Supporting Our Students
Wellbeing
It has been a busy and productive term in the Wellbeing space, with a range of initiatives and events supporting students’ connection, resilience, and overall wellbeing. One of the key events of the term was the International Women’s Day assembly, where we were privileged to hear from guest speaker Dr Tessa Needham, a writer, artist, and actor passionate about the intersection of creativity and technology. Her message encouraged students to value their strengths, support one another, and to contribute to the world around you through creativity. Salote and Leo performed a beautiful version of Adel’s song “Love in the dark”.
Students are reminded that support is always available at school through our counsellors and psychologists. External supports are also available, including Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), Headspace, and Lifeline (13 11 14).
Looking after your wellbeing is important.
Take time over the holidays to rest, stay connected with others, and reach out for support when you need it. You are never alone.
Ms. McInnes & Ms. Gunawan Daly
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Activities
As Term 1 draws to a close, we warmly welcome all our new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to our school community. It has been wonderful to see everyone settle into the rhythm of a new school year with enthusiasm and positivity.
We are delighted to welcome Ms N Johnson, who has joined JJ Cahill Memorial High School as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teacher. Ms. Johnson will be providing valuable support to our students, families, and teachers, helping to strengthen our community connections.
This term, the South Cares: Nanga Mai Marri ("Dream Big") mentoring program has officially commenced. This important initiative supports our students in developing high aspirations for their education and future employment through mentoring and skill-building activities.
A highlight of the term was a visit from the Australian Defence Force, who engaged with our students to discuss various opportunities and career pathways within the ADF. It was inspiring to see our students explore these possibilities and dream big for their futures.
We look forward to continuing this important work and supporting our students to thrive throughout the year.
Thank you for a great start to the year!
Ms. Welch & Ms. Johnson
Aboriginal Program Coordinators Team
Student Representative Council
The SRC team has returned to Term 1 with vigour and determination for further improvements for the school. Over the school holidays between Term 4 and Term 1, the team has worked collaboratively between members to plan for exciting project proposals for the school. Some of these projects include the planning of new shaded seating stations around the school, incorporating further leadership training and mentoring amongst members and developing plans for Harmony Day in Term 1.
In regards to Harmony Day, the SRC has obtained the full support from the school executives. With this opportunity, the SRCs has proven their prowess in leadership, communication and teamwork in organising the whole school assembly of Harmony Day, and also self-led the Cultural Food Stalls at Break 2 on Friday 20 March 2026. I want to also thank specifically Mr LK, Ms. Fitzgerald, the Tech Crew, Ms. De Mello and Mr David for their support in this event.
With new fervour, the team continued their determination for school improvement in the area of infrastructure. On Week 9 Tuesday 24 March 2026, the school hosted the NSW Department of Education School Infrastructure meeting, where six SRCs students presented to various departmental stakeholders to share the importance of infrastructure and how it affects the learning environment of students everyday. A special thanks to Omar, Ryan, Steven, Alya, Alicia and Anna for their excellent communication and representation of students' voices from the school to the department. This was an excellent showcase of leadership and growth in the students’ journey to be leaders in their own domains in their education journey.
I am proud to lead and witness the growth of student leadership culture within the school, and I look forward very much to what the future holds for our excellent student leaders and the SRCs.
Mr. Nguyen
Learning Hub
LST and the Learning Hub have had a very busy start to 2026, and we are delighted to welcome all of our new Year 7 students.
We began the academic year with ACER testing, followed by NAPLAN. It has been wonderful to see all students—both new and returning—approach these assessments with such enthusiasm and collaboration. We look forward to receiving the results.
A special thank you to Ms Whelan for her mammoth effort in organising these assessments, and to Ms De Mello for her ongoing support. We also acknowledge the outstanding work of Ms. N Johnson, now a fully qualified teacher, who continues to provide exceptional support to a range of our students. Her insight and understanding make a meaningful difference to their learning.
Our small group programs will commence next week, and the Learning Hub will continue to be available for timetabled students seeking additional support with their work.
As always, the aim of LST and the Learning Hub is to support students to engage with their learning in ways that work best for them. We recognise that every student learns differently and experiences school in their own way. The Learning Hub provides a supportive environment where students can continue their learning with personalised assistance.
We remain committed to making school the best possible place for all our learners.
Learning Hub Team
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are coming up:
Year 10 on June 9 (Week 8 Term 2)
Year 7 on September 15 (Week 9 Term 3)
Look out for year 10 vaccination cards and communications coming home or you can provide consent for your child online at https://engage.health.nsw.gov.au/engage
Library
Library News
There’s lots happening in the library, with reading taking centre stage through our new Reading Challenge! This whole-school initiative is all about encouraging students to read anything and everything - whether it’s a favourite series, a new genre, or a non-fiction title. As students reach reading milestones, they get to move their polaroid photo up the challenge wall, making their progress visible and something to celebrate.
We’re also supporting our Year 7 students as they begin their high school reading journey through the Premier’s Reading Challenge. To help them get started, they are exploring a range of different genres to discover what they enjoy most - building confidence and excitement around reading. These two challenges work hand-in-hand, and all students are encouraged to get involved.
There are also plenty of new books arriving in the library very soon! We’re adding a wide range of fiction, highly requested titles from students, engaging new non-fiction, and fresh Premier’s Reading Challenge selections, so there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
The library continues to be a welcoming space for reading, learning, and connecting. We encourage all students to get involved, join the challenge, and find their next great read.
Happy reading!
Mrs. Kasparian
Parents & Citizens
Term 2 has been another exciting one for P&C as we prepare for the next stage of our landscaping project towards the end of Term 2. Before then, we are getting ready for our Big Night Out raffle in Week 5: we already have some fantastic prizes, including two family photography packages at Verve Portraits, valued at $650 and $1095!
We are always on the lookout for raffle prizes: please reach out if you work for a business who would be able to donate vouchers or similar that we can use. All money raised is donated back to the school, to benefit all students. Stay tuned for raffle prize updates early next term!
The P&C (Parents and Carers Association) is a dedicated group of volunteers who work together to support the school and contribute to various projects throughout the year. By getting involved, parents and carers play a key role in enhancing the school community and helping with initiatives that benefit both students and staff. The P&C meets on Wednesdays during Week 3 and Week 8 of each term, providing an opportunity to collaborate on upcoming projects and share ideas. If you're interested in staying informed and getting involved, please email jjcahillpandc@gmail.com to sign up for regular updates and email communication from the P&C. Your support and participation are always welcome!