From the Principal
- Reflection
- Living the Edmund Rice Charism: A Reflection on the St Pius X values and a call to action
- Celebrating Excellence in Learning from our Term1 reports
- Ex-Student Excels at Karate World Championships
- Reminder: Staff Formation Day tomorrow - Pupil Free Day
- Cocurricular Program
- Enrolments for Years 5 & 7 2027
- Key Dates
Reflection
Reflection: Pentecost – The Spirit That Unites and Empowers
Pentecost is one of the most powerful and inspiring moments in the Christian calendar. It marks the day when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples, filling them with courage, wisdom, and the ability to speak in many languages so they could share the message of Jesus with people from all nations.
But Pentecost is more than just a historical event - it’s a reminder that the Spirit of God is still alive and active in our world today.
A Spirit of Unity
On that first Pentecost, people from many different backgrounds and cultures gathered in Jerusalem. When the disciples began to speak, everyone could understand them in their own language. It was a moment of deep unity - a sign that God’s love is for everyone, no matter where they come from.
In our school community, we are also made up of many different people, each with unique gifts, stories, and perspectives. Pentecost invites us to celebrate that diversity and to work together in harmony, just as the early followers of Jesus did.
A Spirit of Courage
Before Pentecost, the disciples were afraid. They stayed behind closed doors, unsure of what to do next. But when the Holy Spirit came, everything changed. They were filled with boldness and joy, ready to go out and share the Good News.
We all face moments of fear or uncertainty - whether it’s speaking up in class, trying something new, or standing up for what’s right. Pentecost reminds us that we are never alone. The Spirit gives us strength to face challenges and to live with purpose and confidence.
Inspired by Edmund Rice
As we reflect on Pentecost, we can also look to the example of Blessed Edmund Rice, the founder of the Christian Brothers. Like the disciples, Edmund was moved by the Spirit to respond to the needs of his time. He saw the struggles of poor and marginalised young people and, with great faith and courage, dedicated his life to their education and dignity. His mission was not easy, but he trusted in God’s guidance and allowed the Spirit to work through him. During this Pentecost season, Edmund Rice reminds us that when we open our hearts to the Spirit, we too can become instruments of justice, compassion, and transformation in our world.
A Spirit for Today
As we reflect on Pentecost, let’s ask ourselves:
How can I be a source of unity at St Pius X College or with my family?
What gifts has the Spirit given me, and how can I use them to help others?
Where do I need courage in my life right now?
Pentecost is not just a celebration of the past - it’s a call to action for today.
May we open our hearts and minds to the Spirit, and may we be inspired to live with love, courage, and hope.
Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us
St Pius X - Pray for Us
Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!
Living the Edmund Rice Charism: A Reflection on the St Pius X values and a call to action
In the spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice, we are called to live lives rooted in compassion, justice, and service. His legacy challenges us to not only believe in something greater but to act with purpose and conviction.
At the heart of our mission are the St Pius X College values of Faith, Excellence, Opportunity, and Respect - guiding principles that shape who we are and how we serve others.
Faith
Faith is more than belief - it is trust in the presence of God in every person and every moment. In the Edmund Rice tradition, faith calls us to see the divine in the poor, the marginalised, and the forgotten. It invites us to live with hope, to act with courage, and to be a light for others in times of darkness.
Excellence
Excellence is about striving to be our best selves - not for personal gain, but to better serve our communities. It means pursuing growth in all areas of life: intellectually, spiritually, morally, and emotionally. Excellence is not perfection, but a commitment to integrity, perseverance, and purpose.
Opportunity
Edmund Rice dedicated his life to creating opportunities for those who had none. Today, we are called to do the same. Living this value means advocating for equity, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that every person, especially at St Pius X has the chance to flourish. It also means recognizing the opportunities we’ve been given - and using them to uplift others.
Respect
Respect is the foundation of all meaningful relationships. It means honouring the dignity of every person, listening with empathy, and acting with kindness. In our schools, homes, and communities, respect creates a culture where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
As Viktor Frankl, Holocaust survivor and renowned psychiatrist, once said:
'When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves. Ultimately, man should not ask what the meaning of his life is, but rather must recognise that it is he who is asked.'
This quote reminds us that our values are not just ideals - they are calls to action. In living out the Edmund Rice charism, we answer that call with courage, compassion, and conviction.
Celebrating Excellence in Learning from our Term1 reports
Outstanding Achievement in Student Learning Attributes for Year 11
Last week, we celebrated the students who achieved an average rating of ‘Outstanding’ in their Student Learning Attributes. At the time, our Year 11 reports had not yet been released. Now that they have been published, we are delighted to acknowledge and congratulate Michael Cheah and Thomas Wong for attaining an average of ‘Outstanding’ across all their Student Learning Attributes.
Ex-Student Excels at Karate World Championships
Recently, Tiger Hart (Class of 2024) represented Australia at the World Karate Championships in Tokyo. He was the only member of the national team to progress to the second round. Although he was ultimately defeated, he showcased exceptional skill and determination against one of Japan’s top karate athletes. The College is incredibly proud of its alumni, and we are confident that this is just the beginning for Tiger as he continues to pursue his dream.
Reminder: Staff Formation Day, Friday 6 June - Pupil Free Day
A gentle reminder that there will be no classes tomorrow.
Cocurricular Program
Reconciliation Round: Honouring Culture and Connection
As part of our ongoing commitment to reconciliation and the recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, St Pius X College proudly observed Reconciliation Round with a series of meaningful events across the day.
The day began with a smoking ceremony involving our Junior School students - a powerful and symbolic act of cleansing and connection to Country. This ceremony set a respectful and reflective tone for the day’s activities.
Later, just before the First XV Rugby match, a second smoking ceremony was held. The moment was deeply reverent, with both teams, St Pius X and St Stanislaus', Bathurst and all spectators pausing to show their respect. It was a moving reminder of the importance of acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land on which we gather and play.
Our First XI Football team also took part in recognising Reconciliation Day, standing in solidarity with St Patrick’s College Strathfield before the start of their match. Their participation further highlighted the unity and shared commitment across our College community.
Acknowledging our traditional owners is not just a gesture - it is a vital part of our identity and values. We remain dedicated to walking together in the spirit of reconciliation, respect, and shared future.
Thank you to Mr James Bourke and Mr Matthew Stearn for promoting this significant event.
There are no scheduled matches this weekend, providing a valuable opportunity for our players and coaches to rest and recharge as we prepare for the second half of the season.
Go the Blue and Gold!
Enrolments for Years 5 & 7 2027
Enrolment applications for Years 5 & 7 2027 St Pius X College remain open. Please see the College website for details.
Key Dates
Week 7
Mon 9/6 King's Birthday Holiday
Tues 10/6 Senior School Athletics Carnival
Wed 11/6 Junior School Athletics Carnival / Year 11 2026 Subject Selection Evening 5:30 pm
Thur 12/6 Junior School Dance Session 2
Sat 14/6 ISA Football & Tennis R6 / IPSHA R6 / ISA Rugby R6 vs CCGS/Scots / Duke of Ed Bronze Hike - 15/6
Sun 15/6 Youth Mass OLD 5:30 pm
Fide et Labore
By Faith and hard work
Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever
Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal