- Principal's Message
- Parents & Friends Association
- Identity
- From the Director of Identity
- Year 12 Retreat - Dreaming the Future; Becoming a Man for Others
- Student Learning
- From the Director of Studies
- The European History Tour
- College Stage Band Rocks the Illawarra!
- Tournament of the Minds
- Oliver is Here!!
- Musical Instrument Tuition at Edmund Rice
- Pastoral Care
- From the Acting Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
- Talk2MeBro Presentation
- Year 9 School Clean Up
- Sport
- Junior Boys Diocesan Basketball Championships
- Year 7 - Student Achievement Golf
- Community Announcements
- Careers Newsletter
- CSL Opportunity
- From the Uniform Shop
- Notices
Contents
- Principal's Message
- Parents & Friends Association
- Identity
- From the Director of Identity
- Year 12 Retreat - Dreaming the Future; Becoming a Man for Others
- Student Learning
- From the Director of Studies
- The European History Tour
- College Stage Band Rocks the Illawarra!
- Tournament of the Minds
- Oliver is Here!!
- Musical Instrument Tuition at Edmund Rice
- Pastoral Care
- From the Acting Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
- Talk2MeBro Presentation
- Year 9 School Clean Up
- Sport
- Junior Boys Diocesan Basketball Championships
- Year 7 - Student Achievement Golf
- Community Announcements
- Careers Newsletter
- CSL Opportunity
- From the Uniform Shop
- Notices
Principal's Message
Dear parents and carers,
I would like to congratulate all students for the positive way they have returned and quickly settled into class for this final Term of the school year. As a College community, we keep Year 12 students in our thoughts and prayers during their current HSC examinations. Our prayer and wish are for all their efforts to be richly rewarded and to produce their very best over the coming weeks. As a College, we remain very proud of all students:
A Prayer for our HSC Students
Heavenly Father, we bring before you our HSC students.
Give them the gifts of wisdom, right judgement, knowledge and courage.
Bless them with calm hearts and clarity of mind as they sit for their exams.
May they be affirmed in their efforts and know you are with them on this journey.
We pray that they will stay calm under pressure and work to the best of their ability.
May they feel your loving presence in their lives, now and always, and may they be strengthened by our prayerful support, the Edmund Rice community.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and forever.
Amen
The New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA) has congratulated the College on the 17 ERC students who have been nominated for consideration in Shape 2024. Shape is an annual exhibition of outstanding Major Projects developed by HSC Design and Technology, Industrial Technology and Textiles and Design students. To have so many student nominations for ‘Shape 2024’ is an incredible feat and a 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 the following HSC Shape nominees:
Beau Anderson, Malo Chiodo, Steven Cocca, Caelan Cook, Harry Egerton, Hamish Elston, Braydon Garrash, Hunter Lewin, Matthew Marning, Jack McNally, Julian Nicholls, Ashton Rouse, Taj Tegart, Kalani Thompson, Kobey Weekes, William Wigan, Louis Wojewodka.
***
Last week, our Year 11 students engaged in the Senior School Retreat Program at various conference venues. Thank you to Mrs Judith Hurley (Director of Identity) for her outstanding planning and to the dedicated teachers who generously contributed their time to lead and facilitate various sessions. These senior retreats continue to offer a meaningful opportunity for our students to reflect and deepen their spiritual growth and are foundational to their school journey and beyond.
***
Today, school communities across Australia celebrate World Teachers’ Day. An opportunity to celebrate the teaching profession and to say thank you to our hard-working teachers for the significant contribution they make in helping build promising futures for our young people.
On behalf of all the ERC teachers, thank you to the thoughtful Parents and Friends Association for the generous morning tea they provided staff earlier today. I particularly acknowledge and thank Mrs Francis Fenech in her final year as president of the P & F Committee and the wonderful contributions that she has made to our community.
May our patron, Blessed Edmund Rice, in the spirit of Jesus, continue to guide and inspire us.
Best wishes,
Dr Gough
Parents & Friends Association
Identity
From the Director of Identity
Go and invite everyone to the banquet (Matt 22:9)
October is Catholic Mission month: a time when we consider how we support the church, especially in the parts of the world where they serve the most vulnerable. In my life before I came to Australia I was a volunteer missionary in the Pacific Island nation of Kiribati who benefitted directly from the support of Catholic Mission, particularly in their support of the PALMS volunteers from Australia. Catholic Mission helps to build schools, hospitals, farms and other programs so that people can lift themselves out of poverty. The theme this year is ‘Go and invite everyone’, referencing the bible story of the wedding banquet when the invited guests couldn’t be bothered to come, even though they had been given the honour of an invitation. Then, the people preparing the banquet went out and invited everyone on the street to come. It challenges us to consider who has a seat at our table in life. Do we invite others into the story of Jesus and make his mission real in the lives of others? It is challenging as Catholic Christians to consider that God does not call us to judge others but to love them. All of our missions collections in Weeks 1 – 3 will go towards Catholic Mission. Students are encouraged to bring at least one dollar to contribute to missions and you can also tap your bank card in order to donate. SRC leaders will come around during Pastoral Class to give you that opportunity. Thank you for supporting the work of Catholic Mission. You can read more about it here.
We would also like to invite everyone to join us for Friday prayer in the chapel. During Term 4 we are using the Divine Mercy Chaplet to pray for the intentions of students and staff.
Our Muslim students are welcome to join the group in J3 Waruga House for Friday Prayer. Thanks to Mrs Haines, Acting Liturgy Coordinator, for her leadership in this initiative.
Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity
Year 12 Retreat - Dreaming the Future; Becoming a Man for Others
One of the highlights of the formation program at Edmund Rice College is the opportunity for students in Year 12 to take time out at the beginning of their final year as a group to contemplate the direction of their own life and the important relationships in their lives. We are grateful to the families and students for their support of this very important program and know that it has had a positive impact as we start this final year together. Here are some reflections from the students:
- “It was pretty cool” – Javier Winchester
- At Koloona, the boys truly enjoyed themselves. The activities we completed definitely helped me grow as a man, but the most memorable moments of the retreat wouldn’t have been the same without the incredible group of guys who attended. As a cohort and house, we all grew closer, and the experience strengthened our bond. – Hayden Harrison
- Definitely worth going to enjoy time with you and your mates and teachers. Jonah O’Dea
- For the Year 12 retreat is a good experience to understand others and to get to know yourself. The activities are good for all to be apart of as the teachers worked hard creating the schedule who get to be closer to your peers around you. So I recommend to go to the year 12 retreat. Archie Oyston
- “I greatly enjoyed the camp and found it extremely fun and enjoyable. I learnt a lot about both myself and others and that there is more to people than meets the eye. I had that much fun I wanted to stay another day or two”. Yousef Abdul-Latif
- I thoroughly enjoyed my time and experience on the retreat and would highly recommend to attend this bonding experience with other peers and gain a stronger connection with God. Aston Rowles
- it was a good experience definitely a eye opener on experiencing how i can be a better person but also a better man. Michael Marijan
- It was a time for us to understand ourselves and reflect on our journey of faith. Furthermore, it allowed us to understand better how to help others emotionally, spiritually and advise on how to approach our final year of schooling. – Samuel Di Leva
- It was nice to hang out with people you might not normally hang out with outside a school environment. – Angus Allen
- Moving into year 12 I found the retreat a great time to think and reflect on the many blessings awarded to me in my life and how my faith can help to give meaning to the challenges I face. Being able to spend time and listen to the stories and aspirations of my peers and teachers was also a holistic experience that I felt created a sense of belonging and community to Edmund Rice College. Henry Jones
- Our recent retreat was a refreshing and inspiring experience for the College Community. It offered a valuable break from routine, allowing us to deepen connections, reflect on our goals, and return with renewed energy. James Nair
- Overall the Koolona retreat experience deepened my sense of life in school and future aspirations whilst getting to know and understand peers on a greater level – Lucas Ramirez
The retreat helped everyone understand themselves and to be open and out of school to sit back and reflect on what has happened throughout your life. It gave us the opportunity to not be at school doing work and to be able to understand ourselves better but also our peers and teachers. Willem Robaard - The retreat to Koloona provided us boys with an opportunity to slow down from our normal busy lives and engage in reflection activities to help us transform as people. – Christian Sammut
- The Retreat was a fun and enjoyable experience that everyone should enjoy, it is a good way to start Year 12 – George Newell
- The retreat was a good chance to unwind, connect with others, and gain some new perspectives. – Josh Newman
- The retreat was a great experience which provided a time for me to get to know myself and others better as well as reflect on our lives so far as we head into our last year of school. – Angus Riddell
- The retreat was a time for me to really get to know myself and contemplate my faith and spirituality, allowing me to come into the new year with a fresh and open mind. Thomas King
- The retreat was an amazing chance to step back from daily pressures and reflect on what truly matters. It brought us closer as a year group and helped us grow individually. (Tzar Harb)
- The Year 12 2025 Retreat was an incredible experience for all involved. Especially after our Year 11 reflection day, the bonding connection between all members of the cohort has strengthened drastically I believe. The Retreat was a time for personal connection, but also a time for connecting with others and the teachers as well. The aspects of prayer, reflection, games and free time activities enhanced the experience as there was something for everyone. Altogether, the Year 12 Retreat was a great camp which allowed peers to connect and communicate their feelings, especially now that it is vital we all work together for the challenging year ahead. Jayden Washbourne
- The Year 12 retreat was a great experience and was good to spend times with friends-Jayden Svarc
- The year 12 retreat was an eye opening experience for me and many other students who personally got involved. It was a way of opening up to those around you and deepening bonds through joint activities and reflections. The camp venue itself was one in which had it’s many beautiful traits and allowed for a overall better experience. In all this camp was a way for us boys including myself to connect to those around us which we may have not previously done and feel better within ourselves. – Dylan Lester
- This retreat gave everyone a chance to recognise what it is to become a great man and how we all no matter our character we can become great men. Yousef Chaaban
- This retreat really help me grow as a man going into the future and get past things in the past that I was holding onto. Ruben Mayers
Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity
Student Learning
From the Director of Studies
Year 12 Higher School Certificate Examinations
Year 12 students are to be commended for the calm and studious manner in which they have completed the fist couple of weeks of the HSC Examinations. As a College community we continue to keep them in our prayers that they will achieve the results they need to follow their chosen career paths.
Year 12 2025 HSC Assessment Handbook
Next week, Year 11 Students, Parents and Carers will receive the Year 12 2025 Higher School Certificate Assessment Handbook. This document contains important information about Higher School Certificate Assessment. It is an expectation that all students thoroughly familiarise themselves with the College Stage 6 Assessment Policy and the HSC assessment grids for each HSC Course in their pattern of study. Parents and Carers will be required to electronically acknowledge that you have received and read the Assessment Policy in the Handbook to enable you to support your son in following College assessment task requirements, including compulsory school attendance on the day of and on the school day before an assessment task and the procedure for applying for Illness/Misadventure.
Year 11 College Leaders’ Induction and Year 11 Academic Awards Assembly
We look forward to recognising the fine achievement of academic excellence by Year 11 students this year at the College Leaders’ Induction and Year 11 Academic Awards Assembly on Tuesday 29 October from 8:15 -9:15am in the Edmund Rice Centre.
Year 7-10 Semester 2 Examinations
Year 10 students commence their Semester 2 Examinations on Monday, 28 October and the Years 7-10 Semester 2 Examination Timetable is included in this week’s Newsletter to enable students to prepare for their upcoming assessment tasks. A reminder students, parents and carers need to use this Examination Timetable in conjunction with your son’s Year Group Assessment Calendar which may contain additional assessment tasks.
YEARS 7-10 SEMETER EXAM TIMETABLE
Note: Students have access to the live document where changes may occur.
Aligning Goals and Values
Please follow this link to the benefits of students aligning their goals to their values and note that you and your son have access to this and other study tips and techniques via the Study Skills Handbook username and password also provided in this link.
Mrs Bell
Director of Studies
The European History Tour
On Monday 23rd September 2024, 51 students and 6 staff departed for a history tour within Belgium, France and Italy. During our 17 days’ overseas students were provided with opportunities to experience aspects of World War I, World War II, ancient societies as well as cultural, spiritual and sporting events.
It is difficult to put our journey into words – words such as ‘amazing’, ‘enlightening’, ‘magnificent’ do not seem to do adequate justice to what we saw and experienced. Picture yourself standing on Omaha Beach at Normandy – the weather is beautiful, seas are calm and hundreds of tourists are walking through the gardens. When you turn your back, there are 9,000 crosses – row after row, indicating just some of the American lives that were lost on this beach during France’s liberation. On another day you enter the largest gothic cathedral in France, the Notre Dame in Amiens which can fit two of the Paris Notre Dame Cathedrals within its structure. This cathedral provided sanctuary and hope for the Allied soldiers during WWII. The sheer size and the sanctity of the building was at times difficult for us all to comprehend.
While in Belgium students were able to climb the Belfry Tower in Ypres to survey the flat landscape and how this impacted each battle that was fought along the Western Front. It was easy to see how the war reached a stalemate so early. The Sir John Monash Centre at Villers-Bretonneux cemetery provided the boys with interactive experiences of the Australian soldiers’ personal involvement on the battlefields. Climbing the Eiffel Tower as well as exploring the Louvre Museum in Paris were definitely highlights – then they visited Pompeii and Herculaneum as well as the Colosseum in Rome and the highlight list for the boys grew. The Gladiator School in Rome, as well as the Auereo Swim Centre in Bayeux and the Multi-Ball Sports Centre in Amiens bonded the whole group. There was no longer a year group differentiation as all the boys formed new friendships and enjoyed the facilities as one.
The Bayeux Tapestry was not seen as one of the major highlights of the trip prior to our departure, however, upon entry we were astounded by the length of the tapestry and the historical narrative that it told. The boys were fascinated by the depiction of King Harold being hit in the eye by a Norman arrow and then his demise at the hands of his enemies. Another surprise was the Abbey at Monte Cassino in central Italy. It was here that the Benedictine Order built their first monastery which had been totally destroyed by the Allies in WWII and recently rebuilt lavishly by the Italian government.
There were even spontaneous bursts of song on the coach rides, with Willie Nelson’s ‘On the Road Again’ a particular favourite!! The above only provides glimpses of what we enjoyed and experienced. Then there was the food – on our first night in Rome, just for the entrée alone, the boys ate 14 kilos of pasta!!!! We did not weigh the pizzas and the gelatos!!!! The voices of the boys below provide you with some further insight into our journey.
It is important at this time that I also thank Dr Stephen Gough for allowing and believing in this opportunity for the boys. Further, the tireless efforts of our team: Mr Darren Jeffery, Mrs Jodie Hughes, Mr Andrew Marsh, Mr Eoin Power and Miss Karina Tomasi cannot be understated. Thank you – Helen Lothian
Daniel McInerney: The Europe trip offered us all a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in learning history and to have the opportunity to be in these new countries and cities many of us have never visited. France, Paris, Rome, Italy, Belgium. We visited many famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, the Louvre and the many graves of the soldiers who fought for freedom on the battlefield. This is something that I will never forget!
Daniel Morozov: The European History Tour is probably one of the greatest experiences the College has ever provided in its history. Travelling internationally is a huge factor on its own. Being able to be present at sites we only learn about, being so distanced both mentally and physically from, was brilliant. It’s not something you get to do every day! What made it even better was the sheer variety and diversity of our experience. There was both modern and ancient history – and even in between! On top of this, we got the opportunity to truly enjoy certain places, taking in the city and town life. This trip is something I’ll remember for years to come.
Jeremy Packer: The European History Tour is the best experience I’ve personally had at Edmund Rice College. This huge leap of faith which got us to Europe was incredible and I hope students of the future are able to participate in the same or similar experiences we were gifted on this trip. This trip consisted of a lot of learning and taking in new knowledge or strengthening our previous knowledge that we had obtained during terms one, two and three. This trip was not only learning but it was about building friendships that will last a lifetime. This was also incredible due to the massive amount of students that were able to attend, having been the first time Edmund Rice College had been overseas with students. The trip was breathtaking and I really enjoyed every moment. These experiences don’t come often and couldn’t have been done without the countless hours spent organising from teachers. Thanks for the opportunity and highly suggest that overseas tours continue to occur in the near future.
Jasper Jacobs, Isaac Ayres, Lachlan Ferguson: The European History Tour was the most breathtaking experience for a 15-year-old nowadays. The Eiffel Tower as well as the beauty of the old architecture showed us both modern and ancient history around almost every corner, truly stunning. We were gifted with this trip to bond with friends, teachers and the history presented to us. We were lucky to experience these adventures as they don’t happen often. This couldn’t have been done without the support and organisation of all the staff and teachers behind the desks and with us in person. We thank you greatly for this. Our knowledge of modern history through Belgium and France was enriched as well as with the ancient cities of Italy proving to us that this was the trip of a lifetime!
Finn Richardson: The Europe tour was the best experience offered to my classmates and I. The trip gave us memories and new friendships that will last a lifetime. We were able to experience places that hold such a deep significance in history like Pompeii and the beaches of Normandy. Everyone that went on the trip had such an amazing time with different experiences every single day, this was truly a amazing trip and will never be forgotten.
Jacob Hughes, Brodie Kelly: We will always have the memories of the beautiful tragedy that was the Pompeii and Herculaneum ruins. We were also able to witness many other monumental sights due to the school’s generosity. A personal highlight of the trip for both of us would have to be the Gladiator school on the outskirts of Rome. This experience was both taxing and wonderful as we were able to truly experience what the gladiators of ancient time went through.
Jesse Payne, Xavier Ayres: The European History Tour was an unforgettable experience. Standing on Omaha Beach, exploring the ruins of Pompeii, and climbing the Eiffel Tower brought history to life in a way we never imagined. Visiting battlefields and historic landmarks deepened our understanding of the past, while bonding with friends and teachers made the trip even more special. From Gladiator School in Rome to spontaneous bus sing-alongs, every moment was full of memories we’ll cherish forever.
Jesse Tulloch: From the moment we left Sydney, a trip of a lifetime began. Every day of the trip was full of unforgettable memories, ranging from buying chocolates in Belgium, to standing on Omaha Beach, to looking out onto the skyline of Paris atop the Eiffel tower, and to exploring the world of the Ancient Romans in the town Of Pompeii. This is a trip that will be remembered by everyone who went for the rest of their lives!
Crosby Crawford: Departing from Sydney Airport is when the trip of a lifetime became a go soaring through the sky for hours upon end and soon touching down in France, this gave me a big thrill being so far from the nest, this was new for me. Texting my mum and dad I was safe. Touring through all the sights was incredible. To see the Eiffel Tower in person didn’t disappoint, astonishing it was, indeed. Looking at the difference in lifestyle from the southern hemisphere to the northern, was way more unalike than I could have thought. To summarise this trip it was mighty alright with thinking that it might have been my final time in Europe. I will savour this trip for the rest of my life.
Ethan Faddy: This trip was amazing from start to finish (except for the overnight plane trips). It felt extraordinary to be in a new continent, on the other side of the world. We saw and experienced things I thought I would never have the chance to, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum and the Louvre. We also visited many other locations that were more significant in the world wars such as graveyards and locations of major and minor battles. All in all, if this trip was to happen again down the line, I highly recommend it. 10/10
Spencer Strother/Domenico Jaque/Austin McCallum: From the day we left Australia, travelling through the air at 900km/h, over the vast emptiness of the ocean. We knew it would be a trip that we would remember for the rest of our lives—getting to go overseas with a group of friends and see the amazing landmarks and historical sights of Belgium, France and Italy. Some of our highlights were seeing the astonishing architecture of the European cities, the lovely souvenir shops of Rome, the tour guide at the Louvre, and the fascinating sights of WW1 and WW2. Throughout the trip, we also made new friends, including the other year groups, and Belgian kids in the Paris hotel. This trip was an opportunity of a lifetime and we all are super grateful that we had the chance to go. We also thank all the hard-working teachers, joyful tour guides and skilled bus drivers who spent their time helping us throughout this trip. If this trip were to ever happen again, I would highly recommend you take the chance to go.
Noah Burrows: The moment we got on the plane to go to our layover in Singapore and then to France airport the trip of a lifetime began for everyone involved. Being so far away from home felt surreal and having to text my mum and dad when I was just waking up and they were having dinner. It was very cool being over the other side of the world where I had never been before. My highlights of the trip were going to the top of the Eiffel Tower and seeing the amazing view of Paris, Going to Omaha Beach and seeing and remembering the soldiers who fought in WW2 and being in Sorrento south of Naples as it was a really amazing town. Something I noticed when away on the trip was the different lifestyle and cities to here in Australia. This is a trip that I will remember for the rest of my life.
Mrs Lothian
College Stage Band Rocks the Illawarra!
Our Band continues to impress audiences across the Illawarra
Our talented Stage Band has wrapped up their Primary School Tours for the year, leaving a trail of entertained minds in their wake. The band has dedicated countless hours of dedicated practice to perfecting their show, which now boasts over an hour of exhilarating music, dance and engaging performances.
From classic anthems to modern pop hits, the Stage Band’s interactive repertoire always gets the crowd moving. These performances are tailored to younger audiences, making them a fun and educational experience for primary school students.
The band’s commitment to excellence is evident in their performances, which are filled with energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism. We’re incredibly proud of their achievements and the positive impact they have on the community.
Please see the attached photos from our recent performance in Fairy Meadow.
Mr Haybittle
Music Teacher
Tournament of the Minds
Tournament of the Mind teams challenges students to work collaboratively, think creatively and solve problems in both long form and short challenges. This year we had two teams made up of students from Years 8 to 10 who competed at the Regional Finals held at the University of Wollongong.
The students were given stimulus and a challenge which they had six weeks to complete.
The Language Literature team had to prepare a launch for the biography of a character from literature. The Social Science team had to explain the cause and impact of the release of the “Spirit of TOM’, as well as create a 3D model of The New World.
“Be provided with a stimulus gave us a new way of thinking. Everyone’s ideas shaped our final result.” Vidath Ranasinghe ,Year 8
The students developed important skills over the course of the competition, with strict rules requiring the solutions to be student led. Teamwork is a strongly emphasised part of the competition, with teams being judged on how well they collaborate and come up with ideas in the Spontaneous challenge.
“Working effectively together was the biggest thing from Tournament of the Minds. To become a team mate rather than doing something on my own”. Lucas Mendivil Coelo, Year 8
Both teams are commended for their commitment and positive attitude leading up to the competition and outstanding performances on the day. A special thank you to Miss Berry and Ms Davey for their work with the students leading up to the event. Congratulations to the Language and Literature team who were awarded Honours at the Regional Finals in a reimagining of a biography of Storm Boy.
Ms Shumack
Enrichment Coordinator
Oliver is Here!!
The Narandha Learning Centre has recently implemented a new Library Management System called ‘Oliver’.
- Students will find the link to Oliver in their drop-down bookmarks – Library catalogue – Oliver
- Staff can access the link to Oliver via Rome – Library [NLC] – Library catalogue – Oliver.
Students will receive an introduction to ‘Oliver’ towards the end of this term or early next year. Please see library staff if you have any queries or problems accessing the site.
Mrs Ham
Teacher Librarian
Musical Instrument Tuition at Edmund Rice
Join our On-Campus Peripatetic Music Program!
Learn to play guitar, piano, or brass instruments from experienced musicians right on campus. Our peripatetic program offers personalised lessons tailored to your skill level and goals, and is conveniently scheduled during the school day for maximum convenience.
Benefits of joining our program:
- No need for outside transportation: Lessons are held on campus, eliminating the hassle of traveling to a tutor after school.
- Flexible scheduling: Our program fits seamlessly into your school day, making it easy to balance your music studies with your academics.
- Experienced instructors: Learn from dedicated musicians who are passionate about teaching and helping you achieve your musical goals.
- Personalised instruction: Our lessons are tailored to your individual needs and learning style, ensuring you get the most out of your music education.
- Variety of lesson options: Choose between individual or small group lessons to suit your budget and learning preferences.
Expressions of Interest? HERE:
Limited spots available!
Mr Haybittle
Music Teacher
Pastoral Care
From the Acting Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
Term 4 has commenced with a number of significant events with Year 11 attending a number of Retreat centres to enjoy and participate in Becoming a Man for Others “Building a future full of Hope”. Next week we will acknowledge the success and achievements of the Year 11 students’ academic results from their Term 3 Examinations. At this assembly the College will celebrate the Induction of the 2024/25 Student Leaders.
As we near the end of October being Mental Health Month it 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. 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, and 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 the 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.
Next week we wish the Year 8 students and their teachers an enjoyable and safe week at Coolendel while enjoying the Outdoor Camp on the Shoalhaven River. The outdoor camps and retreats have been a long lasting tradition and priority in the education and mental health and wellbeing of our students. Students enjoy the natural environment, connect and make new friends, build resilience and overcome fears, learn new skills and work with each other overcoming challenges and obstacles in the activities (Canoeing, Rock Climbing, Flying Fox leap of faith, cooking, high wires and bush discovery). There are many opportunities and memories that each young man will take from his experience and I am still being reminded by many past students of those camps they attended and recall what they experienced and treasure as pivotal life changes and are very appreciative that they attended and were given the opportunity to discover themselves while overcoming personal fears and challenges at that time.
Mr Bates
Acting Director of Pastoral Care & Wellbeing
Talk2MeBro Presentation
This week, our 2025 Year 12 cohort were lucky to receive a presentation from Talk2MeBro, founded by College Alumni Jack Brown. Talk2MeBro has been associated with the College for a number of years and it was a fantastic opportunity for our newest student leaders to continue the legacy of Brotherhood and Mateship that has become part of our legacy.
Jack spoke about his own time at the College, the beginnings of Talk2MeBro and the importance of ongoing conversations for young men. The mixture of emotional stories and engaging activities meant that our newest Year 12 students understood how they can best support each other – through positive reinforcement and supportive action.
The presentation was then followed by the opportunity for staff and students to engage in the health benefits of an Ice Bath, provided by Freeze Yourself. Thanks to Talk2MeBro, Year 12 heard from former NRL Stars Garreth Widdop, Trent Merrin and Jake Marketo who not only reinforced Jack’s message of support and positivity, but also discussed leadership and legacy. Trent’s message was: “Leave your jersey in a better place than when you received it.” Our newest Year 12 cohort have inherited the legacy of so many before them and are now in charge of leaving a positive impact on the College as they move through their final 12 months.
The College wishes to thank Jack, Talk2MeBro and Freeze Yourself for the experience and expertise provided. We look forward to the ongoing relationship and many more chances to celebrate Men’s Mental Health, Wellbeing and Mateship.
Mr Forshaw
Year 11 Pastoral Care Coordinator
Year 9 School Clean Up
As part of our Pastoral and CSL programs, students are encouraged to assist with the College and wider community. While all students make a good effort with the rubbish across the school, there is often some areas that need more attention. On a beautiful Tuesday morning this week, the entire Year 9 Cohort, spread across the school and cleaned up a lot of rubbish. Thanks to all students and Pastoral students, great work!
Mr Griffiths
Assistant Year 9 Pastoral Care Coordinator
Sport
Junior Boys Diocesan Basketball Championships
The Edmund Rice Junior (Years 7-9) Basketball team competed at the Wollongong Diocesan Basketball Championships on Monday, 21st October at Minto Basketball Stadium. The team consisted of:
Riley Bennett (unable to play due to injury), Austin Browne, Fletcher Browne, Finley Henricson, Noah Leaning, Connor MacRae, Sterling McEwan, James Petrovic, James Schubert, Darcy Stepanovski, Carter Thelan, and Daniel Tramacco.
Gabriel Arbelias represented the College as a student referee for the championships. He was a huge help to the smooth running of this tournament and displayed maturity and enthusiasm throughout the day.
Game results were as follows:
- Game 1 V Corpus Christi Catholic High School – Won 36 – 13
- Game 2 V John Therry Catholic College – Lost 30 -12
- Game 3 V Holy Spirit College – Won 16 -14
- Game 4 V St Benedict’s Catholic College – Won 45 – 23
- Game 5: Semi Final V St Josephs – Lost in Overtime – 29 – 27
- Game 6: Bronze medal game V Magdalene Catholic College – Lost 38 – 26.
Overall result: placed 4th out of 10 teams.
I would like to congratulate the students on their efforts, determination and positive attitudes exhibited each game. All students displayed exceptional sportsmanship and represented the College with pride. It was a pleasure to coach this group of young men and I look forward to working with you all next year as we continue to grow our Basketball Programs at the College.
A special thank you to the Year 7 and 8 students who have been training weekly since Term 1 each Monday at school. We appreciate your commitment to the school sports programs and enjoy seeing you get better each week.
Thank you,
Mrs Sparks
Year 7 - Student Achievement Golf
During the last week of Term 3 – Charlie Kerr of Year 7 represented the College at the Jack Newton Shield held at Moore Park Golf Course Sydney. Charlie finished 3 over par, with rounds of 73 & 70 to win the Year 7 boys division by 8 shots! Furthermore, he tied 3rd overall in the Yr 7- 9 age division!
Congratulations Charlie!!
Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator
Community Announcements
Careers Newsletter
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
CSL Opportunity
Student at the College are invited to register for the following CSL Opportunity.
Mrs Schodde
CSL Coordinator
From the Uniform Shop
2025 SENIOR STUDENT UNIFORM FITTINGS
The College Uniform Shop uniform supplier, Noone will be conducting Senior student uniform fittings on Thursday 17 October, Thursday 24 October and Thursday 31 October. Please see further details HERE
Lisa Wellington
Store Manager
Notices
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 20 and 21.
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.
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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.