San Clemente Catholic College Mayfield eNewsletter

A Prayer for Small Moments of Joy

School Visit

This week we were delighted to welcome representatives from the Diocese for a school visit, providing a wonderful opportunity to showcase the learning, growth, Catholic identity and strong community spirit that make San Clemente so special. Our visitors were highly impressed by the pride and warmth shown by our students and the professionalism of our staff. They also affirmed our clear direction as we prepare for Stage 6 in 2026. As always, we have received helpful feedback that will guide our continued growth — especially in developing our learning spaces and ensuring consistent excellence in all we do. We are grateful for your ongoing support as we celebrate these achievements and work together to strengthen the future of our College.

Brief Emotional Uplift: Small Moments That Make a Big Difference

At San Clemente, we know that wellbeing isn’t only built through major milestones or grand gestures — it’s also shaped by the small, everyday moments of care and connection that fill our school days. Positive psychologist Professor Lea Waters calls these moments Brief Emotional Uplifts: tiny sparks of encouragement, recognition, or joy that can create a real boost for our wellbeing, learning and relationships.

A brief emotional uplift might be:
A warm greeting at the classroom door
A student being recognised for their effort — not just their result
A parent celebrating a small breakthrough at home
A friend’s smile at the right time
A quick message acknowledging someone’s kindness or courage

Research shows that these positive interactions can broaden our thinking, reduce stress, and build resilience. For students, they can create a sense of being seen and valued — which is the foundation for confidence, motivation and strong engagement in learning. For families and staff, they help strengthen the powerful partnerships that make our community such a vibrant one.

This approach aligns beautifully with our Catholic mission. When we help one another feel uplifted — even for a moment — we are participating in the Gospel work of hope, love and encouragement. Just as Jesus recognised the dignity and gifts of each person He encountered, we too can make a meaningful difference by noticing and celebrating the goodness in one another.

In the coming weeks, we will be inviting students to practise this simple approach: choosing to notice one good thing each day and sharing encouragement freely. These small shifts in attention can create a positive ripple effect across classrooms, families and friendships — especially in the busiest times of the year.

I encourage you, as families, to try this at home as well:

Share one positive moment from the day at dinner
Acknowledge persistence when things are challenging
Celebrate effort, not just achievement

Together, we can build a community where hope is noticed, celebrated and multiplied — one small moment at a time.

Let’s continue to lift one another up.

With prayers and blessings,

Mrs Emma South, Principal

Supporting Families Through Upcoming Social Media Law Changes

In recent months, the Australian Government has proposed new social media restrictions for young people, designed to help protect children and teenagers from the risks associated with online use. These potential laws aim to set a minimum age for social media access and require age verification for users, as part of a broader national conversation about digital wellbeing and child safety online.

At San Clemente Catholic College, we recognise that technology plays a huge role in our students’ lives: socially, emotionally, and educationally. While online platforms can offer valuable opportunities for connection and creativity, research continues to highlight concerns around mental health, cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and the addictive nature of social media use among young people.

The government’s proposed changes aim to support families by reducing early exposure and giving parents greater confidence in how their children engage online. Still, such changes can raise practical and emotional questions at home, especially for families with teenagers who already have a strong digital presence.

How Families Can Prepare

Start the conversation early. Talk with your child about the upcoming changes and what they might mean for their online habits. Emphasise that these laws are designed to protect, not punish.
Set clear boundaries together. Revisit your family’s digital agreements, such as device-free times or limits on screen use, so that expectations are consistent and realistic.
Encourage positive online behaviour. Focus on what children can do safely online: connecting with friends in healthy ways, learning new skills, and using technology creatively.
Model balance. Children often take their cues from us. Showing mindful and moderate technology use as adults helps reinforce that balance and boundaries apply to everyone.
Stay informed. As details of the legislation are finalised, reliable updates will be available from the eSafety Commissioner and Australian Government Department of Communications websites.

Free Parent and Carer Webinar: LOGGED OUT

Families are encouraged to take part in LOGGED OUT, a free 60-minute webinar for parents, carers, and educators on Thursday 6 November at 7:30 pm. This session focuses on the psychological side of managing social media changes, rather than the technical aspects.

The webinar will explore:

Talking about the ban openly and calmly
Managing strong emotions and feelings of social disconnection
Helping young people make values-based choices online
Backing up digital memories and supporting identity shifts
Building a healthy online–offline balance this summer

The session includes a live Q&A and a bonus PDF playbook of extra resources and activities.

Register here: Webinar Registration - Zoom

Our shared goal is to create a culture where young people feel empowered to use technology wisely and where families are supported in guiding them through these changes. Together, we can help our children navigate this digital world with safety, balance, and confidence.

Nathan Beckett Assistant Principal (Wellbeing)

Semester Two Examinations

Semester Exams commence Wednesday of Week 4 for Year 10 and start Monday Week 6 for Year 9. A copy of their examination timetable has been provided below; students also received a hard copy in Mentor. Families are encouraged to put the timetable up in a public location in the home so they are aware of what exams their child(ren) will be completing on each day. Notifications for the examinations should be coming out to students in hard copy and email.

Students and parents/carers are reminded of the assessment policy – absence from exams. Appropriate documentation (including the assessment variation form – Years 9 and 10 and supporting documentation such as doctors certificate for Year 10) to support any absence on the day of an exam is required in Stage 5. Please refer to the school website for more information or contact the Leader of Learning or myself with any questions.

Study Techniques and Mindfulness

A recent podcast I listened to by an American neuroscientist Andrew Huberman on Optimal Protocols for Studying and Learning (Huberman Lab) highlighted five important strategies that your child(ren) may implement leading up to their assessment period:

Schedule time to focus
Remove distractions
Isolate or study alone
Teach others
Have an aspiration goal

The podcast also highlighted the importance of mindful meditation. For some students, ‘meditating’ can be too much particularly for longer periods of time. An easy strategy was to start with short 5 min meditating moments where your child may keep eyes open and focus on one image/landscape. As their mind wanders, they should calmly bring their mind back to the focused point (image/landscape) and continue focusing on this. This skill can be built up over time but may have positive outcome of improving focus during an examination.

Warm regards,

Leticia Wakely, Assistant Principal Teaching and Learning

Social_media_age_restrictions_poster _pdf 145.47 KB

Student BYOD Devices important message: Windows 10 is reaching end of life

Action is required for students with BYOD Windows 10 devices as Windows 10 will soon no longer be supported by Microsoft.

To ensure your student device security you should upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as possible.

Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end on 14 October 2025, meaning it will no longer receive critical security updates.

To stay protected and ensure optimal performance, it is strongly recommended that all students with BYOD Windows 10 devices follow Microsoft’s instructions and upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as possible. There is no charge for this upgrade.

Why this matters:

Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 from 15 October 2025.
Upgrading to Windows 11 helps reduce security risks.
Student Work Protection: Staying current helps safeguard assignments, projects, and personal data.

Ways to install Windows 11 - Microsoft Support

Upgrade to Windows 11: FAQ - Microsoft Support

Read our FAQs for more support:

How do I check what version of Windows am I running?

Select Start > Settings > System, then select About. You then see Edition, Version, and OS Build information.

We encourage all families with Student Windows 10 computers to begin the upgrade process now to avoid last-minute disruptions. If you need assistance or have questions about upgrading, please reach out to the IT support team in our school.

What if my device can’t upgrade?

If a Student’s BYOD laptop is running Windows 10 and can’t be upgraded to Windows 11 (usually due to older hardware), Microsoft is offering a free security update program to help keep the device safe for one more year.

The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is designed to keep your current Windows 10 PC protected after support ends, helping you stay secure during the transition.

How to Join Microsoft’s ESU Program

Microsoft has made it easy to enrol directly from the laptop:

On eligible computers, a setup wizard will appear in Settings > Windows Update.
There are three ways to enrol:

Free – Sync your settings to the cloud using Windows Backup. You must be logged in as administrator and with a Microsoft account.
Free – Use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
Paid – Buy a one-year license for $30 USD (families cover this cost).

Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 | Microsoft Learn

Marni May Executive Assistant

Elevate Education delivers high-impact workshops that help to develop studnets study skills, motivation, and exam preparation. Throughout Term 4, you're invited to join their parent webinar series, where you can help support your child at home by reinforcing the skills they're learning at school.

Register today at: https://go.elevateeducation.com/auschoolwebinars

How To Help Your Child Alleviate Stress 12th November 6:30pm (AEDT)

How You Can Build Resilience in Your Child 26th November 6:30pm (AEDT)

How You Can Set Your Child Up for Success 10^th December 6:30pm (AEDT)

Patrick Doyle, Transition Coordinator/HSIE Teacher

As we begin Term 4, I would like to warmly welcome back all Year 9 students and their families to what is always a busy, important and rewarding stage of the school year. The final term provides a valuable opportunity for all students to demonstrate growth, maturity, and leadership as they complete their final assessments and prepare for the transition into Year 10.

At San Clemente, we continue to uphold high expectations around positive behaviour and respect—both in and out of the classroom. I encourage all students to act with integrity, kindness, and responsibility, contributing to a safe and supportive learning environment for everyone. Positive behaviour enables not only personal success but also enhances the wellbeing and learning of the entire cohort.

This term also sees the full implementation of our revised uniform policy. I want to thank families for their ongoing support and understanding as students take pride in wearing their uniform correctly and representing our college community with dignity and respect. A consistent approach to uniform standards helps build a sense of unity and belonging among students. Adhering to uniform expectations not only promotes a sense of belonging and equality within our community but also reflects our shared commitment to respect and discipline. We encourage parents and carers to check that all uniform items meet College standards, including appropriate footwear and accessories. Should any issues arise, we invite families to contact the school early so that we can work together to find practical solutions.

As students move closer to end-of-year examinations and final assessments, I want to encourage parents and carers to remain actively connected to their child’s learning journey. Simple actions such as checking Compass, engaging in conversations about daily progress, and supporting good study habits at home can make a significant difference. Together, we can ensure that your child finishes the year with confidence and a sense of achievement. Taking time to discuss study goals, review assessment schedules, and provide encouragement at home can make a meaningful difference. Students are encouraged to use study planners, seek feedback from their teachers, and access available learning support and revision resources. Open communication between school and home will ensure that each student feels well prepared and confident as they head into their final assessments and examinations.

Things to consider for your child in the lead up, during, as well as after the examinations might include;

Before Exams: Preparation is Key

Create a Study Schedule:

Break revision into small, manageable chunks.
Focus on one subject or topic at a time.
Start early — avoid cramming the night before.

Set Up a Study Space:

Choose a quiet area with good lighting.
Keep distractions (like phones) away.
Have all materials ready — textbooks, notes, pens, and highlighters.

Use Active Study Techniques:

Summarise key points in your own words.
Create mind maps, flashcards, or practice quizzes.
Teach a topic to someone else — if you can explain it clearly, you know it well.

Practice Past Papers or Example Questions:

Get used to the style and timing of exam questions.
Review marking criteria to understand what teachers are looking for.

Look After Yourself:

Sleep 8–9 hours a night.
Eat balanced meals and drink plenty of water.
Take short breaks every 30–40 minutes to stay fresh.

During Exams: Stay Calm and Focused

Arrive Early and Prepared:

Bring all necessary materials — pens, calculator, ruler, etc.
Take deep breaths and stay positive before entering the exam room.

Read the Paper Carefully:

Spend the first few minutes reading through all questions.
Highlight key words like explain, evaluate, compare.

Manage Your Time:

Allocate time for each question and keep an eye on the clock.
If you get stuck, move on and return later.

Answer What’s Asked:

Stick to the question — don’t go off track.
Use clear, structured paragraphs or bullet points if appropriate.

Check Your Work:

Use any extra time to review spelling, grammar, and missing details.
Make sure you’ve answered every question.

After Exams: Reflect and Recharge

Don’t Dwell on Mistakes:

Once it’s done, it’s done — move forward with the next subject.
Focus your energy on what you can still improve.

Review Feedback:

When results come back, read teacher comments carefully.
Note which topics or skills need more attention next time.

Celebrate Your Effort:

Reward yourself for your hard work, regardless of the outcome.
Take time to relax, spend time with family and friends, and recharge.

Set New Goals:

Use what you’ve learned this exam season to prepare for Year 10.
Identify strategies that worked well and build on them

I would like to wish all Year 9 students every success for Term 4 and thank our families for their continued partnership and support in fostering the values that make San Clemente Catholic College such a unique, vibrant and caring community.

A final thought on the importance of being prepared;

“To be prepared against surprise is to be trained. To be prepared for surprise is to be educated.”

Families, as always, should you wish to discuss an issue concerning your child please do not hesitate to call The Office on 40147300 or email me directly - mitch.allan@mn.catholic.edu.au

Warm Regards,

Mitch Allan – Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement Year 9

“From little things big things grow”

Paul Kelly

Every morning in my house we have the same conversation: “Have you made your bed? Have you cleaned your teeth? Have you packed your school bag?” It’s become a small but important ritual before we leave for the day. My children constantly whinge that I am too strict but as Admiral William McRaven so wisely said in his famous commencement address, “If you want to change the world, start off the day by making your bed.”

When I first showed my children the video of Admiral McRaven’s speech, we talked about how doing the small things right sets the tone for the rest of the day. Making your bed might seem insignificant, but it gives you a small sense of pride, a simple achievement that can build momentum for everything that follows.

This week, Year 8 explored this same idea through a reflection activity inspired by McRaven’s message. Students considered the small things that make a big difference in their own lives and learning. Being organised, wearing the uniform correctly, arriving on time, and showing kindness and respect. At San Clemente, these are more than just rules or expectations; they are part of what makes our community strong. Every small act of responsibility, courtesy, or effort contributes to the positive culture we work hard to build. Whether it’s a student greeting a teacher, helping a peer, participating in a liturgy, or showing pride in their learning, these moments reflect the values and mantra of respect, responsibility and ready to learn that we have been focusing on.

As we move through Term 4, Year 8 are encouraged to keep focusing on the small things; the quiet, consistent choices that help them grow into capable, responsible, and compassionate individuals. After all, from little things, big things truly do grow.

Year 8 Shout Outs:

Congratulations to Jensen Robinson on his success in competing in the One Ice Hockey Tournament.
Well done to the students who competed in the Beach Touch Competition.
Bravo to Evie Reid, Ezra Hoscke, Finn McArthur, Alex Tang, Jonah Lamont, Alex Hatherall, Thomas Nyman and Lamija Pavlovic for performing in San Clemente Socktober Talent Show.
Well done to the students in Year 8 who were recognised for their achievements in the Religious Literacy Exam.
Congratulations to Alex Tang, Lincoln O’Brien and Adelaide Goff on their achievements at Diocesan Athletics.

Any questions or queries please feel free to email me on Meredith.macdonald@mn.catholic.edu.au or call on 40147300.

Meredith MacDonald Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement

This newsletter I thought I would write a little about teenagers and the benefits of being kind to one another.

Being kind to others has a powerful impact on teenagers’ emotional and social development. When young people choose kindness, they create a positive environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. Acts of kindness—like offering help, giving a compliment, or including someone who feels left out—build stronger friendships and reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation. This sense of connection helps teenagers feel more confident and supported as they navigate the challenges of growing up.

Kindness also benefits mental health. Studies show that being kind releases “feel-good” hormones like oxytocin and serotonin, which can reduce stress and increase happiness. When teenagers practice kindness regularly, they are more likely to experience empathy and gratitude—two qualities that promote emotional balance and resilience. By focusing on helping others instead of competing or comparing, teens can build a healthier self-image and cope better with social pressures.

Finally, kindness helps shape the kind of world teenagers will live in as adults. When young people learn to treat others with respect and understanding, they set an example for their peers and contribute to a more compassionate community. Simple kind actions can have a ripple effect, inspiring others to do the same. In this way, kindness doesn’t just make individual lives better—it strengthens friendships, schools, and society as a whole.

If parents have any concerns please contact me on 40147300 or via email kate.tolfree@mn.catholic.edu.au.

Kate Tolfree Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement Year 7

What’s happening in Science in term 4 ……

Stage 4 and 5 are studying Earth and Space

Year 7 have been studying the rock cycle, minerals and earth’s processes. They have been lucky enough to have San Clemente’s vast and exceptional rock collection to supplement their theory work. The last few weeks of the term will be looking at Earth’s place in our Solar system – and the relative positions of the Sun, the Earth and the Moon.

Year 8 finished term 3 with an excursion to the Awabakal Centre, Dudley to enhance their study of ecosystems and are currently studying Earth’s spheres, the structure of the Earth and Earth’s resources, looking closely at how the four spheres interact and our human impact on them. Students are undertaking a scientific investigation modelling the enhanced greenhouse effect and researching this issue.

Year 9 began the term looking at ecosystems supplemented with a visit to the Shortland Wetlands Centre where students had the opportunity to get hands on to observe and measure the biotic and abiotic factors of this wetland ecosystem, undertake dip netting and a survey of the microscopic animal life present. Students are currently studying the Theory of Plate Tectonics and will be continuing study on global systems after their Semester Two examination.

Year 10 have studied the components of the universe, the formation of stars and the elements. Following their Semester Two examination, year 10 will investigate the Big Bang theory and space technology.

9 Marine have been studying the history of snorkelling, current equipment, safety regulations and snorkelling techniques, practicing their skills at Mayfield pool.

10 Marine have studied the abyssal zone, it’s features and the creatures that live in this mysterious and relatively unexplored marine ecosystem.

9iSTEM are exploring Mechatronics and Robotics with the microbits and associated project based learning.

10iSTEM are researching drones and their usefulness in the agriculture industry as part of the Agritech unit, and flying bottle rockets, following up term 3 research.

This week, both year 9 and 10 iSTEM classes have been involved in testing prototypes for a new Science and Engineering activity with UoN staff, providing feedback about the activity and the engineering processes involved.

Julia Nolan Leader of Learning Science

Friday School Sport

On Friday 17^th October San Clemente students participated in School Sport for the first time this term. Students visited a wide range of facilities and engaged in several different activities including ocean baths swimming, coastal walk, fishing, indoor soccer, rock climbing and laser tag, to name a few. All reports were that students thoroughly enjoyed their visits to the venues and we hope that this continues for the duration of Term 4.

Again, we strongly encourage all students to participate for the entire duration of Friday Sport. If it is necessary to pick your son/daughter up from school early on a Friday, or collect them from a sport venue early, please ensure that your child is picked up by either a parent/guardian or an emergency contact as listed by the school.

U13s Mark Sargent Cup 9’s

At the end of last term on the 17^th Wednesday September our U13s boys Rugby League team competed in the NRL Mark Sargent 9’s competition at Lakeside Sports Complex, Raymond Terrace. Our young people represented the college with outstanding sportsmanship and unmated enthusiasm during a day of mixed results as outlined below;

Game 1 – vs Tomaree HS – LOST – 16 to 11
Game 2 – vs Mount View HS – WON – 25 to 0
Quarter Final – vs Trinity CC – LOST – 49 to 8

We thank Coaches Mr Allan and Mr Byrne for coaching the boys throughout the day.

2025 NSW All Schools Athletics Championships

Three talented students proudly represented SCCC at the 2025 NSW All Schools Athletics Championships, held from 27th to 30th September at Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre. Competing against the state’s best young athletes, they showcased outstanding dedication, sportsmanship, and skill across their events. Their performances reflected months of hard work and commitment, bringing pride to the San Clemente school community.

Gemma Mooney:

3^rd Place - 13 Girls 80m Hurdles

Gemma was also selected in the NSWCCC Merit which is a remarkable achievement, congratulations.

Georgia Clarke:

4^th Place – 13 Girls Discus 30.39m

8^th Place – 13 Girls Shot Put 10.35m

7^th Place – 13 Girls Hammer Throw 25.25m

Alex Tang :

16^th Place – 14 Boys 100m

Congratulations to our athletes for their impressive achievements and for representing SCCC with excellence on the state sta

Hunter Academy – Volleyball

A reminder that applications are now open for the 2025/26 Hunter Academy of Sport Volleyball Program.

To register your interest and for more information about the program, please click on the following link;

https://hunteracademy.org.au/programs/indoor-volleyball/

Applications close Friday 5th of November 2025.

To be eligible for the 2025/26 HAS Volleyball Program:

Hold a valid VNSW Membership
Attend a trial for the Academy
Born 2009- 2014

U14 (12-13 years old)
U16 (14-15 years old)
U18 (16-17 years old) – Athletes can’t turn 18 in 2025

Elise Carter (Acting Sport Coordinator)

FINANCE OFFICE

Office Hours

MONDAY - FRIDAY

8am - 3pm

Fee statements will continue to be emailed 1^st week of every month.

If you are not receiving these statements, please contact the school Finance Office asap.

Fees:

Payments can be made via Bpay, direct debit, Compass or credit card (over the phone).

Payments can be made weekly, fortnightly or monthly. Payments of school fees must commence by 31 March 2025 and be finalised by 30 November 2025.

If you elected to pay your fees annually, then these fees need to be finalised by 30 June 2025.

For families experiencing financial hardship, or wishing to discuss other payment arrangements, please contact the Finance Office.

Julie Doherty & Kerrie Nolan (Fridays)

Greetings San Clemente Community,

Beyond the Gates is an inclusive program that aims to support students and their families who may require additional or more versatile support services. The program has a flexible eligibility criterion, meaning referrals are made and prioritised in partnership between the school wellbeing team and Beyond the Gates staff member. Student and family engagement in our program is entirely voluntary. The service is provided by the school to recognise and address developmental and life challenges that can sometimes create barriers to student wellbeing and achievement.

This program can address issues impacting on students’ achieving their full potential, including areas such as school attendance, family difficulties, trauma, anxiety, mental and physical ill-health, and any other struggles that impact wellbeing. The program works alongside the schools’ wellbeing, learning support, and counselling teams to support families in need through case management or case coordination.

Through case management, a support plan is developed in collaboration with the students and their families that work towards desired goals. As part of the process, the caseworker liaises with the school and other agencies or supports involved, aiming to bridge the gap between the school and families to ensure holistic and consistent support is provided.

Learn more about Beyond the Gates - YouTube

We have two Beyond the Gates Caseworkers based at San Clemente Catholic College.

Kalisi Ma’afu – Monday to Friday.

John Sandy – Every Tuesday.

If you would like to know more about the Beyond the Gates program or discuss support, contact Kalisi, John, or the wellbeing team.

Kalisi – kalisi.maafu@catholiccare.org.au

John – john.sandy@catholiccare.org.au

Learn more about Beyond the Gates - YouTube

KALISI MA'AFU - KMaafu@catholiccare.org.au
CC BEYOND THE GATES CASEWORKER CATHOLIC CARE SOCIAL SERVICES HUNTER-MANNING