Two significant events take place during the upcoming school holidays - Easter and ANZAC Day. On the surface, they may seem very different, however, both the Easter Season and Anzac Day have similarities and provide an opportunity to reflect on our lives and on how we can contribute to making the world a better place.

The Easter story reminds us that God walks with us as we face the hardships, challenges and painful realities of life. If we follow the journey of Holy Week, we will hear in the scriptures accounts of friendship and rejection, joy and sorrow, betrayal and faithfulness, despair and hope. During both Easter and ANZAC Day, we reflect on shared stories about the fullness of humanity that we can all identify with. We can see ourselves in those stories because we all have times in our lives when we experience suffering and pain while, at other times, we find ourselves feeling grateful for and celebrating the good things in life. Through all of this we are called to be people of hope - to be people who let the light of the Easter candle burn brightly within so that others can share in that hope. We must ask ourselves how we can be bearers of joy and hope in a complex and challenging world, trusting that we all have something we can do to make this a richer, better world.

Families are welcome to participate in any or all of the beautiful Easter services taking place at St Mary of the Presentation Catholic Church over the Easter weekend. For more information regarding Mass times, please visit the St Mary's Catholic Church website.

Easter falls in the middle weekend of the school holidays and ANZAC Day is on Friday of the second week of holidays.

I hope you are able to enjoy some rest and time with family and friends over the break. If you are travelling, stay safe, and we will look forward to seeing you for the commencement of Term 2.

God bless

Angela Myles 

Open Day - A Great Success

Our second Open Day was a great success with a large number of people attending to have tours, chat to staff and students and see what St Matthews Secondary Campus has to offer. We are very proud of our school and love showing off our wonderful facilities and talking about the many opportunities students have here. 

Thank you to all current families who joined us on the day and invited friends and prospective families. If you have someone who is interested in finding out more about our Secondary Campus please refer them to make a booking for a tour - held weekly or during the enrolment interviews process.

2026 Year 7 Enrolment Information Session - 7 May SMCS Secondary campus @ 5.30pm

We are hosting an information session for families of incoming Year 7 students on Wednesday 7 May at 5.30pm in our Secondary Hall. Please pass this on to any family or friends who may be interested for a 2026 enrolment.

7 - 10 Parent Teacher Interviews - Working as a team

Thank you to all the families who engaged in the Parent Teacher Interviews last week. They were the highest attended in a long time and it was wonderful to see so many families taking this great opportunity to discuss their students' learning. 

At St Matthews we strive to work in partnership with the students and families - we are a team, and Parent Teacher Interviews are a great way to gather information, get feedback -  set goals and devise strategies for the year ahead.

Term 1 Parent Teacher Interviews - Secondary Campus Hall

Elevate - Study Skills Sessions

Last week all students from 7 - 11 engaged in study skills sessions externally delivered by Elevate. These sessions are a great foundation to further study skills sessions students will engage in during their Teaching and Learning Assembly lesson on Wednesdays during Term 2. This aligns with our commitment to give students the necessary knowledge and skills to strive for excellence academically.

Dr Justin Coulson - Unplug Childhood Session 5 May Dubbo

On the 2 April an email went home with an invite to “A night with Dr Jutsin Coulson” for a parent and carer session on navigating the unprecedented challenges from social media and online content. Please refer to your email or see the flyer below for registration details.

Cattle Yard Opening - Wednesday 7 May

On Wednesday 7 May we will be officially opening the cattle yards. A recent addition to our amazing secondary campus facilities the inclusion of cattle yards allows our fast growing Agriculture curriculum to continue to expand and develop. In 2025 we introduced our first VET Primary Industries class with Agriculture in Years 9 - 10 as a popular elective, and 2 unit Agriculture for the HSC already popular amongst our cohorts. We are looking forward to expanding our successful sheep program into cattle in the coming months… watch this space.

Inaugural VET Primary Agriculture class looking forward to working in the yards    

Pupil Free Day - Monday 28 April

A reminder that staff at St Matthews will be involved in a Professional Learning day on Monday 28 April. Teachers will be focussing on different teaching and learning strategies used in the classroom including literacy. Students therefore do not attend school on Monday and return to lessons on Tuesday 29 April.

Blaney McCarthy-English | Head of Campus 

Stations of the Cross

On Wednesday Week 10 we held our Stations of the Cross liturgy as a campus. The liturgy involved students from Years 7-11 who led the community in a reflection of Jesus’ suffering, rejection, and ultimate death on the cross. The liturgy gave the school community the chance to deepen our understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice and reflect on how his journey is relevant in our own lives.

Following our reflection and prayer through the 14 stations, the liturgy ended with a dance by a group of talented students choreographed with Miss Van Raad.

Project Compassion

House Fundraiser Competition: On Thursday, students are asked to bring in a coin to participate in a House fundraiser for Project Compassion. The coins will be lined up in Houses on the Hard Courts during Tutor Group and the House with the longest line will win a Zooper Dooper on Friday. All proceeds will be donated to Project Compassion, and every donation, no matter how small, can make an incredible difference in someone’s life.

Tutor Group Quiz: Throughout the Lenten season, each Tutor Group has watched short films on the stories of Lam, Irene and Toefuata'iga, three individuals whose lives have been changed thanks to Project Compassion. On Friday, each Tutor Group will participate in a quiz on these stories, with the winning Tutor Group from each House winning a prize.

We also ask that any Project Compassion donation boxes are brought back to school before the end of term.

Lenten Prayer

God of our journey

we are all pilgrims of hope

brought together by your love

and your wish that we may all be one.

We pray that in this Year of Jubilee

when we are called to greater justice

and care for our common home

that we may Unite Against Poverty.

May we work in unity for the freedom of the oppressed

and the renewal of creation.

May our compassionate minds and generous hearts

help bring about a world where all can live in peace.

May our Lenten pilgrimage of fasting, almsgiving and prayer

bring us closer to your loving heart.

We ask this in the name of Jesus.

Amen

Term 2 Masses

Pope’s Monthly Prayer Intention

St Mary’s Mudgee Mass Times

Please click HERE to access the Mass times at St Mary’s Parish.

Belinda Redden | Leader of Mission

As we approach the end of Term 1 (can you believe we're already here?), I’d like to take a moment to congratulate all students on the outstanding effort they've shown in their learning and assessment tasks. This term introduced more structured assessment submission procedures for Stage 4 and 5, and it's been impressive to see how positively students have embraced these changes. Their approach reflects a strong commitment to excellence and a genuine dedication to their learning.

In Week 6, students in Years 7 and 9 completed the four NAPLAN assessments — part of the annual national testing program for students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 that evaluates key literacy and numeracy skills. These assessments provide valuable insight into student progress and help schools ensure key educational outcomes are being met. For the first time, our secondary students completed the tests in the school gym, offering them a taste of the formal examination environment. This experience will help students feel more confident and prepared as they encounter more formal examination settings in the years ahead.

In Week 9, our Year 12 students started their Half Yearly Examinations — the first formal exam block of their HSC journey, and will continue through to the end of Week 10. This experience plays a valuable role in preparing them for their final HSC exams in October. It was lovely to see students supporting one another, offering words of encouragement and standing together during this important milestone. I wish Year 12 all the very best for the remainder of their exams and hope the upcoming holidays provide a well-deserved opportunity to rest and recharge.

A reminder of submission details for each stage:

Stage 4 (Years 7 & 8)

• Task Submission: Due date and time are listed on the assessment notification.
• Task Extension: Must be requested from the teacher/KLA Leader at least one week in advance for approved reasons.
• Non-Submission (without reason): A grade penalty may be applied at the discretion of the KLA Leader for up to two weeks. After this period, an E grade will be issued.
• Illness/Misadventure: The student or a parent must email the class teacher on the day of the task, providing an explanation for non-submission.

Stage 5 (Years 9 & 10)

• Task Submission: Due date and time are listed on the assessment notification.
• Task Extension: Must be requested from the teacher/KLA Leader at least one week in advance for approved reasons.
• Non-Submission (without reason): A grade penalty may be applied at the discretion of the KLA Leader for up to two weeks. After this period, an N-warning will be issued.
• Illness/Misadventure: A formal application must be submitted to the KLA Leader (available on Compass), including a medical certificate or alternative approved evidence.

Stage 6 (Years 11 & 12) – NESA Mandated Rules

• Task Submission: Due date and time are listed on the assessment notification. Tasks must be submitted via the library assessment box with a cover sheet.
• Task Extension: Must be requested from the Leader of Learning and Teaching at least one week in advance for approved reasons.
• Non-Submission (without reason): The task will receive a zero mark, and an N-warning will be issued.
• Illness/Misadventure: A formal application must be submitted to the Leader of Learning and Teaching (available on Compass), including a medical certificate for each impacted day or alternative approved evidence.

I wish all families a happy and safe Easter holiday.

Cecilia Swift | Leader of Learning and Teaching

CSU- Health and Community Services Explore Day in Orange

Registrations are open for Health and Community Services Explore Day in Orange, on Tuesday 13 May 2025. Places are limited and they are filling up quickly so if you haven’t already, please register to avoid missing out.

Workshops will focus on medicine, exercise and sports science, nursing, paramedicine, pathology, pharmacy, physiotherapy, psychology, First Nations Success and social work and human services.

When: Tuesday 13 May 2025

Time: 9.15am–2.30pm

Where: Charles Sturt University, Orange campus

Each student will need to register individually at:

Explore day link

Registration Link

Defence Careers Information Session

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: Monday 19 May 2025
• Time: 6pm to 8pm approx.
• Venue: Club Mudgee 99 Mortimer Street Mudgee NSW 2850

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 - Mudgee Defence Careers Information Session

Ulan Coal Mines Apprentice Information Session

Wednesday 1 May 2025 at 4:15pm at Mudgee Racecourse.

 

Work Experience

During week 9, all students from year 10 took part in a Work Experience Program at school. Here they learnt about the options available to participate in Work Experience through St Matthews.

Points to consider:

• The Diocesan does not allow working with large animals
• Students can complete one placement per term (1 week), with each term requiring a different workplace
• Additional documents need to be completed if you are working around small animals, mine sites, machinery or overnight stays
• If working on a job site, the student may require a White Card which will need to be completed prior to work experience
• Work Experience is a privilege. Application at school is a prerequisite to represent St Matthews
• Completed forms must be returned 2 weeks prior to placement commencing

We encourage you to discuss Work Experience places with your child. Further information can be found on the Year 10 Administration classroom.

​​How to Choose the Right Career Path

How to Choose the Right Career Path (Even If You Have No Idea Yet!)

If you’re feeling unsure about what you want to do after school, you’re not alone. Choosing a career can feel like a massive decision, but the good news is that you don’t have to have it all figured out just yet. The key is to explore, stay open to opportunities, and take small steps toward discovering what excites you.

1. Start with What You Enjoy

Think about the subjects or activities you naturally enjoy. Do you love working with people? Solving problems? Being creative? Your interests can give you clues about careers that might suit you.

Tip: Try out a career quiz to discover careers that match your interests.

2. Test the Waters

You don’t have to commit to a career straight away—test things out! Look for work experience, casual jobs, volunteering, or online courses to see what sparks your interest.

Example: If you think you might enjoy marketing, try running a social media page for a local business or club to see if you enjoy it.

3. Talk to People in the Industry

One of the best ways to learn about a career is to hear from people already in the field. Career expos, networking events, or even a simple chat with a teacher, parent, or career advisor can give you insights into different job options.

? Try This: Reach out to professionals on LinkedIn

4. Keep an Open Mind

Many careers today didn’t exist 10 years ago—think about jobs in AI, social media, and sustainability! The workforce is always changing, so stay flexible and focus on building skills like communication, adaptability, and problem-solving.

? Fun Fact: The average person changes careers 5-7 times in their lifetime, so your first job won’t be your last!

5. Don’t Stress—Your Career Journey is a Process

It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right now. The most important thing is to take small steps, stay curious, and learn as you go. Every experience—whether it’s a part-time job, volunteering, or a short course—helps you figure out what you like (and don’t like). 

CIHE has an on-demand online webinar designed to give students an overview of who we are and what we offer.

This webinar is perfect for students who want to learn more about CIHE’s courses in their own time, at their own pace, and from anywhere – whether on a computer or phone!

To access the webinar, students simply need to register here:

CIHE Webinar Registration

Early Entry Program

Our free Early Entry Program means students completing the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) or International Baccalaureate (IB) in 2025 can receive an offer before the HSC exams begin.

To be eligible, applicants must be domestic Year 12 students currently completing the NSW HSC or International Baccalaureate (IB) at one of our recognised Early Entry Program participating secondary schools.

Applications open in 2025. Register your interest and we'll be in contact when applications open.

Registration Link 

The Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine

The Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (The JMP) is an innovative five-year degree delivered jointly with the University of New England and supported by Hunter New England Local Health District and Central Coast Local Health District. Join us for an info session to hear from Joint Medical Program academics and current students about the program, admission requirements and much more.

• Date: Wednesday 7th May 2025
• Time: 6:30pm to 7:30pm
• Registration: JMP Webinar Registration Link

A summary of updated admissions pathways for the JMP are below. Please refer to the JMP Prospectus for further information on pathways into medicine.

Rural Bonus Scheme

If you are applying for entry on the basis of secondary studies and you completed these studies while attending a high school located in a designated rural or remote location you will be eligible to be considered under the Rural Bonus Scheme. Under this scheme applicants must achieve an ATAR of 85 or better (subject to approval) to satisfy the minimum academic requirement. The JMP Admissions Committee is responsible for determining eligibility under this scheme. You would be considered ineligible under this scheme if your home address is in a rural or remote location but you attend(ed) high school in a non-rural location.

Regional Health Professional Pathway

For admission in 2026, up to 10 entrants who are currently health professionals working in the Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD) rural footprint, will be eligible to apply for the Regional Health Professional Pathway. Eligibility Criteria is outlined below.

• Professional Qualification: Candidates must hold a Bachelor degree (minimum) in a specified healthcare profession (Nursing, Physiotherapy, Paramedic, Pharmacy).
• Recent Work Experience: Candidates must have worked as a healthcare professional in the last two years and be registered with the appropriate professional body (AHPRA).
• Rural Residency: Candidates must have lived and worked in their health profession in an MM 3-7 area within the Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD) footprint for at least two years.

This pathway will recruit rural healthcare workers, and evidence required for admission includes evidence of professional qualifications, recent work experience, and potential for success in a medical training pathway

University of Newcastle | Parents and Carers Info Session - Mudgee NSW

Thursday May 22 2025 - 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

If you have a child who is currently completing Year 12 we invite you to join us at our Parents and Carers Info Session on Thursday 22 May at the Country Universities Centre, Mudgee.

Parents and Carers will have the opportunity to hear from knowledgeable university staff and current students, covering a range of different topics to assist you in supporting your child through their transition from high school to university including:

• Everything you need to know about entry schemes and pathways to university, including our Early Entry Program
• How to best support your child through the HSC as well as tips for managing wellbeing and stress
• Have the chance to speak to current University of Newcastle Student Ambassadors about their first-hand experience transitioning from school to university, student life, support services and much more

You’ll also have the chance to speak one-on-one with our friendly teams to ensure you walk away feeling confident and informed.

When you 'Reserve a spot' - Confirmation and reminder emails will be sent directly to you https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/university-of-newcastle-parents-and-carers-info-session-mudgee-nsw-tickets-1300276585269?aff=oddtdtcreator

Jacinda Tink | Transition Coordinator

Recently in Year 11 English Studies, students have been working on exploring ways of effective communication. Specifically positive approaches within the workplace.

They were set the task of working in pairs to complete a guided drawing activity showcasing how well they were able to describe instructions and listen to their peers.

The results were impressive! 

Sandra Stroud and Amy Goodworth | English Teachers

On Monday a group of students from years 7-10 travelled to Orange to compete in the Country Secondary Schools Chess competition against Canobolas Rural Tech High School.

The students played four competitive games and won 3 out of 4 and the last game was a tie. The students then played some social games. It was a great achievement and we congratulate the students. The students will be moving onto the next round in Term 2.

Jacinda Sugden | Teacher Librarian

On Friday 4th April, students from years 7-10 and 11 SLR volunteered to help out at the Primary Netball Gala Day in the roles of coach, umpire, BBQ cooks, canteen and control room helpers. It was a wonderful day and we are so proud of our students for giving up their day to support such a wonderful event.

Jacinda Tink and Emma Kurtz 

Lego Club

Lego Club has started back this term and has been a popular place to meet with friends. The students have been busy creating their masterpieces collaboratively and individually. Lego club is held each Monday in break 1 in the Learning resource Centre - all welcome!

Student Book Group

The student book group had their first meeting of the year in week 6. We welcomed old and new students to the group. The group discussed what they read in their summer holidays. Some of the books included the setting sun, the skin I am in, another life and here one moment. For this term’s book the group will be reading a selection of the notables books from the Children’s Book Council of Australia awards. We look forward to the discussion next term.

Hope everyone has a happy and safe break.

Jacinda Sugden | Teacher Librarian

Catholic schools are Australia’s largest non-government education provider, delivering choice, affordability, and value for all.

Briefing Paper:

Benefits and Priorities:

With the election coming up, parents might be interested in finding out more information by going to the National Catholic Education Commission website.

National Catholic Education Commission

Secondary School Photos will be on Wednesday 14th May 2025

Please find attached instructions for booking school photos. A small number of envelopes will be available from the school office for those families who are unable to purchase online.

We are please to once again offer sibling photos for families with children at both campuses. More information regarding this will be communicated to families close to the date. The cut off for sibling photos will be 12am midnight Monday 12th May.

At St Matthews, we take great pride in our school and the appearance of our students, and we insist that their uniform is neat and tidy for school photos. Full winter uniform must be worn, no sports uniform. Winter shirts should be tucked in and ties properly done up. A reminder that a our uniform shop is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the school term for any items you may need.

If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact the school office.

Helen Holgate | Head of Campus Assistant - Secondary

Flexi Schools is the preferred method for lunch ordering in our school to ensure your childs lunch is available, as we only have limited quantities for sale over the counter. The cut-off time is 9am, orders can be placed the night before or even days in advance.

How to set up your Flexischools account

A reminder that ALL students must update their year in Flexischools when placing your lunch order. This makes the process much quicker for order delivery if this can be done please.

Please contact me via the office if you have any queries regarding the canteen.

Mary Holdsworth | Canteen Manager Secondary

EFTPOS only, no cash

Enjoy the convenience of online shopping. Save time and energy by ordering your uniforms online in six easy steps:

1. Go to midford.com.au
2. Select St Matthews Catholic School from the Online School Shops tab
3. New users to click the ‘Register New Account’ button
4. Start the registration process by selecting St Matthews Catholic School from the drop-down menu and add the unique school pass phrase: “Matthews1912”
5. Add your personal information, create a username and password
6. Order the items you need, select pick-up in store/deliver to school.

If you have any queries please contact the uniform shop directly:
Phone: 0439 442 509 or by email

Ally Lusty | Uniform Shop Manager