Co-Curricular
The Impact of Cultural Pursuits in Education
I recently read a short reflection by Dr Craig Wattam, Principal of St John Paul II College, on the value of the arts in education and found it both timely and insightful.
He reminded us that “performance, design, music, [and] storytelling… are formative experiences” that go beyond co-curricular participation to develop “courage, collaboration and self-discovery.” Dr Wattam also highlighted the discipline, resilience and cognitive benefits of the arts, noting that “learning music makes more neural connections than almost any other human activity.”
Of particular interest, he affirmed that creativity teaches students to “take risks, embrace vulnerability and connect with others in ways that are emotional and meaningful.”
I felt this was a compelling reminder in the lead up to Co-Curricular sport choices, that when we make space for the arts, we don’t just enrich education – we “enrich the human experience.”
Once again, this week, our Head of Co-Curricular Music, Dr David Taylor, led our musicians in a Sunday performance – this time with The Drumline representing the College at the Australian Drumline Competition (see his article below).
Sport across Sydney took a considerable hit over the weekend, with heavy rain and widespread ground closures causing many cancellations from the Southern Highlands to the Central Coast. Despite this, parts of our Football Program continued, with SPC 2 hosting fixtures. The First XI once again led the way with a dominant 8–0 win over Central Coast Grammar School (CCGS).
It was a special day for the team as they welcomed back Alessandro Piccin, returning from an undefeated campaign with the U18 NSW Schools team, who were crowned National Champions at the SSA U18 Football Championships in Queensland. Alessandro capped off a stellar tournament with selection to the Australian Schools Football team, which will tour the UK in January 2026.
Congratulations, Alessandro – St Patrick’s is very proud of you.
Please join us this Saturday as we celebrate Back to Breen Day, featuring a great schedule of home fixtures and a celebration of our Year 12 students in their final winter sport home game before the semi-finals on 15 August.
The day sees the First XI Football team hosting Oakhill College on SPC 2 at 10:15 AM and culminates in the NSWRU TV–livestreamed First XV Rugby fixture between St Patrick’s College and Knox Grammar at 3:15 PM.
We look forward to seeing our community there in support.
Adam Watson
Director of Co-Curricular
Australian Drumline Competition
On Sunday 3 August 2025, the Drumline Competition Team proudly represented the College at the Australian Drumline Competition, held at PLC Sydney.
The competition was incredibly strong, with some of the most accomplished teams from across Australia coming together to compete. Although we did not come home with an award this time, our students played with heart, discipline, and spirit. They earned the respect and recognition of their peers and other schools, something I witnessed firsthand on the day.
The team performed with confidence and showed true commitment to each other and the College. It was clear how much work had gone into preparing for the event. Every piece was performed from memory, and the students played as one united group. Their teamwork, energy and determination were genuinely inspiring.
We will take the adjudicator’s feedback on board and use it as valuable input as we continue to grow and improve.
Congratulations to all students involved. You did us proud. Keep up the hard work and always remember that around 90% of musical progress comes through consistent repetition and practice!
Dr David Taylor
Head of Co-Curricular Music