Filter Content
- Principal's Report
- Teaching & Learning News
- Mission & Ministry Report
- The Leader's Lounge - Student Leadership Article
- Silver Award Recipients
- Hennessy Clothing Pool
- Ag News
- College Fees
- Dental Care Visit
- Tech Tips
- Year 8 Materials Technology
- Year 11 Business Studies
- Lambing Flat Writing Competition
- Equestrian Results
- Junior Young Woman Competition
- Canteen
- Young Woman Competition
- Rural Ambassador Award
- Family Engagement with Faith
- Careers News
Welcome to the first newsletter of Term 3. I hope all our families had a relaxing holiday break with some respite from the cold and wet weather. Last week our Year 10 students embarked on their ski trip adventure. They returned full of excitement and many of them were sure that skiing would be a sport they would like to try again. Thank you to Mrs Cass for her organisation and Mr Mergard, Mr Kershaw, Mrs McGuiness, Mr Hem and Ms Hudson who supervised this excursion.
On Friday, Hennessy had the privilege of hosting the regional NAIDOC Mass. Students and staff from St Mary’s Young, Sacred Heart Cootamundra, St Mary’s West Wyalong and St Joseph’s Grenfell attended as well as special guests from Catholic Education, Canberra. The theme of this year’s mass was ‘Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud.’ We began with a smoking ceremony in front of the church performed by Aunty Enid and her grandson, Brody and then processed into the church. Thank you to Fr Jiss and Deacon Mark for saying mass and being part of this ceremony. Thank you also to Mrs Cass and Mr Miller for their organisation and Mrs Riordan for the beautiful singing and music.
This week we have launched a rewards program called the Hennessy Hearts Program. This program supplements the House Points program by recognising those students who do the little things that contribute to the ‘heart of Hennessy’. So far the rewards box is filling fast, a canteen voucher winner will be drawn each Monday at the morning assembly.
Yesterday the 2024/2025 College Captains interviews were completed and speeches will be held on Monday. It is wonderful to see students accepting nominations for these positions.
You will receive an email concerning the Tell Them From Me Surveys will be open from next Monday. Please take the time to complete this survey. The Surveys give valuable feedback to the College on what is going well and areas for improvement. Students and staff also have the opportunity to complete a survey.
Parent/Student/teacher interviews were held online yesterday. If you were unable to book a suitable time, please feel free to contact your child’s teacher to organise an alternative online or face-to-face meeting.
All the best to our Year 12 students as they begin their Trial Examinations on Monday. Please keep them in your prayers.
May the light of God shine upon our students as they face their exams. May it illuminate their minds, guide their thoughts, and bring them clarity and understanding. May they stay focused and believe in their abilities. We pray they will approach their exams with a positive mindset and a heart filled with determination.
Kathy Holding
Principal
Year 12 Trial Examinations
Next Monday 5th August our Year 12 Trial Examinations commence, they will run through until Friday 16th August. Year 12 have been issued a copy of the examination timetable and they must be aware of when they need to be present at school for their exams. The trial exams are an opportunity for the students to analyse their performance and seek feedback from their teachers to allow them to understand areas of improvement before their HSC exams in October.
Each subject has specific requirements for equipment for the examinations and the students should familiarise themselves with them, they can be found at https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/nesa/hsc/rules-and-procedures/exam-equipment-list In addition to that, we have met with the students and explained the rules and procedures around the exams should they wish to read through they can be found on the NESA website https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/wcm/connect/7f63462b-d33f-4c63-9e1e-c971fab0d36b/2024-rules-and-procedures-guide.pdf?MOD=AJPERES.
Should your child be unwell for the trial examinations;
- A parent/carer must contact the College prior to the examination commencing
- A student must provide a medical certificate
- A student must complete an illness/misadventure form and hand to Mrs McInerney to support the missed examination
- The exam will be rescheduled (notification via Compass).
Year 11, 2025 - Subject Selections
We are starting the process of subject selection for Year 11 2025. Students will have a range of opportunities to meet with staff and learn about the courses we offer at Hennessy. Students should select courses that align with their abilities, desires and aspirations. The process will begin in Week 4.
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Monday 12th August - Period 1 |
Year 10 meeting with Mrs Parkmen to explain the subject selection process and discuss common language around selecting subjects. |
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Tuesday 13th August - Period 5 |
Subject Market - students will get the opportunity to talk with students in current courses, discuss with KLA Leaders the courses and what they involve. |
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Tuesday 13th August - 6pm - 7pm |
Year 11 2025 Information Evening (Parents and Students) |
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Thursday 15th August - 8am - 5pm |
Year 10 Students/Parent Interviews Year 10 parents to make bookings via Compass - students will get a 20 minute session to discuss their potential course preferences and patterns of study |
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Friday 23rd August - 3pm |
Online subject selections are due by 9am |
Attendance
We are aware there are instances that students can not attend school due to illness or unplanned situations. A missed school day is a missed opportunity for students to learn. Poor attendance has implications for later outcomes in schooling, research demonstrates that ongoing absenteeism can have effects on behaviour and social impacts in a school setting.
Just some friendly reminders in terms of expectations for student attendance.
- When you are late to school you are required to have a note to explain your lateness.
- If you have an appointment and need to leave the College early you need to ensure you have a parental note and your PC Teacher/House Leader or myself needs to sign it before you sign out. These appointments should be medical appointments that cannot otherwise be arranged outside of school hours, whereas beauty appointments are not appropriate reasons for arriving late/departing early.
- If a student is feeling unwell, they are to go to the front office and then they will call your parents/caregivers. You cannot just call and tell them you are sick and sign out.
- Students cannot just walk to the machine to use your card and sign in/out.
- If your child is absent from the College for any reason, a parent/carer needs to ensure you provide a reason for your absence, this can be done with a note/Compass or email. It should be brought in on the first day of your return.
These are legal requirements and not a Hennessy rule.Can I please remind you of the process for signing out of the College. Students are to bring a note from their parent/caregiver, this note is to state the date, the student’s time of leaving, and the reason for the departure. Students are then to get their Pastoral Care Teacher and House Leader to sign before they are able to sign out of the College.
If an unexpected departure is required, parents/caregivers are to contact the College front office and discuss with the Office Staff. Students will NOT be allowed to sign out of the College without this formal permission. Text messages from your parents/caregivers via your Mobile Phones are not an acceptable reason. In addition to this, senior students are not permitted to sign out for study lessons.
Should you have any concerns, please feel free to contact your child’s House Leader, Mrs Wright (Assistant Principal – Mission & Wellbeing) or myself.
zUp and Coming Activities
- Canberra Careers Expo (Year 11) - 8th August
- Year 11 Subject Selections 12th - 15th August (see above for specific dates)
- Try a Trade Day - Wagga - 22nd August
- HSC Arts & Music Performances - 28th August
- Year 7, 2025 Orientation Days - 11th & 12th September
- Year 11 Preliminary Exams - 13th - 20th September
- Year 12 Graduation & End of Term 3 - 26th September
Acting Assistant Principal - Teaching & Learning
At last week’s assembly, I spoke about the importance of taking up opportunities presented this term, both inside and outside the classroom. Engaging in these activities will ensure a successful Term 3 for all.
Last week, selected Year 9 Catholic Schools Youth Ministry Australia (CSYMA) students received training to host Year 6 students making their confirmation from St. Mary's Parish. These students led small groups, organised activities, and shared their personal faith journeys. Each student did an incredible job, truly showing the face of Jesus to each other and to the young people they were mentoring. Special commendations go to Oliver Miller and Jemima Mergard, who shared the importance of their faith with the whole group through their testimonies. I look forward to continuing this journey with them.
On Friday, we also celebrated NAIDOC week by hosting the Regional Mass and awards at St. Mary's Parish. The Mass began with a smoking ceremony hosted by Aunty Enid and her grandson Brody. It was beautifully prepared by Luke Miller and Susan Cass. After the Mass, students enjoyed a sausage sizzle. Congratulations to Ashlyn Perry, who received the Leadership Award; Hardy Glover, who received the Sports Award; and Samantha Malkav, who received the Academic Award.
This term, we have introduced the Hennessy Hearts Tokens. These tokens can be earned by students who consistently apply themselves, behave appropriately, and embody the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Developed by the pastoral team, this initiative aims to recognize positive behaviour in a frequent and tangible manner. Each week, a draw will take place during Monday morning assembly, where students can win a canteen voucher. There will be a mega draw at the end of the term.
The Year 10 ski trip was an excellent experience for many of our students. They had fun and learned new skills, or tried to (right, Mr. Kershaw?). Pastoral programs like these are crucial for our students' development, as they encourage resilience, teamwork, and compassion in real-world situations.
A reminder regarding our IT policy: students are not permitted to record themselves or other students in college uniform as this is a breach of the policy. Additionally, black jackets are not part of the school uniform; jackets must be navy with no logos.
Please join with us as we celebrate Father's Day with Mass at St Mary's Parish and Breakfast on the Parish Lawn. This is a great way to join together as a community to celebrate the special men in our lives. Please see details attached and please complete the form for catering purposes. https://forms.gle/S2acpojFFbj1KNZY9
Hello, and welcome back to term 3!
It has been a very cold start coming back to school, but through the last 2 weeks things have started to heat up! The First day back we had a whole school college assembly. The leadership team and staff were very impressed with the singing of the National Anthem, despite the technical difficulties, all students carried on, and should be commended for having such pride in Australia with their fantastic singing. Also, at this assembly, the silver award recipients were announced. To earn a silver award, a student must have at least 3 points in each area (Live spiritually, Learn dynamically & Act Justly) and have a total of 30 points or more. Early in week one we had 3 people earn a silver award; Bonny Bromham, Azalea Sullivan and Eliza Taylor. In week 2 we had Jemima Mergard and Liam Payne earn a silver award. A massive congratulations to our silver award recipients!!
NAIDOC Mass
On Friday week 1, we had a beautiful mass to celebrate Naidoc Week. It was a fantastic way to acknowledge our ancestors in a reverent and respectful way, to 'Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud & proud'. Many schools from around the region attended this mass including: St Mary’s Primary Young, Sacred Heart Cootamundra, St Mary’s War Memorial School, West Wyalong, and St Josephs Grenfell. After a cleansing smoking ceremony and lovely readings from students, many Indigenous students from Hennessy and St Mary’s received awards, well done to Ashlyn Perry, Samantha Malkav and Hardy Glover from Hennessy!
NEW:
HENNESSY HEARTS! As of Monday, it was announced that Hennessy would be participating in a new process called ‘Hennessy Hearts,’ where all those working hard in and out of class will be given a card, which will provide them the opportunity to receive a canteen voucher… Could that be you?
Year 12 vs Teachers Competition!
On Monday during break 1, Yr 12 went up against the Teachers in a game of netball. The teachers came in strong with great attacking power and a super GA, Simon Quinn, dominating throughout the whole game. Yr 12 held strong but couldn’t match the teachers’ pace and teamwork, the teachers made themselves a huge gap (9-3). The final stretch was close, there was only 1 minute left in the game. The crowd favourite Mr Watson was complimented and cheered for his amazing defence. The Teachers kicked it into gear and put a couple of quick points on the board, Year 12 were slow to follow. The final buzzer rang once again leaving the teachers with the win. The score… year 12 won’t tell (13-6). The teachers won the game by an astonishing 7 point lead!! If there had to be a Player of the match, it would undoubtedly be Mr Quinn, absolute machine! The Teachers now lead the Teacher/Student competition 2-0 with 3 games to come. COME ON YEAR 12!
Hennessy World Cup
Hennessy is now holding their very own world cup, better than the olympics… so I’ve been told.
The structure will be;
Game 1: Year 11 V Year 12 – Friday 2nd August
Game 2: Year 7 V Year 8 – Tuesday 6th August
Game 3: Year 9 V Year 10 – Wednesday 7th August
Game 4 – SEMI FINAL : Winner Game 2 V Winner Game 3 – Friday 9th August
GRAND FINAL – Winner Game 4 V Winner Game 1 (TBC)
This Friday Yr 12 will take on Yr 11. Bring your A game teams! Will Yr 12 finally win something at school!? Watch this space for more!
Try a trade expo
Coming up on Thursday 22nd August, is a ‘Try a Trade Day excursion’ for interested Years 9-12 students. Hennessy students are invited to attend this one day excursion leaving at 9am and returning by 3.10pm. A large number of potential employers and organisations will be there, and students will have the chance to see demonstrations, try out tools and equipment or create something. This will be the biggest expo in the region promoting apprenticeships, traineeships and entry level employment opportunities in construction, automotive, electrical, plumbing, hair dressing, hospitality and many more. There will be no charge for this excursion. Interested students should complete this google form. https://forms.gle/j35QF1wgtTSaU6hd7 (students only)
Successful students will be emailed with more details. It will be a fun day, and we encourage anybody interested to put their name down.
Trial Exams
Coming up we have the year 12 trial examinations, which will take place over the next 2 weeks. We wish all of year 12 the best of luck, please don’t stress! You’ve got this! Same applies for all those going for leadership roles from year 11 for 2024-25 school leadership, all the best!
That’s all for this week. Thanks again for tuning into this week's Leader’s Lounge!
All the best with Term 3!
James and Jasmine
Your College Captains :)
At the recent College assembly, we proudly acknowledged three exceptional students who have each earned a Silver Award by achieving at least 30 house points, showcasing their well-rounded engagement in school life.
Eliza Taylor
Eliza has earned Living Spiritually points through activities such as the Colour Run, serving as an Open Day tour guide, participating in lunchtime State of Origin challenges, and taking part in the Careers Week Quiz. Her Learning Dynamically points reflect her elite representation in sports such as Rugby 7s, Touch Football, Swimming, Cross Country, League Tag, Rugby League, and Dance. Additionally, she earned Acting Justly points by participating in ANZAC Day ceremonies and volunteering to assist primary schools in the region.
Bonny Bromham
Bonny has accumulated Living Spiritually points through her involvement in Public Speaking, the Passion Play, musical performances in liturgies, and various competitions. Her Learning Dynamically points are a result of her excellence in science and religion, her achievement as the 13 Years Girls Swimming Age Champion, and her participation in the da Vinci Decathlon and Variety Night. Bonny also earned Acting Justly points by volunteering for Dine and Donate, the College ANZAC Day service, and a Primary Swimming Carnival.
Azalea Sullivan
Azalea has collected Living Spiritually points for her consistent contributions to Hennessy masses and youth group. Her Learning Dynamically points are a result of her active participation in all College Sports Carnivals, Basketball, Netball, Beach Volleyball, Variety Night, and the da Vinci Decathlon. Azalea also earned Acting Justly points through her volunteer work with Dine and Donate, All Schools Cup Netball, and the Young North Breakfast Service.
These achievements highlight the diverse talents and commitment of our students. We are proud of their contributions and look forward to celebrating more successes in the future. Congratulations to Eliza, Bonny, and Azalea!
Last Wednesday, we were honoured to have Sally Bannerman (Animal Welfare Coordinator) and Brooke and Alyssa Watts (Bralca) visit our Agricultural Plot. These experienced ladies shared some invaluable tips and hints for the upcoming NSW School Merino Wether Challenge as well as their inspiring career journeys in Agriculture.
After some hands-on practice, our six wethers were relocated to Bralca, a property near Molong. This move, serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it allows the sheep to continue to increase their weight over the next four weeks. By rotating through different pastures, the sheep will have access to a variety of nutrients, enhancing their overall health and readiness for the competition. Additionally, the new location provides essential shelter during the evening, allowing the sheep's feet to dry out and prevent any health issues.
This decision was made in response to the recent wet weather conditions experienced around the region. The relocation not only gives our Ag Plot a chance to regenerate but also ensures the sheep have a larger area to graze and adequate shelter at night.
The NSW School Merino Wether Challenge will take place in Dubbo on the 26th - 28th August and ten students from Year 11 will represent the College. Additionally, all Year 11 Agriculture students will have the opportunity to visit the six wethers in Molong on Friday, the 16th of August to perform sheep husbandry tasks in preparation for the Challenge.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all students for their hard work and dedication over the past four months. Special thanks to Mrs. Schiller for her exceptional care and responsibility in overseeing this process. Your efforts have been instrumental in preparing our sheep for the competition and ensuring their well-being. Watch this space for further updates.
Reminder that all college fees for term 3 are due and payable by 16th August.
Payment for terms 1 and 2 are now overdue.
Year 12 students, college fees are to be finalised by 16th August unless alternative arrangements have been made.
Please use the BPAY details shown on the statement to make lump sum payments or regular instalments. You are able to make school fee payments through the Compass APP (CompassPay), however our preferred method is BPAY through your bank/internet banking.
CompassPay is a convenient payment method, however is costly to the College with several different processing fees associated with each transaction. The College's preferred payment option is BPAY.
Thank you to those who have paid or making regular repayments.
Should you wish to discuss these payment options, please do not hesitate to contact Nadine Woods.
Dental Care NSW - Mobile Dentist will be visiting Hennessy Catholic College again in 2024. The mobile dentist will be conveniently located in the Admin block of the College and will be available for students to access.
There are options for families who are eligible the Child Dental Benefit Scheme to receive free Dental treatment. Please see this link for information and consent. https://dentalcarensw.com/online-consent-form/
Further information and an electronic form attached should you wish to print this and hand it in to the front office.
Year 11 Business Studies students had some fun making pizzas! This was a practical way to learn about aspects of business management and leadership within the business.
A huge 5 days, Cady, Ella and Ashleigh, represented the college with pride and respect at Orange Anglican Grammar ACE Academy Interschool Equestrian.
Results below, images in seperate emails.
One of a few schools of all who competed placings.
Cady Aiken
5th in Combined Training
Dressage
1st in the 1.3
4th in the 1.2
Ella Powderly
Show riding
3rd out of 20 in her rider class
3rd out of 10 show horse
1st in pairs
2nd in handler
5th in 60cm combine training
2nd in 1.2 prelim dressage
5th in 1.3 prelim dressage
Ashleigh Carberry
1st 7-8 Key hole
2nd 7-8 Rider in action
2nd 7-8 square yard
4th 7-8 60cm combined training
Showing kindness award
2nd 7-8 1.3 Preliminary Dressage
3rd 7-8 1.2 Preliminary Dressage
I also attended assisting with running the event and officiating the Dressage and judging.
Canteen Winter Warmer Specials
FlexiSchools has been update to include "Winter Warmer Specials". These specials will change regularly throughout the winter months and available for both students and staff to order via the FlexiSchools App.
The "Winter Warmer Specials" are ONLY available online through FlexiSchools for Break 1 until sold out.
For those who haven't downloaded the FlexiSchools App, please see the attached instructions.
For priority service and guaranteed selection, order online.
