National Reconciliation Week is celebrated between 27 May and 3 June. These dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey— the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision respectively.

This year's theme is Be a Voice for Generations. The theme encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives – where we live, work and socialise. It is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians. Over the last half century many significant steps towards reconciliation have been taken. However, Reconciliation is an ongoing journey that reminds us that while generations of Australians have fought hard for meaningful change, future gains are likely to take just as much, if not more, effort. 

National Reconciliation Week is important because it provides a focus for working towards the goal of a just equitable and reconciled Australia. It is an ideal time for organisations, schools, universities, community groups and workplaces to advance understanding of reconciliation within their own places and their own lives.  Students at St Matthews will have the opportunity to learn more about reconciliation and participate in various activities this week. I encourage you to start a conversation at home about what reconciliation means and how we can contribute to the building of stronger relationships amongst all Australians.

Information in this article has been sourced from https://nrw.reconciliation.org.au

God bless

Angela Myles | Executive Principal 

It was pleasing to see so many students wearing club colours or jerseys last Friday. It was a nice way to round out Wellbeing Week. The idea that was discussed regarding the day was to be a supporter not a critic. It is sometimes human nature to find fault in something or someone and at times, particularly when we are fatigued, we can buy into our peers' negativity and criticism without really giving much thought to it. The consequence of this negativity is that other people are impacted and it doesn’t necessarily make us (the critic) feel any better. It is important that we try to live the Gospel values at all times and accept that things will not always be done the way we would do them or that we always will agree with the outcome.

There are many assessment tasks occurring across all year groups at the moment. It may be a good time to check in with your child/ren and see what they are learning about to ensure that they are on top of their study timetable and that they are putting the appropriate work into all of their subjects.

God bless

Justin McCarney | Head of Campus

Sandy Abbey | Leader of Mission K-12

Parish News

Navigating Adolescence

Adolescence is a significant developmental stage marking the transition from childhood to adulthood. It is characterised by an emerging sense of self-identity, exploration of personal interests, beliefs, values and goals, increased independence and autonomy beyond the family, growing responsibility, increased engagement in risk behaviours, emerging sexuality, amplified significance of peers, intensification of gender stereotypes, and shifting relationships with parents and caregivers. Adolescents seek increased independence and autonomy, which requires ongoing negotiation and compromise within the parent-child relationship.

Follow this link to School TV to find out more about how you can support your child navigate adolescence https://stmattsmudgee.catholic.schooltv.me/newsletter/understanding-adolescence 

The use of mobile phones and technology in schools has been a highly debated topic internationally, including in Australia. Almost all states and territories in Australia, have implemented full bans on mobile phones during class, recess, and lunch times, while allowing students to carry their phones during travel to and from school.

Critics argue that there is no evidence supporting the effectiveness of such bans, but this is a mischaracterisation. Studies have shown the positive impacts of mobile phone bans in schools. One study conducted in 2016, found that banning mobile phones led to an increase in student performance, with test scores improving by 6.4% of a standard deviation. Similar studies from Spain and Norway also supported these findings.

For parents concerned about mobile phone separation anxiety in their children, it is important to acknowledge it as a real issue and discuss the negative effects of phone addiction, such as sleep problems and mental health issues. Gradually introducing phone-free periods at home, setting clear expectations and boundaries and modelling healthy behaviours can help your child cope. It is also crucial to establish a support network and seek professional help if needed. Implementing mobile phone bans in schools allows for better focus on teaching and learning, minimising distractions and interruptions.

This Special Report will help address mobile phone separation anxiety and provide guidance on supporting your child’s wellbeing during this transition period. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please consider seeking medical or professional help.

Click on this link to view the Special Report https://stmattsmudgee.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-mobile-phone-separation-anxiety

Dillon Price | Leader of Wellbeing K-12

Celebrating Careers Week - ‘Try a Trade’

Try a Trade in 2023 was bigger and better than ever. Year 10 had a wonderful time exploring the different Trades showcasing their industries. A big thank you to Skillset and Moolarben who significantly fund the day and to all the exhibitors and local businesses who gave up their time to be an exhibitor. Our students were all appreciative of this opportunity and spoke very positively about it. Building positive relationships between local businesses and schools is very important - particularli in rural towns such as ours… and we are very grateful.

Thank you to all exhibitors…..

Yilabara solutions; Carpentry - MHS; Mudgee Little Learners; Anytime Fitness; MEGT; Skillset; SES-Mudgee; A1 Earthworx; VRA Mudgee; Real FM; Moolarben; TAFE NSW; Double R; Bricklaying - MHS; Hairdressing-MHS; McDonalds; Cummins; Lifeskills Plus; Iron Therapy fitness; Lowe Wines; Police Mudgee; Fire and rescue; RFS; O’Ryan Geospatial

  

Year 12 News…

  

The University of Newcastle are hosting some ‘local’ info sessions

Parents and careers of students thinking about studying at the University of Newcastle in 2023 are invited to some ‘drop in’ sessions in Bathurst, Dubbo & Tamworth. Follow the links below for more details.

Parents & Carers Drop in Session - Bathurst

Parents & Carers Drop in Sessions - Dubbo

  

University of Newcastle - Parents & Careers Information Session

In case you missed the UoN Parents info session held by webinar a few weeks ago - the link is Here

  

Year 12 - University Early Entry programs Open for 2024:

UAC Early Entry - Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS)

SRS is the Early Entry program coordinated by UAC. It opens on 5 April and closes on Monday 18 September. ALL student’s who apply to university through UAC should apply for SRS. It is free, and allows them the opportunity to be made an offer before the ATAR results are released.

Refer to the UAC link below for some basic Early Entry Offer information including links and dates for specific universities (UAC aligned uni’s only NOT an exhaustive list). UAC - Early Entry Schemes

Glencore Apprenticeships-2024 applications close online 18 June

Glencore (Ulan Coal) are seeking applications from students in Years 10, 11 and 12 who would be interested in an apprenticeship with Glencore.

For further information & videos on the apprenticeship program including apprenticeships in Auto Electrician; Metal fabrication; Mechanical (underground); Electrician; Plant Mechaniccan be accessed here

      

Trades and Jobs in the Defence Force

Studying for trade and gaining qualifications through the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is a great option for many students. There are information sessions being held across NSW that will provide a great insight into the programs and benefits of gaining qualifications throough the ADF. Follow the links below to register for the information sessions or go to the ADF website for information.

Mittagong Information session here

Wollongong Information session here

Cronulla Information session here

 

All Hallows visit

Last week we visited All Hallows Primary school to talk to the Year 5/6 class about a secondary school experience at St Matthews Catholic school, Mudgee. We were lucky to have current Year 7 students Ned and Maggie to help answer all their questions. We look forward to hosting many of the students on our first Orientation Day - 10 August.

 

Blaney McCarthy - English | Leader of Transition

Athletics Carnival 

On Thursday 19th May, students attend the Secondary Athletics Carnival at Walkers Oval. The carnival was for the first time a carnival held for Secondary students only. This presented an opportunity for students to compete in all events on the day, with no pre qualifying.

In the spirit of the carnival, students showed house support, enthusiasm and eagerness to try most events on the day. Competitors demonstrated the St Matthew’s Way where they not only competed but encouraged their peers to participate and succeed. Competitors had the opportunity to compete in the following events: 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, Long Jump, Triple Jump, High Jump, Discus, Shot put and Javelin.

Congratulations to those who have been successful in their progression to the Diosecan Athletics Carnival which will be held on Thursday 17th August in Dubbo. Notes and communication about this carnival will be out early next term.

At the next whole school assembly in week 8, age champions will be presented with their medals and house champions will be announced. All students who placed 1st, 2nd and 3rd should expect to receive their ribbons for placement after the assembly.

Emma Nicholls | Sport Coordinator Secondary 

CCC Rugby

Congratulations to Rosie Webb of Year 10 who recently was selected for NSWCCC U18 7’s Rugby. This is a wonderful achievement which is more remarkable given that Rosie is in Year 10 and playing in a side made up of mostly Year 12 girls. The 7’s program culminates with the NSW All Schools Selections held over two days at the end of Week 9. We wish Rosie all the best for the upcoming games. She is pictured here with Mr McCarney who is coaching the NSWCCC U16 Rugby (boys). Mr McCarney’s program culminates with the NSW All Schools Carnival held over the weekend at the end of week 9.

Justin McCarney | Head of Campus 

All Schools 9/10 Touch Football Competition

On the 10th of May, a number of Year 9 and 10 students travelled to Orange to participate in the Western Schools Touch Football Carnival. The girls team consisted of Addison Bailey, Sophie Coe, Phoebe Copps, Madison Furney, Annabel Hawes, Alex Hawkins, Jemima Lee, Kayla Morrissey, Madison O’Brien, Chloe Palmer and Makayla Wright.

The girls played four games throughout the day. They started off strong with their first game against Red Bend winning 6-0. The second game against Canobolas High School they went down 1-4. The third game against Orange high was a draw 2-2 and James Sheahan was very impressive with a 5-1 loss in their final game. The girls showed great sportsmanship throughout the day.

The Boys team consisted of Connor McLean (C), Spencer Comincioli, Riley Durrant, Bailey Fehon, Toby Forrester, Jaxon Griffith, Angus Litter, Ryan McWhirter, Harry Riley, Tully Robertson, Charlie Smallcomb and Harrison Smith. Jacob Stoddart assisted with coaching the team and did an amazing job on the day.

The boys played 4 round games (2 wins, 1 loss & 1 draw), placing 2nd in their pool. This qualified the boys into the semi-finals. The boys played Orange High in the finals but unfortunately lost by a narrow margin.

Congratulations to all players who showed natural talent , grit and determination throughout the day.

Emma Kurtz and Jessica Jenkins | Coaches

Under 14s Rugby League

The Under 14 Rugby League Team travelled to Red Bend Catholic College Forbes for a Rugby League Gala Day. There were a number of competitions run on the day and we were entered into a 9 a side competition.

The boys played three games during the day. Firstly against a side from Red Bend Catholic College who they beat quite convincingly. They then played against Parkes Christian School where they had a narrow victory10-8. Finally they played against a team from St John's College, Dubbo and once again they had a comprehensive victory. Three games with success in each of them, congratulations boys.

The boys were wonderful ambassadors of our school.

Justin McCarney | Coach  

Upcoming events - Term 2

• Secondary Country Cup Rugby League (Dubbo) - Tuesday 6th June
• Bill Turner Trophy Round 3 (Bathurst) - Tuesday 6th June
• CCC Cross Country (Sydney Equestrian Centre) - Tuesday 13th June
• Secondary All Schools Netball (Bathurst) - Thursday 15th June