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Back to all Newsletters 22 August ERC Newsletter – Week 5 Term 3 2025

Contents

  • Principal's Message
  • Deputy Principal's Message
  • Identity
  • Senior Winter Sleep Out
  • 2025 Year 10 ERA for Change and Human Rights Day
  • Year 8 Liturgy
  • Illawarra Women’s Day of Dance & Culture
  • ERC Crafters donate to "Wrapped with Love"
  • Pastoral Care
  • From the Acting Director of Pastoral Care
  • Bullying, No Way!
  • Year 9 Ski Trip
  • Year 8 News
  • Student Learning
  • Learning & Teaching Update
  • From the Director of Studies
  • Announcing Atomi to parents (Year 11) - additional resource for Preliminary Examination preparation
  • National Science Week 2025
  • HSC Visual Arts and Industrial Technology Showcase
  • Sport
  • Bill Turner Cup
  • Community Announcements
  • Careers Newsletter
  • Edmund Rice College Centenary Race Day
  • Parents & Friends Association
  • Notices
  • Community Messages

Contents

  • Principal's Message
  • Deputy Principal's Message
  • Identity
  • Senior Winter Sleep Out
  • 2025 Year 10 ERA for Change and Human Rights Day
  • Year 8 Liturgy
  • Illawarra Women’s Day of Dance & Culture
  • ERC Crafters donate to "Wrapped with Love"
  • Pastoral Care
  • From the Acting Director of Pastoral Care
  • Bullying, No Way!
  • Year 9 Ski Trip
  • Year 8 News
  • Student Learning
  • Learning & Teaching Update
  • From the Director of Studies
  • Announcing Atomi to parents (Year 11) - additional resource for Preliminary Examination preparation
  • National Science Week 2025
  • HSC Visual Arts and Industrial Technology Showcase
  • Sport
  • Bill Turner Cup
  • Community Announcements
  • Careers Newsletter
  • Edmund Rice College Centenary Race Day
  • Parents & Friends Association
  • Notices
  • Community Messages

Principal's Message

Amid national conversations around boys’ academic performance in NAPLAN, we are pleased to report that our Year 7 and Year 9 boys have achieved commendable results this year.

In Year 7, 75% of students achieved results in the ‘Strong’ or ‘Exceeding Expectations’ categories in both Reading and Spelling. Numeracy performance was particularly impressive, with 86% of students reaching the top two bands. Writing results are also encouraging, with 70% of Year 7 boys achieving at a ‘Strong’ or ‘Exceeding’ level.

Similarly, our Year 9 students have demonstrated considerable growth. Reading (77%) and Spelling (80%) remain areas of strength, while Numeracy continues to stand out with 89% of students achieving strong results. Writing has also shown notable improvement, with 70% of students performing in the top two bands.

While Grammar and Punctuation remain areas for further development across both year groups, these results reflect the effectiveness of our teaching programs and the strong support systems in place across the school.
At present, individual faculties are undertaking detailed analysis of student NAPLAN data. This process is focused on identifying and supporting those students who are still developing their skills across the assessed domains. By taking an individual student-centred approach, we continue to ensure that every learner receives the assistance they need to achieve their full academic potential.

Building on this strong foundation of learning, we recently marked the completion of the Year 12 HSC Trial exams. These important assessments provide our senior students with valuable feedback and exam experience as they prepare for their final HSC exams in October.

I take this opportunity to acknowledge and commend our dedicated teaching staff across all year levels. Their ongoing commitment to high-quality instruction and student-centred support plays a vital role in the academic progress of every student—from those Year 7 students just beginning their high school journey to those Year 12 students preparing to complete it.

***

Throughout this year, the College Leadership Team has been actively working on the development of our next Strategic Plan. Drawing on last year’s MMG stakeholder survey data, and guided by frameworks such as the EREA National Charter and the National School Improvement Tool, we have identified key strategic objectives that will guide our continued growth and improvement. These draft objectives were recently shared with attendees at last week’s P&F meeting as part of our ongoing consultation with the broader College community.

***

Following a recent formal interview process, I am delighted to announce that from 2026 Mr Brett Ferguson will be our new Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing. Brett brings extensive experience in student support and leadership, including recent roles as Acting Assistant Principal and Leader of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing at John Therry Catholic College, as well as Acting Director of Student Wellbeing at TIGS. Holding master’s degrees in both Student Wellbeing and Educational Leadership, along with qualifications in Positive Education, Brett is committed to sharing his experience and knowledge of data-informed practice to further support our learning community. I would also like to take the opportunity to express my sincere thanks to Mr Russell Bates, who has ably stepped forward as the Acting Director with generosity and commitment. Next year Mr Bates will take on a new role as Community Liaison Officer to assist in our centenary year.

Dr Stephen Gough

Deputy Principal's Message

Term 3 is flying by and is often the case in the winter months we have had a number of students who have been absent from school as a result of being unwell. This is a timely reminder that every student’s absence must be explained, be it a full day or part of the day. Absences can be explained via the parent portal or by calling the College office, emailing the office or contacting your son’s Pastoral Coordinator. The College has a legal obligation to follow up on any absences and thus is extremely grateful for those that explain the absence at the time it occurs. All absences must be explained within 7 days.

Classwork is provided on Google Classroom for those who are not well enough to attend school but are well enough to engage in some school work while they are recovering. If your son is absent for an extended period of time it is advised that you contact your son’s Pastoral Coordinator to ensure a smooth transition back to school.

Families whose son’s attendance is below 90% will receive a letter informing them of the concerns pertaining to their attendance. These letters fulfill our obligation to keep you informed of your son’s attendance rate if it falls below expected rates of attendance.

*********

Just a reminder to those parents picking their sons up from school at the end of the school day. In the interests of student safety we ask that parents avoid entering the council carpark at the back of the school until after 2.20pm when the buses have departed. Buses are finding it difficult to enter and exit the carpark in a manner that is safe.

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A reminder that Year 11 Preliminary Exams will commence in Week 8, students are only required to attend school on the day and time of their exams. All Year 11 students will be required to remain at school for the Year 12 Graduation Ceremony on Friday September 19 to farewell Year 12.

*********

Our Year 12 students have returned from their Trial HSC and are currently working hard in their final few weeks of secondary school, making the most of every opportunity to maximise their learning gain. Each student will have the opportunity to meet with their mentor to receive support and advice to support them in their final approach to the HSC exams.

Mrs Hughes
Deputy Principal

Identity

Senior Winter Sleep Out

This week, students from Years 10, 11 and 12 took the opportunity to sleep out and raise funds for their chosen charities.

  • Year 10 students are participating in their annual fundraiser called ‘Socktober’ – the sleep out is the beginning of a drive that will run through to October to raise money for our social justice partner in the Church, the Pope’s Mission focus. So far for this initiative they have raised $1071
  • Year 11 students are supporting the work of the Edmund Rice Foundation in the Railaco Craic community in Timor Leste where we have been on immersion. So far, they have raised $1500 with this initiative and another $1000 through College collections.
  • Year 12 students are supporting Talk2MeBro, a mental health charity that has been working with the College since its inception, assisting us to address critical issues of wellbeing and how to ask for help. So far for this initiative, they have raised $720 and we look forward to working with them on the Year 12 Reflection Day next week.

Following the Year 10 ERA for Change Social Justice Day on Tuesday 12 August, the Year 10 Commerce class presented Catholic Mission with $2245 from their Market Day.

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

Judith 2
Judith 3
Judith 4

2025 Year 10 ERA for Change and Human Rights Day

On Tuesday 12 August, Year 10 took part in the ERA for Change and Human Rights Day, a key part of their Catholic Social Teaching studies. The day gave students the chance to hear directly from agencies and individuals addressing social issues such as homelessness, poverty, food fairness, refugee challenges, crisis housing, and First Nations justice.

The day began with an opening liturgy led by Mrs Knowles, followed by a keynote from Irene Baik (Catholic Mission). Students then attended workshops facilitated by Catholic Mission, Wollongong Homeless Hub, Vinnies, Healthy Cities Illawarra, MCCI, SAHSSI, Lighthouse Community Kitchen, and College First Nations Officer Melanie Jennison. These sessions provided practical insights into both the challenges faced and the opportunities for advocacy and action.

Students also engaged with a Q&A panel featuring agency representatives, alongside Year 11 student leaders who shared their own experiences of advocacy through ERA for Change. The leadership, maturity, and engagement shown by both year groups were highlights of the day.

The experience gave students a deeper understanding of how Catholic Social Teaching and human rights principles can be lived out in service to others. We thank all agencies involved and commend Year 10 on their respectful participation and commitment to social justice.

Mr Pullella

Please read Some reflections on the experience from Year 10 students:

“The Fair Food session was engaging and interactive and helped me understand the stark reality of food wastage in Australia.” Year 10 Student – Marley Flynn

“The ERA for Change / Social Justice day was a notably informative experience for students that brought many global issues to the forefront in a serious way. The presentations allowed us to realise just how close to home these issues are, helping us understand how immediate and pressing inequality is.” Year 10 Student – Daniel Morozov

David 1
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Year 8 Liturgy

This week the Year 8 Pastoral Group was scheduled for their Mass with Fr Duane, but other things happening in the parish meant he could not be here. Instead, we celebrated a Liturgy of the Word with a Communion Service, as we had reserved consecrated hosts from our last mass. In an age when we do not always have a priest, it was a good opportunity for students to understand how we can all assist as lay people, since liturgy literally means ‘the work of the people.’ Mr Marsh and Ms Stella gave a beautiful reflection on the Pastoral theme, My Beloved Son, and understanding the value of each person and the students participated with the prayers and readings. We are so grateful for the skill and dedication of Mrs Knowles who supports the College in the Liturgical initiatives which are such a large part of our life as a Catholic school community..

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

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JH7

Illawarra Women’s Day of Dance & Culture

A number of years ago, we were asked by a parent of a former student to assist with setting up a social event for women, particularly those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and those who may be marginalized or isolated and have limited social opportunities. The Illawarra Women’s Day of Dance & Culture was born. We held it here at the College for the first couple of years and last year one of our partners, Healthy Cities Australia, developed the concept and brought it to the Wollongong Town Hall, central to transport options. The Bishop’s Office at the Diocese of Wollongong has also been another supporter. Now in its fourth year, the Day is coming up on September 5th.

Healthy Cities Australia is proud to present the 4th annual Illawarra Women’s Day of Dance and Culture (IWDDC), a joyful, inclusive celebration of women from all backgrounds through dance, food, and connection. IWDDC is a women-only event, a safe, welcoming space created by women, for women to come together, build friendships, share stories, and connect with local services.

This year’s theme, “Take Me to the Islands,” brings the bold spirit and rich traditions of the Pasifika Islands. Led by Marion Taeo, Pasifika delegate and Director of Empress Eventz, the program features traditional performances, soul-stirring island rhythms, and Pasifika-inspired cuisine.

Tickets include:
Delicious island-style food and non-alcoholic refreshments
Live cultural entertainment and raffle prizes
Free women’s health checks and service information
Children are welcome under parent/carer supervision

Tickets operate on a pay-it-forward model to support access for all women in the community. Funds raised support future women’s and children’s programs run by Healthy Cities Australia and our community partners.
You can purchase tickets here: Women’s Day of Dance & Culture

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

ERC Crafters donate to "Wrapped with Love"

“Our wonderful ERC crafters have created 4 beautiful blankets this year to donate to “Wrapped with Love”.

We will be donating these blankets this week. We have already started the squares for next year’s blanket.

If you would like to get involved, come down to the NLC on Tuesday and Thursday at lunchtime. Beginners are welcome. We can show you how to knit. All are welcome.”

Kelley 1
Kelley 2
Kelley 3

Pastoral Care

From the Acting Director of Pastoral Care

A United Stand Against Bullying

Last week, we participated in Bullying. No Way! Week, a national week of action against bullying. While our school has a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, we understand that students sometimes make poor choices and may not be fully aware of the impact of their actions on others.

The student voice is an incredibly important part of our school community, and we are proud of how our boys use their voices to help keep our campus safe. However, we know that speaking up can sometimes feel uncomfortable. If your son is a target of bullying or witnesses it, we strongly encourage you to reach out to his Pastoral Coordinator.

If your son reports a bullying incident—whether it happens at school or involves other students from the school—please let us know as soon as you can. By working together, we can best support your son and resolve the issue. Due to privacy laws, we cannot share specific information about other students involved, but we can assure you that all concerns will be addressed in a timely and sensitive manner.

Our Student Representative Council (SRC), led by Nate Jennett, did a fantastic job of highlighting how our students can work together to prevent bullying. Please see the powerful message from Nate below.

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A Message from Nate Jennett – Year 11 Wellbeing Prefect

Last week, during Bullying. No Way! Week, we focused on the theme of Be Bold, Be Kind, Speak Up.

Just like a school of fish swimming together for protection, we at ERC can stand side-by-side to look after each other. When fish move as one, they’re stronger and safer—and the same goes for us.

Bullying can happen anywhere—at school, online, and in the community—but everyone has the power to help stop it. The best way to end bullying is by working together—students, teachers, families, and friends—standing up, speaking out, and supporting each other.

Students were invited to join me and other members of the SRC outside the library to participate in activities and talk about how we can be bold, be kind, and speak up.

Remember: Together, we can stop bullying at ERC! Let’s swim together like a school of fish and protect one another.

Mr Bates
Acting Director of Pastoral Care & Wellbeing

Bullying, No Way!

Last Friday, our school came together to support the national Bullying No Way! campaign.

During recess and lunch our SRC led by Year 11 Wellbeing Prefect Nate Jennett led the charge with lunchtime activities supporting our theme, Be Bold, Be Kind, Speak Up. Students from all year levels stood up and supported the cause by committing to positive actions in speaking out against bullying contributing to our Pledge for Change Chain which will be displayed as a daily reminder that everyone has the right to feel safe and valued at school.

Our key message for the week also asked students to consider what they can do to be kinder and speak up in their own classes, friendship groups and sporting teams where Nate highlighted that “just like a school of fish swimming together for protection, we at ERC can stand side-by-side to look after each other. When fish move as one, they’re stronger and safer — and the same goes for us.”

It was inspiring to see students come together, have fun, connect, and share a commitment to creating a school culture where kindness always wins.

Miss Tomasi

Karina 1
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Year 9 Ski Trip

During Week 4, the Year 9 boys embarked on an unforgettable Ski Trip to Thredbo. Across five days, the students embraced the challenges of the slopes, many trying skiing or snowboarding for the very first time. Their enthusiasm, resilience, and willingness to support one another stood out, creating a fantastic atmosphere of teamwork and encouragement. Both Thredbo and Action Learning Initiatives (ALI) staff commended the boys for their positive behaviour and the way they represented the College with pride, both on and off the mountain. It was a week filled with great times, growth, and memories that will last for years to come.

Run concurrently with the Year 9 Ski Trip, were a series of engaging Activities Days. On Monday, the boys tested their reflexes and competitive spirit with Indoor Karting and Laser Tag at C1 Speed. Wednesday brought a mix of strategy and teamwork through Ten Pin Bowling and the Wollongong Escape Rooms, where problem-solving skills were put to the test. The week concluded with an exciting day at Illawarra Fly, where the boys experienced the breathtaking Tree Top Walk and Zip-line adventure.

A special thank you to the teachers who generously gave up time away from their families to provide the boys with these fantastic opportunities! Both the Ski Trip and Activities Days highlighted the Year 9 boys’ sense of camaraderie, responsibility and school spirit.

Please see some comments from some Year 9 boys below and enjoy some photos from the week:

Last week was packed with fun activities! On Monday, we went karting and played laser tag at C1 Speed in Albion Park, which was exciting and full of energy. Wednesday was even better with ten pin bowling and the escape rooms in Wollongong, where we had to work together and solve puzzles as a team. To finish the week, Friday’s trip to the Illawarra Fly was amazing, walking high up in the treetops and enjoying the incredible views. It was such a fun week with lots of laughs and great memories. – Cruz, Max, Yusuf.

Our ski trip started on Sunday when we left school and headed to Jindabyne. After getting our gear and settling into the cabins, we woke up early on Monday (5:30am) to have an early breakfast and then head to Thredbo for our first ski lessons, where we learnt the basics like putting on our equipment, stopping and moving around. Each day followed a routine of waking up early, having breakfast, skiing in the morning with instructors, then having lunch and spending the afternoon in groups exploring the slopes. As the week went on, we built confidence and even tackled harder trails like Walkabout, Squatter’s Run and High Noon. In the evenings, we had dinner, played games, and hung out before going to bed. On Friday, we had one last ski session before heading back home, tired but happy after an awesome week. – Hayden and Bede

Mr Panozzo // Mr Clarke

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Year 8 News

Legend’s Lotto

As a strategy to recognise positive behaviour amongst Year 8 students, the Pastoral Team introduced a special award this week called, ‘Legend’s Lotto.’ To be eligible for the Legend’s Lotto draw, students must not have received a negative referral for the first four weeks of Term 3.

Congratulations to the following students who received a Canteen Voucher for their positive behaviour and attitude towards College life: Lucas White; Oscar Krauss; Jack Agius; Sebastian Rodwell.

Mr Marsh // Ms Stella
Pastoral Care Coordinator // Assistant Pastoral Care Coordinator

Student Learning

Learning & Teaching Update

NAPLAN 2025: Edmund Rice College Response

Students and families of Years 7 and 9 have received their NAPLAN results from the 2025 testing period. This point-in-time assessment offers valuable insights into the foundational skills essential for academic success.

Despite national concerns reported in the media, Edmund Rice College is pleased with its overall performance, which remains strong in comparison to broader trends.

In response, our teachers have begun analysing the data within faculty teams to develop targeted, explicit teaching strategies. These strategies are designed to address specific skill gaps across year levels and are embedded within subject areas to ensure they are both relevant and authentic to students’ learning experiences.

These initiatives will be implemented not only in Years 7 and 9 but across Stages 4 and 5, strengthening foundational skills as students progress through secondary school.

Finally, individual student data is being shared with classroom teachers to better understand the needs of specific groups. This allows for more tailored instruction and supports effective, focused teaching within each course.

Study Skills Sessions

In recent weeks, students have had the opportunity to participate in Study Skills sessions offered during Homework Club. These sessions are designed to help students develop effective study habits in preparation for assessments and examinations.

The program introduces study techniques supported by neuroscience, proven to enhance content retention and improve students’ ability to apply their knowledge under assessment conditions.

Students who are interested in joining the course can register using this FORM. We will be in touch to confirm the date and time of their session.

Mr Hughes
Director of Learning & Teaching

From the Director of Studies

Year 11 Final Preliminary Examinations

Year 11 Students have received their Preliminary Examinations Timetable this week. These examinations are scheduled on various days in Weeks 8 and 9 of this term, and students will have flexible attendance throughout this examination period. They are only required to attend school when they have examinations. Students may wish to use the College Library to revise throughout the two week examination period.

All Year 11 students are required to remain at school on Friday, 19 September following their morning examination to attend the Year 12 Graduation Mass.

Illness / Misadventure Situations

If your son is absent for an assessment task or his performance is impacted due to illness or misadventure, a reminder to Years 10, 11 and 12 Parents and Students that it is a requirement that he submit an Illness Misadventure Application Form within 3 days of his return to school after the assessment task. The student is also required to notify his Teacher, the Head of Department or myself if he feels his performance may be impacted before he sits the task. The Illness/Misadventure Application Form must be accompanied by a Medical Certificate in the case of illness or other valid independent documentation such as a Police or Traffic Report in the case of a misadventure. Further details are available in each Year Group’s Assessment Handbooks which can be viewed on the Parent Portal under Curriculum. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

College Subscription to the Study Skills Handbook

A reminder that all members of the Edmund Rice College community have access to the Study Skills Handbook via the username and password provided within this article on the ‘Magic of Movement’, which highlights the benefits of physical activity on young people’s mood, energy and focus.

This is a timely reminder for our Year 11 students to remember to ensure they are maintaining a healthy balance between their studies, exercise and rest as they prepare for their upcoming assessment tasks.

Mrs Bell
Director of Studies

Announcing Atomi to parents (Year 11) - additional resource for Preliminary Examination preparation

Dear Parents,

Edmund Rice is committed to its partnership with Atomi. We are committed to providing the best possible learning environment to foster student success.

A critical step in creating this experience is equipping both staff and students with the right tools to support learning, both in and out of the classroom. By leveraging the latest innovations in technology we are able to encourage greater academic success.

A reminder about what this partnership involves:

What is Atomi?

Trusted by over 700 Australian schools, Atomi is an online learning platform that helps your child understand their content and improve their results through video lessons, interactive quizzes and intelligent features.

What does the partnership involve?

Your child will be able to access [Atomi’s entire Year 11 and 12 catalogue of subjects] or They’ll be exposed to Atomi videos, lessons and assessments in class and the data Atomi captures will help teachers to provide each student with more specific and targeted learning support.

Outside of class, students can access Atomi anywhere, anytime if they’re stuck on content or are looking to further their own learning. They will be encouraged to build Atomi into their revision routines, leveraging innovative features that will improve their study skills, and learning outcomes, and build their confidence. This includes thousands of video lessons, an exam revision generator, goal-setting templates, weekly, monthly and termly planners, intelligent quizzes and so much more.

What has happened this year

Your child has been set up with their own Atomi profile, already populated with each of their classes that Edmund Rice College has subscribed to.

To access their Atomi profile, your child has had to accept an email invitation that has been sent to their school email address and followed the prompts. They will be guided through this process and shown what effective Atomi usage looks like in class. Teachers will continue to monitor student usage throughout the course of the partnership.

If you would like more information about Atomi, you can view their website.

Mr Sirianni
Director of Information Technologies & Innovation

National Science Week 2025

The school theme for the 2025 National Science Week was Decoding the Universe – Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language. The theme aimed to allow students to delve into the mysteries of the Universe by exploring the fundamental languages of nature, including mathematics and the groundbreaking field of quantum science. The Science staff at ERC invited students to participate in a range of activities to deepen their understanding of the natural world and modern technologies we use every day.

On Monday, Mr Stutchbury showed students how to turn invisible ink visible using silver nitrate. Students drew pictures and wrote messages, which darkened to a deep brown colour when exposed to sunlight. Students extracted DNA from fresh strawberries with Mrs Timmins on Tuesday and completed a “crack the Code” task with Mrs Knowles on Wednesday. Miss Berry ran the competition on Friday and asked students questions from a range of Science subjects, including a picture round based on the Science Week theme. Congratulations to Nino Todorov, Claude Vincent and Jayden Cheema on winning the 2025 Science Week Trivia Competition.

The “Guess What’s in the Box” competition was held for students throughout the week. Each day a clue was released to assist students in guessing what might have been hidden in the box. Students placed guesses inside the mystery box and the winning entry was drawn on Friday morning. The clues for this year’s mystery box were:

  • Monday’s Clue: “The thing I produce also makes it harder to see me.”
  • Tuesday’s Clue: “Some people believe I can predict the future, but I really show the distant past.”
  • Wednesday’s Clue: “ have a big brother at Science Space.”
  • Thursday’s Clue: “I am an electronic imitator of a real natural phenomenon.”

This winning entry belonged to Nikolas Todorov from Year 8 with his guess of “Planetarium Projector”. Congratulations Nik, we hope you enjoy projecting constellations and galaxies.

Students also submitted photos of patterns in nature that they found in everyday life. Mitchell Wilson photographed the patterns found on cow skin, Nikolas Todorov photographed sea shell patterns and Bentley Faucett captured the pattern of a nest made by a Satin Bower Bird.

A massive thank you to all the science staff, especially Ms Massanova and Mrs Lawrence, for all the effort in preparing and running activities during lunch. It is great to see such a wonderful opportunity provided to students once again.

Miss Berry

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HSC Visual Arts and Industrial Technology Showcase

Visual Arts and Industrial Technology Major Projects Showcase

  • Thursday 4th September
  • 5:00–6:30 pm — Waruga House (Art Centre) and ERC Br Pelin Hall (across from the administration building)

Once again, the young men of Edmund Rice College uphold the fine tradition of producing high-quality major works each year.

Come and enjoy an outstanding display of Year 12 Industrial Technology projects from Metal and Engineering, Graphics and Timber Technologies — from fine furniture to precision fabrication and architectural presentations. Also on exhibition are the Year 12 Visual Arts Bodies of Work – an investigation into contemporary artmaking.

All are welcome to attend and celebrate the creativity and talent of our students.

Ms Costello

Sport

Bill Turner Cup

The Bill Turner Cup is an under 15’s school football competitions. Around 450+ school teams from NSW, Qld, ACT and Victoria participate each year, with all players 15 years and under.

The competition is a knockout format with early round matches starting in Term 1 each year. Bill Turner valued fitness, fun and fair play and the competition pays tribute to these values.

The Bill Turner Cup is in its 46th year.

The 2025 competition is now down to the final stages with only 8 teams remaining.

Some of the usual teams have progressed again. Moriah College and Westfields Sports High from Sydney, Maribyrnong Sports College from Melbourne, Palm Beach Currumbin from Queensland, Kelvin Grove from North Queensland (2 more to qualify) are joined by new boys on the block Edmund Rice College from Wollongong. Our best previous result was when we were placed 4th in 2025.

Final 16 match against Santa Sabina College

After our 3:1 win against the strong Illawarra Sports High, 5 players came back from injury and snowfield duty. Coach Mr Crapis was left with a selection dilemma. On paper our side oozed class all over the park no matter who started.
The starting line up:

  • Goalkeeper – Rocco Favretti
  • Defence – Rocco Scaglia, Stefen Anagnostopoulos, Christian Ugonotti, Lewis Andrews
  • Midfield – Fabian Gaudiosi, Max Smith, Ethan Dzeparoski
  • Forward – Callum Cajar, Xavier Godbee, Aiden Rayner
  • Reserves – Ethan Mathie, Alexander Bradshaw-Wett, Alexander Popovski, Edward Page, Travis Potter

An early pre-game scare when it was reported that a key midfielder arrived minus his boots. Manager, bus driver and shed sweeper GC jumped into action and two sets of boots arrived with a few minutes to spare.

The game began with a midfield arm wrestle then as Santa Sabina started to dominate, our defence stood tall and gave them no opportunities to score.

Then a great switch ball from Ethan found Callum to Xavier to Max, wearing his favourite boots, made no mistake, 1niiiil! Brilliant move. We now started to assert some authority on the game. Soon there was more to come.

Rocco S. found Aiden with a great through ball who dazzled their defence before a pin-point cross found Ethan at the far post who put it away. 2 Nil! Great finish!

Wow, Santa Sabina didn’t expect this. It could easily have been more as their keeper thwarted first Callum, then Xavier and finally Christian whose overlapping runs carved inroads into their defence.

Solid defence by Rocco S, Stefen, Christian and Lewis restricted their attack.

Close to half time a very important double save by Rocco kept the score 2:0 at half time. The swelling crowd were entertained by very even game.

The second half began as the first. Santa Sabina were pressing for an early goal. Our back four gave nothing away and when a long ball did get through Rocco F. was there to clean up.

Ethan, Max and Fabian controlled the midfield forcing Santa Sabina to hitting long balls over the top to no avail.

Xavier, whose strength and speed on the ball created constant pressure, shrugged off a number of defenders down the left. His cross found Callum drifting into the box. Callum’s first time strike smashed into the onion bag. 3:0 with 17 minutes to play!

More great combinations by our midfield threatened to make it four. A great header by Alexander B went close then a well worked move by Christian and Fabian fed Aiden who smashed the ball over the top.

All boys on the bench got some minutes. This did not weaken our side at all. The strength of the bench is a testament to the depth of talent in our under 15’s age group. Everyone contributed from the warm up to the final whistle.

With the fulltime whistle came the realisation that we have now progressed to the final eight series. The is massive for our College. It is the camaraderie and the spirit in which the boys approach the game that just may cause an upset in Albury.

The next match is the quarter final match up against the strong Maribyrnong Sports College team from Melbourne. They have been a consistent final four team in past years. Should we progress, the semi-final and final series will be held in Newcastle on the 9/10 September.

Mr Cajar

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

Edmund Rice College Centenary Race Day

The College warmly invites all members of our community to attend the Centenary Race Day at Kembla Grange Racecourse on Saturday 11 October 2025, marking the official launch of our 100-year celebrations.

This special event will include premium hospitality, a two-course luncheon, live racing, and the presentation of the ERC Rugby League/Union Team of the Century. It promises to be a memorable day of celebration and connection for students, families, staff, and Old Boys.

Tickets and table bookings are now available at:
events.humanitix.com/erc-centenary-race-day

We look forward to celebrating this historic milestone with you.

Parents & Friends Association

Dear Parents and Friends,

The Edmund Rice College Parents & Friends warmly invites fathers, grandfathers, carers and sons to attend an informal breakfast at the College on

Thursday 4th September
6.45 am to 8.00 am.

Come and join us in celebration of Father’s Day for a BBQ Breakfast in the Year 12 Cola Area, adjacent to the senior classrooms. Entry via Keira Park.

All free tickets are to be booked via Humanitix at https://events.humanitix.com/fathers-day-breakfast-2025-qy7jxejp 

Please book for all people attending including the students.

** For catering purposes no more bookings can be taken after Monday 1st September 8pm**

Bar Pellegrini Mobile Coffee van will be providing coffee, tea and hot chocolates on the day.

PARENT HELPERS NEEDED – If you are available to volunteer and assist us with the BBQ we would appreciate the assistance. To register please fill out the google form via this link: https://forms.gle/2HwgvwKsbzA892Hg8

We look forward to seeing you there.

Kindest regards
The Volunteers of the ERC P&F Committee.

Notices

2024 Edmund Rice College Yearbook

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CANTEEN MENU

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EDMUND RICE COLLEGE CALENDAR 2025

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TERM DATES 2025

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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.

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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.

Community Messages

Keira Cricket Club Registration

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Towradgi Surf Club Registration

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Surf Life Saving Illawarra Open Day- 14 Sep 25

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112 Mt Keira Rd West Wollongong
2500 NSW, Australia
+61 2 4228 4344
office@erc.nsw.edu.au
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