Dear Parents, Students and Friends

College Musical

Excitement is growing for our highly anticipated biennial college musical. This year, our chosen musical is We Will Rock You: School Edition by Queen and Ben Elton. I had the pleasure of attending a Sunday rehearsal last weekend and was absolutely in awe of the standard of theatrical performances and musical genius of this production. Get ready to be inspired! You’ll be tapping your feet in your seat or up dancing to the iconic music of Queen. Please secure your tickets as soon as possible by following this link:

https://bpav.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/147478

This can also be found on our college Facebook page.

Congratulations
Congratulations to Mr Beau Nebelung and wife, Emma who have become proud parents to their first child, Nina. Warmest congratulations from the Carroll community!

Mr Nebelung has joined the Carroll team this term, replacing Mrs Karen Lyttle while on leave. Mr Nebelung has joined us from St John Paul II College in Canberra.

As we mark National Reconciliation Week 2025, I was recently asked, What does Reconciliation mean to you – personally, professionally and in your community?

Personally

Reconciliation means a commitment to listening, learning, and growing in understanding. It calls me to confront the historical injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and reflect on how I, as an individual, can contribute to healing and unity. Reconciliation is deeply connected to my faith, which teaches respect for the dignity of every person as made in the image and likeness of God.

Professionally

As a Catholic school Principal, Reconciliation means creating a school culture that honours and respects the rich heritage, contributions, and rights of Australia’s First Nations peoples. It involves embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in our curriculum and ensuring our school community actively works towards justice, equity, and inclusion. It also entails supporting staff and students in growing their understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories.

In my community
Reconciliation is about fostering relationships built on trust, respect, and shared purpose. It means working collaboratively with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to ensure their voices are heard and valued in shaping our shared future. It also means recognising and celebrating the strength and resilience of First Nations peoples as an integral part of our nation’s identity.

Siloam

Each term, Principals travel to St Clement’s Retreat and Conference Centre in Galong in rural NSW for spiritual renewal and leadership input. The focus last week was on listening and discernment as it relates to our life experiences and leadership, and what we can draw on from early Church teachings. Siloam offers a time of reflection outside of the busyness of our every day, in turn enriching our capacity to lead from the heart and meet the demands of our role as Principal.

Practicum Students

In an earlier newsletter edition this term, I highlighted the practicum students currently gaining experience at Carroll College. Just as we impart our knowledge and wisdom to these early career teachers, they in turn inspire us with their passion and enthusiasm for the vocation. I wish to congratulate Miss Mateja Kostrica who has today completed a highly successful six-week practicum with our TAS department, which now marks the completion of her degree. Congratulations Mateja!

Miss Kostrica is our team member In the Spotlight this week. I am sure you will enjoy reading about Mateja’s experience at Carroll College.

As the week draws to a close, I wish all families a safe and enjoyable long weekend. A reminder to Year 10 families that the Year 11 2026 Information Evening is being held on Tuesday 10 June at 6.00pm in the Hall. This is a compulsory parent/student meeting in preparation for subject selection for Years 11 & 12. We look forward to welcoming you to the college next week.

With respect and encouragement to you.

Mrs Jacqueline Heffernan
Principal

At Carroll College, our commitment to Catholic Social Teaching calls us to uphold the interconnected principles of Human Dignity and Care for our Common Home. These teachings remind us of the intrinsic value of every individual and the importance of actively caring for the environment in which we all live, recognising that environmental stewardship is deeply connected to ensuring dignity and justice for all.

On Friday, 29 August, Carroll College will demonstrate our solidarity and compassion through our annual Winter Sleepout. This meaningful initiative allows students to gain a small insight into the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness, fostering empathy and raising vital funds and awareness. Guided by dedicated staff and the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), participants will engage in activities designed to deepen their understanding of social inequality and inspire ongoing service. We warmly invite all students to participate, embodying our college’s core values. To support this essential initiative, please donate directly to an individual participant, (who are gradually joining) or contribute to the general Winter Sleepout fund via this link. https://shoutforgood.com/fundraisers/CarrollCollegeWinterSleepout

Building upon these foundational principles, our Year 12 Studies in Catholic Thought classes recently visited Broulee Beach as part of their exploration of "Care for our Common Home." Through collaboration with Eurobodalla Council and Tangaroa Blue, students practically applied their learning by actively participating in environmental stewardship. Using Tangaroa Blue’s innovative app for marine debris monitoring, students collected and categorised data, deepening their appreciation for environmental justice and human dignity through hands-on experience. This activity fostered critical thinking and strengthened their commitment to sustainable living practices, preparing students to become thoughtful leaders who protect both human dignity and our shared environment. Thank you to Mr Paul Graziani and Ms Izabela Rudol for accompanying and supporting our students during this meaningful activity.

Year 8 Formation Day

On Friday, 30 May, our Year 8 students gathered at the beautiful Broulee Surf Club for their annual Formation Day. This special day provided an opportunity for students to step away from their regular routines and engage deeply with themes of reflection, connection, and spiritual growth.

Throughout the day, students explored the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit, considering how these divine blessings manifest uniquely within each individual. Activities were thoughtfully designed to encourage students to not only appreciate their own spiritual gifts but also to recognise and celebrate those of their peers, fostering a deeper understanding and connection within the year group.

We extend our gratitude to all staff involved in facilitating this impactful day and look forward to seeing our students continue to flourish, guided by the Holy Spirit. Particular thanks must go to Mrs Belle Barling, who always ensures that Formation Days are planned with care and meticulous attention to detail.

Mrs Anna Smart
Religious Education Coordinator

Year 10 Pastoral Day

Our Year 10 students had a fabulous day on Friday. Thank you to Ms Boller for her creativity and coordination of the day. The students learned all about mental fitness and the importance of listening to what their bodies need and when to respond to the mental challenges. In preparation for the day Year 10 completed a google form about mental and physical health habits. Time was spent focussing on their own statistics and results along with learning how to change the habit of the mind.

In the middle session of the day students worked with two extraordinary guest speakers Glenn Cotter from RUOK and Lulu Henley from Soul Tribe Yoga to educate both the boys and girls on how to improve, enhance or change their mental capacities.

Thank you to Mrs Shilling, Mr Fogarty, Mrs Dell, Miss Large, Mrs Mahony and Mr Bissell for running workshops in the final periods for students to learn tools on how to overcome those inner challenges. A big thank you to Mrs Whiteman and Mrs Urbanik for feeding everyone a delicious lunch.

The Year 10s present were exceptional and we look forward to working with this year group in the future.

DOOF 2025

DOOF 2025 was a night of dress up, dancing and fun. The theme this year was 80’s disco. Students were entertained by our very talented college musicians and singers and our resident DJ Mr Matt O’Brien. To keep up the energy levels students enjoyed a light meal prepared and served by Mrs Whiteman, Mrs Dalgleish and Mrs Urbanik. Thank you to the Senior Leadership Team and Ms Boller for their organisation and a large number of staff who supervised the event.

Inaugural Mental Health Forum

Adolescent Mental Health is an important issue for our students. They are aware of the issues of concern and keen to support themselves and each other. Carroll College was invited to join with other schools across the region to attend the inaugural Mental Health Forum hosted by Narooma High. During the day students listened to information and actively participated in discussions and shared ideas on how to support and improve adolescent mental health. We look forward to engaging with some new ideas in this space. Thank you to Mrs Davis and the students who represented the college at this event.

Police Talks

On Tuesday Senior Constable Sinead Linton from the Police Youth Engagement Team visited the college to speak with our Year 7 and Year 8 students. The talks covered a range of important and relevant topics for the students. Online safety practices, recognising sexting, sextortion and responding correctly, along with expectations around polite language and legal consequences were all discussed. Our students listened attentively and engaged confidentially. At the end of the presentation there was even a question or two about how to join the Police force. We are always appreciative of the support the Youth engagement Team offer the college.

If parents need any support responding to issues around online behaviour the Police are more than happy to offer advice or you can contact the esafety commissioner for resources or to report concerns.

World Environment Day - Thursday 5 June 

College Vice Captain Erin Drewsen designed activities to recognise this important day. Together with the SRC Erin led a range of activities in the HUB. In addition to these activities, the canteen presented a meat-free menu and students and staff were encouraged to turn off non-essential lights in classrooms and spaces across the college. Thank you Erin for initiating and leading this important awareness raising event.

Urban Challenge

On Wednesday night the first meeting for the 2025 Year 10 Urban Challenge was held in the Hub. This will be the third year we have offered this amazing program.

Urban Challenge is a family-owned and operated company with a passion for providing young people with a genuine positive learning experience usually based in the outdoors. They have used this knowledge and experience to create a program that is unique, innovative and engages students in the urban environment – Sydney!

During the meeting parents were able to hear more details about the three-day, two night action packed adventure in Sydney which includes team challenges, exploration of the sites around Sydney, unique places to stay and opportunities to complete some community service - all in a supervised setting.

Thank you to everyone who attended to hear from Paul the Managing Director of Urban Challenge explain the experience. We are very excited to be able to offer this experience to our Year 10 students.

Academic Care

Our topics for Week 6 for each Year level are listed below. Parents are encouraged to talk about these topics with their children.

Year 7- Wellio Lesson ‘Healthy versus unhealthy relationships’

Year 8 - Wellio Lesson ‘Digital Footprint’ Sharing information Online

Year 9 - Wellio Lesson ‘Belonging and Inclusivity’

Year 10- Academic focus UAC Steps to Uni for Year 10 Students, Beyond Platform

Year 11- Academic focus Study Skills Handbook Lesson Managing Part-time Jobs

Year 12- Academic focus Study Skills Handbook Lesson Preparing for Exam Blocks

Families Week

Last week was Families Week (18-25 May). This year’s theme is ‘Lending a hand to thrive: supporting each other’.

National Families Week is an opportunity to think about how to keep your family going strong. Here are ideas:

· Praise and encourage each other. Positive attention creates a sense of warmth and care.

· Talk and listen to each other. Good communication strengthens your relationships.

· Set up family routines. Predictability in family life can help you cope with challenges.

· Try a new community group. Community connections are a great source of support.

And remember – support can keep your family bonds strong and help you thrive. Support can come from extended family, friends, community organisations and professionals. Your state or territory parenting helpline can be a great resource too.

Check the link for more tips on creating strong families: https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/family-life/routines-rituals-relationships/strong-families

Council of Catholic Schools Parents NSW

The CCSP are offering free webinars to support parents across a range of topics. For parents of our senior students you may find this one of interest.

SUPPORTING YOUR CHILD THROUGH THE HSC

HELP YOUR CHILD NAVIGATE THE PRESSURES OF THE HSC

For parents and carers of Years 11–12 students

Presented by Beyond

Wednesday 11 June 7pm – 8pm CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Parents are encouraged to contact The Pastoral Care Team or your child’s House Coordinator if you have any questions or concerns.

Kind regards

Mrs Louise Ibbett
Assistant Principal Pastoral Care

Year 11 2026 Subject Selection Information Evening (Tuesday 10 June, 6pm)

The Subject Selection Information Evening for Year Eleven students 2026 will be held on Tuesday evening, 10 June at 6.00pm, in the Carroll College Hall. Attendance at this evening is compulsory as it will be the best opportunity for you and your child to hear about the specific requirements for Stage Six and the Higher School Certificate.

The night will consist of a presentation by members of the school Leadership Team on the process for selecting subjects and demands of Stage Six study, followed by input from leaders of each Key Learning Area and course teachers about their subjects, with an opportunity for parents and students to ask questions about each subject. The evening will also include information about the requirements for the HSC and ATAR. This is a valuable night for you to access information needed for your child to make an informed choice.

Students, Parents and Carers will be emailed the 2026 Stage Six Course Information Booklet prior to the information evening. All parents and carers are advised to read the booklet carefully as it contains comprehensive course descriptions and detailed explanations of the College and NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) requirements for your child’s “Pattern of Study” in the Preliminary Year. Please find below the key dates and actions required for the 2026 Year 11 Subject Selection Process. All this information will be unpacked and discussed at the Subject Selection evening on Tuesday 10 June starting promptly at 6.00pm.

Key Dates for Year 11 2026 Parents and Students

Students will select their subjects online and will be emailed an access code as per the key dates above. When completing the web preferences of subjects, students will need to take into consideration the following:

· Their interests – what they enjoy learning

· Recommendation from Key Learning Area and Learning Advisors

· Information from the Subject Selection evening

· Their academic ability, based upon their performance in previous years

· Future career pathways

Finally, please take the time to work slowly through the information and resources pertaining to the subject selection process. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at the College. I am looking forward to continuing work in partnership with you and your child during the subject selection process.

Year 9/10 2026 Subject Selection Information Evening (Monday 16 June, 6pm)

The Subject Selection Information Evening for Year Nine and Ten students 2026 will be held on Monday evening, 16 June at 6.00pm, in the Carroll College Hall. Attendance at this evening is compulsory as it will be the best opportunity for you and your child to hear about the specific requirements for Stage Five (Years Nine and Ten) and the Record of School Achievement (RoSA).

The night will consist of a presentation by members of the school Leadership Team on the process for selecting subjects and demands of Stage Five study, followed by time for you to meet with KLA staff to answer any questions you may have about particular subjects and what they involve.

Next year, Year 9/10 students (2026) will be required to study TWO elective subjects. As each of the elective courses will be studied over one or two years, students will be able to develop extensive knowledge and skills in their chosen areas of study and while not essential, the electives they study will provide a solid foundation for similar courses in the senior school. Electives give students an opportunity to study a subject they really enjoy and want to pursue. This is also a good lead-up to choosing subjects for the Higher School Certificate at the end of Year 10.

This year students will continue to select their subjects online. They will be emailed a link and an access code by Tuesday 17 June to enable them to complete this process. All subject choices need to be finalised on Web Preferences by Friday Week 9 (27 June).

When considering subject choices:

· Students should select courses that they are interested in.

· Select courses that they believe they could be good at

Although not essential, they may also wish to:

· Select courses that they can further pursue in Senior school.

It is important that they:

· Do not select courses only because their friends have chosen it.

· Do not choose courses because they think they know who will teach that course.

Important considerations when selecting Elective Courses:

· That all courses initially offered, may not run in 2026 if student numbers are not sufficient

Overall Subject Selection Process for Students and Parents

The following process will allow information to be gained from several sources and ensures that many aspects are considered before students make their final selection.

· Reading appropriate material: The Stage Five Information Booklet will be provided on our Assessment @ Carroll website over the next week. Other information can be sourced through the NESA website http://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/home

· Asking questions: To those who know your child’s strengths and weaknesses including Teachers and Leaders of Key Learning Areas

· Attending the information night on Monday, 16 June (6pm)

· Making TWO elective choices in preferential order. Choices are due to be completed online by Week 9 Friday (27 June)

· The Assistant Principal (Curriculum, Learning and Innovation) will follow up with students who may be required to reselect if students are not successful in getting their preferred choices. Students will be informed of their final choice by Week 3, Term 3.

I look forward to meeting you and ensuring your child is given every opportunity to excel.

Yours sincerely

Mr Andrew Kenneally
Assistant Principal Curriculum, Learning and Innovation

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 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.

Years 7-10 Student Absences

As we approach the end of Semester 1 for Years 7 to 10, I would like to remind parents about completing your child's absence reasons. Year 11 reports will be distributed at the end of Week 6 and explained absences ensures your child’s attendance records are accurate and reported correctly.

To complete your child's absence reports:

1. Log in to your Sentral Parent Portal.

2. Navigate to the Absences section.

3. Review your unexplained absences and provide a brief explanation for each.

Parents can review their child’s attendance records by selecting their child's profile and navigating to Attendance.

This week’s reminders …

· Monday 9 June is a public holiday.

· On Tuesday 10 June we will hold our Year 11 2026 Information evening consisting of a subject information presentation in the Hall followed by subject seminars. The evening begins at 6.00pm.

· We look forward to having Year 6 students from St Mary’s and St Bernard’s primary schools at the College on Thursday 12 June for their Sacramental Retreat Day.

· Good luck to the Touch Football teams competing on Thursday 12 June and Thursday 19 June.

· We have a College Assembly scheduled for Monday 16 June. The SRC students will receive their badges and celebrate with a morning tea.

· On Monday 16 June the Year 9 and 10, 2026 Information Evening will be held in the Hall.

· The Archdiocese Soccer Championships will be held in Canberra on Tuesday 17 June.

· On Wednesday 18 June the Long Jump events will take place at the College.

· The SLT presents World Day against Child Labour in the Hub during AM break on Wednesday 18 June.

· The College Athletics Carnival will take place at Captain Oldrey Park on Friday 20 June.

Mrs Sandra Harris
Administration Coordinator

• BPay - your details are on the top right hand corner of your fee statement. These are emailed once a month.
• Compass - Your school fee balance and option to pay can be found on your Compass portal. Please note that this balance will also include any event payment plan payments still scheduled.
• Bpoint - this is a direct debit system. Bpoint direct debit can be set up to debit an account or credit card. To arrange a direct debit please email us at finance.ccb@cg.catholic.edu.au 

Our sincere condolences to Annabelle Whitty (Year 7) and Mack Whitty (Year 11) on the passing of their Grandmother.

This week, the Carroll College community has paused to commemorate National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week, two significant events that invite us to reflect deeply on our shared history and ongoing journey toward healing and unity.

National Sorry Day, observed annually on May 26, is a solemn reminder of the experiences of the Stolen Generations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families and communities. It is a time to acknowledge the pain, grief and loss that continues to affect Indigenous families and communities across Australia.

To honour this important day, Indigenous students from Carroll College, along with members of our Student Leadership Team, participated in the Sorry Day Bridge Walk in Batemans Bay. This walk was a powerful symbol of unity and reflection, where our students stood in solidarity with the local community to remember those impacted by these injustices.

We were immensely proud to see three of our Indigenous students speak during the official ceremony. Their words offered insight, strength, and hope, and reminded us all of the importance of truth-telling and listening. Through their leadership, they not only honoured the past but also reinforced Carroll College’s commitment to reconciliation and respect within our broader community.

Sorry Day also marks the beginning of National Reconciliation Week, held from May 27 to June 3. This year’s theme – ‘Bridging now to next’ – encourages all Australians to consider how we can each contribute to a more unified, equitable future. The College started reconciliation week by listening to a reading of the book ‘We Are Australians’ by Duncan Smith and Nicole Godwin, a beautifully written and illustrated reflection on identity, belonging and respect.

Following this, students across the school created ‘Sorry Hands’, a creative and thoughtful activity where they expressed how we, as individuals and as a school community, are working towards reconciliation. Students identified ways we can deepen our commitment, including listening with empathy, learning more about Indigenous cultures, and actively supporting truth and justice.

As we move through Reconciliation Week, we encourage every member of our community to carry forward the spirit of these events, not just during this time of national reflection, but every day. Together, through understanding, respect, and action, we can contribute to a brighter and more reconciled future.

Mrs Michelle Katuke
Aboriginal Contact Teacher