Filter Content
- Principal's News
- Staff in the Spotlight - Mrs Miriam Shilling
- RE Matters
- Assistant Principal Pastoral Care
- Assistant Principal Curriculum, Learning and Innovation
- VET and Careers News
- TAS News
- Administration News
- Business Manager News
- Wellbeing Coordinator News
- Carroll College Musical
- Sporting News
- HSIE Coordinator News
- Year 9 Pastoral Day - Embracing Resilience
- Science News
- NAIDOC Celebrations
- Non-government schools census collection notice 2025
- Community News



Dear Parents, Students and Friends
As we move into our mid-year break, I take this opportunity to thank all families for their ongoing support and wish everyone a safe and enjoyable break. Thank you to the many families and staff who were able to attend our musical last week, We Will Rock You: School Edition by Queen and Ben Elton. It was an outstanding production, showcasing the talent of our students and staff at Carroll College. Mrs Ros Maher, was celebrated for her leadership as Musical Director of the past 14 college musicals, alongside Mr Matt King; Director, Mrs Teagan Lomax, Assistant Director, Mrs Anna Smart, Producer, Mrs Belle Barling, Costume Designer, Mrs Anna Voysey-McManus, Choreographer, Mrs Janette Soper, Assistant Choreographer Ms Alicia Bate, Mr Luke Fuller, Backstage Manager, and Miss Claire Reid, Sound Manager. A huge thank you and congratulations to our cast and crew, and all who assisted behind the scenes with planning and preparation to deliver a memorable production that was appreciated by all.
Catholic Education Canberra Goulburn welcomes new Executive Director, Dr David de Carvalho
New Executive Director for the Archdiocese, Dr de Carvalho commenced in his new role last week. It has been a pleasure to welcome him, and already he has met with all Principals, and made contact with me on Wednesday to ensure our college community was fine amidst the severe weather warnings this week.
In an article published in the Catholic Voice earlier this week, Dr de Carvalho writes about his vision for Catholic Education saying, “…my first thought was, well it won’t be MY vision; it will be OUR vision. For a vision to become reality requires that it is developed in collaboration with the people who will be responsible for making it happen.” A commitment to consultation and collaboration is at the heart of Dr de Carvalho’s leadership approach. He emphasises the importance of working together with school leaders, teachers, staff, families, and the broader Catholic community to shape a shared vision that reflects the mission of Catholic Education. His focus on fostering collaboration aligns with the core Catholic principles of solidarity, subsidiarity, and the common good, ensuring that the diverse needs of each school community are respected and valued.
Dr de Carvalho's early engagement with Principals and his proactive support during this week's severe weather events demonstrate his commitment to prioritising the wellbeing and safety of students and staff. As Catholic Education Canberra and Goulburn moves forward under his leadership, there is great anticipation for the collective growth and renewal that will stem from this unified and inclusive approach.
South Coast Schools Excellence in Vocational Education & Training Awards 2025
I am delighted to announce that the following students have been nominated for the prestigious South Coast VET Student of the Year Awards. Each has been recognised with a Certificate of Excellence in their respective courses and has been invited to participate in interviews today, Friday, 4 July, at Hanging Rock:
Hospitality:
- Justin Murphy
- Beau Mullins
- Ava Jameson
Business Services:
- Jed Ware
- Akin Suksing
- Marlee Bennett
We are immensely proud of these outstanding students for their dedication and achievements. Their nominations are a testament to their hard work and commitment, and we are confident they will represent our college with pride and distinction. We wish them every success during the selection process.
Mrs Dalgleish, Mrs Kenna, Ms Paull, and I look forward to attending the awards presentation on 6 August 2025 at Moruya Golf Club, where we will celebrate their accomplishments and the broader excellence in vocational education and training.
NAIDOC Week 2025, running from 6 - 13 July, is a time to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, invites all Australians to engage in meaningful reflection and action towards reconciliation and unity. At our college, we are committed to honouring the rich heritage of the First Nations peoples through a range of activities, including art projects, storytelling, and workshops led by local Elders. Please come along to our Yuin Bunaan Cultural Day on 23 July at Captain Oldrey Park, Broulee.
NAIDOC Week is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to respect and preserve the traditions of the world’s oldest continuous cultures, in alignment with our Catholic values of dignity, justice, and solidarity.
School resumes for all students for Term 3 on Tuesday 22 July.
With respect and encouragement to you.
Mrs Jacqueline Heffernan
Principal
“The Holy Spirit reminds us first and foremost that we are children loved by God –
everyone equal in God’s love, and everyone different.” (Pope Francis)
Standing in Solidarity, Upholding Human Dignity
Yesterday, Carroll College officially launched its annual St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal with a Winter Woolies Day organised to raise awareness and funds for those in our local community doing it tough this winter. Students and staff came dressed in scarves, beanies and coats, enjoying the warmth while also being reminded of the harsh realities faced by many across our region.
Next term, we look ahead to one of the most meaningful events on our social justice calendar, the Carroll College Winter Sleepout. This powerful initiative will see students and staff spending a night in the school hall to experience, in a small way, what it’s like to go without a warm bed. More than just a symbolic act, the Sleepout fosters empathy and raises vital funds for those at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
If you’d like to support this initiative, donations can be made via our fundraising page: https://shoutforgood.com/fundraisers/CarrollCollegeWinterSleepout
The need is very real. According to the most recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and regional support services:
● Over 500 people are experiencing homelessness across the Eurobodalla and Bega Valley regions.
● Canberra currently records some of the highest rates of homelessness per capita in the country.
● Family violence, lack of affordable housing, and financial hardship remain leading causes of homelessness across the South Coast.
At the heart of this campaign is the core Catholic Social Teaching of Human Dignity. This principle reminds us that every person, regardless of circumstance, is created in the image and likeness of God and is worthy of respect, safety and care. Through our efforts, we aim not only to provide practical support but also to affirm the inherent dignity of every individual who finds themselves without a home.
We thank our Carroll College community for their continued generosity, compassion and action. Together, we live out our call to be people of justice, hope and love in action.
“Whatever you did for the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40
Mrs Anna Smart
Religious Education Coordinator
Assistant Principal Pastoral Care
Congratulations to all our students on a highly successful Term 2 and the completion of Semester 1 2025. In particular, I would like to acknowledge our Homeroom teachers, class teachers, support staff and Coordinators who greet our students every day and support them in a myriad of ways. Every day this dedicated team of professionals devote their energy to ensuring that our students are striving to do their best in an environment that fosters their wellbeing and our families are supported.
This term, Miss Ellisha Large stepped into the role of Pastoral Assistant (Acting) while Mr Ryan Bissell stepped into the Acting Xavier Coordinator role. Thank you both for your wonderful contributions across the term.
To conclude the term, the House Coordinators' reports are below.
Chisholm News
Chisholm Pastoral Leader
MacKillop News
"Have courage, no matter what your crosses are."
What a busy first semester! Well done to all MacKillop students, in particular Year 7 for continuing to step up and those students who began with us this year.
Congratulations to the many students who have been involved in the many extra-curricular activities offered here at the college. Be it the swimming, cross country and athletic carnivals, well done to those who competed as representatives of MacKillop House. There were also many students who participated in the numerous sports at a local and representative level - well done!
It was great to see so many MacKillop students, on and off the stage involved in the college musical last week. Archie Cockram, Leana Browne and Lukas Muir were fantastic!
Special mention to the MacKillop Students listed below who are now members of the SRC.
Year 7- Gabriel Cruz
Year 8 - Hugo Muir, Malachi Condon and Chloe Johnson-Pepper
Year 9 - Jasmine Casagrande and Erica Shalders
Year 11 - Olivia Johnson-Pepper and Sophee McFadyen
Well done and thanks for your initiative. I am confident you will all be wonderful advocates for your peers and drivers of positive change.
Celebrating achievements fuels momentum, as such, I encourage all students to acknowledge their academic success over the past semester. Equally important is recognising areas where you can develop. Building on your successes and addressing areas for growth with clear, actionable steps, will place you in good stead for Semester Two.
The efforts and dedication of the following students must be recognised - MacKillop Marvels - for their outstanding attendance and/or achieving a high number of Sentral Awards this semester. Well done!
For 100% attendance:
Matthew Shalders
Owen McDonald
Cici Steinke
Erica Shalders
Max Colbourne
For a high number of Sentral Awards:
Ky Nelson
Matthew Shalders
Mitchell Whipp
Owen McDonald
Cici Steinke
Molly Ward
Brodie Martin
The MacKillop team thanks all parents and carers for their ongoing support and we look forward to working with you for the remainder of the year. Please continue to reach out if you have any concerns or your child/ren needs support.
As we head into Semester 2, may we all find inspiration in the life and works of St Mary MacKillop, whose unwavering dedication to education, compassion for the marginalised, and steadfast faith in the face of adversity continue to guide us toward fostering justice, kindness, and service.
Mr Greg McAteer
MacKillop Pastoral Leader
Xavier News
A Busy and Inspiring Start to 2025
What a fantastic and action-packed first semester it’s been! Congratulations to all Xavier students for their commitment and enthusiasm – especially our Year 7 cohort, who have embraced high school life with energy and maturity, and to all new students who joined us this year. You’ve made a strong start and we’re proud of your efforts.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time acting as Xavier House Pastoral Coordinator whilst Mrs Lyttle has been on leave. Having the opportunity to connect with students and families to help ensure a sense of belonging and connection to Carroll College has been the highlight for me. We do welcome Mrs Lyttle back in Term 3 and I know she will be very keen to reconnect with students and families and to start off Semester 2 on a positive note.
We commend the many Xavier students who embraced co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities this semester. Whether it was participating in the swimming, cross country, or athletics carnivals, or representing the College in local and representative sports – your involvement and house spirit has been exceptional.
A special shoutout goes to the Xavier students who shone both on and off stage in the recent College musical “We Will Rock You”. These performances occur every second year and this year was a truly amazing display of talent and commitment from all involved.
We’re also proud to acknowledge the students from Xavier who have been selected to serve on the Student Representative Council (SRC). Your leadership and initiative are appreciated, and we know you’ll be strong voices for your peers.
Congratulations to our Xavier SRC representatives:
Year 7: Sophie Asbury
Year 8: Emily Franklin, Kiera O'Sullivan
Year 11: Sophie Barling, Mikayla Cairney, Mikayla Cairney, Max Ivanoff
As we reflect on Semester 1, we encourage all students to celebrate their academic achievements while also identifying areas for growth. Recognising both success and opportunity helps us move forward with purpose and confidence into Semester 2.
I also encourage all students to embrace the diverse range of extra-curricular opportunities the College provides. Participating in sport, excursions, productions or community events enables you to connect with different students and builds on the important skills of communication and collaboration, both are vital skills to have in the current workforce environment.
We move into an important time for our senior students with HSC and trial exams all taking place along with students preparing for taking up opportunities in Work Experience and Vocational training.
Thank you to all Xavier families for your ongoing support. We value your partnership and look forward to working together in the second half of the year. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can assist your child in any way.
As we look ahead to Semester 2, may we be inspired by the values of St Francis Xavier – courage, compassion, and commitment – as we continue to grow together as a House of unity, service, and excellence.
Have a safe and happy winter holiday!
Mr Ryan Bissell
Xavier Pastoral Leader (Acting)
Child Safety
Keeping our children safe is something that requires parents, schools and the wider community to work together on. In our newsletters, invaluable information is often included. This week I would highly recommend parents visiting the e-Safety Commissioner website Online safety | eSafety Commissioner Taking time to scroll through the links to the latest information, FAQ’s, up to the minute articles and registering for the webinars they offer will allow us all to keep up with the rapidly changing online world our children inhabit.
Academic Care - Week 10
This week in our Academic Care period the following topics and activities were covered by students from Year 7 to Year 12:
Year 7 – Study Skills - Using class time
Year 8 - Study Skills - Using class time
Year 9 - Study Skills -Active studying
Year 10 - Wellio – Understanding stress
Year 11 – Leadership presentation and information about nominations
Year 12 - Trial preparation and key documentation to assist students
Uniform and learning equipment reminder
With the holidays about the start, families have another opportunity to check that their child has the correct materials for class and everything is in good working order. We ask that uniforms are checked to ensure that they comply with the College uniform expectations. If families need to purchase or replace uniform items, the following suppliers can assist; Hip Pocket, Stitches and Lowes in Batemans Bay or the College uniform shop for the sports uniform, jerseys, jackets and blazers.
During the holidays some students may have haircuts, let facial hair grow or get their nails painted etc. We understand that this is their holiday time from school but by the end of the break, students need to be ready to start the term compliant with college expectations.
I would like to wish everyone a relaxing break, so we return refreshed for Semester 2. Stay safe!
Kind regards
Mrs Louise Ibbett
Assistant Principal Pastoral Care
Assistant Principal Curriculum, Learning and Innovation
Dear Carroll Community,
We have finally arrived at the end of a very busy, action-packed semester at Carroll College. On reflection, we have witnessed our Year 12 cohort enter their final months of their High School Certificate studies and they are now preparing well for the upcoming trial HSC Examinations. Year 11 cohort have successfully completed their second term of the Preliminary course, and our Stage 4 and 5 students are halfway through the academic year. The Subject Selection process for Years 8, 9 and 10 is entering the final stages of the process. Students have actively involved themselves in the information evening, course talks and course counselling activities. Students are confident they are developing authentic patterns of study based on informed decisions via this process. Families and students will be informed of their final selections early Term Three.
Semester 1, Year 7-10 School Reports
Semester 1, Year 7-10 reports are now available for viewing for both parents and students. Can I encourage families to read through the reports together as they provide valuable insights into academic performance, strengths, areas for improvement, and progress over the first semester of this year. By understanding your child’s academic achievements, you can celebrate their successes, identify any challenges they may be facing, and offer the necessary support and guidance. The Semester 1 reports will highlight specific outcomes, learning behaviours and overall grade for each academic course. By carefully reviewing the semester report, you can identify any learning gaps or challenges your child may be experiencing. This awareness will allow you to collaborate with teachers in Term 3 and develop strategies to address these areas effectively, ensuring your child receives the necessary resources and assistance to succeed. Through the implementation of the Assessment @ Carroll website and the “Study Skills Handbook” resources in Academic Care, students can also engage in valuable resources to address any gaps in performance and learnings.
Learning Collaboratively
(Strategies for our HSC Students as they approach the final months of their HSC year)
We all have unique preferences when it comes to learning. Some students thrive in group settings, while others prefer solitary work. Certain individuals enjoy discussing topics over the phone or video calls, while some thrive in face-to-face collaborations. The saying "two heads are better than one" holds true, and it is interesting to explore how this applies to different types of students.
If you tend to work alone most of the time, there are a few aspects worth considering:
- It's commendable that you are self-sufficient and confident in your abilities. However, it's important to recognise that at times, not asking for help when needed can make things more challenging for yourself. Don't hesitate to seek assistance when facing difficulties or struggling to comprehend something. Asking for help is a valuable skill that contributes to academic success. Become more aware of your tendency to avoid asking for help and try to reach out when needed.
- Engaging in discussions with others often offers fresh perspectives and the opportunity to clarify your thoughts. By collaborating and exchanging ideas with another person, you may enhance the development of your own concepts and uncover potential issues that a new perspective can identify. If you haven't explored collaboration extensively, consider giving it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised by the value it adds to your learning experience.
On the other hand, if you already enjoy working with others, here are some points to keep in mind:
- Ensure that you contribute equally in group work and avoid relying on others to do all the work for you. Fair and balanced participation leads to a more productive and fulfilling collaborative environment.
- Remember that collaboration is distinct from cheating. While discussing an assignment and sharing thoughts on its approach is acceptable, it is not appropriate to jointly write the assignment or submit similar pieces of work. Maintain academic integrity and respect the boundaries of collaborative efforts.
- Stay focused and avoid wasting time during collaborative sessions. It's easy to get sidetracked, so make a conscious effort to remain on task and avoid distractions when working with others.
- Occasionally, challenge yourself to tackle tasks independently. If you consistently rely on your friends to complete your Maths homework, you may not truly gauge your own abilities. This lack of self-assessment can become problematic during tests or exams. Consider whether collaboration will genuinely enhance your work or if it is more suitable to attempt certain tasks on your own.
- Allocate specific time for independent work each night. If you prefer to collaborate while working from home, establish dedicated periods for collaboration and separate blocks for independent work. Avoid spending the entire evening on video calls with friends and instead create a balance between collaboration and individual effort.
By reflecting on these points and adapting your approach to learning, you can maximise your potential and create a well-rounded academic experience. Embrace the strengths of both solitary work and collaboration and leverage them accordingly to foster personal growth and academic achievement.
You and your parents can learn more about group work skills at www.studyskillshandbook.com.au by logging in with the details below and working through some of the units.
Our school’s username: Carrollcollege
Our school’s password: academiccare
Finally, I wish all our families a restful and relaxing break, and we look forward to a productive and rewarding Term Three ahead.
Warm regards
Mr Andrew Kenneally
Assistant Principal Curriculum, Learning and Innovation
VET News
2025 Workplace Learning South Coast VET Awards
We are pleased to announce that several of our outstanding students have been shortlisted for the South Coast VET Student Awards. These awards celebrate excellence in Vocational Education and Training (VET) across the Eurobodalla, recognising students who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and passion in their respective courses.
Today, our shortlisted students have taken part in interviews to determine who will proceed as finalists for the 2025 VET Awards. This is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and commitment to learning both in the classroom and the workplace. The interview process is a valuable opportunity for students to share their personal and professional growth through VET and reflect on their achievements and future goals.
We wish all our students the very best as they prepare to showcase their journeys in VET.
Hospitality:
Justin Murphy
Beau Mullins
Ava Jameson
Business Services:
Jed Ware
Akin Suskin
Marlee Bennett
Building Bright Futures Through Innovation and Hands-On Learning in VET Construction
This week marked an exciting and productive day for our VET Construction Early Commencement students, as they engaged in a range of activities showcasing the opportunities and rewards of pursuing a trade career. The day was filled with hands-on learning, collaboration, and valuable insights into the construction industry, all within the supportive and future-focused environment of Carroll College.
We began the day with a short interaction with Mr Szkwarek’s Construction Buddy; a virtual personal tutor powered by AI. This session allowed students to explore the trade areas they were most passionate about, setting the tone for an engaging and focused day ahead.
The students then viewed inspiring video clips from the Australian Constructors Association, highlighting the diverse experiences of industry professionals. These videos provided a comprehensive look at the growing opportunities within the trades sector, emphasising that skilled trades are rapidly becoming high-paying and fulfilling career pathways. Many tradespeople, some earning six-figure salaries or achieving financial independence in their early 20s, have built successful careers through apprenticeships and practical experience.
Motivated by these insights, students turned their attention to catching up on outstanding assessment tasks through our LMS Axcelerate Portal. This included work on Industry Basics and Project 1, ensuring they stayed on track with their learning goals. The morning’s activities culminated in hands-on project work in the workshop, where students collaboratively worked on completing their Oil Stone projects. They were also introduced to their next project and skill set which involves constructing a Tool Carry-All. A few students eagerly got started on this new project, demonstrating enthusiasm and teamwork.
A highlight of the day was our "Tradies Lunch," generously prepared by our VET Hospitality students. The classic bacon-and-egg roll with juice was a much-appreciated treat, showcasing the collaborative spirit between our VET courses. This sense of community and camaraderie truly added to the day’s success.
After lunch, the students returned to the workshop, fully immersed in their practical tasks. Their focus on working safely and collaboratively was commendable, and it was inspiring to see everyone supporting one another to achieve success. The day concluded with another thought-provoking video featuring primary and secondary students’ perspectives on the construction industry. This video, part of the "Disrupt or Die" campaign, underscored the need for innovation and transformation within the industry to address workforce shortages.
The students left the workshop with a sense of pride in their accomplishments and a deeper appreciation for the many opportunities that a career in trades can offer. It was a day that truly reflected the values of Carroll College: fostering curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
We would like to thank our dedicated VET Coordinator, Amy Dalgleish for making this day such a success and to Julie Davis for her support for the day. This continues to highlight the importance of Vocational Education and Training as a pathway to meaningful careers, and we are proud of the way our students embraced every opportunity presented to them today.
Warm regards,
Jason Szkwarek
VET Construction Teacher
Carroll College
CAREERS News
Year 10 Work Experience – A Week of Discovery and Growth!
Last week, our Year 10 students stepped out of the classroom and into the workforce for their Work Experience Program – and what a week it was!
Students explored a diverse range of industries, including hospitality, retail, construction, health care, education, and creative arts. From assisting in classrooms to shadowing tradespeople, they gained valuable insights into the world of work and discovered new interests and skills.
Many students shared how much they enjoyed their time, meeting professionals, learning hands-on, and experiencing the day-to-day realities of different careers. It was a fantastic opportunity to build confidence, develop communication skills, and start thinking about future pathways.
We’re proud of the way our students represented the school and embraced the challenge. A big thank you to all the local businesses and organisations who hosted and mentored our students!
University of Wollongong
UOW Early Entry
Applications Open: Monday 16 June
Close: 8 August 2025
https://www.uow.edu.au/early-admission/?authuser=0#d.en.374221
HSC Subject Support Series
The Year 11 & 12 Subject Support Sessions are designed to help students improve their knowledge and understanding of key subject content and discover what HSC exam markers are looking for. Experienced HSC teachers/markers and UOW staff will be running subject revision programs across May, June and July for current Year 11 and Year 12 students.
Register for the below sessions here: https://future-students-events.uow.edu.au/Year11-12subjectsupport
Date |
Time |
Title |
Monday 23 June, 2025 |
5:30 -7pm |
Online Year 12 - Mathematics Advanced |
Tuesday 24 June, 2025 |
5:30 -7pm |
Online Year 12 - English Common Module (Advanced & Standard) |
Tuesday 8 July, 2025 |
10am - 12pm 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
In-person bootcamp - Wollongong campus English Advanced 10am - 12pm Maths Advanced 1pm - 3pm |
Wednesday, 9 July 2025 |
9:30 - 2:15pm |
In-person bootcamp - Wollongong campus Intensive Physics - Year 11 and Year 12 9:30am -11:30am: Theory Yr 12, Labs Yr 11 45 minute lunch break (lunch provided) 12:15pm - 2:15pm: Labs Yr 12, Theory Yr 11 |
PLUS, all attendees will receive an example exam paper with exemplar responses, so you can see exactly what top-tier answers look like and how to nail your own. *For our 'Intensive Session’ in Physics, we've kept the cost very low at $11 to help cover student lunches and materials. |
University of Canberra
University Canberra Early Entry
If you’re a current Year 12 student applying to UC for undergraduate study next year, you could receive an early admission offer under the Early Offer Scheme using criteria other than your ATAR.
Applications for Early Offers will open on 19th May 2025.
Important dates:
- 19 May 2025 : Applications open
- 17 August 2025 : Applications close
- 31 August 2025 : Early Offer document deadline
- 15 September 2025 : Offers released
What do I need to apply?
- Your official Year 11 NESA (NSW) report
- A 300-word personal statement about which course you are interested in studying, and why you have chosen to apply for these courses at the University of Canberra.
To find out more and to start your application, click here.
University Capitals Careers in Sports
Do you have students interested in jobs in the sporting realm? UC Capitals Executive General Manager, Christy Collier-Hill, is running school-based workshops to help students explore what a career in sport might look like.
This hands-on opportunity gives students a behind-the-scenes look into the sports industry and a unique chance to connect with UC Capitals players and staff, hearing firsthand about the dedication, pathways, and experiences involved in both playing and working in professional sport.
The workshops are designed to inspire and inform students, offering guidance on what subjects, skills, and experiences are most valuable for building a future in the sporting world—whether on the court or behind the scenes.
To book this in for your school or to find out more, you can email Griffin Armitage [Griffin.Armitage@canberra.edu.au].
Need Application Help?
Do you have questions about applying to university? Not sure where to start with your Early Offer applications? We are here to help! If you want to someone from UC, you can book in a personalised consultation with one of our advisors to answer questions about anything university - differences between courses, pathways into ranked courses, how to apply and everything in between!
Aspire Open Day Camp
Do you live in rural/regional NSW and are thinking about coming to Open Day? Our Aspire Open Day Camp will help get you there! This is a fully funded opportunity for Year 11 and 12 rural/regional students and their parents/guardians to attend the University of Canberra Open Day on Saturday 20th September, including:
- One nights accommodation
- A personalised Open Day experience, including a meet and greet with a Student Success Coach
- Petrol Voucher, to assist your travel to and from Canberra.
- Follow up support to assist with your application and enrolment process.
To apply, write a 250 word description of what your future plans are once you finish high school and why this experience would help you achieve them.
Simply send your entry on the supplementary form and email it through to aspireuc@canberra.edu.au by Friday 18th July.
Holiday Tech Days: This School Holidays
Do you have a burning passion for IT? Want to experience what studying IT at university is like? Or just extend your skills in Cyber Security, AI, Python and more? Our Holiday Tech Days are for you! They are school holiday programs that don't just entertain but empower the next generation of tech innovators.
This school holidays we have two programs running, designed for students in Year 9-12:
Tuesday 8 July; 9.30am - 4.30pm: Python Essentials
Dive into the world of coding in an immersive, hands-on one day workshop. Students will have the opportunity to will explore Python – widely recognised as one of the most popular, versatile, and in-demand programming languages in the world today. Whether you're taking your first steps into coding or already have some programming experience under your belt, our instructors will guide you through the fundamentals of Python programming. You'll learn crucial concepts and practical techniques that will empower you to transform your creative ideas into working projects!
Monday 14 July; 9.30am-4.30pm: Level Up - Unity Game Dev. Workshop
Step into the world of game development and learn how to bring ideas to life using Unity! Unity is a versatile cross-platform game engine that enables developers of all skill levels to create interactive games and experiences using a visual editor, C# programming, and powerful built-in tools for graphics, physics, and animation. No prior coding skills required!
All workshops are run in UC's Innovation Central Lab with lunch and snacks included.
To find out more and register for these workshops, click here.
UC Capitals Holiday Camp
Lace up your sneakers, grab your friends, and join us for an epic day of basketball led by the UC Capitals' very own Nicole Munger and Nyadiew Puoch! Our UC Caps Holiday Camp offers young basketball enthusiasts the chance to enhance their skills alongside UC Caps players and coaches in a fun and supportive environment.
What’s Included:
- Expert Coaching: Each session will be led by UC Caps coaches and players.
- UC Capitals Tickets: Every participant will receive an access code for a ticket to attend a UC Capitals home game during the 2025/26 WNBL season!
- Snacks: Breaks will be held during the session with complimentary snacks like snow cones and popcorn!
To find out more or get your tickets, click here.
DiscoverFAD: Register Now!
The University of Canberra's Faculty of Arts and Design (FAD) would like to invite Year 10 - 12 students to attend our DiscoverFAD short courses these winter school holidays. These short courses are designed to give your students a taste of practical learning from our creative degrees. Delivered by University of Canberra lecturers, DiscoverFAD is an exciting and affordable opportunity for high school students to get a glimpse of their future careers and understand the study pathways to get there. Our short courses are facilitated by our talented academics and are a great way for high school students to experience what life is like at University and start planning for the future.
When: July School Holidays
Where: UC, Bruce Campus
Price: $0-$59
You can also enter the work you create in a DiscoverFAD short course to the UC Creative Competition for your chance to win big!
To find out more or to register for workshops, click here.
HMAS Albatross Work Experience
NAVY FAMILIARISATION: HMAS ALBATROSS Monday 18 – Wednesday 20 August 2025 HMAS Albatross is the country's largest operational naval establishment and the Navy's only Air Station. The primary role of HMAS Albatross is to provide air, operational, intelligence and logistics support to the fleet.
Students may participate in the following activities:
- Naval Aviation Sea Survival Centre Drills / Wet Winching • Visits to Squadrons, Seahawk Simulation and Warfare Centre and Helicopter Aircrew Training School (HATS) Simulators ADF Parachute School visit and Simulators • Participate in the RAN Fitness Test – HMAS Creswell Gym Session / Team Building Exercises • Fly the Naval Aviation Prospects Scheme (NAPS) Virtual Reality Simulators • Visit the RAN School of Survivability and Ship Safety (RANSSSS) and participate in combat survivability training
VET and Careers Coordinator
Year 7 Technology Engineering
This term, the Year 7 technology students have showcased remarkable talent and creativity in designing and building outstanding CO2 cars. Their dedication and skill were evident in the innovative designs and craftsmanship displayed throughout the project.
Congratulations to Roake Colbourne, who came first with an exceptional car that combined speed and aerodynamic efficiency. Mia Stevenson secured second place with a well-balanced and finely tuned vehicle, while Cooper Cassidy earned third place for impressive performance and a unique carrot-inspired car.
In addition to these achievements, Archie Mills was awarded Best Dressed, as voted by his peers, for the most visually striking and creatively decorated cake car! The Best Craftsmanship award went to Liam Fisher, recognising meticulous attention to detail and superior build quality.
Well done to everyone involved for their hard work and enthusiasm in making this project a great success!








Year 8 Technology Materials and Engineering
This semester, the Year 8 Technology Materials students have excelled in creating Treat Dispensers, demonstrating outstanding design and creativity. The projects showcased a variety of clever handle designs.
Their dispensers were not only functional but also skilfully crafted.
The enthusiasm and skill displayed by the Year 8 students have made this project a great success. Well done to all students in Mr Barnett and Mrs Mullins’ classes for their hard work and inventive approaches to building treat dispensers this semester. The students also made CO2 cars this semester, which was an enriching project that immersed students in the field of engineering and design.




Year 9-10 Timber
This semester, Mr Kenneally’s Year 9 - 10 Industrial Technology Timber students crafted serving boards using Australian mixed hardwoods. They employed various tools and machines, including hand tools, power tools, and the laser cutter, which added precise detailing and individuality to their work.
The project helped students develop practical skills and understand hardwood properties, combining design and production processes. Their finished boards showcase their craftsmanship and the effective use of traditional and modern woodworking techniques. Congratulations to these students on their amazing final product!













Year 9-10 Food Technology
Mr Bissell, Mrs Kenna and Mrs Shillings Food Technology class created Poke bowls, and they were hands-down the favourite cook of the semester, with some very professionally presented dishes being created across the four classes. Students have been learning about Food Equity, investigating how food is
Year 10 Timber
The focus for Mr Barnett’s Year 10 Industrial Technology Timber this semester has been on the Grazing Tables. Students have been learning to create complex joints such as the bridle and mortice and tenon and refining their skills using jigs, powered hand tools, and machinery. We look forward to sharing their completed projects with you shortly.






Year 11 Industrial Technology
The students have just begun gluing up their dartboard cabinets. Students have demonstrated exceptional skills with high attention to detail using a range of complex joinery techniques. Next term they will be moving into CAD drawing and expanding their skill set in this area by drawing the dartboard cabinet, including any modifications they made to the original plan. They will also focus on timber finishes to best prepare them for the completion of their dartboard cabinets.
Year 12 Design and Technology
HSC students have recently completed their informal folio presentations, gaining valuable feedback ahead of their final submissions in Term 3. This year’s cohort showcases a diverse range of innovative projects, including a Social Reading App, an Innovative Car Storage Solution, and a Saddle Comforter. Each student is honing their design and production skills, demonstrating creativity and technical expertise as they prepare for the culmination of their studies.
Mrs Emma Mullins
TAS Coordinator
Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations
The Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations will be held from Thursday 7 August to Tuesday 19 August. A copy of the updated examination timetable is provided below.
Students are encouraged to begin their preparation now by revising coursework, seeking feedback, and working through past HSC papers. Early and consistent preparation will support their success in these important exams.
Wishing all Year 12 students the very best with their studies and preparations.
Parent-Teacher-Student Evenings – Change of Date
Following the release of Semester 1 reports, the College will be holding two Parent-Teacher-Student Evenings. Please note that due to ongoing construction of our new carpark, on-site parking will be limited early next term. To accommodate the construction works the new dates are:
- Wednesday 6 August, 3:30pm – 7:00pm
- Tuesday 26 August, 3:30pm – 7:00pm
We apologise for any inconvenience this change may cause and appreciate your understanding.
Both sessions will take place at the College. Bookings will be available through the online Sentral portal, which will open Week 1, Term 3. We encourage all families to attend to discuss student progress and next steps for learning.
NSW School Vaccination Program – catchup day
Any student in Year 7 and 10 who was absent on their vaccination day will receive their catchup vaccination on Tuesday August 26.
This week’s reminders …
- Term 2 resumes on Tuesday 22 July, timetabled day 2.
- On Wednesday 23 July, our K-12 schools will celebrate NAIDOC week with the biannual Yuni Banaan Day at Captain Oldrey Park.
- The Mountain Bike excursion will take place on Thursday 24 July. This has been rescheduled from Term 2.
- The NAIDOC Mass is scheduled for Friday 25 July in Canberra.
- On Tuesday 29 July we will hold our Semester 1 Awards Assembly in the College Hall.
- The Youth Committee meet on Thursday 31 July.
- On Friday 1 August we will celebrate NAIDOC.
Term 3 important dates
- Monday 21 July – pupil free day
- Tuesday 22 July – students return
- Wednesday 23 July – Yuin Banaan
- Tuesday 29 July – College awards assembly
- Friday 1 August – College NAIDOC service
- Wednesday 6 August and Tuesday 26 August – Parent Teacher Evening
- Tuesday 19 August – Year 10 Formation Day
- Thursday 21 August – CECG Athletics in Canberra
- Tuesday 26 August – Year 7 and 10 catch up immunisation day
- Wednesday 27 August – College assembly
- Friday 29 August – Year 8 Pastoral Day
- Week 7 – Year 7 to 10 PAT Spelling test week
- Thursday 4 September – Father’s Day Breakfast
- Saturday 6 September – 30th Anniversary Celebration at Oaks Ranch
- Monday 8 September – SLT 2026 Commissioning assembly
- Week 8 and 9 – Year 11 Exams
- Friday 19 September – Year 9 Pastoral Day
- Monday 22 September – Year 12 Breakfast
- Tuesday 23 September – Year 12 Graduation Mass and Assembly at St Bernard’s Church
- Wednesday 24 September – Year 12 Farewell assembly and lunch
- Thursday 25 September – Term 3 ends
- Friday 26 September – pupil free day
Mrs Sandra Harris
Administration Coordinator
Business Manager










Wellbeing Coordinator
Musical Producer













Thank you Mrs Barling!
As our fabulous Musical Producer, Belle has quite literally ticked every box, sometimes twice! From backstage logistics, keeping headsets stocked with batteries, and last-minute print runs, Belle has ensured that no detail has been overlooked. Her meticulous organisation has hugely contributed to the success of ‘We Will Rock You’.
There’s a saying in theatre that “the show must go on”, but let’s be clear: this one wouldn’t have gone on at all without Belle. Her work allowed the cast, crew, and creative team to shine, and we are beyond grateful.
Thank you Belle, for everything you’ve done, seen and unseen. We are lucky to have you!
As the term comes to a close, I would like to congratulate all the students who have been participating with enthusiasm and school spirit across a wide range of sports. Also thanks to the staff who have been putting in countless hours training and coaching our students this term.
Archdiocesan Soccer
Tuesday 17 June Carroll College had four teams playing in the annual Archdiocesan Football Gala Day in what can only be described as ‘cold Canberra’.
Our Open Boys played three games going down in two by 1 goal to nil and a draw. The Open Girls were very unlucky not to take home 3 out of 3 wins ending the day with 2 wins and one loss. We then had our Jnr Girls team who came second in their pool on goal difference after winning two games and a draw. They then played in a final to determine 3rd place – this too ended in a draw.
The highlight of the day was our Jnr Boys team who went through their pool undefeated with no goals scored against them in their pool matches. In the last match of the day they came up against Trinity who was winner of Pool B and both teams were held to nil all at full
time. The game then went straight to penalty shoot out with the Carroll boys clinching the win 5-4. They were crowned champions!
Well done to all players who braved the freezing temperatures and represented the College with great team spirit and skill! Thanks to Mr Kennaelly, Mrs Cooper, Mrs Rudol, Mr McAteer and Mr Harding for all their coaching and managing of the teams.










AFL - Junior Boys
Tuesday 17 June our junior boys travelled to Ulladulla to compete in the Junior school's cup. Undermanned and under experienced, our junior boys fought valiantly against a strong Ulladulla high school. Unfortunately, the boys went down however they are to be commended on the effort and spirit displayed all day. The boys represented the school with great pride. Thanks to coach Thane for all his expertise and Mrs Tiffen for helping out on the day.
Rugby Union
It was an exciting day of rugby at Broulee with our teams participating in the Brumbies South Coast High School 7s. Teams from Eden Marine High, Batemans Bay High School, Sapphire Coast Anglican College, Moruya High School and St Peter's Anglican College Broulee were in attendance.
Our teams had a fabulous day playing some scintillating rugby 7s and produced these excellent results:
7/8 Boys A – Undefeated in Pool and Tournament Champions.
7/8 Boys B – Undefeated in Pool B and third place overall.
7/8 Girls – One win, two losses and third place overall.
9/10 Boys A – Three wins, one loss and second place overall.
9/10 Boys B- Two wins, two losses and third place overall.
9/10 Girls – Three wins, one loss, one draw and second place overall.
Congratulations to our 7/8 Boys A, 9/10 Girls and 9/10 Boys A who have qualified for the ACT and Southern NSW Finals in Canberra next term. Thanks to coach Brady and Katuke for all their hard work with the rugby.










Athletics Carnival
Congratulations to all students who participated in our Athletics Carnival today during week 8.
Records were broken by the following students:
Luke Drewsen – 16 years boys – Long jump, 400m, 200m and 100m
James Collins – 16 years boys – 800m
Jacob Borg – 15 years boys – Equalled High Jump record
Felix Poole – 12 years boys – 100m
Asher Brady – 14 years boys – High Jump
Age champions –
Age | Female | Male |
12 Years | Madison Cowley | Felix Poole |
13 Years | Leala Garden | Cooper Cassidy |
14 Years | Molly Ward | Asher Brady |
15 Years | Elyssa Welsh | Jacob Borg |
16 Years | Lily Mahony | Luke Drewsen |
17 + Years | Charlotte Welsh | Will McAteer |
House results –
House |
Place |
Points |
Chisholm |
1st |
1321 |
Xavier |
2nd |
1215 |
Mackillop |
3rd |
1201 |
Senior Boys AFL
On Thursday 26 June the Senior AFL boys travelled to compete in the South Coast/Illawarra Senior Boys AFL Final. The boys delivered in every aspect of the game – dominating through work rate, effort, and a strong team structure.
The results were as follows:
Game 1: A powerful start with a 8.4 (52) to 0.1 (1) win over Holy Spirit College.
Game 2: Maintained intensity to defeat Warilla High School 6.2 (38) to 1.2 ().
Grand Final: Capped off the day with a clinical 6.3 (39) to 3.1 (19) victory against Narooma High School.
The boys are to be commended on their coachable attitude and sportsmanship. They represented the college with great pride. The boys now look to move forward to a potential State Final later next term. Thanks to coach Thane and Mrs Wiggins for helping out on the day.
Next term will again be a busy one with a wide range of sporting events happening. These include:
- Archdiocesan Athletics Carnival
- South Coast Netball Championships Finals
- Mountain Biking Club events
- Archdiocesan Basketball Championships
- State Cup Touch Football
- CCB annual snow trip
- And more!
Sport Coordinator
Year 9 Pastoral Day - Embracing Resilience
On Friday June 27, Year 9 students participated in their Pastoral Care day with the focus on resilience.
Our guest speaker, Mick Weyman, a local rugby league legend, who has proudly represented NSW and Australia, shared his remarkable story of overcoming personal and professional challenges to reach the pinnacle of his sport. He spoke candidly about how resilience—staying focused, working hard, and never giving up—helped him push past obstacles to achieve his dreams. Mick’s message to the students was clear: setbacks are part of life, but with perseverance, you can achieve greatness and always look for a positive in a negative.
The day also included watching and learning about two incredible Australians, Dylan Alcott and Turia Pitt, whose stories of resilience left a lasting impact.
Reflecting on these stories, the students were challenged to think about their own lives - what obstacles have they faced and how and when have they shown resilience? More importantly, they were reminded that they are not alone. They were encouraged to reach out and seek support when needed, be it family, friends and/or teachers and support services.
Across the day, students participated in a range of fun activities including working in groups to produce a short film on resilience and constructing and building a bridge with only newspaper and masking tape. This task encouraged team work, and also demonstrated the significance of solid foundations in building resilience.
The students are to be commended for their engagement and positive attitude!
The Pastoral Care Team
Our Year 11 Biology students recently took part in a field trip to the Broulee Rock Platform, offering a valuable opportunity to apply their classroom learning in a real-world setting. The focus of the excursion was to investigate the distribution and abundance of various mollusc species in relation to abiotic factors.
Blessed with perfect weather, students were able to conduct their fieldwork in ideal conditions. Working in small groups throughout the afternoon, they used quadrats along transect lines to collect data, carefully recording their observations and putting theory into practice. This hands-on experience not only reinforced their understanding of ecological concepts but also helped strengthen their skills in scientific inquiry and analysis.
The students are to be commended for their enthusiasm, effort, and maturity throughout the day. They gathered a substantial amount of raw data, which will now be analysed back in the classroom—further developing their Working Scientifically skills and deepening their understanding of ecological fieldwork.