As a teacher, when I reflect on the classes that I teach, I frequently think about how much the students seem to mature during the 38 weeks that I have them in my classroom.  I welcome them into the classroom on Day 1, freshly arrived from the previous year and when they leave us in December, I am so proud to note how grown-up, confident and assured they are as a group of young people. Hopefully they have also, all learnt a thing or two along the way!

These developments in our students, of course, are due to a number of factors, not least of which is the encouragement, guidance, love and support that our students get from their parents in terms of becoming more independent, resilient and responsible young men.  

So, I would urge you all to sit down with your boys and reflect on the recent interviews. What was the consistent message? What were the positives? What is something that needs to be an immediate short-term goal? Long term goal? I encourage you to celebrate every small success on the path to achieving the goal. As we race towards the end of the term in a few weeks, it is often a time to look at what has been accomplished so far in the first half of the year and think about what you would like to achieve over the next half.  Whatever your son decides as his ‘goal’, I would encourage you to help him achieve this. Also, if you let your son’s teachers know, then this can be recognised and celebrated at school as well.

Celebrating Student Success 

One thing that we love to do in both the Junior and Senior Schools is to celebrate the successes both inside and outside the school. At morning ‘line up’ of a Monday morning, in Year Meetings or at assemblies, it is always special to be able to celebrate these successes in one way or another.

This week, I would like to celebrate two boys. 

• Charlie Fuller – Year 11

That the West Tigers have released some images of Charlie Fuller in Year 11.

Charlie was selected and attended this years NRL Indigenous Youth Leadership summit, representing the West Tigers Region. He has had the opportunity  to meet and participate in a session with TV presenter Stan Grant (Journalist) and proud Wiradjuri man.

Charlie was also in attendance for the launch of the NRL’s Indigenous round, with Aunty Linda Burney MP as well as meeting with Elders from the La Perouse community. He was lucky enough to be a part of a tour of the Sydney harbour and an opportunity to display his creative and artistic skills and further explore their cultural connections.

• Jack Jones – Year 7

Last week, Jack Jones from Year 7 had some fantastic news that we want to celebrate with him. Jack has had some amazing achievements this year in athletics, culminating in winning Sportsperson of the Year last Friday. 

If your son or daughter has achieved something that we can help them celebrate and praise, please let us know. Simply contact me at the College as I would love to share this celebration with them jweekes@stgregs.nsw.edu.au  

As the St Gregory’s College motto states ‘You will reap what you sow’.  

Mr Joel Weekes  

Assistant Principal/Head of Senior School  

College Mass 

Tuesday June 6, 9am, Br Luke Hall

All parents, carers and friends are most welcome to attend this Mass which will be celebrated by Bishop Brian, the Bishop of Wollongong. After Mass, seven students from the Junior School and five students from each Year group in the Senior School will be recognised for their contribution to our community. They will receive the Champagnat Award for demonstrating the characteristics of a strong mind and gentle heart. 

The Champagnat Day Carnival

Thursday June 8, 9am (Senior School: 8.45am until 11.00am. Junior School:12pm until 2.15pm.)

Costs:For all families, K - 12, the contribution is $15 for the first child and $10 for the second child. This includes access to all rides and activities. Senior School students can purchase their food and drinks from the many stalls provided. For the students of the Junior School, an additional $5 fee covers their lunch. This includes a sausage sandwich, lolly bag, and a small bottle of water. Please send the payment in an envelope with the oldest child. 

Upcoming Mission Events

• National Sorry Day – May 26
• Feast of Saint Marcellin Champagnat Mass – June 6
• Champagnat Day Activities – June 8

This comprehensive approach helps create a conducive learning environment that nurtures students' personal growth, resilience, and empathy, enabling them to thrive in various aspects of life.

Students often struggle to connect what they learn in classrooms with practical applications in their lives and future careers. Curriculum reform aims to bridge this gap by integrating experiential learning opportunities, project-based assignments, and internships. By immersing students in real-world scenarios, they can develop a deeper understanding of concepts and acquire the skills needed for success beyond the confines of academia. By incorporating multicultural perspectives, global issues, and languages, students can develop an appreciation for different cultures and become responsible global citizens equipped to tackle complex global challenges.

Curriculum reform emphasises the importance of lifelong learning and aims to equip students with the necessary tools to adapt to an ever-changing future. By instilling a love for learning, critical thinking skills, and the ability to learn independently, students become self-directed learners who are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Additionally, the integration of emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainability into the curriculum ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills required for the jobs of tomorrow.

Curriculum Reform has been discussed in previous newsletter articles, acknowledging the College’s response and timelines for implementation. This is supported by the College’s Strategic Plan, Learning Enrichment focus, and Universal Design for Learning. At the recent TENS (Teacher Expert Network) Conference in Sydney, Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:

“If we are to give students the strongest foundations for success in life then we need to give their teachers time to get to know the English and Maths curriculum and implement them well.

“Instead of an unworkable release of dozens of syllabuses per term this year, I’ve asked NESA to lead with those that are core to improving learning outcomes for students.”

“With almost 100 syllabuses still to be released, I am confident that we have found the right pathway to ensure a new curriculum is successfully implemented to improve student outcomes.”

“It is essential that we get a new curriculum in front of students and teachers to improve educational outcomes – and our teachers need to be given the right amount of time to do this so they can give their very best to their students.

“We are committed to working with teachers, as we address student learning outcomes across the state.”

Feedback from teachers and advisory groups was that the current curriculum reform schedule was unworkable, that the timeline is too challenging and as a result it is putting more pressure on teachers at a time when NSW is already grappling with a teacher shortage crisis.

Each new syllabus requires teachers to undertake professional learning, develop new lessons and assessments, and ensure consistent reporting to parents - all of which takes time. A strategic rollout will mean teachers have adequate time to consult and get to know the new syllabuses and the time to implement them well. The shift in timeframes means all new syllabuses will be delivered to teachers by 2027 – in line with the intent of the Masters Curriculum Review, that outlined a 10-year delivery timeframe.

Staff at the College will continue to undertake professional learning opportunities throughout this year and beyond, to support current Curriculum Reform priorities. 

Ms Judith Tolomeo

Director of Teaching and Learning

Upcoming Years 7-9 School Dance at St. Patrick's College

Mark your calendars for an upcoming event that promises to be a night of fun and excitement! St. Patrick's College has graciously invited our students to their school dance on Friday 2 June. This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to socialise, make new friends, and enjoy a night of music and dance. More details and permission slips have been sent home, so please keep an eye out for them.

College Rugby League Game

I am proud of the way our young men conducted themselves at our recent College Rugby League game. Our entire school community came out to support our talented young men, and the atmosphere was electric. Our team displayed incredible skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the game. A special mention goes to our dedicated staff and parents for their unwavering support. We wish the boys the best of luck in their next game. 

Parent-Teacher Meetings

Thank you to all the parents who attended our recent parent-teacher meetings. These meetings are an essential opportunity for open communication and collaboration between parents and teachers. We greatly value your involvement in your child's education and appreciate the insightful discussions we had. If you were unable to attend, please reach out to your child's teacher to schedule an alternative meeting.

School Police liaisons officer Senior Constable Allen Clapham Anti-Violence presentation

Senior Constable Clapham has been associated with our College for a number of years. His ongoing support in educating our students about current social issues have always been met with enthusiasm and respect.

This week Senior Constable Clapham presented on anti-violence, the campaign was released by the new police commissioner in 2023 and the message is extremely important.  

Unfortunately, violence in the Macarthur region is a problem, everyday we hear stories of violent attacks on young people, the repercussion of violent activity has a major impact, directly and indirectly in the greater community. 

Our students were responsive and acknowledged that there are no winners when people turn to violence. 

Fostering Wellbeing: Counselling Support and the Ongoing Work of the College Wellbeing Team at St. Gregory's College

In our continued commitment to the holistic development and well-being of our students, I would like to highlight the invaluable support provided by our counselling services and the dedicated work of our College Wellbeing Team.

Counselling Support

At St. Gregory's College, we understand that students may face various challenges and pressures that can impact their emotional well-being. To ensure our students receive the necessary support, our counselling services are readily available. Our team of qualified and compassionate counsellors offers a safe and confidential space where students can express their concerns, receive guidance, and develop strategies to navigate personal or academic difficulties.

Our counselling sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, addressing a range of issues including stress management, emotional well-being, relationship concerns, and academic support. Whether students require short-term interventions or ongoing counselling, our team is dedicated to promoting their mental health and overall happiness.

The Ongoing Work of the College Wellbeing Team

Our College Wellbeing Team plays a vital role in fostering a nurturing and supportive environment within the College community. Comprised of passionate individuals from various disciplines, including counsellors, Year Leaders, Academic care Leaders, homeroom teachers, College nurse and admin staff in Student Services, the team collaborates to create comprehensive programs and initiatives that promote student well-being.

Insert ‘feeling safe flyer here

The Wellbeing Team meet with students throughout the year to address relevant topics such as mindfulness, self-care, resilience, and mental health awareness. These initiatives aim to equip our students with essential life skills, empower them to make positive choices, and provide a strong foundation for their personal growth.

In addition to these opportunities, the Wellbeing Team actively engages with students, staff, and parents through regular communication channels, such as newsletters, information sessions, and parent forums. We believe that open dialogue and partnership between the College and our community are crucial in addressing well-being concerns effectively.

Looking Ahead:

As we continue to prioritize the mental health and well-being of our students, we are constantly reviewing and refining our support services. We are committed to expanding our resources, enhancing our counselling programs, and staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in student well-being.

We encourage students, parents, and staff to reach out to our counselling services and engage with the Wellbeing Team if they have any concerns or suggestions. Together, we can create an environment that nurtures resilience, fosters positive mental health, and ensures the success and happiness of every member of our College community.

In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude to our counselling team and the College Wellbeing Team for their dedication and unwavering commitment. Let us continue to work hand in hand to support and uplift one another, ensuring that St. Gregory's College remains a place where our students thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

Thank you for your ongoing support, and I wish you all a wonderful month ahead.

Warm regards,

Mr Baldino Vetrano

Director of Students

St. Gregory's College

Students from Year 7 – 12 are welcome to attend. Homework Help Club will occur on the following Mondays:

Academic Care Statement

Our Academic Care program is an important initiative of the College that distinguishes it from other schools. Through this program, our Academic Care Leaders – Mrs. Rachel Newell (Stage 4), Mr Glenn Duggan (Stage 5) and Mr Stephen Bullock (Stage 6) - provide a point of connection between pastoral care, key learning areas, learning enrichment, careers and boarding that focuses on the acquisition of academic agency, skills, and strengths. 

Over the last six months, our Academic Care Leaders have surveyed students and staff to continue developing their program. As part of this process, they have generated the following statement to articulate key aspects of Academic Care at St Gregory’s College. 

 Artificial Intelligence in Education – Initial Direction

Over the last few months, new Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has emerged that will have a significant impact on education.

Since the world that St Gregory’s students will graduate into will be one in which they will use AI applications, it is essential that the College provides students with exposure to this technology while ensuring that we take steps to help our students avoid potential misuse and negative consequences. The College will continue to adapt its response to this new technology as educational authorities issue new directives. However, it is also important for the College to communicate with our community about this issue and to clearly state the College’s direction.

Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom

During the last term, the College has engaged in research to find out more about how AI platforms will affect our teaching and learning at the College. In professional learning at the beginning of the term, teachers were provided with information about the possibilities of generative AI platforms such as ChatGPT and the integration of AI into already existing technologies such as Google and Microsoft. 

AI platforms now have the ability to generate extended responses to research questions complete with bibliographies and in-text referencing. They can generate whole digital presentations, construct graphic designs, write computer code programs, design artworks, musical compositions and produce detailed business plans. In short, AI platforms have the potential to assist in most facets of education both at school and at tertiary levels. However, there is also the potential that generative AI can be used as a shortcut that would circumvent the processes of student planning, researching, drafting and thinking.

The College’s direction is that it will continue to research and provide staff and students with education about developments in AI and implications for them. We will also regularly provide information on AI and the College’s developing direction. Finally, the College will adjust its approach as new information emerges and as governing bodies such as NESA provide direction.

Artificial Intelligence in Assessment

Assessment is an area in which AI could have a detrimental impact on teaching and learning. To provide our community with clear guidelines, the College has taken the position that students are not to use generative AI in the production of assessment tasks. 

At present, our Leaders of Learning and their teams are conducting an audit of assessments and will make changes to mitigate against the misuse of AI.

Our Assessment Policy malpractice statement in Academic Handbooks has been adjusted to include the use of generative AI. A new version has been uploaded to the Sentral Portal. Assessment Task Notification sheets also include a statement about the use of AI.

For assessment tasks in which there is still the potential for students to misuse AI, the College will continue to use the plagiarism/collusion checker Turnitin as one of its strategies. This platform can now detect the use of AI (AI Writing Detection Frequently Asked Questions | Turnitin).

Teachers and Academic Care Leaders will continue to educate students about responsibility, honesty and integrity in assessments, they will continue to use the All My Own Work program (HSC: All My Own Work | NSW Education Standards) in Year 11 and Year 12 and teachers will monitor for the misuse of AI in student work. The College is also investigating other resources and a possible micro-credential in the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence.

When government agencies such as NESA provide new guidelines, the College will adopt these and modify our direction as necessary.      

The most important strategy for utilising this new technology while maintaining the integrity of assessments and learning, however, is to enlist our College community. Therefore, we ask for your support and we welcome any feedback you may have. 

If you have any questions about our students’ use of Artificial Intelligence platforms, we encourage you to contact subject teachers, Leaders of Learning, Year/Academic Care Leaders or either of us.

Year 7 – 10 Semester 1 Examinations

Students in Year 7 – 10 will complete their Semester 1 Examinations commencing from Monday 29 May. Examination Timetable and Instruction sheets have been sent to Parents, Carers and Students via the Sentral Portal. Students can also access a copy of the timetable through Sentral Messages. 

Teachers and Academic Care Leaders have worked with students to help them prepare for these exams by providing students with a study guide as part of their Assessment Notifications and by giving them practice materials in class.  

While many courses will hold examinations, other courses may choose to assess students through practical, research or in-class tasks. This means that not all subjects will have a Semester 1 exam. 

We wish all students, but particularly our Year 7 students who will be completing Semester examinations for the first time, the best of luck in these tasks.

If your son is absent from an exam, please email the Academic Care Leader (Rachel Newell – Year 7 & 8; Glenn Duggan – Year 9) and provide a medical certificate. In Year 10, students will need to submit a Student Assessment Form with evidence. These forms are available on the Sentral Portal (in documents) and hard copies are available in Student Services. In most cases, there will not be an opportunity for students to complete a catch-up exam and teachers will use other tasks and classwork for reporting purposes. If no documentation is received within five days of the task date, the student will receive zero for the task and a Letter of Concern (Year 7 – 9) or N-Determination Warning Letter (Year 10).

Trial HSC Examination Timetable

The Trial HSC Examination Timetable and Instructions have now been published for students. They are available on Sentral Portal and have been emailed to all students. Year 12 students can also access their individualised HSC Examination timetable and view specific HSC Examination instructions on the NESA Students Online website.

Student Assessment Forms

The College has changed Student Assessment Forms to include assessments missed due to College Representation. 

If a student will miss an assessment due to College representation – for College approved sporting, co-curricular or leadership events – they will need to complete a Student Assessment Form before they are approved to attend the event. Students will receive an email once their form has been processed and coaches will be notified.

Student Assessment Forms are located on Sentral Portal (in documents) and hard copies are available from Student Services. They can be submitted to SAF@stgregs.nsw.edu.au or at Student Services.

Study Skills Tip