From the Principal
- Reflection
- Year 12 – Preparing for the Trial HSC Examinations
- Before and After School Supervision Notice
- Uniform Update
- Year 8 Ski Trip update
- Cocurricular Program
- Enrolments for Years 5 & 7 2027
- Key Dates
Reflection
Faith, Family, and Strength:
Lessons from the Feast of St Mary, St Martha, and St Lazarus
On 29 July, the Church celebrated the lives of St Mary, St Martha, and St Lazarus, 3 siblings who were close friends of Jesus and whose home in Bethany was a place of welcome, faith, and transformation.
This feast day reminds us that faith isn’t just personal it is also shared. These 3 saints show us different ways to live out our beliefs, and their example speaks powerfully to young people today, especially young men navigating a world full of noise, pressure, and expectations.
Lazarus: Strength in Silence
Lazarus doesn’t speak in the Gospels, but his life tells a powerful story. Raised from the dead by Jesus, Lazarus becomes a living sign of hope. His example shows us that you don’t need to be loud to be strong. Sometimes, quiet resilience and integrity speak louder than words.
Lesson: Your life can be a witness to hope - even when you don’t say a word.
Martha: Leadership Through Service
Martha is the one who gets things done. She welcomes Jesus, takes care of others, and boldly declares her faith. In a world that often overlooks service, Martha reminds us that real leadership means stepping up and helping out.
Lesson: Strength is found in responsibility, action, and care for others.
Mary: Courage to Be Present
Mary chooses to sit with Jesus, listen, and love deeply. Her quiet presence and devotion show that being emotionally present and spiritually grounded is just as important as doing.
Lesson: It takes courage to slow down, listen, and love with your whole heart.
Why This Matters Today
In a time when young men are often told to be tough, competitive, or self-reliant, this feast day offers a different vision: one of faith, humility, and love. Lazarus, Martha, and Mary show us that strength comes in many forms and that being close to Jesus transforms everything.
Let’s take inspiration from Lazarus, Martha, and Mary and build lives that reflect hope, service, and presence - in our homes, our friendships, and our school community.
Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us
St Pius X - Pray for Us
Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!
Year 12 – Preparing for the Trial HSC Examinations
As our Year 12 students approach a pivotal moment in their final year, the Trial HSC Examinations, I want to commend them for their unwavering commitment and focus. I was particularly impressed by the strong attendance at the HSC workshops held during the July holidays. It was inspiring to see so many students take initiative and invest in their learning during their break.
Since returning to school, their dedication has continued, and it is clear they are working exceptionally hard to prepare for these final school-based assessments. My advice to all students is simple: be prepared, stay committed, and remain faithful to your goals.
In the spirit of Edmund Rice, may each student face these examinations with courage and confidence. We are proud of your efforts and stand with you as you strive for success.
"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out."
Robert Collie
A Prayer for Our Year 12 Students
Loving God,
We ask for your guidance and strength for our Year 12 students as they prepare for their Trial HSC Examinations. Grant them clarity of mind,
calmness of heart, and the courage to do their best.
May their hard work be rewarded, and may they remain faithful to their goals.
In the spirit of Edmund Rice, help them to walk with confidence, knowing they are supported by their community and surrounded by your love.
Amen.
Before and After School Supervision Notice
The safety and wellbeing of our students is our highest priority. We would like to remind all families of the school’s supervision arrangements to ensure that all students are safe and appropriately supervised while on school grounds.
Supervision Times:
Before School: Supervision is provided from 8:15 am each morning.
After School: Supervision concludes at 4.00pm (Monday to Thursday).
It is important to note that the after-school supervision will conclude at 4:00 pm, at which time, all students will be requested to leave the College grounds. This arrangement is for normal school days Monday to Thursday. There will be no supervision of the College grounds (especially the Basketball Court) on a Friday. The College will communicate when there will be no additional after school supervision because of a College function.
Students may (and are encouraged to) attend the Academic Annexe if they are waiting to be picked up.
Thank you for your support and helping us maintain a safe and supportive environment for all students.
If you have any questions or require further information about before and after school care options, please contact Ms Watson.
Uniform Update
As we announced in 2024, Ranier Uniforms are the official supplier of our College uniforms and sports attire. This partnership provided us with a comprehensive refresh aimed at ensuring consistency across all year levels, while also introducing new items to enhance the overall look and feel of our College uniforms.
What’s Different?
College Uniform: While the core design remains largely unchanged, improvements have been made to the quality of materials used. Additionally, all garments now feature standardised College colours for a more cohesive appearance.
Re-introduction of a standardised College polo shirt: The College will reintroduce a standardised College polo that students will be expected to wear when required.
College PE/Sports Uniform: This area sees the most significant updates. These changes are designed to promote a stronger sense of identity and unity during sports and physical education activities.
In the coming weeks, I will be sharing detailed information regarding upcoming changes to our school uniform. This correspondence will include a clear timeline, an outline of what the changes involve, and a helpful FAQ to support families and students through the transition.
Importantly, the update will clarify which uniform items will be acceptable and specify when certain pieces, particularly the PE/Sport uniform, can be worn. We appreciate your attention to these updates and your continued support as we work together to maintain a sense of pride and consistency in our College presentation.
Year 8 Ski Trip Update
Our Year 8 students are currently enjoying a fantastic ski trip, with staff providing regular updates from the slopes. The weather has been kind, offering excellent skiing conditions and a picturesque winter landscape. With two days of snowfall, many students are experiencing snow for the very first time. An unforgettable encounter with nature.
The photos shared on our Facebook page truly capture the magic of the trip. We are looking forward to hearing all about the students’ adventures when they return. Please continue to keep their safe keeping in your prayers.
Cocurricular Program
Celebrating Our Cocurricular Spirit
Congratulations to all teams for their outstanding commitment to our cocurricular program last week. It was heartening to see so many students return to representing the College with joy and enthusiasm regardless of the final score. The smiles and team spirit on display were a wonderful reminder that while competition is part of the game, enjoying the experience is just as important.
As we head into another week, please stay connected to our communications, especially with the forecast of poor weather. Any updates or cancellations will be shared promptly to keep families informed.
Go the Blue and Gold!
Enrolments for Years 5 & 7 2027
Enrolment applications for St Pius X College remain available. Please see the College website for details.
Key Dates
Term 3
Week 3
Mon 4/8 HSC Trial Examinations - Mon 18/8 / Year 9 History & Geography Excursions / College Advisory Council Meeting
Tues 5/8 Chapel Mass (Pius) / Year 9 2026 Subject Selection Evening (5:30 pm)
Thur 7/8 Snowy Hike Information Night (6:00 pm)
Fri 8/8 IPSHA Debating / Elective Music Showcase (5:00 pm) / Year 10 Formation Day
Sat 9/8 ISA Football & Tennis R10 / Rugby vs Cranbrook / IPSHA R10
Sun 10/8 Youth Mass (5:30 pm)
Fide et Labore
By Faith and hard work
Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever
Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal