Parent and Student Matters

- Visual Arts
- URBNSURF Challenge 2026
- ArtLab
- Touchstone Portrait Prize 2026
- Maths Drop-In
Visual Arts
Artworks on Display
The corridors outside the SEED classrooms are now displaying two new artworks. These are the lino printmaking efforts of Years 7 and 8 students from 2025. The artworks were created using a reduction printmaking technique in response to the themes of Still Life and Endangered Animals. The artworks are vibrant displays of colour and texture. Take the time to have a close look if you are nearby.
Ms Frances Doyle - Leader of Learning, Visual Arts
URBNSURF Challenge 2026 - Registrations now open
The URBNSURF 2026 Challenge is back and set to be bigger than ever. To help more families get involved, this year’s event will run on Sunday 29 March at URBNSURF Homebush. Whether you are a returning surfer, a first timer or a parent keen to give it a go, this is a fantastic opportunity to dive into the St Pius community spirit.
Session options include Learn to Surf, Cruiser and Progressive Turns, with all student and parent registrations completed through Clipboard. Registrations close at 5:00 pm on Monday 16 March, and numbers may be capped depending on interest, so early sign‑up is encouraged.
School staff will be present, and Flowstate video footage will be available for purchase via the URBNSURF website.
For event information, please contact :Dan Burton - dburton@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au
For Urbnsurf information, please go to their website: https://urbnsurf.com/
Come and join us for a memorable afternoon in the water as we celebrate community, challenge ourselves and make this the biggest URBNSURF event yet.
Mr Daniel Burton - Leader of Learning, SEED
Winter ArtLab
Unleash Your Creativity at Winter ArtLab!
Winter ArtLab is a Cocurricular activity offered for students from Years 8 to 11. There are only a few spaces left so interested students will need parents to register quickly through Clipboard.
'Art Lab is all about extending your artmaking skills without the pressure of assessment and theory classes. The group fosters artistic growth, encourages critical thinking, and builds confidence in expressing individual creativity. Whether you are refining your current skills or discovering new passions, Art Lab nurtures your artistic journey while cultivating a strong sense of community and inspiration.
Joining the after-school Art Lab group offers a unique opportunity for you to expand your creative skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.
You don’t need to be a current Visual Arts students to join Art Lab – it is open to all students from Year 8 to 11.
Get your hands dirty! Learn how to throw pots on the wheel, discover new skills and print a t-shirt, work on collaborative projects for display around the College and enter art competitions which will showcase your talents.
Work with students from many different year groups and create new friendships with likeminded people who share your passion for art.
Expert guidance – learn from experienced art teachers and ex-student mentors.
Art Lab provides a space to explore various art forms, experiment with new techniques, and receive constructive feedback from peers and instructors.
At the end of the season your artworks will be celebrated with an exhibition for you, your parents/carers, family and friends to attend.
Art Lab will count towards your cocurricular commitment.
Activity selections must be completed by a Parent/Carer through Clipboard. Completion and payment of selections will be acknowledged as 'consent to participate’ in the activity.
Season: Winter (Term 2 and Term 3)
Time: Wednesdays 3:05 pm – 5:00 pm
Where: Art Room 2
Equipment: Everything will be supplied
Cost: $400
Touchstone Portrait Prize 2026: Celebrating the people who shape us
Create a portrait in any medium:
Drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, print or digital.
(2D works must be no larger than A3.)
The competition features three age categories:
Years 5–6
Years 7–8
Years 9–12
Prizes include $200 for the overall winner, $100 for each age‑group winner, and additional gift cards for runners‑up.
Submissions close: Friday 24 April
For more information, please contact the Visual Arts staff.
Start creating - we can’t wait to see your work!
Ms Frances Doyle - Leader of Learning, Visual Arts
Maths Drop-In
It has been fantastic to see so many students from Years 7–12 attending Maths Drop-In sessions. It is perfect in providing students with the opportunity to strengthen their understanding, consolidate classwork, and build confidence in key mathematical skills.
Maths Drop-In is the perfect opportunity to complete additional study, receive one-on-one support, ask questions in a relaxed environment, or catch up on any set tasks. Whether you’re preparing for an upcoming assessment, revising challenging topics, or simply wanting to stay on top of your learning, these sessions are designed to help you achieve your personal best.
Keep up the great momentum - bring your friends along and make the most of this supportive learning environment as you work towards your academic goals!
Where: C1
When: Tuesdays & Thursdays
Time: 7:40 am - 8:30 am
Come along and join the fun.
Mrs Amanda Fileman - Mathematics Teacher










