Dear Parents and Friends of Holy Cross,

There is no greater feedback and satisfaction that our work as educators makes a difference, than seeing our students highly engaged across aspects of their faith, learning and wellbeing. Check out our “Spotlight on Learning” section of the newsletter, where examples of student voice and leadership in action are highlighted in our SRC’s Friendship and Colour Run day, and classes learning about our faith through their sharing, especially as we celebrated All Saints, of a Saint resource for other classes to use and learn from.  

A Pilgrim in Ireland: Walking in the footsteps of Saints

A significant part of my recent pilgrimage included Ireland, tracing the lives of St. Patrick, St. Brigid, St Kevin and St. Columbkille. This offered me a profound journey into the origins of Irish Christianity and its unique fusion with Celtic culture. As you may recognise, many Catholic schools, including ours in Wollongong, carry the names of these saints!

St. Patrick, the most famous, is credited with bringing the Christian faith to the island in the 5th century, famously using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity. We visited many churches built to acknowledge his significant contribution, including the site of his first church at Saul in County Down, Northern Ireland, to St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, and travelling in the shadow of the majestic pilgrimage mountain of Croagh Patrick in County Mayo, where he is said to have fasted. 

St. Brigid, a contemporary of Patrick, established one of the first and most influential monasteries in Kildare, embodying the important role of women in early Irish monasticism and often incorporating pre-Christian traditions associated with the goddess Brigid. This period was one of peaceful conversion, where the saints skillfully integrated Christian tenets with existing Celtic spiritual and societal structures, rather than outright replacing them, resulting in a distinct form of Celtic Christianity.

The legacy of St. Columbkille (also known as Colmcille) extends this spiritual tapestry, tying early Irish monasticism directly to one of the country's greatest treasures: the Book of Kells, an amazing manuscript that illustrates a blend of Christian iconography and intricate Celtic knotwork. Born in the late 6th century, Columbkille was a powerful figure who founded critical monastic settlements, including one in Kells, County Meath, and the hugely influential one on the remote island of Iona off the coast of Scotland, a place of pilgrimage I was fortunate to also have visited almost 30 years ago. His communities became centres of unparalleled learning, artistry, and scriptural preservation during the so-called Dark Ages in Europe. It is widely believed that the stunningly illuminated Book of Kells was either started in Iona and moved to Kells for safekeeping from Viking raids or created entirely in the Kells scriptorium. Visiting the Book of Kells, at the Trinity College in Dublin, where the magnificent manuscript is housed today, was a special experience.

These saints established a heritage where faith and art were intertwined, creating a vibrant Christian tradition that would, through Irish and Scottish missionaries, re-evangelise parts of continental Europe. For me, this journey served as a powerful reminder of how these early pilgrims transformed Ireland from a distant island into a "land of saints and scholars."

Inspiration for our world

The stories of the Irish Saints—St. Patrick, St. Brigid, St. Columbkille—offer powerful, universal inspiration for the modern world and for children, emphasizing resilience, compassion and  learning. They provide a rich historical model for tackling contemporary challenges through spiritual action and personal discipline.

The lives of these saints speak directly to several modern struggles and values:

• Resilience and Forgiveness (St. Patrick): Patrick's life is a masterclass in perseverance and overcoming trauma. Kidnapped and enslaved as a teenager, he returned years later not for revenge, but to bring Christianity to the very people who had wronged him. This teaches adults the profound power of forgiveness and how one's deepest wounds can become the source of a compelling, transformative life mission.
• Compassion and Justice (St. Brigid): Brigid is an icon of social justice and hospitality. Her most famous stories involve her incredible generosity to the poor, often giving away her family's or the monastery's resources without hesitation. She challenges modern society's materialism and inequality, inspiring us to champion the vulnerable and to see the sacred in the mundane acts of kindness and service.
• The Value of Knowledge (St. Columbkille): As a patron of scholars and the founder of Iona and Kells, Columbkille highlights the importance of preserving and creating knowledge. His legacy, tied to the Book of Kells, demonstrates that even in times of chaos (like the Dark Ages), intellectual and artistic pursuits are vital. It inspires us today to prioritize education, literacy, and art as pillars of civilization.
  
  

Lessons for our children

The saints' narratives are full of adventure, simple symbols, and clear moral lessons that are highly accessible to children:

Saint	Key Story/Symbol	Lesson for Children
St. Patrick	The Shamrock (explaining the Trinity); escaping slavery and returning to help his captors.	Simplicity in Teaching and Forgiveness. Complex ideas can be explained simply. You can choose kindness even to those who hurt you.
St. Brigid	Her boundless generosity; turning water to ale or giving away a beautiful cloak to cover a vast piece of land.	Generosity and Charity. Sharing what you have, especially with those in need, is the most important thing. She models a love for animals and nature.
St. Columbkille	Founding monastic schools; the beautiful Celtic knots and illuminated letters of the Book of Kells.	Love of Learning and Creativity. Education and reading are treasures. Art is a way to express and honor beautiful ideas.

By focusing on these relatable actions—caring for the poor, forgiving enemies, seeking knowledge, and finding quiet in nature—the Irish saints offer children concrete, heroic models for living a life of purpose and compassion.

STAFFING NEWS

Staffing Announcement

It is with pleasure that I can share recent teacher recruitments:

• Bree-Anna Fogliada has been appointed Middle Leader and class teacher, effective from 2026. This appointment was a rigorous process undertaken last term, in accordance with system contract reappointments after 10 years, which Jeff Body has held.  Mrs Fogliada’s teaching experience has included Kindergarten, Stage 1 and Stage 3 classes, diverse learning, with leadership experiences across a range of school areas including PB4L, Gifted education, environmental initiatives, and curriculum. She has held the role of Middle Leader at St Paul’s Albion Park. She holds a Graduate Certificate RE, Bachelor of Education (Primary) and recently attained the NESA Highly Accomplished teacher accreditation. 
• Mr Jeff Bõdy, whose contract as Middle Leader is completed at the end of 2025, will remain on staff as a full time classroom teacher. We thank Jeff for his service in the Middle Leader role at Holy Cross, over the last 11 years, and the contributions he has made in the space of ICT, learning and other aspects of school life.
• Nadia Bertah has been appointed as a full time class teacher, from 2026. Miss Bertah has teaching experience in two dioceses (Sydney, Wilcannia Forbes), across Years 1,2,3, and recently, in regional NSW, a K-2 composite class, where she has also served as the school’s REC. 

Both new teachers will visit later this term, as part of their orientation and our handover processes, including our “Meet the Teacher” on Monday 8th December..

• Megan Brannon will continue into 2026 at Holy Cross, as full time classroom teacher.
• Danielle Muse will be joining our staff to teach the CAPA curriculum (Music, Dance, Drama) on Fridays, replacing Kasey Maher.

Class teacher and staffing for 2026 is in the process of being finalised, and will be communicated via compass on Monday 8 December. This is also when our students will have their “Meet the Teacher” session. 

TEACHER PROFESSIONALISM

Our school’s Annual Improvement Plan’s impact on improving students’ faith, learning and wellbeing is highly dependent upon the ongoing professional learning and capacity building of our staff. The professional learning opportunities and official events that staff have engaged with the last two weeks: 

May the peace of Christ be with you,

Milena Colussi
Principal

Australian University University Professional Experience Placement - Year 3

As part of Holy Cross' ongoing support in the development of tertiary students from

the Australian Catholic University (ACU), we are pleased to have Miss Bethany Parish join us for 5 weeks, commencing in Week 4.

Miss Parish is studying her Masters of Education degree in her fourth year of study, and will add invaluable support in delivering quality contemporary learning experiences to Year 3, under the direction and guidance of Mrs Anne Rowles and the school leadership team during this time.

Parent Information Session – Mathematics Engagement and Growth

At Holy Cross, we are committed to nurturing every child’s love of learning — and this year, our Annual Improvement Goal has focused on Improving Engagement and Learning Growth in Mathematics. We warmly invite all parents and carers to an information session where we will share how our school is working to inspire curiosity, confidence, and deeper thinking in Mathematics.

During the session, we will explore our continuum of learning engagement, highlight the strategies and classroom practices that have been enhancing student engagement, and showcase some of the strategies our teachers have been implementing.

We encourage all families to come along and discover how together, we can continue to build strong foundations and a genuine enjoyment of Mathematics for every learner.

Date: Wednesday 19th November

Time: 1:15-2:15pm

Location: Library

We look forward to seeing you there and sharing the great progress happening at Holy Cross!

ACER Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT)

Students at Holy Cross have recently been completing the ACER PAT Assessments in Reading and Mathematics. These assessments provide valuable insights into each student’s current level of understanding and help teachers identify specific areas of strength and growth. The data gathered is used to inform responsive teaching practices. By tracking progress over time, the PAT results also allow the school to measure the impact of teaching strategies and celebrate each student’s growth and achievement in these key learning areas.

Lindsay Burns
Assistant Principal

In Australia, the Catholic Church asks us to set aside the whole month of November to pray for loved ones who have died.  The Church teaches that our prayers, good works and the sacrifice of the Mass help the departed receive God’s light and join us again in eternal life.

We are encouraged to make November a time of family prayer and remembrance. By praying together, giving alms, and sharing a simple “Eternal rest” prayer, we show children that we are all part of one big family—the communion of saints—who help one another even after death.

You might like to pray this - traditional prayer for the dead with your family this month.

All Saints Mass

A special thank you to all the parents, friends and parishioners who were able to join us for Mass to celebrate the feast of All Saints last week in the Church. 

Remembrance Day Prayer Service

On Tuesday 11 November we will be having a Prayer Service at 11:30am in the Library to commemorate Remembrance Day. After the Second World War, the Australian Government agreed to the United Kingdom's proposal that Armistice Day be renamed Remembrance Day to commemorate those who were killed in both World Wars.

Today the loss of Australian lives from all wars and conflicts is commemorated on Remembrance Day. Our school Captains and Mrs Colussi will be attending the Community service in Charles Harper Park at the War Memorial, where they will lay a wreath to represent our school community.

In Peace, 

Mrs Debbie Turton  
Religious Education Coordinator

Monday Morning Prayer 8:50-9am - If you have the time, we warmly welcome you, our parents, to join us every Monday morning on the Top Playground COLA, as we gather to start the week and pray together.

Parish Masses - As a parish catholic school, we seek to enable opportunities for our community to encounter the mass. Each term, our classes attend a weekday parish mash, as well as whole school masses for important Feast days. Parents are always welcome to attend. :

Sunday Parish Mass - Families are of course always welcome to attend the Holy Cross Parish Sunday Masses.

The Parish Bulletin can be found via this link https://www.helensburghcatholic.org.au/bulletins

Our Mission is to Love (Faith):

Our school is a place of encounter with Jesus Christ, where He is known and loved.

We live our faith by embracing the teachings of Jesus.

Inspired by the Saints!

Last week our classes sought, recorded and shared a wonderful K-6 digital book about the lives of some Saints. View this here! 

SRC Friendship Day on Monday 3rd November 

Our Mission is to Live (Wellbeing): 

We value, respect and celebrate the dignity and uniqueness of every person.

We live our values through word and action, in the service of others.

Our school was bursting with colour, laughter and teamwork as students celebrated Friendship Day! The day was filled with engaging rotations of craft, sport (including some energetic parachute games!) and an exciting treasure hunt that had everyone working together and cheering each other on. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Colour Run, where students — and even teachers — got covered in a rainbow of fun! A heartfelt thank you to all the parents who assisted throughout the day; your support helped make this joyful celebration of friendship truly special.

Public Speaking Grand finalist winner!

AWARD ASSEMBLIES IN TERM 4

Our school assemblies in Term 4 will be held fortnightly on even week WEDNESDAY afternoons beginning at 2:30pm, under the top cola. Any change to the time will be communicated to parents via Compass. 

Dates for Term 4:

• Week 6: Wednesday 19th November, including Principal Awards
• Week 8: Wednesday 3rd December
• Week 10: TUESDAY 16th December

IMPORTANT DATES

Save the Dates

• Swimming Carnival
  This event will take place on Friday 5th December, at Corrimal Pool, between 9am- 12pm. This change is due to the renovations at Helensburgh Pool. As such, we are only able to hold 50m events for this year for students turning 8 years -12 years in 2026 (including our current Year 6 students). For students remaining at school, a water play fun session will be planned for.
  
  
• End Of Year Mass and Yr 6 Graduation
  Please note that our End of Year Mass and Year 6 Graduation Ceremony will be held in the church on Thursday 11 December at 9.15am. We will also express our gratitude and farewell for staff who are moving on.
  
  
• Christmas Concert
  This wonderful event will be held on Wednesday 18th December, on the playground, from 11:45am.This will also include a special retirement farewell for Mr Arturo Miranda. 

PB4L (Positive Behaviour for Learning)

      Our schoolwide focus for PB4L

PARENT COURSES AND WEBINARS

Empowering Parents: Respectful Relationships Parent Information Session

CEDoW is excited to welcome Australian youth advocate and 2025 Australian of the Year nominee, Daniel Principe, for a parent information night. His presentation is specifically targeted at parents of secondary students and shares vital tools to help young people navigate the culture around them.

This information session will be hosted by Holy Spirit College, Bellambi, on 27 November 2025. See the Empowering Parents flyer here.

It would be wonderful to see this advertised through the respective communication channels of each secondary school.

If you have any questions about the event or if you would like a social media tile for advertising, please reach out to Liam Nicholls and/or Jenn Sharp at respectfulrelationships@dow.catholic.edu.au.

ONLINE PARENT COURSES

Parent courses are also available through OnLine Training for parents seeking information or support around understanding ADHD and Autism and can be accessed via the OLT website.

Short courses are self-paced (approximately 2 hours) and include a variety of topics, with parents only able to enrol in only one course at a time.

NAVIGATING THE SOCIAL MEDIA CHANGE

THE CHANGING FACE OF CYBERBULLYING: HELP PROTECT YOUR CHILD ONLINE

For parents and carer of young people in primary and secondary school Presented by the eSafety Commissioner AI tools are evolving fast – and some are being misused in ways that can harm or exploit children and young people, including through the creation of deep fakes and digitally altered images. This 45-minute webinar covers how these technologies are being used, their impact and how to support and protect your child. It’s suitable for parents and carers of upper primary and high school students.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

SCHOOL FEES - Request to pay by installments

Request to pay by Installment forms are now located on the School Website. Click on below link for more information.

FOUR WEEKS OF LIBRARY BORROWING LEFT

Last day for Library borrowing will be Friday, 28 November (Week 7). This allows a couple of weeks to get all Library books returned for the year and to complete mandatory Library tasks like stocktake.

SCHOLASTIC BOOK CLUB ISSUE 7

Book Club Issue 7 orders are due anytime and parents will be notified on their arrival.

Book Club Issue 8 catalogues will be sent home next week. This will be the last catalogue for the year.

How to order:

• jump online to order: https://bookclubs.scholastic.com.au/
• if your order is a gift, you can nominate it online as ‘gift’.
• once the orders arrive, all parents are given a courtesy call.

PLEASE NOTE: all orders are done online, the school does not collect cash or cheques.

Happy reading everyone!

Sue Murray
Library Coordinator

NSWPSSA State Athletics Success: Outstanding Results at Sydney Olympic Park!

Held at Sydney Olympic Park, the competition was fierce, and the conditions were challenging, with very high temperatures. Despite this, all three boys showed remarkable grit, determination, and sportsmanship in every event they competed in.

Their outstanding results are a testament to their dedication:

• Noah placed an impressive 9th in the state in the Junior Boys High Jump.

• Archie came in 9th in the state in the Junior Boys 1500m and secured 19th place in the Junior Boys 800m.

• Jesse delivered a truly stellar performance, earning a silver medal in the Senior Boys 1500m event! This fantastic result has secured him a coveted spot on the NSW team. He also progressed to the 800m finals, where he placed an excellent 5th.

What an awesome way to cap off a successful sporting season for these three athletes!

We wish Jesse the very best of luck as he heads to Canberra later in November to compete in the School Sport Australia National Championships—we know he will make our school proud!

Congratulations to Blake who has made the Under 12's Rep Team for Sutherland Sharks Basketball for the 2nd year in a row!

The Holy Cross Parish Bulletin is emailed to our families via COMPASS, but it is easily accessible on the Parish website: https://www.helensburghcatholic.org.au/bulletins

An Invitation to Sunday Mass

Holy Cross Parish would like to extend a warm invitation to all our beloved school families to join us for Mass on Sunday mornings at 8:30am. 

Attending Mass as a family is not only a wonderful opportunity to strengthen and nurture our faith but also a chance to deepen the bonds that unite us as a parish, school and a wider community. 

Some things you may not know:

• Sunday Mass goes for one hour, 8:30 - 9:30am. 
• We regularly gather for morning tea and a catch up afterwards. 

We look forward to welcoming you and your family at our next Mass as we come together to celebrate the gift of faith and the joy of community.

Social media and new legislation - 'For the good of their wellbeing'

Dear Parents and Carers, 

I am writing to inform you about an important piece of legislation that will affect how children use social media. 

The Government has passed a new legislation Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, with the aim of protecting our children from online harms associated with social media use. 

Information about the legislation:

• The new law will take effect on the 10th of December 2025. 
• Under this legislation, social media platforms have the responsibility for implementing age restrictions, rather than the legal burden on parents or children.
• Social Media platforms are expected to provide users with a choice of age assurance methods, including alternative to government issued identification. 
• The new law applies both to new accounts and to existing accounts held by under 16-year-olds once the law takes effect.

Which platforms are age-restricted:

There is no formal list of platforms that will be restricted. The legislation's concept of an "age-restricted social media platform" is defined as an electronic service whose sole purpose or a significant purpose is to enable online social interaction between two or more end-users, allows end-users to link to or interact with some or all the other end-users, and allows end-users to post material on the service.

Some platforms included: Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X (Twitter) and YouTube

Why does this matter for your family:

As a parent or carer, you likely already manage and monitor your child's online activity. This law reflects broader concerns about how social media use can affect children's wellbeing. The Government stated its aim to reduce the risk of harm to age-restricted users of social media.

What does this mean for your child:

If your child is under the age of 16, they will be required not to hold a social media account on the platforms covered. Even if your child already has an account, the platform will need to identify and take steps for compliance once the law begins. 

Next steps you can take: A recommendation

• Start open and ongoing conversations - Talk about what the new law means and that social media platforms will soon require users to be 16 years or older.
• Review and manage existing social media accounts – Sit down with your child and review social media platforms they use. Save or download meaningful memories.
• Build digital literacy and critical thinking - Help your child understand how social media works (algorithms, targeted ads, likes, and why people only show certain parts of their lives online). Introduce trusted websites such as esafety.gov.au for videos, games, and family guides on staying safe online.
• Create healthy technological routines - Establish screen-free times and zones (e.g., during meals or after a certain time at night). Encourage social connections such as sport or community groups.
• Use parental tools and safety settings.
• Collaborate with your school and other parents - Connect with other parents to share strategies and support.
• Support your child emotionally through the change – Validate their feelings, reassure them that friendships can continue in other ways. Remind them that this law is about protection, not punishment. 

Please note that the information provided above is only a brief overview of the new legislation — for more detailed and up-to-date guidance, parents are encouraged to visit the eSafety Commissioner’s website at https://www.esafety.gov.au/ 

Sara Ljuboja
School Counsellor