Students at three secondary schools in the Diocese recently took advantage of extra-curricular opportunities, including interstate and overseas trips.
Fifty Year 10 students from Mackillop Catholic College in Warnervale travelled to the Gold Coast for the Commonwealth Games, taking in the Men’s Hockey, Athletics, Women’s Rugby and the Marathon. The group also had a surfing lesson at Coolangatta beach.
Mr Steve Todd, the Principal, received a glowing letter from a couple who stayed in the same tourist park as the Mackillop students. “It was so refreshing to observe their fun spirits yet respectful behaviour,” said the couple. “Congratulations to the teachers and thank you for restoring our confidence in this next generation!”
Meanwhile, keen soccer players from St Leo’s Catholic College Wahroonga participated in a twelve-day tour of the UK, visiting football clubs and playing games against English teams.
Teacher and coach Nathan Smith said that he noticed students further develop their confidence and skills on the match pitch, and he was most struck by the students’ team work, pride in their jersey, and passion for the sport.
Twenty-four boys from St Paul’s Catholic College Manly travelled to the UK as part of their European tour, which also took in Italy.
The students visited a restaurant in England called the Clink which is staffed by guests of Her Majesty’s Prison Service learning the ropes of working in hospitality. They also laid a wreath at a commemorative service held for local Manly brothers, Angus and Archie McPherson, who were killed in the First World War.
“Lots of first experiences, loads of laughs, new friendships forged and memories made,” said Diana Kalac, who organised the tour. “The boys have returned tired and excited, with lots of stories to tell and a sense of adventure.”