Dear Parents and Carers,

As we commence the 2025 academic year, I extend a warm welcome to all members of our College community, especially to our new students, families, and staff. It has been wonderful to witness our students settle quickly into College life, embracing the routines and opportunities that come with a new school year. I would like to particularly acknowledge our Year 7 students for their enthusiasm in navigating this transition period. My sincere thanks to Mr Bourke, Mrs Field, and the Year 7 Pastoral Team for their dedicated work in facilitating such a supportive and engaging Year 7 Transition Program. I also express my gratitude to our Year 11 Peer Support Leaders for their guidance and generosity in ensuring our newest students feel welcomed and supported.

We also welcome new staff members who have joined us this year: Mr Paul Hughes (Director of Learning and Teaching), Mrs Josie Cadorin (HSIE Teacher), Mr Luke McBriarty (Mathematics Teacher), Mr Anderson Barrett (Sports Admin Assistant) and Mrs Tanya Levi, who returns after her period of maternity leave. We look forward to the contributions they will make to our school community.

The year ahead is filled with promise, and I am excited about the opportunities that await our community. Our Touchstone focus for 2025 is ‘Justice and Solidarity’ – a guiding principle that calls us to build an inclusive, compassionate, and equitable community. This theme serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to support one another and to seek justice in our daily interactions.

In this Jubilee Year of Hope within the Catholic Church, we reflect on the words of Pope Francis: “Hope is bold; it knows how to look beyond personal convenience, the small securities and compensations which narrow the horizon, to open itself up to grand ideals that make life more beautiful and worthwhile.” May this year be one of renewal, faith, and commitment to the hope that continues to strengthen our community.

I am also pleased to announce that Trinity Fitout and Construction have been awarded the contract for the large-scale development of the new Technology Centre. This exciting project will provide state-of-the-art facilities, enhancing our students’ learning experiences and further equipping them with the skills needed for the future.

Earlier today at the High Achievers Assembly, we proudly acknowledged the outstanding achievements of our Class of 2024 in their HSC results. A special congratulations to our College Dux (sponsored by Acorn Lawyers) and John Joseph Pollock Scholarship recipient, Matthew Carolan, who attained an exceptional ATAR of 99.03. The list of Distinguished Achievers, including subject-specific high performers, highlights the academic excellence fostered at our College.

At this time I also congratulate recent 2024 graduates: Matthew Marning, Alby Ferguson and Samuel Corvalan, who have each been awarded a prestigious ‘Step into Teaching’ scholarship from the Catholic Education Office, Wollongong. We wish them well in their studies with wonderful support within this worthwhile initiative.

Looking ahead, I encourage all students to set personal and academic goals for the year. Determination, perseverance, and a commitment to working on the small disciplines will be key in making the most of the opportunities available. As always, our staff are here to support and guide students in growing and achieving their best.

With best wishes for a fulfilling and successful year ahead.

Dr Stephen Gough

Good morning teachers, parents and students. I am very grateful to be receiving this scholarship and to be named the 2024 Dux. To the Pollock family, thank you. Your ongoing commitment in assisting students who are pursuing their interests in science with a tertiary education, is honourable. I, and the wider school community, are appreciative of your financial support and more wholly your devotion to inspiring a culture of academic excellence in science at this school.

To the College executive, especially Dr Gough, Mrs Hughes, and the recently retired Mr Walsh, thank you for your consideration and generosity. I am appreciative of the guidance you have provided me and the time you have put in to encourage success both inside and outside of the classroom at this College.

To all my teachers since Year 7, thank you for the sacrifices you and your families have made to provide your students with a quality education, fostering our curiosity and challenging us to fulfill our potential.

Without diminishing my appreciation for all the teachers, there are a few I’d like to call out in particular. First up, my Accelerated Studies of Religion Teacher, Mrs Hughes, thank you for the countless hours of after school lessons and study periods you arranged for us in preparation for our HSC exam at the end of Year 11. The lessons that I gained from that class; the importance of hard work and the need to consistently seek feedback, had a huge impact on how I approached Year 12 and ultimately how I performed in the final exams across all subject areas.

To my Yr 11 and 12 science teachers, Mr O’Dea, Mrs Timmins and Mr Clarke, thank you for putting up with my relentless, and sometimes irrelevant, questioning. You have succeeded in cultivating my interest in science and I am sure my peers would say the same. I would also like to thank Mr Polidoro who I was lucky enough to have as a teacher for all my maths subjects from Yr10 to 12. You made the maths classroom an enjoyable space and were always willing to explain the same solution again for the people at the back of the class.

Whilst I am thanking people, I should probably also thank those that I have spent the most time around. To my parents and siblings, thank you for supporting me since birth, but especially throughout high school, and putting up with me during the late nights of last minute study and sometimes grumpiness the following day.

To my peers, the people who influenced my time at this school the most, thank you, and congratulations. It’s all over! We have accomplished so much together and I personally feel like I could have a genuine conversation with each and every person in our cohort. It is a testament to how close we became as a year group. The friendships I have made at this school will remain with me for many years to come. Well done to everyone here today and good luck with your future endeavours.

To the students still in school, I just want to emphasise how grateful I am to have been a student of the College, and want you boys to realise how fortunate you are to get an education here. Throughout my schooling I enjoyed participating at the various sporting carnivals, playing in the school AFL team, competing in Da Vinci Decathlon and being in the SRC in the senior years. The College provides a fantastic environment to not only develop your strengths but also to try out new things. My advice would be to make the most of it.

“A rising tide lifts all boats.” It’s a phrase which the teachers repeated constantly throughout Year 11 and 12. I understand what it is supposed to mean. The HSC is in many ways a team sport. It is Edmund Rice against all the other schools in NSW. The more willing you are to help each other the better the cohort will perform and ultimately the better each individual will perform in the HSC. However, I would add one caveat. A rising tide only lifts seaworthy boats, the sunken boats will only fall further beneath the surface. My advice to the boys in the junior years is to make sure your boats are shipshape now and take them for a test sail while you can. Get into good habits early so that as the pressure of school increases towards Year 12 you do not feel overwhelmed. I found that by maintaining a somewhat healthy lifestyle; a balance of exercise, school, friends and family – I could take my mind off schoolwork, maximise the effort that I could put in when studying, and just enjoy life in general.

I do not think there is any secret to doing well at school or in most things in life. You need to make the most of any opportunities that come your way – do not be afraid to give things a go, take some risks and push your boundaries. The harder you work the more successful you will be. Also, it is always easier to work hard on something if you enjoy what you are doing. Make a conscious choice to stay positive and see difficulties and challenges as just another part of the game. Standing back sometimes and looking past the next exam or assessment marking criteria and focusing on the satisfaction that you get from learning new things and solving hard problems was really helpful for me. During my time at Edmund Rice College I have been very fortunate and I’m very appreciative of all the opportunities I have had and the success I have achieved. I have however also come to realise that the most valuable and enjoyable aspects are not awards, high grades, sporting achievements or leadership positions themselves but rather the experiences they represent. At the end of the day it is more important to live a good life. Do your honest best in all things, pursue what is right and God will take care of the rest.

Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever.

Matthew Carolan

Welcome to the 2025 academic year, in particular I extend a very warm welcome to those families joining our community in 2025.

I take this opportunity to remind all members of our community of our commitment to Child Safety. We take very seriously the privilege of working together with you as parents/carers to ensure that your son experiences a strong sense of belonging, is safe and supported as a member of our community.

Student voice is highly valued in our community, we encourage the boys to speak up and assure you that we take any concerns raised by students or their families very seriously. In readiness for the commencement of the academic year our staff have undertaken a wide range of training including annual safeguarding training.

Communication is crucial to the success of our community and the College will always include parents in discussion pertaining to decisions that affect their sons, recognising the important role that all parents play in Child Safety.

College policies pertaining to Child Safety and the process for making complaints can be located on our College website – Our College – Reports and Policies.

When parents have concerns regarding their son’s wellbeing their first point of contact should ordinarily be your son’s Pastoral Care Teacher, in the event that the matter is of a sensitive nature it may be more appropriate to speak directly to your son’s Pastoral Coordinator or in more serious cases a member of the College Leadership Team.

For matters pertaining to academics the first point of contact should be your son’s subject teacher, if your concerns extend beyond one subject you are encouraged to contact your son’s Assistant Pastoral Care Coordinator who assumes responsibility for supporting students in the academic domain. If your question or concern is unable to be resolved with the classroom teacher please contact the Head of Department.

xxxxxx

Bus travel 2025

Families are reminded that students traveling on school sanctioned bus services must have a valid Opal card. Drivers have the authority to refuse travel if students do not have their Opal card or evidence that they have applied for one, the exception to this is for Year 7 students until the end of February. If your Son is not entitled to travel for free he is welcome to access these services with a child or concession Opal card.

Furthermore families are reminded that all students travelling to and from school are obliged to behave in accordance with expectations in relation to travel on public transport. These guidelines were developed to ensure the safety of all students travelling to and from school and are published on Page 20 of the College Diary. Disruptive and disrespectful behaviour not only demonstrates a disregard for the College, but compromises the safety of other students, the driver and those travelling on the roads during this time.

xxxxxx

We look forward to welcoming parents of Year 7 and 10 to our information evening on Wednesday February 12.

The Year 7 evening will commence promptly at 6pm in the ERC, following the plenary session Parents will move to their son’s Pastoral class to meet with their Son’s Pastoral Care teacher.

The Year 10 evening will commence at 7pm in the Pelin Hall.

Mrs Hughes
Acting Deputy Principal

The return to school is an exciting time for families and a chance to refresh and refine your parenting approach both online and offline. This year, we’ve partnered with Safe on Social to design practical and easy-to-implement tips that support your family’s digital safety. As part of this partnership, our whole school now has access to the Safe on Social Live Parent Library, a comprehensive toolkit filled with resources like cheat sheets and real-world videos. Learn more and access your 12-month subscription for free using the code KPERCPARENT100 here: Safe on Social Live Parent Library.

Here are a few tips top kick off the new year:

1. Always Ask Your Child’s Consent Before Taking or Sharing Their Photo
   Teach your child that they have control over their physical and digital presence. Before taking or sharing their photo, ask: “Can I take your picture? Do you like it? Can I share it on my Facebook etc?” This not only models respect for their boundaries but also teaches them to ask others before sharing photos or tagging people online.
2. Double-Check Privacy Settings Before Posting Online
   Before sharing back-to-school photos, review your social media privacy settings. Make sure only trusted friends and family can view your posts, and avoid sharing publicly. Avoid hashtags like #FirstDayOfSchool, which can attract unwanted attention. Please remind your parents of this if the grandparents are attending the school or sharing photos.
3. Avoid Posting School Uniform Photos
   School uniforms can reveal your child’s location. Instead, crop out identifying logos and backgrounds or opt for close-up shots to protect their privacy.
4. Other Kids in the Background
   Respect the privacy of other children. If your photo includes classmates, ask their parents for permission (even if they are good friends) before sharing or use editing tools to blur or crop them out. Avoid taking group photos at events like assemblies, as some children may be on no-publish lists.
5. Ask Before Sharing Photos of Teachers
   Teachers deserve privacy too. Always ask for their explicit permission before sharing a photo of them, and please respect their decision if they prefer not to be included.
6. Model Healthy After-School Habits
   Be present during pick-up and after-school time. Ask open-ended questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “What did you learn?” Make car rides device-free to create space for meaningful conversations.
7. Set a Back-to-School Tech Audit
   Review all devices your child uses at home. Update passwords, enable parental controls, and turn off location-sharing unless absolutely necessary.
8. Start a Family Tech-Free Zone Policy
   Create screen-free zones during key family moments like meals, car rides, and bedtime. Use this time to connect with your children without distractions no scrolling while they’re talking about their day!
9. Prioritise Sleep Over Screens
   Late-night scrolling, gaming, or group chat messages can disrupt sleep. Establish a “device curfew” at least an hour before bed and consider setting rules like no devices in bedrooms or bathrooms.
10. Talk About Social Media Comparison
    Discuss how social media often shows highlight reels, not reality. Say things like, “Isn’t it fun to see everyone’s first day? Just remember, these are the moments people choose to share there’s so much we don’t see.” This helps kids develop a healthy perspective and avoid comparisons.
11. Respect Teacher and Staff Boundaries
    Avoid contacting teachers outside of school hours unless it’s urgent. Use official school communication channels to respect their personal time.
12. Share Achievements Thoughtfully
    While celebrating your child’s accomplishments is exciting, be mindful of how it might affect others. Sometimes private celebrations are the most meaningful.
13. Teach Online Stranger Danger
    Remind your child never to share personal information with strangers on apps, games, or social platforms. Warn them about joining large, location-based groups like Gold Coast-wide accounts on Snapchat or TikTok, as these can be toxic and unsafe. Ensure they understand how to disable features like SnapMap to keep their location private. Detailed instructions are available in the Safe on Social Parent Resource.
14. Schedule Check-Ins
    Make time to talk with your kids about their experiences online and offline. Create a safe, judgment-free space where they can share anything that makes them feel uncomfortable or confused. Reassure them they can always come to you for help without fear of punishment.
15. Encourage Offline Friendships
    With so much time spent online, encourage face-to-face catch ups, family outings, and community activities. Teach your kids the value of real-world relationships and even how to make a phone call instead of relying solely on texts.
    By taking these small but impactful steps, you’ll help your child start the school year safely, confidently, and with a strong foundation for success both online and offline.
    We encourage students and parents to discuss pages 21 to 23 of the Student Diary regarding the Acceptable Use of ICT at the College. Parents are then asked to sign their student’s diary (Years 7-10) to acknowledge this discussion on Page 23.

Mr Sirianni
Director of Information Technologies and Innovation

The Parent Orbit app is now ready for you to download and use!

To download the app:

1. Go to: https://parentorbit.page.link/erc You’ll be directed to the Apple or Google store. (NOTING: This will only work on phones only.)
2. Click the Install button. After the app is installed, our school will be loaded as an account.
3. Click on the school name then tap the login button.
4. Enter your Parent Lounge credentials onto the login screen that appears.
5. If you are asked to enter a school code, please enter erc.
6. You are now ready to check out our new app.

How do I get assistance with any issues I have using the app?

If you have any issues with installing, logging into, or using Parent Orbit, please contact us here: helpdesk@erc.nsw.edu.au

Feature of the Parent Orbit App

Below is a list of features that you will find when browsing the app.

Homepage

The homepage will contain key information to keep you up to date on your student’s school day.

Push Notifications / Notification History

Schools will be able to send targeted notifications via the app, so that parents are only alerted to information that’s relevant to their child e.g., Extra-Curricular practice. You’ll also be able to acknowledge notifications and view and search notification history.

Attendance & Absences

Parents will be able to acknowledge and submit absences, as well as view the attendance history for their child on the go, making it easier for schools to ensure they have accurate and up-to-date information on student whereabouts.

Student Details

Parents will be able to view their student’s information including General information, MCEECDYA information, View and Update Medical Details, Illness Log records, Extra-Curricular History, Email Class Teachers, View and download Academic Reports, and any other additional customised data the school has made available.

Calendars

Parents will get access to their child’s electronic diary, as a day or month view, to keep up to date with their children’s activities. This includes a multi-student view for parents and the ability to include/exclude different calendar feeds.

Accounts

Parents will have the ability to access and make payments for School Fees and Events & Payments via links to Parent Lounge.

Parent Profile

Parents will be able to view their personal details, address information and login history, as well as submit updates to the address blocks. This will allow you to make sure that the school always has the most up to date and accurate information for contacting you, as well as provide you the ability to review what your account has been accessed.

Mr Sirianni
Director of Information Technologies & Innovation

Welcome back to the 2025 school year!

Once again this year the Library and teaching staff will be running Homework Club after school Monday – Friday 2:05 pm – 2:55 pm. This is a great opportunity for students to complete any assigned work, organise to check in with a specific teacher for support, or work on any collaborative experiences with their peers that have been assigned to them.

From Week 3 (February 10th) students in all year groups are welcome to stay and dedicate some additional time to their learning. All students are required to sign in on arrival and complete school work whilst they are in attendance.

We look forward to working with many of your sons throughout the year.

Mr Hughes
Director of Learning & Teaching

It has been wonderful to see students return to start the new year appearing to be very relaxed and keen to achieve their best learning in 2025. This week, students have begun the process of achieving their potential by setting personal learning goals for this term.

Year 9, 10 and 11 Elective Courses

Students are settling into their electives and parents and students are reminded that the deadline for course change requests is next Friday, 14 February in Week 2. This is to ensure all students are settled into their respective classes by Week 3 as required.

Students Online Accounts

Year 11 and 12 parents are reminded to please check with your son that he has activated his Students Online account. This is necessary for students to access important NESA communications including their Record of School Achievement (ROSA )and HSC credentials.

Year 10 students will also be required to activate their Students Online accounts in due course, after they receive an email from NESA inviting them to do so later this term.

Year 10 Parent Information Evening

On Wednesday, 12 February important NESA ROSA assessment information will be shared with parents, carers and students at the Year 10 Parent Information Evening. We look forward to having all Year 10 students with at least one parent or carer, attend this important information evening to receive important information regarding a number of changes to College assessment requirements in Years 10 in accordance with NESA requirements.

Mrs Bell
Director of Studies

Are you learning an instrument or eager to refine your musical skills?

The Year 7 and 8 Music Clubs are the perfect place for students with a musical background to practice, improve, and collaborate with like-minded musicians! Whether you prefer to work independently or alongside others, this club provides a supportive environment to enhance your performance skills.

Spots are limited, so don’t miss out! If you’re interested, complete the Google Form as soon as possible to register your interest. LINK – https://forms.gle/X1xRLVdWRdCWEX3s8

Sessions will be held once a week on Fridays at lunchtimes. Year 7 in G1 and Year 8 in G2. Feel free to come along to enquire.

Take your music to the next level—join the Year 7 or 8 Music Club today!

Mr Bonaccorso and Mr Haybittle

“What is a Peripatetic Program and What Could It Mean for Your Child’s Education?”

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are thrilled to announce the continuation of our Peripatetic Music Program throughout 2025! This program remains instrumental in nurturing our students’ musical talents and fostering their growth, and we are excited to witness its ongoing success this year.

For those unfamiliar, peripatetic lessons entail private instrumental instruction conducted during the school day. This unique setup means that students can conveniently receive music education right here on campus, eliminating the need for separate arrangements outside of school hours. By integrating these lessons seamlessly into our schedule, we save valuable time for both students and parents, sparing them the inconvenience of traveling to and from external music lessons.

We are seeking students who are interested in learning the following instruments: Guitar, Piano, Brass, Drums

For further information about the Peripatetic Music Program please complete the following Expression of interest form 

We encourage all interested students to seize this wonderful opportunity to explore the world of music and nurture their musical abilities.

Mr Haybittle
Music Teacher
ghaybittle@erc.nsw.edu.au

Are you in Year 10 or 11 and have a passion for media and engaging conversations? The College Podcast – The Rice Bowl is looking for confident, enthusiastic, and creative students to join the team for Season 2 !

What Does a Podcast Host Do?

As a host, you’ll be the voice of the podcast – interviewing guests, leading discussions, and keeping our audience engaged. It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop your communication skills, work as part of a team, and be part of an exciting media project that reaches the entire school community.

What We’re Looking For

To be considered, you should:

• Have strong communication and presentation skills
• Be confident and engaging in front of a microphone
• Work well in a team and take direction
• Show enthusiasm and creativity in content delivery
• Be committed to attending planning and recording sessions

Limited Positions Available – Apply Now!

A limited number of hosting spots are available, and candidates will be selected by a panel. If you’re interested, complete the Expression of Interest form before the deadline:

📅 Entries close on Friday, 21st February.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of something amazing. Submit your application today and take your place behind the mic!

You can catch up on Season 1 Episodes on Spotify via the following LINK

Mr Bonaccorso

The Creative Arts Faculty is very excited about the opportunities on offer to our students in 2025. We have a variety of Clubs for the students to join to extend their interest in the Creative Arts as well as some wonderful new initiatives which will be announced in future newsletters. Stay tuned!

If your son is interested in joining one of our after-school clubs, please ask him to see one of the visual arts teachers so we can issue the permission note. These clubs will commence in Week 4.

Visual Arts / Ceramics Club – Monday Afternoon 2.15- 2.55pm J5 Mr Tognetti.

This club is for students interested in extending their visual arts and ceramics skills. Students will concentrate on drawing, painting and ceramics with both hand building and wheel work. This is a very popular club, so your son is encouraged to join as soon as possible to guarantee a place.

Film Club – Monday Afternoon 2.15-2.55pm J3 Mrs Rampe

This club is for students interested in making short films, writing scripts, learning to edit and working collaboratively. Students who are interested in drama and acting are also encouraged to join as cast members. Students use professional film making equipment and work collaboratively to create short films which are entered into external competitions. This is a very popular club, so your son is encouraged to join as soon as possible to guarantee a place.

Years 7 and 8 Photography Club Wednesday Afternoon – J3 Ms Costello

This club is for students who are interested in photography and wish to improve their compositions and skills. Students will investigate pin hole cameras and photograph with film cameras and learn to process their own films. They will then learn to use the DSLR camera and create compositions which explore fast and slow shutter speeds. Students will learn editing skills and can print their work for exhibition. This club is limited to 20 students.

Ms Costello
Creative and Performing Arts Coordinator

Think your band has what it takes to rock the stage? Get ready for the College Battle of the Bands, happening on Founder’s Day – March 28th! This is your chance to showcase your talent, compete for glory, and bring the crowd to life.

Keep an eye on the daily announcements in the coming weeks for the registration form and details on how to enter. Don’t miss out—gather your bandmates, tune your instruments, and get ready to battle! 🎶🔥

Mr Bonaccorso

Welcome to 2025 at Edmund Rice College!

The Pastoral team has thoroughly enjoyed welcoming students back to school over the past two weeks, including our enthusiastic group of 178 Year 7 students. We’re thrilled to have them join the Edmund Rice family and look forward to a fantastic year of learning. Thank you to all families for supporting us in ensuring the boys returned well-attired and ready to learn.

A special thank you to our Pastoral Coordinators for their hard work and preparation in ensuring a smooth start to the year. The week-long Year 7 transition program, thanks to the extraordinary efforts of Mr Ben Bourke and Mrs Amy Field, was a resounding success. We also extend our gratitude to our Year 11 Peer Support Leaders, who played a vital role in the program’s facilitation. Ms Karina Tomasi, Mrs Jessica Haines (Student Leader Facilitators), Mr Patrick Preeo (Pastoral Coordinator Year 11), and the team of teachers involved deserve immense credit. Congratulations and thank you to the Year 11 students for generously giving their time to support our Year 7 students – you did an outstanding job!

Partnering with Parents for Student Success

One of our greatest privileges is working in partnership with parents to support each boy in becoming the best version of himself. To further strengthen this important relationship, we are pleased to announce our continued partnerships with the My Strengths Team and Happy Families (formerly Parenting Ideas) in 2025.

• Happy Families: Access the first article for 2025 and other resources via the Edmund Rice College login: https://schools.happyfamilies.com.au/login/erc PASSWORD: happyerc
• Counselor Contributions: Our counselors will also be contributing regularly to the College newsletter, sharing valuable insights and advice on supporting boys.
• Catholic Care Parenting Courses: Catholic Care offers a range of online and in-person parenting courses designed to address various challenges faced by parents. Find more information HERE:
• Illawarra Shoalhaven School Link: This is another valuable resource that facilitates collaboration between education, health, and other services to support school-aged children and young people’s mental health and engagement in education:
• My Strengths Parenting Courses: We strongly encourage families to take advantage of the free My Strengths Parenting Courses available to ERC families. Visit, here find “my school,” select Edmund Rice College, and scroll down to access and register for the course.

Term 1 Pastoral Program Highlights

Our Term 1 Pastoral program offers a variety of opportunities for students, including:

• Setting SMART goals for Semester 1
• Celebrating the achievements of the graduating class of 2024
• College Opening Mass
• College Assembly
• Easter Liturgy
• Commencement of the Outdoor Education program, with Year 7 camps in Week 4 at Cataract.

Student Wellbeing Initiatives

Throughout the year, Senior Constable Jo Cummins, our Youth Engagement Officer, and her team will address students in Years 7-12 on a range of important topics, including:

• Respectful Relationships
• Social Media & Cyber Bullying
• Anti-Violence
• Domestic Violence
• Young People & the Law
• E-Bikes & Scooters
• Driving Responsibly

Other initiatives will include sessions facilitated by our College Counselors, House-based activities, Peer Support activities for Year 7, and cohort liturgical celebrations.
We look forward to a successful and fulfilling year for all members of the Edmund Rice College community.

Mr Bates
Acting Director of Pastoral Care & Wellbeing

As our Year 12 cohort begins their final year, it is important that they take this start as an opportunity to reflect on their learning strengths but also identify and address areas of improvement to maximise their success in the HSC.

On Friday, the day of return, our Year 12 students gathered for their first assembly of the year. This assembly was a moment to set the tone for the year. During this assembly, I spoke to our young men about my role in supporting them in their learning but also the importance of making a strong start through reflection and action. The boys were encouraged to consider the following key areas contributing to their performance:

1. Motivation and Goals: Setting achievable goals and maintaining motivation is crucial. Whilst it is easy to set goals, maintaining them is another story. Students were encouraged to think about barriers against motivation and how they can stay committed to their academic goals this year.
2. Organisation and Routine: As Henry Ford famously said, “If you always do what you always did, you’ll always get what you always got.” This statement was used to emphasise how a simple change of habit or routine could make a significant improvement to each student’s success. Examples of changes might be meeting once a week with a fellow student to study a chosen subject or practicing a set number of past examinations each fortnight.
3. Study Strategies: Research shows that how a student studies is a stronger predictor of results than IQ. Students were invited to reflect on the way in which they study and consider exploring different active and engaging study techniques that they may find more effective than their current method.
4. Exam Strategy: Whilst knowledge is important, exam strategy can often be a differentiator in results between two students with similar understanding.

At Edmund Rice College, we are committed to supporting our Year 12 students throughout this critical year, and as Assistant Pastoral Coordinator, my role is to assist students in their learning. In addition to this, the Assistant Pastoral Coordinators for each year group from Year 7 to 11 also provide support and mentoring to their students, focusing on appropriate areas of development relevant to their year of learning.

For parents and caregivers of Year 12 students, if you feel your son would benefit from additional support in any of the above-mentioned areas, please do not hesitate to contact me. Likewise, any Year 12 student who would like guidance is encouraged to reach out via email or in person.

We look forward to another successful and productive year ahead for our students.

Mr Breeze
Year 12 Assistant Pastoral Coordinator

We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the following students on their induction into the Years 10 and 11 Student Representative Council for 2025:

Year 11 Prefectures:

• Liturgy: Christian Yeo
• Wellbeing: Nate Jennett
• First Nations: Stirling Roper
• Social Justice: Harrison Macdonald
• ERA for Change: Deni Dimov
• Community and Culture: Christiano Haddad
• Sustainability: Dante Hernandez
• Sport: Nicholas Aivaliotis

House Representatives:

• Keira: Oliver Hasham
• Rice: Rhys Barnes
• Ignatius: Riley Edgar
• Crown: Asher Percival
• McMahon: Tyler Boggiss
• Waterford: Nathan Mihalopoulos

Year 10 Prefectures:

• Liturgy: Bowen Saunders
• Wellbeing: Jasper Jacobs
• First Nations: Baxter Roper
• Social Justice: Harrison Chapman
• ERA for Change: Zeke Thompson
• Community and Culture: Jaxon Towers
• Sustainability: Mitchell Wilson
• Sport: Leo Halios-Lewis

House Representatives:

• Keira: Patrick Smith
• Rice: Nathan Washbourne
• Ignatius: Noah Burrows
• Crown: Callum Cooney
• McMahon: Harrison Placek
• Waterford: Dimitrios Stratis

Dear Parents and Carers,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2025 Academic Year at Edmund Rice College. A particularly warm welcome is extended to the new students and their families who have joined the Year 9 cohort and the broader Edmund Rice community. We hope this year will be one of refinement – an opportunity to learn from past challenges and foster growth academically, spiritually, and emotionally.

Earlier this week, I sent a Welcome Letter to our Year 9 parents and guardians. I encourage you to take the time to review this letter, as it contains important dates and key staff contacts who may be of assistance throughout the year.

I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the following students on their induction into the Year 9 Student Representative Council for 2025:

Prefectures:

• Liturgy: Federico Senise
• Wellbeing: Malachy Hurley
• First Nations: Nate Russell
• Social Justice: Sahil Naidu
• ERA for Change: Calvin Perkiss
• Community and Culture: Lincoln Woods
• Sustainability: Luca Thomas
• Sport: Stefen Anagnostopolous

House Representatives:

• Keira: Nash Ferguson
• Rice: Jacob Austin
• Ignatius: Ash Anderson
• Crown: Sam Shaw
• McMahon: Jadsyn Sellick-Fleuren
• Waterford: Seth Momirovski

Mr Crapis and I look forward to working closely with you and your sons throughout 2025. Strong partnerships and open communication will be key to fostering both individual and collective success for our Year 9 students. We sincerely appreciate your ongoing support and encouragement in guiding your sons on their educational journey.

Kind Regards,
Mr Panozzo // Mr Crapis
Acting Pastoral Care Coordinator // Assistant Pastoral Care Coordinator

All Year 8 students are to be congratulated for the manner in which they have returned to the College for the 2025 academic year. This morning during our High Achievers Assembly members of the Year 8 Student Representative Council were officially inducted into their leadership role. Congratulations to the following students:

• ERA for Change: Zachariah Crook
• Social Justice: Mihir Aurangabadkur
• Liturgy: Daniel Carolan
• First Nations: Rylan Griffiths
• Community & Culture: Jaffer Al Shididi
• Sustainability: Jayden Cheema
• Sustainability: Grady Farrugia
• Wellbeing: Gwil Barnes
• Justice and Solidarity: Nikolas Todorov
• Sport: Darcy Stepanovski
• Waterford House: Bryce Crimmins
• Rice House: Claude Vincent
• Ignatius House: Ryan Yeo
• Crown House: Ryan Thai
• McMahon House: Nino Todorov
• Keira House: Alexander Torta

Finally, all students in Year 8 successfully completed their academic and wellbeing goals for Semester One this morning. The entire Year 8 Pastoral Care team will be working hard supporting each member of the Year 8 cohort in achieving their goals this semester.

Mr Marsh & Ms Stella
Year 8 Pastoral Coordinator & Year 8 Assistant Coordinator

These awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the people and organisations who make our city a better place and made an amazing contribution to the community. This year is was my great pleasure to nominate Patrick Sirianni from the class of 2024 for his outstanding achievement is the daily leadership shown in support of others and the community. This is Patrick’s outstanding commitment; he is always ready and willing to use his skills to support others. Examples of his efforts are as follows:

• Playing trumpet for a variety of music days and school visits including ERC Stage Band
• Playing the Last post many times at College ANZAC assemblies and Wollongong RSL community ANZAC Day, Vietnam Veterans Ceremonies
• Legacy Luncheon
• Provided younger students free trumpet lessons
• Contributed to collating Zonta Birthing kits
• Raised funds for SAHSSI and Wollongong Homeless Hub and Vinnies Winter Sleetout
• Senior Project STEM program leader at St Brigid’s Primary School
• Completed Refugee Ration Pack Challenge several years, raising money for refugees
• Setting up and help organising whole school assemblies
• Conservatorium of Music: school holiday music lessons to students with special needs
• Peer Support program
• Try year 7 for a Day – tour guide, set up, band performances
• IFTAR Dinner, promoting inclusive community
• Assisting elderly neighbours with home chores

Congratulations on being nominated Patrick, that in itself is an achievement. Good luck for your future endeavours.

Mrs Schodde
CSL Coordinator

Congratulations go out to Year 12, the class of 2025 on the completion of their Senior CSL Project. Students contributed to the communities to which they belong in the spirit of justice, love and compassion not because they ‘have’ to, but because it lies at the heart of an Edmund Rice Education. Students were asked to reflect and advocate for their organisation or agency throughout their Service and through a written reflection upon completion.

One of the reflection questions asked: ‘What were your expectations?’ Jonah Eglitis wrote; ‘It was my first time doing something like this, so I was not sure what to expect, but after my first time at the Lighthouse Kitchen I was changed, it gave me a different perspective of life, because I got to see an insight into peoples lives that are less fortunate than myself.’ This sums up why ERC Senior CSL Project is so important for our students holistic education.

Mrs Schodde
CSL Coordinator

Disabled Surfers Association South Coast

Volunteers Needed: Gerroa ‘Smiles on Dials’ surf day, Sunday 23rd February 2025

Various jobs available on the day both In and Out of the water. Just ask at the sign in tent on arrival. For more information look at the flyer below and register.

Mrs Schodde
CSL Coordinator

2025 NSWCCC Sport registrations are now open. Students wishing to trial for the various NSWCCC individual pathways, please see the information attached.

Please note that before registering for Rugby League, Open’s Football, Cross Country, Swimming, Touch Football and Athletic pathways, students will need to be selected in the Wollongong Diocesan Team first.

Key ERC sport dates, events and information are also on the attached flyer. Trials for ERC College teams will commence early in Term 1, students will be notified via email with further information.

Nominations for the upcoming swimming carnival will be sent out at the start of Week 1 – students must complete their nomination before Friday 9th February. Note – the swimming carnival is a competitors only carnival.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at the College.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

TEACHING SCHOLARSHIP

We are incredibly proud to celebrate three outstanding ERC graduating students from the Class of 2024 who have each been awarded a prestigious ‘Step into Teaching’ scholarship from the Catholic Education Office, Wollongong.
We have no doubt that in the true spirit of Edmund Rice, Matthew Marning, Samuel Corvalan and Alby Ferguson will make wonderful teachers. This well-deserved recognition highlights their passion for education, commitment to Catholic values, and dedication to shaping the minds of future generations. As they embark on their journey to become teachers, we know they will make a profound impact on the lives of many.
Join us in congratulating them on this amazing achievement!

xxxxxx

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

PROCEDURES FOR PARENTS / CARERS

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, 30 and 31.

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.

******

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.