Social Media Age Restrictions – Important Update for Families

You may have seen recent media coverage about changes to social media access for young people. From mid-December, children under the age of 16 will no longer be permitted to hold accounts on certain social media platforms. This will apply to Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, and others. Please note that this is not a total ban, but rather a delay in access until students are older. Online gaming and standalone messaging apps are excluded from these new rules.

Why does this matter?
Being logged into social media accounts can increase the likelihood that under-16s are exposed to pressures and risks that are difficult to manage—such as the constant pull of notifications, or exposure to harmful and inappropriate content. In schools, we see the negative impacts of this regularly on student wellbeing. By delaying access until 16, young people are given more time to develop digital literacy, critical reasoning, impulse control, and greater resilience—skills that help them navigate online spaces more safely.

As parents and carers, it is important to:

• Talk openly with your children about the new age restrictions.
• Reflect on how they are currently using social media.
• Consider how these changes may affect them.
  
  

The eSafety Commissioner will be providing guidance and resources to help families prepare for this transition. I encourage you to visit their website for practical tips and up-to-date information:

eSafety Commissioner – Social Media Age Restrictions

If you would like support or to discuss your child’s access to social media, please don’t hesitate to contact the school and speak with a member of our Wellbeing Team.

God bless,

Mrs Angela Myles | Executive Principal

Leadership Process Continues - Captain Nominee Speeches

On Monday in Week 5 our School Captain nominees gave an address to the school community. Each individual demonstrated why their nomination had been supported by their peers and staff - they all delivered speeches that were engaging, articulate, showcasing the already exceptional contributions they have made to the St Matthews community. It is very clear we will have an outstanding student leadership team in 2026. In Week 6 the House Captain nominees will address their houses with a speech, followed by a school community vote. Best of luck to all nominees!

House Captain Nominees

At the beginning of Week 6 our House Captain nominees addressed their respective Houses in a bid for the role in 2026. I had the privilege of hearing the nominees speeches for Romero House. All candidates were very impressive - they spoke passionately about our school, demonstrated ways they had previously been involved in school activities and had thought about projects they wanted to be involved in moving forward to further develop ‘house spirit’. Their House patrons would have been very proud - as I was.

Romero House Captain Nominee Alex addressing Romero

Staff and student voting has now occurred and all nominees will be involved in interviews next week for all student leadership roles for 2026 to be determined. All positions will be announced in the Week 8 Assembly.

Devices for Learning

This week all families will receive a reminder in regards to the device expectations for learning here at St Matthews. Students in Years 7-10 are required to have a Chromebook. Students in senior years - Year 11 and 12 are invited to bring either a  Chromebook or laptop. Whilst some students may have a preference - it is not a school requirement for students to have an Apple Macbook. Any laptop is suitable - and the Chromebook, if in good working order, may still be an appropriate device of choice.

I wanted to be timely with this reminder - before end of year sales and ‘Christmas wish lists’ have been developed.

All students have a responsibility to respect and care for their device. Any damage caused through misuse or neglect is their responsibility. If a student causes damage to another student's device (accidental or deliberate) they could be liable for the replacement or repair costs after consultation with the IT and Wellbeing departments. We are grateful for your ongoing support in our IT and device policies and procedures.

Blaney McCarthy-English | Head of Campus - Secondary

St Matthews Way Value Term 3:

COMPASSION

“As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord[a] has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”

Colossians 3:12-13

Service: Active Volunteers

On Wednesday the 20th August, the Active Volunteering class went on an excursion to Whiddon Aged Care. This experience was significant for us for a number of reasons. Before we get into the details, we would like to thank Ms Redden for taking time out to take us on this amazing excursion and for organising this volunteering program. This program exemplifies the value of  ‘service’ and enables us to see that in action.

When we arrived on our first visit we needed to sign in and wear our masks. We were then taken down to the ward, where we were able to have a quick chat with the elderly residents and staff. We then joined them for chair yoga, which is where you sit in a chair while doing some exercise with your arms. The highlight of the day was the wonderful connection we all made with the elderly people there, they shared funny stories that made all of us laugh. 

A challenge we all faced was trying to communicate with some of the people, with lack of hearing and them not having enough power to speak louder. This is something that we will work on in our future visits, which will occur fortnightly. 

On behalf of St Matthew’s and the Year 10 Active Volunteering class we would also like to thank Whiddon Aged Care for inviting us and allowing these visits.

Willow Power  | Year 10

RISE

Please see Ms Redden to express interest and for more details regarding transport arrangements. Please note that finances should never be an impediment for a young person to attend. If support is required contact Natalia or Ms Redden.

   

Upcoming Liturgies and Events

Week	Date	Event
Every week	Wednesday: Break 1	Sacred Adoration
6	27 August	Yr 9 Mass
6	28 August	Yr 11 Leadership Day
7	3 September	Yr 7 Mass
7	6/7 September	Parish Mass School leaders to be involved.
8	9 September	Ozanam Feast Day
9	18 September	Y12 Prayer Partners Mass & morning Tea
10	24 September	Yr 12 Graduation Mass
10	26 September	St Matthew's Day Mass(12:30  -1:30)   Mission Frolic

 

Pope’s Prayer Intention

September 2025 Intention

For mutual coexistence.

For our relationship with all of creation

Let us pray that, inspired by Saint Francis, we might experience our interdependence with all creatures who are loved by God and worthy of love and respect.

Belinda Redden | Leader of Mission 

 

 

Year 11 2026 SBAT AND TVET

Forms due Wednesday 3rd September 2025

The closing date for Year 11 2026 SBAT and TVET courses is Wednesday 3rd September. Students are to return completed forms to Mr Barry Neaverson-Smith.

Students have access to these forms on their Year 10 admin classroom classroom which can be  printed off in the library during break time.

EVET/TVET courses are a great option for those who would like to get a head start and a qualification whilst also having the option of completing an ATAR at school.

An SBAT is ideal for those who know their career path and would like to get a head start on their qualification, gain weekly hands on paid experience at the workplace while also obtaining their HSC (not an ATAR pathway at St Matthews). 

Please note- All SBAT forms and information has been posted directly on the student admin classroom including:

*Western NSW Local Health District School-Based Traineeship (SBAT) program (eg Nursing, hospital care, administration etc)

*SBAT Catholic Diocese Education Support

Western NSW LHD Work experience end date has been extended to the 15th September to complete work experience prior to applying for a Western NSW LHD SBAT placement. 

Mudgee TAFE- TVET

• Automotive
• Animal Care
• Cookery
• Electrotechnology
• Early Childhood Education & Care
• Beauty Services

There is also the option of studying TVET through distance education. Please refer to the following course guides for further information: TVET Guide 2026

Students also have the option of completing a School Based Apprenticeships. Please refer to the following for further information: School-Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship

There are also. a variety of VET subjects being offered at St Matthews including:

• Cookery
• Primary Industries- Agriculture
• Construction
• Live production and Technical services

Please see our website for more information- St Matthews VET course information.

Year 12- Early offer schemes for Year 12 students

Direct Entry for Universities are closing soon. Don't forget to complete your applications. If you are unsure, please see the attached link for closing dates:

Undergraduate applications and offers

Year 12 Student Teacher Scholarship Program 2026

Applications are now open for our 2026 Year 12 Student Teacher Scholarship Program.

What the Scholarship Offers:

• Up to $20,000 financial support throughout the course of the recipients university degree (payment to be made over a four-year degree (pro-rata for part-time students)
• Students are able to attend a university of their choice
• Opportunity for students to become familiar with our diocesan schools through guaranteed practical placements
• Ongoing mentorship and support throughout the duration of their degree
• Guaranteed employment within our Diocese upon successful completion of their degree

Eligibility Criteria:

• Students will need to have attended one of our diocese's high schools
• All offers made will be made conditional until scholarship recipients provide their HSC results and ATAR (results will be taken into account)
• Students are required to provide two (2) school-based referees to support their application
• Students must consent to the CEDB contacting their school to obtain a copy of their most recent school report
• Students are required to maintain a CREDIT average across the duration of their university degree - failure to do so may result in financial support being postponed until credit average is achieved

KEY DATES

Applications open: Thursday 7 August

Applications close: Sunday 24 August (11:55pm)

Shortlisted candidate interviews: Monday 25 August - Friday 29 August

Conditional offers made to recipients: Wednesday 10 September - Wednesday 17 September

HSC results & ATAR to be submitted to scholarships@bth.catholic.edu.au by Friday 19 December

Please complete the following google form: Click here

 

Get paid to study

Explore scholarship opportunities for high-achieving HSC students, university students and career changers.

For further information regarding scholarships, Click here

 

 

Upcoming events:

Monday (September 01, 2025)

~ Defence Careers Australia - Cooma: Defence Careers Information Session

Wondering whether a job in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is the right fit for you?

Come along to an upcoming info session where you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and learn everything you want to know regarding job roles in the Navy, Army and Air Force.

You'll have the chance to speak with current serving members to see if an ADF career is the one for you.

It is highly recommended you book as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited!

Time: 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM (AEST)

Location: Cooma Ex Services Club

Details and Registration:
https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/88wrlat

 

~ CQUniversity - Paramedic Science Open Day Webinar

Join us for the CQU Paramedic Science Webinar and discover where a Paramedic Science degree can take you!

Hear about the varied, challenging and rewarding career opportunities a Paramedic Science qualification can lead you to, both in Australia and overseas.

Gain insights from our experienced academic staff about the exceptional hands-on learning experiences delivered in our state-of-the-art facilities, and find out how flexible our study options can be to suit your lifestyle.

Time: Details in link

Location: Online

Details and Registration:
https://www.cqu.edu.au/events/1153728/open-day-webinar-paramedic-science

Tuesday (September 02, 2025)

~ World Education Program - Online WEP Talk

Jump on your device and join us for an online WEP Talk, as we present information about WEP and our student exchange programs, including the best time to go, which countries offer which program, information about host families, schools, and all other things student exchange!

Time: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Online

Details and Registration:
https://www.wep.org.au/events/wep-talk-online-2-Sept

 

~ Defence Careers Australia - Erina: Defence Careers Information Session

Wondering whether a job in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is the right fit for you?

Come along to an upcoming info session where you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and learn everything you want to know regarding job roles in the Navy, Army and Air Force.

You'll have the chance to speak with current serving members to see if an ADF career is the one for you.

It is highly recommended you book as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited!

Time: 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM (AEST)
Location: Erina Army Reserve Depot

Details and Registration:
https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/lfkkv5x

 

~ Torrens University - Business and Hospitality Virtual Open Day

Join us online as our Business and Hospitality academics talk you through the courses on offer and how you can get the most out of studying with us. Learn about scholarships, study pathways, our industry partnerships with global brands and what sets us apart from other universities.

Time: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Online

Details and Registration:
https://www.torrens.edu.au/whats-on/open-day/virtual-open-day/business-and-hospitality

 

~ Charles Sturt University - Deadly Pathways Festival - Wiradjuri Country

Deadly Pathways Festivals are back in 2025! Join us for three high-energy days full of activity, inspiration and celebration of First Nations success.

Time: Details in link
Location: Dubbo

Details and Registration:
https://study.csu.edu.au/why-charles-sturt/events/deadly-pathways-festival

 

~ CQUniversity - Nursing Open Day Webinar

Join us for the CQU Nursing Webinar!

Whether you're aiming to become an enrolled or registered nurse, or you're looking to return and advance your nursing studies, our TAFE and university-level nursing courses can help you prepare you for a rewarding and meaningful career in healthcare.

Join this informative webinar to discover our flexible study options and seamless pathways, designed to support you from start to finish. With campus locations across the country and a renowned online learning platform, CQU provides the support and flexibility you need to succeed.

Plus, have your questions answered live by our course experts and the CQU Support Team.

Time: Details in link
Location: Online

Details and Registration:
https://www.cqu.edu.au/events/1153850/nursing-open-day-webinar

 

~ TAFE NSW - Study and Career Pathways Information Session

Join us online or at your nearest participating campus, and discover how TAFE NSW can help you get the skills you need for the job you want. Registrations are mandatory. Get in quick to secure your seat today.

Courses covered in session:
Certificate III in Pathways to Further Study
Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation
TAFE Statement in HSC Studies

Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Location: St Leonards - 213 Pacific Highway, St Leonards, 2065, NSW

Details and Registration:
https://visit.tafensw.edu.au/infofest?uid=11118&_gl=1*57xo61*_gcl_au*MTgzNDA2NDg2Ni4xNzU1MDU1Nzgw*_ga*MTYwODE1MDg3Ni4xNzU1MDU1MDY3*_ga_HVPWRW2WHJ*czE3NTUwNTUwNjYkbzEkZzEkdDE3NTUwNTU4OTgkajQ0JGwwJGgw

 

~ Torrens University - Technology Virtual Open Day

Join us online as our Technology academics talk you through the courses on offer and how you can get the most out of studying with us. Learn about scholarships, study pathways, our industry partnerships with global brands and what sets us apart from other universities.

Courses include: Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Game Design and Development, Digital Transformation, Information Technology and Software Engineering.

Time: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Online

Details and Registration:
https://www.torrens.edu.au/whats-on/open-day/virtual-open-day/technology

 

Torrens University - Health and Education Virtual Open Day

Join us online as our Health and Education academics talk you through the courses on offer and how you can get the most out of studying with us. Learn about scholarships, study pathways, our industry partnerships with global brands and what sets us apart from other universities.

Time: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Online

Details and Registration:
https://www.torrens.edu.au/whats-on/open-day/virtual-open-day/health-and-education

 

~ Student Exchange - LIVE Online Information Session

Say yes to a life changing experience!

Discover our destinations, program durations, eligibility, Scholarships and Early Bird Discounts. Ask questions, and feel prepared for the experience ahead:

Introduction to Student Exchange, the regulatory environment & benefits

Program options, destinations & eligibility

Safety and wellbeing, our support system & where you will stay

Money Matters, including available discounts & scholarships

Deadlines & how to apply

Why choose Student Exchange?

Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Online

Details and Registration:
https://studentexchange.org.au/events-and-webinars/live-online-information-session-tuesday-september-2-2025-730-pm-aest

 

Mrs Jacinda Tink | Transition Coordinator 

Year 11 Legal Studies students have been learning about contemporary case studies as part of the ‘Law in Practice’ topic. Case studies have included new laws criminalising coercive control following the death of Hannah Clarke and her young family, as well as recent changes to the Bail Act which impact repeat young offenders.

Students have then incorporated their knowledge of these issues into extended response writing, with a focus on deepening their critical analysis of the Australian legal system. A key literacy strategy that we’ve used to build this skill is the use of annotated modelled responses which guide students through the process of constructing a clear thesis which is supported by a range of evidence including legislation, cases and media articles. 

Emily Thorn |  Legal Studies Teacher 

Melodie Coleman | Literacy Coach

Business Simulation

Year 11 Business Studies students were tasked with the job of establishing the key business functions for a business called ‘Uniquely Yours Designs’ specialising in creating customised products. Students worked together to form a marketing, operations and human resource team.

The HR team focused on the processes for employing workers, training and rewarding employees. 

The operations team were responsible for the manufacture and quality management of the personalised keyrings and the marketing team ensured the marketing mix was creative and effective.

Melodie Coleman | Year 11 Business Studies Teacher

Recently the St Matthews Agricultural students from Years 9 and 10 headed to Dubbo to participate in the NSW School Merino Wether Challenge - joining 800 students from 76 schools across NSW.

Students have spent the last 6 months feeding and working with six wethers generously supplied by Egelabra Merino Stud Warren. During the 2 day event, students participated in a range of workshops including junior judging, fleece analysis, marketing, wool harvesting, and more, all while networking with industry representatives and other students from around the state.

Our A team of wethers received a second placed ribbon for Highest Restocker Wool Value zone 2.

Well done to the Show Team for representing St Matthews with enthusiasm, skill and maturity.

All students were fantastic ambassadors for the school.

Judy Rohr  | Agricultural Technology Teacher

Week 2 Futsal Update

Pool A

The Teachers (England) have stormed to the top with two wins from two games, including a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Morocco in Round 2. Switzerland, who had the bye in round 1, also sit on 6 points after their comfortable win in round 2. Argentina’s draw and bye place them third, while Morocco’s strong defence - they have only conceded 1 goal so far - needs to be matched with goals up front. Denmark remain winless in 5th but continue to show plenty of spirit.

Pool B

The Netherlands lead the way after a dominant win in Round 1 and a bye in Round 2. Japan and Mexico join them on 6 points, making this pool very tight at the top. Spain and Croatia are still chasing their first wins, though Spain’s crowd-pleasing goal against Mexico and Croatia’s battling 3–2 loss in Round 2 show both sides are still dangerous.

Everything remains wide open heading into the next rounds — expect more twists to come!

Mr Nick Hammond | Futsal Coach

With the return to school in Term 3 coinciding with an icy blast in the weather, students have embraced the opportunity to upskill and make their own woollen projects in Craft Club.

Each Monday, students have met to learn skills in knitting, sewing and mending, with a view to starting their very own beanies over the coming weeks.

Well done for those students who have embraced the challenge in learning something new!

Mrs Emily Thorn | HSIE Teacher

Elective Drama students are busily preparing for their upcoming class production of Stories in the Dark by Debra Oswald. We warmly invite all members of the Mudgee community to attend.

Below is a promotional poster created by Year 9 student - Holly Hill - one of the many important roles in preparing for a production.

Mrs Kirsty Skinner | Drama Teacher 

Book Week 

Book Week was celebrated in week 5 of the term and was full of great events and student participation. Book week is celebrated each year and provides the opportunity to draw attention to the joy of reading and for advocating the importance of literacy in student’s lives. This year's theme was, “Book an adventure!” Each year the Children’s book council of Australia awards authors books  to highlight and promote quality Australian literature and content to Australian students.

During Book Week there were several events throughout the week to celebrate this important event. These included trivia, a scavenger hunt  and a sing off . The students also enjoyed participating in several competitions such as the tutor group challenge and a guessing competition. It was so wonderful to see the students getting involved in all the events. Thank you to everyone who came and celebrated this booktastic week!

Mrs Sugden | Teacher/Librarian