ACSP Conference

I recently had the pleasure of attending the 2025 Association of Catholic School Principals (ACSP) State Conference. This biennial event gathers principals from Catholic schools across NSW to engage with high-quality speakers on contemporary educational topics. We explored the implications and possibilities of the latest research and ideas presented. The conference also provided a valuable opportunity to network with other school leaders and learn about developments in other schools and dioceses. We delved into key topics such as AI in education, leadership during times of change, and strategic planning. The focus on staff wellbeing was particularly inspiring. I look forward to sharing my learning with staff, students, and the broader community as the year continues.

College Professional Learning

On Monday 26th and Tuesday 27^th May our teaching staff engaged in a package of professional learning put together by our Executive team as we continue to focus on being a school of excellence in Learning, Wellbeing and Faith Formation. On the Monday Erinn Roberts, NESA Liaison Officer - Hunter/Central Coast, worked with staff around Stage 6 Assessment processes. On Tuesday Adam Frost, Education Officer for RE and Spirituality Services, guided us through 4 pathways to prayer and Craig Moore, Education Access Officer - Positive Behaviour, inspired us with learning around positive behaviour and how we can work with our young people in aspiring to be the best versions of themselves.  We thank you family community for supporting us in our continuing professional learning, we know it makes us all better educators.

Catholic Schools Week Liturgy

This week is Catholic Schools Week, a week that provides an opportunity for our schools to not only showcase their rich and vibrant Catholic identity, but to affirm their integral role within our local communities, highlighting the multitude of learning and faith experiences that occur every day. On Friday 30^th June Mr Fuller and I were joined by Cole Opalenko, Sophia Aguba and Amelia Fuentes at the liturgy celebrating this special week. I thank these three students for representing our college with pride.

2025 Awards for Excellence

On the evening of Friday 30^th June, the Maitland Newcastle Diocese celebrated the inaugural Catholic Schools Awards Evening. The 2024 HSC Awards for Excellence were presented alongside the Recognition of 25 Years of Service Awards and the prestigious Emmaus Awards. It was a delight to be there to see one of our very own, Ryan Kooyman, awarded one of the awards for Excellence in the First Five Years of Teaching. See below the opening stanza of the nomination submitted by a proud Leader of Learning, Gillian Rutherford, 

Mr. Ryan Kooyman is nominated for his exceptional contributions to San Clemente High School during his first five years as a Secondary TAS teacher. Ryan demonstrates remarkable dedication, innovation, and leadership, significantly enhancing students’ learning experiences. He has transformed both the culture and learning spaces within the TAS subject areas and has particularly inspired disengaged boys.

I’m sure our broader community will join me in congratulating Ryan on this achievement and recognition.

Dio-Sounds

Last night, our talented music students dazzled the audience at the Civic Theatre with their Dio-Sounds performance. Their renditions of "Life is a Highway" and "A Sky Full of Stars" were truly outstanding, showcasing their incredible talent, energy, and stage presence. The performance was further enriched by the participation of students from St Dominic’s, highlighting the wonderful connection between our two schools.

A special thank you goes out to all our dedicated music teachers, especially Ms. Kate James, who has been the creative director and drummer extraordinaire, preparing our students so beautifully for this event.

Parent Forum – How we wear our uniform

On Monday 23^rd June we invite parents and carers to join us for a parent forum discussion about how we wear the college uniform here at San Clemente. Please see the below flyer for more information.

Bishops Flood Appeal

As we continue to pray for those affected by the recent flood events, let's keep our diocesan friends in the Manning region in our thoughts. Bishop Michael has launched a flood appeal (details below), and we encourage everyone to contribute if possible to support those in need.