From the Principal

• Reflection
• EREBB and Principal Leave
• EREA National Principal's Conference Theme
• Celebrating our Scholarship Recipients
• Old Boys' Scholarship Recipient
• Bergelin Scholarship Recipient
• Thomas van Dijk Scholarship Recipient
• College Open Day - Saturday 14 March
• Open Day Student Volunteers
• Open Day - Cake Stall 
• Mother's Day Invitation
• Cocurricular Program - A Triumphant Weekend
• Key Dates 

Reflection

Who Really Is the Samaritan Woman and What Does She Represent Today?

The Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1–42) is one of the most significant and misunderstood figures in the Gospels. She is not named, but she becomes a powerful symbol in Christian tradition.

Who is she?

Historically, she is:

• A Samaritan - a member of a group despised by Jews at the time because of religious and cultural differences.

• A woman - in a society where women had little social status.

• A person with a complicated past - she has had multiple relationships, which likely left her isolated or judged.

She arrives at the well alone at midday, suggesting she may have been an outsider in her community. Despite these barriers, Jesus chooses to speak to her.  This is the longest recorded conversation He has with anyone in the Gospels.

What does she represent for us today?

She represents the outsider whom Jesus welcomes.

• Jesus crosses every boundary - religious, social, gendered, moral to meet her.

• Today, she reminds us that no one is beyond God’s love, dignity, or mercy.

• She symbolises those on the margins: the overlooked, the judged, the misunderstood.

She represents the person seeking meaning and belonging.

• Her “thirst” is deeper than physical water.

• Jesus offers her living water - a life filled with purpose, healing, and hope.

• She represents all of us who search for something more, something that truly satisfies.

She represents transformation and new beginnings.

• After her encounter with Jesus, she does not hide - she becomes a witness.

• She returns to her village with confidence and purpose.

• Today, she symbolises the power of personal conversion and renewal.

She represents courage and truthfulness.

• When Jesus names her past, she does not run away.

• She speaks honestly to Him and is met with compassion.

• She models the courage to face our truth, trusting that God meets us with mercy, not judgment.

She represents the mission entrusted to ordinary people.

• She becomes the first evangeliser in John’s Gospel.  Her testimony brings an entire community to Jesus.

• She shows that God uses ordinary people, with ordinary lives, to do extraordinary things.

Therefore, the Samaritan woman is:

• An outsider Jesus welcomed

• A seeker Jesus fulfilled

• A person transformed by grace

• A truth-teller who became a witness

• A symbol of God’s inclusive and boundless love

Who are the “outsiders” in our school community, and how might I welcome them in the way Jesus welcomed the Samaritan woman?

Where in my own life am I seeking something deeper, and how open am I to the transforming grace that Jesus offers?

How can I be a truthful and compassionate witness through my words and actions to God’s inclusive and boundless love?

Prayer:

Loving God,

As we remember the Samaritan woman, open our hearts to Your welcome,

our minds to Your truth,

and our lives to Your transforming grace.

Help us to see those on the margins,

to seek You with honesty,and to share Your love with gentleness and courage.

May we become witnesses of Your hope in our community today.

Amen.

Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us

St Pius X - Pray for Us

Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!

EREBB and Principal Leave

A gentle reminder to the College community that I will be attending the EREBB Congress in Argentina as part of my ongoing commitment to strengthening our global Edmund Rice partnerships. I will be absent from the College from Monday 16 March until Friday 24 April.

During my leave, Ms Watson will lead the community as Acting Principal. Following an extensive appointment process, Mr Wheatley has also been appointed to the role of Acting Deputy Principal. I would like to thank both Mrs Watson and Mr Wheatley for stepping into these important positions within the College.

At today’s College Assembly, I shared with students my complete confidence in our leadership team and their ability to support and guide the College during this period. I know our community will support and continue to thrive under their care.

As part of the Congress experience, I will also participate in a pre‑immersion program with Fe y Alegría in Lima, Peru, where I will have the privilege of assisting in the construction of a house for a local family. 

I look forward to sharing these experiences and the insights gained from engaging with Edmund Rice educators from around the world upon my return.

Please keep me, and all our Edmund Rice leaders, in your prayers during this time.

‘Dios los bendiga’

God Bless

EREA National Principals’ Conference Theme: Our Voice as Leaders in the Church

Leaders from Edmund Rice Education Australia gathered recently for the National Principals’ Conference, exploring what it means to lead boldly and faithfully within the Church today. The theme invited reflection on how we speak, act, and lead as custodians of the Edmund Rice charism.

Address by Dr Liam Smith – EREA National Executive Director

Dr Liam Smith reminded delegates of the call to live the Gospel publicly and boldly, emphasising that leaders in Edmund Rice communities are entrusted with carrying forward the charism of Edmund Rice. He encouraged Principals to ground their leadership in identity, community, and the shared mission of serving young people with dignity and justice.

Keynote: Bishop Michael Morrissey – Diocese of Geraldton

Bishop Morrissey, himself a graduate of an Edmund Rice school (Aquinas College, Perth), shared reflections on leadership shaped by Gospel values. He highlighted “fruitfulness” as the key measure of school success, seen in the long‑term positive impact we have on others through kindness, graciousness, and compassion.

He reminded leaders of their responsibility to be advocates for the unseen and unheard, expressing Gospel values through deep listening and authentic presence. His message encouraged schools to nurture communities where every person is valued and supported.

Keynote: Professor Marcia Langton – University of Melbourne

Professor Marcia Langton offered a powerful challenge on First Nations education, inviting leaders to reflect on:

• How intentional schools are in teaching First Nations histories and cultures.

• The responsibilities leaders hold when bringing historical truths into the curriculum.

• The persistent misunderstandings about colonisation that still exist in Australian schools and how to dismantle them.

• The importance of truth‑telling, historically accurate teaching, and Indigenous‑led design in curriculum development.

• How to move from ad‑hoc engagement with local Aboriginal communities to sustainable, respectful partnerships that protect cultural and intellectual property.

• Her message was clear: First Nations perspectives must be a core part of education, not an optional addition.

Delegates also visited Trinity College, East Perth, gaining insights into local expressions of the Edmund Rice charism.

Reflection: Dr Michael Slattery – President, EREA Council

Dr Slattery reflected on the spiritual heart of Edmund Rice education, reminding leaders:

'God will be in our schools when we arrive, and will remain when we leave.'

He emphasised the ongoing formation of lay leaders as essential for nurturing Catholic identity and ensuring that we, today, are the new custodians of the Edmund Rice story and mission.

Keynote: Professor Francis Campbell – Vice Chancellor, University of Notre Dame

Professor Campbell invited leaders to consider how they would describe the mission of a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition to a stranger. He echoed Pope Francis’ message that “educating is an act of love - it is like giving life”, reminding participants that Catholic schools are places of encounter, hope, justice, and joy.

He challenged school leaders to reflect on the core purpose of their work: forming young people with strong convictions, Christian hope, and a commitment to building a more compassionate world.

The conference was a powerful reminder of the courage, compassion, and Gospel purpose at the heart of Edmund Rice education. Inspired by the voices we heard, St Pius X College is called to speak and act with clarity - welcoming all, listening deeply, and standing with those on the margins. As we return to our daily work, we recommit ourselves to living the Edmund Rice charism with authenticity and hope, ensuring our College remains a place where the Gospel comes alive in all we do.

Celebrating Our Scholarship Recipients

At our assembly this week we were delighted to recognise the Year 8, 9, 10 and 11 students who received a Academic Scholarship for 2026, awarded for their outstanding commitment to learning throughout 2025. These scholarships acknowledge far more than grade.  They celebrate the perseverance, curiosity, and disciplined approach each recipient brings to their studies on a daily basis.

Each of these young men has shown consistency in their effort, a willingness to challenge themselves, and a genuine desire to grow as learners. Their achievements reflect not only their personal dedication but also the support of their families and the guidance of their teachers.

We are incredibly proud of our scholarship recipients and the example they set for the wider College community. Their success reminds us all of the value of hard work, resilience, and a positive approach to learning.

Congratulations to these remarkable students and contribution to St Pius X College in the year ahead.

Academic Scholarship recipients:

Michael Capra (Year 8)

James Sykes (Year 9)

Patrick and Alfred Hu (Year 10)

Marcus Ng (Year 11)

Old Boys' Scholarship Recipient

The Old Boys’ Scholarship was set up in 2008 by the SPX Old Boys’ Association.  It is awarded to a senior student each year to assist in his education at St Pius X College.

Recipients must be committed to the school, responsive to staff and demonstrate a range of abilities.

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Recipients are assessed in consideration of the following criteria:

• Commitment to the school;

• Academic standing and achievement;

• Involvement in overall College program;

We congratulate Alex Parissis (Year 11) for being the 2026/27 recipient of the Old Boys' Scholarship.

Congratulations to the recipient of the Bergelin Scholarship

During our assembly we also presented the Bergelin Scholarship.  This scholarship is formally known as the Terence Bergelin Scholarship. It is a bequeathed scholarship, designed specifically for students who are likely to enter a trade pathway and who have made a positive contribution to the life of the College.

In essence, the Bergelin Scholarship supports young men who demonstrate character, commitment, and practical aptitude, recognising both their achievements and their potential for future vocational success within trade‑based industries.

It was with honour that we presented this scholarship to Will Kevans.

The Thomas van Dyke Scholarship

We were also honoured to present the Thomas van Dijk Scholarship to Joshua Booth. This scholarship, donated by the van Dijk family in loving memory of their son Thomas, recognises a Year 11 student who demonstrates strong academic ability - particularly in Science, alongside an all‑round commitment to College life through sport, the arts, pastoral care, and service.

The award was presented by Mr Brad van Dijk, who shared a moving and heartfelt tribute to Thomas, reflecting the kindness, curiosity, and generosity of spirit that the scholarship seeks to honour. His words reminded us of the enduring impact Thomas had on our community and the legacy he continues to inspire.

We congratulate Joshua on receiving this significant scholarship and for embodying the values that the van Dijk family hold so dearly.

College Open Day - A time for St Pius X to Shine

Our College Open Day is almost here, and preparations are in full swing as we look forward to welcoming future St Pius X families this Saturday. 

Tour Times:

Chatswood Campus: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

Oxford Falls Campus: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm

Applications for Year 5 and Year 7 entry in 2028 are now open, and families are invited to submit enrolment applications.

Our staff and students look forward to welcoming all prospective families and sharing the warmth, spirit, and inclusiveness of the St Pius X College community.

Tour bookings are essential. 

Book here to secure a tour of the Chatswood Campus

Book here to secure a tour of the Oxford Falls Campus

Cake Stall for Open Day

Thank you to those who have offered to provide a sweet treat for our Open Day Cake Stall. Your support makes this special tradition possible.

Boxes are being sent home this week with your son.  If he has not received a box yet, please ask him to collect one from Student Reception.

Please ensure all items are clearly labelled with ingredients.

Your treats can be sent to school on the Friday 13 March - please leave at Student Reception. If delivering on the day, please go straight to the Cake stall.

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs Christine Jennings - cjennings@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au 

Mother's Day Mass Invitation

Cocurricular Program - A Triumphant Weekend for St Pius X Sport

Last weekend was a wonderful celebration of St Pius X sport at the ISA Summer Season Finals, and I could not be prouder of all our players, not only for their performance, but for the outstanding sportsmanship they displayed throughout the day. 

Congratulations to the 14D’s, 3rd V and 4th V basketball teams, and to Mr Pat Rodgers and Mr David Reay, who led our 1st XI cricket team to their first premiership since 2015, defeating St Patrick’s by eight wickets before lunch - an exceptional achievement. 

Our heartfelt thanks also go to the many supporters who turned out across venues, especially those who rallied behind our First XI. Your presence and encouragement made a real difference. 

In swimming, our College squad represented us proudly at the Christian Brothers Swimming Carnival.  Special thanks to Ms Leisa Proc for her leadership and organisation with the ISA Swimming Carnival approaching next Tuesday.

Preparations are well underway for the winter season beginning the week of 23 March. We look forward to another strong period of sport, teamwork and community spirit at St Pius X College.

A great weekend for the Blue and Gold!

Key Dates

Week 8

Mon  16/3 NAPLAN

Tues 17/3 NAPLAN / Chapel Mass (Mercy) / ISA Swimming Carnival 

Wed 18/3 Year 10 Vaccination Clinic

Thur 19/3 Staff Meeting #2 (early finish for students)

Fri 20/3 Harmony Day Assembly / Cocurricular Photos

Sat 21/3 IPSHA R6 / NSTA Tennis / squash

Sun 22/3 Youth Mass 

Fide et Labore

By Faith and Hard work

Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever

Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal