Last Sunday we commemorated the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord. This event marks Jesus’s bodily ascent into Heaven which took place 40 days after Easter. Significantly, it marked the end of his earthly mission and acts as an assurance that He is now actively interceding for us in Heaven. In teaching about the significance of the Ascension, Pope Francis reminded us that the Ascension does not point to Jesus’ absence, but tells us that he is alive in our midst in a new way. He is no longer in a specific place in the world as he was before the Ascension. He is now in the present in every space and time, close to each one of us. In our life we are never alone: we have this Advocate who awaits us and who defends us. 

It is hard to believe that we are now already into the second half of Term 2 and, very shortly, a range of events which mark the end of Semester One will be upon us. As I have mentioned to Year 12 on a number of occasions, they are now not only in the second half of their HSC year, but they are just six school weeks away from the commencement of their Trial HSC Examinations. Last week also marked the halfway point in the Preliminary Course for all of our Year 11 students who are also preparing to enter into a busy period of assessments in the coming weeks. Significantly, our Year 10 students will commence their HSC Subject Selection process within the next fortnight which includes a parent information evening next Wednesday (11th June), and shortly after, our Year 8 cohort will also commence the process of selecting their own electives to study in Years 9 and 10. As always, we appreciate the partnership between home and school, especially during these busy times of the year. If parents and carers have any questions with regards to any of these events, please do not hesitate to contact the front office and you will be put through to the most appropriate staff member. 

Over the last few weeks, our students in Years 8 and 9 have been participating in their respective reflection days which are held here at the College by both internal and external facilitators. These days aim to meet students where they are at on their own spiritual journey and to highlight the role that God plays in our lives. Among other presenters, we have been pleased to have Fr James remain a constant presence with us, and we remain grateful for the work of Mr O’Neil, Mr Sligar and Miss Neasy who have brought these engaging programs together. Significantly, it has also been really pleasing to see how well each of our cohorts have engaged with these days and have ultimately contributed to their success. 

As you may be aware, this year’s edition of Magdalene Shines will be held on June 19 in the College Hall. This student showcase event was one of the highlights of the 2024 calendar and this year's event is shaping up to be even better. All members of our College community are warmly welcomed to attend and tickets can be purchased through our online ticket portal. 

Wishing you all the best for the week ahead, 

David Cloran

Principal

Calling for Volunteer Supervisors – Support our Year 12 Students During their 2025 Trial Exams

We are currently seeking volunteer supervisors to support our Year 12 students as they prepare for and undertake their 2025 Trial Exams. These roles are vital in ensuring the smooth running of the exams and in helping to create a calm, supportive environment where students can perform at their best.

Trial Exams will take place from 4 August until 18 August.

If you, or someone you know, would like to make a meaningful contribution during this important time in our students' final year, we’d love to hear from you.

Conflict of Interest Guidelines:

To maintain fairness and integrity, please note the following restrictions for prospective supervisors:

• No close relatives of students sitting the HSC at this centre
• No current staff of the College
• No current tutors or coaches of Year 12 students from any school

Alumni and recent school graduates are welcome to return as supervisors (Minimum age: 18 years).

For more information or to express your interest, please contact info@mccdow.catholic.edu.au

Please note that all volunteers must hold a current Working With Children Check (WWCC).

Ideal volunteers will have:

• Clear communication skills
• Patience, reliability, and sensitivity to student needs
• An understanding of the importance of confidentiality

Your support can make a real difference in a student’s success. Thank you for considering this rewarding opportunity!

Year 11 2026 Subject Selection

The process for subject selection for students in Year 11 2026 (currently in Year 10) is now underway. We look forward to welcoming all students and parents/carers to the College next Wednesday evening for the Information Night. This will be supported by a Subject Market and will conclude with an Interview with one of our Leaders of Learning. Students are encouraged to engage in discussions with their class teachers and Leaders of Learning regarding the courses on offer so that their decisions are as informed as possible. 

Year 7-10 Parent/Student/Teacher Interviews

Bookings for our Semester 1 PTS Interviews are now open and will be held on the following dates:

• Years 7 and 10: Interviews will be held on Thursday 26 June between 3:00pm and 8:00pm
• Years 8 and 9: Interviews will be held on Wednesday 2 July between 3:00pm and 8:00pm

For those who have been, or will be unable to attend the interview night which are available, an opportunity to attend catch up interviews will occur on Thursday 3 July between 8:30am and 2:30pm. Students in Years 7-11 are welcome to make appointments during this time. These interviews provide an important opportunity to discuss student progress, reflect on academic achievements, and set goals for the remainder of the year. 

Upcoming Formal Assessments:

Term 2, Week 7

• Year 12 English Advanced Task 3
• Year 12 English Standard Task 3
• Year 12 English Extension 1 Task 2
• Year 12 Food Technology Task 3
• Year 12 SICT Task 2
• Year 12 SOR I Task 2
• Year 11 Physics Task 2
• Year 11 Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation (1 Unit) Task 2
• Year 10 English Task 2
• Year 8 English Task 2

Term 2, Week 8

• Year 12 CAFS Task 3
• Year 12 Chemistry Task 3
• Year 12 Design and Technology Task 3
• Year 12 English Studies Task 3
• Year 12 Mathematics Standard 1 Task 3
• Year 12 Mathematics Standard 2 Task 3
• Year 12 Modern History Task 3
• Year 12 SOR II Task 3
• Year 12 VET: Construction Task 5
• Year 12 VET: Hospitality (Cookery) Task 6
• Year 11 Design and Technology Task 2
• Year 11 English Advanced Task 2
• Year 11 English Standard Task 2
• Year 11 Mathematics Standard 1 Task 2
• Year 11 Mathematics Standard 2 Task 2
• Year 11 Photography, Video and Digital Imagery Task 2
• Year 11 SOR II Task 2
• Year 11 VET: Business Services Task 2
• Year 11 VET: Construction Task 2
• Year 11 VET: Hospitality (Cookery) Task 2
• Year 10 Geography Task 1
• Year 10 Food Technology Task 2

As we approach the second half of Term 2, it’s natural for energy levels to dip and for the busy pace of school life to feel a little overwhelming. This is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of routine in helping students maintain focus, wellbeing, and growth.

Strong routines—consistent sleep, healthy meals, structured study time, and regular communication—create a sense of stability that helps students thrive, even when the term feels long. Whether a student is preparing for their first set of high school exams or navigating the final months of Year 12, routine provides the foundation for calm and confidence.

This is especially true when it comes to learning. A steady rhythm of class attendance, timely submission of work, and ongoing reflection on feedback allows students to steadily build their skills. It also helps them take ownership of their learning—an important part of becoming independent, lifelong learners.

At school, we’re working to support these routines in meaningful ways. For our Year 12 students, regular study afternoons continue to provide a quiet space for focus, with teacher support available. We encourage all students to be proactive in speaking with their teachers about their personal goals—this allows staff to provide more targeted and purposeful feedback.

Families can support students at home by:

• Encouraging regular sleep and wake times, especially during assessment weeks
  
  
• Creating a quiet, screen-free space for homework and study
  
  
• Checking in with students about upcoming assignments or exams
  
  
• Helping them plan out their week to avoid last-minute stress
  
  
• Reinforcing the value of steady effort over perfection
  
  

Small, consistent actions add up. By maintaining healthy routines, students are better equipped to meet challenges and finish the term with purpose and pride.

Mr Shaun Houghton

Leader of Teaching and Learning

Reconciliation Week: 

Monday 1st June was the end of Reconciliation Week but if we are serious about our Catholic faith then every week is reconciliation week. It is not possible for us to make up for the  dispossession of Aboriginal peoples and the stealing of the children, which mostly took place between 1940 and 1970, but we can work to build connections in our society, and listen to the stories and the hurt that can travel from one generation to the next. There is a lot to be gained from Reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and absolutely nothing to lose. 

Laudato Si Week:

It was also Laudato Si’ week last week, commemorating the wonderful encyclical by Pope Francis about looking after the earth, our common home. This is a matter of urgency which has enormous implications for the future of all humanity. As Pope Francis wrote:

“Living our vocation to be protectors of God’s handiwork is essential to a life of virtue; it is not an optional or a secondary aspect of our Christian experience.”

― Pope Francis, ENCYCLICAL LETTER LAUDATO SI' ON CARE FOR OUR COMMON HOME

​​RCIA Program for 2025 - St Paul’s Parish, Camden

Invitations, Enrolment forms and the Timeline for our Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) programme for 2025 have been emailed to all those who expressed an interest in becoming a Catholic and registered with the Parish Office. 

If you have not received an invitation it is still possible to attend the Introductory evening on the 11 June by contacting the Parish Office on 4655 8797 who will be happy to email an invitation and assist with further information.

Prayer:

Give us the courage to accept the realities of our history so that we may build a better

future for our Nation.

Teach us to respect all cultures.

Teach us to care for our land and waters.

Help us to share justly the resources of this land. Help us to bring about spiritual and social change to improve the quality of life for all groups in our communities, especially the disadvantaged.

Help young people to find true dignity and self-esteem by your Spirit.

May your power and love be the foundations on which we build our families, our communities and our Nation, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Mary Magdalene

Pray for us

On Thursday, 15th May, Sienna Beller and Lachlan Chadwick represented Magdalene Catholic College at the Year 11 MISA Public Speaking Competition, where they each delivered a prepared and an impromptu speech. 

Both Sienna and Lachlan represented our College with pride and diligence, using the opportunity to advocate and voice their perspectives on an important social issue of their choice. Sienna presented a captivating speech about the importance of increased and sustained dialogue about gender equity and feminism, encouraging individuals and society not to shy away from these topics. Lachlan also shared an insightful speech, asking individuals to reconsider the value of social media.

The judges commented on the high calibre of speeches and the confident manner in which these were presented. Congratulations to both Sienna and Lachlan for challenging themselves to achieve their personal best, build their critical thinking skills, and develop speaking and presentation skills.

Hear from Sienna and Lachlan:

On Thursday the 15th of May, we had the privilege of representing Magdalene at the Year 11 MISA Public Speaking Competition. The competition was comprised of 21 students across 10 schools in the Macarthur region and each student spoke with conviction on engaging topics. It was an incredibly educational experience that challenged our confidence, clarity and creativity. Public speaking helps develop essential communication skills and we’re grateful for the opportunity to grow and learn through it. Thank you to Miss Wang for her endless support, guidance and commitment during the duration of the competition.

Year 9 and 10 MISA Debating 2025 Season

Well done to our Year 9 and Year 10 MISA Debating Teams for their outstanding efforts throughout their 2025 debating season. Both teams showcased impressive critical thinking, public speaking, confidence and teamwork skills as they tackled complex and challenging topics. We are incredibly proud of their dedication, growth and the way these students have represented our College with pride and diligence this season.

Year 9 

Congratulations to our 2025 MISA Year 9 debating team, Alyssa Deville, Anna Maria Anish, Ethan Lynch, and Emily Axiak who progressed to the Quarter Finals of their competition this season.

During their qualifying rounds, they received topics such as: 

• “That a university degree is necessary for success”
• “That the media fails to represent Australia’s cultural diversity fairly”
• “That stronger discipline is needed in schools”

In the Quarter Final, Year 9 competed against St Francis Catholic College where they were commended on their argument, points, evidence and rebuttals, but were narrowly defeated in a close debate which still showcased their outstanding skill and teamwork. 

Year 10 

Well done to our 2025 MISA Year 10 debating team, Monique Marshall, Valentina Bugedo, Madeline Mazzocco, Laura Bray, Lauren Ballantyne, Saphira Thomas for showcasing strong teamwork, public speaking skills, and their strong efforts in building strong arguments this season. 

They debated a range of complex topics such as:

• “That Australia should become a republic in the next decade” 
• “That cancel culture is a form of accountability”
• “That governments should prioritise the environment over economic growth”

Each round, our debaters diligently conducted research, developed their argument and wrote speeches in their own time, showing their commitment to achieving their personal best, building quality relationships and fostering a love of learning. Well done!

On Wednesday 28th May, our senior students came together in the school hall for a fantastic State of Origin Fundraiser hosted by Year 12. With 80 students in attendance, the night was a great mix of footy action, friendly competition and school spirit.

The event had something for everyone - lucky door prizes, State of Origin trivia, a passing competition, and best dressed prizes for those who really embraced the Blues vs Maroons theme. The main event, of course, was watching the big game live on the big screens, with students cheering on their team and getting into the Origin spirit.

It was great to see so many students enjoying themselves in a relaxed, fun environment. A massive thank you to everyone who came along and supported the night - your involvement helped make it a real success!

Mr Manns

Australian Defence Force

Learn more about Australian Defence Force (ADF) roles available in the Navy, Army and Air Force by attending the upcoming information session happening on: Date: Thursday 26 June 2025 Time: 6pm to 8pm approx. Venue:  Campbelltown RSL, 1 Carberry Lane, Campbelltown NSW 2560   This information session will be hosted by current serving military personnel who understand the Defence application process and can answer your questions.  If you would like to attend and learn more about the ADF and the 200+ roles on offer please follow the link and register your interest ADF Careers - Campbelltown Defence Careers Information Session UAC 5 things you need to know about SRS The Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS) is one way Year 12 students can receive an early offer to university. Through SRS, universities can make offers to students based on criteria other than the ATAR,including their Year 11 results and their school’s recommendation.  Not every university participates in the SRS and not every course is eligible, so you will need to check each institution’s criteria.  Offers are made before ATARs are released, but in many cases, the offer will be conditional – you may still need to meet subject or ATAR requirements. https://www.uac.edu.au/media-centre/news/5-things-you-need-to-know-about-srs University of Notre Dame - Parent and Student Info Session - Oran Park 17 June Join into the Parent and Student Information Session at Oran Park to explore how the University of Notre Dame Australia can support your journey into higher education. This session is ideal for Year 12 students and parents who want to learn more about our Early Offer Program, Future You Admissions Pathway and UniPath – a free and flexible entry program. You’ll also hear about scholarships, alternative admission pathways and exciting new degree options for 2026. Enjoy refreshments on arrival before hearing from our admissions team, academic staff and current students. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and get personalised advice during our post-session expo. https://events.nd.edu.au/parent_and_student_information_session_oran_park Secure the future with a TAFE NSW Bachelor of IT Degree (Cyber and Network Security) Our reliance on technology is progressing and cyber security threats are becoming an increasing challenge for both individuals and organisations. Therefore, the need for qualified network security specialists is growing and your skills will always be in demand. In the Bachelor of Information Technology (Cyber and Network Security) you will acquire the technical skills needed to work as a cyber-security specialist in the fast-growing and dynamic IT industry. Learn to protect data and information, develop solutions for the control and protection against cybercrime and use innovative technologies to manage cyber security threats. https://www.tafensw.edu.au/course-areas/information-and-communication-technology/courses/bachelor-of-information-technology-cyber-and-network-security--HE20624 Apprenticeships with Komatsu - Register Your Interest Register your interest to apply for an apprenticeship with Komatsu. Apprenticeships available include: ● Plant Mechanic ● Electrician ● Fitter ● Boilermaker https://www.komatsu.com.au/careers/apprentice-program/types 2025 Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expos The extremely successful Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expos is  back providing opportunities for your students they will not receive anywhere else. Bring copies of your resume and get in first.   **Free entry! Registration not required** About The Expos The annual Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expos attract over 20000 visitors and 400 exhibitors combined and is widely accepted as the premier expos of their kind in NSW. The timing of the expos are a hit with families as it allows parents to attend with their children and have those all-important career chats with industry experts. The expos kick off the recruitment process. Exhibitors get the chance to collect resumes and promote their organisation for upcoming recruitment drives. With many major infrastructure projects underway, there has never been a better time to start your journey on a rewarding career path. This is the perfect chance to meet experts representing industry, businesses, group training companies, registered training organisations and many more and apply for apprenticeships, traineeships, jobs and further education pathways. Whether you are at school and looking for a career path, a parent hoping to give your child the best opportunities in life, looking for a career change or a job-seeker looking to commence a rewarding career, the 2025 Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expos have all the answers you need. Where & When South Western Sydney & Macarthur Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expo Tuesday 26 August 2025 - 3pm to 7pm Liverpool Catholic Club, 424/458 Hoxton Park Rd, Prestons NSW Western Sydney Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expo Tuesday 9 September 2025 - 3pm to 7pm Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre, 30 Herbert St, Cambridge Park NSW