Junior School News
From the Head of Junior School
WOODCHAT
For busy families who want the facts, fast!
TERM 1 IN REVIEW
Term 1 always reminds us of just how much can be achieved in a short space of time at St Pius X College. From those first‑day nerves as students walked through the gates, to the confidence and sense of belonging we now see across the Junior School, the term has been rich with opportunity, connection and learning.
Alongside the core work of the classroom, students have engaged in a wide range of experiences that support their academic, social and spiritual development. Community events such as the New Family Mass and BBQ, the Whole College Commencement Mass, Ash Wednesday Liturgy and Harmony Day Assembly have helped ground our students in the values that sit at the heart of the College.
Leadership has been a strong focus in the Junior School, with students taking on responsibility through the election of House and Class Captains and participation in our fortnightly Student Leadership program.
Our students have also embraced opportunities beyond the classroom, from Summer Sport trials, the Junior School Swimming Carnival and Cross Country, to clubs and enrichment programs such as Garden Club, Da Vinci Club, Maths Megaminds and Future Forward: Setup for Success. These experiences complement learning by building teamwork, perseverance, curiosity and problem‑solving skills.
Term 1 also included significant milestone experiences, including the Year 5 Formation Day, Year 5 Camp to Point Wolstoncroft and the Year 6 Canberra Tour, all of which provided powerful opportunities for independence, reflection and real‑world learning.
Alongside these experiences, practical preparations such as blazer fittings, safety drills, NAPLAN and Open Day, as well as celebrations like the Chinese New Year Assembly, rounded out a full and purposeful term.
What stands out most is not just how much has been squeezed into the term, but how thoughtfully it all connects to learning; helping students grow academically, socially and spiritually. On day 1 of term, I encouraged students to 'have a go' and to 'get involved'. As we head toward the end of Term 1, we can be very proud of the way our Junior School students have engaged so fully in all that St Pius X has to offer.
ST GABRIEL’S VISIT
Today at Oxford Falls, St Pius X was delighted to host an afternoon of fun, friendship and sport with our friends from St Gabriel’s School, Castle Hill. This special partnership provides valuable opportunities for students from both schools to connect, share experiences and learn alongside one another.
St Gabriel’s students visit St Pius X twice each year, and our student leaders look forward to visiting St Gabriel’s in Terms 2 and 4. Today’s activities were filled with laughter, teamwork and genuine moments of connection, highlighting the joy that comes from inclusive community experiences.
GARDEN CLUB with Mr Makhoul and Mrs Doheny
Last week in Garden Club, students got their hands dirty as they prepared the garden beds for our next season of crops. Carrots were harvested and our summer produce was removed, with students using shovels to till the soil. Lots of crawly insects and worms were encountered along the way, a sign of a healthy soil environment! Next up, students will be planning what our winter menu will look like now that the days are getting shorter and cooler.
JUNIOR SCHOOL BIBLE LITURGY
Earlier this week, our Junior School gathered in the College Gymnasium for a beautiful and reverent Bible Liturgy, celebrating faith, belonging and community. It was a special occasion for our Year 5 students and those new to Year 6, who were formally gifted a Bible by the College, marking an important milestone in their spiritual journey and reinforcing the central place of faith in their learning and lives.
We sincerely thank those parents who took the time to join us. Your support and shared witness of faith enrich these moments for our students and strengthen the sense of partnership that lies at the heart of our Junior School community.
LENTEN LITURGY
As we journey through the season of Lent, families are invited to join our Junior School community for the Junior School Lenten Liturgy, to be held at Our Lady of Dolours Church on Tuesday 31 March at 11:00 am. This liturgy will focus on the Triduum: Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Saturday and will invite students to reflect on themes of service, sacrifice and hope. Through the washing of the feet and a pledge of our Easter intentions, students will be encouraged to consider how they can live the values of compassion and service in their daily lives. We look forward to sharing this reflective and prayerful experience with our families.
Harvey W (5 Red)
(OPTIONAL) MATHEMATICS ENRICHMENT RESOURCES
As part of our aim to challenge and extend students in their learning, all students in the Junior School have been given access to a CANVAS page called Maths Megaminds 2026. I thank Mr Makhoul for developing this wonderful resource for our students.
The CANVAS page features a collection of modules aimed at extending students Mathematical thinking.
MODULE 1: Past Olympiad Papers
A number of prior Maths Olympiad papers are available going back to 2017. The solutions are also attached. The Maths Olympiad papers are challenging Maths competitions that feature 5 questions. These questions engage students’ Mathematical reasoning across all the content areas of Mathematics (Measurement, Number, and Statistics).
MODULE 2: Problem of the week challenges
A weekly POW (Problem of the Week) is published under the POW section. This comes with a video explaining the problem and attached paper. These are great, warm-up style problems and take around 5 minutes each. There are currently over 20 of these on the CANVAS page and I will be posting a new one each week.
MODULE 3: Mr Makhoul's Challenging Problems
There is a section (Module) on the CANVAS page called Mr Makhoul's Challenging Problems. This contains a collection of challenges I have put together and includes NRICH tasks. These are deeper, more challenging open ended Maths Investigations.
MODULE 4: APSMO Maths Games
If the Maths Olympiad is too hard for some students, there is a section with Maths Games papers. These are like the Maths Olympiad but more accessible and slightly easier for students who want to have a go.
Extra resources are also continually being added.
This page is offered to students as an extra resource to challenge their Mathematical thinking. Students are not required to complete any of these tasks however, the opportunity to extend their thinking and complete more challenging Mathematical tasks is provided.
If you have any questions related to Maths Megaminds, please speak with Mr Makhoul.
MERIT AWARD WINNERS
Congratulations to this week's Merit Award winners for living out our Touchstones.
OPEN DAY VOLUNTEER THANKS
Thank you to our Open Day tour guides who represented the college and the Junior School so professionally and warmly on Open Day.
PACER
Students from our school have recently undertaken an education tour of the national capital. Students were given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage, and democracy.
The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding of $30 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.
MOTHER'S DAY MASS INVITATION
ENROLMENTS FOR YEAR 5 & 7 2028 NOW OPEN
Thank you for your ongoing support of the Junior School.
Mrs Jill Greenwood - Head of Junior School
Junior School Sport News
Fixtures
Chess – Junior School Update
We had some late entries to Chess and as a result there looks to be 1 remaining place in the Chess Program. Please be aware that training will commence next Tuesday morning. We will have coaches from the Sydney Chess Academy there to grade the students and upskill them prior to the season commencing next Term. Further details regarding Friday matches will be shared to Chess families. I would also like to thank Mrs Bridie Barrett, who will be lead the Chess program for 2026. Training and games will appear in Clipboard.
Summer Sport Results
Basketball
Touch Football
Softball
This last game for the season we came out swinging and set the tone early, putting runs on the board with solid contact and smart base running. The line up fired on all cylinders - timely hits, aggressive steals, and great situational awareness had us up by 14 runs heading into the third inning. Defensively, we were sharp, making clean plays in the infield and tracking down fly balls in the outfield.
In the third, the opposition found a rhythm at the plate and managed to bring 7 runners home, capitalising on a few gaps and putting pressure on our defence. But we stayed composed, tightened up our fielding, and shut things down before momentum could fully shift.
Overall, it was a strong team performance - great communication, unselfish play, and consistent effort across all innings. Everyone contributed, and it showed on the scoreboard. It was also a fantastic season overall, with the team improving every game - building confidence at the plate, sharpening our defence, and growing stronger together right through to this final win.
Thank you to the parents for their support and look forward to continuing in Term 4.
Mrs Jennifer Williams - Softball Coach
Term 2 Thursday Sport Dates and Events
Term 2 Winter ISPHA Season Dates
- Round 1: 2 May
- Round 2: 9 May
- Round 3: 16 May
- Round 4: 23 May
- Round 5: 30 May
- Round 6: 13 June
- Round 7: 20 June
- Round 8: 25 July
- Round 9: 1 August
- Round 10: 8 August
SPX Junior School Winter Sport
Following several communications to families, we are still a little short of the numbers expected for the teams we have entered this season. Thank you to all families who have already completed their registration via Clipboard, your prompt support is greatly appreciated.
Although the extended registrations officially closed yesterday, we have reopened them to allow more families the opportunity to get involved, particularly in Year 5 Rugby and Football, where we still need several additional players. We warmly encourage any families who may have been considering registering to take this chance to join our SPX sporting community. There is also still space in AFL, Year 6 Rugby and Football.
Something to note, if you are currently on the fence with registering you son. Team sport plays a vital role in the growth of young people, helping them build friendships, develop confidence, and learn to work towards shared goals. It also strengthens resilience as students navigate success, challenge, and improvement within a supportive environment. Regular training and games promote physical health and wellbeing, while also encouraging teamwork and communication skills that extend far beyond the sporting field.
At St Pius X, our program offers quality coaching, a strong sense of community, and opportunities for boys of all abilities to participate and feel proud of representing their school. We value the way sport helps shape confident, well‑rounded young men, and we hope to see as many students as possible involved this season.
Grading Process and Winter Fixtures
Fixtures for the Winter season will begin to appear over the holidays and into the early part of Week 1, Term 2. Round 1 will take place on the Saturday of Week 2. Following our grading sessions in Weeks 9 and 10, students will be placed into tentative teams, with plenty of scope for movement prior and during the season. Grading for Football is conducted by external coaches from Sydney FC, supported by our Head of Football Development/First XI Coach and nationally accredited coach, Richard Lacey. Rugby grading will be overseen by our TryTime coaching team and First XV coach, Mike Cross, ensuring a thorough and fair process across both codes.
For Saturday fixtures, matches for our A teams may begin as early as 7:30 am, with most games across the program finishing before 9:00 am. On occasion, some away fixtures may start later - up to 11:15 am - though these are rare and we aim to minimise clashes, especially for families managing dual commitments.
As we approach the season, we ask all families to please be mindful of the expectation of full commitment. By registering to represent SPX, students are committing to prioritising school sport over external activities. Consistent attendance is essential for team balance, player development, and the overall success of the program. Family trips or non-essential absences are not considered valid reasons for missing a fixture, and with lower-than-expected player numbers in several teams, even a small number of absences can significantly impact what we are able to put on the field each week.
We appreciate the support of our families and look forward to a positive and competitive Winter season ahead.
Winter Sports Uniform
- AFL
Students are loaned a playing singlet and shorts
They need to purchase the SPX socks from the College Uniform Shop
FOOTBALL
Students need to purchase the shorts, jersey and socks from the College Uniform Shop
RUGBY
Students need to purchase the shorts, jersey and socks from the College Uniform Shop
Football Club Announcement
Less than 1 week until the SPX Football Season Launch & Social
Most tickets have been sold - please do get in quickly if you would like to come along with your boys. TICKET SALES CLOSE TOMORROW!!
The details at a glance -
- Held on the greens at Willoughby Bowling Club. Sunday 29th March, 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm ... great fun, kick around for the boys in the park, meet the families in your team
- Come and say hi to the Football Staff and school leaders - a great chance to hear what's happening in football this year
- The First XI squad will be presented with their jerseys for the season - a great honour for these young men and an inspiration for all boys playing football this year
TICKET SALES CLOSE ON FRIDAY - GET YOUR TICKETS NOW using the link or QR code below. Further details are included in the link -
https://events.humanitix.com/2026-st-pius-x-football-season-launch
PLEASE NOTE: if you have friends at SPX that would also like to receive succinct email updates throughout the football season, please forward this link to them so that they can opt in and we will be in touch -
https://spxchatswood.formstack.com/forms/2026_football_club_opt_in
Matt Zanello - SPX Football Supporters Club President
Holiday Rugby Clinic
The annual Easter Holiday rugby clinic will take place on Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 April. This is a great opportunity for the students to make sure they’re well and truly prepared for the season and will help them put their best foot forward for ISA season.
Coaching staff will be Trytime coaches and special guest coaches. Position specific coaching will be given as well as team play. It will be a great chance for students to work on their skills and confidence before the season.
Please register via Clipboard https://portal.clipboard.app/stpiusx.
2026 U/15s & 16s Fiji Rugby Tour
Community Donations
We are thrilled to announce that our U/15s & 16s Rugby squads will be embarking on an exciting tour to Fiji during the April school holidays in 2026! This trip is more than just rugby as it provides students with cultural exchange, community engagement, and also creating unforgettable memories.
As part of this initiative, we are reaching out to the St Pius X community for support. We are collecting donations of any old technology (such as laptops, tablets, or phones) and sports clothing that can be repurposed and shared with local communities in Fiji. Your generosity will help make a real difference.
How to Donate: Please drop off your items in the morning at Student Reception.
SPX Rugby Club
Rugby Gala Dinner 2026
Save the Date. The date and the venue are now locked in! Mark your calendar for Saturday 1 August at Dockside. The Rugby Committee are excited to once again be hosting a fun filled evening.
Stay tuned for further details, and if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to spxrugby@gmail.com
Term 1 Rugby Dates for the Diary:
Thursday 24 March - Rugby Training Commences at Oxford Falls for all students Year 7-12
Thursday 26 March – Fiji Rugby Tour predeparture meeting
Saturday 28 March - SPX vs ST ALOYISIUS'
15 and 16 April – Rugby Holiday Clinic
ST PIUS X APRIL HOLIDAY SOCCER CAMP - TWO WEEKS TO GO
Tues 7 - Friday 10 April (Please note no session on Easter Monday)
9:00 am - 12:00 pm each day.
2, 3 and 4 day options (Please email to indicate which days you would like to attend if choose the 2 or 3 day option)
5v5 Tournament running each day!
The Perfect Pre Season Preparation!
A bus will be available for the first 60 registered players, departing Chatswood Campus at 8:30 am and returning at 12:40 pm.
For more information and to register please click here: Coerver course | Coerver Coaching
Please email Coerver to request a seat on the bus.
Coerver Coaching holiday camps offer a fun filled soccer experience for children aged 4-16 years. Each day will include Coerver® SKILLS competitions and challenges, Ball Mastery, Coaching sessions focusing on developing effective use of skill, small sided Coerver® Games, and mini Coerver Cup Tournament to keep players active.
Mr James Bourke - Junior School Sport Coordinator