Dear parents and carers,

As a College community, may we keep Year 12 students in our thoughts and prayers during their current HSC examinations. We pray that their efforts will be richly rewarded in producing their very best over the coming weeks.

A Prayer for our HSC Students
Lord, pour out your Spirit of Wisdom on our Year 12 students,
help them to remain calm and confident in their HSC exams,
to attend carefully to the questions asked, to think clearly,
to remember accurately, and to express themselves well.

Grant that they may reflect on the best of the learning they
have done and the best of the teaching they have received
from their teachers and extended school community.

May your love be upon them, O Lord, as they place all their trust in you.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen

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NESA have informed us that an incredible 29 ERC students have been nominated for consideration in Shape 2023. Shape is an annual exhibition of exemplary Major Projects developed by HSC Design and Technology, Industrial Technology and Textiles and Design students. To have so many student nominations for ‘Shape 2023’ is an absolute credit to Mr Andrew Edmondson (Head of Technologies) and his hardworking team for the many long hours they have each dedicated to their students.

Congratulations to to the following students:

Shape 2023 Nominations:
Caleb Barnes, Jack Bosevski, Izac Cain, Benjamin Caroutas, Mehmed Ceylan, Ty-Ali Conley, Beau Devlin, Lachlan Flood, Kyler Green, Lachlan Hope, Callum McEnearney, Jude Nunes, Bailey Oliveira, Max Pogson, Callum Rogers, Nicholas Shalala, Blake Sharman, Anthony Stefanou, Ethan Tobin, Adrian Ugrinovski, Tayne Ward, Riley Weston, Ben Cavdarovski, Austin David, Josh Hayes, Nahni Meafou, Luca Piacentin, Jack Simmonds, Sean Staniforth.

HSC Major Projects 2023 – Industrial Technology Display Book

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Earlier this week, our Year 11 students participated in the Senior School Retreat Program at various conference venues. Thank you to Mrs Judith Hurley for her meticulous planning and the many teachers who generously gave of their time to facilitate sessions. These senior retreats have once again been a significant experience for our students as they take the opportunity to reflect and continue to nurture their spirituality.

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World Teachers’ Day is an opportunity to celebrate our teachers and their significant contributions each year. Through their dedication, innovation, and resilience, I acknowledge all ERC teachers and the critical role they each play in helping build promising futures for the next generation. On behalf of the ERC teachers, I am grateful to the Parents and Friends Association for the morning tea supplied earlier today.

While many individual examples highlight the professional learning community that is ERC, I share with you just some of the recent achievements of the following teachers who continue to flourish in their fields of expertise:

• Congratulations to Ms Melissa Kennedy (Head of English), who has recently published her book ‘The Sustainable Teacher’ through Amba Press.
• Mr Andrew Brooks (Head of Vocational Education & Training) was recognised as the Diocesan ‘Manufacturing and Engineering VET Trainer of the Year.’ He also represented ERC and the broader profession at the recent Senate Inquiry into VET offerings across Australia.
• Dr Gerry Sozio (Director of Learning and Teaching) and Mrs Jodie Hughes (Director of Pastoral Care) presented in their respective fields at the National EREA Wellbeing and Learning Conference held in Brisbane at the end of last term.
• Mr Donovan Pierro was awarded the Diocesan ‘Hospitality: Food and Beverage VET Trainer of the Year.’
• Mrs Helen Lothian (Head of Humanities) received a Certificate of Excellence from the Hon Matt Keogh MP, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence, in recognition of her facilitation of students marking the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
• The Catholic Education Office commended Mrs Diane Schodde for her skills as a ‘Retail Services VET Trainer.’

Every one of our teachers is a lifelong learner who goes beyond the call of duty for their students. Many of our teachers are highly experienced HSC markers, while others continue to expand their knowledge and skills through postgraduate study and research. As we approach World Teachers’ Day, and on your behalf, I sincerely thank our teachers for sharing their gifts with our community.

May our patron, Blessed Edmund Rice, in the spirit of Jesus, continue to guide and inspire each of us.

Best wishes,
Stephen Gough

MOBILE PHONE POLICY

A reminder that ERC has always had in place a Mobile Phone Policy (page 26 Student Diary) clearly outlined and for the vast majority of our students this policy is adhered to on a daily basis. Those students who struggle to follow this process will continue to receive a College detention and in extreme cases may be required to lock their phone away in the morning and collect it at the end of the school day. The recent decision of NSW public secondary school students being banned from using mobile phones at school from the beginning of this term, has always been the case here at ERC. The students are already in the practice of not using their phones unless directed to by their teacher for learning purposes during school hours, including recess and lunch breaks.

Mr Walsh
College Deputy Principal

Year 11 Reports were published last Friday. It was wonderful to see the many parents and carers who attended the Parent/ Student/Teacher Conferences on Thursday, 19th October. Many valuable insights into your sons’ progress and effort and approach to learning, as well as advice for their continued success and/or improvement as they move into their HSC studies were shared. We look forward to celebrating the outstanding academic achievements of this Year Group in their Preliminary Courses at the Year 11 Academic Awards Assembly next Tuesday.

Years 7 – 10 Semester 2 Examinations

As we move towards the end of year assessment period for Years 7-10 students, parents and carers are asked to support their sons’ academic success by encouraging them to complete the necessary revision to do their best in this upcoming examination period. Students should now be be preparing summary notes and starting to revise their classwork.

A copy of the Year 7 -10 Semester 2 Examinations schedule is attached to this Newsletter.

Homework Club

A reminder that the Homework Club provides an excellent opportunity for students to revise and receive help with their learning in the College library after school. The Narandha Learning Centre is open from 7:30am – 3:30pm each day. Teachers are available for support from 2:05 – 3:00pm.

Mrs Bell
Director of Studies

Our Year 12 students have been sitting Higher School Certificate examinations over the last week and a half. We continue to keep them in our prayers as they continue to sit exams in the coming weeks.

Students in Years 7 to 10 have examination blocks coming up. Below are some strategies to support students in preparing for these.

We also wish our students travelling to Melbourne who will be competing in the Tournament of the Minds International Finals every success. This incredible achievement reflects their commitment and hard work. We eagerly await the results, which will be featured in our next newsletter.

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Strategies To Support Studying For Tests

Considerable research has explored strategies that are most likely to lead to long-term learning. Among these strategies, two have emerged as effective: retrieval practice and distributed practice.

Retrieval practice centres on the concept of students actively generating responses to questions, which can encompass a range of exercises such as revisiting past exam papers, tackling multiple-choice questions or engaging with practice essay questions. Distributed practice, on the other hand, encourages students to disperse their learning efforts and periodically revisit the material across multiple study sessions. This approach proves invaluable in enhancing the retention and comprehension of the subject matter. Another effective strategy is interleaved practice, which involves mixing up the types of problems students work on.

Following is a checklist to help your son identify and improve his study habits:

• Make Notes Regularly: Instead of cramming studying into the last-minute, make it a habit to make study notes regularly.
• Plan Ahead: Don’t wait until the last moment to finish your study notes. Start early, so you have ample time to review and understand the material thoroughly.
• Create Organised Study Notes: Create structured and easily digestible study notes. Use headings, bullet points, and diagrams to make notes visually appealing and comprehensible.
• Use Active Learning: Don’t just passively read notes. Test yourself on the material to gauge your understanding. Use flashcards, quizzes, or teaching the topic to someone else. Active learning reinforces memory and comprehension.
• Use Diverse Study Techniques: Don’t rely on a single study technique. Experiment with various methods like mind maps, mnemonic devices, or group study sessions. Explore what works best for you and adapt your study routine accordingly.
• Simulate Exam Conditions: Practice under realistic conditions. Set a timer at home when doing questions, avoid looking at notes and simulate the exam environment as closely as possible.

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Study Samurai Library

All families have access to the Study Samurai Library. The Study Samurai Library includes the Study Skills Module website which provides advice and resources on developing essential skills for academic success. To access the Study Samurai Library website, go to www.studysamurailibrary.com and login with these details:

Username: edmundrice
Password: 13achieve

Take time as a family on the Practice Methods topic in the Performance module. Click here to access the resources.

Dr Sozio
Director of Learning & Teaching

In 2024, students in Year 7 and Year 9 will be the first cohorts to experience the new NSW English Syllabus.

Planning of the new 7-10 English Syllabus is well-underway with staff working collaboratively to write new programs that will continue to engage and challenge our students. While implementing a new syllabus requires a considerable amount of time, staff are using this as an opportunity to refine and consider new ways to deliver the content and research new texts and methods of teaching.

Under the new syllabus, there has been a reduction in content focus allowing a stronger emphasis on the three areas of: reading, viewing and listening to texts; understanding and responding to texts; and expressing ideas and composing texts.

Despite the changes, many aspects of English remain constant. Students will continue to engage with a variety of texts (eg. novels, poetry, drama and film) which represent a range of cultural and social perspectives from Australia and across the globe, and periods in history. The aim is to always support

“students to understand the way language and text shape their understanding of their self and the world and refines the way they relate and communicate with others. Students’ intellectual, social and emotional development is supported to empower them to express their identities, personal values and ethics. This helps students become confident communicators, critical and imaginative thinkers, and informed and active participants.” English Teachers Association

The new syllabus for Year 7 and Year 9 will begin in 2024, while Year 8 and Year 10 will start in 2025.

A new syllabus for Year 11 and 12 is also about to be released for consultation by the NSW Government this month. This is expected to be implemented with Year 11 in 2026.

Mrs Guest
Assistant Head of English

On the second-to-last day of Term 3, the Year 9 Music class impressed the audience gathered outside the music rooms during their lunchtime concert, aptly named ‘Extravaganza on the Narandha Verandah.’ This event highlighted the remarkable talent of these young musicians, showcasing a diverse repertoire that ranged from classical compositions to heavy metal. While this event featured the Year 9 Music class, Flint from Year 7 delivered a special guest performance, playing the virtuosic piece ‘Rush E’ on the piano. Congratulations to all the participants, and thanks to the staff and students who supported them leading up to and during this event.

Click the links below to view the video recordings of each performance.

• Nicholas – “Toxicity”
• Stirling, James, Caelan, Nicholas and Aaron – “Treaty”
• William, Xavier and Zac – “Viva la Vida”
• James, Caelan and Dante – “Virtual Insanity”
• James, Caelan and Dante – “James’ Composition”
• Jaeden – “Bohemian Rhapsody”
• Stirling, James, Caelan, Dante and Aaron “Sweet Home Chicago”
• Flint – “Rush E”

Mr Haybittle
Music Teacher

October is Mental Health Month is a chance to consider, promote, and participate in activities and ideas that can have a positive impact on our daily lives and the lives of others. The theme for this year is “We all have a role to play”.

WayAhead is a Mental Health Association that works to educate people throughout New South Wales and beyond on mental health and wellbeing and link them to services and resources that improve their mental health. They suggest that the following roles are important roles to play in the promotion of positive mental health. Which role do you or could you play?

Incredible Individuals

• Take charge – of your mental health.
• Take timeout- in nature, hobby, activities away from the computer and your desk.
• Make a study plan and act on it – make a list. Plan in bite size chunks, this will help your stress levels.
• Challenge your thinking – if your friend was feeling the same level of stress you are, what advice would you give to them?
• Remember- not all stress is bad. Stress as a motivating force is positive. If it gets to be an overwhelming emotion, seek help.
• Use breathing techniques for emotional regulation – this helps manage the flight or fight response our body’s way of helping us deal with threats or danger.
• Fuel your body – good food, quality rest, stay active.

Amazing Allies

• Talk about it- remember, you’re not in it alone • Share – the experience with your friends who are going through the same experience
• Be supportive – of one another
• Reach out -seek help from one of the mental health services available
• Make gratitude or affirmation cards – for your friends

Prized Parents & Families

• Check in – ask open ended questions
• Support- Sometimes just sitting with someone, acknowledging their feelings and not try to problem solve is the best way to help.
• Make sure your children know about resources and services available.
• Show- that it’s OK to take charge of your mental health and reach out to a professional.
• Make family self-care a priority.

Remember if you have concerns about your son’s mental health please reach out to either myself or your son’s Pastoral Coordinator who can put you in touch with the College Counsellors or other support services. A reminder to parents who may be seeking some additional support to visit the MyStrengths parenting courses available free of charge to ERC parents https://mystrengths-parenting.mykajabi.com/ERC.

Mrs Hughes
Director of Pastoral Care & Wellbeing

Commendation Level

This week we acknowledged another group of Year 7 students who have achieved Commendation Level. It is always terrific news to acknowledge and reward students who are consistently achieving success and displaying a positive attitude across all facets of school life. In the busyness of our everyday lives, we sometimes forget to highlight and recognise these wonderful achievements.

Matthew Davis, Luca Gatmaitan, Eamon Hinds, Malachy Hurley, Jermaine McGuinness, James Milsom, Jacob Patterson, Zachary Pretzler, Damon Soccorsi, Jeremiah Waqabaca

While there have been some students who could have made better choices this year, we are reminded that we all make mistakes and learn from them. So I encourage every student to think before you say or do something. If you are unsure, always discuss with someone who can offer you support or wise counsel.

Youth Engagement Office Conversation on Bullying

Last week we took the opportunity to invite Senior Constable Kate Gandy, our local command Youth Engagement Officer to the College to discuss young people’s rights, responsibilities and where they stand in the legal sense.

Management Skills

This week in our Extended Pastoral Care lesson, and in the lead up to our upcoming assessment period, Year 7 students engaged in an important lesson on time management skills. This invaluable skill allowed our Year 7 students the ability to optimise their schedules and form a positive balance between school work and personal life. Students were challenged to take a closer look at how they use their time, reflect and collaborate with their classmates and pastoral care teacher on how they can improve their daily routines. It is our hope that some of the skills and scheduling that the Year 7 students learnt about during this time will help relieve some pressure and stress during the upcoming assessment period.

Finally as we move into our final term may we encourage all students to use the information that is being provided to assist you to manage the last weeks of term to focus on your classwork, manage and prepare to complete the last few assessment items and begin to prepare to look over any topics that will be examined in the end of term examinations that will commence in Week 7. A reminder to a number of students who have not completed or recorded their CSL Hours that this needs to be completed before the end of Week 6.

Mr Bates and Mr Panozzo
Year 7 Pastoral Care Coordinators.

Over the past fortnight, Years 7 and 10 have been presented to by the local Police Youth Engagement Officer on the topic of bullying. Students were briefed on their responsibilities and legalities, along with the process of investigation into an act or suspicion of bullying. The presentation was grounded in real-world experiences, referencing recent examples and outcomes to provide context on this important issue and promote a sense of responsibility and respect within the Edmund Rice and wider communities. Below is one student’s own reflection on what was presented and its benefits for the student body of ERC:

In the recent police talk on 17 October 2023, I learnt many valuable things that I was able to take away from it. Before the presentation, I thought that bullying was just a negative act in society. I learnt that bullying is also illegal. I also learnt that harassment has many stages and there are different types of harassment, for example, physical, verbal, cyber, sexual and psychological.

To add, I learnt the different penalties that come with the different types of cases. Like a case of common assault will serve at least 2 years in prison, with more years required, if the sentence is worse. In relation to this crime sentencing, I discovered that there is a “ One punch” law, that has a minimum sentence of 10 yrs in prison.

Lastly, I learnt that criminal records are extremely important. Like for example, if you go for a job in a trade, your criminal record will be checked. If you have a negative record, your luck getting jobs may be decreased. Overall, I felt that the recent police talk by the youth commissioners was an extremely valuable experience for the whole cohort and informed many individuals about a range of topics in society. Jayden Washbourne

ERC remains committed to a zero tolerance on bullying. All students have the right to a safe and secure learning environment, built on the foundations of respect and a sense of belonging. We remain committed to our touchstone of being an ‘Inclusive Community.’ For more information on bullying, including its effects, please visit https://bullyingnoway.gov.au/support-and-advice/for-families, https://www.thinkuknow.org.au/resources-tab/parents-and-carers and https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents

Mr Forshaw
Year 10 Pastoral Care Coordinator

To be People of Peace

As we start our last Term in a year when we are focussing on what it means to live a Gospel Spirituality, we are bombarded with images and messages of war and injustice around the world. Sometimes, this can lead to despair but we are reminded by the Gospel that “…endurance produces character, and character produces hope” (Romans 5:4). Our challenge this week in the midst of our joy and personal success is to remember those who suffer. Besides the conflict in the Middle East, this week is anti-poverty week and 22 October is World Mission Day. There are constant reminders that we are called to build the conditions of the kingdom of God ‘on earth as it is in heaven.’
Illawarra People for Peace is a local organisation working for peace and our College is a founding member organisation, along with the Diocese of Wollongong. They are extending an invitation to each person to pray for peace in our world.

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

Each Pastoral Care group gathers once each term as a cohort to celebrate a liturgy based on their Pastoral theme or a mass. We have been very fortunate to have Fr James Arblaster join the Koloona retreat and this week’s mass where we celebrated as a whole cohort. This is another signpost on our way through the year as a group and, like the activities on retreat where we learned to lift each other up, we recognise that the mass is the source and summit of our lives as a Catholic school community. Student volunteers Ryder Langton, Patrick Carolan, Kalani Thompson, Matthew Carolan, Taj Tegart, Alexander Attorre and Rylan Angel demonstrated great leadership in putting themselves forward to make the mass meaningful. Fr James spoke about the role of faith in a person’s life to strengthen them and it is a good time to remember that our motto is ‘God is my strength.’ May each Year 12 student be strengthened with faith and hope as they undertake the HSC.

As our students begin the last leg of their journey as secondary school students at the College, they undertake one of the most important aspects of our formation program, a three day retreat with some of their classmates and staff members. We know that reflective practice is important to adults in the work world and it is equally important to young people as they search for meaning and purpose in their own lives. As they take ever increasing steps to adulthood, we accompany them to open a space where they can articulate for themselves where they are heading. Our hope is that they can be men for others and we always say that this does not mean that they cannot also be a person who cares for their own needs. In fact, both on retreat and on the staff development day, we reflected on the fact that you must know how to renew your own spirit in order to carry on with all the demands of life. We are grateful for all the staff members who gave up their time to guide the students through this critical experience.

Here are some reflections from the students:
“The entirety of the retreat made my perspective on life change. I know that the boys and I didn’t think that it was but now that we’re back, I now realise how lucky I am. Fun activities were spread throughout the retreat and some weren’t even planned. Ranging from throwing a ball of string around and telling the year our dreams, to karaoke before the mass with Father Dwayne. All in all it was a good experience with the lads and I would gladly do it again.” – Hamish Elston

The retreat was a refreshing experience in which we were able to take time away from the complexities of everyday life and reconnect with our faith and peers. Overall myself and many boys enjoyed the experience and appreciate its value as we move into our final year of schooling. – Zane Al-Salih

Receiving letters from our parents was very meaningful and most likely strengthened our relationships with them. – Julian Eckermann

Although having no reception was tough, being able to escape from my normal life and social media and spend time with mates was definitely rewarding. – Elliott Johnson

The Year 12 retreat was an eye-opening experience, not only did it help me learn more about myself, but also my peers and teachers. – Will Wigan

The retreat was a confronting yet positive experience as we developed relationships with both peers and teachers learning about ourselves in the process, facilitating growth on both an individual and spiritual level. – Christian A

The retreat was a great experience, from waking up to watch the sunrise with mates, to sharing our life experiences and hopes for the future. We were all challenged to explore our own beliefs and aspirations, as well as given time to reflect on ourselves and escape from the stress of school work and exams. Definitely something I will remember from my time at ERC. Joshua Keir

A very opening and good experience – Kew Sukdee

The Year 12 Retreat was the perfect opportunity to reconnect with mates; reconnect with the faith; let go of the grievances of the previous year; and be spiritually prepared for the challenges of Year 12 and the beginning of our journey outside of school. Marcus

The retreat was an extremely comforting yet eye opening experience in relation to growing a deeper connection with our friends and family – Raul

It was a fulfilling experience – Connor McCann

Good way to connect with some boys you might not really know. Jesse Lanyon

The retreat was very eye opening, It helped me understand myself and learn what it means to be a good man. It also helped with the process of transitioning into year 12 and was overall, an amazing time by being surrounded by my peers. Jonah Danoun

On Wednesday the 27th of September, Mrs Schodde escorted Marcus Henriques-Thakur and Sam Stevin who represented the College at the Australian Association of Environmental Educators (AAEE) biennial sustainability conference, held at the University of Wollongong. Marcus and Sam participated in an interview with Costa Georgiadis (representing the AAEE), providing a youth perspective on topics regarding environmental education, such as the driving forces behind passion in youth, the changes that young people wish to see brought into our world, the changes young people would like to see in schools, and so on. The addition of this youth perspective will help to shape environmental education throughout the future, and help this form of education to have a more widespread and effective impact across Australia. Written by Sam Stevin.

Mrs Schodde
Eco-ERC Facilitator

The NSWCCC 2024 Cricket selections are being held in Term 4 this year. Students who are are interested in trialling for the NSWCCC U18 Cricket Team, please see the following information.

Registration link: https://csnsw.sport/sports/nswccc-secondary/cricket

Students registering should be playing cricket at a high or representative level:

• Event: NSWCCC Boys 18 Years & Under – Cricket Selections
• Date: Tuesday 21 – Wednesday 22 November 2023.

Eligibility – DOB: 1/1/2006 – 31/12/2008 & YEARS: 10 – 12 (2024)

Expression of Interest:

• An expression of interest must be submitted prior to confirmation of attendance at the selections.
• A paper selection of student registrations to attend the trials will take place after the close of EOI.
• EOI CLOSE DATE – Friday 10 November 2023 – 5 pm
• Successful students will be notified by email by Wednesday 15 November 2023

Venue: Lance Hutchinson Oval, Bond Road Riverwood

Closing Date: Friday 10 November 2023 at 5:00 pm

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

There are moments where we are reminded about the College spirit in which our boys live out the touchstones. On this very occasion – the U14 AFL Gala Day the boys did themselves and the Edmund Rice College community proud.

The day started with losing the first game by a last minute goal against Holy Spirit. This was seen as inspiration, given that the boys came back from a 19 point deficit at halftime. This attitude of working together as a team became apparent from the onset. The result from the first game meant that the team had to win the remainder of the games throughout the day. Through true grit and determination the boys were able to achieve this.

In the remaining pool games the boys played to a level where playing for the team and producing your personal best was openly spoken about by the team.

There were so many standout players with Fergus Nash leading in the point scoring for the day. Bear Holland, Magnus Kersten, Ben Jancetic and Finley Henricson took on the responsibility of defending tenaciously and contesting any ball close to the line. The midfield led by Isaac Oldfield, Ben Carolan and Finn Ardita worked well utilising effectively the roving skills of Sterling McEwan.

Not everything went to script with injuries to Aiden Lisle after the third game. Isaac Oldfield and Adita were also injured in the semi final meaning we were down to having only one substitute. What was impressive was how Aiden Lisle particularly took on the coaching duties and had the boys playing at a high level all day, whilst Issac continued to provide inspiring words for the team. In fact, Oldfield’s captaincy and half time talks were paramount and were executed with motivation and encouragement. We were able to hold on in the final against John Therry, due to a near perfect first half. Winning the AFL Gala Day was memorable given the way the boys played with spirit and most importantly with true sportsmanship.

Team: Dimitrios Stratis, Magnus Kersten, Samuel Lockyer, Aiden Lisle, Isaac Oldfield, Jacob Wilton, Finley Henricson, Benjamin Jancetic, Sterling McEwan, Finn Ardita, Bear Holland, William Morrison, Liam Crawford, Benedict Carolan, Zane Ashcroft, Nash Ferguson

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

Edmund Rice College enthusiastically participated in the Illawarra Secondary School 7s held at JJ Kelly Park on Wednesday,  18 October. The tournament comprised two pools, each consisting of five teams. The winners of each pool contended for the ultimate first-place title on the event day. The team commenced with a robust victory against Kiama High School in their opening match, triumphing with a score of 26-7. Notably, Chase Grant led the charge with an impressive hat-trick, supported by Daniel Meafou’s additional try and a commendable defensive performance that effectively thwarted Kiama’s attacking opportunities. In the subsequent match against Keira High School, ERC asserted dominance, concluding the game with a commanding 52-12 win.

The last pool game against Figtree High School witnessed an initial 12-0 lead by Figtree, but Edmund Rice College’s blend of strength, skill, and resilience facilitated a remarkable turnaround, culminating in a 52-12 victory. Key players such as Letham Manago, Ruben Mayers, Digby Woods, and Otis Cartwright exhibited exceptional performances in the forward positions. In the backs, Captain Kai Miller’s prowess in both defence and attack shone through, as he secured a brace of tries. Other notable scorers included Chad O’Brien, Chase Grant (2), and Daniel Meafou (2).

Emerging at the top of the ladder after the pool stage, Edmund Rice College advanced to face Holy Spirit in the Final. A swift scoring rhythm was established early on, with Chase Grant showcasing unmatched pace, crossing the try line twice in the initial stages. Captain Kai Miller further extended ERC’s lead. The game culminated in a convincing 32-5 victory, with Ruben Mayers, Chad O’Brien, and Harry Edgerton contributing additional tries, underscoring the team’s impressive teamwork and coordination.

Team List: Otis Cartwright, Lachlan Eastley, Harry Egerton, Khye Forrester, Chase Grant, Jesse Lanyon, Letham Manago, Ruben Mayers, Daniel Meafou, Mikaere Miller, Chad O’Brien, Nicholas Toparis-Penning, Leonardo Valentinetti, Digby Woods Coach: Mr Power

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

During the Term 3 holidays, New South Wales Athletics held their All Schools Athletics Championships at Sydney Olympic Park. The College is thrilled to share the following results from our students that participated:

Chase Grant:

• 3rd in the 400m 16B with a new PB of 49.09s – for context the amazing Cathy Freeman won gold in the 400m at the 2000 Olympics with a time of 49.11. Earlier this year Chase broke the Diocesan record in the 400m with 51.10s, quite an improvement!
• 3rd in the 200m 16B with a new PB of 21.98s.

Joe Hinds:

• 4th in the 800m 17B with a new PB of 1:53.22s – an extremely close race. For context Ryan Gregson, a local athlete, ran a 1:53 in the 800m when he was 17 and went on to compete at two Olympics in the 1500m.
• 6th in the 1500m 17B with a new PB of 4:02.32.

Milton Stepanovski:

• 1500m PB & 3000m PB and a 6th place finish in the U14s.

Congratulations boys, on your stellar performances!

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

During the recent school holidays, Year 10 student Cooper Morrison participated in the All Schools Rugby League Championships in Port Macquarie. Cooper gained valuable experience playing against the best U15 players in the country. Coopers personal thoughts on the championships are as followed:

I had an amazing experience up in Port Macquarie, participating in the NSWCCC Rugby League team. The tournament kicked off with a tough start, facing a loss to CHS in the opening match. In the second game, I scored my first try, and the match came down to the final 30 seconds, with Qld scoring, which, in my opinion, should have been a no try and a penalty in our favour. Unfortunately, this led to another loss for CCC. However, we rallied in our last pool game against ACT, exhibiting excellent teamwork and securing a solid victory with a score of 54-4. Overall, I cherished the time spent with a fantastic group of teammates and relished the opportunity to engage in some top-tier football.

Congratulations Cooper

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

During the school holidays the Go Kan Ryu (GKR) Karate State Championships were held in Ryde with over 570 competitors of all ages and belt grades. There were individual and teams events in both Kata and Kumite.

Kata being a series of choreographed martial arts movements and patterns and Kumite being point scoring fights. Five students from ERC, who all train at the Wollongong Dojo competed at this event. These students were: Cooper Hemmy, Max Hemmy, Beau Anderson, Youssef Achaechi and Phillip Tran. Cooper, Max and Youssef competed in the team events together. The results are listed below:

Cooper Hemmy – Year 12: Individual Kata – 1st, Individual Kumite – 1st, Team Kata – 1st, Team Kumite – 1st

Beau Anderson – Year 12: Individual Kata – 1st, Individual Kumite – 1st

Max Hemmy – Year 9: Individual Kumite – 2nd, Team Kata – 1st’ Team Kumite – 1st

Youssef Achaechi – Year 9: Individual Kumite – 1st, Team Kata – 1st, Team Kumite – 1st

Phillip Tran – Year 7: Individual Kumite – 3rd

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

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.

In The Sustainable Teacher, Melissa shares practical strategies gathered from over 20 years of experience to help teachers find a better balance. Using ten key principles including intentional planning, effective time management, and collaboration, The Sustainable Teacher offers advice, empathy and real-life stories to assist educators along their teaching journey. Teachers at all career stages will find inspiration throughout the book to navigate their teaching journey with more energy, enthusiasm and resilience.

Teaching is a profession that includes moments of joy, fulfillment and deep engagement, but challenges and demands within the educational world can often lead to burnout.

Melissa Kennedy is an education leader, teacher, workshop presenter and published author who focuses   on empowering educators to create a sustainable and   balanced teaching practice. Her books are for teachers, of  any kind, to learn new strategies to integrate into their   teaching careers. Melissa’s Principles of Sustainable   Teaching aim to facilitate change from within and help  educators enhance their teaching practice.

Available in Print and eBook from Amba Press www.ambapress.com.au. Alternatively, you may buy The Sustainable Teacher from Booktopia, Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

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