Curriculum and Learning
2026 TAS Major Works Exhibition
The College community is invited to celebrate the creativity, craftsmanship and technical skill of our students at the 2026 TAS Major Works Exhibition.
Held on Monday 14 September from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, the evening will feature the completed HSC Major Works of our Year 12 Timber and Design students. A selection of projects from Years 7–11 will also be displayed, highlighting the development of students’ practical skills and design thinking throughout their time at the College.
Each project represents many months of planning, experimentation, problem solving, and refinement. The exhibition provides students with the opportunity to proudly share the results of their hard work with their families, teachers and the wider College community.
Dr Vittoria Lavorato will officially open the exhibition at 7:00 PM in the Crichton Building. Refreshments will be available during the evening, generously provided by the P&F Committee.
The exhibition also recognises the contribution of our TAS staff, whose knowledge, guidance and encouragement support students from their earliest practical experiences through to the completion of their HSC Major Works.
We look forward to sharing this special evening with our students, families, and guests.
Kieran Gibson
Head of TAS
Celebrating Science Week
Science Week was a fantastic success, with students enthusiastically engaging in a range of exciting activities designed to spark curiosity and showcase the wonders of science. A highlight of the week was our Pop-Up Science Lab, where students had the opportunity to explore hands-on science demonstrations and experiments. The pop-up lab encouraged students to ask questions, investigate scientific concepts, and experience science beyond the classroom. Another popular activity was the Periodic Table cupcake challenge. Students were invited to test their chemistry knowledge by identifying element symbols from the periodic table. Those who correctly matched the symbol to the element were rewarded with a cupcake. The spectacular Elephant Toothpaste demonstration drew large crowds throughout the week. Students were amazed by the rapid production of foam and learned about the chemical reactions responsible for this impressive display. The demonstration provided a memorable example of how chemistry can be both educational and entertaining.
Throughout the week, students also took part in the Daily Science Question Challenge held in the library. Each day, a new science question was displayed, encouraging students to test their knowledge and think critically about scientific concepts. Many students returned each day to participate, creating a wonderful sense of excitement and curiosity across the school.
As part of our Science Week celebrations, students are invited to participate in the Seed Germination Photo Challenge. The challenge provides a wonderful opportunity for students to connect science with the natural world while developing their photography skills and appreciation for plant biology. Entries are due on 4 September 2026, with more details available in the library.
Science Week provided a valuable opportunity for students to engage with science in a fun, interactive, and hands-on way. Thank you to all staff and students who contributed to making the week such a successful celebration of science. We look forward to continuing to foster scientific curiosity and enthusiasm through future science events and activities.
Surekha Chander
Head of Science
Reminder: McGlade Academic Scholarship – Year 11, 2027
As previously mentioned in the 5 August issue of the Especean, the College is inviting applications for the 2027 McGlade Academic Scholarships, which is available to students entering Year 11 in 2027. Both current students and external applicants are warmly encouraged to apply.
This scholarship honours Brother James Athanasius McGlade, a devoted Christian Brother who served in Catholic education for more than 70 years, including many years at St Patrick’s College. His legacy continues through this scholarship, which celebrates academic excellence and a commitment to the formation of the whole person.
The McGlade Scholarship encourages a love of learning and invites applicants to participate fully in College life through academic endeavour, co-curricular involvement and service to others. It reflects our mission to form young men with strong minds and gentle hearts, supporting them to become confident, capable and compassionate graduates who are ready to make a positive difference.
One full scholarship, equivalent to the full tuition fee, is available. Two half scholarships, each equivalent to half the tuition fee, are also available.
Selection criteria, in order of importance, are as follows:
The highest overall combined performance in the Scholarship Examination, covering Abstract Reasoning and Problem Solving, Mathematics Achievement and Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Written Expression, conducted by Academic Assessment Services.
In addition to the overall combined performance above, the successful students must also demonstrate:
Excellent academic achievement in school-based assessment.
A strong record of respectful and positive behaviour towards students and College staff.
Participation in, and contribution to, the Shining our Light (SOL) Service program, or an equivalent program at their current school.
Participation in, and contribution to, a range of co-curricular activities.
Families considering an application are encouraged to review the criteria carefully and speak with their son about his commitment to learning, service and active participation in College life that the scholarship represents.
Examination date: Saturday 19 September 2026
Applications close: Friday 11 September 2026
To apply on behalf of your son, please submit an application through the Academic Assessment Services (AAS) portal using the LINK.
James Martin
Director of Curriculum
Reminder: Visual Arts Major Works Exhibition - Alchemy
Please join us on Wednesday 2 September from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM as we celebrate the incredible works of the 2026 HSC Visual Arts class, alongside selected student works from Years 7–11, in this year’s exhibition, Alchemy.
Alchemy is the first exhibition of its kind at SPC, showcasing the diverse talents of our Visual Arts students as they transform everyday materials into extraordinary works of art.
The exhibition will be officially opened at 7:00 PM by Dr Vittoria Lavorato in the Mary MacKillop Art Centre, with refreshments generously provided by the P&F.
A special thank you to the Visual Arts teaching staff who have worked alongside their classes throughout the year, as well as the College Leadership Team, support staff, P&F, and student volunteers whose efforts have made this evening possible.
Finally, congratulations to the HSC Visual Arts Class of 2026 for producing a truly outstanding collection of innovative, ambitious, and show-stopping works. We look forward to sharing and celebrating your achievements with the broader College community.
Anthony Porra
Head of Visual Arts