Curriculum and Learning

Year 11 Assessment Block and Old Boys Careers Information Evening

Year 11 commenced their Assessment Block this week on Tuesday 28 April, and will conclude on Thursday 7 May. As it is a College expectation that all Year 11 boys attend the Old Boys Careers Information Evening on Tuesday 5 May, no assessment tasks will be scheduled for the following morning. Instead, assessments will recommence in the afternoon of Wednesday 6 May.

As mentioned in last week’s Especean, please refer to the Year 11 Assessment Block timetable, which has been published for students and parents/carers, if you are unsure when an assessment task will occur.

Year 12 VET Subjects and English Studies

This week, students enrolled in Year 12 VET Construction, VET Entertainment, VET Hospitality, and English Studies will receive information about how they can elect to withdraw their eligibility for any of these subjects to count towards the calculation of their Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). This is an option some students may wish to consider.

Students and parents/carers are asked to carefully read the information provided. If any questions arise, please speak with either your class teacher or the Director of Curriculum.

Students who decide to pursue this option must complete the ‘Withdrawing from an Optional HSC Examination’ form, which will be attached to the information distributed this week. They will also be required to speak with our Careers Advisor, the relevant Head of Department and the Director of Curriculum.

Reminder: Year 10 Academic Attainment Testing – Tuesday 12 May 2025

As mentioned in last week’s Especean, this is a reminder that the Academic Attainment Testing for Year 10 is scheduled for Tuesday 12 May. If a boy is absent, they will sit the tests on Monday 18 May.

It is important to note that the data from these attainment tests will contribute significantly to subject selection recommendations for Year 11 in 2027.

James Martin

Director of Curriculum

2026 Co.As.It. Language Assistants

In 2026, St Patrick’s College is once again fortunate to receive the support of Co.As.It. through the Language Assistant program. This year, we welcome three Language Assistants: Gemma, Pamela, and Otman.

As native speakers of Italian, they play an important role in enhancing our students’ language skills and deepening their understanding of Italian culture. The assistants work with our classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, providing regular opportunities for students to practice their speaking and listening in an authentic and engaging way.

Their contribution is especially valuable for our Stage 6 students, particularly Year 12, as they prepare for their HSC Oral Examinations. Our students are offered one on one speaking practice once a week. Through conversation practice, feedback and targeted support, the assistants help build students’ confidence and fluency in spoken Italian.

Student feedback has again been overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the opportunity to interact with native speakers and improve their communication skills. We are very grateful for the continued support of Co.As.It. and for the significant contribution of our Language Assistants in enriching the Italian Program at the College.

Stephanie D'Arcangeli

Head of Languages