St Benedict's Catholic College
Newsletter Friday 5 March 2021
PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
Monday 8 March is International Women’s Day. The theme for 2021 is ‘Women in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future in a COVID-19 World. The theme celebrates the tremendous efforts of women and girls around the world in shaping a more equal future.
At St Benedict’s we aim that all graduates both male and female will be active leaders who apply fair judgement. In particular, we work to build our students’ confidence and resilience so they will exercise agency, that is a sense of responsibility to participate in the world, and in so doing, to influence people, leaders and policymakers for the better.
This week, I was privileged to attend the Year 12 retreat at Kaloona. To ‘retreat’ means to withdraw from life’s challenges, to reflect and renew, this provides our Year 12 students in their final year of secondary schooling, the time and space to reconnect with each other, and set goals that will pave the way for achieving their hopes and dreams. The participation and maturity displayed by our Year 12 students at the retreats this week, gives us great confidence that these students will use their talents and skills to build a more just community.
At St Benedict’s we hope that all our graduates will be in a world where they have the opportunity and encouragement to “demonstrate an understanding of their own strengths, and how these can help them to flourish, in order to enrich their lives and the lives of others”.
Below is a prayer provided by Caritas Australia for International Women’s Day
Enrolments for Year 7 2022 at St Benedict’s College are now open. Enrolment packages are available from our College office. Students who enrol at our College are imbued with our rich and powerful Benedictine charism so that they are able to:
demonstrate a spirit of perseverance and resilience.
act with respect towards themselves, others, our college and our world.
listen and respond with the ’ear of their heart’.
practise stewardship and conservation.
display a spirit of hospitality and welcome.
have ‘something to strive for and nothing to run from’.
The qualities listed above were evident in the many students who showcased College life on Wednesday evening. Together with our talented and dedicated staff, prospective parents and students were able to view our outstanding facilities, contemporary educational programs and our wide and varied co-curricular opportunities.
Kind regards,
Kerrie Piatek
Principal
VIA CHARACTER STRENGTHS
Focus on what can be achieved , not your limitations
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
HSC Improvement Workshops
Last week saw the release of a series of Video’s designed to help our senior families and students to understand the demands, challenges and supports in Year 12. In particular, information around study, careers and wellbeing were presented. It was pleasing to see so many families engage in this mode of delivering information. I would encourage any families needing support to continue to engage with the College, so we can work together towards the best possible outcomes.
Swimming Carnival
Our Swimming Carnival was held last week, this year we planned on having Years 7, 12 and serious competitors at the carnival. Unfortunately, with storms forecasted, Year 7 had to remain at school on the day and the carnival had to be wound up early due to weather conditions. In the end, students enjoyed the day and the house spirit on display was impressive. Congratulations to Miss Paton and the team for their organisation of the day.
Year 12 Retreat
This week saw our Year 12 students go on their Senior Retreat. This is an important part of our College life and allows students time to reflect on their relationships with God, their families and each other. It links in the key Benedictine virtues and pillars of our College. Students have reported that it was a wonderful experience, and all should be congratulated on their efforts.
Year 7 2022 Information evening
On Wednesday we held our Year 7 2022 Information Showcase evening. We had a new format this year and the feedback from the visiting families was very positive. The highlights of the night though would have to be our staff and students. Over 150 students volunteered to give up their time to show just what an amazing community we have. Our staff were also amazing, showing off some of the great things that happen at Bennies.
Cross Country Carnival
Today is our Cross Country Carnival, and we are looking forward to a successful day – and we hope the rain stays away.
Mr David Costin
Assistant Principal.
P&F NEWS
The first P&F meeting & AGM for 2021 was held last week. The P&F Executive were elected with Fiona Place as President, Karen Caccamo as Vice President, Nichole Pace as Treasurer and Anita Borg as Secretary. Tracy Malcaus continues to be part of the team in managing the uniform clothing pool. The minutes from the meeting will be available on Compass, once finalised.
A P&F calendar of events will be made available in the near future. A Mother’s Day hospitality committee is currently being established for a Mother’s Day celebration. If you would like to volunteer, all help is welcomed, so please send your details via email to pandf@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au.
Reminders
- Keep Covid safe: If your child is sick, keep them home. See below for Covid updates.
- Please do not use Disabled Parking Spaces without a Disability Sticker.
- Tuesday afternoon is Sports Day therefore, if you are collecting your child early they must have a note to remain at school.
DATES TO REMEMBER
- Friday 12 March -DIOCESAN Swimming.
- Friday 12 March -Year 7 Dose 1 Vaccinations.
- Thursday 18 March - Year 12 - Geography Excursion - National Maritime Museum.
- Thursday 18 March - Year 12 Modern History Excursion - Jewish Museum.
- Friday 19 March - DIOCESAN Soccer Girl's 13’s & Years 7-9.
- Friday 19 March - DIOCESAN Secondary Boys Soccer.
FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MISSION AND VISION
SENIOR RETREAT
A retreat and experience that has strengthened the Year Group and consolidated new plus, existing friendships. It was really a special time for these outstanding young men and women we have as students in the College. Year 12 went to two different sites for the retreat - BLUE GUM (Blue Mountains) and KOLOONA (Shoalhaven). This newsletter features a reflection from Blue Gum.
We were on to a winner, with the outstanding weather on Monday morning, all students present and a fabulous run on the Northern Road to get to Springwood in the Blue Mountains. Students arrived at 10 am and quickly immersed themselves in the ambience of this wonderful site. From the outdoor seating areas, the recreation hall, games room, tennis courts and the bushland.
The Theme of the retreat was "Looking in the mirror" and centred on the Scripture passage "For where your treasure is, there will be your heart also " (Mt 6:21). Therefore it is an opportunity for the students to challenge themselves in their mature growth into adults as they become witnesses to God’s love in the world. The 3 days were spent listening and sharing with one another, looking at one's journey and individual goals and drawing inspiration for the Scriptures and key people in the world such as Turia Pitt and Nick Vujicic who have overcome challenges to shine in what they do.
Students also had the opportunity to reflect on their faith plus the positive influences and experiences that have shaped their lives. Looking at “My Journey” we spoke about growing up, maturing and moving forward. In order to grow, we must stop and reflect on what has happened, to know where we have come from. Looking back on our lives helps us understand ourselves deeper. While our past does not completely make us who we are it definitely has an impact on how we grow and move forward through life. It is important to acknowledge.
Mrs Newell led the group in a most beautiful meditation on Tuesday morning and this was followed by Mr O'Donnell sharing with students his passions (gifts) and talents.
A definite highlight was decorating individual treasure affirmation chests and each student had the opportunity to write words of encouragement or thanks or affirmation to their peers. Receiving the affirmations on the last day was quite ‘emotional’ for many. Words that will carry and uplift students through the HSC and into the near future.
Jacob M
Initially going into the retreat I wasn’t expecting much - but after we got there and got comfortable, began the various activities I felt like I could open up and share in front of my peers. I could not do this before. I also was able to reflect on my journey and the year ahead. The most enjoyable part for me was the discussion about what we think of ourselves and the free time because it allowed me to connect more with my friends and talk to others in the Year Group that I have not had much to do with.
Kai S
During my time at retreat we had an opportunity to “look in the mirror“ and reflect and be aware of others in the cohort who are on different journeys. There were many opportunities for sharing and communication during the sessions where we learnt about the “signposts and crossroads” that students and staff experienced during their journey. These experiences brought me closer to many people who I’ve had little contact with prior to retreat. I feel as though this retreat strengthened the relationships and friendships as well as extended a sense of belonging and mutual understanding between the students of Year 12.
Ben W
This retreat was incredible. It was such a great opportunity for us to strengthen our friendships and develop new ones. Hearing everyone's unique stories and how far they’ve come really brought us together and made us realise like we were not alone in our journey. I’d just like to thank the teachers who came with us on retreat and made it such a special experience, without their hard work it would not have been the same. The memories and relationships created on this retreat will remain with us for years to come. It was such an eye-opening experience that has set us up for tackling the HSC.
Katherine
Year 12 retreat was absolutely phenomenal, exceeding every expectation I had walking in. It was such an enlightening experience, allowing me to grow and develop closer and stronger bonds to my peers, myself and my faith. It was great learning so much more about the journeys, experiences and emotions of my fellow Year 12s, as it really assured me of my own journey, and I believe it strengthened our connection as a grade - preparing us for the crazy 9 months of HSC schooling ahead! Similarly, it was fantastic to connect and build a closer bond with the teachers, unlike one built in the classroom. This retreat was undoubtedly filled with many laughs, tears (good ones of course), yummy food, and memories that I will cherish for a lifetime. Thank you to Mrs Logue and all the teachers involved for organising such an amazing experience!!
Lucrecia
The retreat was an experience that I can’t really describe in words. I came into retreat with a lot of nerves and anxiety, but I was able to come away with a weight lifted off my shoulders. I was able to conquer my fears and talk to people in my year that I had only seen or briefly conversed with in class. My relationships with my friends became stronger, and I was able to get to know myself in ways I couldn’t before.
A massive thank you to the staff who came on retreat (at Blue Gum) - Mrs Newell, Mrs Mizzi, Mrs Settineri Ms Brown, Mr Jolly, Mr O'Donnell and Mr Rowles. I was privileged to lead and work alongside this marvellous team. The staff who led the retreat at Koloona are to be commended too - Mrs Grana, Mr Turner, Ms Joyce, Mrs Holland, Mr Gavin and Mr Agoo. We are so blessed at the College to have such dedicated staff. Gratitude and thanks are extended to the Staff back at the College who covered all classes and to the Office Staff for their preparations too.
YEAR 7 FLOURISH DAY
Last Friday Year 7 experienced their first Spirituality Day at the College presented by the NET team from the Wollongong Diocese. The NET team is a group of young, vibrant and encouraging adults that share their knowledge, thoughts and experiences about life events.
The theme of the day was ‘As you find me’. It was about opening students' hearts and minds in understanding that we are all unique and born in the image of God. Students heard from various people about the challenges they have faced with self-image and how in today’s society due to social media and peer pressure, it can influence our thoughts and views about ourselves. The team emphasised that we are all unique and with God close by we can conquer anything. All individuals are made in the image of God.
One of the activities that the students engaged in was pairing up with another student whereby they were required to write down three qualities they saw in the other person. The students embraced this activity and seeing the joy and happiness they showed when they were discussing the qualities with their partner was heart-warming.
The day ended with a dance reflection by the presenters followed by a quiet prayer reflection allowing the students to 'be still with God’ and put their prayers to him.
The students had a fantastic day and being able to witness the friendships and personal growth develop in front of our eyes was uplifting.
Thank you to the teachers who supported, guided and were present on the day.
Miss Julia Liska
Year 7 Coordinator
YEAR 12 GEOGRAPHY FIELDWORK
On Monday 22 February, Year 12 Geography students undertook fieldwork at Tamburlaine Organic Wines, Pokolbin in the Hunter Valley region, learning about the operation of the business and the implementation of sustainable, environmental practices in the field of viticulture.
Congratulations to all students on their fantastic participation and engagement on the day.
Miss Joyce
YEAR 11 SENIOR GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIP
On Thursday 4 March, Year 11 Geography students travelled to Minnamurra Rainforest to conduct fieldwork in order to investigate this unique rainforest environment. The class demonstrated their strengths of teamwork and perseverance, working together to conduct transect and quadrat sampling, complete a vegetation study, and collect weather data including air and soil temperatures, wind speed, humidity, and light intensity.
Students were guided through the rainforest where they observed ancient trees such as the Red Cedar, and were privy to expert information from the National Park guide. Overall, it was a valuable experience for students which aided in their understanding of the operation of the four spheres in rainforest environments.
I would like to thank all Year 11 Geography students for their enthusiastic participation on the day, and extend a special thanks to Mr McAteer for driving us there and back on the College bus.
Miss Joyce
YEAR 10 GEOGRAPHY FIELDWORK
On Tuesday 23 February, Year 10 Geography students practised collecting primary data by creating a field sketch to show the natural and cultural features of the environment at our College. The sketches were then annotated to show the interactions between the four spheres, which can lead to a change in our environment.
Miss Joyce
FUTURE SPORTS STARS
Last week, Lauren R in Year 8, competed at Illawong Track Challenge, in the hope of qualifying for Nationals. Lauren raced up an age group in the 90m hurdles and came 2nd, breaking a club record, and qualifying for the Australian National Championships.
Lauren will be competing at the State Titles this week, and is also competing in Canberra at the ACT State Championships.
Congratulations to Lauren and we wish her luck in her upcoming competitions.
Congratulations to Lachlan H for being selected for the NSWCCC Softball team.
We wish Lachlan the best of luck as he moves forward to compete at the NSW All Schools Selections carnival in March.
Well done, Lachlan!
Congratulations to our MVP Raffle winners from last week - Amelia E & John B!
Our Girl’s MISA teams headed out for their third week of competition, all teams played well and showed great team spirit.
Well done to our MISA Girls Indoor Cricket team for coming away with their first win this week.
Congratulations to our MISA MVPs:
A reminder about sun safety - All students need to bring and wear a hat for sport each week. Sunscreen is also available and offered to students at all sports, please be vigilant with your sun safety and ensure you are applying sunscreen.
Yours in Sport
Miss Lisa Paton
Sport Coordinator
OPEN BOYS TOUCH FOOTBALL
The Opens boys touch team played with a competitive spirit all day. The teamwork, enthusiasm and engagement were evident from game 1, through to our last game.
Although we didn't win the competition, the effort displayed on the field was outstanding and the boys represented the college with pride. Joshua Q led from the front all day and was instrumental in the team's success on the day. Joshua B and Anthony J were also key contributors.
13 YEAR'S BOYS TOUCH FOOTBALL
The 13 Year's Boys Touch Football team left the College with great excitement and anticipation about their upcoming Diocesan carnival. This would be their first journey into the very competitive nature of Diocesan sport.
The boys worked their hardest all day and played some fantastic passages of touch football and finished with the best results of any of the three teams the College sent. The boys would like to acknowledge and pay thanks to Miss Paton, for her help in organising the team. They look forward to next year and the chance to improve their results.
The Team
Cameron M, Thomas B, Brodie B, Hayden D, Bodi T, Luke R, Koby R, Blake M, Noah A, Jack G, Thomas B, Jude H & Nicholas S.
DIO TENNIS TEAM
What an excellent day of Tennis where the Benedictine Spirit was on full display for all to see.
Firstly, a very big thank you to Mr McAteer for delivering this wonderful team safely to and from the Wollongong DIO Tennis Tournament.
To our St Benedict’s Team, a massive Congratulations to all of you.
Girls team:
Emily M, Ellira R, Fenet T and Annaliese A.
Boys team:
Jorden G, James D, Joseph Cand Patrick M.
Each player displayed fantastic sportsmanship and a determined effort across each of their matches, giving their very best every time they stepped out onto the courts.
Sadly, for our girls’ team, they were up against the favourites Holy Spirit College in the first round. All the girls gave it their best but were unable to match it with this year’s eventual winners. However, a special mention must go to Ellira R, who really shined, winning her singles match 6 love against a highly fancied Holy Spirit player.
The girls then went into the consolation draw, where they meet John Therry and won easily. They went into the Final against Corpus Christi and eventually won a tightly fought tie breaker contest.
Alas, the boy's team tried gallantly but did not win against St Johns in their first round. They also moved into the consolation draw playing Corpus Christi and were eventually outplayed. Both of our teams were very competitive and will be much better for the experience, ready for next year, 2022. I am proud of their efforts, especially with little preparation time on the court.
After a great day of quality tennis, all went home proud, knowing that everyone gave their best on the day and with even more determination to come back and do it all again next year. The final wrap up saw the girl's team winners of the consolation draw, while the boy's team will continue to grow and be stronger for next year.
Thank you and well played.
Mr Rowles
St Benedict's Team Manager
13 YEAR'S GIRLS DIOCESAN TOUCH FOOTBALL
The girls represented the college with pride at the DIO Touch Carnival. They showed enthusiasm, teamwork and a never give up attitude.
Try of the day was awarded to Sage T - who took a fingertip interception and then put on the jets for a half-field length try. Overall, the girls should be proud of how they conducted themselves at the carnival!
Mr Wisbey.
BENNY'S CLUBS
SOCIAL JUSTICE
This week the Bennie's Social Action group sold Zooper Doopers after Sport on Tuesday. We were so happy to see the number of students who turned up to buy one for $1. All funds raised will go towards Project Compassion. These will be sold every Tuesday after Sport outside the Library for the remainder of the term.
We would also like to encourage everyone to continue donating to our Project Compassion boxes during Strive. The money we raise will make a huge difference to the people who need it. If you are interested in joining the Social Justice team, then please come to our next meeting or contact Mrs Castelli. Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far.
KNITTING AND CROCHET CLUB
Knitting and Crochet Club began this week. If you are interested in joining this club or would like to contribute to the club then please contact Mrs Wardley or Mrs Castelli and head to the Library at Lunch every Wednesday.
ART CLUB
Art Club has made a comeback this year! If you are interested in joining, then please go to C4 every Wednesday at Lunch or see Mrs Castelli or Mrs Kovacevic.
Year 12 are working hard on their body of works in their Senior Art Rooms
YOUTH MINISTRY NEWS
LIVE EVENTS
LIVE aims to draw young people into responsible participation in the life, mission and work of the Catholic faith community and to forge a sense of community and spirituality amongst them.
This year our Youth Ministry will be led by a group of ten students across Years 10 and 11. The students have a range of initiatives ready for this year and can’t wait to share them with the college community.
Miss Tabitha Brown
Youth Ministry Coordinator
HELP KEEP OUR STUDENTS SAFE
ADDRESS:
Ranier Schoolwear Unit 5/6-8 Porrende Street Narellan 2567.
For online purchasing and appointments visit: shop.ranier.com.au
We offer:
- Collect from Shop
- Collect from School
- Home Delivery.
CONTACT US via email narellan@ranier.com.au
Phone: 02 4647 8942
Responses will be provided during opening hours. For more immediate assistance, Head Office details are:
Online: ranier.com.au/contact
Email: custservice@ranier.com.au
Phone: 02 8337 7290
PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS FOR SHOP ENTRY
- Please do not attend the shop if you are unwell
- Limited people permitted in the shop at any time
CAFE NEWS
ABSENCES
We ask Parents/Carers to only report all day absences via COMPASS, part day absences should be reported to the office via phone on 4631 5300 or email to info@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au
If a student is having an absence of 3 days or more, a request should be sent to the Principal via email to info@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au
If a student is having an absence of 10 days or more an Application for Extended Leave should be completed and submitted to the office with a copy of the students itinerary, if the absence is within Australia or a copy of flight tickets if the extended leave is to be outside Australia. A copy of the Application for Extended Leave can be found here .
FIRST AID NOTICE
Given the presence of COVID-19 coupled with the commencement of the influenza (flu) season, our school has an important responsibility to provide a safe environment for students and staff. Your child should not attend school if they are showing any flu like symptoms.
If a student is sent to the office with flu like symptoms we will place them in isolation and call their parents to organise for them to be collected as soon as possible.
Your support in keeping our school healthy and safe is appreciated.
LOST & FOUND
We have a number of unmarked clothing items, jewellery, reading glasses and containers which would like to be returned to their owners. Please ask your child/ren to come to the office if they may have lost one of these items.
We ask parents to check that all their child/rens items are marked clearly with their name in permanent marker.
Any items not collected will be given to the P & F Clothing Pool at the end of Term 3.
P & F CLOTHING POOL
Please contact the P&F via pandf@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au with a list of your requirements and a contact telephone number and Tracey will contact you with availability.
CatholicCare now offers the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) in the Macarthur region, helping seniors to access entry-level support services to live independently and safely at home.
If your grandparents, parent(s) or anyone you know requires aged care assistance at home, please ask them to call 4628 0044 and ask for Melissa or Colleen.