This will be held on Friday May 1st (Week 2). A letter was sent earlier this week with specific details pertaining to the day. Please take the time to read this letter carefully.

One of the most successful initiative of 2026 is House Friday, we are particularly proud of our Student Leaders (in particular our House Prefects), our House Patrons who under the leadership of our Leadership Facilitators Mrs Jessica Haines and Miss Karina Tomasi have worked hard to foster a strong sense of House Spirit, identity and belonging.

With this in mind for both the Athletics’ Carnival and the Founder’s Day Activities Day students will be permitted to wear House colours instead of their Sports Uniform. The shirts must be appropriate for a school event, please pay careful attention to any slogans on coloured shirts.

These two events are compulsory, attendance at both of these events will be recorded on the Semester One Report.

In Week 3 we will celebrate the Feast of Blessed Edmund Rice and present our 2026 Touchstone awards as well as the Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea.

Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea

During Week 3 the P & F will host the annual Mother’s Day Afternoon tea. This year the process for obtaining tickets to this highly sought after event has changed.

Each year we receive feedback in relation to the issuing of tickets, having considered this feedback in conjunction with the P & F committee we have revised the process of securing tickets. Therefore in 2026 tickets will be released over 3 days. All tickets will be made available from 8pm on the published date.

• Wednesday April 22: Tickets will be made available to Mothers/Carers of boys in Years 7 and 12. They will be able to ‘purchase’ a ticket for themselves and their son/sons only
• Thursday April 23: Tickets will be made available to Mothers/ Carers of boys in Years 8-11. They will be able to purchase a ticket for themselves and their son/sons only.
• Friday April 24: Additional tickets will be released for those wishing to secure tickets for grandmothers or aunties etc.

We respectfully request that you secure tickets for members of your family only please and check that you are available to attend the event at the time of booking. Whilst if, due to unforeseen circumstances you do need to cancel we will reallocate your ticket to the next on the waiting list.

Finally, this year this event will be supporting Women Illawarra, this year we are inviting guests to make a donation to support this organisation at the time of securing your tickets via Humanitix.

Whilst we recognise this is a significant change we hope that this advance notice will allow you to plan for the time when you are able to access tickets.

Winter Uniform

Students return to school on Tuesday 21 April in full winter uniform, grey trousers, plain black belt, ice blue shirt with College crest and College tie, plain black polishable leathers shoes, ERC red jumper or for junior students the College Jacket/ Senior students the College Blazer and the College beanie. Additionally, the Centenary Jersey may be worn on Friday’s.

All students are expected to return to school clean shaven and with hairstyles that comply with College guidelines.

I wish you and your families a very happy, holy and safe Easter.

Mrs Hughes
Deputy Principal

From Palm Sunday, we take our final steps towards the journey to the cross and the resurrection. We were very privileged on Tuesday to attend the Chrism Mass where the sacred oils were blessed for each parish in the Diocese. The priest reaffirmed their commitment to be the shepherds of their parishes. It was an extra special occasion for us as we accompanied College students who will receive the sacraments using these very oils at St Therese Parish during the Easter Vigil. Thanks to Harrison Macdonald, Luke Davis, Flynn Pratt and Finlay Kilpatrick for representing the College at the mass.

The Easter Triduum serves as the pinnacle of our liturgical year, commencing on the evening of Holy Thursday (2 April 2026) and continuing through to the evening of Easter Sunday (5 April 2026). Although these comprise three chronological days, they are celebrated as one liturgical day that invites us to reflect on the unity of the paschal mystery: “dying he destroyed our death and rising he restored our life.” You can find information about services in your area below:

Easter Triduum times finder – Catholic Diocese of Wollongong

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

The first Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders (EREBB) zoom call of 2026 was an incredible opportunity to connect with people from around the world and listen to an address from Br David Silva, deputy leader for the Congregation of Christian Brothers who spoke to us from Rome. He inspired us to think about the actions of Blessed Edmund simplified in: ‘heard, saw, gave,’ positioning this as our calling as leaders in the Edmund Rice Tradition. Following this inspirational presentation, we split into global breakout sessions to discuss insightful questions including:

• What does being a good leader look like?
• How does this reflect the Edmund Rice vision?
• What practical things do they do?

Conversations with individuals from places like America, Argentina and South Africa helped us think about new ideas to implement in our College. With more global dialogues to come this year, it is an incredible opportunity for students to engage with the expansive EREA community.

Koen Minett (EREBB Champion), Harrison Macdonald, Tyler Boggiss

This Lenten Season, Edmund Rice College has supported the work of the Caritas foundation, promoting their theme, ‘Unite Against Poverty’. Our students have been standing in solidarity with those most vulnerable living on the poverty line which in 2026 is just $3.50 per day. Over the term, student leaders have been raising awareness to the issues that 3 in 10 people in the world face. Students were challenged to think about what poverty looks like, and why systematic injustices occur. The College showed great compassion and initiative in supporting the worthy cause, they took all opportunities to Unite Against Poverty and the school successfully raised $2,850.45 for the Caritas Foundation.

In order to promote this compassion, the school held an Advocacy Lesson on Tuesday, Week 9 in their pastoral classes, put together by the Social Justice and ERA For Change Prefects from Years 8-12. During the lesson students were exposed to the raw data and statistics of true suffering. Students also put this solidarity into practice as they participated in 3 activities in the classroom, they were challenged to use their perspective to enlighten their empathy for those living on the poverty line.

Students were also asked to bring in all the coins they could find so student leaders could formulate the words ‘UNITE ERC’ in the school foyer, a powerful sentiment that could only be achieved through the generosity of the students who donate to ‘Unite Against Poverty’ this Lent.

Thank you to all the students who were proactive in their compassion this Lent, and an enormous thank you to the work of the student leadership team, and the immense assistance from our support teachers. Well done ERC!

Tyler Boggiss
Year 12 ERA For Change Prefect

Harmony Week is a time to celebrate Australia’s cultural diversity. It is about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, where being a multicultural society forms a part of our national identity. On Friday 20th March the ERC community came together to celebrate Harmony Day, where orange signified our commitment to social cohesion and mutual respect. To celebrate their diverse backgrounds, participating students joined the conversation by pinning their ancestors’ locations on a world map and planting an orange tree to symbolise us helping to achieve a sustainable future built upon respect and connection to the environment . Where our shared stories and experiences emphasised the poignant message that “everyone belongs.” Join us in fostering a kind, inclusive environment where every student shines at ERC.

Miss Tomasi

The Narragunnawali Reconciliation Action Plan process helps schools in Australia to navigate respectful ways to ensure that we honour the First People of Australia and learn together so that we create a country where everyone is valued and respected. Our current RAP can be found here:

Our RAP is all about relationships, respect and learning. Every two years we set priorities, based on what we perceive to be the needs of our particular school community. We ask for feedback from Staff, students and community members. If you have some time, we would love to hear from you. Any parents / carers of Edmund Rice College students are invited to respond by Wednesday April 22. Thank you for taking the time.

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

“Youth Alpha is a fun, interactive way for high school aged youth to explore the deeper questions of life and faith together. There will be games, a meal, engaging and fun video content and a chance to chat about life together in a relaxed, welcoming environment where you can ask anything, or just listen. It will run on Fridays 7pm to 9pm from 1st May, during Term 2. There is a capacity limit so register as soon as you can and come and see if you like it!”

Last week, our Year 11 Visual Arts students embarked on our annual three-day Art Camp at the Bundanon Trust, immersing themselves in the inspiring landscape that inspired the work of renowned Australian artist Arthur Boyd.

Unfortunately, the weather didn’t allow for us to visit the historic Homestead and former residence of Boyd’s family, so we made our way directly to the Bundanon Art Museum to view the exhibition ‘Sky, Earth, Water with artists Rosalie Gasgoine, Lorraine Connelly-Northey, Janet Fieldhouse and Glenda Nichols. This was an informative exhibition based on contemporary responses to the landscape.

After the Art Museum, students enjoyed a scenic lunch before settling into the Education Centre, where they spent the next few days creating their own artworks. The afternoon was filled with educator led hands-on art making activities designed to capture the natural beauty surrounding them. Inspired by the rugged terrain and serene waterways, students experimented with various techniques, including delicate ink drawings by the creek, expressive charcoal studies of trees, and vibrant acrylic paintings of the river.

This immersive experience allowed students to explore new media, refine their artistic skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the Australian landscape—just as Boyd once did. The camp was a perfect blend of learning, creativity, and connection with nature, leaving everyone inspired and eager to bring these new ideas into their future artmaking.

In the evenings the students attended three artmaking workshops. On Wednesday evening we were led by artist Jaz Corr who is a featured Aboriginal Educator at Bundanon. Through her practice, she shared Ancient Indigenous wisdom that centres on caring for the Earth and guided the students in connecting this knowledge with contemporary aboriginal iconography and artistic expression. The night photography session facilitated by Ms Costello explored the landscape using slow shutter speeds to capture light trails and reflections. Mr Sunarya’s workshop focused on intaglio etching inspired by the natural environment.

The students are to be congratulated on their engagement, positivity and overall enthusiasm over the three days. This exciting opportunity will continue to be offered as part of the Year 11 Visual Arts Program in future years.

Ms Costello

Year 12 Visual Arts students recently visited Hazelhurst Art Centre to view ArtExpress, a prestigious annual exhibition showcasing outstanding bodies of work from New South Wales HSC Visual Arts students. The excursion provided an exciting opportunity for Year 12 to see a wide range of artworks across different forms, including painting, photography, sculpture, drawing and time-based forms. This experience also gave valuable insight into the standard of work achieved by top HSC students. It was particularly exciting for the students to see the work of Edmund Rice student John-Paul Bridger exhibited.

The boys were able to examine how ideas were developed and communicated through strong technical skill, thoughtful conceptual approaches and carefully considered materials. It was particularly motivating for them to also see how sustained research, experimentation and refinement had helped achieve such a high standard.

This opportunity was a highly positive and motivating experience, and we look forward to seeing what our students achieve with their own work over the next few months.

Ms Costello

Congratulations to John-Paul Bridger, whose work is currently on display in the ARTEXPRESS Exhibition at Hazelhurst Arts Centre. John-Paul was one of just 51 students selected to exhibit at this prestigious gallery — an outstanding achievement. John-Paul, his family, and members of the Visual Arts staff from ERC attended the opening to celebrate this wonderful success. The exhibition runs from 9 February to 12 April.

John-Paul has also been invited to participate in a panel discussion at Stoicon‑X Sydney 2026 on Sunday 31 May 2026 at the ACU North Sydney Campus. During the panel, he will discuss the theme of memento mori, which he explored in depth for his HSC Body of Work.

Ms Costello

Get ready to crank up the volume because the Battle of the Bands is officially back for this year’s Founder’s Day on May 1st! Whether you’re part of a high-energy garage rock group or a solo acoustic act with a story to tell, we want to see your talent on the main stage. Not only will the top performers walk away with exciting prizes on the day, but every participant will earn those all-important House points to help their House climb the leaderboard.

Sign up now via the Google Form on TASS or use the link provided HERE.

Mr Bonaccorso

Baxter, Year 11 : Culture, Courage, and the 2025 Award

In Episode 19, the team sits down with Baxter in Year 11. They explore the inspiring journey of an athlete who has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of major injuries. The episode highlights Baxter’s four-year leadership as captain of the Koori Rugby boys and his prestigious recognition as the 2025 Illawarra Indigenous Athlete of the Year. Beyond his athletic achievements, the discussion delves into his passionate advocacy for Indigenous culture and his firm stance against discrimination in sports, showcasing his role as a dedicated leader and cultural ambassador.

Link to the Episode on Spotify

Mr Bonaccorso

As we approach the final days of Term 1, we find ourselves at a natural crossroads. With Progress Reports recently distributed and the Easter holidays commencing next week, it is the perfect moment to pause, breathe, and bring together the themes we have explored over the last ten weeks.

This term, we have challenged the all-or-nothing mindset. We’ve looked at how micro-habits (the small, repeatable wins) beat grand resolutions. We’ve discussed the concept of friction, of allowing our sons to face challenges without us smoothing the path, and we’ve reframed assessment disappointment not as a failure, but as a chance to challenge their current systems.

Reading the Progress Report: Data, Not Destiny

With reports now in hand, it is tempting to focus solely on the feedback as final data. However, I encourage you to view these reports through the lens of Positive Psychology.

A report is simply a snapshot of a student’s current systems. If the results aren’t what you hoped for, don’t treat it as a problem to be fixed, but as a person to be supported.

• The Micro-Habit Move: Instead of a total rebuild for Term 2, find one specific area—perhaps a single study ritual or an organisational habit—that your son can tweak.
• The Conversation: Use the “Side-by-Side Chat” we discussed earlier this term. On a walk or a drive, ask him: “Which of these subject reports are you proud of, and which one would you like to work on next term?”

Easter: The Ultimate Season of Renewal

As a Catholic College, the Easter period is the heartbeat of our faith. It is the ultimate story of “The Reset.” The journey from the struggle of Good Friday to the joy of Easter Sunday reminds us that renewal is always possible, and that even the greatest friction can lead to a transformative beginning.

In the context of our boys’ journey, Easter teaches us that they are never defined by their last mistake or their lowest grade. There is always the opportunity to rise, to start fresh, and to grow.

The Strategic Holiday Reboot

The upcoming break is not just a gap in the calendar; it is a Strategic Reset.

In our world of constant convenience and digital noise, the holidays offer a rare chance to re-introduce the analogue parts of life that build belonging. Whether it’s a family meal, a trip outdoors, or simply a morning without an alarm clock, these moments allow our sons to consolidate what they have learned this term.

My challenge for you this Easter: Give your son permission to truly switch off and let the pressure come down. A rested brain is a resilient brain.

On behalf of the entire Pastoral Care team at the College thank you for your partnership throughout this first term of our Centenary year. It is a privilege to be on this journey with you and your sons. May your Easter be filled with the peace of Christ and the joy of family.

Mr Ferguson
Director of Pastoral Care & Wellbeing

As we reach the conclusion of Term 1, we reflect on what has been a remarkable start to the high school journey for our Year 7 cohort. Transitioning from primary school to a secondary school is a significant milestone and we have been incredibly proud of the resilience, spirit, and brotherhood shown by the boys over the past ten weeks.

The term began with our four-day Transition Week, a vital period where the boys moved from being “newcomers” to true members of the Edmund Rice community. Through the ‘My Strengths’ program, students identified their unique individual strengths. These early days, complemented by practical sessions like Big Fish into Little Fish and liturgy talks, provided the boys with the confidence and tools to navigate College life.

A clear highlight of the term was our three-day adventure camp at Tallong Outdoor Education. Stepping out of their comfort zones, the boys tackled high ropes, team challenges and outdoor initiatives. More importantly, they got to know one another beyond the classroom. It was heartening to see new friendships formed and to witness the boys encouraging one another through every challenge; embodying the true spirit of an Edmund Rice man.

In the classroom, Year 7 has hit the ground running. They have navigated their first formal assessment block and completed the NAPLAN testing with focus and diligence. Their ability to balance these academic demands while still bringing enthusiasm to their daily lessons is a true testament to their resilience. We look forward to seeing them maintain this fantastic momentum throughout the year.

Our Year 7 cohort has united spiritually through our Year Group Liturgy, consistently embodying our ‘Seed will Grow’ theme through their steadfast engagement in these vital aspects of school life. This sense of belonging extends to their houses; Ignatius, Rice, McMahon, Waterford, Crown and Keira, where a growing house spirit is increasingly seen in their daily interactions.

We would like to thank the parents and carers for your ongoing support during this important transition. The seeds have been planted, the roots are taking hold and we look forward to seeing how much further this cohort will grow throughout the year.
Looking ahead to Term 2, we look forward to welcoming the boys back to school on Tuesday, 21st April. As the cooler weather approaches, please note that all students are to return to school in their full winter uniform.

We wish all Year 7 families a safe, Holy, and restful Easter break.

Mr Panozzo & Mrs Field

Please be advised of the upcoming College Photo Days, scheduled for Term 2. The purchasing code and ordering details will be distributed as soon as they become available.

PLEASE NOTE: Y7 – Y11 Students who are absent on Tuesday, 26th May will not be able to catch up their individual portrait photos.

College Photo Day 1 – Tuesday, 12th May:
Y12 Cohort Photo and Individual Portraits
Sibling Photos

College Photo Day 2 –Tuesday, 26th May:
Y7 – Y11 Individual Portraits
Y7 – Y10 Pastoral Class Photo
Y11 House Class Photo
Y12 Catch up Individual Portraits

College Photo Day 3 – Groups – Monday, 31st August:
Sport groups
Extra-curricular groups
No individual portrait catch ups will be done this day

Mr Fields
Director of Operations

The 2026 College Cross Country Carnival, which took place on Friday, 27 March, was a clear reflection of our students’ endurance and commitment. With the event being held right here on the school grounds, the familiar College landscape became a tough course due to the difficult weather conditions. Approaching rain and cold, windy gusts made for challenging running; however, the boys rose to the occasion, navigating the difficult conditions with commendable resilience and enthusiasm.

The competition across the age groups was fierce. In the 12 Years division, Ashton Chudleigh took 1st place, followed by Jed Dwyer in second.

The 13 Years saw Archie Galvin lead the pack with blistering pace, with George Earl (2nd), Jacob Dowler (3rd), Tyler Bailey (4th), Ashton Weeks (5th), and Eli Rollinson (6th) rounding out the top six.

In the 14 Years, Zachariah Crook claimed victory, ahead of Mitchell Taylor (2nd), Max Polhill (3rd), Beau Thompson (4th), Quade Nelson (5th), and Kai Edwards-Jones (6th)

In the 15 Years, Alexander Torta crossed the line first, followed by Darcy Stepanovski (2nd), Callum Cajar (3rd), Jonny Antoniou (4th), George Griffin (5th), and Callum Ardita (6th).

The 16 Years competition was won by Lachlan Mason, with Nash Ferguson (2nd), Finbar Virgona (3rd), Cruz Coleiro (4th), James Milsom (5th), and Jedd Thompson (6th) finishing strongly.

In the 17 Years, Milton Stepanovski took the top spot, followed by Patrick Smith (2nd), William Papandreas (3rd), Oliver Johnson (4th), Rhys Barnes (5th), and Bear Holland (6th).

Finally, in the 18 Years, William Mason took 1st place, followed by Harry Fraser (2nd), Harry Jackson (3rd), Conor Mathie (4th), Jack Jackson (5th), and Leonardo Attorre (6th).

The collective effort of every runner contributed to the highly anticipated House Point Tally. After a day of intense competition in testing conditions, Keira House emerged as the house with the most points with an incredible 323. Ignatius followed closely in a spirited second place with 303 points, while Rice House secured third with 187 points. McMahon (143 points), Waterford (110 points), and Crown (85 points) rounded out the standings.

Congratulations to all the boys who participated and showed such fantastic school spirit! The Top 6 runners from 12 – 16 and the Top 4 in 17+ have qualified for the Diocesan Carnival to be held in May.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

Edmund Rice College continues to cement its reputation as a powerhouse of Rugby League within the Wollongong Diocese following the recent Diocesan Rugby League Trials. In an impressive display of athleticism and grit, 14 ERC students have been selected across the U16s and Opens squads. These elite players will now progress to the next stage of the NSWCCC pathway, vying for selection in the Southern Country Catholic Rugby League teams. We wish these young men the best of luck as they compete against the best talent from across the region for a chance at higher representative honours.

Jacob Austin, Ayden Celebi, Nash Ferguson, Magnus Kersten, Gus Tunbridge, Tex Anderson, Fletcher Couchman, Jack Mann, Sterling McEwan, Cale Parr, Cooper Starr, Abdel Sultan, Max Van Loo, Oskar Vegneris.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

The search for the next generation of Australian football icons is officially underway. The Emerging Socceroo’s Championships represents more than just a tournament. They are the premier scouting ground for the national stage.

This competition serves as the critical pathway for players aiming to break into the Joeys (U17), Australia’s first official junior national team. For these young athletes, every match is an opportunity to prove they have the technical skill, discipline, and heart to wear the Green and Gold. We look forward to seeing who will rise to the challenge and take their first step toward a professional international career.

For the first time, our under 15 domestic talent won’t just be competing against the best from every Australian state, they will be facing off against elite international opposition from Japan who have a renowned development program in Kumamoto.

Outstanding performers are identified here for the first-ever junior Socceroo’s squad and competing against Japan’s technical excellence provides a true test for our players’ international readiness.

Tournament Snapshot

• Dates: 18 – 24 April 2026
• Venue: Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood, NSW
• Featured Teams: Australian States and country teams + JFA Academy (Japan)

A Massive Achievement for Our College

We are incredibly proud to announce that several of our own students have been selected for the two squads competing in this year’s championships:

15’s: Callum Cajar, Max Smith, Orlando Beer, Ethan Dzeparoski, Ethan Mathie, Travis Potter

16’s: Stefan Anagnostopoulos, Lewis Andrews, Alexander Bradshaw-Wett, Fabian Gaudiosi, Aidan Rayner, Christian Ugonotti

A special congratulations goes to Max Smith who has been selected for the Sydney Metropolitan squad! This is an outstanding feat, placing Max among the top young talents in Australia as they prepare to face off against the best from across Australia and Japan.

Mr Cajar

Edmund Rice College is incredibly proud to celebrate the stellar achievements of our students at the 2026 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships, held recently at North Kirra and Tugun. In what can only be described as hectic and challenging water conditions, our students proved they are among the elite in the nation, bringing home a haul of Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals.

Leading the charge on the sand was Year 12 student Nicholas Aivaliotis, who dominated the U19 category. Nicholas secured the Australian Championship Gold Medal in the U19 Beach Sprint, an incredible feat of explosive power. He backed this up with a Silver Medal in the Beach Flags and two Bronze Medals in the U19 Mixed and Male Relays, marking him as one of the most successful beach competitors of the carnival.

In the water, our athletes were equally impressive. Darcy Stepanovski showcased remarkable stamina in the U15 2km Ocean Swim, navigating a tough field and tricky swell to claim the Silver Medal.

In the U15 Cameron Relay, where the trio of Jenson Norris, Callum Ardita, and Jake Schulze combined to secure a Silver Medal. Additionally, Max Miller displayed exceptional technical skill and surf awareness in the U17 Board Rescue, earning a Bronze Medal alongside his club teammate.

We also recognise Nate Jennett, Drew Potter, Taj Caldwell, and Mitchell Taylor, who competed, representing their respected clubs.

Congratulations to all students on these world-class results!

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

Please access the Careers Website: which provides the latest information to help students make decisions about their future careers and life beyond school.

• Go to erccareers.com
• Then to important information
• Click on to School Careers newsletter

Mr Cajar
Careers Advisor

We warmly invite the Parent Community of Edmund Rice College to volunteer their time and spirit for our Annual Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea — a truly special occasion that celebrates the meaningful connection between mothers and their sons. This cherished afternoon is made even more memorable through the support of our community, and we are seeking helping hands for planning, set-up, organisation, pack-up, and a cheerful band of “merry men” to warmly welcome our guests. Whether you can spare an hour or a few, your contribution will make a genuine difference and be greatly appreciated. If you’re able to assist, please complete the Google Form HERE — we would love to have you involved.

Charmaine McInerney and the Edmund Rice P&F

2026 TERM DATES

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2026 Calendar of Events

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CANTEEN MENU

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PROCEDURES FOR PARENTS / CARERS

Student Absences

Whilst the preferred method of communication regarding absences is via the TASS Parent Portal we understand that sometimes access to the portal can be limited. We therefore ask parents/carers to provide daily absence information (Whole day absences/late arrivals/early departure/absence notes etc.) via the following email address: absences@erc.nsw.edu.au

Reminders:

• Leave required for 4-9 days needs to be requested by emailing the College: office@erc.nsw.edu.au
• Leave requests for 10 or more days requires completing an Application for Extended Leave Form (which can be found on the College website under Quicklinks).

Collecting your son from school

A reminder to all families that should a circumstance arise where you need to collect your son from school before the end of the school day we require you to come to the College Office. Students will not be permitted to walk to the carpark or the street to be collected. If they leave to attend a pre-arranged appointment we request that this is communicated to the College Office in writing via note or email. If you wish to have someone collect your son that is not currently listed on TASS then you will be required to communicate this clearly in writing, you will also receive a call to verify that you did in fact authorise this arrangement. All students arriving late or departing early are required to sign in and out through the Student Office.

Parent Appointments

As a College we respectfully request that any parent wishing to discuss a matter of concern with a member of staff contacts the relevant staff member via email or via telephone through the College Office and requests an appointment. Staff members will get back to you at their earliest convenience. Parents presenting at the College Office may be asked to make an appointment and return at a mutually convenient time. For specific information about who to contact please refer to your son’s diary on pages 6, 7, 28 and 29.

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Change in Student/Family Circumstances/Contact Information/Medical Conditions

If any change has occurred/occurs in your family – separation, divorce, serious illness, the College should be notified as soon as possible. The College seeks to be supportive of families in such circumstances and such events always have a bearing on a child’s education. Likewise, a change of address, email or phone number (work, home or mobile) or emergency contact should be advised immediately.

If your son suffers from a medical condition it is vital that you inform the office of his condition and what treatment is required in an emergency. An emergency management plan must be developed for any students with serious conditions.

Please verify all information via the TASS Parent Lounge.

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A Cyber Safety Event for Parents and Carers

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Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal

Wherever there is hardship or injustice, Salvos will live, love and
fight, alongside others, to transform Australia one life at a time
with the love of Jesus.

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Wollongong Youth Centre School Holiday Program

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KiDSWiSH – Free Family Events