The Net

School of Leadership

A Note from the School of Leadership Head of School

There’s something remarkable about the everyday moments that make up the life of a school community—and at St Luke’s, those moments are adding up to something special.

 

This week, I had the privilege of participating in a Stage 6 English Syllabus day—an energising and thought-provoking day of professional learning that St Luke’s had the honour of hosting. This event, like so many others, highlighted not only the richness of the curriculum but the calibre and commitment of our staff. We also welcomed 14 of the Colleges’ beginning and early career teachers to a Professional Learning Community session, designed to support their induction into the profession. Their passion, questions, and collaborative spirit were a clear reminder that the future of teaching is in excellent hands.

 

Across the school, there is always a multitude of things happening. The first Tournament of Minds training session kicked off this week, with students in Years 5-9 already rising to the challenge of creative problem-solving. Our Stage 3 and Years 7-12 choirs are in full voice, filling the school with music and joy. Debating teams are sharpening their arguments and competing at diocesan schools each Wednesday, the Express U dance program and Bring It On rehearsals are in motion, and every Tuesday afternoon, our Study Centre is buzzing with students being supported by teachers who generously volunteer their time. And let’s not forget the Breakfast Club, where dedicated staff greet students each Thursday morning, creating a sense of welcome and care that lasts the whole day.

 

All of these programs—every opportunity, every extra hour, every moment of connection—are made possible by teachers who go above and beyond, often outside of their scheduled hours. Their dedication is the heartbeat of our thriving school community, and their impact cannot be overstated.

 

Choose Your Own Adventure: A New Learning Journey

In another exciting development, St Luke’s is preparing to launch Choose Your Own Adventure 2026, where Year 8 students will select their own areas of study for the very first time. Earlier this term, students were surveyed in their Life Design lessons to gather insights into their interests, passions, and emerging talents. Now, teachers are invited to design bespoke elective experiences that respond directly to student voice.

This marks a significant commitment to personalised and purpose-driven learning. More information will be shared soon regarding the student selection process, but for now, please save the date for Insight Night on June 17, where the community will come together to explore these exciting new opportunities.

 

St Luke’s continues to be a place where curiosity is nurtured, creativity is celebrated, and community is everything. Thank you for all that you do to bring this vision to life.

 

 

 

 Mrs Kate Kelly - Head of School, School of Leadership

 

A Note from The SOL Assistant Principal 

 

Winter Uniform Expectations

As the weather cools down in preparation for the winter months, our school uniform expectations also change for terms 2 and 3. Boys and girls who select the pants and shirt option, must be wearing a College neck-tie. Girls must also wear navy tights or stockings with their uniform. College beanies and scarves are also available to purchase through Oz Fashion. The tie and stockings are compulsory additions to the uniform in terms 2 and 3. Purchases can be made through the following website:

https://stlukes.uniforms4u.com.au/ using the password: sl2765

 

Hats can also be purchased through the website above and to save you the freight charge, these can be picked up directly from the Front Office. I have also noticed some students coming to school using a bag that is not the College School Bag. The College bag is a mandated part of the uniform. Your support with this is greatly appreciated. If you are experiencing any financial hardship, please contact your child’s teacher or Wellbeing Coordinator for assistance and support.

 

Attendance

Your child’s absence can add up really quickly. Missing a day here or there may not seem like a lot, but once they add up, the calcu;lation of the attendance of your child as a percentage can be quite shocking. Taking leave during the term can also significantly impact your child’s attendance. Being away from school can impact your child in many ways including:

  • Academic setbacks and disruption to your child’s learning (loss of learning time creating gaps in their knowledge and skills).
  • Social challenges including being isolated and finding it difficult to reintegrate when coming back from absence.
  • Emotional and Psychological Effects including experiencing anxiety, stress and feelings of missing out on things their peers have experienced.
  • Physical and mental health (interrupted sleep routines and missing out on the opportunity to be physically active at school).
  • Missing the support of other significant adults in their lives (teachers, school counsellors, College leaders).

 

Missing school can have long lasting effects on your child which can lead to poorer academic performance. We know that getting your child to school can be challenging and we are here to help. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at jcamilleri39@parra.catholic.edu.au or calling me at the College. If you receive a letter from your child’s teacher, Wellbeing Coordinator, or me, please know that this comes from a place of care for your child, it is never from a place of judgement. 

 

 

Mrs Josephine Camilleri - Assistant Principal, School of Leadership

 

 

Stage 3 Stories… 

 

Stage 3 Instructional Leader

 

Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome back to Term 2. We hope you and your families had a restful and refreshing break. It has been wonderful to see our Stage 3 students return with such energy and enthusiasm for their learning. Already, classrooms are buzzing with curiosity, collaboration, and creative thinking.

This term, students will be engaging in targeted learning workshops, which offer them the opportunity to be appropriately supported and challenged in key areas of their learning. These workshops allow for flexible groupings based on student needs and interests and are designed to promote deeper understanding and individual growth.

We’ve also launched Stage-wide Maths Groups, where students are working across classes with different teachers and peers. This approach encourages diverse thinking, peer learning, and connection across the cohort. We’re excited to see how this initiative continues to support students' confidence and skills in mathematics.

There are a variety of workshops students will be attending this term, including a focus on wellbeing through The Protectors program. Students will also have several opportunities to liaise with high school students through a range of KLA-focused workshops and activities, helping to build confidence, connection, and a sense of continuity in their learning journey.

 

As the year progresses, we have been incredibly proud of the growth in student behaviour, reflection, and camaraderie across the stage. Our students are developing into thoughtful, respectful learners who support one another.

At home, conversations with your child about kindness, supportive friendships, and resilience can have a powerful impact. Encouraging your child to talk through situations where things don’t go as planned and helping them develop strategies to manage feelings of frustration, anger, or sadness, builds their emotional intelligence and supports their ability to self-regulate and problem-solve.

We’re looking forward to another term of learning, connection, and growth. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Warm regards,

Shaz McAllister

Instructional Leader

 

CSPD Lifted Jnr

On the 14th of May Stage 3 students went to West HQ for the Lifted Junior event. We went there with Mr Rodwell and Mrs Thoms to learn more about being a Catholic and spreading the good news and the message of hope. Lifted a fun and engaging event that was all about bringing people in our community closer together, by allowing God to guide us through hard times and showing hope. We got to play games, activities and take part in dances and songs and got to celebrate our faith in action.

It was a great day and we got to make friends from other schools!

Overall, Lifted was one of the best experiences that we have attended in Year 6, because it really shaped and moved our faith and spirituality to the next level.

  • Lara A and Aiden T (Y6 Riley)

 

Cooking with Year 6

As part of their ANZAC Day commemorations, the Year 6 students participated in a hands-on cooking activity, making traditional ANZAC biscuits in the school kitchen. This practical experience not only connected them to an important part of Australian history, but also helped them develop valuable life skills. Students followed a recipe with precision, learning to measure ingredients accurately, mix and combine using proper techniques, and work safely in a kitchen environment. They practised teamwork and time management, taking turns and supporting one another throughout the process. The activity provided a meaningful way to reflect on the sacrifices of the ANZACs while building confidence and

competence in the kitchen. 

Mother’s Day Liturgy and Classroom walkthrough

Last week, we celebrated our Mother’s Day liturgy and held a special classroom walkthrough, where we were blessed to welcome many visitors into our learning space. It was a joyful occasion filled with warmth and appreciation, as we took the time to honour the incredible role that mothers and mother figures play in our lives. From the love and care they show us each day to the countless ways they support and guide us, mothers truly make a difference in everything they do. It was a beautiful opportunity to say thank you and celebrate the special people who give so much of themselves for others.

 

 

From Stage 4

Looking sharp in Winter uniformStage 4 students have made a great start to the term, arriving each day looking smart and ready to learn. As the colder weather sets in, we remind all students to wear their full winter uniform with pride. Girls are expected to wear tights, and any student wearing trousers should ensure they have their tie on. Wearing the correct uniform reflects respect for our school and a strong sense of self-discipline.

Reflecting on assessment and growthIt has been encouraging to see so many students taking the time to reflect on their results from the first assessment task. These moments of reflection are valuable opportunities for learning and growth. Many students have already set personal goals for improvement and are showing a mature approach to feedback. This attitude sets a strong foundation for success in the term ahead.

Athletics Carnival spiritOur first Athletics Carnival was a highlight, with students showing house spirit, teamwork, and enthusiasm. It was fantastic to see students cheering each other on, celebrating personal bests, and embracing the joy of healthy competition. Events like these are more than just sport, they are about connection, encouragement, and school pride. Well done to all of the Stage 4 students who attended!

The value of commitmentWhile the majority of students engaged fully in the day, we also noticed a few students opting out of events once the initial excitement wore off. We encourage everyone to stay committed and follow through, even when the fun fades. Commitment and resilience are key to personal growth and leadership.

SOARing TogetherAs we continue through the term, we are proud of the way many Stage 4 students are stepping up as role models—Levelling Up in their learning and SOARing together by showing service, ownership, achievement, and respect. Let’s keep the momentum going and finish the term strong!

 

 

Mrs Zorzo - Year 8 Wellbeing Coordinator

 

 

Learning Showcase

 

Religious Education:

Year 7:

 

 

In this unit, students will explore how the Bible helps uncover truth and guide ethical decision-making. Anchored in Jesus’ words from John 8:31–38, “The truth will set you free,” they will examine real-world issues through a faith-based lens. Students will investigate organisations with unethical practices and respond with Gospel-inspired solutions grounded in Catholic Social Teaching. Through reflection, research, and creative action, they will form the St Luke’s Ethics Committee—a student-led initiative championing justice within the school and beyond. This unit will empower students to see the Bible not just as a sacred text, but as a living guide for truth, justice, and moral courage.

 

 

 

Stage 4 CAPA: Year 7 Art 

This week, Year 7 Art students visited the Art Gallery of New South Wales to explore the Archibald, Wynne, and Sulman Prizes exhibition. The excursion offered students the opportunity to view a diverse range of artworks, allowing them to observe, experience, and analyse various artistic techniques and approaches. During the visit, students engaged with specially designed booklets to help them identify and interpret the structural, subjective, cultural, and postmodern frames within multiple artworks. These resources encouraged thoughtful reflection and critical thinking as students explored how artists communicate meaning, represent identity, and respond to their cultural and social environment.

The gallery setting provided a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in professional artistic practice beyond the classroom. Many students were particularly inspired by the scale, texture, and emotional impact of the original artworks, deepening their appreciation for the creative process. Engaging with such high-calibre works firsthand allowed students to make personal connections with the art, enhancing their visual literacy and understanding of contemporary Australian art in a meaningful and memorable way.

 

 

 

 

Year 7 PDHPE 

This term, students have begun exploring the concept of personal identity as a foundation for understanding the significant physical, emotional, and social changes that occur during adolescence. This unit will lead into an in-depth study of puberty and development, helping students understand the transition from childhood through adolescence and into adulthood. As part of this learning, students will examine the changes experienced by both males and females during puberty, including the various stages of development, the role of hormones, and the impact of these changes on emotions and relationships. Topics such as menstruation, personal hygiene, emotional regulation, and respectful communication will also be covered. The program aims to equip students with accurate information, foster body positivity, and build confidence as they navigate this important phase of life.

 

 

 

Year 8:

Religious Education

In this unit, students will explore the question: “How can the Bible help us understand how to live a good life?” Focusing on the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1–12), they will reflect personally, engage in dialogue with residents at Marsden Park Community Care Home, and create collaborative projects linking Gospel values to real-life decisions. The unit will conclude with a public exhibition, Voices of the Beatitudes, showcasing how Scripture inspires mercy, peace, justice, and hope.

 

 

HSIE:

Year 7:

This term students are learning about Water in the World and specifically, how we can future proof our water supply. Students are also busy learning and practising their Geography skills as they progress through the course. 

 

On the 6/6/25 Year 7 will be going on an excursion to the Rocks to look at how water has been managed in the past in Sydney which will help them understand different management techniques to future proof our water. Please check Compass for the note regarding this excursion. 

 

Year 8:

 

This term students are investigating how we can use global connections to create a better world for everyone. Watching or reading the news and being aware of the positive and negative impacts of globalisation is one way for students to connect their learning with the real world. We encourage students and parents to discuss what is happening around the world and how these global connections can be used to build a better world for everyone in it. 

 

Academy for Enterprising Girls Workshop

This week we were excited to offer our students the opportunity to take part in the Enterprising Girls Workshop – a dynamic, hands-on experience designed to develop entrepreneurial thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

Through engaging videos, interactive tasks, and problem solving challenges, students explored how to turn ideas into business solutions that address real-world issues. Using a project based learning approach, participants strengthened their teamwork, communication, and design thinking skills – all while developing confidence and skills in entrepreneurship.

Each student also received a special keepsake to remember the experience.