SJRC Newsletter: Term 2 Week 4- 23rd May 2025

Our hearts go out to everyone in our local community who has been affected by the recent flooding. The images and stories of homes damaged and lives disrupted have deeply saddened us all. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you, who are grappling with the aftermath of this event.

We want to express our profound gratitude to all those who have worked tirelessly to assist victims during this challenging time. In particular, we extend our deepest appreciation to our incredible emergency services personnel who have demonstrated extraordinary courage, dedication, and selflessness. Their efforts have been truly remarkable.

As a College community that is an extension of St Agnes' Catholic Parish community, we stand ready to offer our support in any way we can. If you or your family are in need of assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to the College. We are here for you during this trying season.

We look forward to welcoming students back for Week 5.

A Prayer in the Spirit of Nano Nagle:

God of compassion, we give thanks for the unwavering spirit of those who offer comfort and aid in times of struggle. May your grace strengthen all who are recovering from the recent floods, and inspire us to be instruments of your love and care, just as Nano Nagle reached out to those in need. Amen.

Venerable Nano Nagle… Pray for us
St Joseph the worker.. Pray for us
St Mary of the Cross… Pray for us

Year 12 Retreat - Bonny Hills

The recent three-day Year 12 Retreat at Bonny Hills was a truly memorable and transformative experience for all involved. I like to start by thanking Ms Flanagan, our Year 12 Leader of Wellbeing, for her retreat organisation. It was amazing, thank you!

Day 1 began with team-building activities, trust exercises, and meaningful discussions focused on hopes and fears for the future. It was a powerful and heartfelt start to the retreat, laying the foundation for deeper connections among students.

Day 2 invited self-reflection and gratitude, particularly for the significant people in our lives. Between thoughtful conversations and plenty of delicious food, students also enjoyed a range of activities—Just Dance, board games, and ping pong brought out their competitive spirit, while the evening’s dress-up parade delivered plenty of laughter and lasting memories.

Day 3 concluded the retreat on a high note, with a beautiful and moving student-led liturgy. Every student played a part, contributing to a sense of unity and shared purpose.

We returned home tired, but with full hearts. The students left Bonny Hills stronger, more connected, and better prepared for the journey ahead. Witnessing their growth and togetherness throughout the three days was a privilege.

A sincere thank you to the dedicated staff who gave up time with their own families to support our students on this retreat. Your guidance, care, and commitment are deeply appreciated. 

Pentecost Pilgrimage - Sunday 8th June 2025

All are warmly invited to participate in a special Pentecost Pilgrimage on Sunday, 8th June 2025. This sacred walk of faith will bring together three local parishes in prayer and unity as we journey toward the heart of our Church.

Inspired by the ancient Catholic tradition of pilgrimage and the theme of the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025 – 'Pilgrims of Hope' – this day is a chance to respond to Pope Francis’ call to walk together in faith, reconciliation, and hope. Join us as we walk in the spirit of Pentecost and the Holy Spirit, sharing in the joy of community and God’s enduring love.

Port Macquarie Details

Start Time: 5:30 am

Starting Location: The Francis Retreat (2 Thomson Pl, Bonny Hills NSW 2445). Option to join the pilgrimage at Lake Cathie or two locations in Port Macquarie.

Ending Location: St Agnes’ Catholic Church, Port Macquarie

Contact: Zac Parnell Email: zac.parnell@stagnesparish.org.au

How to Join
To register, please complete the Online Pentecost Pilgrimage Registration Form.
Please complete one form per participant.

We warmly invite all Year 8 students and their families to attend our Year 9 Information Evening on Monday 2nd June in the College Hall commencing at 6.00 pm This important event will provide valuable insights into the changes we are making to elective subjects available for Year 9 2026 and how these choices can influence each student’s learning journey through to senior secondary school.

As students move into Year 9, they have the opportunity to personalise their own learning and choose a pattern of study that is unique to their interests. The new elective short courses offer an exciting opportunity to explore these interests, develop new skills, and begin tailoring their education to suit potential career aspirations.

During the evening, we will outline the changes we are making to the traditional elective courses offered across Years 9 and 10 as we move to an expanded range of short course offerings in Year 9 and an expanded range of elective offerings in Year 10.

The evening will also provide an overview of educational pathways leading into Year 11 and 12, specifically focusing on the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC), including ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) pathways for university, and alternate options such as school-based apprenticeships, traineeships, and VET (Vocational Education and Training) courses.

We strongly encourage all families to attend and partner with us, as this evening marks a key milestone in each student’s educational journey.

Ian Lutton
Assistant Principal - Mission

Hard copy

The College has some hard copies of the Year 10 consent form. If required, please ask your child to collect the package from the College office.

A printable copy of the consent form is available below to download and print. This form has already been sent to Year 7. Year 10 families will recieve notification via the Compass App as soon as we receive the printable digital copy.

We are excited to welcome 14 Ugandan UBUNTU AFRICA friends to our College in Week 5.

Fourteen inspiring African Children's Choir graduates embark on an unforgettable eight-week tour along Australia’s eastern coast every two years. They raise vital funds for the education of underprivileged children in Uganda, and with each performance, they share their stories and vibrant culture.

These 14 young people are gifted singers, musicians and dancers who were part of the globally acclaimed African Children’s Choir. We actually hosted the children in 2015. These young people have recently graduated from High School through the sponsorship of the African Children’s Choir and are ready to make a significant impact back in their villages in Uganda. As they gear up for university, they are excited to share with us how their dreams have been realised through this inspirational tour. Their Australian Tour is titled “Colour My World”.

Our Drumline and Choir will also be participating in a Masterclass workshop with the group while they are here which is very exciting.

Where can I see them?

Everyone has the opportunity to attend a concert at the Glasshouse on Thursday, 29th May, where they will bring a dynamic performance to our local community, featuring our College performers also.

Book your tickets now and be part of something truly special!  Glasshouse Tickets