Term 2, Week 9

News from the School of Entrepreneurs

A message from the School of Entrepreneurs Head of School

Dear members of the School of Entrepreneurs community,

As part of our ongoing commitment to improving student learning outcomes through the College Strategic Improvement Plan, St Luke’s Catholic College continues to place a strong focus on developing student writing across Years 5–12. Building on the work shared earlier this year, teachers across all Key Learning Areas are continuing to collect and analyse student writing samples, using this evidence to evaluate progress, identify next steps and refine teaching practices to best support student growth.

Writing is a skill that extends far beyond the classroom. It is fundamental to how students communicate their thinking, demonstrate understanding and engage with the world around them. Whether composing a science report, analysing a historical source, explaining mathematical reasoning or responding to an examination question, strong writing skills are essential for success.

Parents and carers play an important role in supporting the development of writing at home. Encouraging students to write regularly, discuss their ideas and reflect on their learning can have a significant impact on both confidence and achievement. Some simple strategies families can use include:

Encouraging your child to verbally explain their thinking in complete sentences when discussing schoolwork or current events
Asking your child to summarise what they have learned each day in a short written paragraph or on their own learning journey blog
Supporting regular reading, as strong readers are often stronger writers
Reviewing assessment notifications together and discussing what the question is asking before students begin planning their response
Encouraging students to proofread their work, checking for clarity, accuracy and detail
Providing opportunities for authentic writing, such as emails, journals, letters, reflections or planning documents

One particularly valuable strategy is helping students learn to unpack questions before they begin writing. This involves:

identifying key command terms or verbs (such as analyse, explain, justify, evaluate and so on)
highlighting important content from the syllabus and considering exactly what the question requires
determining what the limitations are within the question for example words like AND, OR and the use of plurals

This process supports students to structure their thinking, respond more accurately and write with greater purpose. Parents can reinforce this approach when students are completing consolidation activities, engaging in flipped learning, preparing for assessments or studying for the upcoming Trial HSC examinations.

As we approach the end of the term, we encourage students to continue practising their writing skills over the break. Consistent practice, even in small amounts, helps students strengthen their ability to organise ideas, communicate clearly and respond effectively to a range of writing tasks. As teachers continue to evaluate student progress through ongoing data collection, this partnership between school and home will play an important role in supporting every learner's growth.

Together, we can help our students become confident writers, effective communicators and successful lifelong learners.

HSC Holiday Workshops

Revision for Trial HSC Examinations Term 2 Holidays 2026

Our staff continuously demonstrate their commitment to the studies and learning growth of our students. As such there are a number of Year 12 teachers who have opted to run holiday workshops for our Year 12 students in the coming vacation period. Please see the timetable and details below. This is NOT mandatory for students to attend and as a result, no new educational material/content will be presented during these sessions, however, this is a great opportunity to revise, seek feedback and refine supplementary tasks to consolidate what they already know. I encourage all Year 12 students to save these dates and to take this opportunity to invest in their HSC preparation now.

Venue: All workshops running in the timetable below are located in the rooming as indicated in the timetable.

All students must sign in and out using the QR code issued to them when they enter the classroom. The College premises must be vacated by no later than 2pm each day. Please encourage your son or daughter to be in attendance.

SAVE the DATE

HSC MAJOR WORKS IN PROGRESS SHOWCASE CHECKPOINT #2

Date: Tuesday 21st July 2026

Time: 4-6pm

We are excited to extend an additional opportunity to our Year 12 students and their parents who are undertaking an HSC Major Work course in 2026. This includes the following courses: Design and Technology (Year 11 accelerated class), Industrial Technology Multimedia, Visual Arts and Music 1. This is a compulsory event for students in Year 12 studying these courses. Year 10 and 11 students are also invited to attend in order to have the chance to be exposed to the expectations required of students with respect to the ongoing nature of these courses and the quality of the projects and performances required in Major Work subjects.

Wishing you and your families a safe and well deserved break ahead.

Ms Jacqui Genovese

Head of School - School of Entrepreneurs

From the SOE Assistant Principal

In my last entry for The Net, I wrote about encouragement vs pressure and the importance of high expectations throughout all experiences. I also commented on the way that encouragement and high expectations can be different for each person and our job is to find the most effective way to encourage our students. This is a challenging time, where following the right path can be difficult for many reasons. Perhaps the most difficult part as teachers and parents is trying to find the sweet balance in our relationships with students and our responsibility in helping them grow into the best version of themselves. In guiding and correcting behaviour and work, we can sometimes miss the opportunities to take stock of all that has been achieved and the successes that sometimes are taken for granted.

With this in mind, I would like to share some observations about our young people and the ways in which they make themselves, the College and their families proud.

When Year 9 had their reflection day with Chris Doyle, they were engaged, respectful and reflective. It was wonderful to hear the response from Chris as well as our leadership team as they witnessed the goodwill and participation on this day. It was particularly inspiring to see people come out of their comfort zone and sing, dance and collaborate to make the day really special. These days are opportunities for us to celebrate our community and the gifts that we share and we are proud of the ways that Year 9 are contributing to our community.

I was privileged to participate in the Year 10 Next Level Self pitch presentations this week. To hear our Year 10 students speak about their visions for their future was very inspiring. I was able to hear the consistency in our community around our Respect for Others, Respect for Self and Respect for our Environment. Students are clear in their desire and align their values with their future pathways.

It is wonderful to see how well Year 11 has transitioned into stage 6 in 2026. As we monitor levels of engagement and quality of work, students are responding to feedback and integrating it into their work. As I engage with Year 11 in their classrooms, I see increased levels of accountability and growing responsibility for themselves as learners.

We are all really impressed with the levels of engagement with our student advisor Jodi Arrow. The way this has ignited new energy in Year 12 with greater clarity in their learning journey which has resulted in increased enthusiasm for their learning and a greater understanding of how much their work and effort has done for them on their journey so far. This will give them a much needed advantage as they head into their trial examination period next term!

As a team, schools, students and families appear to be experiencing encouragement and support as well as high expectations. Together we can continue to help our young people flourish.

Mr Francis O’Callaghan

Assistant Principal, School of Entrepreneurs

Wellbeing Update

From the Year 9 Wellbeing Coordinator

As we draw to the end of Semester One, I would like to sincerely thank both our students and parents for a wonderful term. Parents, your ongoing support plays a vital role in your child's success and development. Students, thank you for the enthusiasm, effort and character you bring to our school community each day.

In Week 8, Year 9 students participated in Reflection Day with Chris Doyle, where they experienced a motivational presentation delivered in a unique and engaging format. Through humour, karaoke, runway walks and meaningful conversations, Chris encouraged students to reflect on their choices and consider how the decisions they make today can have both direct and indirect impacts on their futures.

I am also pleased to share that Chris complimented our Year 9 students on their behaviour and engagement throughout the day. I would like to commend all Year 9 students for the respect and maturity they demonstrated during this experience.

Towards the end of Week 8, a Year Meeting was held to revisit our expectations and remind students of the importance of making positive choices. Topics discussed included:

The Mobile Phone Policy
Adhering to the school's "Hands Off" policy
Meeting uniform expectations
Demonstrating respectful behaviour towards teachers and peers
Continuing to work diligently, as subject recommendations are based on students' application and effort throughout this year.

As we head into the Winter Holidays, I encourage all students to take the opportunity to rest, recharge and spend quality time with family and friends.

I wish all Year 9 families a safe and enjoyable holiday break. If you are travelling, safe travels, and thank you once again for a wonderful Term 2.

Mrs Jesse Moritz - Acting Year 9 Wellbeing Coordinator

From the Year 10 Wellbeing Coordinator

Year 10 students engaged in their Reflection Day with Chris Doyle during Week 8, coming together as a cohort for a day of connection, faith and celebration on what makes everyone unique. Students are to be commended for their exceptional behaviour and enthusiasm throughout the day.

Furthermore, students have been busy completing their Pitch Presentations, aligned with their subject preferences for Stage 6 courses. Once again, this process has been a fantastic achievement for our students, who have all applied themselves admirably. In the coming weeks, the email will be sent for students to access and select their courses for Year 11, 2027.

Wishing all Year 10 students and parents a wonderful and restful Term 2 break when it arrives.

Mr Dean Zaccaria - Year 10 Wellbeing Coordinator

From the Year 12 Wellbeing Coordinator

As we move towards the end of Term 2, our focus remains firmly on supporting students to achieve their personal best in all assessment tasks and examinations. The coming weeks are critically important, and we encourage all students to approach their studies with purpose, consistency, and determination.

Assessment tasks continue to play a significant role in students' overall achievement. Parents can assist by helping their child establish routines that promote success, including ensuring they are well prepared, well rested, and completing all tasks to the highest standard of which they are capable. Adequate sleep, effective time management, and maintaining healthy habits are all essential components of academic performance.

Students should now be maintaining a regular study routine that includes ongoing revision of previously learned content rather than simply preparing for upcoming tasks. Consistent revision strengthens understanding and retention of knowledge over time and reduces the stress associated with last-minute study. At this stage, students should also begin working through past examination papers and practising extended written responses under timed conditions. This not only familiarises them with examination-style questions but also helps develop confidence, exam technique, and the ability to communicate their knowledge clearly.

Handwriting remains an important consideration for written examinations. Students are encouraged to regularly practise producing responses that are neat, organised, and legible. Clear presentation allows markers to focus on the quality of the response rather than struggling to decipher the writing.

With Trial HSC examinations commencing at the beginning of Term 3, the upcoming holiday period represents the final opportunity for students to consolidate their learning, identify any gaps in their knowledge, and ensure all syllabus content has been covered. Students should use this time wisely to review syllabus dot points, organise notes, seek clarification where needed, and refine their understanding across all subjects.

For students completing major works, projects, or performances, careful planning will be essential. While these major works require significant attention, students must ensure they maintain balance and continue allocating sufficient time to all of their courses. Success in the HSC is built through consistent effort across every subject area, not solely through the completion of major projects.

As always, we remind students of the importance of upholding our College expectations regarding uniform. Attention to personal presentation reflects pride in oneself, respect for the College community, and an appreciation for the standards we collectively uphold. All students are expected to wear the formal winter uniform and bring their St Luke's school bag each day. Sports uniforms should only be worn on designated sport days and should not become everyday attire. If uniform items have been misplaced, damaged, or outgrown, families are encouraged to check lost property or arrange replacements through the College Uniform Shop as soon as possible.

Finally, please continue to monitor your child's wellbeing during this demanding period. Many students are experiencing increased pressure as they approach their final examinations, and this can sometimes impact motivation, confidence, and overall wellbeing. Open conversations at home, encouragement, and maintaining healthy routines can make a significant difference. If you feel your child would benefit from additional support or regular check-ins, please do not hesitate to contact me. We also strongly encourage students to take advantage of the upcoming holiday HSC workshops being offered at the College, which provide valuable opportunities for revision, feedback, and exam preparation.

The months ahead will require commitment, resilience, and focus, but with consistent effort and the support of both home and school, our Year 12 students are well positioned to finish their schooling journey strongly.

Mrs Sharon Eldridge - Acting Year 12 Wellbeing Coordinator

What’s been happening Across the Curriculum . . .

English

Year 11 Advanced English have been experimenting with a range of tonal styles this week as part of their preparation for the upcoming discursive writing task. Working in small groups under timed conditions, students co‑constructed a paragraph in response to an unseen tone, such as speculative, formal, or humorous. To acknowledge their creativity and collaboration, students were recognised with a series of light‑hearted classroom awards, celebrating their ability to adapt voice and style with confidence.

Science

Year 9 Science – The Nervous System

Year 9 Science students have been investigating the structure and function of the nervous system, with a particular focus on how nerve cells transmit information throughout the body. As part of their learning, students worked collaboratively to design and build models of neurons, identifying key structures such as the cell body, dendrites, axon and myelin sheath.

Year 11 Biology Depth Study – Penrith Lakes Excursion

Our Year 11 Biology students recently visited Penrith Lakes as part of their Depth Study, where they investigated the structure and function of ecosystems in a real-world environment.

During the excursion, students conducted fieldwork to examine both biotic and abiotic factors influencing the ecosystem. They collected and analysed data on water quality, biodiversity, and habitat characteristics, applying the scientific inquiry skills developed in class. Students also explored the interactions between organisms and their environment, considering how changes to environmental conditions can impact ecosystem stability.

The excursion provided an excellent opportunity for students to experience Biology beyond the classroom, strengthening their understanding of ecological concepts while developing valuable fieldwork and data analysis skills.

Year 12 Chemistry – Organic Chemistry in Action

Year 12 Chemistry students have been exploring the world of organic chemistry, investigating the structure, properties and reactions of a range of organic compounds. As part of their studies, students carried out a practical investigation to synthesise esters through the reaction of carboxylic acids and alcohols.

Students observed the characteristic fruity aromas produced by different esters and examined how molecular structure influences the properties and applications of organic compounds.

Year 12 Physics – Exploring the Life Cycles of Stars

Year 12 Physics students have been investigating the life cycles of stars and the information astronomers can obtain from the Hertzsprung–Russell (HR) Diagram. To deepen their understanding, students worked collaboratively to construct their own models of the HR Diagram, identifying the relationships between a star's temperature, luminosity, colour and stage in its life cycle.

Students explored how stars evolve over time, from main sequence stars through to red giants, white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes. Building their own models encouraged discussion as students applied their knowledge to explain patterns and trends observed in stellar evolution.

Mathematics

Year 9 - Utilising technology in the Mathematics classroom

Our students and teachers have access to a range of technology and resources to enhance their learning. Below we can see the use of iPad, digital whiteboard, Math Space website, calculators, whiteboard tables, exercise books. It is great to see students making use of the appropriate technology for the purpose of their learning. For example, a whiteboard and marker may be all a student needs to communicate their thoughts, whereas Math Space might be more suitable to revise content they require.

PDHPE

Year 12 Health and Movement Science

Year 12 students have successfully concluded the delivery of all HSC content within the Health and Movement Science syllabus. Current instructional efforts are focused on addressing specific knowledge gaps through targeted workshops. These sessions concentrate on key syllabus components, including "Training for Improved Performance" and "Health in an Australian and Global Context." Furthermore, students are fulfilling mandatory requirements by engaging in comprehensive depth studies. As part of their third formal assessment, they are developing professional portfolios that detail fitness training schedules and programs, effectively applying theoretical principles to practical applications.

Year 11 Health and Movement Science

Year 11 Health and Movement Science students have been investigating the intricate systems of the human body and their physiological functions. The curriculum has emphasised the etymological origins of anatomical terminology, specifically its Greek and Latin roots, enabling students to decode and identify musculoskeletal structures with precision. These foundational concepts have been applied to the analysis of complex bodily movements through formal written descriptions. Furthermore, the cohort has commenced a study of health in the Australian context, focusing on both individuals and communities. This area of study requires students to interpret complex data sets and evaluate the efficacy of various health promotion strategies. Students have also explored the historical evolution of the concept of health and its subsequent influence on contemporary societal stereotypes.

Community and Family Studies (CAFS) Year 11

Students have commenced a new core module examining the dynamics of individuals within groups and the subsequent impact on the stability of various social structures. To facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the components and dimensions of groupings, as well as their effects on both the individual and the collective, students have been utilizing numerous mnemonic aids, including SHESEA, SPEECS, FROCSS, and GRAM. Furthermore, the cohort has been analysing various media, including film and television excerpts, to identify specific roles within a group and evaluate their influence on group dynamics.

The Net

Term 2 Week 9 2026

Issue 6 · 19 Jun 2026

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