Focus Newsletter - Term 3 Issue 3 - 2025

Acting Principal Leader

Dear Parents, Students and Staff,

This week has been an exciting week at the College with several significant events that I would like to mention for the information of our parents and students. 

HSC Major Works Showcase Evening
Last Thursday we held our 2025 HSC Major Works Showcase Evening. Despite atrocious weather during the day, the evening attracted strong patronage from parents, families, staff and students and the quality of the Visual Arts, Photography and Industrial Technology projects was exceptional. This was beautifully complemented by some outstanding musical performances by our Year 12 students, who were very warmly supported by a large and appreciative audience. The quality of the evening reflects the professionalism and dedication of our teachers - so well done to all involved. Special thanks to Ms Gretel Collison for her oversight of the evening.

Staff Spirituality Day
Last Friday we held our 2025 Staff Spirituality Day.  This year - as part of our School Improvement Plan goal of providing opportunities for staff and students to experience God moments in their lives - we embarked on a different model for this event from previous years, with a focus on outreach and social justice. There were many and varied experiences available for staff – including Jesuit Social Services at Emerton, Uniting Church Aged Care facilities at Blacktown, Emu Plains and Westmead, St Lucy’s School for Students with Disabilities at Wahroonga, Jesuit Refugee Services at Parramatta, blood donations, and several parish working bees. The feedback from staff was extremely positive, with many expressing a profound sense of gratitude for the chance to step outside our school bubble and experience other perspectives on life. The liturgy that we shared after lunch focused on the well-known words from the Gospel of Matthew (25:40) “…. whatsoever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me”, inviting staff to reflect on the many opportunities we have as a school to help students and families in our community who struggle with even the most basic demands of daily life.  

Apart from the obvious benefits for our staff, hopefully the day will inspire connections between our school and some of these organisations that we can tap into in the near future with our students as part of their Faith in Action program.

Sacramental Program
This week the students in our school-based Sacramental Program participated in the Sacrament of Reconciliation following our normal Thursday College Mass in the Chapel and then received their First Eucharist and Confirmation at St Patricks Church, Blacktown. This was a significant milestone for these young men and their families, sponsors and God-parents, and we thank Mr Greg Beacroft and Mr Anthony Pope for their work with these students over several months. Thanks also to Fr Wim Hoekstra and Fr Andrew Rooney from Mary Queen of the Family Parish for their ongoing guidance and support.

College Assembly
On a different note, this week we had arguably the most dynamic College Assembly of the year so far – including the grand final of the Push Up Challenge, announcement of the Athletics Carnival final results, Silver Awards, a performance by one of our Year 11 Music students, highlights from the recent NRL Schoolboy Cup quarter final, and promotions for the upcoming RUOK Week and Bronut Day. As always, our students got behind each of these items with tremendous enthusiasm and there was no doubt that the legendary Patties spirit is well and truly alive.

In the next fortnight we look forward to celebrations for NAIDOC Week, guest speakers from the Jack Beasley Foundation, Year 9 Reflection Day, our Father’s Day Mass at St Patrick’s Church Blacktown, the NSW Final of the NRL Schoolboy Cup against Hunter Sports High School, Year 11 Examinations, and the annual Bishop’s Excellence Awards.

Thanks for your trust and ongoing support.

Brian Edmonds
Acting Principal

Acting Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care

Attendance
What is an UNEXPLAINED ABSENCE? When a student does not attend school and their whereabouts or reason for absence is not declared by a parent/carer, they are deemed to be ABSENT UNEXPLAINED. At the present time, our school currently has in excess of 41% of our student absences as unexplained (this should be close to zero). This may not cause any long-term ramifications for a one-off incident, however, if a student habitually has a significant number of unexplained absences, this may result in issues such as:

• rejection of an appeal if a student were to query a HSC mark due to medical/health reasons (because there is no recorded history of justifiable/medical reasons)
• if a student were to be given an N-Determination (i.e. fail/non-completion) of a Year 10, 11 and/or 12 course), it reflects a non-serious attempt and approach to their studies which may impact their chance of a successful appeal.
• some families may not receive government support payments if their child has an attendance rate below 90% or equal or lower number of unexplained absences.

All parents/carers must explain their son’s absence via Compass within 10 days. School records cannot be adjusted if the reason is entered after 10 days of the absence. If you need help with this, please contact the College office for assistance.

No one can anticipate the future, and we pray that every student remains safe and healthy, but if they were still enrolled at school and an unfortunate event were to occur that resulted in significant time away from school, then it is important that a positive historical attendance record exists that will support each student if the need arises.

You can review the CSPD Student Attendance Policy which is available on our school website or contact the Student Formation Leaders for each respective year group if you have any queries.

Partial Attendance
What is a Partial Attendance? This is when a student arrives late or departs early. At Patrician Brothers' Blacktown, we have a significant concern about the number of late arrivals of our students. In a school context, arriving late disrupts the learning process for each student and the teacher. Imagine being half way through a sentence and repeatedly someone interrupts. That is what repeated late arrivals feels like.

Students are missing the foundations for learning that are delivered at the beginning of their lessons, which makes the learning experience an even greater challenge. Would habitual late arrival be tolerated in the workplace? There are not many individuals who have the flexibility in their workplace to arrive late every day. And if a workplace were to tolerate repeated lateness, then what are the consequences? Others could receive a promotion before you, your workplace could miss that important contract or opportunity, or your pay could be docked.

Students at Patrician Brothers' College Blacktown are required to arrive by 8:45am, and not a minute later. Could all parents/carers and students please ensure they are working together to ensure our students' punctuality is taken care of.

David Sullivan
Acting Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal - Learning, Teaching and Innovation

Year 11 2025 Subject Lines (Year 10 in 2024)
We have now completed the considerable task of finalising subject lines for Year 11, 2025, based on student preferences. This process was made smoother thanks to the attendance and positive engagement of parents and carers at our Subject Selection Information Evening early in Term 2, as well as the subsequent follow up interviews.

As a result, we now know all of the courses that will be running for Year 11 next year and the lines of the timetable on which they will be placed. At our College, subject lines are determined in response to student choices. This differs from other schools, which may set subject lines first and then ask students to select from them.

In some cases, students have found that two of their chosen subjects fall on the same line, or that a course they selected will not be offered next year due to insufficient interest. This is a common occurrence across schools as timetables are structured to meet the diverse needs, interests, and demands of students and courses. Where this has occurred, we have worked closely with the students to select an alternative subject, and this process is nearing completion.

Once all study patterns have been finalised, parents and carers will receive a letter confirming their son’s subjects for Year 11 in 2025. We kindly ask that these letters are signed and returned promptly to the College Office.

Year 11 Assessment Block
At this stage of the term, all Year 11 students should be well underway with their study and revision programs in preparation for the upcoming assessment block. Information regarding the assessment block, including the timetable and expectations, has been communicated to parents, carers, and students via Compass.

The Year 11 assessment block will commence on Monday 8 September, and conclude on Friday 19 September. It is essential that students establish and maintain effective study habits now, as the content of Year 11 provides an important foundation for Year 12 courses. In many HSC subjects, a significant proportion of Year 11 content is assumed knowledge for understanding or accessing Year 12 coursework.

These examinations represent the final assessments for Year 11 courses in 2025. From the beginning of Term 4, all students will commence their HSC studies. From this point onwards, all assessment tasks will contribute to the Year 12 HSC Assessment Program.

Creative and Performing Arts / TAS Showcase
It was with immense pride and joy that I attended one of our most memorable Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) and Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) Showcase evenings, held in the College Hall last Thursday 21 August.

Our Music Performances in the Round were a delight to listen to, the TAS Major Projects reflected outstanding workmanship and technical skill, and the Visual Arts and Photography Major Projects were inspiring examples of creativity, connectedness, and passion.

I extend my sincere thanks to all staff and students who contributed to the success of the evening; from those who prepared and displayed works, to the talented musicians and vocalists, and the many guests who attended in support of this wonderful celebration of student achievement. This event was a true testament to the talent of our students and the dedication of their exceptional teachers.

Heath Borg
Assistant Principal
Learning, Teaching and Innovation

Religious Education and Mission

Thursday Morning Mass
We continue to celebrate Mass in the College Chapel every Thursday at 8:15am. We welcome all students, staff, parents and carers who wish to attend the Mass. Each week one of the year groups lead us by reading the First Reading, Responsorial Psalm, and Prayer of the Faithful : this week our Year 12 students led us in proclaiming the Word for their last time as students of the College.

Delany Reach Out Fundraiser
Each year we raise funds for the Delany Foundation through the Delany Reach Out Appeal. These funds go towards funding the Patrician schools in India, Kenya, Ghana and Papua New Guinea. On Friday we had a Mufti Day to raise funds for the Delany Foundation. Thank you for your support. Donations can still be made through the Qkr! App.

Father’s Day Mass
On Friday 5 September, we will celebrate our fathers and father figures with a combined Mass with Nagle College at St Patrick’s Church, Blacktown. We invite all fathers, grandfathers, and father figures to join us, along with your sons, for Mass at 9:00am at St Patrick’s Church: 51-59 Allawah St, Blacktown. To register your attendance, please complete this form by Wednesday 3 September.

School-Based Sacramental Program
On Monday night we celebrated the Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation of 11 Patrician Brothers’ students at St Patrick’s Church, Blacktown.  Father Wim Hoekstra presided over the Mass, joined by Deacon John Cinya, and Deacon Adrian Gomez. The boys were supported by their families and College staff as they received their Catholic Sacraments of Initiation. We wish to express our gratitude to the students and their families for trusting us to guide them through their preparation.  We wish to thank Father Wim, and the Mary Queen of the Family Parish team, for welcoming the students and their families into the Parish.

If you would like your son to receive any of the Sacraments of Initiation through the School-Based Sacramental Program in 2026, please contact Mr Greg Beacroft [ gbeacroft@parra.catholic.edu.au ] to express interest. Please indicate the name(s) of the students you would like to register, and the Sacraments you would like them to receive.

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Year 11 Reflection Day
Last Wednesday our Year 11 students participated in their Reflection Day.  The day centred on this year’s College theme: Let Your Light Shine. The students were guided through a reflection on their transition into Year 12, their spiritual journey towards adulthood, and their role as leaders and “guardians of the culture” in a Catholic Patrician College community.

We extend our gratitude to the students for their whole-hearted participation.  We thank Miss Ellen Lombo (Faith in Action Team Leader), Mr Dominic Cullen (Year 11 Student Formation Leader), Mr James Bunoza (Assistant Year 11 Student Formation Leader) and the Year 11 Homeroom Teachers, for facilitating the day’s activities and guiding the students.  We also thank Ms Madlin Aboelsaad and the Administrative Staff for providing our lunch; and we thank our Year 12 leaders, Zackary Armitage and Joshua Jurgeit, for presenting a session on student leadership, its joys, and its challenges.

Staff Spirituality Day
Last Friday our College staff gathered to celebrate our Staff Spirituality Day.  Linked to the College Theme of “Let Your Light Shine”, our staff focused on encountering the transcendent - God moments.  The first part of the day was spent engaging with the wider community and with the works of Catholic service and justice agencies.  Some staff members went out to work in schools for students with disabilities, aged care facilities, local parishes, or Catholic agencies.  Others donated blood, or knitted scarves for St Vincent de Paul, while the remainder of the staff participated in a workshop run by Catholic Mission about how we, as Catholics, are called to respond to global poverty and injustice.

The staff then returned to the College to share in reflection on their experiences, and to experience God’s grace in a liturgy which was held in the College Chapel.

We give thanks to the following organisations for hosting our staff and allowing us to be of service:

• Catholic Mission Australia
• Jesuit Refugee Services, Parramatta
• Jesuit Social Services, Emerton
• Our Lady of Lourdes Parish at Baulkham Hills
• Red Cross Lifeblood
• Southern Cross Care, Plumpton Village
• St Lucy’s School for Students with Disabilities at Wahroonga
• Uniting Care - Blacktown, Westmead, and Emu Plains

Anthony Pope
Acting Religious Education Coordinator

Dean of Knowledge Management and Analytics

In the next few weeks, Year 12 will complete their thirteen years of secondary education with much celebration and fanfare. After that reality of HSC Examinations kicks in, it can be a stressful time for the students and their families. Although the HSC is not the only way to get where the boys want to go, it can seem like the only way for them at this moment.

NESA has a great page of information for parents and carers (https://education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/students/stay-healthy-hsc/resources/tips-to-support-your-kids) on how to help the boys navigate this stressful time with practical tips and knowledge.
                                      As always, we are here to help and are happy to answer any questions you or your sons have.

Mark Robinson
Dean of Knowledge Management and Analytics

Pathways and Partnership Update

National Skills Week 2025
August 25 - 31

National Skills Week was founded on four key areas of focus - notably to dispel the negative perceptions that surround vocational education and training (VET), highlight its diversity, the career pathways, and the success stories that emanate from VET, plus bring focus to emerging skills needs, and industry trends.

This year’s theme is designed to inspire people to look at ALL the options when deciding what they choose to study and their career.

Here at Patrician Brothers’ College, Blacktown we are very privileged to offer our students a wide variety of VET subjects taught by fantastic staff who go above and beyond to support our students in working towards gaining a qualification.

2025 saw the exciting introduction of early commencement of VET in Year 9, with students studying Hospitality and Business Services. Additionally, we also have some students studying a VET course externally at TAFE in areas such as Electrotechnology and Health Services Assistance.

For our Year 12 students planning their post school pathways, many are considering studying a VET course, whether through an apprenticeship, traineeship or full time study at TAFE.

At the launch of National Skills Week in NSW, Steve Whan, Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education said:

“For young people exploring their future, or for anyone looking to retrain or upskill, National Skills Week is a reminder that vocational education can lead to secure, rewarding, and meaningful careers.”

This National Skills Week, we hope that our students studying VET courses here at the College, as well as those planning VET study in the future, see the incredible value of VET in our country.

Marie Lane
Pathways and Partnerships Leader

Resource Centre Update

Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee
On Wednesday 20 August a few students from Year 7 and 8 competed in the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee, an online spelling bee powered by Kids News in partnership with the Australian Government.

Students were asked to spell 30 random words using their laptops and were scored based on correct answers and time it took to spell the word.

We would like to congratulate the following students for their participation;

An extra special congratulations to Idhant Vedula (Year 7) and Adhrit Anjay (Year 8) who had the best overall score in their respective grades.

Idhant Vedula scored high enough to move on to the State Championship round, which will be held the first week of September. We wish him the best of luck.

Book Week at Patrician Brothers’ Blacktown
In Week 5 the Resource Centre celebrated Book Week.

This year's theme was Book an Adventure, encouraging students to open a book and partake in endless adventures that can be found in the world of fiction and non-fiction.

We celebrated with a range of bookish displays active student borrowing, helping students find an adventure that they would enjoy.

Thank you to all who participated.

Short Story Competition
As a part of our Book Week celebrations, the Resource Centre held a short story competition to encourage students to find some of their own adventures. There were multiple entries but there could only be one winner.

Congratulations to Jeziah Fauula-Vaa of Year 11 who secured first place with his story The Shepherd and the Soldier.

 Second place was awarded to Michael Tofu-Tau, also of Year 11, with his story titled The Laurel and the Flame - Ducibus

 And third place was awarded to Parv Patel of Year 8 with his story STARBOY: Arc I - The Kepler's Star, which even came with its own amazing cover art.

Congratulations to all who participated, the calibre of stories received was tremendous and every story was personally unique.

A snippet of our winning story has been included below;

Hadi then left the safety of his hospitable abode and approached the soldier. The American was slouched over and clearly limping. His gun holstered to his vest and his eyes spoke volumes — he was a man whose pain and scars were worth the promise ingrained onto his stripes and stars patch. Democracy as they so claim.

The closer the American approached, the bigger he appeared. His boots were covered in sand and dust, the bags under his eyes telling stories of the unknown, and his face was covered in scars and soot. He was the epitome of everything the enemy was… But to Hadi? He was also the definition of a man who was lost, in need of help, and in need of aid.

“No matter the flag we vow to serve or the masters we choose to obey,
My enemy is also my brother.”

Beth Head
Senior School Assistant - Resource Centre

Year 7 Food Technology

Fruit in a Cup
Fruit Ninjas Assemble: Year 7’s First Slice of Success!

This week, the Year 7 boys traded their schoolbooks for chopping boards in their first Food Technology mission: the legendary Fruit in a Cup!

The learning intention? To show off safe, competent knife skills—a key WHS focus—while working in teams to run their very own “mini kitchens”. Armed with apples, strawberries, grapes, watermelon, mandarins, and oranges, they set to work slicing, dicing, and occasionally… improvising.

There was one unforgettable moment: “Mrs Fedele, Miss Chef… Is that how you julienne a watermelon?” For the record—no, it’s not, and no, we don’t julienne watermelons!

Each team plated up a colourful cup of fruit while also tackling the big leagues of kitchen life: washing, wiping, and sterilising like pros (well… most of the time!). A few still need a bit more home practice in the “wipe as you go” department—parents, here’s your chance to enlist them as official household dish ninjas.

With teamwork sharpened and fingers still intact, Year 7 is ready to slice into even more adventurous recipes next!

Daniela Fedele
Food/Agriculture and Digital Technologies Teacher

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HSC Major Works Exhibition

On Thursday 21 August our College celebrated the HSC major works, featuring outstanding creations from students in Industrial Technology-Timber, Photography, Visual Arts, and Music. The Year 12 students poured their hearts into crafting original and imaginative pieces over two years. 

The event was a resounding hit, earning enthusiastic praise from parents and teachers. Attendees were treated to a memorable showcase of captivating music, striking photography, inspiring art and clever timber constructions.

Year 11 Visual Arts and Photography students were asked to present some of their work and experience what is involved when exhibiting for an audience.

A heartfelt congratulations to all Year 12 students, and immense gratitude to the teachers and parents whose unwavering support helped make this achievement possible.

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PATHE Pasifika Cultural Evening

Last Friday, a group of our talented Pasifika students had the incredible opportunity to perform at Western Sydney University, invited by the Pasifika Achievement To Higher Education (PATHE) team.

The event was a vibrant celebration of Pasifika voices, culture, and excellence — and our students absolutely shone! Their powerful performance was one of the night’s highlights, showcasing pride, unity, and passion.

We’re also proud of our very own Mr Alan Niulesa, who delivered an inspiring keynote address, sharing his journey through university and into education. His words left a lasting impact on students, families, and staff alike.

A special thank you to Mr Niulesa, Ms Solo, Ms Levi, Ms Ale and Mr Lavemai, who gave up countless lunchtimes and afternoons to support the boys in preparing for the big day. Your dedication is deeply appreciated.

Our partnership with the PATHE program continues to be a vital part of our mission to support Pasifika students in exploring and achieving success in higher education. We look forward to continuing this journey together.

Year 7 Camp

Our Year 7 students had an unforgettable time at camp this year. From navigating the waters in canoeing, to taking aim in thrilling archery tag games, and mastering the art of making damper over the coals, they did it all!

Despite some challenging weather, the boys showed incredible spirit, enjoying indoor games just as much as the outdoor adventures. This camp was the perfect chance to build new friendships, work as a team, and create lasting memories. We’re so proud of their enthusiasm and camaraderie.

A big thank you to Mr Beacroft, Mrs Melkei, Mrs Te Ariki, Miss El-Naboulsi, Mr Eisenhuth, Mr Agius, Mr Zahra, Miss Chadid, Miss Wehbe, Mr Manu and Mr Mamo for making the experience worth while for the boys.

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Merit Awards

Sports Report

PDSSSC Chess

On Tuesday 26 August students from the College participated in PDSSSC Chess at St. John XXIII in Stanhope, where they tested their skills and competed against students from other schools. We had one Year 7 team, two Year 8 teams, one Year 9 team and two Year 11 Teams competing throughout the day.

Our teams were very excited to compete and test their skills. Students competed in teams of 3, all opposing the same challenger school, each team played seven rounds in a Swedish style bracket competition. The competition was broken up into three sections: Years 7 and 8, Years 9 and 10 and Years 11 and 12.

The boys played four matches each before the mid-day break. At this point our Year 8 Team 1 was ranked first in the 7-8 bracket and Year 11 Team 2 was ranked third overall for the 11-12 bracket.

After the break, the teams knuckled down and began to play the games that would ultimatley decide their final rankings in the tournament. Each team was vying for top position but also overall scores as the top team from each year group would receive a medal.

Our Year 8’s were confident against their opponents while our Year 11’s faced a tough match - against ourselves. Our Year 11 Team 1 had made a comeback and was now neck-and-neck with Year 11 Team 2, meeting each other in the final round. After a quick team meeting they decided it was may the best man win. Team 1 refused to let Team 2 take the top place without a fight, and both teams played their hardest. In the end Team 2 came out on top.

At the conclusion of the seventh round, the winners for each year group were announced. Year 8 Team 1 claimed first place for the Year 8 teams and Year 11 Team 2 won first place for the Year 11 teams - only 1 point shy of the top Year 12 Team. Overall our Year 8 Team 1 ranked 1st in the 7-8 bracket and Year 11 Team 2 retained overall third place in the 11-12 bracket, with Year 11 team 1 placing equal sixth.

Congratulations to: Year 8 Team 1- Osborn Chen, Alex Thuaux, Adhrit Anjay and the Year 11 Team 2 - Jure Bjelis, Francesco Tabone and Enrico Razon. Congratulations also to all our students who participated in the day, it was an excellent competition and Patrician Brothers’ showed amazing sportsmanship across the board. 

NRL Schoolboy Cup Report

Semi Final

Patrician Brothers' Blacktown
vs
Endeavour Sports High School

30 - 16

On a very windy day at Campbelltown, the two teams that played in last year’s grand final met one game earlier, in the semi-final. Blacktown started the match strongly, controlling field position, but were unable to capitalise on their opportunities. Endeavour then made a strong run downfield and scored the first try, taking a 4–0 lead.

The strong wind worked in Blacktown’s favour, and when Endeavour made an error from a downfield kick, Riley Davis scored from the scrum to level the score at 4–4. From the kickoff, Blacktown struggled to control the ball in the tough conditions. However, from the attacking scrum that followed, Endeavour made another mistake. Cameron Bamblett scooped up the loose ball and ran 90 metres to score, giving Blacktown an 8–4 lead at halftime.

In the second half, great ball movement by Blacktown saw Cameron Bamblett, Riley Davis, and Andres Johansson score tries in quick succession, pushing the score out to a comfortable 26–4. Endeavour responded with two late tries, but Blacktown regained momentum and sealed the victory with a final try to Cobie McCloskey as the siren sounded.

This result means Blacktown has now qualified for the NSW State Final six times in the last seven years, with championship wins in 2018, 2020, and 2024. The team is now aiming to claim back-to-back NSW Titles for the first time.

The grand final will be played at Campbelltown Stadium on Thursday 4 September, at 1:00 pm against Hunter Sports High, who have shown great improvement throughout the competition and secured a convincing semi-final win.

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State Oz Tag
Champions of Champions

Our Intermediate Boys team have emerged victorious at the state OzTag Champions of Champions competition held in Tuggerah! The boys clinched the grand final with an impressive 6-2 win against St Edwards College. Throughout the tournament, they displayed excellent skill, strong teamwork, and determination—earning high praise from both staff and referees for their outstanding sporting ability.

Meanwhile, our Junior team fought valiantly in their quarter-final match against Illawarra Sports High School but narrowly missed out, finishing with a close 2-1 scoreline. The Junior team showed remarkable courage and fitness, proving that they can match the intensity with the best schools in the state.

We’re incredibly proud of both teams for their hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the competition!

Intermediate Coach - Chelsea Te Ariki
Junior Coach - James Bunoza