Dear Parents and Carers,

Within this current period of enrolment interviews for Year 7 into 2026 and 2027 (and, surprisingly, a recent influx of applications for 2028!), one message has been consistent in conversations with families: they have chosen ERC because we understand how boys learn, grow, and thrive.

Since 1926, ERC has been committed to shaping boys into young men of character, faith, and purpose. I am a firm believer that the graduates of our College are by far our best advertisement.

Our staff choose to work here because they believe in the value of an all-boys education. They understand the energy and curiosity boys bring – and they respond with engaging, hands-on learning, clear expectations, and authentic relationships that build trust and confidence.

In my leadership across a variety of boys’ schools, I’ve seen firsthand how boys flourish in environments where strong, supportive teacher connections balance high standards. These relationships allow boys to feel seen and secure – empowering them to take ownership of their learning and personal development.

Beyond academics, these relationships help boys build resilience, empathy, and a strong sense of belonging. Many ERC alumni, including some of our current fathers and staff members, speak of the friendships and mentor relationships formed here as life-shaping. Importantly, our team includes outstanding female educators and leaders who guide our boys toward respectful and inclusive attitudes, reinforcing values that matter well beyond the school gates.

While co-education certainly has its place, at ERC, we remain very confident that a boys’ school – done well – is uniquely positioned to help boys grow into men who are compassionate, responsible, and ready to challenge and call out disrespect wherever they see it. Our work with St Mary’s College further strengthens this vision, offering meaningful opportunities for social development and leadership.

Within the current demand for places at ERC, I thank you for the trust and support you continue to show. The strength of ERC lies not just in its staff and students, but in the values we share with like-minded families.

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As teachers prepare to report and comment on student achievements within the semester reporting process, I would like to acknowledge the manner in which students across Years 7-10 have engaged within this period of formal assessments. As we approach the final weeks of this semester it is crucial that all students maintain not only their school performance but also their strong connection to the Edmund Rice community. I acknowledge the contributions of all students, staff, and parents to the learning experiences this semester.

Dr Stephen Gough

Deputy Principal and Head of Campus National Conference

This week I had the privilege of attending the National Deputy and Heads of Campus conference in Melbourne. Two of the Keynote speakers included Professor Mark Rose AM, Dr Aimee Maxwell, Archbishop Peter Comensolli and Professor Elizabeth Labone.

With reference to the Jubilee Year Archbishop Peter encouraged us to remember that Hope is a virtue to be practiced, as opposed to optimism, hope is our own work, it is future oriented and points us forward.

He further reminded us that in a world of fast paced and ever changing technology, including AI, that person to person communication is critical to allowing us to live out our humanity, to be faithful to the ways of Christ and to help young people to find meaning and purpose in their lives.

Professor Elizabeth Labone, Chief Executive Officer of the Victorian Catholic Education Authority highlighted for us some interesting findings from research undertaken as result of the HILDA Survey in relation to Catholic education. This data affirms the decision of every family who chooses for their child a Catholic education. Affirming that the holistic approach of Catholic schools, focusing on academic excellence, moral development, and community service, appears to foster well-rounded individuals

The Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey is a nationally representative longitudinal study of Australian households innovative research emerging from this survey highlighted the significant advantages of choosing a catholic education for your children. The infographic below highlights some of the very positive outcomes for graduates of Catholic schools identified by the Victorian Catholic Education Authority

If you would like to read the full research finding in relation to Catholic Education you can you will find a link here.

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A reminder that Yr 12 students are required to attend all study lessons throughout the school week. Please avoid scheduling appointments during these periods, particularly as we approach the Trials. Evidence from the graduating class of 2024 highlighted the positive impact that these lessons had on improving student outcomes and building a strong and collaborative learning culture.

Mrs Hughes
Deputy Principal

We have had such a full Term 2 of faith and justice so far with more to come! Our sacramental program, part of Mrs Knowles’ Liturgy schedule, has been supported by Fr Duane and Deacon Joseph who celebrated Mass with Year 9 and Year 10, while Year 12 celebrated a Liturgy of the Word, demonstrating their leadership and faith in the absence of a priest.

‘Following Pope Francis’ declaration of this year as a year to be Pilgrims of Hope, Mrs Knowles and the Liturgy Prefects have devised our own pilgrimage of hope to visit the Churches in the Diocese designated by the Bishop. This week we visited St Francis Xavier for Mass and Immaculate Conception Unanderra.

Mrs Haines and Ms Tomasi worked with the student leaders to develop an engaging advocacy lesson delivered to the whole school this week, while Mrs Knowles has been leading the group who are undertaking the Refugee Ration Challenge, Ms Berry has joined in to lead the MCCI Fundraising and Ration Challenge and Ms Jennision, the First Nations Education Officer showed great leadership in engaging the community in conversations about Reconciliation. Finally, Mr Pullella and I are working with our Year 11

Immersion Team for Global Education who will be going to Timor Leste at the end of the Term. We will share our experience with the community in Term 3.

In all of these things, we remember that our purpose is to live out our faith to be pilgrims of hope and builders of peace. It is in the small everyday acts that we build hope in the world. A couple of weeks ago, Year 8 student Jack Baldassari sent me a photo of the cross and I am sharing it with you today. It reminds us that the cross stands as a beacon of hope, especially during the Easter season, which is why we had a white cloth on it. We are now transitioning through Pentecost to Ordinary time as the church seasons encourage us to grow in our faith. Thank you for always supporting our many initiatives, as without you we would not be able to be this sign of hope.

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

Throughout Reconciliation Week, staff and students have engaged with this year’s theme “Bridging Now to Next”. #NRW2025 leaf templates by Kalkadoon woman Bree Buttenshaw for @ReconciliationAustralia inspired the ERC community to get creative. Learning about the dimensions of reconciliation – race relations, equity and equality, unity, historical acceptance, and institutional integrity, staff and students reflected on what they do, think, see, or believe now about reconciliation, and what they hope comes next in our journey. These leaves now form a collage representing a beautiful bridge of colourful reconciliation reflections in our Narandha Learning Centre as a sign of our commitment to true reconciliation.

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

During our Pastoral lesson this week students had the opportunity to engage deeply with the themes of Pilgrims of Hope and Builders of Peace for Reconciliation Week and Refugee Weeks. Exploring the 2025 Reconciliation Week theme, “Bridging Now to Next,” they reflected on Australia’s journey toward unity and justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In observance of Refugee Week (16-22nd June), students examined the resilience of refugees and their contributions to Australian society through learning about one another’s stories and experiences. Through discussions and creative activities students developed a deeper understanding of inclusion and social justice. This lesson empowered them to become informed advocates for a more compassionate and equitable future.

We would like to acknowledge and say Thank you to Riley Nolan who took time to answer the boys’ questions and share his insight as well as Christiano and the Haddad family who so bravely shared their experience of seeking refuge.

Miss Tomasi

The students in Pastoral Class 7F were interested in participating in the Ration Challenge to support refugees, however, they were hesitant to do it alone. There were a lot of “I’ll do it if you do it” being said by lots of students. So, looking at the Justice and Solidarity touchstone, we decided that we will all be a part of the challenge by completing it together and supporting each other. Students who are not participating in the challenge are supporting other students with fundraising and being of assistance during the ration pack challenge.

Local organisation Multicultural Communities Illawarra is currently fundraising for blankets and money to assist families in our local area. While our major fundraising has been for the national Council of Churches ‘Act for Peace’ Ration Challenge (already raising over $20,000!), we want to now turn our focus to this local charity. After hearing stories from a local family in our advocacy lesson this week, we would love to be able to help others to make a comfortable home in our community. Please support our students and staff to make a real difference to people in our local area. You can donate HERE

Additionally, if you have new, clean blankets or sheets, they can be dropped off at the office by June 23 and we will take them to MCCI. If you want further details, contact Mrs Hurley.

Ms Berry

On Saturday 31st May, a group of dedicated Edmund Rice College students took part in the Zonta Birthing Kit Assembly Day, held at St Mary’s Star of the Sea College, Wollongong. This powerful initiative was conducted in partnership with the Birthing Kit Foundation Australia (BKFA) and the Zonta Club of Wollongong, with the aim of improving maternal health outcomes for women giving birth in low-resource and remote settings across the globe.

In alignment with our EREA Touchstones of Justice and Solidarity and Inclusive Community, our students contributed their time and energy to packing 1000 clean birthing kits, each designed to reduce infection and improve hygiene during childbirth. Each kit, costing just $5, includes six essential items: gauze, a plastic sheet, soap, cord ties, a sterile blade, and latex gloves. These basic but critical supplies can save lives where access to medical facilities is limited or non-existent.

The event was more than a service opportunity – it was a lived expression of solidarity with vulnerable women and children, and a powerful reminder of the global reach of justice-focused education. Students from ERC worked side-by-side with peers from other schools and Zonta volunteers, engaging in rich conversations and sharing a common purpose.

Mrs Haines

We are seeking 8-ply 100% wool balls, or even partial balls, from your stash to contribute to the blanket we are knitting for “Wrapped with Love.” While we have several dedicated knitters on board, our wool supply is diminishing. We would greatly appreciate any donations you can provide to support this project. Thank you for your generosity!

Year 11 2026 Subject Selections Information Evening

A reminder to Year 10 Parents, Carers and Students that the Year 11 2026 Subject Selections Information Evening will be held next Tuesday 17 June from 5:00-7:00pm in the Edmund Rice Centre. Attendance of all Year 10 students with at least one parent is expected to support the students as they make the important transition from Year 10 into Year 11 next year. This is an opportunity to receive important information regarding the subject selections process.

HSC Minimum Standards Testing

Second round testing for HSC Minimum Standards will take place in Week 9 this term. Participating students will be emailed the venue and timing of these test(s) in Reading, Writing and/or Numeracy early next week.

Year 7-11 Student/Parent/Teacher Conferences

A reminder these will take place on Thursday 3rd July from 8:30-11:30am and 2:30-7:00pm. Parents and carers will be emailed when the booking facility is opened.

Mrs Bell
Director of Studies

Image: Jomark Francis Velasco on Unsplash

Reading: Weaving connections

Rather than viewing reading as a passive activity, the authors of Activating Reading Capabilities in English suggest that proficient readers actively weave connections between what they’re reading and their own experiences. This weaving process transforms reading from simple word recognition into a rich, meaningful dialogue between reader and text.

In our classrooms, we’re looking at ways to encourage students to make these vital connections. Students learn to identify links by relating content to their own personal experiences, finding themes across different books, and understanding how stories relate to current events or universal human experiences.

To help students make comparisons, we need to have conversations about what we’re reading. We can ask questions like “Does this remind you of anything?” or “How does this character’s experience compare to yours?” or “Have you seen anyone react this way before?”

By asking thoughtful questions, we are encouraging students to think critically about what they’re reading. When they can weave their own understanding into what they read, they become invested in the material and retain information more effectively.

What I’m Reading

Name: Josh Timpano
Title: PDHPE Teacher, Sport Coordinator

• The Gray Man Series by Mark Greaney – A fast-paced thriller series following a former CIA operative turned assassin, as he navigates complex missions, global espionage and betrayal.
• My Life in Red and White by Arsène Wenger: This autobiography by the legendary Arsenal manager offers a reflective look at his journey from rural France to becoming one of the most influential figures in modern football. Wenger explores his football philosophy, leadership style, and the challenges of managing at the highest level for over two decades. It’s a thoughtful and inspiring read for anyone interested in sport, coaching, and any Arsenal supporter!

Mrs Guest

On Tuesday 3rd June Year 8 students from the College and St Mary’s Star of the Sea combined for Year 8 Social Day. Overall, it was a fantastic day which involved activities in Dance, Trivia, Sport and Art on the grounds of Edmund Rice College, followed by a Disco in the evening at St Mary’s.

Andrew Marsh                              Rosanna Stella
Year 8 Pastoral Coordinator        Assistant Year 8 Coordinator

Did you know that approximately 1.3 million people die each year as a result of road traffic crashes.

About three-quarters (73%) of all road traffic deaths occur among young males under the age of 25.

More than half of all road traffic deaths are among vulnerable road users: pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.

Between 20 and 50 million people suffer non-fatal injuries, with many incurring a disability as a result of their injury.

Road traffic injuries cause considerable economic losses to individuals, their families, and to nations as a whole

Road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5–29 years and the main reason behind these road accidents is not following or knowing traffic and road safety rules.

Trafficquiz.com is a free-to-use website developed with the aim of spreading awareness regarding traffic rules and road safety rules. Families are encouraged to take the quizzes and explore some of the resources shared on this website in an endeavour to reduce the impact of traffic accidents, particularly on young men.

Opens Futsal Regional Championship – Year 12 A team

Last year the Year 11 B opens Futsal team tragically lost the final by one goal to the then Year 12 A Edmund Rice team. This year there was unfinished business to avenge.

On the morning of the tournament, we lost last years golden boot Tzar Harb through injury as well as Willem Robaard was under an injury cloud. We decided to call up Zac Da Rocha to fill the gap. It was rumoured that Zac could fill many positions as well as team assistant manager and wily tactician.

The preliminary rounds went to plan. Wins against Bowral High, 4:0, Wollongong High, 3:0, Warrawong High, 5:1 and finally Five Islands College, 9:1, saw our team top their group and progress to the final series. After a hard fought 5:3 win against a strong Figtree High side in the quarters we were then matched up against Holy Spirit who were swept away by 3 goals to 1.We were excited to learn that our B side brushed off their earlier inconsistent form by also moving into the final with some strong results.

Déjà vu! Same as last year! Both teams in the final! Only over confidence could stand in our way to finally lift the trophy. Unbelievably the Year 11 B team, under the guidance of Mr Belsito, brought their A game to the final and really served it up to us taking the lead early. Noah Hewett brought us level but then again and again the B’s hit the lead only for Michael Marijan and then a brilliant ball movement saw Noah Hewett unleash a thunderous strike into the top corner, where usually only spiders live to bring it back to 3:3. With time ticking away and the B side under the pump another raid into their goal mouth resulted in a penalty which Oliver converted and finish off our noisy B side neighbours. I guess you could liken it to us being Man City and…..

This game brought everything you would expect in a final between two very talented sides. Again, as last year, the B’s will have to wait until next year to lift the trophy. In Justin Delovski we were fortunate to have the standout goalkeeper of the tournament. It would have been easier to take the Crown Jewels than get the ball past him.

Goals were shared around: Oliver Morgan (9), Noah Hewett (7), Ryan Plumridge (7), Michael Marijan (5), Alexander Heron (2) and Zachary Da Rocha (3), who asked me to include that he also got 3 assists. To pick the player of the tournament would have been a tough assignment, as indicated by the goal stats, we had clearly the 3 best outfield players on show.

Congratulations to all players from both teams for their commitment, sportsmanship and exceptional representatives of our College.

Both teams look forward to the next stage of the state Futsal opens competition in term 3.

Garry Cajar

Edmund Rice College sent two teams to the NSW Under 16 Futsal Regional Qualifier on Tuesday 4 June. Both teams performed strongly in their respective groups with the ERC16A team winning all four games and the ERC16B team winning three out of four, narrowly losing to Belconnen High School. Unfortunately this meant that the two teams had to meet in the quarter-final, which produced the game of the day – the 16A going ahead 6-3 only for the 16B team to come back to 6-5 and just losing in the final seconds of the game.

The ERC16A team then went on to play Holy Spirit College, winning 3-2 in the semi final and then facing TIGS in the final where a close game finished in a tight win to ERC with the score 3-2. This means that ERC now qualifies for the state championships in September.

ERC16A – Andre Dzeparoski, Samuel Jovanovski, Jarrah Longbottom, AJ Duffin, Leo Halios-Lewis, Christian Ugonotti, Cohen Martins, Lucas Tancevski

ERC16B – Lukas Markovski, Aidan Rayner, Xavier Godbee, Samuel Ugonotti, Isaac Papakosmas, Fabian Gaudiosi, Lewis Andrews, Stefen Anagnostopoulos

Coaches: Mr Tyler and Mr Crapis

The Edmund Rice College U14 Futsal team delivered an outstanding performance at the recent competition held at Berkeley Sports Stadium. The boys cruised through the group stage, dominating their opponents and scoring over 25 goals. In the finals series, they continued their impressive form with an 11-0 win over Illawarra Sports High in the quarter-final, a 6-0 victory against HSC in the semi-final, and a commanding 9-1 win over Bulli in the grand final. It was a fantastic day and a brilliant all-round performance from the team, who now progress to the State Tournament later in the year.

Mr Crapis

ERC U14s Rugby League team continued with their winning ways, going through undefeated in the recent Steelers Cup and Second Round of the NSW Cochrane Cup which was played at Ulladulah on Wednesday 4 June.

Opponents and results on the day were as follows:

• Game 1: Lumen Christi Catholic College (Eden) – 16-0 win.
• Game 2: Mulwaree High School (Goulburn) – 24-0 win.
• Semi Final: Mulwaree High School (Goulburn) – 22-4 win.
• Final: Nowra High School – 22-0 win.

This impressive set of results qualifies Edmund Rice College for the next round of the prestigious Cochrane Cup, which is a statewide Catholic School, Rugby League knockout competition. Each member of the squad is determined to build upon the success of winning the U13 Country Cup and NRL U13 Schoolboy Trophy in 2024.

Mr Marsh

As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting VET students, Edmund Rice College was privileged to welcome experienced Tennis Coach Stuart O’Shannessy for a guest presentation to our Year 11 students studying a Certificate III in Fitness. Stuart is currently the Managing director at Complete Tennis working predominantly out of the Beaton Park Tennis Centre in Gwynneville.

Coach O’Shannessy, who brings years of expertise in both grassroots and elite tennis coaching, provided an insightful session that blended practical advice with personal stories from his career in the sport and fitness industry. Students were given a unique opportunity to learn about the realities of working in the sport and fitness industry—from the challenges of coaching elite athletes to the satisfaction of helping young players develop resilience, discipline, and a love for the game.

During the session, students asked a wide range of thoughtful questions covering topics such as coaching philosophy, career pathways, industry qualifications, and the role of mental toughness in athletic development. Stuart’s reflections on the importance of adaptability, communication, and lifelong learning left a lasting impression on the group.

This visit was not only inspiring but also highly educational, offering students a clearer picture of the diverse opportunities available in the sport and fitness sector. It also aligned with our curriculum goal of fostering career exploration through real-world engagement.

We extend our sincere thanks to Stuart O’Shannessy for sharing his time and expertise, and for helping our students take another meaningful step toward their future goals.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

ERC student Gwil Barnes of Year 8 recently competed in the NSW Surfing State Longboard Championships at Coffs Harbour put on by Surfing NSW.

Gwil had some amazing results and came 9th in the Open Mens Division and 3rd in the U18 Division.

He also boasted the Highest Wave score of the event and also the 2nd & 3rd highest Heat Total scores for event in the U18 Division

The Event was at Arrawarra Headland and Diggers Beach, the surf was challenging for all competitors.

Congratulations Gwil!

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

During Week 6 – Mr Timpano had the pleasure of meeting Olympic gold medallist Haruka Tachimoto, who visited the College. Haruka, who won gold in Judo at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games, generously shared insights into Japanese culture and the valuable life skills developed through the sport of judo, including discipline, respect, and perseverance.

A special thank you to Aiden Heaton (Year 9) for his assistance in translating during Haruka’s visit. His support helped make the experience engaging and meaningful. The College wishes Haruka are enjoyable stay in Australia.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

The College will be participating in the Diocesan Hockey Championships on Monday 23 June. The event coordinators are currently looking for umpires for the event. Umpires will be paid cash on the day, at around the $150 mark.

If any member of the College community is interested, please contact me at the College.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

The Disability Trust has recently collaborated with the University of Wollongong regarding an internship for young adults aged 17-30 with NDIS funding. This collaboration represents a meaningful opportunity to deepen community impact by supporting young people with disability to develop career skills, gain confidence, and grow into fulfilling employment pathways.

This program is designed to provide young adults with a pathway to open employment through real-world work experience, hands-on training, work-based coaching, and personalized support. Interns will gain practical experience in various business roles, with support from a host lead and support workers whilst on site.

The link for the website offers further information as well as an enquiry form:

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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 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.