Parent & Student Matters 

What's happening in the College? 

• Year 7 Science
• The Science Experience - for Year 9 & 10 students
• Medals for Marathon Readers
• Maths Drop In
• After School Study Year 5 - 11

Year 7 Science 

Year 7 students have been learning about observation, measurement, accuracy, inferences and prediction in Science this week. Boys took accurate measurements using different pieces of scientific equipment. They also experimented with milk, food colouring and detergent to make observations, inferences and predictions. Here are some of Mrs Schuster’s Year 7 students in action.

Mrs Jo Schuster - Science Coordinator

The Science Experience

The Science Experience is a fun 3 or 4 days of science activities for Year 9 and 10 students.

Each program is designed to provide students who have an interest in science with an opportunity to engage in a wide range of fascinating science activities under the guidance of scientists who love their work.

The program takes place in over thirty-five universities and tertiary institutions, within many different laboratories and lecture theatres across Australia. Participants perform experiments in the laboratories, meet and hear senior lecturers in the lecture theatres, attend site visits and walk around and experience what it is like to be on the campus of a university or tertiary institution.

The program also provides information about further studies in science, technology and engineering. It highlights the wide range of careers that allow students to pursue their interest and abilities in the sciences.

Dates are currently being released for the 2021 Experience; to keep up to date and register, go here: https://www.scienceexperience.com.au/

Mrs Jo Schuster - Science Coordinator

Medals for Marathon Readers 

In the spirit of our student-lead themes “Get Amongst it” (2019) and “Pursue Your Passion”(2020), this year’s “Better Together” truly supports every student in participating in the many opportunities presented by an education at St Pius X College. In this case, the chance to take part in the Premier’s Reading Challenge (PRC) till it ends in Year 9. 

This year, Evan Ausling, Joshua Bewley, Zachary Hollinger, Aiden Saraceno and Luca van Vuuren (pictured in the banner) did just that to complete the PRC every year from Year 3 to Year 9. Each logging a total of 140 books in this time. While many start the PRC, only 1% of participants in NSW complete the PRC; marking our medallists as members of an elite reading group. 

Our Academic Prefects, Aiden, Angelo and Charlie commended the boys on their personal achievement as well as their contribution to building our reading culture. Mr Couani presented the students with the prestigious medals and Mr Damo awarded the certificates at this week’s Assembly. Ms Iwatani, Ms Martin, Mr Webster and I joined the presentation party as representative of all the teachers from the Primary to the Senior School who have supported this journey as well as to applaud their achievement. 

Congratulations to Evan, Joshua, Zachary, Aiden and Luca and to their parents for their support and encouragement over the last 7 years. Mr Cunneen photographed our champion readers, though Evan is absent.

Mrs Karen Keighery - Senior Teacher/Librarian

Maths Drop-In 

All students in Years 7 - 12 are welcome to Maths Drop-in. The sessions will run each Tuesday & Thursday morning 7.40 am - 8.40 am in C1.

With assessments approaching fast, concepts are taught, practice papers are completed and problems are solved all with the company of your mates. 

This is the ideal place where students can come and feel comfortable to ask questions and nut out some challenging problems. Rewards are given, laughs are heard and words of encouragement are shared. Come along and be a part of the team in C1.

After School Study Year 5 - 11

All Year 5 - 11 students are invited to After School Study from 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm in the classroom above Student Reception.

During Term 1 this opportunity is available on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and concludes on Thursday 25 March.

Students must sign in on arrival and have sufficient work or reading material for an hour. Students are not permitted mobile phones or food in the study space.

Individual guidance with tasks is provided by Mrs Gunns.

Mrs Annabel Gunns - Diverse Learning Coordinator