From the Principal
- Reflection
- Celebrating Excellence in Drama
- Supporting our Year 11 students through their Preliminary Examinations
- Staying focused and respectful the final week of term
- Junior School shines at Year 5 and 6 showcase events
- Year 12 Graduation - A final message to our Year 12 students
- Outstanding Results at the ISA Athletics Carnival
- Key Dates
Reflection
The struggles of life to find success
A boy watched a butterfly struggle to break out of its cocoon. Finally, the boy could bear to watch no more and, feeling sorry for the butterfly, he opened the cocoon and set the butterfly free. However, after spreading its wings, and flying for only a few metres, the butterfly fell to the ground and died. The boy had wanted to help the butterfly by making life easier but I fact, the butterfly needed the struggle to gain strength that would enable it to fly free and live.
Life can sometimes seem like long struggle, especially when we are young. It is frightening to think of all the mistakes we could make as we strive to grow up into confident people, able to love our own lives. However, without the struggle, with trying hard and making the effort, we can never grow. Nor can we succeed, because success in everything is based on long hours of hard work.
As the boy and the butterfly found out, there are no short cuts. Yet in the struggles of life, we can find challenge, enjoyment and wisdom. In the end we shall value the prize more deeply if we made the effort, fought the fight and achieved our goals.
As Year 12 approach their final week at St Pius X College, I hope they take time to reflect on the journey that has shaped them, the challenges they’ve faced, the joy they’ve experienced, and the wisdom they’ve gained along the way. From early on, they would have come to understand that there are no shortcuts to success. True achievement comes through living out our College motto, fide et labore, through faith and hard work.
It is this commitment that allows them to proudly call themselves sons of St Pius X College. Along the way, teachers and parents have walked beside them, lifting them up and helping them realise their true potential. Now, the time has come to let them spread their wings and step confidently into the world as a young person formed in the Pius tradition.
Please keep our Year 12 graduates in your thoughts and prayers as they conclude their time at the College and walk through its doors for the final time next Wednesday at the Graduation assembly.
Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us
St Pius X - Pray for Us
Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!
Celebrating Excellence in Drama: OnStage Nominations
We are thrilled to announce that one of our talented Year 12 students, Jonty Cortis-Jones, has been nominated for OnStage, a prestigious showcase of exemplary HSC Drama performances and major projects. Jonty’s individual performance stood out for its creativity, emotional depth, and technical skill, an outstanding achievement that reflects his dedication and passion for the dramatic arts.
In addition to Jonty’s success, we are equally proud to congratulate Jason Kristianto, John Badger-Rahme and Jonty Cortis-Jones on their group performance nomination to OnStage. Their collaborative piece demonstrated exceptional ensemble work, originality, and a powerful connection with the audience. Their ability to work together with such cohesion and purpose is a testament to their commitment and the strength of the Drama program at St Pius X College.
Alongside celebrating our students’ success in Drama, we would also like to extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Ms Penny Lindley for her unwavering support and guidance of our Drama students throughout their HSC journey. Ms Lindley’s dedication, creativity, and encouragement have played a pivotal role in helping our students reach their full potential both on and off the stage. Her commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive Drama program has not only led to this year’s OnStage nominations but has also inspired a love of performance and storytelling in so many of our young people.
These nominations are a significant honour, placing our students among the top Drama performers in the state. We commend them - and their teachers for their hard work, creativity, and courage in sharing their stories on stage.
Please join us in congratulating all our drama students on this remarkable recognition. We look forward to seeing where their talents take them next.
Supporting Our Year 11 Students Through Preliminary Examinations
This week, our Year 11 students commenced their HSC Preliminary Examinations; a significant milestone in their academic journey. These assessments play an important role in shaping their understanding of subject strengths and interests as they prepare to make informed decisions about their HSC course selections.
We encourage our community to keep our Year 11 students in their thoughts and prayers during this time. May they approach each exam with confidence and clarity, and may God guide them in their discernment as they consider the path ahead.
Staying Focused and Respectful in the Final Week of Term
As we approach the final week of Term 3, it’s important to remind all students of the value of finishing well. While the end of term can bring a sense of relief and anticipation for the holidays, it is also a time that requires continued focus, responsibility, and respect.
We’ve noticed that some students are beginning to lose sight of their academic goals and are becoming involved in behaviours that do not reflect the values of St Pius X College. This is a timely reminder to remain committed to your studies and to uphold the respectful and supportive environment we strive to maintain.
We encourage all students to stay on task, make the most of the remaining days, and continue to treat both staff and fellow students with kindness and respect. Let’s finish the term with pride, integrity, and a strong sense of community.
Junior School Shines at Year 5 and Year 6 Showcase Events
Congratulations to our Junior School students for their outstanding presentations at two recent showcase events: the Year 5 Night of the Notables and the Year 6 Day of Disasters.
The Year 5 students impressed with their well-researched and engaging portrayals of a wide variety of notable figures. Their presentations reflected not only a deep understanding of their chosen individuals but also creativity and confidence in sharing their stories with the school community.
Meanwhile, our Year 6 students captivated audiences with their innovative and informative disaster displays, demonstrating strong research skills, and a thoughtful approach to real-world issues. The quality of their work was a clear reflection of the excellence we strive for in all areas of learning.
These events showcased the enthusiasm, curiosity, and commitment of our students, and the results were a credit to the guidance and encouragement provided by our dedicated Junior School staff. Special congratulations to Mrs Greenwood, Head of Junior School, and all the teachers involved for their tireless support in helping students bring their learning to life.
We also extend a sincere thank you to all the parents who attended and supported their sons throughout these presentations. Your presence and encouragement play a vital role in fostering confidence and pride in our students’ learning.
Well done to everyone involved, your efforts continue to make the Junior School a place of vibrant learning and achievement.
Year 12 Graduation – A Final Message to Our Year 12 Students
As our Year 12 students prepare to conclude their time at St Pius X College, we take this moment to acknowledge the significance of the week ahead. Graduation marks not just the end of your school journey, but the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunity, growth, and promise.
Throughout your years at the College, you have faced challenges, celebrated achievements, and grown into young people of character, resilience, and faith. You have embodied the spirit of Fide et Labore - faith and hard work, and we are proud of the individuals you have become.
As you walk through the College gates for the final time, know that you carry with you the values, friendships, and lessons that will guide you in the years to come. We encourage you to approach the future with courage, humility, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
On behalf of the entire College community, we look forward to celebrating with you and your families next week.
Year 12 Graduation Week
2025
Tuesday 23 September
7:30 am – 8:30 am
Year 12 Graduation Breakfast and Shirt Signing
*
8:35 am – 8:50 am
College Assembly
*
8:55 am – 9:40 am
Final Year Group Assembly
(College Gym)
*
9:40 am – 10:35 am
Rehearsal for Graduation Ceremony
(College Gym)
*
11:00 am
Rite of Passage
*
12:30 pm
Dismissal
(Library will be available for students
who are remaining at school before the Mass)
*
5:00pm
Year 12 Graduation Mass
at
Our Lady of Dolours Chatswood
-------------
Wednesday 24 September
9:45 am – 11:30 am
College Farewell
at the
Christian Brothers Centre, Oxford Falls
*
Farewell Walk
Junior School as Guard of Honour
*
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Year 12 Graduation Lunch and Presentation of Awards
Outstanding Results at the ISA Athletics Carnival
Congratulations to our Athletics Team for their remarkable achievements at the ISA Athletics Carnival held on Tuesday, 16 September. It was a day filled with determination, teamwork, and personal excellence.
Our Junior Team claimed first place, the Intermediate Team secured a strong second, and our Senior Team also finished first a testament to the depth of talent and commitment across all age groups. Overall, St Pius X College placed second, missing out on the top spot by just four points. Outstanding.
The day was marked by numerous personal bests, first-place finishes, and an overwhelmingly positive spirit of support among all athletes. It was inspiring to witness the camaraderie and encouragement shared throughout the team.
A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated coaches, led by Ms Lee and Mr Steimann, whose tireless support and commitment have been instrumental in preparing our athletes. Special thanks also go to our ex-students who generously assisted with training and provided valuable support on the day.
It was a privilege to be present and see firsthand the enthusiasm, discipline, and pride our athletes brought to the track. Their efforts truly embodied the spirit of St Pius X College.
Well done to all involved!
Go the Blue and Gold!
Key Dates
Term 4
Week 1
Mon 13/10 Term 4 commences for students / Year 12 seminar program
Tues 14/10 Chapel Mass (Pius) / Year 12 seminar program
Wed 15/10 Year 7 vaccination clinic #1 / Year 12 seminar program
Thur 16/10 HSC commences - til 7/11 / Staff meeting (early finish day for students)
Sat 18/10 ISA summer sport pre-season games / IPSHA summer sport commences / MWJCA / NSTA
Dates for your diary
Tues 21/10 Year 12 2026 Parent Information Evening (6:00 pm)
Week 2 and 3 Performing Arts Festival Week
Fide et Labore
By Faith and hard work
Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever
Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal