MSPC Newsletter - Term 3, Week 8, 11th September

Principal

Assistant Principal - Mission

Big Day Out                              

As promised in my last Newsletter article here are some shots of the costumes, stalls and activities from Big Day Out held on Thursday 28^th August.

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Year 8 Reflection Day               

Some shots of the Year 8 students engaged in their Reflection Day in the Gilbey Hall on Friday 29^th August.

Lisieux House Assembly

The feast of Lisieux House’s patron, St Therese of Lisieux, was celebrated at today’s College Assembly. It was fitting that at this assembly the Year 11 student leadership team for Term 4 2025/2026 was announced to the whole College community. We wish them well as they take the ‘reins’ of the student body!

GARAGE SALE at College Car Park  in Week 10On Tuesday 23/9 and Wednesday 24/9 from 3.30 - 5.30pm bigger desks, chairs and small tables will be on salefor $5 each. Pay and take the item/s home. Enquiries: Miss McShane

    Mary-Anne McShane
    Assistant Principal: Mission

Pastoral Care

The Leadership Journey at Mount St Patrick College

It is a very exciting time of the year here at Mount St Patrick College as we search for our 2026 College and House Captains. This is a moment when our senior students step up and present the very best versions of themselves, addressing the whole College community with speeches that share their vision, passion, and commitment to serving others. These speeches are more than just words—they are an opportunity for students to demonstrate the qualities of courage, integrity, and service that define true leadership.

At Mount St Patrick College, we believe that leadership is not defined by a badge, but by the way we choose to serve and support others. True leadership begins long before students reach senior years—it starts the moment they step into our College community.

Leadership is shown in the student who puts their hand up to help, who encourages a peer on the sports field, who contributes positively in class, or who participates wholeheartedly in House events. These small acts of service form the foundation of a lifelong leadership journey.

Mother Teresa, one of the world’s greatest servant leaders, reminds us:

“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”

This is the essence of servant leadership—the model we encourage at Mount St Patrick College. It is about leading from the front when needed, but also walking beside others with compassion, humility, and courage.

For our students, this means that leadership is not something that begins in Year 11 with formal roles such as College Captains or House Leaders. Instead, it is a daily choice to be a role model, to embody our College values, and to create a culture where everyone feels supported and inspired.

As a Catholic community, we are proud to nurture leaders who live with faith, integrity, and a spirit of service. We encourage every student to embrace opportunities—big or small—to try their hand at leading, supporting, and uplifting others. In doing so, they not only grow into leaders of tomorrow, but also into the best versions of themselves today.

We congratulate all the brave students who have stepped forward as candidates for College and House Captaincy in 2026. Your courage, dedication, and willingness to serve are already marks of true leadership.

Good luck to all our candidates!

    Lara Thompson
    Leader of Pastoral Care

Curriculum

It is a significant moment for Year 12 as they enter their final three weeks of lessons at the College. Their journey will be honoured at the Graduation Assembly, where we will recognise the diverse accomplishments of our senior students. These include excellence in academics, leadership, community service, performing arts, college spirit, religious contribution, and sporting achievement.

We congratulate Year 12 on the commitment they have shown and encourage them to sustain their focus during this vital period. The weeks ahead provide an important opportunity to consolidate learning, refine skills, and deepen understanding of the texts, concepts and content studied throughout the course. We encourage students to maintain consistent study routines by engaging with their teachers, practising past exam questions under exam-style conditions, attending classes and tutorials, and seeking feedback to guide their revision.

While Year 12 prepares for the HSC, Term 3 is also a busy term for all year groups. It is essential that students are organised and prepared for their upcoming assessments. To support this, students should:

• check the Assessment Google Calendar regularly for key dates
• carefully read the assessment notification on the MSPC Assessment Portal (accessible via school login and password)
• review any additional instructions or resources provided by their teachers in Google Classroom
  

When preparing for assessments, students are also encouraged to:

• establish a quiet study space at home to focus effectively
• practise completing tasks under timed conditions where applicable
• keep a secure copy of their work (for example, by photographing or scanning responses) saved to Google Drive
  

If students are uncertain about any aspect of an assessment or their learning, they are encouraged to take initiative and seek clarification from their classroom teacher or the relevant Leader of Learning.

We extend our best wishes to all students as they continue their learning journey and remind them to remain focused, motivated and confident in their abilities.

A summary of the Assessment Policy can be found on the front page of the Assessment Portal via the MSPC Moodle Page. Information Handbooks are on the Portal. 

Illness / Absence - Assessments: Years 7, 8 and 9

If a student is sick and unable to complete an assessment on the due date, Years 7, 8 and 9 (see below for Year 9 Accelerated) require an email or a letter from a parent / carer to the class teacher, detailing the student’s circumstances for non-completion of an assessment task. 

Illness / Absence - Assessments: Year 9 Accelerated and Year 10 and Year 10 Accelerated and Year 11.

For Year 9 Accelerated and Years 10 and 11, a medical practitioner or pharmacist is required to complete the MSPC Assessment Variation Illness Form. A copy of this document can be found on the student’s year page of the Assessment Portal. Important: Year 9 Accelerated and Year 10 - a family event or holiday will not be accepted as a reason for absence and therefore an extension or exemption will not be granted. See Year 11 Accelerated (HSC) requirements below.

Year 11 Accelerated and Year 12 students require a Medical Practitioner to complete the MSPC Assessment Variation Illness Form. A copy of this document can be found on the student’s year page of the Assessment Portal.  Important: a family event or holiday will not be accepted as a reason for absence and therefore an extension or exemption will not be granted.

Illness Procedure - Years 10 Accelerated, 11 and 12: If student is sick on the day of the assessment:

1. Phone the Front Office to advise of illness (02) 6672 2340
2. Student to email Mrs Joanne McDonald to advise of illness and to organise a catch up session during the assessment block.
3. Year 11 Accelerated and Year 12 require a Medical Practitioner to complete the Mount St Patrick Assessment Variation Illness Application Form. This can be accessed on the Year 12 page on the Assessment Portal.

    Jo McDonald
    Leader o Curriculum

Faculty News

ENGLISH NEWS

MSPC Students Shine in Friendly Diocesan Debating Competition

On Thursday 4th September, twelve Mt St Patrick College students from Years 7–10 travelled to St Mary’s Catholic College, Casino, to participate in the Inter-School Debating Competition. Across the day, teams engaged in three rounds of prepared and impromptu debates, exploring topics such as “The tongue is a human’s most dangerous weapon,” “AI is a threat to humanity,” and “Fast food companies should be held accountable for the environmental impact of their supply chain.”

While the day was ultimately non-competitive, with no overall victors, each team was highly successful within their divisions, and represented MSPC with pride and fantastic sportsmanship. 

Congratulations to the following debaters for their spectacular efforts:

Year 7:  Belle Dowling, Luke Stovold, Annabel Moran

Year 8:  Indi Rawson, Eliza Sonter, Milly Simpson

Year 9:  Kahfeira Close, Sophia Drew, Scarlett Mills

Year 10:  Yasmin Van Rosi, Rosaria Stewart Walker, Alexandria Salmon

The teams were accompanied and supported on the day by their Debating Coach, Mrs Milly Hay, herself a former MSPC champion debater, as well as our long-serving (and now retired) Debating Coordinator, Mr Paddy Bailey. His expertise (and jar of lollies!) were greatly appreciated!

It was a rewarding day of learning and growth, and MSPC looks forward to building on this experience as we prepare for the official Diocesan Competition next year.

    Katie Pinkstone
   Leader of Learning:  English

FROM THE SPORTS DESK

DIOCESAN ATHLETICS
It was an early start for the 40 athletes, accompanied by Mr Tim Whitney, Mr Rick Van Den Driest, Mrs Angela Finkel and Sarah Bowers, who attended the Diocese of Lismore Secondary Athletics Carnival in Coffs Harbour on Tuesday 2nd September.

Students participated with enthusiasm in the glorious conditions in new singlets!  Pleasingly, Mt St Patrick College finished sixth overall, with Orlando Wood winning Under 13 Boys Age Champion and Leah Hegedus-Venegas runner-up Under 12 Girls Age Champion.

Athletes finishing first and second in track events and first position in field events are now eligible to attend the NSWCCC Athletics Carnival to be held in Homebush on September 15.  We wish them well!

NRCC VOLLEYBALL

U14 and U16 Girls
Our U14 and U16 girls volleyball teams put on a fantastic display of talent and determination in Ballina last Monday, 8^th September, showcasing skill, teamwork and spirit throughout the day. Both teams proved themselves to be the teams to beat, representing our school with pride.

The U16 girls played exceptionally well, securing 3 wins from their 6 games. Several of their matches were nail-biters, with only a few points separating them from victory. Their consistency, energy and never-give-up attitude were outstanding, and they were unlucky not to finish with even more wins.

The U14 girls had an incredible day, dominating their matches and finishing on top – taking home the gold medal! Their teamwork and determination shone through every game, and they should be very proud of their well-deserved success.

We are super proud of the efforts and sportsmanship shown by both teams. A huge thank you to all the girls for their commitment and positive attitude throughout the day. We can’t wait to see what next year brings!

    Harriet Withers

U14 boys
What a day for the 5 boys who travelled to Ballina in the 14s team! Having one less player all day may have worked in the boys’ favour as they went through every game undefeated and ran in clear winners of their age division. All the boys had a natural talent for the game, despite minimal exposure before the competition and as the day progressed, their skills and teamwork got stronger and stronger. Every boy deserves a special mention for their skill, sportsmanship and tenacity. Well done Isaac Conder, Alex Soares, Elijah Jones, Zac Stuart and Chad Whyte.

U16 boys
The U16s had a fantastic day down at Ballina and remained undefeated for the entire day. Starting off with a bang winning against Xavier CC 21-2, despite the boys playing first up at 8:40 they were able to gel as a group and get a fantastic score. They next came up against Trinity where they won 19-9.  Woodlawn College put up a great fight with MSPC only winning by 2 points, which was largely due to Harlo’s fantastic serving streak. Team captain Isaac Rose was able to keep the team level-headed despite the wins; leading to the next 3 games with similar winning scores.

All around a great day for the boys who were super keen to play and they played amazingly.

  Sarah Bowers

NSW U16 BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS
This is what hard work, training and dedication to a cause can result in. Two of our High Performance Basketball Academy teams recently played in the Basketball NSW U16 Regional Schools tournament in Coffs Harbour. Both the boys and girls teams played a series of tough round robin games to progress to the semi finals.

Showing the results of many training sessions both teams played with a structured man to man defence which caused many turnovers which they managed to turn into points.

At the end of the day both teams were victorious which now qualified them to attend the State Finals to be held in Penrith on September 16^th and 17^th, 2025.

Watch this space for the results as we fly to Penrith and display our talent at the next level. Go well teams!

MSPC BASKETBALL ACADEMY

The MSPC Basketball Academy continues to grow, and we are excited to share some important updates.

Over the past year, there has been increasing interest in creating a structured High Performance program, and we are pleased to announce that the Academy will now offer two clear pathways to support both developing and elite-level athletes.

MSPC Basketball Academy Pathways

1. Development Squad

For students aiming to build their foundational skills, understanding of key Basketball concepts and grow as basketball players. This is for students who love basketball and are wishing to develop their skills in the game.

• Open to all students.
• Train twice a week.
  
• Cost: $200 per term (covers skills, strength and conditioning coaching, and resources.)
  
• Opportunities to play at NRCC level and local level (details currently being finalised.)
  
• Sign up here: Development Squad Registration
  

2. High Performance Squad

For students successfully selected to represent the College at an elite level and progress in Basketball IQ, running and implementing plays.

• Trials held in Term 4, 2025 for Boys’ and Girls’ Years 9/10 intake (for the 2026 season).
• Trials held in Term 4, 2025 for Year 8 Boys + Girls wishing to trial in Term 1.

NB: Selection will be based on coaches’ discretion for athletes showing potential for the 2026 season. A re-selection process will occur with the incoming Year 7 cohort.

• Trials held in Term 1, 2026 for Boys’ and Girls’ Years 7 intake + year 8.
  
• Successful athletes will compete as part of the MSPC High Performance Team.
  
• Weekly training: Wednesday mornings, 7:00am.
  
• Cost: $200 per term (covers all competitions, accommodation, transport, and uniforms).
  
• Competitions include:
  
  • Diocesan Championships (x2)
    
  • Basketball NSW Schools Championships
    
  • Australian All Schools Nationals
    
• Register for trials here: High Performance Squad Trials
  

This new structure ensures that every student who wants to be part of basketball at MSPC has an opportunity. Whether they are beginning their development journey or competing at the highest levels.

We encourage all interested students to sign up for Term 4 and begin preparing for the 2026 season.

If you have any questions about the Academy, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

    Warm regards,
    Ms Lauren Frankham
    Basketball Director

NRCC TOUCH FOOTBALL

Junior Girls
A busy and long day down in Grafton for the U15 girls Touch team with 5 long 20 minute games the girls were rightfully tired by the end of the day. Despite the limited time for training the girls fought hard against some very seasoned touch players ending the day with 2 wins and 3 loses. The team comprised with League Tag, Union and Rugby. The girls played with high spirits for the entire day while scoring tries against difficult teams. All the girls should be immensely proud of the effort and heart they gave throughout the day!

Junior Boys
A big day in Grafton saw our 15 boys play 5 games of touch at the NRCC event. The team started of strong with a good win against Trinity and then a tight loss to eventual winners Xavier. Their next 2 games proved tough versus a very dominant Woodlawn and classy McAuley team. In true Patties spirit, the boys didn’t give up and rounded out the day with a tight win versus St Josephs. The team should be proud of their effort with every player contributing. Special mention to Lucas Bliss who led with spirit all day showing skill and determination, even when the chips were down!

Open Girls
What a fantastic outing for the Open Girls in Grafton. With a team of highly talented female athletes drawing from experience in touch football, union and league, MSPC was always going to be a tough team to beat. Over the course of 5 matches the girls displayed their dominance among the rest of the NRCC teams and finished the day undefeated. At one point in the day the girls had only conceded 3 tries against them in as many games, whilst scoring 24 tries across the carnival! Their communication and camaraderie was their greatest asset on the day. It was a pleasure to watch them lift the shield aloft at the end of the day as Open Champions.

Open Boys
The Open Boys Touch team competed with a lot of heart at the annual NRCC Gala Day. With limited preparation the team was able to be competitive in all games. Finishing the day with two wins and three loses. The team was made up of mostly Yr 10 and 11 students, which is an encouraging thought for the next few years to come.

All the boys should be proud of their efforts when representing the college.

CRICKET SELECTION

Sophie Buckley from Year 10 has been named in the Northern Stars Country Championships team to play a week long Championship at Woolgoolga late in September. Sophie has long been part of several representative cricket teams and, as a 15 year old turning 16 in December, to be named in a representative squad to play in an Under 19 Championship it is certain that she has impressed and selectors are looking at her as a long term prospect with future leadership roles in women's cricket. We wish Sophie the best of luck in her upcoming Championships.

HOCKEY FINALS SUCCESS

It’s Grand final season for many sports and I have recently been made aware of some outstanding hockey success by a group of our students.

On Friday 29th August playing for Kingscliff Lillian Corby, Kiani Byrnes, Ulani Uhlmann, Johanna Uhlmann, Mia Harvey and Matilda Stuart took out their premiership in the Gold Coast Girls Junior Hockey Championship. Vann O’Keefe playing for Labrador took out his 4th straight premiership trophy in the Open Male division. Congratulations to all involved.

UPCOMING:

• Titans 9’s 14 & 16 Rugby League Tuesday 16th September
• Berg Shield cricket Thursday 18^th September

Term 4

• Dio Volleyball Friday 24th October
• Lord Taverners Cricket &/8 , 91/10 Boys 7-11 Girls Cricket Tuesday 28th October
• School girls League Challenge 14/16 Wednesday 5th November
• Dio Junior Water Polo Thursday 6th November
• Dio North Golf Monday 10th November
• Dio Senior Water Polo Thursday 13th November

    Tim Whitney
    Sports Co-ordiantor

College News

2025 HOUSE CO-CAPTAINS LAST WORDS......

Assisi

To our MSPC and Assisi community, thank you for an amazing year together! We have loved getting to know each of you, and having the opportunity to grow as your captains. Thank you for your hard work and house spirit throughout the year, we are truly appreciative. 

Thank you for choosing us as your 2025 captains, we are so grateful to have been your captains this year, we have loved every minute of it.

Lots of love,
Claudia, Hunter, and Sid (Keep being the best house)

Doyle

To our Doyle house!

We have really loved getting to know all of you and forming friendships with you throughout our captaincy. Thank you for choosing us to be your leaders for 2025!!  Your house spirit and participation throughout the year has been amazing! We are so grateful to all of you for making our last year at highschool so special.

#Doylefam4ever #Doylings #Giddyup!!

Lots of love,
Your 2025 captains
Payten, Jack, and Fin

Ignatius

Thank you MSPC and our amazing Ignatius house, we have loved getting to know all of you and working together to achieve our goals. We’ve had a great year full of wins, losses, and laughs alongside all of you. Thank you for allowing us to lead you this year. We have really loved every minute of it. A massive thank you to our wonderful teachers who put up with us, even when half the house wears the wrong uniform, We greatly appreciate your support. We will miss you guys. Keep being amazing!

Lots of love,
Ignatius Captains 2025
Ava, Amali, and Oscar

Lisieux

To our Lisieux people and the MSPC community, no words could thank you all enough for the joy, satisfaction and privilege it has been to be your house captains for 2025. Thank you for your drive, passion and commitment over not only this year but in previous years. Thank you for choosing us to be your leaders. We couldn't have asked for a better house colour, it has been our absolute pleasure to grow and form friendships with you all and lead you through 2025. We will miss you guys!

Lots of love and appreciation,
Red Army Captains 2025
Ben, Ella and Rhys :)

Loreto

On behalf of Loreto house, we’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone for making this year unforgettable and for proudly spreading Blue Pride everywhere we went. From carnivals, special events and classwork we are so proud of the spirit members of Loreto house have contributed. A special thank you goes to our amazing house leader, Crippsy, for always backing us and helping our Loreto family grow together. We hope our blue spirit continues on!

With Heart and Mind - Bree, Norm and Petros

Lucan

Thank you Lucan and the wider MSPC community for an incredible year and lots of memories. We feel truly privileged to have served as your Lucan house captains for 2025. From Carnivals to events, every moment has been filled with energy, spirit and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

A heartfelt thank you to Ms Waters for her unwavering support and dedication to the Lucan Team, your guidance and encouragement have meant so much to us and helped make this year truly special.

We are grateful for the experiences we’ve shared and the Lucan family we’ve had the joy of guiding.

Lots of Love,
Lucan House Captains 2025
Lucy, Estella, and Jaxon

Nagle

Thank you to both our Nagle and MSPC community, it’s been an absolute pleasure and privilege to be able to be your 2025 captains. We appreciate the dedication and participation you showed in every event from the Louise Shields Shield to the Cross Country. Although the house trophy may not be going to us and we may or may not receive the wooden spoon, the only way from here is up.

Thank you so much for such a fun year, we love and appreciate you, please do better than 8th next year we beg you!

Lots of love,
Harper, Isabelle and Freda

Romero

Thank you MSPC and Romero house for your ongoing love and support over the years. We are so proud of how we’ve grown together and supported one another and have loved being your co-captains in 2025. MSPC, thank you for your passion and resilience over the years. We’ve shared unforgettable moments and built memories that will last a lifetime.

See yous later ay. It’s been real its been fun it hasnt been real fun. Drop an R in our memory make me proud trumpet xx.

Love you,
Sam, Tex and Isabelle

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