From the Principal
- Reflection
- Celebrating Excellence: Governor-General’s Honours Recognition
- The Power of Reading for Academic Success
- Cocurricular Program
- Key Dates
Reflection
We are chosen, loved, and sent to make a difference, one small act at a time.
As a school community, it is easy to feel caught up in the busyness of learning, activities, work, and family life. There is always more to do, more to achieve, and more that could be asked of us. Yet at the heart of our faith is a simple and reassuring truth: we do not have to do everything, we are simply called to do our part with love.
Each member of our community students, families, and staff has been given gifts, opportunities, and relationships through which we can make a difference. Often, it is not the big moments that matter most, but the small, everyday choices: showing kindness, being patient, including others, offering encouragement, and doing our best.
When we focus on these small acts, we begin to create something much greater together, a community built on care, respect, and hope.
The words of St Oscar Romero remind us of this beautifully:
'We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realising that. This enables us to do something, and to do it very well… We are prophets of a future not our own.'
This is an invitation for all of us. We are not expected to have all the answers or solve every problem. Instead, we are called to be faithful in the small things, to contribute what we can, where we are. In doing so, we help shape a future filled with goodness, even if we do not see the full impact ourselves.
As we continue through the year, may we be encouraged by the knowledge that what we do each day matters. Every positive action, no matter how small, helps to build a stronger, kinder community.
Loving Lord,
You remind us that we are chosen and deeply loved.
Help us to use our gifts each day,
to show kindness, and to care for those around us.
When we feel overwhelmed give us peace,
and remind us that small actions can make a big difference.
Bless our families and our school community,
and guide us to be people of hope and service.
Amen.
Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us
St Pius X - Pray for Us
Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!
Celebrating Excellence: Governor-General’s Honours Recognition
The King's Birthday weekend brought the welcome release of the Governor‑General’s Honours List, and it is with great pride that we recognise one of our own within its ranks.
Former student Professor Simon Darcy (Terrey Hills, NSW) has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division for his significant service to tertiary education, and to inclusion and accessible environments. This national recognition reflects not only an outstanding academic career, but a lifelong commitment to advocacy and community impact.
Simon has maintained strong and valued ties with the College over many years. Many in our community will know him not only for his professional achievements, but for his ongoing generosity of time and spirit. He sponsors the Year 12 Award for Contribution to Sport, which proudly bears his name, and he is a familiar and welcome presence at Year 12 Graduation ceremonies, where he often presents the award in person. On occasion, he can also be spotted supporting from the sidelines at weekend games.
During his time as a student at St Pius X, Simon was a highly capable sportsman. A life-changing surfing accident left him wheelchair bound, yet it was characteristic of Simon that this setback became a turning point rather than a barrier. He has since devoted himself to academic inquiry and leadership, building an extensive and distinguished career centred on inclusion, accessibility, and community support.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Simon is widely regarded as an engaging speaker and 'great company.' He has returned to the College on numerous occasions to address year groups, sharing insights from his work and life experience. His presentations have been both thought-provoking and inspiring, challenging students to think broadly about resilience, opportunity, and service to others.
This honour is richly deserved. Simon Darcy’s achievements stand as a powerful example of determination, purpose, and generosity, and we are proud to count him among our alumni.
We warmly congratulate Simon on this well-earned recognition.
The Power of Reading for Academic Success
In today’s busy, screen-filled world, reading remains one of the most effective ways for students to strengthen their learning and improve academic performance. Regular reading builds focus, deepens understanding, and helps students process information more effectively across all subjects.
Students who read frequently develop stronger vocabulary and communication skills, making it easier to understand lessons, answer questions, and express ideas clearly. Reading also improves comprehension and critical thinking, helping learners analyse information, solve problems, and perform better in exams and assignments. All skills that will support students as they progress through their schooling and especially when they reach the HSC.
Building a reading habit does not need to be difficult. Setting aside even 15 - 20 minutes each day can make a difference. Choosing interesting material, creating a quiet reading space, and limiting distractions can help make reading enjoyable rather than a chore. Simple goals, like finishing a few pages daily, can also keep motivation high.
Our Year 5 and Year 7 students have been actively engaged in the Accelerated Reading program, showing great enthusiasm for developing their reading skills. By choosing books suited to their level and interests, students are building confidence and enjoying reading more.
The program encourages students to read regularly and reflect on what they have learned through quizzes, helping to strengthen comprehension, vocabulary, and thinking skills. I visited 5 Blue and 5 Gren this week and it was rewarding to see many students challenge themselves, set goals, and make steady progress in their reading.
Their efforts are already supporting improvement across other areas of learning, particularly writing and understanding of texts. We congratulate all participants and encourage continued reading at home to keep this positive momentum going.
As a community, encouraging a culture of reading at home and beyond can have a powerful impact. When reading becomes a shared priority, students grow into confident learners and stronger thinkers.
Reading is not just about improving grades, it is an investment in lifelong learning and success.
Cocurricular Program
The cocurricular program for the term will conclude following this week’s round. This serves as a timely reminder of the high standards the College upholds in all areas of cocurricular participation. Sportsmanship, respect for the game, and appreciation for officials should consistently be demonstrated at the highest level.
With the FIFA World Cup currently capturing global attention, one of its most admirable qualities is the respect shown between players and for the sport itself even as they compete intensely under the pressure of representing their nations. Let this be our inspiration to continue upholding these values in all that we do.
Best of luck to all our teams this week. May your efforts be rewarded with success.
Go the Blue and Gold!
Key Dates
Week 10
Mon 22/6 Year 5 - 10 Semester 1 Reports Issued
Tues 23/6 Chapel Mass / Upstanders Morning Tea
Thur 25/6 Final day for students / Parent Teacher / Student Interviews (1:30 pm - 6:30 pm) / Performing Arts European tour (25/6 - 9/7)
Fri 26/6 Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews (8:00 am - 4:30 pm)
Fide et Labore
By Faith and Hard work
Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever
Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal