Principal

National Reconciliation Week Assembly

At last Friday’s assembly, our College community came together to mark **National Reconciliation Week, a time for all Australians to reflect on our shared histories, relationships and responsibilities. It was a meaningful opportunity for the boys to pause and consider how reconciliation is lived not only in words, but in the everyday choices we make.

Drawing on this year’s theme, “All In,” the assembly encouraged students to consider what it means to commit wholeheartedly to respect, understanding, and justice. In the spirit of our Catholic and Edmund Rice tradition, the boys were reminded that reconciliation is deeply connected to the Gospel call to walk humbly with others, to listen with open hearts, and to stand alongside those whose voices and stories must be heard.

Particular focus was given to the importance of listening deeply, learning with humility, and acting with compassion. Students were invited to reflect on the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, the truth of our nation’s history, and the important role each person can play in building respectful relationships.

The assembly also acknowledged the significance of the week itself, which spans two important dates in Australia’s history: the 1967 Referendum on 27 May and Mabo Day on 3 June. These moments remind us that reconciliation is an ongoing journey—one grounded in truth, dignity and hope.

As a College, we are proud to provide opportunities for our boys to grow in empathy, understanding and faith-filled leadership. Last Friday’s assembly was a valuable reminder that reconciliation is not something we simply observe for a week, but something we are all called to live each day.

School of Rock Strikes a Chord at the Bryan Brown Theatre

Last week, our school community was treated to an outstanding production of School of Rock at the Bryan Brown Theatre—a vibrant, high-energy musical that showcased the extraordinary talent, commitment and spirit of our students.

Based on the popular film, School of Rock tells the story of Dewey Finn, an aspiring rock musician who poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious school. Initially out of his depth, Dewey soon discovers the musical talent of his students and inspires them to form a secret rock band. Through their journey toward the Battle of the Bands, the students grow in confidence, teamwork and self-belief, while challenging expectations and discovering their own voices.

From the opening number to the final curtain call, the cast captivated audiences with their confidence and charisma. Our student musicians brought the score to life with remarkable precision and flair, demonstrating not only technical skill but a genuine love of performance.

A particularly pleasing aspect of this year’s production was the evident growth in our students. Many boys embraced unfamiliar roles—whether on stage, in the band, or behind the scenes—and demonstrated remarkable resilience, discipline and pride in their work. For some, it was their first time performing publicly; for others, an opportunity to refine and extend their talents. In every instance, students developed greater confidence, strengthened their ability to collaborate, and learned to take creative risks in a supportive environment. These are enduring qualities that will serve them well beyond their years at the College.

We are also especially proud of the strong partnership evident in this production through the involvement of girls from MLC, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield Girls High School and The McDonald College. Their participation added depth and vibrancy to the performance, and the collaboration between our students was a wonderful example of mutual respect, shared purpose and the unifying power of the performing arts.

We are really proud of our musicians on the night who played the entire score live! We do not use a soundtrack. The hard-energy rock vibe was sustained by those boys throughout the show.

Behind the scenes, the production was a testament to collaboration. Students in technical, stage, and creative roles worked tirelessly to ensure seamless transitions, dynamic lighting, and professional-quality sound. Staff and volunteers also gave generously of their time and expertise, guiding the production with care and dedication.

A special thank you must be extended to all staff who brought this production to life, particularly our Director, Ms Duff, whose vision and leadership shaped the performance, and our Musical Director, Dr Taylor, whose expertise and passion ensured a polished and powerful musical experience.

Beyond the entertainment, School of Rock highlighted the power of the arts in education—building teamwork, resilience and self-expression. It was a celebration of what can be achieved when students are given the opportunity to pursue their passions and work together toward a shared goal.

We congratulate all involved on an exceptional production that will long be remembered as a highlight of our school year.

Cast members:

Jamie P (Dewey), Sebastian A (Dewey), George A (Ned), Erin M (Patty), Alex S (Rosalie), Declan G (Billy), Lucas B (Lawrence), Marcus D (Zack), Henry B (Freddie), Noah H (Karl), Oscar C (Tommy), Isla P (Summer), Esra T (Marcy), Amara S (Back up singer), Brando F (Mason), Leo A (Matt), Knox G (Scott), Owen G (James), Lucien S (Mr Williams), Marlo B (Theo), Aditi K (Back up singer), James B (PE teacher), Elias C (Mr Moonyham), Arabella K (Mrs Hathaway), Zoe F (Ms Sanderson), Sadie L (Ms Bingham/Student), Lara M (Ms Sheinkopf), Isla Y (Back up singer), Serene G (Mrs Green), Louis M (Mr Nobel), Melanie L (Ms Sanders), Olivia E (Mrs Travers), Luca A (Mr James/Security), Alice B (Ms Gordon/Police Officer), Sebastian S (PE teacher/Security), Alexis G (Gabrielle)

Band members:

Lachlan H, Lucas N, Isaac M, Aaron N, Ayaan G, Lucien G

Crew members:

Oliver F, Xavier A, Nathaniel H, Mark I, Sebastian D, Amelia W

VET Entertainment Students:

George A, Noah H, Jamie P, James K, Noah C, Pablo D, Luke D, Oliver F, Nicholas L

Production Team:

Ms Duff (Director/Set and Prop Construction/Costume, Makeup, Props), Dr Taylor (Musical Director), Ms De Francesco (Assistant Director/Costume, Makeup, Props), Mrs Ovijach (Assistant Director/Set and Prop Construction/Costume, Makeup, Props), Alex H (Stage Management), Mr Shaw (Stage Management/Staff Musician), Mr Fela (Set and Prop Construction), Ms Zhong (Set and Prop Construction/Costume, Makeup, Props/Staff Musician), Mr McCarthy (Staff Musician)

Staff News

• Congratulations to Mr Peter Maxwell who has been appointed to the role of Acting Head of PDHPE from 1 June to the end of the year, replacing Mr Damian Chase. 

• I am delighted to announce that Ms Brunella Pagano will be joining the staff of our College in Term 3, replacing Mr Allan. Ms Pagano is currently the Head of English at Tangara School for Girls and has previous experience in the English faculties of William Clarke College and The King’s School. She is a Sydney University graduate who read English Language and Literature. We know she will make a valuable contribution to our English faculty.

• One of our Learning Support Officers, Mr Teshan Ravindran, has resigned from the College to take up another opportunity in Queensland. We wish him well, however, we will need to take time now to find a suitable person to take on this student-support role.

• Ms Romina Fisicaro is currently on Long Service Leave and will be returning from the start of Term 3. However, she will be stepping back from her Year Coordinator role for the remainder of 2026 to spend additional time with her daughter before she begins school next year, while continuing in her teaching role at the College. Mr Justin Knight and Ms Danielle Laoulach will continue in working with Year 9 as Year Coordinator and Assistant.

• Ms Amanda Forgione will be temporarily joining the Diverse Learning Team in Semester 2 (Terms 3 and 4) as a Learning Support Teacher. 

• Mr Reed Earl, member of the Mathematics Department, has signalled his intention to resign from the staff of the College. His last day will be the last day of Term 2. As you can well imagine, recruiting for a new Mathematics teacher will be our top priority.

Director of Co-Curricular

We are delighted to welcome Mr Lachlan Fear as our new Director of Co-Curricular,

commencing 20 July 2026. Mr Fear brings extensive leadership experience from leading independent schools and high-performance sporting environments, most recently serving as Director of Co-Curricular at The Armidale School. He is widely recognised for building strong cultures of participation, belonging and excellence.

Prior to this, Lachlan spent significant time at Newington College as Director of Rugby, overseeing one of the country’s most substantial school rugby programs, while also holding senior roles at Sydney Grammar School and within elite rugby organisations. These experiences have shaped his understanding of high-performing school communities, program design, talent development and the importance of creating aspirational yet inclusive opportunities for young people.

Lachlan brings a unique professional background, having also worked as a physiotherapist before moving into education and leadership. This breadth of experience informs his holistic and student-centred approach, underpinned by a strong focus on wellbeing, resilience and growth. With a background spanning sport, creative arts, service, outdoor education, cadets and student development, Mr Fear is deeply committed to holistic education, wellbeing and the formation of young men of character. He is a PDHPE teacher and we look forward to the energy, expertise and vision he will bring to our community. 

In Memoriam

We keep in our prayers: 

• Ms Amelia Popham (Mathematics Faculty) for the loss of her beloved grandmother in the UK 

• Lucien G (Year 11) on the recent loss of his grandmother, Jan Bonner. 

• Emmanuel B (Year 5), Sebastian M (Year 6), Anthony M (Year 9) and Marcus B (Year 12) on the loss of their grandmother Mrs Hanne Bitar.  

• Last week, we sadly lost one of our fathers, Barrie Bushell. He is survived by his wife Christine, and sons Luke B (Year 12) and Isaac Bushell (Class of 2025). May he rest in perpetual peace.

  Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,  and let perpetual light shine upon them.  May the souls of all the faithful departed,  through the mercy of God,  may they rest in peace.  Amen.

Dr Vittoria Lavorato

Principal

SPC boys can do anything! 

**except divide by zero