School of Entrepreneurs

A message from the School of Entrepreneurs Head of School

A Strong Start to the Trial HSC Examinations

Term 3 is always a significant and busy time in the School of Entrepreneurs, with many opportunities to celebrate the growth, achievements and commitment of our students.

We are delighted to share that the Trial HSC Examinations have commenced with a smooth and positive start by all students. Before the first examination, our Year 12 students came together as a cohort in prayer, taking the time to pause, reflect and place their trust in God as they embarked on this important stage of their learning journey. It was a meaningful moment of unity, reminding our students that they are supported by one another, their teachers and our faith-filled community.

From the very first examination session, our Year 12 students and Year 11 accelerants have demonstrated maturity, resilience and determination. They have approached this important milestone with focus, calmness and a strong commitment to doing their very best. The Trial HSC Examinations are an important step in preparing for the Higher School Certificate examinations and it has been inspiring to witness the positive mindset and perseverance shown by our students. We have encouraged all students to start the way they intend to finish so that they put their best foot forward for every examination.

As a Catholic learning community, we recognise that this journey is about more than academic success. It is also an opportunity for our students to grow in faith, courage and perseverance, trusting that God walks beside them throughout every challenge.

We congratulate all students on their excellent start to the examination period and assure them of our continued prayers. May God bless them with calm minds, steady hearts, wisdom and clarity as they complete their Trial HSC Examinations.

Strategic Improvement Plan Snapshot: Building a Culture of Feedback for Learning

At the beginning of Term 3, our staff came together for a comprehensive professional learning day focused on one of the most powerful influences on student achievement - high-quality feedback.

Drawing upon the exceptional professional capital within our own College, alongside a suite of professional learning webinars provided by Catholic Schools NSW, staff engaged in rich discussions and practical learning about how feedback can most effectively support student growth. This collaborative approach enabled teachers to explore evidence-informed strategies that can be implemented consistently across all year levels and learning areas.

As a direct result of this learning, staff have already begun designing and embedding feedback protocols that provide students with timely, frequent and progressive feedback, particularly in the development of their writing skills. These practices form an important part of our Strategic Improvement Plan and reflect our ongoing commitment to continually improving teaching and learning for every student.

One of the most significant insights from the day challenged us to think beyond simply providing feedback. While effective feedback is essential, its true impact lies in what students do with it. The key question we are now exploring as a College is: Do our students know how to implement the feedback they receive in their next learning opportunity?

This shift in thinking is helping us place greater emphasis on teaching students how to understand, apply and act upon feedback so that it becomes a meaningful part of their learning journey. By developing these skills, students are empowered to take greater ownership of their progress and continue to grow in confidence, capability and achievement.

We are excited to continue this important work throughout the year and remain committed to fostering a culture where feedback is not simply something students receive, but a tool they actively use to improve their learning every day.

Sending all our community members many blessings.

Ms Jacqui Genovese - Head of School, School of Entrepreneurs

From the SOE Assistant Principal

2027 Student leadership fast approaching

Term 3 marks the beginning of our 2027 student leadership journey. This week students will be submitting their applications to be considered for student leader roles for next year. Our process challenges students to think about the ways that they contribute to the life, culture and needs of the College. As a Pre-12 school, the opportunities to contribute are significant and mark the ongoing development of our young people as they take some of their final steps into adulthood and into the larger world.

This time can serve as an important reminder of some questions that our students (and teachers) should be asking themselves. Questions like, ‘How have I made an impact on the culture and environment of St Luke’s?’ We are constantly considering our impact and effectiveness as learners and making sure that we are always considerate of the ways that each person is called by God to share their gifts and talents with others. We are aware that people are on their journey, and are more conscious of helping our students realise that they are the product of many communities, communities that have helped to form them into men and women who solve problems, think innovatively, and love compassionately in our increasingly changing and challenging world. So, as all our students observe the leaders of 2027 vying for attention, we encourage them to think about their contributions, their acts of love and service that make St Luke’s an exceptional place for learning and growing into the best versions of themselves. Our main theory of action is simple, St Luke’s helps people ‘to become…’ As you read this newsletter, we invite everyone to consider who and what they will become and how to transform their goals into ways that recognise the power of this community and give and receive in equal measure in order to flourish.

Mr Francis O’Callaghan - Assistant Principal, School of Entrepreneurs

Wellbeing Update

From the Year 9 Wellbeing Coordinator

Welcome back to Term 3! It is hard to believe we are already in Week 3, and I would like to share some important information regarding the term ahead.

During our first Year 9 assembly in Week 2, students were introduced to our wellbeing focus for the term: anti-bullying and respectful relationships. These topics will continue to be explored throughout the term and will be a key focus during our Year 9 Wellbeing Day in Week 9.

In our assembly students were challenged to focus on some self-reflection relevant to the wellbeing focus of the term. Firstly students were reminded of “What success in Year 9 looks like” with reference to the 3 Rs (Respect, Responsibility and Resilience) and the expectation this term would be for students to be demonstrating these values every day. Secondly, students were challenged to do the following “Leave every person better than you found them” by choosing to be inclusive and using words for good. I hope that students continue to reflect on what was shared in their assembly throughout the term.

A reminder that full school winter uniform is to be worn for the remainder of the term. We appreciate your continued support in ensuring students arrive at school in the correct uniform each day.

We also ask for your assistance in reinforcing the school's mobile phone policy. Unfortunately, a number of students have already been found using their phones during the school day. As a reminder, mobile phones must remain off and away throughout the school day unless otherwise directed by a teacher.

Across all subject areas, students have been engaging in new learning and are beginning to prepare for upcoming assessment tasks. Encouraging your child to stay organised and keep up with classwork will help them achieve their best this term.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to another positive and productive term with our Year 9 students.

Mrs Jesse Moritz - Acting Year 9 Wellbeing Coordinator

From the Year 10 Wellbeing Coordinator

Year 10 Update – Term 3

Welcome back to Term 3, Year 10! It's fantastic to see students settling back into the routine of College life with focus and energy. A reminder that full College Winter uniform remains a requirement throughout the term, and we thank families for their continued support in ensuring students arrive each day dressed to the College's standard. As always, we're encouraging students to maintain high standards across all areas of College life — academically, socially, and in their presentation and conduct.

There's plenty happening on the calendar this term. Year 10 has an HSIE excursion coming up on Friday of Week 3, followed by the PDHPE excursion to BStreetsmart on Wednesday of Week 4 (families can find more information at bstreetsmart.org). Week 5 will see the Year 10 Student Development Day — details on each of these have been shared via Compass, please provide consent if you have not done so.

Finally, a wonderful congratulations to Josephine L, who recently performed alongside professional dance group GForce at ASAP XP, a well-known Filipino variety show, with her performance airing on TV recently. It was a proud moment for Josephine and her family, reflecting her confidence, teamwork, and dedication to dance. Congratulations, Josephine — we're so proud of you!!

Mr Dean Zaccaria - Year 10 Wellbeing Coordinator

From the Year 11 Wellbeing Coordinator

Last Term, students enjoyed the opportunity to attend Year 11 Retreat hosted across Benedict XVI Retreat Centre and Winbourne Edmund Rice Centre. It was 2 days of quality time with peers, reflecting on goals, and soaking up the winter sun. Students should be commended for their active participation and wonderful engagement with activities.

This term, Year 11 are approaching their Preliminary Examination block in Weeks 7-8 inclusive. As they prepare for their exams, here are some helpful tips:

Make and revise dedicated study notes
Review the syllabus for key words, concepts, and content that you can be assessed on
Complete practice questions under timed conditions to test your readiness
Proactively seek teacher feedback so you can prepare to do your best work
Practice your handwriting so it is easy for your teachers to read and mark

While we all hope to succeed in our exams, it is also just as important to take care of ourselves as we prepare. Exams can bring stress and apprehension, so you may notice that you/your child is becoming more anxious as these exams approach. If this is the case, try to talk about these worries and seek solutions. Sometimes the simple act of talking through your worries can make you feel better.

For any and all support, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Miss Breana Wick - Year 11 Wellbeing Coordinator

From the Year 12 Wellbeing Coordinator

We are now one week into the HSC Trial Examination period, and many Year 12 students have already completed several exams while continuing to prepare for those still ahead. This can be one of the most demanding times of the year, as students balance revision, assessment pressure, and the emotional ups and downs that often accompany high-stakes examinations.

As parents and caregivers, your support remains incredibly important. The way students are encouraged and supported during this period can have a significant impact on both their wellbeing and their ability to perform at their best.

While it may be tempting for students to spend every available moment studying, maintaining healthy routines is essential. Encourage your child to continue following a balanced approach by:

Maintaining a realistic study schedule.
Taking regular breaks between study sessions.
Staying physically active.
Spending time with family and friends.
Continuing activities that help them relax and recharge.

Consistency is often more effective than long hours of study when students are tired and stressed.

Some students will walk out of an exam feeling confident, while others may be disappointed by their performance. One of the most helpful messages parents can reinforce is to focus on the next opportunity rather than dwelling on the last exam.

Encourage your child to:

Reflect briefly on what went well.
Identify any lessons they can apply moving forward.
Refocus their energy on upcoming examinations.

Remind them that each exam is a new opportunity to demonstrate their learning.

The Trial HSC examinations are an important milestone, but they are not the end of the journey. The feedback and experience gained during this period will help students identify areas for growth as they prepare for the final HSC examinations.

Students should be reminded that success is not determined by a single exam or result. Persistence, effort, and a willingness to learn from challenges are all valuable qualities that will serve them well beyond school.

Mrs Sharon Eldridge - Acting Year 12 Wellbeing Coordinator

What’s been happening Across the Curriculum . . .

Religious Education

Year 9

This term, our Year 9 Religion students will be exploring the big question: “Would the world be better off without religion?”

Throughout the term, students will investigate the positive impact religion can have on individuals, communities and society. They will explore how religious traditions build intentional faith communities, contribute to humanitarian work and peacebuilding, and provide meaning, purpose and a sense of belonging. Students will also consider the more challenging aspects of religion, including instances where religion has been used to cause harm, encouraging them to engage thoughtfully with different perspectives.

Their learning will culminate in a 4–5 minute FED (Faith every Day) Talk, where students will argue that religion is a force for good in the world. Drawing on their class learning, research, historical and contemporary examples, and personal reflections, students will develop and present a clear argument about what Australia might lose if religion were to disappear.

This learning experience is designed to develop not only students’ knowledge of religion, but also their ability to think critically, engage with different perspectives, communicate confidently and articulate the positive contribution religion can make to society.

Year 10

Term 3 will see our Year 10 Religion students exploring the idea of God’s Universal Call to Holiness and what this call might look like in their own lives. Students will consider the importance of holiness in the world and explore how Scripture and Church teachings encourage Christians to live lives of purpose.

Throughout the unit, students will reflect on the challenges and problems they see in the world and consider how their own gifts and experiences might shape the way they respond. They will also explore the connection between discernment, vocation and living out God’s call, considering how their words and actions can contribute positively to the world around them.

Their learning will culminate in a 4–5 minute “God’s Call to Holiness” speech, where students will bring together their learning and personal reflections. Students will reflect on who they are, what they can contribute, the problems they hope to address, and the ways they believe God may be calling them to make a difference. Through this experience, students are encouraged to see holiness not simply as an ideal, but as an active call to use their gifts, make thoughtful choices and contribute to a better world.

PDHPE

Year 10

Term 3 is an exciting and important time for PDHPE in year 10. Throughout the term, students will be exploring the unit ‘Better Safe than Sorry’, a meaningful learning experience that students can transfer into their own lives as they transition from teenagers to young adults. The driving question ‘how can we empower young people to respond positively to risks’ allows students to reflect on the risk taking behaviours young people engage in and determine whether risk taking is positive, negative, healthy or dangerous. By engaging in this unit of work, students are encouraged to advocate for their health, wellbeing and overall safety.

This unit also gives year 10 students the opportunity to attend the ‘BStreetSmart’ excursion. This day is an empowering and inspiring experience, where students will learn about the great importance of making safe choices on the road. The day will involve students witnessing a live crash reenactment which gives students insights into how first responders work to save lives in real time. The excursion also allows students to hear real life stories from survivors, first responders and families who have first hand experiences of the effects of road trauma, road accidents and unsafe driving. The day offers students with resources, insights and activities to encourage them to make safe choices on the road.

Finally, Year 10 is enjoying their last year of sport in the junior PDHPE subject. This term, students are having fun with their peers and engaging in a range of team sports, such as basketball, ultimate frisbee, capture the flag, netball, touch footy and more. Students are making the most of PDHPE practical with their friends before they enter senior year next year.

Pathways and Partnerships

Work Experience

The school holidays provided valuable industry experience for several of our students, who completed work experience across occupational therapy, speech pathology, law, dentistry and real estate. These opportunities allowed students to explore potential careers, develop workplace skills and gain a better understanding of their chosen industries.

Leadership in Complexity

Term 3 also began with an outstanding achievement from five of our Year 11 students, who successfully completed Leadership in Complexity, a first-year university subject offered through Academy U at Western Sydney University.

Congratulations to:

Salma – Distinction

Ethan – Distinction

Aarna – Distinction

Pragalbha – Distinction

Jonah – Distinction

These students are all eligible to receive an early offer to Western Sydney University, on the condition they complete Year 12. They will also be eligible to apply for the Academy U Engagement Scholarship to support their future studies at Western Sydney University.

TAFE YES Program

This term we have two students doing the TAFE YES Plumbing Program, where they will gain practical experience and valuable introductory skills in the plumbing industry.

Tavian and Mikhail are both interested in pursuing a career in the trades and we look forward to seeing where this leads them.

Head Start Program

Applications for the UniSQ Head Start Program Trimester 3 will open soon. This opportunity allows eligible students in Years 10 and 11 to complete a first-year university subject at no cost. Students require a B-grade average and can select from subjects across more than eight study areas, including psychology, engineering, health and law. Last term, Simran successfully completed a first year law subject and found it a valuable experience.

Families can now keep up to date with the latest career opportunities, university programs, apprenticeships, work experience and pathway information by following our Careers and Pathways Instagram page:

@stlukesmp_pathways

https://www.instagram.com/stlukesmp_pathways/