Click the YouTube link below for the latest Homeroom Edition of SECTV, hosted by Cohen Crook and Abhishek Thomas.     [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5iaNzu3t4Y[/embed]

Report from 23 November 2023 On 23 November 2023, students took part in the Clean4Shore program in and around Erina Bay and Erina Creek, removing litter from the foreshores.  The weather was overcast with showers during the day but this didn't hinder our students in any way.  See the report below for a full breakdown of litter collected. Clean4Shore Report  

Year 10 Camp Report, Written by William Lynch Up before first light and down after dark. The first day had us on our toes and it was the first taste of our amazing camp to Jindabyne. The bus trip was long, and we had our moments, but we got through it and arrived at camp. We were introduced to our camp leaders and our teachers were as enthusiastic as ever. We picked out our bunks and we went down to the oval for a game of football before heading to our first meal. The food was amazing during the camp and I’m sure we can all agree that the kitchen staff made our camp that extra bit more enjoyable. The food was tasty and warm, and it hit the spot. A few injuries came with the first day and we learned that playing tip in the dark was not the greatest of  ideas. The next three days would encompass activities that would test our boundaries and let us reach our limits whether that be from an 18km hike up Mt Kosciuszko or getting hit in the back of the head by a snowball from Mr Ellis. There were some challenges, but the hike was so much fun, and our hard work was rewarded with incredible panoramic views over the ranges. After that, we all needed a good night's sleep. We all were falling asleep in our chairs and making fun of each other as the next person crashed,  we all slept well that night. Big shout out to the teachers who put up with us for during the long day. Next came the bike riding, with all the gear strapped on and our bags packed. The instructors were so helpful, and they really made the day special. From the sharp berms to the steep hills, the pump track to the flow. There were plenty of tracks for us to learn and show off our skills although, we had our fair share of incidents. The highlight of the day had to be Mr Rozario getting overly competitive in a pump track race and falling head over handlebars to try and get a win. Unfortunately, the shorts did not survive the fall. Finally, we had raft building and abseiling. In rotations, two groups alternated. One session involved using materials to build a suitable raft for your team to paddle out into the lake and back. Then we had abseiling, which tested our limits and showed us who feared heights. During the camp we spent two nights in tents, one at Thredbo diggings, one at Island Bend, and two in cabins at Bungarra. These different settings offered different challenges and rewards, ranging from the tv and foosball tables at the cabins, to the river at Thredbo Diggings. A lot of us went for a swim in the freezing river and Mr Gentle embraced the cold and went for a session freestyle. We dried ourselves, went and made our own dinner and all gathered around our group's campfire and enjoyed the delicious cookies. I must admit they were pretty good. At the end of the camp, we all told our favourite moments and had a great laugh, and we finally had our last sleep in Jindabyne. The next day we said our goodbyes and were back on the bus to school. Thank you to all the teachers who came on the trip and made the journey so much more enjoyable. I’d also like to mention all the camp staff who were on-site with us for the week. Students have been sent a link to download the images taken [smallgallery fooid="48660"]

Some fantastic, fun, relevant excursions and incursions to finish the year! Year 7 PDHPE Year 7 PDHPE experienced different fundamental skills such as running, striking with their hands, feet and bats. They learned to recognise the 5 components of health and the factors that affect them. The Safe and Sound unit covers all sorts of risks and how to minimise them, from technology, drugs, surf safety to how to stay safe in the sun. To enhance this knowledge, a guest speaker from the Melanoma Institute came and spoke to the boys about how to stay safer in the sun. They also participated in the one day Water Safety excursion to Gosford pool where they learned how to save themselves and others in different aquatic scenarios.   Year 8 PDHPE Students in Year 8 practised their basketball skills and took on AFL with gusto and learned that it probably originated from an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander game called Marngrook.  In theory lessons they learned strategies to cope with and stop bullying. To complement this unit, they watched the Brainstorm production ‘The Flipside’ which is a thought provoking live performance that challenges students to reflect on cyberbullying, values and the responsible use of technology. They also continued to experience stress management techniques and wellbeing skills. Year 9 PDHPE Year 9 also watched the Brainstorm production ‘The Flipside’ to supplement the ‘Challenging Stereotypes unit. The prac lessons enhanced the theory by increasing awareness of diversity in order to avoid discrimination, harassment and vilification. During Term 3 they experienced many different games that are played by people who are at a disadvantage due to a disability or racism. Some of the activities were blind athletics, seated volleyball, blind soccer and ‘on the knees’ table tennis. They also participated in some traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander games. Year 9 PASS In Year 9 PASS, students learned how to analyse and appraise fad diets or physical activity regimes. They were also encouraged to design their own nutrition plan. In Term 3 they examined the contribution and impact of technology in sport. The 9 PASS classes are fortunate enough to be able to enjoy ‘the best day ever’ (in the words of Mr Powell) a snorkelling, hiking, swimming and beach games day in Bouddi National Park during the last week of school. They were also wonderful ambassadors for our subject by helping the local and school communities by assisting with administration, refereeing and officiating at numerous primary school gala days and swimming carnivals. Year 10 PDHPE Year 10 PDHPE students spent more time learning how to develop and maintain respectful relationships. This was reinforced through the one day Love Bites program facilitated by Coast Shelter. Term 3 saw Year 10 examining the extent and causal factors of road traffic crashes and how to respect others on the road. The boys were fortunate to travel to Sydney to take part in the bStreetsmart forum. This is a hard hitting, realistic view on road safety and the consequences of being reckless. The boys also got to try some experiential activities such as seeing the effects of alcohol through wearing ‘beer’ goggles and trying to hit a target. Real life education tips on what to look for when buying their first car, such as bald tyres, breaking systems, air bags, crumple zones etc. They will finish their year with another fantastic opportunity provided to them in collaboration with Mrs Dignam. They are currently participating in a mock interview with prospective employers from the local community, work experience, Care of Country excursion and many other school and life relevant activities. Mrs Dignam has done so much hard work towards their final weeks of Year 10. No wonder she was awarded Careers Advisor of the Year.   [smallgallery fooid="48823"]   10 PASS Students in Year 10 PASS took on the difficult task of anatomy and physiology and the Body Systems and Energy for Physical Activity. Term 3 saw the students participate in and learn about strategies and techniques that could be used to enhance performance, while in Term 4 they surveyed other Year 10 students to investigate their physical activity and screen time levels. They also got down and dirty at the Raw Challenge at Doyalson. The boys pushed and pulled themselves over, under and through obstacles, walls and water filled trenches, trying to beat the teachers! I think Mrs Elliott might have been one of the winners on the day!   [smallgallery fooid="48866"]   Year 11 Outdoor Recreation VET course students completed their ‘Apply First Aid’ certificate and continued their fun with their 4 day camp. Boys caught the Palm Beach Ferry from Ettalong, did a learn to surf lesson, before paddling kayaks across to The Basin. Boys had to set up tents, cook their own meals and then participate in fishing, hiking and mountain biking. It was an awesome adventure and Mr Summerhayes and Mr Gentle loved leading the boys on this experience. This topped off a great course where they also participated in a hike in Bouddi National Park, kayaking on the Brisbane Water and completing a basic water rescue at Gosford pool. I wish I was one of those students! Year 11 PDHPE In Year 11 PDHPE students continued their investigation into the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems and how they influence body movement and efficiency. Term 3 saw them analyse what health means to individuals, what influences their health and various health promotion initiatives. They also experienced their first 2 hour examination for PDHPE and have just sat their first HSC assessment task. A keen and conscientious group of students who are delightful to teach. Year 11 SLR Year 11 SLR students delved into the roles and responsibilities of a coach, including aspects of coaching sessions such as the psychology needed to deal with athletes. The students also participated in a netball unit and other games and sports. These students know how to have fun and enjoy some robust friendly competition banter during practical lessons Year 12 PDHPE Students finished their course with plenty of time to study. They consolidated their knowledge of the syllabus by attending The Big Day Out for PDHPE in Sydney, which showcased guest speakers from various sports and health organisations. We wish them all the best for their future and hope their HSC results are what they worked for and deserved. Year 12 SLR Year 12 SLR finished their aquatics human movement analysis at Gosford pool. They then had fun trying their hand at golf, archery, badminton and table tennis. They just couldn’t get enough of any sport. Again, thank you to the versatile PDHPE staff for making the boys theory and prac lessons so life relevant and worthwhile.

Year 12, 2024 Manufacturing and Engineering Extension Project Year 12 Manufacturing and Engineering have tackled a small extension project to start their HSC year. Mitchell, a keen fisherman, designed and fabricated a deck for his boat from aluminium, form ply and marine grade carpet. Well done to Mitchell and his fellow classmates Sandor and Jimmy  who also transported his boat to and from school.  

Years 8-12 are responsible for purchasing their own stationery supplies. Stationery may be purchased independently, or parents may prefer to purchase stationery packs online through our supplier COS, please see the link below for stationery lists and information regarding online ordering. https://www.stedwards.nsw.edu.au/curriculum-learning/stationery-requirements-2024/

The day was structured to provide Career Pathway insight and inspiration to Year 8 and 9 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, presented by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members of our community. It was a day filled with meaningful cultural activities, engaging speakers, and informative exhibitions. The day commenced with a Smoking Ceremony led by Tim Selwin. Elizabeth Bailey from CSBB Aboriginal Education was the facilitator for the day and set the stage with an introductory speech, emphasising the purpose of the day and then introduced our special guest speaker David Morgan from the Australian Defence Force, who kindly shared his personal life story of how he overcame adversity to find his pathway into the ADF. Students then had the opportunity to engage in three cultural activities including Art, Weaving and Clapstick making. Following lunch, Elizabeth Bailey introduced the students to the Career Expo encouraging them to interact with the exhibitors, gaining insights into various career pathways. The exhibitors included: Nathan Bramston - Central Coast Local Health (School-based health traineeships) Chris Trew - Bara Barang Celeste Montgomery - Macquarie University (Walanga Muru Unit) Kylie Guisti - IProwd Commercial Administrator Garth Mercy - NSW Police Vanessa McAuley - AFP Kewerlee Wright – TAFE NSW Aboriginal Education and Engagement Coordinator David Morgan - Australian Defence Force This Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Careers Pathways Day was not only a platform for learning and exploration but also a celebration of the rich cultural heritage and potential of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander communities. [foogallery id="48629"]

2024 - College Swimming Carnival Details: Date:  Friday 9 February 2024 Venue:  PLC Woy Woy Travel:  By school bus or parent transport Events: A meeting for students to register for competitive races (only – those wishing to compete for Age Champion or represent the school at Broken Bay) will be held in Week 2 of Term 1 (2024). This will be communicated to all students at the start of the year assembly. Once these races have been raced, students can also race their mates in non-competitive races for each event. First event – 200m Freestyle starts at 8.30am. Students will need to make their own way there for this race as the buses will not arrive in time. The carnival will finish around 2.00pm. Uniform: Boys in Years 7-10 are to wear their College Sports Uniform, they can then change into their House colours once at the pool. Senior boys are able to wear appropriate ‘mufti’ clothing. * All carnival details will be explained to the boys on the first full school day back next year.

John James Congratulations John James in Year 12 for his Achievements in Cricket The accolades keep coming for John this year. After starring for NSWCCC at the NSW All Schools Carnival in Barooga and his subsequent selection in the All-Schools team, John has been recognised for not only his talent, but his general sportsmanship. The coaching staff have nominated John for a prestigious NSWCCC Blue Award. He will be presented with his award at a ceremony at Mount Saint Joseph Catholic College, Milperra on Monday 4 December. Further to this, late last week John attended and was again selected in the NSWCCC Under 18’s team to contest the 2024 NSW All Schools carnival in Maitland. The selection event was run due to the early scheduling of the All-Schools event next year (20-22 February). Coming Up in Sport Term 4, 2023 Week Event Venue Date 8 CSBB Tennis Championships Queenswood Tennis Centre Thursday 30 November 2023 8 Wombat's Cup Water Polo Woy Woy PLC Thursday 30 November 2023 Early 2024 Week Event Venue Date 2 College Swimming Carnival PLC Woy Woy Friday 9 February 2024 3 NSWCCC Softball Selections Stanhope Gardens Tuesday 13 February 2024 4 CSBB Opens and Under 15's Touch Football Doyalson Tuesday 20 February 2024 4 NSW All Schools Opens Cricket Maitland Tuesday 20 and Thursday 22 February 2024 4 NSW All Schools Triathlon Individual Penrith Regatta Centre Wednesday 21 February 2024 4 NSW All Schools Triathlon Teams Penrith Regatta Centre Thursday 22 February 2024 6 NSWCCC Tennis Selection Parramatta Monday 4 March 2024 6 NSWCCC Baseball Selections Castle Glen Tuesday 5 March 2024 7 NSWCCC Golf Selections Belmont Monday 11 March 2024 7 CSBB Swimming Carnival SOPAC Tuesday 12 March 2024   * For all NSWCCC Selections and NSW All Schools Triathlon (Individual) events, students are required to register via the CSNSW website. Click Here   You will need to ‘create account,’ if you do not have one OR ‘login’ using your existing account (NSWCCC or Polding). Once logged in, click on ‘register my child’ and follow the directions to register your son. Please be aware that these initial sports have closing dates to register. ** For the above Broken Bay (CSBB) events, College teams will attend. Information regarding these teams will be in the Daily Notices in Weeks 1 & 2 next year.    

Please see the links below for post school study opportunities.   The hospitality industry is booming and employers need staff urgently! Be one step ahead of the rest. This course will provide you with all the essentials to start working in the hospitality industry, including FEE-FREE Responsible Service of Alcohol and Provide Responsible Gambling Services Click Here for More Information: Certificate III in Hospitality Central Coast     On Demand Courses - Click for Information TAFE NSW  Degrees Tourism, Hospitality and Events  

Please see the links below for the latest traineeships, apprenticeships and positions available for students. Early Childhood Education (Certificate III, Diploma and Trainees) https://centralcoast.applynow.net.au/jobs/CEN3491 These opportunities will suit enthusiastic, positive and team oriented educators and trainees who are capable of delivering quality education and care, and enjoy building sound connections with staff, children and families, becoming a valuable and positive influence within their centre.  Junior Crew Member Bridges, Wharves and Signs https://centralcoast.applynow.net.au/jobs/CEN3484 The Junior Crew Member role is the first of its kind and is a great start for a young kid who isn’t engaged in school and just need a labouring kind of role. This role is a step into learning on the job about how you can learn about how to service or repair bridges, wharves and signs. This is an outdoor work job where every day you will learn from others who will be there to support you.  

Please see below correspondence emailed home in Term 4, 2023.   Year 10 2024 Laptop Rollover - Sent 22 November 2023 2024 Fees Notification - Sent 22 November 2023 Year 10 Iluminate Challenge - Sent 20 November 2023 Year 12 - Permission to Arrive Later or Leave Early - Sent 10 November 2023 Year 12, 2024 Goal Setting - Sent 7 November 2023 Year 10 Camp - Sent 6 November 2023 Year 10 Minimum Standards - Sent 6 November 2023 Read With Me - Sent 2 November 2023 Year 12, 2024 Parent Information Evening Summary - Sent 24 October 2023 Year 8 Camp Medications - Sent 24 October 2023 Year 8 Camp - Sent 24 October 2023 Year 12, 2024 Information Evening Reminder - Sent 9 October 2023 2023 Year 10 Camp Information and Consent Form - Sent 22 September 2023