2017 GOSPEL SPIRITUALITY

ST PIUS X COLLEGE CHATSWOOD • Autumn 2017

PIUS In ProfileWhat do we actually stand for? What do we believe in?St Pius X College’s 1200 students from Years 5 to 12 and staff attended the College’s Commencement Mass at Our Lady of Dolours Church to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the College and the 2017 theme of Gospel Spirituality.

College Principal Mr John Couani said

“We gather to start the year exactly as the College has done here in this Church every year for 80 years.

What do we actually stand for? What do we believe in?

Ask yourself – Do I believe in Jesus? Do I believe in helping the poor? Do I believe that everyone is equal on earth and in heaven? Do I believe in justice, in peace, in accepting those who are different from me regardless of their race, gender, age and religion? Do I believe in forgiveness and compassion? Then you believe in Gospel Spirituality. This is what the 2017 theme means. We must live it out.

Let us put our faith into action!”

2 • PIUS IN PROFILE

Welcome to the first edition of Pius in Profile for 2017.

It is an exciting year for St Pius X College Chatswood as we celebrate our 80th Anniversary as a school in the Edmund Rice tradition. In 1937 the Christian Brothers accepted the invitation of the Parish Priest to establish a Catholic College for boys in the heart of Chatswood. This time 80 years ago, there were 5

brothers and 147 students here at Anderson Street.

Whilst the College has continually expanded and evolved to meet the challenges and opportunities of providing contemporary boys’ education, we continue to be inspired and directed by our Mission and Vision “to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ through quality Catholic education in the Edmund Rice tradition to make a positive difference in our world”.

We look forward to celebrating this significant milestone with our College community at the special events we have planned for the year ahead, which you are all very welcome to attend (see page 16).

Gospel Spirituality, one of the College’s four touchstones, has been chosen as the College’s theme for its 80th Anniversary year and it will be integrated in pastoral and learning activities as well as liturgical celebrations. In addition, each Year (5–12) has a Gospel passage linked to its pastoral care theme that will be a constant reference point for students throughout the year (see page 6).

Academic achievement in an explicit and authentic Catholic environment continues to be our primary

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME

GOSPEL SPIRITUALITY

goal. We congratulate the HSC Class of 2016 and their dedicated teachers and families (see page 3).

I am looking forward to the year ahead and the many engaging learning opportunities for our students – academic, sport and outdoor education, performing and visual arts, learning enrichment, robotics, social justice partnerships and MindMatters, our integrated student wellbeing program.

John Couani • PRINCIPAL

Student and Staff Commitment 2017

Commencement Mass Eucharistic Ministers, College Captain, Vice Captains and House Captains with Principal Mr John Couani, Mrs Therese Maclaine (College Board), Brother Carl Sherrin, Father Paul Finucane and Deacon Kevin.

A LEADING CATHOLIC BOYS’ COLLEGE IN THE EDMUND RICE TRADIT ION • YEARS 5 – 12

ST PIUS X COLLEGE

Our sporting fields at Oxford Falls will be open 8 am – 12 noon

OPEN DAY

Full details at www.spx.nsw.edu.au

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME 12 NOON

SATURDAY 18 MARCH • 10 AM – 2 PM

ENROLLING NOW

for 2019 Years 5, 6 & 7

College Dux Stewart Ross with Performing Arts Coordinator Ms Tracey Bates and Principal Mr John Couani

2016 ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Congratulations to the Class of 2016 HSC High Achievers’ insights

St Pius X provided me with the opportunity to … pursue my love of music and science simultaneously through great science and performing arts departments. Stewart Ross, College Dux

St Pius X provided a supportive platform to do my best and achieve my potential. The advice and guidance from the teachers and the support amongst the students, especially when the pressure was on, was really vital to succeed. Alex Silvanian

Starting at St Pius in Year 7 has been an awesome journey of challenges and experiences … central values of mateship and camaraderie are so deeply cemented into the heart of the College culture. Knowing that your mates will always have your back is an attribute that allowed myself as well as the rest of my cohort to excel not only academically but in all facets of College life. Samuel Calamos

St Pius X College gave me access to an environment that was academically challenging yet socially supportive … I will forever remember and value Pius as the place where I learned to value my friendships, balance my interests and take advantage of as many positive opportunities as I can. Nicholas Parker

Led by College Captain Liam Houlihan, the 2016 HSC Class fulfilled their pledge to make the College an Inclusive Community.

In the tradition of the College, they strived for excellence and led by example in all aspects of College life – academic, spiritual, sport and outdoor education, music, drama, arts, robotics, debating, social justice, service and student wellbeing.

We thank them for their lasting contribution to the life of the College, congratulate them on their achievements and wish them every success for the future. I know they will continue to make a positive difference in the world.

John Couani Principal

On behalf of the graduating class of 2016, I say thank you for our time at St Pius … We are proud to be part of the St Pius X and Edmund Rice traditions and culture, the community itself, and the values they have instilled in us as young men, such as the pursuit of justice, respect for ourselves, others and the environment, and the timeless spirit of faith and hard work that we will carry proudly into the world.

Liam Houlihan, 2016 College Captain

College DuxStewart Ross 99.15

All Rounders (attaining Band 6 in 10 or more units)

Nicholas ParkerStewart Ross

Distinguished Achievers94 mentions

Total Number of Bands 5, 6, E3 and E4482

100% of St Pius X students attained Top 2 BandsEnglish Extension 1, English Extension 2, Music Extension, Music 1 and Music 2

Courses above the State Average81%

Summary of HSC results by ATARATAR 95 and above 15 studentsATAR 90 and above 27 studentsATAR above 80 42% cohort

ARTEXPRESS Nomination Zac Tomaszewski

ENCORE NominationNektary Kotlaroff

Congratulations to the HSC Class of 2016, an exceptional group of young men.

Congratulations to our students who attained ATARs over 95, some pictured above.

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COLLEGE ADVANCEMENTS

The College was honoured that Dr Wayne Tinsey, Executive Director EREA, visited the College to conclude the School Renewal Process and to launch the College’s Strategic Improvement Plan 2017–2019.

“The Strategic Improvement Plan is the result of extensive consultations with parents, students, staff, the College Board and Leadership Team. The EREA Renewal Process in 2016 was also invaluable and recommendations have been

incorporated. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone for their enriching contributions to the Strategic Improvement Plan which so comprehensively charts our future directions for the next three years and beyond.” Mr John Couani, Principal

The School Renewal Process Report and Strategic Improvement Plan 2017–2019 can be viewed on the College website.

Strategic Improvement Plan 2017–2019

William Charles Barnes, 1st Year 1949

First lesson for Year 11 Drama in the new Drama Studio

Significant improvements continue to be made at the College’s Chatswood and Oxford Falls campuses.

The Brothers’ House has been transformed and now comprises:

» New College Chapel

» Drama studio/classroom

» Mission and Identity Centre

» Learning Support and Enrichment offices

» Expanded Counselling and Wellbeing Services offices.

This has freed up other spaces in the school for classroom and contemporary learning spaces, such as in the Leary Learning Centre.

A shade structure and students’ lunchtime seating are now planned to replace the big tree in the yard, which has been removed for safety reasons.

Campus DevelopmentsYour Building Fund in action

Dr Wayne Tinsey with Mr Couani and College Captain Joseph Unwin

In establishing this scholarship, the College publicly and gratefully acknowledges the generosity of the late William Charles Barnes.

Mr Barnes was student number 836. Born in 1936, he was enrolled at the College in 1945 and travelled from his home in North Sydney to attend school. As a child, Mr Barnes found learning difficult due to his poor eyesight but excelled academically once at the College. He graduated from the College in 1953 and attained a Commonwealth Scholarship, studied Agricultural Science at Sydney University, and had a long and distinguished career as a wheat researcher and inventor at the NSW Department of Agriculture.

Upon his death, Mr Barnes made a significant bequest to the College. It was his wish that a scholarship be established to provide education for boys who would not otherwise be able to attend the College and who may, like him, have other adversities to overcome.

William Charles Barnes

Mr Barnes, student 836, attended the College from 1945 to 1953.

Scholarship

Student Leaders 2017 investiture“There is a spark in all of us. But our greatest challenge in life is how we ignite that spark.

Pius provides countless opportunities to its students so that they can blossom and, at the

end of the day, let their light shine.”

Joseph Unwin, 2017 College Captain

College Captain Joseph Unwin being congratulated by College Principal Mr John Couani

LEADERSHIP

Effective leadership

St Pius X College student leaders joined more than 60 student leaders from Broken Bay Diocese at Mass and a Workshop with Bishop Comensoli.

Last year, student leaders in Years 7, 8 and 9 were privileged to attend a Leadership Forum where guest speakers presented on contemporary and best practice leadership. Thank you to

» Mr Brian Canavan, Head of NRL Football

» Mr Nick Papastamatis, Former College Captain and CEO Balance Health and Performance

» Ms Eunice Grimes, Mentor for Tribal Warrior and Clean Slate Without Prejudice, joint programs of Redfern Police and Tribal Warrior Association for Indigenous Culture

» Inspector Sam Crisafulli, Redfern Police Local Area Command.

Lord God,We, the Seniors and Prefects of St Pius X College,

pledge ourselves on behalf of the student bodyto provide Christian leadership for the College community.

As we prepare for the journey through our Senior Year,we ask you to walk with us.

May we be leaders in your name.May we be to our fellow students, men of courage and compassion –

strong to stand up for that which promotes peace and justice in the classroom,on playing fields and in the school yard.

We pledge to use our authority to help and empower others.Amen

Year 12 2017 Leaders’ Pledge

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MISSION

Year Theme Gospel Pastoral Care Theme

Growing

Year 5 From little things, big things grow

The Parable of the Mustard SeedMatthew 13:31-32, Mark 4:30-32, Luke 13:18-19

Part of Community

Year 6 “Come and see” The First Disciples CallJohn 1:35-51

Friendship and Respect

Year 7 Good soil Parable of the Sower/SoilsMatthew 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-34, Luke 8:1-15

Belonging to a Team

Year 8 Know your value The Birds of the AirMatthew 6:25-27Don’t Worry, Trust in God Philippians 4:6-8, Philippians 4:13

Challenge, Choice, Resilience

Service & Action

Year 9 “… Go and do likewise!”

The Parable of the Good SamaritanLuke 10:25-37

Respectful Men of Honour

Year 10 “... You did it to me!” For I was hungry …Matthew 25:34-40

Skills for Life

Year 11 Stewardship Parable of the TalentsMatthew 25:14-30, Luke 19:12-27

Developing Leaders

Commissioning

Year 12 Go make a difference The Great CommissionMatthew 28:16-20

Meeting the Future

The theme for 2017 is Gospel Spirituality, one of the four Touchstones of the College which underpin everything we do at St Pius X College. Throughout the year, Gospel Spirituality will be integrated in liturgical celebrations and pastoral and learning activities.

In addition, for each year group from 5 to 12 a Gospel theme will be linked to their own pastoral care theme as a constant reference point for the students.

“And what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and to love tenderly and to walk humbly with your God.”Micah 6:8

College Chapel The Chapel is being refurbished currently and the College community – students, staff and parishioners – is looking forward to Mass being celebrated regularly at the College. The Chapel will also be used for Liturgies and RE classes.

GOSPEL SPIRITUALITY

Gospel Spirituality

Founder’s DayThe Founder’s Day Festival is our annual day to raise awareness of social justice issues and significant funds for our partner schools and communities.

Guests on the day included Eddies Entertainers from St Edmund’s College Wahroonga, students and staff from ‘The Haven’ in Gosford and Liam Knight.

Special commendation to 2016 Year 11 students who led the day brilliantly, hosts Matthew Hawthorne, Brodie Jones and Lachlan Ceravolo and the many talented groups and bands – student and staff!

Combining the funds raised at Founder’s Day, Junior School Walkathon and Market Day, as well as donations from parents, more than $40,000 has been donated to our partner schools and charitable organisations.

Immersions Continuing the College’s mutually rewarding partnerships with partner schools in Bowraville, Walgett and Wahroonga, 15 Year 10 students and five staff went on immersion at the end of Term 4, 2016.

MISSION AND IDENTITY

Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders (EREBB) was formed in 2014 to establish an inclusive international network of Edmund Rice educational communities. St Pius X College is honoured to be a Lead School, sharing identity resources and using virtual forums for connecting students and staff around the world.

Indian conference inspires

From Europe to Africa to the Americas – St Pius X EREBB partner schools Mt Edmund’s College, Pretoria, South Africa St Anselm’s College, Birkenhead, Liverpool, England St Mary’s College, Belfast, Northern Ireland Iona College, New York, USA Stella Maris College, Montevideo, Uruguay Cardinal Newman College, Buenos Aires, Argentina Br Rice College, Chicago, USA Fe y Allegria 26 College, Lima, Peru St Thomas More Collegiate, Vancouver, Canada Damian Memorial College, Hawaii, USA St Kevin’s College, Redcastle, New Zealand

Skype, email, snail mail connects Edmund Rice studentsIn 2017 Year 7 will continue to connect with Edmund Rice fellow students through Skype, email and snail mail. St Pius X students are keen to share their experiences as Edmund Rice students and of the EREA Touchstones with fellow students overseas, even though for many of our correspondents English is not their first language.

During the summer holidays, College Captain Joseph Unwin attended the four-day Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) Student Leaders Conference along with 45 other School Leaders from EREA schools around Australia.

A highlight of the conference was Skype conference calls to fellow Edmund Rice School Student Leaders in England, Ireland and Canada as part of the Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders (EREBB) initiative.

The northern hemisphere student leaders offered great insight, being half way through their school year and tenure as leaders, but were also interested in the many student initiatives our school leaders were able to share.

Three schools in England, Northern Ireland and Canada were schools with which our Year 7 RE students had email and Skype contact in 2016 to explain our Australian interpretation of the lived values of Edmund Rice and the EREA Touchstones.

Student leaders from Vancouver, were taken aback to hear Bindoon Catholic Agricultural College Captain (WA) Sarah Barker, describing responsibilities for transporting livestock to Shows and markets and describing her aspiration to become a helicopter pilot on her family’s NT cattle station where mustering 20,000 Brahman and Water Buffalo is the norm.

Mr Sean Brannan, Head of Student Services

A broad community of schools at 2017 EREA School Leaders Conference

St Pius X College Principal Mr John Couani attended the EREBB Congress in India in October, which was attended by 200 delegates from Edmund Rice schools and shelters from 22 countries – many of them serving their countries’ poorest people.

Mr Couani said, “I returned inspired, challenged and personally committed to our global partnerships and to our role as a Lead School for EREBB to provide liberating education by forging new relationships and providing practical support to fellow schools”.

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TEACHING AND LEARNING

Thirty St Pius X College students participated in the third Sydney Chinese Language Spectacular at Sydney Town Hall. The Spectacular aims to give students studying Chinese an opportunity to showcase their skills and promotes greater understanding of the Chinese culture.

“Mr Couani and I were thrilled to see how wonderfully our College was represented by the students, who performed a dramatic sketch based on the Chinese cartoon ‘Echo’… A highlight of the evening was the fantastic effort of Ronan Apcar, 2016 Year 10 Chinese, who was one of two hosts of the evening. Ronan was an amazing ambassador for the College and a role model for all 1000 students in attendance on how rewarding and important language learning can be, especially in fostering ‘harmony and dreams’, which was the theme of the evening, and extending the hand of friendship to others”, Ms Kara Manga LOTE Studies Coordinator said.

Over 1000 boys and girls from various schools around Sydney took part in this event; sharing and spreading multiculturalism and the love for Chinese Language and Culture.

Our group sat through stunning and talented performances all performed in Chinese and by Act 14, it was time for us to go … backstage. Amidst the buzz and increasing tension, we were really excited to perform. Onstage, we performed confidently and with pride in our school. I think that we can all agree that we had a great time at the Chinese Spectacular, it was such a privilege to be performing at the Town Hall and spreading our passion for the Chinese language.

Ben Marino, Year 7 Chinese 2016,

Spectacular!Contemporary learning In both the Senior and Junior Schools, areas are being transformed to provide contemporary learning spaces.

The Leary Learning Centre (pictured) has been transformed to provide a contemporary learning space which can be used for multiple classes.

In the Junior Resource Centre (pictured), new furniture, including bean bags and cubes, are providing Junior School students with areas to learn, read and relax.

The biannual Chinese Language and Cultural Tour, which has been highly valued by students of Chinese in previous years, is being planned for September.

CHINESE LANGUAGE AND CULTURAL TOUR 2017

Nicholas Parker, 2016 College Vice Captain, was one of 16 delegates chosen to travel to Europe for the nine country four-week UN Young Diplomats Tour in January.

I met with UN representatives, European politicians, diplomats, journalists, leading thinkers, NGOs, activists and grassroots organisations, developing a deeper understanding of the role of diplomacy and the evolution of nation-states in our global society.

St Pius was instrumental not only in assisting my participation, but in allowing me to develop the core thematic and general interest in the realm of foreign and European affairs that were assessed in order to be selected for the trip.

One personal favourite memory would have to be sitting in the main committee room at the EU Parliament in Brussels – it would be a fallacy to say that our world lives in a time of stability and certainty, however it was of immense relief and inspiration to see real people undertaking government with tangible, positive impacts on our society, and that there is in fact a beating heart behind institutions we increasingly see as cold hunks of steel, concrete and stone.

Nicholas Parker, College Vice Captain 2016

UN YOUNG DIPLOMATS TOUR Science Beyond SchoolThe National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) was a great experience as I was able to meet people from all over Australia who have similar interests in Science to me and people who are in the scientific research industry, as well as get an insight into the exciting research going on in the areas of lasers and cosmology in the world of science at the moment. Throughout the course I was able to go into many Australian National University and Canberra University laboratories and see the insides of places such as particle accelerators that you simply can’t see as a school student. In addition to going to see particle accelerators, laser labs, and deep space observatories we also were given the opportunity to engage in a conference with CERN at the Large Hadron Collider where we could ask the scientists there questions about their research and the life of a scientist. We were also able to experience lectures on topics such as high speed aerial travel from practising scientists including professors, and even a Nobel laureate Brian Schmidt who is credited with some of the most profound theories (such as the acceleration of the universe’s expansion) about our universe. This forum has enabled me to connect to people who I might be working with in the future, see new paths I could take in industry or research and to explore science beyond school. This was a great program and a very worthy experience and I’d like to thank the Chatswood Sunrise Rotary Club for sponsoring me, the NYSF and my school Science department for nominating me to attend. I would strongly recommend this opportunity to any aspiring scientist in the younger years. Daniel Butler, Year 12 2017

TEACHING AND LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

This year 25 students have elected to undertake a range of TAFE courses including Automotive and Construction, Travel and Events, Hospitality and Entertainment Industry. TAFE courses are increasingly popular at the College, providing “workplace ready” skills valued by employers.

Congratulations to Rory Halliday (SPX 2011) who received the Master Plumbers Association Gold Medal – the top recognition for the plumbing “Apprentice of the Year”.

Congratulations to College staff furthering their own knowledge and skills through challenging postgraduate qualifications:

» Dr Katie Meale, REC Coordinator, has attained a Doctorate in History, University of Wollongong.

» Mrs Michele Waterson, English Teacher and Debating and Public Speaking Convenor, has attained her Masters in Gifted Education, UNSW.

» Ms Frances Doyle, Visual Arts Teacher, is completing a Masters in English Literature (Children’s Literature), Macquarie University.

“Workplace ready” TAFE courses increasingly popular

TEACHING “A LEARNING PROFESSION”

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MISSION

Cricket News

SPORTIn 2016 more than 125 teams competed in 14 different sporting activities. Mr Matthew Stearn, Senior School Sportsmaster, thanked the College community for its ongoing active support: “whether you are a parent, committee member, coach, official or player you have all made the year a truly rewarding one for St Pius X Sport”.

Congratulations to Michael Hooper (SPX 2009), recipient for the second time of the John Eales Medal. Pictured here in the “blue and gold”.

College celebrates 50 years of Basketball“Basketball was first introduced to the school in 1967. As it was a change from the traditional cricket most took part. House teams would play against one another.” The Collegian 1967

In the 50 years since basketball was introduced, it has grown tremendously in popularity with 42 teams from Years 5–12 now representing the College and a number of boys assisting as badged referees.

St Pius X students have also gone on to play representative and professional basketball, including Josh Duinker (SPX 2007) who played for the Sydney Kings, Anthony Separovich who played College Basketball in America and Daniel Young (SPX 2013) who is currently in America playing College Basketball.

Above: 1sts Basketball 1967

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SWIMMING CARNIVALS

Junior School Swimming Carnival

The next day, the Junior School Swimming Carnival was a great day of competition, cheering and camaraderie and the winning House – Rice.

Dedication of Chaplin Oval Scoreboard to Mr Bryan HoyThe Chaplin Oval Scoreboard was officially dedicated to Mr Bryan Hoy at a special ceremony attended by Mr Hoy’s family, friends, College staff, and St Pius X and St Patrick’s College 1st XI Cricket teams and their supporters.

Congratulations to Dermott Beattie (Year 12) and Lachlan Hearne (Year 11) on their selection in the 2017 ISA Representative team to play Combined ACT Schools and Combined Associated Schools. They have also been selected in the NSW Country and City Schools Cricket Association Team and will compete in the NSW Schoolboys Championships. James Brown (Year 11) has been selected as a shadow player for the ISA Representative team. And congratulations to Jude Boyle, Year 9, pictured who played in a U14 representative side at the Tamworth Junior Cricket Carnival.

What a difference a day makes! Heavy rain, thunder and lightning forced the cancellation of the Senior School Swimming Carnival.

PERFORMING ARTSOUTDOOR EDUCATIONGOING FOR GOLD Four students are currently undertaking the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award and will be completing a four-day “adventurous journey” in Kanangra Boyd National Park at the end of Term 1. We congratulate these boys on striving for this highest award.

Congratulations also to students who completed the “adventurous journey” component for their Silver Award in October.

Friday night was spent camping near the top of Mount Wondabyne and included a trip to the summit … after an adventurous and exciting evening the boys braved more wind, rain, lightning and leeches as they walked to a lovely campsite under the base of a suspension bridge ... On Sunday morning, after a short liturgy, the students were rewarded with stunning Spring weather as they hiked to the finish … A swim in the Hawkesbury River was extremely refreshing and therapeutic for the many aching and tired muscles as the students waited for the train to return them to Hornsby station.

Mr Paul de Silva, Outdoor Education Coordinator

SNOWY HIKE

For well over 30 years the Snowy Hike has been a tradition at the College. A record 68 Year 11 students and 10 staff embarked on the challenging 100 kilometre, 6 day trek in 2016.

Above and Left: Silver Duke of Edinburgh Hike

Photo Credit: Jack Moran

Lights Camera Pius! Film FestivalMany students are keen filmmakers – in and out of school – and are keen to share their talents.

“This generation of young people are the most visually literate generation in history. In today’s age of mobile devices, internet and video games, our boys are constantly stimulated visually while they are out of school. For these visual learners, film can often convey a message better than printed or spoken words”, Visual Arts Teacher Ms Frances Doyle said.

To recognise and celebrate this, a student led Film Festival Committee was convened to produce the first Lights Camera Pius! Film Festival. It proved to be a very popular event in November, with students and staff crowding into the gym and spontaneous applause and laughter.

Prize winners Callum Fitzgibbon and Reece Williams said, “It’s not about the finish, it’s about the journey and what you learn on the way”.

Congratulations to Zac Tomaszewski (2016) Coasts, Photography nominated for ARTEXPRESS

Patrick Howe, Alexander McLarty and Andrew Jackson (Year 12) are to be congratulated on their curatorial skills and taking part in the Young Creators Program held by Willoughby Council. In conjunction with Mercy Catholic College students, they curated “Exploring Identity: Ned, Koala and Me”, featuring works by Rosie Deacon and Liam Benson.

The students met the artist to build a theme, then selected and displayed works which would work thematically and visually with works from another artist chosen by Mercy students.

Year 12 Art Class viewing the exhibition

Patrick Howe, Alexander McLarty and Andrew Jackson curated “Exploring Identity: Ned, Koala and Me” at The Concourse Art Space.

Congratulations to the Film Festival Committee and prize winners.

MISSIONVISUAL ARTS

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Young Creators at The Concourse Art Space

A Musical Celebration CD and USB

The College has released a commemorative CD for the 80th celebrations.

Launching A Musical Celebration, College Principal Mr John Couani said, “the Music and Ensemble program has been an outstanding feature of St Pius X College since 1937. From Cadet Bands to Eisteddfods and large-scale productions, music has continued to flourish over the decades in ways our founders could never have imagined. Today there are more than 500 students participating in 23 ensembles at the College. A Musical Celebration showcases the extraordinary musical capabilities of our students from Years 5–12 and their talented and dedicated Ensemble Directors. Featuring classical and contemporary repertoire, including our much loved College Song, A Musical Celebration is a tribute to music at the College over the last 80 years.”

Available from the Uniform Shop. Cost $10.

» Stewart Ross, College Dux, All Rounder and 2016 Performing Arts Captain who received the Alan Ward Memorial Prize for Contribution to Music and the Performing Arts upon graduation. Stewart was a member of the College Orchestra, Senior String Trio, Senior Concert Band and String Ensemble, and Ensemble Director of the Intermediate String Quartet.

» Nicholas Parker, All Rounder and 2016 College Vice Captain. Nicholas was a member of the Senior Concert, Jazz, Percussion and Orchestra and received The Keith Kellett Award for Leading Senior Band Member.

» Nektary Kotlaroff, nominated for Encore. Nektary was a member of the Senior Choir and Vocal Ensemble.

» Matthew Ross, High Achiever, Performing Arts Vice Captain who received The Alan Ward Memorial Award for Contribution to Music and the Performing Arts upon graduation. Matthew was a member of the Senior Concert Band, Senior Choir, Vocal Ensemble, Senior String Ensemble, Senior String Trio and College Orchestra. He was also in the College production I’m with Cupid.

HSC success for Music studentsCongratulations to all of our 2016 Music students who did so well in the HSC, in particular:

PERFORMING ARTS A year of outstanding Performing Arts ProductionsPreparations are underway for outstanding Performing Arts productions this year in celebration of the 80th Anniversary of the College.

Nicholas Parker (The Keith Kellett Award for Leading Band Member), Stewart Ross and Matthew Ross (both recipients of The Alan Ward Memorial Prize for Contribution to Music & the Performing Arts)

Nektary Kotlaroff , nominated for ENCORE

Boy Overboard – a story of adventure, ball control and hopeBoy Overboard depicts real-life events and is a moving play about young people overcoming the confusion of war, politics and the search for a safe haven. Based on the novel by Morris Gleitzman, it will be performed at the Sarto Centre, 28–30 March.

A Night Full of StarsAn unmissable evening A Night Full of Stars will showcase the incredible talents of our students and special guest Old Boy musicians and the College’s ensemble directors – a tribute to the College’s history and music at the College over the last 80 years. The Concourse, 18 May 2017.

Young Creators at The Concourse Art Space

Research shows that connectedness and working productively in a team are important for achieving positive educational outcomes.

Student wellbeing is a key focus of St Pius X. Our MindMatters program aims to create positive connections for students through a range of activities.

Mentoring Now in its sixth year, Peer Mentoring is a wonderful “buddy” program where a senior student (Year 11 or 12) mentors a younger student (Year 5, 6 or 8). Over time, a close supportive relationship is built up as they meet weekly at lunchtime and also participate in a range of fun and challenging activities after school such as rock climbing, trampolining, kayaking, beach/bush walks and paddle-boarding.

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STUDENT WELLBEING

Boxercise & BootcampBoxercise has been providing friendship, fun and fitness at the College for almost 10 years. It also strengthens students’ resilience and general sense of wellbeing. A popular recent initiative has been Boxercise Peer Connection with Mercy Catholic College.

Dads and Lads Bootcamp in 2016 enabled fathers and sons, mentors and buddies to share an early morning workout led by trainer Mr Joe Lynch and Rugby Coach Mr Francis Cullimore. It will be reconvened this year and mothers and sons are welcome to attend.

Building connections that promote happiness and wellbeing

College Counsellor Mr Rick Russo with Year 6 students who participated in a Mindfulness program “Peaceful Kids”

Wellbeing WeekThe College’s inaugural Wellbeing Week was introduced by student MindMatters teams and Wellbeing Prefects, incorporating:

� the launch of Wellbeing Wednesday, a student led homeroom program focusing on mental health topics (overcoming exam stress, diet and exercise, positive sleep patterns, benefits of positive interpersonal relationships and showing gratitude)

� a student-developed survey to raise awareness of wellbeing issues

� White Ribbon Day and Women’s Wall in the College Foyer celebrating the positive contribution of women to our lives and throughout history

� Peaceful Kids Mindfulness Program

� Lads and Dads Bootcamp.

Peer Mentoring

Buddies Not Bullies Bushwalk

White Ribbon Day

Launch of Wellbeing Week

Whispering WednesdaysJunior School boys are invited to Whispering Wednesdays in the Junior Resource Centre where they can “read a book, work on a world changing manuscript, sit and think” with meditative music as a backdrop.

National Recognition for Rick Russo College Counsellor Mr Rick Russo has been awarded the National Touchstone Award for Inclusive Community in recognition of his work with students and the whole St Pius X College community.

Mr Russo has had more than 20 years’ experience as College Counsellor and has been a driving force behind MindMatters, the student wellbeing program, embedded in many programs at the College and continually evolving to meet the contemporary needs of students.

Congratulations to Mr Russo on this well-deserved recognition of the outstanding work he has pioneered to build an inclusive, connected school community that promotes happiness and wellbeing.

COMMUNITY

Australia Day HonoursCongratulations to Mr Phil Glendenning, Director of the Edmund Rice Centre (ERC) and President of the Refugee Council of Australia, on being made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM). Mr Glendenning has been an inspirational speaker at the College.

The College welcomed back the Class of 1955–56, an extremely talented and loyal group, for their 60 year school reunion. They were proudly shown around the College, which has changed so much since the time they were here.

The Class of 1986 also turned out in numbers for their 30 year reunion.

Welcome back!

St Pius X P&F AssociationThe St Pius X College Parents & Friends Association consist of a group of volunteer parents who work together, and with the wider College community, to organise and facilitate events throughout the year.

All P&F events provide social occasions where parents can meet and catchup. Some of our events raise funds to further enhance students’ learning, by providing resources and experiences to the boys and the College.

Our President, Paul Hunt, a St Pius X Old Boy himself, believes firmly in our role to support the College by providing a liaison and occasional counsel on behalf of parents. We also give carefully considered and targeted financial support to appropriate projects.

The P&F Committee believes a happy group of parents and a strong College will maximise the benefit for our boys.

Please make contact with our Committee Secretary, Sarah Gillard, at secretary@pandf.spx.nsw.edu.au if you are interested in getting involved.

ValeThe College was saddened to hear of the passing of members of our College community. We extend our condolences to their families and friends. Mr Phil Brady (SPX 1960)Mr Brady was in the College 1st XV in 1960 and was often seen supporting the College at Rugby games and Old Boys functions.

Mr Evan Brett (SPX 1963)Mr Brett lived in Canberra and was active in St Vincent de Paul.

Mrs Anne McElvogueMrs McElvogue was a longstanding member and supporter of the College. Her husband Brian (deceased) was an Old Boy (and Life Member of Brothers Rugby Club), as were her sons James (SPX 1988), Tom (SPX 1984) and Sean (SPX 1981). James’ sons Charles is in Year 9 and Tom is in Year 5.

Mr Phil Ryan (CBHS 1942) Mr Ryan was a first-day student when the College opened in 1937. He was most recently at the College with his grandson, David Mooney (Year 8), at the Fathers’ Day Breakfast in September. Mr Ryan’s sons, Gerard Ryan (SPX 1984), Damian Ryan (SPX 1987), Bernard Ryan (SPX 1988) and Richard Ryan (SPX 1992), also attended the College.

May they rest in peace.

DATES for your diary2017 P&F Social Events

24 March

Cocktail Party A fun night at Oxford Falls, especially for new parents.

12 May Mothers’ Day Liturgy & Muffins

12 AugustTrivia Night

Annual fundraiser for the College Clubs: Football, Basketball, Rugby, Cricket and Performing Arts.

1 SeptemberFathers’ Day Breakfast

6 November P&F AGM

St Pius X College Chatswood 35 Anderson Street Chatswood NSW 2067 • Ph: (02) 9411 4733 • Fax: (02) 9413 1860 • Email: admin@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au • Web: www.spx.nsw.edu.au

16 • PIUS IN PROFILE

The College community is warmly invited to attend the celebrations in commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the College.

28–30 March Boy OverboardSt Pius X College drama production with Mercy Catholic College

The Sarto Centre, 7 pm

www.trybooking.com/241016

2 May Founder’s Day and 80th Anniversary Mass at Oxford FallsThe College is honoured that Mass will be celebrated by the Most Reverend Peter Comensoli, Bishop of Broken Bay. Families and Old Boys are invited to attend this special whole College Mass in celebration of our Founder, Blessed Edmund Rice, and the 80th Anniversary of the College.

18 May A Musical Celebration – A Night Full of StarsThe Concourse, Chatswood, 7 pm

Showcasing the extraordinary musical talents of our students – present and past – and their dedicated Ensemble Directors, A Night Full of Stars will be an unforgettable tribute to the College’s history and its outstanding music program over the last 80 years.

1 September Old Boys Association 80th Anniversary Dinner A memorable night is being planned by the Old Boys Association to commemorate the College’s 80th Anniversary. Dinner at Oxford Falls will follow Mass and a College Tour.

80th Anniversary Celebrations