Reflection
2026 College Student Leadership Investiture, Year 11 Preliminary HSC Awards and presenting our Year 11 students with their senior badges
HSC Examinations continue into Week 3
Movember campaign launched for 2025
Transition Day Year 5 & 6 2026 as well as Year 7 2026
Save the Date: Parents & Friends AGM
Term 4 Cocurricular Program - Sporting Spirit Shines at Oxford Falls
Key Dates

Reflection

All Saints' Day – Saturday 1 November

All Saints' Day, the day on which Catholics celebrate all the saints, known and unknown, is a surprisingly old feast. It arose out of the Christian tradition of celebrating the martyrdom of saints on the anniversary of their martyrdom. When martyrdoms increased during the persecutions of the late Roman Empire, local dioceses instituted a common feast day in order to ensure that all martyrs, known and unknown, were properly honoured.

Question: Is All Saints' Day a Holy Day of Obligation?

Answer: All Saints' Day is a Holy Day of Obligation. However, when it falls on a Saturday or a Monday, the obligation to attend Mass is abrogated (temporarily waive).

All Souls' Day – Sunday 2 November

All Souls’ Day is a deeply meaningful occasion in the Catholic calendar, dedicated to remembering and praying for all the faithful departed. It invites us to reflect on the mystery of death and resurrection, and to entrust those who have died to God’s loving mercy.

For our College community, this day offers a special opportunity to honour those we have lost, especially in 2025, and to unite in prayer for family members, friends, and loved ones. Through our prayers, we express love, hope, and solidarity, trusting in the promise of eternal life. All Souls’ Day reminds us that grief is a natural part of love, and that through Christ, death is not the end, but a passage to new life.

Question: Is All Souls' Day a Holy Day of Obligation?

Answer: All Souls’ Day is not a Holy Day of Obligation in the Catholic Church.

While it is a deeply meaningful day dedicated to praying for the faithful departed, Catholics are not required to attend Mass on All Souls’ Day. However, many choose to do so as an act of devotion and remembrance, and it is often marked by special Masses, prayers, and visits to cemeteries. This year All Souls' Day falls on a Sunday.

Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us

St Pius X - Pray for Us

Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!

2026 College Student Leadership Investiture, Year 11 Preliminary HSC Awards and presenting our Year 11 students with their senior badges

Today, the College community came together to mark a significant occasion: the 2026 Student Leadership Investiture, the presentation of the Year 11 Preliminary HSC Academic Awards, and the symbolic welcome of our Year 12 students as they received their senior tie and badge. This event represents a meaningful milestone, formally acknowledging the beginning of their Year 12 journey and celebrating the leadership, achievement, and commitment that define this important stage of College life.

Below is an excerpt from my address, reflecting on the significance of these moments in our shared story.

'Today is more than a ceremony. It is a moment that affirms who we are and what we stand for as a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition. By honouring academic excellence, we affirm the dignity of disciplined study, curiosity, and perseverance. By investing our senior leaders, we entrust responsibility and service to those called to lead. Together, these acts remind us that education at St Pius X College is not only about knowledge, but also about character, faith, and community.

As I mentioned at the Year 12 Graduation last term: a defining quality of St Pius X College is the willingness of our students to remain true to the College motto, 'Fide et Labore' - By Faith and Hard Work - where young men remain committed to their faith and work hard, allowing the Lord’s light to shine brightly in everything that they do. I am confident that this group of gentlemen will strive to let the Lord’s light shine through them as they lead our College throughout 2025 and 2026.

Academic Excellence is something we value at St Pius X College. Therefore, it is important that we recognise another group of outstanding young men, the recipients of our Preliminary HSC Academic Awards. These awards are not simply about grades; they represent countless hours of effort, resilience in the face of challenge, and a deep commitment to learning.

The Preliminary HSC year is a pivotal stage in the academic journey of our students. It demands discipline, adaptability, and perseverance as they transition into the rigours of senior study. To excel in this environment is no small achievement. Today’s award recipients have demonstrated not only intellectual ability but also the qualities that underpin true scholarship - curiosity, determination, and a willingness to strive for excellence even when the path is demanding.

Their success is a testament to their personal dedication, the guidance of their teachers, and the unwavering support of their families. These achievements remind all of us that academic excellence is not an end in itself, but a foundation for future growth and service. It is through such commitment that our students prepare to make meaningful contributions to society, grounded in the values of faith and hard work that define St Pius X College.

To all our award recipients: we commend you for your efforts and encourage you to continue to pursue knowledge with humility and passion. May your example inspire others to embrace the challenges of learning and to see education as a lifelong journey of discovery and transformation.

As we commission Year 12 and their leaders today, I remind all students of the four significant symbols that guide us in our leadership and provide us with a deep connection to the history and traditions of the College, our affiliation to Edmund Rice Education, and, of course, our faith.

The EREA Charter, through its four Touchstones, guides St Pius X College in all we do as a faith-filled learning community and connects us to the common good of all Edmund Rice schools around the world.

The College Yearbook is an important record of the College’s life, capturing achievements, traditions, and memories while giving everyone the opportunity to add their own stories to our shared history.

The College Banner represents our evolving history and our shared identity. Our place within the wider Edmund Rice community and the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice that challenges us to stand in solidarity with those at the margins.

The College Candle signifies the light we bear together, our commitment to a life of growth and development, of learning and challenge, reminding us that St Pius X College is a place where students are nurtured to illuminate the world with Jesus by our side.

These symbols will now, and always, represent who we are and what we stand for. And we must never forget this.

These symbols now become the responsibility of all Year 12 students especially the elected Prefects. You take up the mantle as custodians of all that St Pius represents, embodying what it honestly means to be faithful followers of Jesus Christ and Blessed Edmund Rice. In accepting these symbols, you promise to hold yourselves to a higher standard, one that honours our past, serves our present, and inspires our future.

In a very short time, the 2026 Prefect group has shown remarkable potential, embracing their various portfolios with enthusiasm and determination. Your vision for each area, which you will soon share with the community, highlights a genuine commitment to doing your very best for the College. I wish each Prefect great success in meeting the responsibilities and expectations of your role, and I pray that you become strong advocates for student voice: listening, representing, and leading all students with integrity.

Congratulations, Sean, on your appointment as College Captain! This is a tremendous achievement and a testament to your dedication, integrity, and the respect you have earned within our College community. Your role as Captain is both an honour and a responsibility, offering you the opportunity to lead by example and inspire others. We are confident that your commitment, empathy, and vision will guide you to make a positive impact, leaving a legacy that reflects the values of our College. Sean, your journey as a leader has only just begun, and we look forward to all you will accomplish throughout the next twelve months.

You are fortunate to be supported by two outstanding Vice-Captains, Luke and Brayzen. Luke and Brayzen, like Sean, you have been entrusted with a great honour and responsibility. It is essential that you uphold the reputation of these roles, standing alongside your Captain, encouraging the Prefects, and setting the tone for service, humility, and excellence in all you do.

On behalf of the College, I extend my congratulations to Sean, Luke, Brayzen, and all the 2026 College Prefects, and I look forward to being part of your leadership journey.

To Year 12, our most senior students, I also pray that during the next twelve months you are able to let your light shine, becoming the gentlemen our society so deeply desires: generous in spirit, courageous in conscience, and steadfast in faith. You have the responsibility to bring hope to our world, to our community, and to your own circles of influence making St Pius X College an even better place through your presence and leadership.

Year 12, I issue this challenge to each of you: demonstrate your leadership. Leadership isn’t about titles or positions; it’s about influence and responsibility. Lead with integrity and authenticity and let your actions inspire others. Remember, each decision you make reflects not only on you, but also on the entire College community. Each and every one of you is encouraged to take up this mantle and continue to make this a great College where all are welcomed, where all are invited, and where all are encouraged to be the best version of themselves.

So, Year 12:

Embrace your role and responsibilities with integrity; do the right thing, especially when it is hard.
Serve others with humility; place the needs of the community before your own.
Persevere through challenges and see setbacks as opportunities to grow.
Be a positive role model your example will shape our culture.
Work together and support each other no leader stands alone.
Focus on your legacy; consider how you wish to be remembered, and live that way now.
Stay grounded and balanced; maintain perspective, prayer, rest, and gratitude.
Believe in your potential trust the gifts God has placed within you.

Therefore, Year 12, as your 2025 and 2026 journey unfolds, and it will pass quickly, take time to celebrate your achievements, both big and small. Every success, no matter how minor it may seem, is a step toward a bigger goal. Appreciate the journey and the memories you are creating along the way. Share successes with your peers, thank your teachers, and honour your families who walk alongside you.'

HSC Examinations continue into Week 3

It’s hard to believe we have already reached the third week of the HSC Examinations, with many of our Year 12 students now approaching the final stages of their assessments. As a College community, our thoughts and prayers remain with them, and we continue to encourage each student to stay focused, motivated, and committed to their studies during this important time. Through faith and hard work we can achieve our goals.

Movember campaign launched for 2025

The 2025 Movember campaign was officially launched at our College assembly (indoor due to rain) on Wednesday 29 October. Movember is a global initiative held each November to raise awareness and funds for critical men’s health issues, including mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. Throughout the month, students (in Year 11) and staff are encouraged to grow a moustache or take part in fundraising and awareness activities as a visible and meaningful way to spark conversations and promote wellbeing across our community. Movember 2025 is not just about growing facial hair, it’s about growing understanding, support, and hope.

Transition Day Year 5 & 6 2026 as well as Year 7 2026

The coming week marks a special moment in the life of St Pius X College as we welcome our incoming students for 2026. Today, we hosted our Year 5 and Year 6 Transition Day, followed by the Year 7 Transition Day on Tuesday 4 November. These days are designed to help our newest students begin their journey with confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging.

Transition Days play a vital role in helping students feel welcomed into our beautiful College community. They offer a chance to explore the campus, meet teachers and peers, and experience the spirit and culture that make St Pius X such a special place to learn and grow. For many, these days ease the nerves of starting at a new school and replace them with excitement and anticipation.

At St Pius X College, we believe that every student should feel known, valued, and supported from the very beginning. These transition experiences are the first step in building relationships, fostering resilience, and setting the tone for a successful and enriching school journey.

We look forward to walking alongside our new students and their families as they become part of the St Pius X story.

Welcome to our community.

Save the Date: Parents & Friends AGM

A reminder of the P&F Association Annual General Meeting on Monday 10 November 2025. A link will be sent out closer to the date.

Term 4 Cocurricular Program - Sporting Spirit Shines at Oxford Falls

Last week, Oxford Falls was alive with energy and enthusiasm as our students took to the courts and fields for a series of exciting matches. The basketball courts were buzzing with intensity as our players showcased their skills, teamwork, and athleticism in fast-paced and competitive games. Meanwhile, on the cricket pitch, our cricketers demonstrated great determination, focus, and technical ability, embracing every moment with passion and pride.

While the results across both codes were mixed, the true highlight was the unwavering spirit and sportsmanship shown by all players. Regardless of the scoreboard, our teams fought to the final whistle and the last ball, embodying the values of resilience, commitment, and camaraderie that define sport at St Pius X College.

These games were a reminder that success is not only measured in wins, but in the character displayed on and off the field. Congratulations to all players and coaches for representing the College with pride and heart.

Key Dates

Week 4

Mon 3/11 Year 10 Exams - 9/11 / College Advisory Council Meeting

Tues 4/11 Chapel Mass (Mercy)/ Year 7 2026 Orientation Day / PAPA Meeting (online) / Parent information night for 2026 new Year 5 and 6 students

Thur 6/11 Year 7, 8, 9 Exams (til 11/11 )

Fri 7/11 HSC concludes

Sat 8/11 ISA R3 / IPSHA R10 / NSTA / MWJCA

Fide et Labore

By Faith and hard work

Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever

Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal

Teaching and Learning

Year 10 Exams