School of Entrepreneurs
News from the School of Entrepreneurs
A message from the School of Entrepreneurs Head of School
Dear Families,
Term 3 has been a significant and rewarding term, marked by achievement, growth and important milestones across the School of Entrepreneurs. For our Year 12 students, the term represents the culmination of 13 years of schooling, while for our Year 11 students, it marks the successful completion of their Preliminary course of study and the beginning of their journey towards the HSC. Year 10 have received their pattern of study moving into 2027 and Year 9 begin their transition into Year 10. There are lots of achievements to celebrate and much to look forward to.
Being a Support during the HSC Examinations
With HSC exams just around the corner, many HSC students will be feeling a mix of pressure and anticipation. While this can be a stressful time, parents can play a crucial role in supporting their son/daughter. As the HSC exams approach here are some ways families can support their son/daughter.
Avoiding Multitasking when studying
In reality, multitasking divides attention and decreases performance. Encourage your son/daughter to focus on one subject or task at a time in a quiet, calm, distraction free environment to maximise concentration. Being mindful whilst studying will pay off and prevent the brain fog accumulated from a multitasking approach.
The Importance of Sleep for MemorySleep plays a pivotal role in reinforcing what students learn. During sleep, the brain strengthens new memory pathways, a process known as "memory consolidation." Sleep deprivation disrupts this process, making it harder to retain and recall information.
Unfortunately, many Australian teens aren't getting enough sleep, often due to late-night screen use, socialising or extended study hours. In the lead-up to exams, it might seem tempting to sacrifice sleep to cram in extra study, but this could harm performance on the day of the exam. Instead, try to establish a consistent sleep routine and remind your teen of the direct link between good sleep and better memory and focus.
Boosting Study Quality with Active LearningEffective study isn't just about the amount of time spent with classroom material, it’s also about how students engage with the material. Many students rely on passive study strategies like re-reading or highlighting notes. While these methods are easy, they don’t actively engage the brain in recalling and organising information.
Encourage your teen to use active strategies such as:
- Retrieval practice: Testing themselves by answering practice questions or explaining concepts out loud.
- Spaced learning: Instead of cramming the night before, spreading study sessions over days or weeks to allow the brain to revisit and strengthen knowledge.
These techniques help move information from short-term to long-term memory, leading to better retention and understanding.
Managing Stress for Better PerformanceA moderate level of stress can motivate students to study, but too much stress can overwhelm them, making it harder to concentrate and recall information. Research shows that up to one in four Australian teens experience high levels of stress and anxiety around final exams.
Parents can help by keeping things in perspective. It's important that from early on students are encouraged to ‘put their best foot forward’ as they prepare for their exams therefore reducing any undue pressure on them about exam performance because the hard work was invested into their study over an extended period of time. While the HSC and ATAR are significant, there are many pathways to university or future careers beyond exam scores. Many universities offer early entry programs or alternative admission methods, so even if things don’t go as planned, options remain.
Encourage your teen to take breaks, connect with friends and family and maintain a balanced lifestyle. Showing calmness and offering reassurance can also help them stay grounded during this challenging time.
By focusing on effective study strategies, ensuring sufficient sleep and managing stress in a healthy way, parents can help their son/daughter feel more confident and prepared as they approach their HSC exams. Success isn’t just about the result, as an influencing factor that contributes to this success is the support we offer to enhance their well-being along the way.
Below are some strategies that we encourage students to adopt in order to look after themselves whilst preparing and completing their HSC exams.
(Adopted from The Study Skills Handbook, Salter, 2026)
CSPD Enrichment Review Consultation
CSPD are inviting parents and carers of students currently enrolled in Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) to participate in a lunchtime consultation session as part of the CSPD Enrichment Review. The review is exploring how CSPD can continue to provide meaningful, accessible and sustainable enrichment opportunities for students across our schools, including CAPTIVATE, Sport and other enrichment programs.
Your experience and perspective as a parent/carer are important to this work. The consultation will be facilitated by Deloitte Access Economics (DAE) and will provide an opportunity to share your views on:
- Your awareness and experience of enrichment opportunities available to your child
- What you believe your child values and benefits from
- What is working well and should continue
- Any barriers that may make it difficult for students to participate
- Access and equity across CSPD schools
- The impact enrichment opportunities have on students' learning, confidence, wellbeing and engagement
- What you would like to see offered to students in the future
Session details
Format: Online Teams consultation
Date and timing: Tuesday 22 September at 12.00pm
Duration: Approximately 45–60 minutes
Facilitated by: Deloitte Access Economics (DAE)
Your participation is completely voluntary and we encourage parents and carers from a range of CSPD schools and different student experiences to take part.
If you are interested in participating, please let Michelle Saad, msaad13@parra.catholic.edu.au know and CSPD will send you an invitation to the session.
Thank you for considering contributing your perspective to this important review. Your feedback will help inform the future direction of enrichment opportunities for students across CSPD.
I wish to convey my best wishes to our HSC students embarking on their upcoming HSC exams and wish them all good luck. I also encourage all our other students in the School of Entrepreneurs to take the opportunity to rest and recover from a busy term in the upcoming holidays and I look forward to seeing everyone return in Week 1, Term 4.
Ms Jacqui Genovese
Head of School of Entrepreneurs
From the Year 9 Wellbeing Coordinator
Term 3 has been a busy and positive term for our Year 9 students, with many opportunities to learn, contribute and make a difference within our school community. We would like to share a few highlights from the past few weeks.
It was wonderful to see a number of our Year 9 students volunteer at the Father’s Day Sausage Sizzle. Their effort, enthusiasm and willingness to give their time made the event a great success. A heartfelt thank you to all students who supported this community initiative.
Students have been actively involved in their Service and Active Volunteering as part of their Life Design unit. Their contributions have had a positive impact across the school and our wider community. Examples of their service include helping Kindergarten students with reading, assisting with sport in the School of Foundation, participating in rubbish clean-up activities around playground areas, running Drawing Club in the Hub during recess and lunch, and reading with students during recess and lunch.
Our Year 9 Wellbeing Day provided students with valuable information about cyberbullying, the importance of being an upstander rather than a bystander, and ways to respond positively when they see others experiencing difficulties. Students also developed a deeper understanding of what respectful relationships look like and how they can contribute to a positive, safe and inclusive school culture.
Lastly, thank you for your ongoing support throughout the term. We sincerely appreciate your partnership and the encouragement you provide to your child’s learning and wellbeing. We hope all families enjoy a safe, restful and enjoyable holiday break, and we look forward to welcoming our Year 9 students back next term.
Please remember that students will return next term in full summer uniform.
We wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday break.
Mrs Jesse Moritz - Acting Year 9 Wellbeing Coordinator
From the Year 10 Wellbeing Coordinator
As Term 3 draws to a close, I want to commend our Year 10 students for their continued dedication and the strong way they are finishing the term. This is a significant transitional period, and the cohort has demonstrated impressive maturity, particularly as they navigate the working phase of finalising their subject selections. We encourage families to continue these valuable conversations at home over the upcoming break as they take next term to prepare for their transition, ensuring every student feels confident and well-prepared for senior study.
Looking ahead, Term 4 promises to be a busy, productive, and highly rewarding time as our students enter their final stretch of middle high school. There is so much to look forward to in the coming months as they prepare to step up and take on the role of senior students next year. We are incredibly proud of their progress and remain fully committed to supporting them every step of the way as they finish this pivotal year with momentum, focus, and excitement. Wishing all students and families the very best for the upcoming holiday break.
Mr Dean Zaccaria - Year 10 Wellbeing Coordinator
From the Year 11 Wellbeing Coordinator
Year 11 have returned to their regular learning schedule this week following two weeks of Preliminary Examinations. Students should be commended for their wonderful efforts in this first exam block. As students eagerly await and receive results, we remind them to practice their skills of academic resilience: sometimes a result that is lower than expected can come as a shock, but provide invaluable feedback for how to improve in future assessments.
Next term brings the first term of the HSC, so let’s be conscious to practice positive study habits from day one. Compile study notes as you go, actively discuss your goals with teachers to collaborate for success, and check in on yourself to monitor your progress and wellbeing. Term 4 also brings exciting new privileges, our Year 12 Class of 2027 Jackets, access to the Senior Study/Common Room on Level 3 during recess and lunch, and the opportunity to take on leadership roles. Each and every student in the cohort is a leader, badge or not, so I am looking forward to seeing how you all step up and become even better role models for the younger students.
Miss Breana Wick - Year 11 Wellbeing Coordinator
From the Year 12 Wellbeing Coordinator
As the end of formal schooling draws near, our Year 12 students are preparing for a memorable and significant final week. This special week provides an opportunity for students to celebrate their achievements, strengthen friendships, reflect on their journey, and mark the conclusion of thirteen years of schooling.
The week begins on Monday with graduation rehearsal activities, ensuring students are well prepared for the important events ahead. Students will also enjoy an ice cream fundraiser and time together as a cohort before the celebrations officially commence. Tuesday, students will participate in the annual Year 12 Picnic Day at Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre. This much-loved tradition provides an opportunity for the cohort to relax, have fun, and enjoy one another’s company before the demands of final HSC preparation begin. Students will travel together by bus and spend the day enjoying the facilities and sharing a picnic lunch.
Wednesday begins with a Year 12 breakfast before students gather for their final rehearsals and assemblies. The Final School Assembly and Guard of Honour are always emotional moments, providing the school community with an opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of the graduating class and farewell them as they conclude their time as students of St Luke’s Catholic College. This year the Guard of Honour will look different where students will be farewelled through the gate on Northbourne Avenue by the local public park. As we do, please encourage your son / daughter to make good decisions and to be safe at this time. The celebrations continue on Wednesday evening with the Graduation Liturgy and Graduation Ceremony. Students and their families will gather to celebrate the achievements, growth, and resilience of the Class of 2026. Beginning with canapés on the Futsal Court, followed by the Graduation Liturgy and Ceremony, this event recognises not only academic success but also the personal journeys, friendships, leadership, and service that have shaped each student throughout their years at the College.
On Thursday evening, students will come together one final time for the Year 12 Formal at Novella on the Park. The Formal is an opportunity for students to celebrate their shared experiences, create lasting memories, and enjoy a well-deserved evening with friends as they transition from school life towards the next stage of their journey.
While this week is a time of celebration, it is also important that students continue to make safe and responsible choices. As young adults representing themselves, their families, and St Luke’s Catholic College, we encourage students to approach each event with maturity, respect, and good judgement. Whether attending the Picnic Day, Graduation Ceremony, or Formal, students are expected to uphold the values of the College, look out for one another, and make decisions that prioritise their wellbeing and safety. We ask parents to continue reinforcing these messages at home so that every student can enjoy these special occasions, create positive memories, and conclude their school journey in a manner that reflects the dignity and character they have developed throughout their years at St Luke’s Catholic College.
To all parents, we thank you for your partnership, support, and encouragement throughout your child’s education. The journey to Year 12 graduation is one that has been shared by students, families, and staff alike. While this final week is a time of celebration, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter as students turn their attention to the HSC examinations and the opportunities that lie beyond school.
We congratulate the Class of 2026 on all they have accomplished and encourage them to embrace these final moments together. As they leave St Luke’s Catholic College, we hope they do so with dignity, gratitude, and confidence, inspiring others while honouring their unique personal journey. We wish every student the very best as they prepare for their HSC examinations and look forward to celebrating their achievements at Graduation and beyond.
Mrs Sharon Eldridge - Acting Year 12 Wellbeing Coordinator
From the Leader of Wellbeing, Growth and Development
As part of our regular fortnightly student wellbeing check-ins, we continue to identify sleep as an area that a number of our students are finding difficult to manage.
Healthy sleep plays an important role in concentration, learning, mood, emotional regulation and overall wellbeing. As a guide, children aged 6–12 generally need around 9–11 hours of sleep each night, while teenagers need approximately 8–10 hours.
Families can support healthy sleep by encouraging consistent bed and wake times, reducing screen use before bed, keeping devices out of bedrooms where possible, developing a calm bedtime routine and limiting caffeine and energy drinks later in the day.
We encourage families to have a simple conversation at home about sleep and consider one small change that may help improve their child's routine.
For further information and practical strategies, parents and carers may find the following resources helpful:
SchoolTV – St Luke's Catholic CollegeExplore the Healthy Body Series, including information and expert advice about sleep.St Luke's SchoolTV
Healthdirect Australia – Sleep Tips for ChildrenPractical information about healthy sleep routines and recommended sleep times.Sleep tips for children
Thank you for continuing to work in partnership with us to support the health and wellbeing of our students.
What’s been happening Across the Curriculum . . .
Science
SOE Science Week
This year, students celebrated Science Week by getting involved in a range of lunchtime activities linked to the theme “Seeds of Science.”
Students explored the idea of a “seed” as a starting point for growth, discovery and scientific investigation. They created crystal snowflakes, beginning with a small seed crystal and observing how crystals grew over time. Students also made their own cress heads, planting cress seeds and watching how the right conditions allow a tiny seed to begin growing.
To take a closer look at the science inside a seed, students also participated in seed dissections, identifying the different structures and exploring how each part supports the early growth and development of a plant. A great way to celebrate Science Week and the Seeds of Science!
Stage 6 Science Courses - Masterclasses
Our Year 12 Chemistry, Physics and Biology students have been working hard in a series of Masterclasses designed to consolidate their knowledge, strengthen their skills and support continued improvement as they prepare for the HSC.
The Masterclasses have provided students with an opportunity to revisit key concepts, unpack more challenging areas of the course and, importantly, apply their knowledge to past HSC questions. Students have been working through questions together, discussing different approaches and looking closely at what is required to move their responses to the next level.
A key focus has been helping students recognise that improvement does not happen in isolation. By working together, asking questions, sharing strategies and learning from feedback, students are developing greater confidence in both their knowledge and their approach to HSC-style questions.
The sessions have also encouraged students to identify their own areas for improvement and take greater ownership of what they need to do next. Whether that is strengthening their understanding of a concept, improving a calculation or developing a more detailed extended response, the focus remains on continuous improvement and making every mark count.
It has been great to see our Year 12 scientists supporting one another and working towards a common goal. With continued practice, persistence and a willingness to learn from each other, our students are putting themselves in the best possible position as they head towards their HSC examinations.
CAPA
The St Luke’s College Music Faculty was proud to present our inaugural Years 10–12 Music Night, an evening that celebrated the talent, dedication and creativity of our student musicians.
The showcase provided senior students with an invaluable opportunity to perform their major works in progress as they prepare for their end-of-year examinations. Students demonstrated their developing skills across a variety of instruments, styles and performance settings, giving the audience a glimpse into the hard work and commitment required to prepare for senior music assessments.
The evening also highlighted the talents of our younger and emerging musicians, with students from the junior years taking to the stage to share their musical achievements. Their performances showcased the depth of talent developing within our College and provided an inspiring glimpse into the future of Music at St Luke’s.
The event was enjoyed by a large audience of parents, students and staff, whose support and encouragement created a wonderful atmosphere throughout the evening. The performances reflected not only musical excellence but also the confidence, resilience and passion that our students continue to develop through their participation in Music.
As the first event of its kind, the Music Night Showcase marks the beginning of what we hope will become a long-standing St Luke’s College tradition. We congratulate all performers on their outstanding efforts and thank our families, staff and community members for supporting the growth of Music within our College. A special thank you to both Mr Tromp and Ms Thoms for their passion and dedication for music education at our school.
Under the leadership of Miss Sarah Tomlinson, our Bollywood Cultural Dance Ensemble recently represented St Luke’s College at a local dance eisteddfod. Their hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence were evident throughout their performance, as students confidently showcased their talent, energy and passion for dance on stage.
The ensemble's months of preparation and rehearsal were rewarded with an outstanding third-place achievement. This result reflects not only the skill of our performers but also their teamwork, perseverance and willingness to strive for their personal best.
We congratulate all students involved and extend our thanks to Miss Tomlinson for her leadership, guidance and dedication to developing opportunities for students to celebrate and share their cultural heritage through the performing arts. We look forward to seeing the ensemble continue to grow and achieve success in future performances and competitions.
A huge congratulations to the St Luke’s College Bring It On Hip Hop Dance Ensemble, who recently competed at the prestigious Bring It On Dance Competition held at the EVAN Theatre, Penrith. Under the direction of Mr Joshua Jenkins, the ensemble delivered an energetic and polished performance that captivated both the audience and adjudicators.
The students' dedication, teamwork and commitment to countless hours of rehearsal were rewarded with an outstanding second-place finish. Their performance showcased not only impressive technical skill and creativity but also the confidence, passion and school spirit that make St Luke’s College performers stand out.
We congratulate all members of the ensemble on this fantastic achievement and thank Mr Jenkins for his leadership, expertise and commitment to providing students with opportunities to excel in the performing arts. We look forward to seeing what this talented group achieves next.
Pathways and Partnerships
Early entry offers are starting to roll in for our Class of 2026, and we are so proud of the opportunities our students have secured so far. These offers reflect the hard work, persistence and aspirations of our Year 12 students and are a reminder that there are many different pathways to success after school. Congratulations to all students who have received early offers and we look forward to celebrating even more achievements in the months ahead.
A huge congratulations to Rolene, who was recognised in the top 1% of work placement students across Western Sydney. Rolene was nominated by her host employer for her exceptional performance during her Information and Digital Technology work placement.
With more than 6,000 student placements across Western Sydney each year, this is an outstanding achievement and a reflection of Rolene’s professionalism, commitment and work ethic. Well deserved, Rolene!
Academy U
Our Year 10 Academy U students had the opportunity to take part in the Sustainable Futures Hackathon through Western Sydney University, an experience designed to challenge students to think creatively about the future of their communities and the world around them.
Working collaboratively, students explored real-world sustainability challenges and considered how innovative ideas, new ways of thinking and practical solutions could contribute to a more sustainable future. The Hackathon encouraged students to look beyond the classroom, identify issues that matter to them and their local communities, and develop ideas that could make a genuine difference.