All Staff Edition, Week 7, Term 3, 2025
Echoes of Divine Fatherhood
Father's Day, often marked by gatherings and expressions of gratitude with gifts from school stalls and child-made breaky in bed, offers a profound opportunity for spiritual reflection within our Catholic tradition. Beyond the commercial celebrations, it invites us to consider the sacred role of fatherhood, drawing our gaze towards the ultimate Father, God Himself, and to the earthly figures who, in various ways, mirror His divine love and providence.
The very concept of God as Father is central to our faith. It speaks of a relationship of deep love, unwavering guidance, and boundless mercy. As children of God, we are invited into an intimate relationship with the One who knows us perfectly, provides for our needs, and calls us to holiness. Earthly fathers, in their best expressions, become living icons of this divine paternity. They are called to protect, to instruct, to nurture, and to lead their families in faith, hope, and love. This is a demanding, yet infinitely rewarding, vocation.
Consider the quiet strength and unwavering dedication of Saint Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. He was a man of integrity, obedience, and profound faith, who selflessly embraced his role as protector and provider for the Holy Family. Joseph's fatherhood was not defined by biological ties, but by his loving presence, his steadfast commitment, and his willingness to sacrifice for the well-being of those entrusted to his care. He teaches us that true fatherhood is less about power or status and more about humble service, less about affirmations and more about consistent, loving action.
In a world that often struggles with the true meaning of masculinity and fatherhood, the Catholic understanding of fatherhood offers a counter-cultural vision. It emphasises responsibility, unconditional love, vulnerability, self-giving, and the cultivation of virtue. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, urges fathers, "And fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4).
This scripture calls fathers (and mothers alike) to be pillars of moral strength, guiding their children not just by word, but by the compelling example of a life lived in accordance with God's will. They are to be the first catechists, imparting the faith through daily living, prayer, participation in the sacraments, and service.
As we honour fathers on this special day, we are invited to reflect:
How can we better appreciate and emulate the virtues of true fatherhood—both human and divine—in our own lives?
May we each strive to create environments of love, security, and spiritual growth, echoing the heart of our Heavenly Father in all we do.
Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong joins the Catholic education sector in remembering Greg Whitby, who sadly passed away over the weekend.
For close to 50 years—including a period as Director of Schools in the Diocese of Wollongong (1999 to 2006)—Greg devoted his life to Catholic education. He left a profound impact on those he worked alongside and will be remembered as a leader committed to innovation, inclusion, and the faith, learning, and wellbeing of the communities he served.
The Mass of Christian Burial for Greg will be celebrated by Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta, on Monday 8 September 2025 at 10.00 am.
The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of respect and the high regard in which Greg is held. As you can appreciate, the funeral is expected to be very well attended. Please be mindful that there are many family members and close friends who would like to pay their respects, and for that reason, there is the opportunity for those who wish to pay their respects to join via a livestream of the service at https://www.youtube.com/@
Please keep Greg and his family in your prayers during this very challenging time.
Eternal rest grant unto Greg, O Lord. May perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Bishop Vincent Long of the Diocese of Parramatta has shared a moving tribute to Greg in Catholic Outlook.
Photo credit: Catholic Outlook
On behalf of the Executive Director of Schools, I wish to announce the following:
Following a recruitment and discernment process, I am pleased to announce that Karen Holland has been appointed to the substantive position of Assistant Principal at Ss Peter and Paul Catholic Parish Primary School, Kiama. As Karen is currently performing the position of Acting Assistant Principal, she will commence in the role immediately.
Karen has worked as part of the leadership team at Ss Peter and Paul since 2018, having performed the roles of Acting Assistant Principal (August 2023 – current), and Middle Leader and Instructional Coach (2018 – August 2023).
Karen is currently studying a Master of Educational Leadership (ACU) and has successfully acquired qualifications, including a Graduate Certificate of Educational Leadership (ACU), a Bachelor of Education (Southern Cross University), a Bachelor of Teaching (UOW), and a Certificate of Religious Education.
Please join me in congratulating Karen on her appointment to this position.
Lillian Del Giudice has relinquished the Assistant Principal position at Mary Immaculate Catholic Parish Primary School, Eagle Vale. I extend my sincere gratitude for her contributions made to the Diocese of Wollongong and to the community of Mary Immaculate.
The substantive Assistant Principal role will be advertised shortly, with a commencement date of January 2026.
Amanda Wilson, Principal at St Joseph's Catholic High School, Albion Park, will be taking a period of extended leave.
During this time, Christopher Shelton will perform the role of Acting Principal, and Cameron Dribbus will perform the role of Acting Assistant Principal.
Catherine DuBois, Religious Education Coordinator at St Paul’s Catholic Primary School, Moss Vale, will be taking parental leave from 15 September 2025 to 24 July 2026. Following a recruitment process, Tania Calla-Hunstone is the successful applicant for the position of Acting Religious Education Coordinator at St Paul’s, Moss Vale, during Catherine’s leave.
Tania has been teaching and leading in Catholic education since 2011. She has previously held the position of Religious Education Coordinator and currently holds the position of Middle Leader 1 at St Paul’s, Moss Vale. Tania holds a Bachelor of Teaching (Religious Education included) with Australian Catholic University.
Tania is a member of the Corpus Christi Parish, Bowral.
Natasha O’Donoghue
Director – People and Culture
Temporary and permanent primary teaching positions are currently advertised across a number of CEDoW schools.
Catholic Education Office
Director ICLT
Contact Paul Phillips at Hays Executive to discuss this opportunity.
Phone: +61 (02) 8226 9699
Email: paul.phillips@hays.com.au
Acting Director – Improvement, Learning and Wellbeing
Payroll Officer
Primary
St Paul’s Catholic Parish Primary School, Albion Park
Classroom Teacher
Physical Education Teacher (0.6 F.T.E)
St Paul’s Catholic Parish Primary School, Camden
Classroom Teacher (F.T.E. 0.5)
School Support Officer – Classroom (Several Positions)
Mary Immaculate Catholic Parish Primary School, Eagle Vale
Assistant Principal
Holy Cross Catholic Parish Primary School, Helensburgh
Creative Arts Teacher (0.2 F.T.E)
Ss Peter and Paul Catholic Parish Primary, Kiama
Acting Religious Education Coordinator (Primary)
St Paul’s Catholic Parish Primary School, Moss Vale
School Support Officer – Classroom (30 hours per fortnight)
St Thomas More Catholic Parish Primary School, Ruse
School Support Officer – Student Wellbeing Officer (20hours per fortnight)
Classroom Teacher
St Therese Catholic Parish Primary School, West Wollongong
Diverse Learning Support Teacher
Secondary
St Joseph’s Catholic High School, Albion Park
Science/Religious Education Teacher
Mathematics Teacher
Acting Middle Leader (2pt) – Pastoral and Learning Support
Holy Spirit College, Bellambi
School Support Officer – Indentured Casual Administration & Classroom Support (65 hours per fortnight)
Trainee Administration Assistant
Magdalene Catholic College, Narellan
Religious Education Coordinator – (Re-advertised)
St John the Evangelist Catholic High School, Nowra
PD/H/PE Teacher
John Therry Catholic College, Rosemeadow
TAS Teacher
Mount Carmel Catholic College, Varroville
English Teacher
Religious Education/Visual Arts Teacher
Music Teacher (F.T.E. 0.6)
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Year 12 Student Mass
This week, Year 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families from across our Diocesan secondary schools gathered to celebrate their graduation with Bishop Brian and Peter Hill.
Throughout the culturally rich celebration, Bishop Brian spoke about the opportunity to be Bearers of Christ’s Love. He highlighted the access that our education gives us to lift others up, to speak truth with courage and to remember and honour your culture, your Elders and your connection to Country as you walk through life with humility and strength.
After the success of our inaugural event in 2024, this year we celebrated the graduation of 43 students. The Graduation Mass reflects our commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, as articulated in Lighting The Way, as well as aligning to one of the proposed improvement measures in the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement 2025-2034: “By 2031, increase the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (age 20-24) attaining Year 12 or equivalent qualification to 96 per cent.”
We congratulate all our graduates and their families on this milestone achievement.
Secondary Student Round Table
A reminder to RSVP to the Student Round Table event by Friday 5 September 2025. This event will be an inspiring and formative experience for students to connect, collaborate and champion respectful relationships within their schools.
Please contact Liam Nicholls and Jenn Sharp with any questions: respectfulrelationships@dow.catholic.edu.au.
CEDoW Step into Teaching Scholarship Program – Applications Closing Soon
Apply by Friday 19 September 2025.
Schools are asked to share the following opportunities with students and include the information in parent/carer communications.
All Year 12 students are invited to apply for one of the following scholarships:
- Step into Teaching Scholarship Program
- Step into Teaching Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarship Program
To learn more, students should speak with their TAPs Coordinator or visit the Catholic Education Office website here.
Free Webinar – Unlocking Your Child’s Potential
The Council of Catholic School Parents have partnered with Beyond to help parents and carers nurture their children’s unique strengths and talents. As part of this partnership, a free webinar has been organised for parents and carers.
Prepared for parents of Years 3–6 primary school, the webinar empowers parents to recognise and nurture their child’s unique strengths and talents, guiding them toward greater confidence, motivation, and resilience.
Nurturing Strengths – Primary Parent Webinar
Date: Wednesday 10 September 2025
Time: 12.30 pm – 1.15 pm
Schools are to promote this opportunity to parents through their communications channels.
CatholicCare Counsellors – Staff Development Day
A message from CatholicCare, Wollongong
CatholicCare will be hosting our annual Staff Development Day on Wednesday 24 September 2025. All school counsellors rostered to work on this day will be attending the event, and therefore, there will be no counsellor coverage in schools on that date. We appreciate your understanding and support, and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. Contact: Tina Acevska, Manager, School, Student and Family Program (SSFP), on mobile: 0419 462 621.
NESA News
Strengthening Your eTAMS Security
NESA will introduce a new, secure way to sign in to eTAMS in October, called NESA Identity (NESA ID). The changes will include 2-step verification and a stronger password policy to protect your account.
From October 2025, you will:
- Sign in to eTAMS with your email address instead of your 6-digit NESA account number.
- Reset your password according to the new policy and set up 2-step verification.
Prepare for the change:
- Sign in to eTAMS using your current credentials.
- Make sure your mobile number is up to date.
- Check the email listed in the ‘NESA ID email address’ field – this will become your username in October.
- Verify the email listed in the ‘Communications email address’ field.
- Confirm any changes.
Key points:
- NESA recommends using a personal email as your NESA ID. Using a work email may require extra steps to set up your NESA ID.
- If you are a principal, accreditation supervisor, principal delegate, or hold a role receiving frequent or sensitive communications, use a work email for your communications email address.
- NESA will notify you before the changes take effect, with clear step-by-step instructions.
Look Out for HSC Showcase Nominations
HSC students across NSW will find out if they’re nominated for an HSC Showcase over the next three months, starting with CALLBACK and OnSTAGE performances next week. Being nominated is a major achievement, recognising that a student’s work meets syllabus outcomes and HSC exam standards. The HSC Showcase Hub has all the information you need, including key dates for nominations, selections, and events.
Visit the HSC Showcase Hub here.
Positive Behaviours for Learning
Victorian Education has produced a series of Positive Classroom Management Strategies in ‘placemat’ format.
Each of the eight placemats presents evidence-informed practices that create safer, more purposeful learning environments supporting student learning, wellbeing and behaviour.
Classroom Behaviour Expectations and Rules
Help your students thrive! When students know exactly what is expected of them, they are more likely to demonstrate those behaviours. This placemat provides a simple, effective framework for creating and teaching classroom rules that are observable, measurable, positively stated, understandable, and always applicable (OMPUA). Give students the structure they need to succeed academically and behaviourally.
Classroom Procedures and Routines
Free up your students' working memory and reduce their cognitive load! Well-established routines help create predictability and structure, which is critical for the success of all students, especially those with diverse learning profiles. By clearly defining and teaching procedures, you can increase instructional time and create a positive, collaborative classroom culture.
Encouraging Expected Behaviour
Build stronger teacher-student relationships and promote student motivation. The placemat on encouraging expected behaviour provides a menu of techniques to acknowledge and reinforce positive behaviour. Learn how to use specific, positive feedback frequently and immediately, with a goal of a 4:1 ratio of positive to corrective feedback.
Discouraging Inappropriate Behaviour
Turn behaviour errors into teaching opportunities. This placemat provides a continuum of instructional responses to address inappropriate behaviour, just as you would with academic errors. The educative approach focuses on using brief, calm, and respectful corrective feedback to re-teach expectations and guide students toward the desired behaviour.
Active Supervision
Be present and purposeful in your classroom. Active supervision involves moving, scanning, and interacting with students to create opportunities for teaching, prompting, encouraging, and correcting behaviours. This simple yet powerful strategy reduces inappropriate behaviour, increases student engagement, and helps pre-empt escalations.
Opportunities to Respond (OTR)
Boost student engagement and academic outcomes! Opportunities to Respond (OTR) are instructional questions or cues designed to elicit a student response. By presenting varied OTRs at a brisk pace, you can increase on-task behaviour, make learning visible, and provide immediate feedback to students.
Activity Sequence and Choice
Empower your students and increase task completion. For students who can do a task but are reluctant to start, offering choices and strategically sequencing activities can be a game-changer. This placemat provides guidance on how to offer choices in tasks, materials, or even the order of work to build independence and create more equitable learning environments.
Task Difficulty
Ensure your work tasks are a perfect match for student skill levels. When work is too difficult, it can lead to disengagement and problem behaviour. Learn how to adjust task length, time, or response mode to ensure more students experience success and promote on-task behaviour and task completion.
CEDoW Library – Resource of the Week and Book Week
ACEN eBook
This week’s Sora eBook edition is Fiction and Non-Fiction.
Use the link here to explore eBook titles for primary, secondary, and staff through the Australian Catholic Education Network (ACEN). To sign in to Sora, select “ACEN” as your school.
ClickView Highlight
This week’s ClickView highlight is Mapping and Geography Skills. You can view it here.
Our schools celebrated 80 years of the Children’s Book Council of Australia during August. Please see here for some Book Week photos from around our Diocese.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with Jim Gallagher, Library Services Manager, at gallagherj01@dow.catholic.edu.au.
Men's Retreat
An opportunity for men to gather together to reflect on life and make sense through faith.
Register now through LMS.Location: A walking trail within the Diocese.
Date: Monday 17 November 2025 (Term 4, Week 6).
Faith Walks – see the flyer here.
A Day of Quiet and Contemplation – Listening to Life
The Staff Spiritual Formation team is pleased to announce an upcoming personal formation opportunity available to all staff within our system. The day, titled “Listening to Life,” is a Day of Quiet and Contemplation designed to offer staff a chance to pause, refuel and replenish the Spirit.
This one-day retreat will take place on Wednesday 26 November 2025 (Week 7, Term 4) in the beautiful grounds of The Hermitage in Mittagong. The program includes opportunities for reflection, prayer, conversation and silence, with a special emphasis on the practice of Christian Meditation.
All meals and facilitation for the day will be covered by the CEO, however, please note that release funding is not available. Due to the nature of this retreat, spaces are limited. Interested staff are encouraged to seek approval from their Principal, Assistant Director or Team Leader before registering on LMS. Registration closes on Friday 7 November 2025.
See the flyer here.
Who Am I? Scriptural Foundations for Our Search for Meaning and Purpose
Date: 19 September 2025
Venue: The Emmaus Centre, 4 Hyde Parade, Campbelltown
Are you a Secondary RE teacher, Pastoral Care, or Wellbeing leader seeking to deepen your understanding of meaning and purpose within a scriptural framework?
This professional learning day, Who Am I? Scriptural Foundations for Our Search for Meaning and Purpose is designed specifically for you.
We'll explore how foundational scriptures can empower you to:
- Enrich your Religious Education curriculum: Discover new ways to connect biblical narratives with students' personal journeys of self-discovery.
- Enhance pastoral care and wellbeing initiatives: Equip yourself with scripturally-grounded insights to guide students through life's big questions.
- Foster a deeper sense of identity and belonging in your students: Learn how to help students explore their unique purpose through the lens of faith.
Join us for a day of insightful discussion, practical strategies, and renewed inspiration as we collectively explore the profound question, "Who am I?" and its scriptural answers.
Enhancing Productivity with Apple Intelligence
Join Catholic Learning Online for an insightful online event, Enhancing Productivity with Apple Intelligence, on 9 September 2025 at 3:30 pm AEST.
This session will outline strategies to leverage Apple Intelligence, built into Apple operating systems, to enhance productivity in a safe and effective way.
Presented by Apple Professional Learning Specialists Ben Woods and Mark Woolley, the event will explore the core functions of Apple Intelligence, highlighting how they prioritise privacy while providing tools to boost professional productivity and communication. Access links for the online event will be emailed prior to the session.
K-6 Curriculum Support
The CEDoW K-6 Curriculum Support page contains:
- Important links to external and internal sites
- Professional learning
- Planning and programming support
- Assessment and reporting
- Professional reading
For any enquiries, please contact: learningk-12support@dow.catholic.edu.au.
Introduction to K-6 PDHPE and Science and Technology (via Zoom)
School instructional leaders and teachers are invited to engage in two professional learning opportunities: Introduction to the PDHPE syllabus and support materials (via Zoom), and Introduction to the Science and Technology syllabus and support materials (via Zoom), which will provide an introduction to each syllabus, NESA support material and CEDoW support material.
Registration for both professional learning opportunities can be accessed here.
PDHPE
 Date: Thursday 4 September 2025 Registered participants will receive a calendar invite with a Zoom link prior to the day. |
Science and Technology
 Date: Wednesday 17 September 2025 Registered participants will receive a calendar invite with a Zoom link prior to the day. |
Schools can also request in situ support in collaboration with the CEDoW - ILW Learning K-12 team in preparation for the implementation of Personal Development, Health and Physical Education and Science and Technology in 2025 and 2026.
To register your interest, please complete this form.
We’d love your feedback on Gateway News.
If you have suggestions or thoughts to share, let us know.
This newsletter (including any attachments) is for the intended recipient's use only. It contains information that may be confidential and/or protected by copyright. Any personal information in this newsletter must be handled in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). If you have received this newsletter by mistake, please notify us as soon as possible and permanently delete the newsletter. Any confidentiality is not waived or lost because this newsletter has been sent to you by mistake.