Dear Members of the Trinity Family,

Welcome to the new academic year - and thank you for your continued partnership. In a particular way I welcome all of our new families to the College - whether you have your first child in Year 7 or your child is joining us in another year level. You are most welcome.

Welcome to our New Year 7 Students

On 4 February 130 excited - and no doubt nervous - Year 7 students commenced their time at the College. In particular, I thank Mrs Lisa Yopp, Leader of Year 7, and our senior students for supporting the transition of our newest community members.

As is tradition, I am hosting lunches with each Year 7 Tutor Group. This is an informal opportunity for me to welcome and connect with our Year 7 students. The second of five lunches will occur later this week.

Welcome to our New Staff

• Ms Magda Klimek - Food Technology / TAS Teacher
• Mr Matt Parrish - PDHPE & RE Teacher
• Mr Tom Weir - English Teacher (Job Share with Ms Elizabeth Watson)
• Mr Michael Lill - Leader of Learning English
• Mr Andrew McCalman - Science Teacher (Term 1 Replacing Mrs Sheila Martineau)
• Mr Tory Puglisi - HSIE / RE Teacher (Term 1 Replacing Mrs Vicki Evans)
• Miss Sarah Venn - Learning Support Teacher
• Ms Jane Lockwood (Canteen Assistant)
• Ms Anna Pucci (Canteen & Hospitality Assistant)

Staff Appointments in 2025

As we commence a new year I offer this full list of Leadership appointments for your reference.

Existing parents would be aware that we pride ourselves here at Trinity on building productive partnerships between home and the College. As in all things, from time to time issues will arise. To contact any member of staff, please phone the College office on 6627 6600 and the message will be forwarded on.

The following outlines common contacts for students and parents, based on the question and/or concern being raised. It is important all communication between the College and parents/carers is respectful and reflects our shared commitment to the students in our care.

HSC High Achievers’ Assembly

On Friday 7 February we acknowledged and congratulated our High Achievers from the 2024 HSC class. I congratulate each of our ‘High Achievers’ as I know the level of hard work and dedication required to achieve a Band 6 and / or an ATAR over 90. Ms Unwin’s Lantern article will provide further information about the achievements of the HSC class of 2024. I thank all those who helped with the organisation of this wonderful Assembly. In particular I thank the staff from the Office of Student Learning and the ICT Departments for their assistance with the Assembly, particularly the filming of the Dux’s Address. 

Academic Excellence & Academic Growth Awards Ceremony

Last Friday, 21 February, we held two academic assemblies to acknowledge our current Year 8-11 students who achieved outstanding results and/or growth in their Semester 2, 2024, reports. The College is proud to expand the suite of awards it bestows upon students by introducing the Academic Growth Awards. These awards recognise those students who have demonstrated significant academic growth throughout their subjects and/or PAT tests. We look forward to this tradition continuing. 

SCU Traffic Management Plan

I am seeking the support of students and parents/carers in observing this plan. This is designed with the safety of all in mind. 

Child Safeguarding

The College, like all child-safe organisations, is investing significant time and resources into the implementation of the Child Safe Standards. Our website contains our Statement of Commitment and further policies and procedures that inform our approach to this important work.

To commence the year, all staff completed the following online modules, plus attended a staff compliance induction session on our most recent staff day: Child Safety in NSW, Child Safety Fundamentals, Student Duty of Care Fundamentals, Student Duty of Care for Educators, Child Safety Culture, Child Safety Code of Conduct. The 2025 Child Safeguarding Officers at Trinity include: the Principal, Assistant Principals and College Counsellors.

Uniform & Presentation

I ask that all students returning to the College in 2025 present in accordance with the College uniform and grooming policy, with particular attention being paid to hairstyles (neat and appropriate) and jewellery (no facial piercings). The College’s uniform policy can be found on the College website. It is vital that we maintain high standards in all areas of College life, including uniform and presentation.

Student Enrolments

Applications for 2026 are now being accepted and will be processed as per the following timeline: 

All enrolment enquiries are best directed to our Enrolments Officer via email - enrolments@trinitylismore.nsw.edu.au - or phone: 02) 6627 6647. Applications can be made through our College website.

Power Outage in Week 2

I appreciate that many parents were frustrated with the power outage that impacted the campus a fortnight ago - I was too. I can assure you that we are working with Southern Cross University to review our procedures. In my letter to families I outlined the circumstances we faced at the time of the decision, knowing that students were already on some buses from surrounding towns and villages to the north and south. Thank you for your understanding. I hope to communicate with parents/carers our procedure in general terms so that there is an awareness of how we will respond in the event of a significant disruption overnight.

2025 Academic Year Dates for Students / Families

Lantern Distribution in Term 1

The next edition of the Lantern will be distributed during Week 7.

Thank you for your ongoing support of the College. May Venerable Nano Nagle, St Marcellin Champagnat and Mary our Good Mother continue to watch over our Trinity community.

Jesse Smith

It has been a great start to our 2025 school year, already we have had the opportunity to accolade students for their efforts last year with the HSC High Achievers Assembly during week 1 and the Semester 2 Academic Award assemblies last friday. It was fantastic to have parents onsite to share these events. In addition to these celebrations of student success, there has already been opportunities for students to take advantage of what Trinity has to offer with a variety of sport and extracurricular activities being undertaken.

Students are encouraged to engage in all aspects of College life, from classroom application through to that vast array of sporting and extra curricular offerings. The first step and most crucial element that students require to be able to get the most out of what Trinity has to offer is simply being here. Student attendance patterns so far this year have been good, with the majority of students sitting at close to 100% attendance thus far. Every day presents new opportunities for students to engage, learn and connect.  It is the culmination of each moment that determines the end result.

Student Uniform

During Monday’s Assembly this week there were some specific clarifications delivered to students around College uniform requirements.  Currently,  there appears to be a large number of students finding it difficult to meet the requirements in regards to College Sport Shorts. Please refer to the below image which has the requirements clearly highlighted. It would be greatly appreciated if parents could check that their child’s current shorts fall within these guidelines.

Further clarification was also provided regarding appropriate types of Jewellery, please refer to the College uniform guidelines link here. Specific mention was made in relation to earrings with large gemstones or pearls falling outside these requirements.

Tony Flood

Dear Trinity families,

Welcome to the 2025 school year.  This Jubilee Year promises to be one of hope and compassion and for students, a year full of opportunities in the Mission and Youth Ministry areas.

Year 7 Connect Day & Parent Evening  

On Wednesday 12 February, Year 7 spent the day connecting with each other, while learning about the College and Parish communities. Leader of Year 7 Mrs Yopp and her team of Year 7 Tutors facilitated a fun morning of activities focussing on belonging and getting to know others in classes and House groups. The afternoon was spent at St Carthage's Cathedral learning about Trinity’s history as part of the local parish and sharing in a special liturgy together. That same evening, we welcomed parents of new students to the College by meeting new families at afternoon tea followed by an information Q & A session.  It was wonderful to see so many families wanting to be part of this event.

Commencement Mass

Friday 14 February was the first time the entire College gathered together to celebrate Mass. Fr Bing Monteguado led us in a special celebration full of symbolism while inspiring us to be people of hope in this special Jubilee year. At the beginning of Mass, the name of each student and staff member was placed in our College heart as a symbol of belonging to our community while at the same time we asked Mary to watch over us for the next twelve months. Marcellin Champagnat, founder of the Marist Brothers, used to do this at the Hermitage in France and we continue this tradition to this day signifying each person's special part in our Trinity family.  Special thanks to our choir, musicians, student leaders, readers and all students and staff for making this significant day so memorable.

This Term our Year 11, 12 and 7 students have the opportunity to be part of the Diocesan Youth Ministry  programs Transitus and LEAD.  Our College Youth Ministry Coordinator Mrs O’Reilly has been emailing Expression of Interests for these events. Students are reminded to read their emails so they do not miss out on these opportunities as numbers for each event are limited.  For Year 7 students, this is a wonderful way to continue the youth ministry journey commenced in primary schools. Please contact Ms O’Reilly with any questions regarding these events.

Trinity Lenten Appeal - We are Uniting Against Poverty as part of project Compassion

Next Wednesday 5 March marks Ash Wednesday and the commencement of the Season of Lent. Like many Catholic schools around the country, Trinity commits to raise monies for Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion during Lent. Part of preparing for Easter in the six weeks of Lent, is examining our relationships, seeking forgiveness, fasting and almsgiving. As a Catholic community committed to serving others, may we find it in our hearts to support Project Compassion this year and raise some much needed funds for our brothers and sisters in our global family.  Please use this QR code to link directly to Trinity’s Project Compassion fundraising page.

 Term 1 Mission Events

• Ash Wednesday Liturgy - 5 March
• Uncle Gilbert Laurie shares Bundjalung stories from the College Mural - 14th March
• LEAD youth ministry - 20 March
• Transitus youth ministry- 25 March
• Easter Liturgy - 7 April
• Year 12 Retreat commences 8-11 April

Annette White - Director of Mission

Dear Members of the Trinity Community,

Welcome to learning and teaching for 2025.  The start of the year has been positive with students quickly settling into new classes and routines. The initiative to have no devices for the first few weeks in Year 7 and 8 has supported students to connect with teachers and peers as well as set up positive learning habits and class bookwork. All students will need to maintain their book work throughout the year as this continues to be a focus of the College.

The past few weeks have seen wonderful opportunities to celebrate learning success and growth with the High Achievers HSC Assembly as well as the Semester 2 Academic Assemblies. Student Growth awards were included in this celebration as we strive to acknowledge personal best from every student.

Year 12 High Achievers Assembly

On 7 February the College acknowledged and celebrated the Year 12 High Achievers from 2024. We congratulate all of our Year 12 students from 2024 on their HSC completion and achievements. We wish them all the very best for the future.

The following is the speech from the college DUX, George Mitchell:

Good morning Mr Smith, staff, students, invited guests, uninvited guests and high achieving students from the graduating class of 2024.

I would like to start by congratulating those seated on stage behind me. This talented and hardworking group have all achieved great things in the HSC, a band 6 or a high atar is no small feat and each of you guys have worked tirelessly to achieve such things. The cohort was also a pretty fun bunch to be around. I came to trinity in week 8, term 3 of Year 10 and I was straight away welcomed with open arms. My couple of years at Trinity were the most fun I have ever had at school. Events such as the chants, excursions and sports carnivals were experiences I will always be grateful for and the friendships and general banter in and out of the classroom will hold a special place in my heart. To those who are here today and to everyone else from the TCCL class of 2024, thankyou for your comradery and congratulations for your accolades and achievements. Can we please hear it one more time for the class of 2024.

A preacher once told me that to get better as a preacher, you have to listen to preaching. So to write this speech I listened to speeches. Trinity’s Dux of 2022, Felix Weakley made comments such as “hard work pays off, sort out your social life and to take advantage of the resources at Trinity”. Last year’s Dux Hannah Cappe told us to “learn about ourselves, find out what works for us and find our drive”. So hearing the points from their speeches and taking into account my own experience of the HSC, I honed in on one point I would like to present to you today. My “nugget of truth” If you’re lucky enough to be in Ms O’leary’s english class. My one point is also one word, I thought it would be easiest to remember for those in the room like myself who have trouble with memorising. My one word is Balance.

12 days before the first English paper I went on a camping trip with a couple of mates. Now before you decide to judge this very well thought out decision, this trip didn’t come with the usual lollygagging and shenanigans a camp of 17 and 18 year olds would usually entail. Whilst in part the point of this trip was to enjoy the fleeting holiday we could until the HSC period, it was also to spend hours in a library not far from the campsite tackling English papers and attempting the occasional math problem. A sabbatical of some sort if you will. Our days would consist of a morning swim, a few timed practice essays at the library, catching fish off of the breakwall at night and playing golf one afternoon where a certain left handed individual decided to take his anger out on a tree, snapping the hired club and proceeding to subtly toss said club into a nearby pond.

Now why bring up this story? Why not give proper insights and tips to conquer exams and breeze through the HSC? Why spend time giving an anecdote rather than inspiration or advice?

I bring back the word balance. For me this trip was exactly what I needed before an extended exam period. The 40 or 80 minute blocks of writing were complimented nicely with a meat pie and a wander around. Looking back to it, the mix between study and leisure formed a satisfying equilibrium, and if Mrs Parker's Year 12s are cringing right now I know I’m doing my job right.

To year 11 and 12 and any other students here, balance is integral in your approach to your high schooling life, especially your studies. Throughout my time in high school studying wasn’t something I often struggled with. I don’t say that to boast or flex, instead I want to acknowledge that study can vary between students, and for the most part I was lucky enough to not mind sitting down and writing. At times I did find it hard to work my way through one of Mr Perry’s controversial physics problems or that pesky 5 marker in religion that I could only ever muster a 3 or 4 on. When faced with these roadblocks I would find it useful to take breaks, whether that be a few (sometimes too many) instagram reels, going to the gym for a couple of hours or any other activities that would take my mind off of school. When I returned to my desk at home or in the library I focused solely on the work I set myself. If I was to tell year 11 George how to study I would say, do what works for you, whatever (Click)flips the switch into study mode or slowly helps you crescendo into your work. What worked for me was balancing recreation with study, what worked for me was balancing focused math lessons with only slightly chaotic geography lessons, what worked for me won’t be what works for you. If you want to find out what works for you my first suggestion would be to find your balance.

Like life, high school will have many ups and downs and it will have its ebbs and flows. The goal should be to find the right mixture of each:

• Mix laughter with crying
• Blend struggle with triumph
• Weave understanding into confusion
• incorporate gruelling study sessions with relaxing breaks
• Fuse your setbacks with growth

And most importantly, appreciate the time you have had and the time you have left. You may not have to enjoy it because there will be times where you will not, but please try to appreciate Trinity for the blessing it is. Keep in mind that not everyone gets to go to Trinity and not everyone gets to do the HSC.

All of these things I have listed are inevitable and will happen at some point during your time as a senior, so if I can leave you all here with one thing today, I hope you can remember the word balance.

Thank You again to my class for a great couple of years. Thank You to my tutor teachers for making mornings more fun. Thank You to my class teachers who put up with me for the past two years, the work you all put in doesn’t go unnoticed and the achievements of our year are as much ours as they are yours. Thank You to my parents for challenging and supporting me through this journey, to my little sister for being there for me when I needed it most and lastly to my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

I’ll leave you this morning with a bible verse. Philippians 4:13 - “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

2024 Distinguished Achievers

Top ATAR Results

 College DUX

 

Year 7 - 10 Semester 2 2024 Academic Assembly

On 21 February we celebrated the high achievers from Semester 2 2024. Congratulations to the following students on their outstanding efforts.

Year 7 Semester 2 2024

Year 8 Semester 2 2024

 Year 9 Semester 2 2024

Year 10 Semester 2 2024

Student Growth Awards

NAPLAN

All Year 7 and 9 students will be participating in NAPLAN Writing, Reading, Conventions of language, Numeracy tests from Wednesday 12 March to Monday 24 March.

NAPLAN tests are just one part of our school learning assessment program and questions are primarily based on knowledge, understanding and skills gained from the prior year of schooling.

Students and parents can access the public demonstration site to familiarise themselves with NAPLAN and the types of questions and tools available. Excessive preparation for NAPLAN is not required nor recommended.

Further information about NAPLAN is available on the NESA Website

In light of the College’s participation in this testing, I would like to emphasise the following points:

• Student performance in these online tests will not be reported upon by the College;
• Student attendance on these days is compulsory.

What Students need to bring:

Fully charged laptop A Pencil Earphones - AUX Jack Mouse - USB (if they are not confident with a computer trackpad)

Year 7 Parent/Student/Teacher Interviews

On 17 March Year 7 parents will have the opportunity to meet with their student’s teachers at Parent, Student, Teacher Interviews. These interviews are an important opportunity for students and their parents/caregivers to engage with teachers and receive valuable insights into their learning progress.

When: Monday 17th March 2024

Time: 3:40pm to 7:00pm

Where: R Block on Level 3 (via main entrance next to reception, upstairs).

Bookings: Bookings can be made through the Parent Portal from Monday 3 March.

2025 Elevate Plan

In 2025, all students will continue participating in Elevate Education Presentations and Workshops as part of the Lifelong Learner Study Skills Program.

Year 7: Students will be introduced to fundamental skills for Stage 4 in the Study Skills Kick Start workshop. This includes dynamic reading, note-taking, conceptual learning, and independent learning skills.

Year 8: The focus will shift to working consistently and managing larger tasks in the Junior Time Management workshop. Key skills include developing a study routine, working smart, handling assignments and exams, and overcoming procrastination.

Year 9: Students will learn simple techniques and strategies to enhance their memorisation and recall abilities in the Memory Mnemonics workshop.

Year 10:

• The Study Sensei workshop will guide students in breaking down study techniques for effective learning. Skills covered include working consistently, advanced note-taking, conceptual learning, and standing out in assessments.
• The Time Management workshop will help students find time to complete work effectively. It focuses on developing a study routine, working smart, forming study groups, and overcoming procrastination.

Year 11:

• The Student Elevation workshop will introduce a range of skills to help students stay motivated throughout the year. It focuses on belief, goal setting, and short-term planning.
• Students will also focus on critical exam skills and preparation in the Ace Your Exams This includes effective study techniques, fixing mistakes, allocating time, and mastering exam room techniques.

Year 12:

• The Time Management workshop will support students in balancing their workload effectively. It covers study routines, working smart, forming study groups, and managing procrastination.
• Students will also work through a clear road map for the final months of Year 12 in the Finishing Line workshop, which focuses on managing pressure and stress. Practical strategies include revisiting goals, maintaining a consistent work rate, stress management, and final exam preparation tips.

We wish all students and families well for the remainder of Term 1.

Alison Unwin - Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching

Tracy Benfield - Director of Learning

Amy Pascoe - Director of Teaching Excellence

Year 7 have had quite a fast and furious start to 2025 here at Trinity. Their first day on Tuesday 4th February saw a sea of fresh faces (mostly) eager to make a start to their secondary school journey. They were guided by their Year 12 House Buddies for some general familiarisation of their timetable and class rooms.  The Year 12’s enjoyed running a few activities with their small groups and getting to know the newest members of their House.

Wednesday of Week 2 saw the cohort spending time within their Tutor Group, their Base Class and as a general cohort on our Year 7 Connect Day. We finished at the Cathedral in the afternoon where Mrs White and Mrs O’Reilly explained a little about St Carthage’s Cathedral, and who our Houses are named after.  We practiced the order and procession in readiness for Commencement Mass on Friday morning. Both teachers were full of praise for the respect and co-operation displayed by our students.

Commencement Mass each year is quite a special occasion - Year 7 are formally welcomed into the Trinity Family. The names of every student and staff member are placed into our College Heart to be displayed at the College, and at formal celebrations, to replicate the action of St Marcellin Champagnat, one of our Founders. Year 7 processed in behind their House Captains, who carried the House Flag, and the scroll of House Members to be placed in the Heart. Again, feedback from staff regarding behaviour and respect was very positive. Well done Year 7!

This week saw students being onboarded to our College Learning Platform - Lighthouse, and Locker distribution happening. Hopefully bags are a little lighter with most books being kept in the locker unless they are needed at home. Great place for a College hat too - unless it’s the new fashion accessory for the weekend.

Each Tutor Group will be invited to a College hosted lunch with our Principal, Mr Smith. Tutors and House Captains are also invited. It is a wonderful opportunity to share a delicious meal together, enjoy making connections with the group and the first instance in which they can ‘chat’ informally with their Principal. 7 Cannane / Carthage were first off the rank today - and not much was left on their plates. Calamari, fish and chips; salad rolls, petite quiches and a wonderful fruit platter were on offer. They were very good at packing up and cleaning the space - there must be a lot of practice happening at home :)

Mrs Lisa Yopp - Leader of Year 7

Year 12 Investigating Science Excursion

Today (10/2/25) our class went out to Bangalow to learn about and explore bush medicine used by First Nation Peoples in the Bundjalung nation. Delta Kay, a First Nations Elder, shared her knowledge surrounding medicinal native plants in the Bundjalung nation, traditional methods used to prepare and utilise the plants and conservation methods used by First Nations Peoples to successfully use and regenerate the environment. The excursion was inspiring and formed an integral part for informative knowledge for our next assessment task.

Mrs Vanessa McKenzie - Science Teacher

Two Year 12 Hospitality classes recently assisted in the catering for our High Achievers Academic Assembly on Friday 7 February. One class began preparations the previous day applying their "Mise en place" skills. The next class picked up the baton and completed preparing appetiser's and sandwiches. Students assisted Mrs Cox in the setup for the function and then packed down and cleaned up in the training centre kitchen. Students in Year 12 are commencing a new unit on Interacting with Customers and will be continuing some small catering opportunities and simulations to apply their knowledge in meeting customer needs and communication skills this Term.

Mrs K Woods | Teacher TAS| VET

Casino Hospital is hosting an Open Day Saturday 15^th March 2025, and they would like to invite any interested Trinity students and family along. Please see the flyer for details.

Miss Pauline Leeson - Careers Adviser and Teacher Librarian 

Casino Hospital Open Day flyer

Casino Hospital Open Day flyer 647.61 KB