From the Deputy Principal
- Responsibility Before Preference
- Changes to gates at Chatswood Train Station
Responsibility Before Preference
It was a pleasure to conclude the term with our Upstanders Morning Tea, a fitting way to recognise the selfless and courageous choices so many of our students are making each day. Over the past two years, we have seen a noticeable growth in the number of students acknowledged for stepping forward with kindness, integrity and compassion - often in small, unseen moments. From simple acts of courtesy in the community to standing beside others in times of need, these actions reflect what it means to be an upstander and a person of good character. Every choice to do what is right, especially when it is not easy, contributes to the good of others and strengthens the culture of respect and care we value at St Pius X.
As we reach the end of Term 2 and look ahead to the start of a new semester, it is timely to reflect on some of the expectations we hold for our students. For example, why do we ask them to cut their hair, shave, tuck in their shirts, straighten their ties, polish their shoes and meet standards that can, at times, feel inconvenient?
The answer is simple: because they do not always feel like it.
At first glance, this may seem unnecessarily firm. Yet, if we reflect on our own lives, we recognise how often we place responsibility ahead of preference - going to work, meeting commitments, doing household chores, and caring for our families in a variety of ways. These are not always things we feel like doing, but they are essential to who we are and how we contribute to others.
The expectations we set are not really about haircuts or polished shoes. Rather, they are about forming good habits - learning that we do not always get our own way, that compromise matters, and that belonging to a community calls us to look beyond ourselves. At St Pius X, these expectations are part of the good we seek to do each day in shaping a culture of respect, responsibility and pride within our school community.
As we prepare for Term 3, we are grateful for the partnership between school and home in reinforcing these shared values. In a world that can send mixed messages about responsibility and identity, this consistency matters. Together, we are shaping young men who are resilient, respectful and principled. Young men who understand that service, commitment and integrity are central to a meaningful life.
Individually, these expectations may seem minor, and at times tedious, but together they help shape the character of the young men we seek to form at St Pius X College. As St Paul reminds us, 'Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.' (Galatians 6:9)
We look forward to welcoming all students back for the commencement of Term 3 on Tuesday 21 July. As we return, we ask that students present in full winter uniform, with hair and overall appearance in keeping with the College Uniform and Presentation policy.
Wishing you a restful and enjoyable holiday period. For those travelling, may your journeys be safe and refreshing.
From Transport for NSW
Changes to Gate Access at Chatswood Station
Due to several high-level customer complaints about people walking through open barrier gates without tapping on or off, Chatswood Station will now ensure that all gates -including the side gate and wide access gate - will remain closed. Station staff will actively manage customer access.
Previously, staff have kept the side gate open at times to assist school groups. This practice will now cease. Students must travel with, and correctly use, their Opal cards or valid tickets.
If a student has lost or forgotten their Opal card, they should speak to a uniformed station staff member at the barriers. Staff will open the wide access gate to allow them through safely. Students must not jump barriers or follow closely behind another customer as this can cause injury to themselves or others.
Students should replace lost cards promptly and remember to bring their Opal card each day whilst travelling to and from school. While staff may speak with students who repeatedly forget their cards, students will never be denied entry to the station.
All students, including those in uniform, are required to tap on and off every trip. This demonstrates positive behaviour in the community and provides essential data that helps determine future timetables and service needs. Failure to tap on may result in a fine or the cancellation of a student’s free School Opal Card.
If you need a replacement Opal Card, please use the following link:
Ms Elizabeth Watson - Deputy Principal