Partnerships and Pathways
Our final Lunch & Learn sessions for 2025 have been nothing short of inspiring, showcasing the diverse and dynamic pathways of five remarkable alumni. Class of 2014 graduate Bernadette Fam captivated students with her bold leap from an initial Law offer into the world of theatre, sharing how her work with leading Sydney and Melbourne companies explores identity, belonging and cultural connection, and reminding students to “chase skills, not titles.” In the health field, Rianna Nicotera (Class of 2022) and Hannah Norrie (Class of 2019) joined us from OnePointHealth. Rianna, a Dietitian Cadet, and Hannah a qualified Strength and Conditioning Coach, shared practical, timely advice about adapting to change, building networks and taking confident steps after Year 12. Class of 1994 alumnae Trudy Dunn brought a fascinating multi-chapter career story—from chef and pastry chef, to logistics, to soon-to-be librarian—showing the power of transferable skills and the courage to change direction when life shifts. And most recently, Class of 2021 graduate Kristen Palfreeman returned to share her flourishing journey in interior design, offering a behind-the-scenes look at creative problem-solving, industry experience and the importance of saying “yes” to opportunities. Together, these sessions highlighted the many pivots, passions and possibilities that shape meaningful careers, leaving our students motivated to explore their own pathways with confidence and curiosity.
Our senior students continue to thrive thanks to the College’s innovative HSC Peer Tutor Program. This unique partnership brings high-achieving alumni from the Classes of 2022 and 2023 back on campus to mentor current senior students across more than 20 HSC subjects. Each week, tutors provide personalised coaching, study strategies, exam preparation and subject-specific support, helping students build confidence, strengthen their learning and make real progress during key assessment periods. With HSC results due soon, the program has made a meaningful difference for the Class of 2025, while our newest Year 12s are already benefiting from the expertise and encouragement of their alumni mentors. Strengthening the Sisterhood connection through shared learning, leadership and support, this initiative reflects the community spirit of our College. Recently, some of our senior students and mentors sat down to share why this program matters so much: https://lnkd.in/gkJBWXDQ
The Program returns in 2026.
As the year draws to a close, we have been proud to celebrate the hundreds of students from Years 7–12 who have enthusiastically embraced the wide range of Pathways initiatives on offer at Caroline Chisholm College. From university showcases and Lunch & Learn sessions with alumni and industry partners, to coaching conversations, workshops, excursions and work-readiness programs, students have taken meaningful steps to explore their interests and prepare for life beyond school. Collectively, they have engaged in Pathways opportunities over 1,700 times this year, earning exclusive Bronze, Silver and Gold Pathways Accreditation credentials — valuable additions to their resumes and portfolios as they pursue future jobs, early entry programs and other opportunities. We are incredibly proud of the commitment and initiative shown by our students, with special congratulations to Ashwika M. in Year 8, who set a College record with 27 engagements, and Gianna G. in Year 10, close behind with 24. Their dedication reflects the proactive, future-focused mindset thriving across our school community.
For any pathways enquiries, or to book a coaching conversation, students can pop into the library or email us: amacnamara1@parra.catholic.edu.au
and koliver4@parra.catholic.edu.au
Mr Adam MacNamara
Partnerships and Pathways Coach
