Last week we were delighted to mark Chinese New Year, welcoming in the Year of the Horse with a joyful celebration at the College alongside our international students and their families. In the Chinese zodiac tradition, the Horse symbolises energy, strength, perseverance and freedom of spirit. It represents forward movement, resilience and a determination to strive toward one’s goals, all qualities we seek to nurture in our young men each day. The celebration was a vibrant expression of culture and community, with shared food, conversation, performances and speeches by our international students. It was a wonderful reminder that our College community is enriched by the diversity of stories, traditions and experiences that each family brings.
That same spirit of community was echoed at last night's Broken Bay Diocesan Mass where new staff from across our Diocese, including our new members of staff, were formally welcomed into our extended community of Catholic Schools. At the same mass, long-serving staff were recognised for their years of dedicated service. Moments such as these highlight the deep importance of community, foundational to the Augustinian tradition, of belonging to something greater than ourselves. To gather in prayer, to acknowledge commitment, and to honour faithful service reminds us that education is never a solitary endeavour. It is built on relationships, trust and a shared mission. We are deeply grateful for the generosity, vocation and commitment of our staff, who model these values so powerfully for our students.
Looking ahead, our focus turns to one of the most significant events on our College calendar, Open Day. This occasion is more than a showcase of facilities; it is an opportunity to express who we are and what we value as a community of learners. This event also provides our young men the opportunity to showcase their College and to partake in service. Our students play a vital role on this day. Whether leading tours, assisting visitors, performing, or supporting staff behind the scenes. They are our most authentic ambassadors. The warmth, pride and sincerity they bring cannot be manufactured, it is simply who they are, and who we are as a College. I encourage parents to speak with your sons about the importance of volunteering and stepping forward to assist. Service builds character, fosters humility and strengthens community bonds. Equally, our parent volunteers are invaluable. I warmly invite families to join with the P & F in volunteering and supporting Open Day. Your involvement contributes greatly to the welcoming spirit that defines our College.
Parent voice is an important part of ensuring that our community has the opportunity not only to provide feedback on what we do as a College, but also to help shape our direction and goals moving forward. As we remind our students, it is important to continue striving to be better, no matter how well we think we are going. To this end, and as we have done in the past, we will be sending out a Perspectives survey to parents. We encourage you to take the time to complete the survey so that we have a clear understanding of parent perspectives as we begin developing our College Strategic Plan for the next five years.
The zodiac sign of the Horse is often associated with being steadfast and sure-footed. As the number of students riding e-bikes to school continues to grow, this image offers an important reminder. Steadfastness is not simply determination; it is disciplined responsibility. We ask our students to be steady, attentive and mindful riders, to follow road rules carefully, to wear appropriate safety equipment, and to ride in a way that respects both their own safety and the wellbeing and safety of our local community. Riding with awareness and courtesy displays not only personal responsibility but also our collective commitment to safety and respect.
Finally, I wish to reflect on the power of words and actions within our community. We live in a world where strong voices often seem to dominate. Where opinions and views are can feel like they are “yelled” rather than shared, creating a constant noise around us. In such an environment, it is essential that we guide our young men to understand that their words and actions carry weight. They have the power to affirm or to wound, to unite or to divide. As a College community, we must continue to encourage kindness, patience and thoughtful speech, so that every person feels safe, valued and accepted. In this year, where our Graduate lens focus is interiority, we are called to reflect on our thoughts and actions and model the behaviours that we wish to see in others.
As this season of Lent has begins, I conclude with the words of Pope Leo:
“Dear Friends, let us ask for the grace of a Lent that leads us to a greater attentiveness to God and to the least among us. Let us ask for the strength that comes from the type of fasting that also extends to our use of language, so that hurtful words may diminish and give way to a greater space for the voice of others. Let us strive to make our communities places where the cry of those who suffer finds welcome, and listening opens paths towards liberation, making us ready and eager to contribute to building a civilisation of love.”
Head of Primary School
Great Start to the Year | Importance of Reading | Importance of Character | New Playground Space | Leadership in Primary School | Merits and Awards | Open Day | Year 5 Camp
Great Start to the Year
As we embrace the vibrant start of the school year, we are thrilled to report that our Year 5 boys have settled in exceptionally well at our Augustinian Catholic school. With enthusiasm and eagerness, they have joined a community that values not only academic excellence but also the development of good character. This year presents a wonderful opportunity for our Year 5 students to form strong bonds with their Year 6 buddies. These connections are pivotal as they navigate their educational journey together, fostering friendships that will grow throughout the year.
The Year 6 boys have taken on their role as mentors with great responsibility and warmth. They have already met their Year 5 buddies, creating a supportive environment where younger students feel encouraged and valued. The mentorship initiative is designed to strengthen these connections, allowing the older boys to guide their younger counterparts through both academic and social experiences in our school community. This buddy system embodies the Augustinian values of Truth, Love, and Community, helping to instil empathy, integrity, humility, and compassion in our students.
Importance of Reading
An essential part of our boys' growth is the practice of reading, and we cannot stress enough the importance of reading aloud, both to your sons and having them read aloud to you. This practice not only fosters family bonding but also allows our boys to hear what proficient reading sounds like. As they engage with their novels in class, we encourage you to continue this experience at home. Sharing stories together enhances comprehension and encourages a love for literature, reinforcing the skills they are developing in the classroom.
To further reinforce the importance of reading and to strengthen relationships with our senior boys, we recently launched the Big Brother Reading Program. This initiative pairs our Year 5 students with Year 10, 11, and 12 boys, who will read with them, share experiences, and provide guidance. This program is designed to continue throughout the year, fostering connections between our younger and older students while promoting a culture of reading.
Importance of Character
In our Augustinian community, we believe that good character is a vital measure of success. As our boys are immersed in their studies and friendships, they are also learning the significance of being compassionate and respectful individuals. The values we hold dear help shape their character and guide them in making positive contributions to society.
New Playground Space
We are also excited to announce the upcoming addition of new playground space, expected to be completed in the first semester of 2026. This new area will provide our students with a safe and engaging environment to play, explore, and develop their social skills. We believe that play is integral to the learning process, allowing boys to build friendships and strengthen their ability to work collaboratively.
Leadership in the Primary School
In the spirit of leadership, our Primary School is in the process of selecting the next class leaders for the Student Representative Council (SRC). These representatives will meet with me once a fortnight and will have the opportunity to collaborate with the High School SRC monthly. This initiative empowers our boys to take on leadership roles, fostering a sense of responsibility and community engagement.
Merits and Awards
We also want to extend our congratulations to the Year 5 boys who received their very first merits at our Primary School Assembly on Monday. Recognition of achievements, whether through merits, affirmations, or our special Hot Chocolate Fridays, highlights the positive attitudes, behaviour, and adaptability that these boys have displayed as they adjust to new structures and processes.
Open Day
Looking ahead, we are excited about the upcoming College Open Day, which will showcase the incredible programs we offer, including the possibility of an Opportunity Class in 2028. Our holistic education approach caters to the diverse needs, interests, and unique personalities of each boy, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and valued.
Year 5 Camp
The Year 5 boys ventured off on their overnight Orientation Camp to Milson Island this week, and by all accounts it was a safe and enjoyable experience for all. These camps are essential for meeting new friends, stepping out of their comfort zones, and enjoying a break from digital distractions.
Together, let us support all Primary boys as they embark on an exciting journey in 2026, nurturing their growth in character, academics, and friendships.
Terry Walsh Head of Primary School
Deputy Principal - Students
E-Bikes update | Year 10 Vaccinations
E-Bikes – updated legislation
There has been a lot of narrative following the notorious illegal bike ride over the Sydney Harbour Bridge recently with a swift, combined response from the Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Minister for Roads and Minister for Transport. See link to their media release below.
The College is following updates closely to see how any changes to legislation can affect our students and how we can assist families with navigating the sliding scale of law enforcement, community frustration and media attention.
The most recent legislation is announcing that illegal e-bikes will be “seized and crushed to stop the use of high-powered and doctored bikes that perform more like motorbikes than bicycles.”
The College will be monitoring e-bikes parked on campus and will ask boys who ride ones that do not fit the Government’s requirements, to please not ride them to school.
I would ask parents to read the media release below and check their son’s e-bike to ensure it complies with updated legislation:
All students riding an e-bike to school should by now have an e-bike sticker.
As advised to parents in earlier communication, for the College to be confident that the students are riding regulated e-bikes, and are abiding by the road rules, parents of e-bike riders were asked to provide confirmation (via this MS Teams form) that:
Your son has, under your specific supervision and guidance, passed the practice L-driver test (because ANY rider of ANY age when on a ‘bicycle’, can ride on the road).
You have personally read through the specific rules for bicycles with your son.
When the MS Teams form is submitted, we provide your son with an e-bike sticker.
If your son has lost his sticker and needs a replacement, please ask him to come to my office, on Clancy level 2. He does not need to submit another MS Teams form.
From next week, the College will check that all e-bikes parked on campus have an e-bike sticker.
Year 10 Vaccinations
Students in Year 10 are due to receive their Meningococcal ACWY vaccines on Tuesday 10 March 2026. Some Year 8 and Year 11 catch-up vaccines will also be administered by NSW Health nurses.
If you have not provided consent for your Year 10 son yet, please do so as soon as possible. Year 7 vaccines are scheduled for June so a notice will be sent to their parents, later in the year.
Please read the information below from NSW Health with instructions on how to provide consent.
NSW School Vaccination Program
NSW Health will offer vaccinations to all Year 10 students on Tuesday 10th March 2026
Year 10 – Meningococcal ACWY
Also Year 11 – Meningococcal ACWY (if not already vaccinated in Year 10)
Year 8 – HPV and dTpa (those who missed it in Year 7)
To have your child vaccinated at school, you need to give your permission (consent) either online or by filling out and returning the paper consent form.
If your child is absent from school and misses the clinic we can vaccinate them at school later in the year.
Year 7 students will be offered free vaccines for diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis (dTpa) and human papillomavirus (HPV) at school later in the year.
On vaccination day
Children should eat a good breakfast and wear short-sleeved shirts like their sports uniform. After getting the vaccine children can play sport, shower, and do after-school activities as normal.
If you have difficulty completing the online vaccination consent form, please contact our School Vaccination Team. Email nslhd-phuschoolvaccinationprogram@health.nsw.gov.au or phone 02 9485 6971 for assistance.
Need to Know
College Review and Development of the 2027-2032 Strategic Plan
This year, the College will undertake a comprehensive College Review to inform the development of our 2027–2031 Strategic Plan. This important process will help shape the next phase of our growth, ensuring we continue to provide an exceptional learning environment for all students.
To support this work, the College is using the Perspectives: Your school in focus suite of surveys developed by ISNSW. These surveys play a key role in our school improvement efforts, providing valuable insights into the experiences and perceptions of our community. The results, combined with other data sources, will guide future planning and help refine our strategic priorities.
The surveys explore five key domains:
College Environment
Teaching and Learning
Student Wellbeing
Leadership
Community
All staff, students, parents/guardians, College leaders and Board Directors will be invited to participate. The surveys will be available online from Monday 9 March to Sunday 22 March 2026 and take approximately 15–20 minutes to complete.
Your voice is essential. By sharing your perspectives, you contribute directly to the ongoing improvement of the College and help us enhance the learning experience for every student.
For any enquiries, please contact Anthony Bataille, Executive Officer to the Principal, at abataille@saintaug.nsw.edu.au.
College Photo Gallery - Pixevety
Images of various College events, which may include images of College students (2018 to 2026) are available in Pixevety. To access Pixevety follow the Parent User Guide below:
Our Students
Student Awards
Congratulations to the following students:
Year/House
Student
Details
5
Jack McLean
For the exemplary way he has commenced his journey at St Augustine’s, settling into the community with maturity and confidence. He embodies our core values of Truth, Love, and Community through his kindness, respectful collaboration with peers, and positive contribution to team learning. His dedication to his learning and commitment to continuous growth are highly commendable. Well done on such a positive and impressive beginning to your time at St Augustine’s College.
6
Agustin (Ogi) Hughes Miranda
For the quiet confidence and maturity he brings to all aspects of school life. Ogi approaches his learning with determination, respect and a positive attitude, consistently reflecting the Augustinian values in the way he engages with peers and staff.
7
Lars Janeke
For demonstrating his character strength of kindness by going out of his way to ensure a new student is following along with the work in class and helping them find their way around the school.
9
Jasper Richardson
Jasper has demonstrated strong Augustinian values through his kindness and respect towards his classmates. He has made a wonderful start to the year.
Crane
Jack Berne
For rallying his Tutor Group with energy and enthusiasm to finish undefeated in the Inaugural Cravey Cup during Friday's AWEsome Captain's Choice between Crane and Heavey House.
Goold
Tobias Woolnough
Tobias contributes to our community with a generous spirit, always willing to serve without expecting anything in return.
Murray
Carson Mackenzie
Mac treats everyone with respect and kindness, helping to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
Pak Lam Zhao, Prefect – International
Chinese New Year 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse.
As one of the participants in the Chinese New Year celebration hosted by the College recently, I felt boundless warmth, cultural recognition, and love from the St Augustine’s College community.
This annual celebration is more than a school activity for international students, it envelops us with love and the feeling of being part of a large “family” where we are all one of the family members.
Instead of a celebration, this event felt more like a reunion dinner where everyone in the family gathered together to express themselves in multiple ways, with performances, games and speeches from students, staff and parents.
As we walk together into this new year, let us open our hearts like a clear morning sky, ready to learn, to grow, and to share kindness - not only with others, but with ourselves. Embrace each new opportunity with confidence, lift your friends as they lift you, and in the spirit of Interiority, do not fear to pause, to reflect, and to find stillness, especially when the path feels uncertain or heavy.
Thank you all.
Pak Lam Zhao
Mission & Wellbeing
Liturgy and Retreats
Ash Wednesday | Youth Mass
Our Wednesday Community Masses are underway for 2026. We ask parents and boys students to note the upcoming schedule. Parents are more than welcome to attend.
Community Mass Schedule – Boys studentsfrom these Tutor Groups are asked to attend. 8.05am
Week 5 Wednesday 25 February - Years 10 to 12 Goold 4, 5, 6
Week 6 Wednesday 4 March - Years 10 to 12 Heavey 1, 2, 3
Week 7 Wednesday 11 March - Years 10 to 12 Heavey 4, 5, 6
Week 8 Wednesday 18 March - Years 10 to 12 Hutchinson 1, 2, 3
Week 9 Wednesday 25 March - Years 10 to 12 Hutchinson 4, 5, 6
Week 10 Wednesday 1 April - Years 10 to 12 Murray 1, 2, 3
Ash Wednesday
On Wednesday 18 February, the College came together to acknowledge Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. The Lenten season is a time for prayer, fasting and almsgiving. We receive ashes on our foreheads to symbolise our repentance and humility before God.
Youth Mass
Our next Youth Mass is scheduled for Sunday 8 March at 5:00 pm at St Kieran’s Church in Manly Vale. Families with students in Years 8 to 10 are particularly invited to attend this Mass, which will be celebrated by our chaplain, Fr Senan Ward, OSA. Notably, 8 March coincides with the Feast Day of St Senan. We encourage all members of the community to participate in this special occasion.
SEA - Service Education Awareness
Lenten Appeal and Term 1 Service Opportunities
The 2026 Augustinian value that we are focusing on as a college is Interiority, where we turn inward and search for spiritual, rather than material, satisfaction.
We’d like to encourage all of the Saints community to think about what they value and consider global issues that are important to them or interest them, and try to make a positive difference in at least one of these during Lent.
The season of Lent began this week, and this year our Lenten appeal will be a College version of the old Project Compassion. We would like to raise funds for those in need and are aiming to buy two or three washing machines in Fiji, for the villages where we visit and stay on the Under 15 Rugby Tour and Year 10 Service Immersion, as well as purchasing goods for those affected by natural disasters over the summer in rural Australia.
We are aiming for a minimum of just $5 per student (just the price of one “McValue Meal” at McDonalds!) which will be collected by your son’s Tutor during Lent.
We appreciate your support for these causes.
Other ways that we can make a positive difference (and boost our own wellbeing while you’re at it!) are by performing acts of kindness. Volunteering where we can is a fantastic example of this.
We have several opportunities this tTerm, some that are offered by the college, others are in the wider Northern Beaches community and could be taken up as a family.
Northern Beaches Community Cancer Charity "Little Lifts" volunteering
Suitable for Year 10 and above - must be accompanied by an adult)
Receiving cancer treatment is a time of anxiety for the patient, as well as their family and friends, and it can have a profound impact on stress levels and overall well-being.
“Little Lifts” offers practical support to individuals undergoing cancer treatment in the Northern Beaches area. Our community-driven initiative connects volunteers with those in need, assisting with daily tasks to ease the treatment journey.
If you are interested in learning more about these volunteering opportunities, such as cleaning, gardening, personal fitness/training (this could be as simple as going for a walk with the patient and having a chat), transport to appointments, please go to Little Lifts or email me at bignold.k@saintaug.nsw.edu.au.
I know there is an urgent request for some lawnmowing for an elderly couple, where the husband is undergoing cancer treatment and he is also caring for his wife. They have a lawnmower but would just need someone to come to mow their lawns while he is unable to.
Manly Writers Festival
setting up and packing down venues
Saturday March 21 - Sunday March 22
There will be a range of times and venues, about 45 minutes to 1 hour commitment for each. Mostly entailing moving chairs and tables.
More information on signing up to volunteer still to come!
Special Olympics Tennis - "Ball kid" volunteers
Sunday April 12
Oxford Falls Tennis Centre
Support an amazing cause and have fun at the same time!
You don’t need to be a Tennis pro to get involved! This is open to all years, all staff, all families.
You just need to be able to run around a court to gather tennis balls, follow instructions, and interact respectfully with these inspirational athletes.
Special bonus – our very own Harry Werner from the Maintenance Team will be competing, too!
If interested, boys can send me a DM by 31 March.
PLUS....
OPEN DAY volunteers
Friday 27 February
Students should check DMs from various staff members asking for assistance.
International Women’s Day Assembly and related activities
Friday 6 March
Please contact Miss Bignold if you or your sons would like to be involved with planning events related to this day.
Head Above Water 24 Hour Swimathon
Saturday 14 March, 9am – Sunday 15 March, 9am
Collaroy Rockpool
We would love to see all years and Houses represented for our biggest community and service activity for the term.
Students, staff, and families can swim, volunteer, and/or fundraise to support the fantastic community organisations that run much needed local mental fitness and mental health programs.
Choose any time and any lane. It would be great if we could mostly swim on the Saturday afternoon/evening, anytime from 3pm – 8pm, but not necessary. If you want to swim at the same time as friends/family, you just need to talk beforehand and make sure you all register for the same time (You don't need to be in the same lane!)
When you get to the question "Are you fundraising in a team?” - select Yes-Join an Existing Team from the dropdown menu and select your House team.
When you get to the checkout, use the code TEAM2026 so you only pay $20 to register.
Follow the prompts in the confirmation email to access your personal and House team fundraising pages. Just a reminder, anything you raise on your own personal fundraising pages will automatically also be allocated to their house team page.
If you do register to swim, please email/DM bignold.k@saintaug.nsw.edu.au with the names of the swimmers and times you will be swimming. Many thanks!
To fundraise or donate, here are the House fundraising pages that can be shared with friends and family when you're ready to start fundraising (Remember they need to buy their “ticket”/register to swim first for your name to appear on the Team page):
Click here to volunteer. Jobs that need filling (suitable for Years 10 – adults): Set up crew, BBQ, Registration Desk, Swim Marshalls, Water Safety (must have Bronze Medallion or above), Break down/tidy up.
So many ways to get involved in the local community and make a positive difference!
Kathryn Bignold Head of SEA (Service, Education & Awareness)
Student Wellbeing
What's been happening in AWE? | Does your U16 still have a social media account? | Parent learning opportunities
What’s been happening in AWE?
Over the past few weeks in AWE, our boys have been engaging deeply in three key experiences that sit at the heart of our Augustinian approach to wellbeing. In Mates@Saints, our Year 10 leaders have been guiding Year 7 students through structured conversations and team challenges designed to build trust, belonging and confidence. It has been powerful to watch older boys model encouragement, humour and quiet leadership while younger students find their place in the group. In Saints Circle, tutor groups have been practising reflection, listening and respectful dialogue, strengthening their capacity for interiority, that pause between stimulus and response where character is formed. And in our Me Helping Me sessions, students have explored practical strategies for self-regulation, help-seeking and personal responsibility, reinforcing that wellbeing is something we can actively cultivate. Each of these experiences is intentionally shaped around PERMA, building positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning and accomplishment in ways that are practical, relational and grounded in our College values.
Does your under 16 still have a social media account?
I have had many conversations with parents who have expressed their concern to me about this. I thought I’d share some extracts from the latest thoughts of SafeonSocial founder Kirra Prendergast on this issue:
‘Confusion has a way of spreading faster than truth, and right now confusion is spreading through our school communities about Australia’s "ban" on social media for children under 16 years. I can hear it in the voices of parents who are worried their child has done something illegal. I can see it in students who believe they are one login away from punishment. I can feel it among staff who are unsure where their legal responsibilities begin and end.
Australia did not ban children from social media. Australia banned social media companies from providing services to children below the minimum age. Under the Online Safety Act 2021, which you can read in full at https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2021A00076 , the legal responsibility sits with platforms.
If your thirteen or fourteen-year-old has a social media profile, they are not breaking Australian law. You, as parents, have not committed a criminal offence. Educators are not legally liable because a student under sixteen has an account. The legislation does not create criminal penalties for young people who are on platforms below the minimum age. This law was designed to shift accountability upward, not downward. It targets corporate systems, not children navigating a digital world built by adults for them.
But there is another layer to this that concerns me even more. When young people believe they will be punished simply for being on social media under 16 years, they go quiet when something goes wrong. If a child believes admitting they are on a platform will get them into trouble, they are less likely to report when a conversation turns threatening, or an image is shared without consent. We need students to understand a fundamental concept. If something online makes them feel uncomfortable, frightened, pressured or unsafe, they will not be punished for having an account. They will be supported.
If a child is experiencing cyberbullying, image-based abuse, sexual extortion or any form of online harm, support exists. The eSafety Commissioner provides reporting tools and direct assistance at https://www.esafety.gov.au The Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation operates through the Australian Federal Police at https://www.accce.gov.au Kids Helpline offers confidential counselling for young people on 1800 55 1800 and at https://kidshelpline.com.au
According to the eSafety Commissioner’s own research, a significant proportion of Australian children report negative online experiences before the age of sixteen. Let us prepare our young people not with fear, but with literacy, boundaries and open channels of communication.
We can build a culture where a child who fears what is happening on a screen feels safer walking into a classroom or a kitchen and saying, I need help. That is the standard we need to set.’
Parent Learning Opportunities
From the Black Dog Institute:
Teen Mental Health Matters: For Parents and Carers
Date & Time: Mar 23, 2026 07:00 PM
Join us for an insightful and empowering webinar focused on providing strategies and resources to help you in supporting your teen. Delivered by an expert clinician, these webinars will explore:
- How to make sense of adolescence.
- Identify signs of mental health struggles.
- Understand how to support your teen.
- Know where you and your teen can get support.
This webinar is free and open to all parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in supporting the mental health of teens in their care. Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey towards greater well-being for you and your family!
Academic Care
Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize
Do you love science? Are you a film maker? Enter the Sleek Geeks Science Film competition!
See below information and contact Ms Hildreth in Learning Enhancement ASAP if interested.
Liza Hildreth Learning Enhancement
Learning Enhancement - Occupational Therapy
Let’s Go Occupational Therapy, led by occupational therapist Jessica Simpson, supports students at St Augustine’s College to build the skills they need to feel confident and succeed at school.
Occupational therapy can help with handwriting, organisation, planning, attention, self-regulation, and independence with everyday classroom tasks. Sessions are held at school during the day, so support is practical, tailored to your child, and linked directly to what they do in the classroom.
If you’d like to find out more or see how occupational therapy could help your child, please get in touch with Jessica Simpson:
Excursion Report | Soirée Report | Primary School Music Enrichment Class | Instrumental Music and Private Music Tuition Program
Year 9 Music Gamelan Music Excursion Report
The Year 9 Elective Music class had a wonderful experience at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by Mitchell from the Open Academy, who guided us to the Gamelan studio. Gamelan, which means Music Ensemble in Indonesian, was the focus of our visit. There, we met Belinda, a Gamelan specialist. She conducted a 90-minute workshop where the students learned and performed a traditional temple tune, featuring interlocking melodies on various instruments. After the workshop, we enjoyed a tour of the University, including visits to their three recital halls and the impressive Verbrugghen Hall.
Amelia Granturco Music Teacher
Year 12 Music Soirée Report
The Music Department hosted the Year 12 Music Soirée last Tuesday 17 February, bringing together parents, staff and students for an engaging afternoon of performance and celebration. The concert featured the Year 12 Music 1 class presenting repertoire drawn from their HSC Core topic areas.
The program offered a rich and varied musical experience, showcasing an impressive range of styles, instruments and vocal works. Audience members were able to appreciate the significant musical growth students have achieved since the Preliminary Course and observe their progress as they prepare for the HSC Music Practical Examinations later this year.
A central focus of the Soirée was the opportunity for students to perform in a formal concert environment. This experience extended beyond the performance itself, with students later engaging in structured self-assessment to reflect critically on their work. This reflective process continues to play an important role in developing their musical independence, technical refinement and artistic maturity assessment to reflect critically on their work. This reflective process continues to play an important role in developing their musical independence, technical refinement and artistic maturity.
The success of the event was a testament to the high level of preparation demonstrated by the students and the dedicated support of the Music staff. The Soirée provided a meaningful platform to celebrate musical learning, commitment and excellence within the Year 12 cohort. The Music Department extends its thanks to all who attended and supported the students on this important milestone in their HSC journey.
Primary School Music Enrichment Class 2026 (formerly IGNITE Music Class)
The College is committed to delivering a high quality, holistic education. As part of this commitment, the Music Enrichment Class 2026 is offered to high potential and gifted Primary School musicians as an extension opportunity within the College’s enrichment programs quality, holistic education. As part of this commitment, the Music Enrichment Class 2026 is offered to high potential and gifted Primary School musicians as an extension opportunity within the College’s enrichment programs.
The Music Enrichment Class 2026 is designed to challenge and inspire students, allowing them to work closely with the teacher in a student-centred learning environment. Through this collaborative approach, students accelerate the development of their performance and creative skills on their chosen instrument or voice-centred learning environment. Through this collaborative approach, students accelerate the development of their performance and creative skills on their chosen instrument or voice.
In Semester One, the Music Enrichment Class 2026 will operate as a project-based course. Students will work together as a rock/pop showband to create, rehearse and perform a set of music for performances both within the College and in the wider community. There may also be opportunities for students to professionally record some of their work-based course. Students will work together as a rock/pop showband to create, rehearse and perform a set of music for performances both within the College and in the wider community. There may also be opportunities for students to professionally record some of their work.
Information and application forms will be distributed to parents shortly. Entry into the program is by audition, with students selected based on their musical strengths as well as their ability to work creatively and collaboratively with others.
For further information about the Music Enrichment Class 2026, please contact Alan Caulfield, Head of Music, at Caulfield.a@saintaug.nsw.edu.auu.
Value of Instrumental Music and Private Music Tuition Program
Playing a musical instrument offers numerous benefits in human development. Music is an essential part of culture and identity, often performed collaboratively in ensembles. Studies link music to increased intelligence in students, but the benefits extend beyond that. Learning an instrument develops academic capacity, physical ability, and social skills simultaneously.
As the new school year begins, all students are encouraged to take up learning an instrument. Private tuition in various instruments and voice is available at the College. For more information and to access the enrollment form, visit here.
Well, what a weekend. Stinking hot all day Saturday, and a complete turnaround in temperature on Sunday with southerly winds leading to a strong headwind for our runners. St Augustine’s College were represented by 15 boys at Regionals this year, which is a huge achievement considering we have only been operating as a Co-curricular activity for two years. A huge congratulations to each and everyone of you, and to the parents for driving your boys to Mingara. Many Personal Best's and qualifications to State, which is run over two weekends in March. More details to follow.
Please see below results from over the weekend:
Cameron Tizzard - SAOB2025: 1st in U20's 100m with a new record, 1st in U20's Long Jump with a new record, 2nd in U20's High Jump
Charlie Watkins - Year 10: 1st in 16's 400m with a new record, 3rd in 16's 400m Hurdles
Liam Robinson - Year 10: 1st in 16's 1500m with a new record
Wiil King - Year 9: 7th in 15's 100m Hurdles, 7th in 15's Javelin
Sebastian Tizzard - Year 9: 8th in 15's 200m, 12th in 15's 100m
Tasman Vale - Year 8: 2nd in 14's 1500m
Beau Riches - Year 8: 6th in 14's High Jump, 8th in 14's Triple Jump
Isaac Han - Year 8: 7th in 14's 800m
Marco Tavoletti - Year 7: 7th in 12's High Jump, 4th in 12's Long Jump, 3rd in 12's Triple Jump
Freddie McVicar - Year 6: 9th in 12's Javelin
Hudson McGregor - Year 6: 1st in 12's 200m, 1st in 12's Long Jump, 2nd in 12's 100m, 3rd in 12's 80m Hurdles
Liam Tyson - Year 5: 5th in 11's 400m, 5th in 11's 800m, 3rd in 11's 1500m
Archie Whitehead - Year 5: 10th in 11's Shot Putt
Van Jordan - Year 5: 1st in 11's Discus with a new record, 2nd in 11's Shot Putt, 5th in 11's Javelin, 14th in 11's High Jump
Archer Lane - Year 5: 1st in 11's 1100m Race Walk, 11th in 11's Javelin, 14th in 11's 80m Hurdles.
Well done boys. You should all feel very proud of your achievements.
Community
P&F News
I’m Roni, and I’m really proud to be part of the Saints P&F team.
On behalf of the P&F, we’re genuinely excited to come together with a shared purpose, to be a bridge between the wonderful parent community and the school. At the heart of everything we do is one clear goal: to support our boys and help create the best possible school experience, so they graduate as capable, grounded and strong young men, ready for the adult world.
The P&F plays an important role in supporting school events, strengthening community connection, and acting as the eyes and ears of parents. We aim to ensure that school leadership feels close to the ground, listening, understanding and, where appropriate, using parent insight to inform thoughtful decision-making.
The work we do is both purposeful and enjoyable, because ultimately it’s about doing our very best for our children. As the saying goes, it takes a village, and that truly is our motto.
If you’d like to be involved in any way, whether through an ongoing role or ad hoc support at events, we’d love to hear from you at pandf@saintaug.nsw.edu.au. Every contribution, big or small, is valued and appreciated.
A Global Reunion: Celebrating the Year of the Horse
The 2026 Chinese New Year Celebration at St Augustine’s College was a vibrant testament to our school's College’s diverse community, bringing together international families and staff for an evening of shared heritage and joy.
The event was a massive success, beginning with a collaborative effort as international parents worked alongside the International Office to provide beautiful table and room decorations. For our international families, this evening represented more than just a festival; it was a vital opportunity to feel at home within the College community while sharing their rich cultural traditions with others.
An Authentic "Oz" Welcome: The Leadership Team BBQ
One of the most well-received highlights of the evening was the communal dinner, which offered a uniquely authentic Australian experience. At 6pm, members of the College Leadership Team took to the grills to prepare a traditional charcoal BBQ for all guests. This gesture of service provided a warm "Aussie" welcome to our international families, blending the flavours of a classic Australian cookout with the spirit of the Lunar New Year. The relaxed atmosphere of the BBQ facilitated group activities and meaningful connections between families and staff.
A Stage Full of Talent
The celebration was anchored by a spectacular lineup of student performances that showcased the immense talent within our international cohort. The night opened with a warm-up session by Year 5 student Joseph Yuan and his father. Artistic flair was on full display as Aiden (Year 10) performed on the violin, Leo Zhou (Year 11) took to the keyboard, and Year 12 students Lee Li and Jason Zhang provided a contemporary edge with bass and guitar. Connor Jiang, Zhenghao Connor (Year 10) captivated the audience with guitar and singing, while Eric Yang (Year 10) added a unique dimension to the evening with a live drawing performance. Finally, the program featured powerful speeches from Jerry Fu (Year 8) and Rango Ku (Year 11), following formal welcomes from Principal Jonathan Byrne and International Student Prefect Paklam Zhao (Year 12).
Traditional Red Envelopes
A highlight of the evening was the distribution of traditional red envelopes by staff to the international students. These envelopes, or hongbao, are a significant Lunar New Year tradition symbolising energy, happiness, and good luck, serving as a gesture of prosperity for the students’ upcoming academic year.
A Legacy of Connection: The Parental Address
The evening concluded with a deeply moving address from Mr. Shen, representing the family of Richard Shen (Year 8). As a long-standing member of the St Augustine’s College community, Mr. Shen shared a proud family legacy: his older son, Martin Shen, graduated from the College last year and is currently pursuing a double degree at the University of Sydney. Speaking on behalf of his family, he spoke highly of the College’s inclusive environment, emphasising how much they value the supportive community that has nurtured both of his sons. His words served as a perfect conclusion to the night, reminding all in attendance that while we celebrate different traditions, we are united as one College family.
A Special Thank you goes to our student leaders who acted as cultural ambassadors. By utilising translation apps to engage in bilingual conversations, they ensured that language was no barrier to building community ties.
you goes to our student leaders who acted as cultural ambassadors. By utilising translation apps to engage in bilingual conversations, they ensured that language was no barrier to building community ties.
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