Delagram 2nd September 2025

Assistant Principal

Attendance Matters
As we approach the final weeks of Term 3 and emerge from the cold and challenging time of winter illness, getting up and getting to school each day becomes a little easier. I cannot emphasise enough the importance of making that effort. At the beginning of each year, we challenge our students to do one thing for themselves and that was to simply to show up, each day. Sadly, the attendance rates of many of our students has declined in recent months and we need to do better.  We all know that attending school consistently lays the foundation for academic success and personal growth. Students with excellent attendance records are 30% more likely to achieve higher grades compared to those with sporadic attendance and consistent school attendance is strongly linked to improved social skills, enhanced problem-solving abilities, and increased participation in extracurricular activities.
At La Salle Academy, we are committed to fostering an engaging and safe learning environment. Regular attendance not only ensures that students do not miss out on vital lessons but also helps them build crucial time management skills and a sense of responsibility. Our committed teaching staff work to deliver quality education, and your support in ensuring your child's punctuality and attendance will help us in our aims to
improve student success for our young people.
We encourage you to please use Compass to update student attendance records. Keep up your communication with staff and Pastoral Care Coordinators so that we can work hand in hand to provide our students with the best opportunities for growth and success. Together, we can empower our students to achieve their full potential.  
HSC Practical Marking begins!
Congratulations to our Year 12 students who in the next few weeks will be submitting for marking their practical HSC Major works. Our Industrial Technology - Timber students have already submitted their projects and marking will be conducted next week. For our Music 1 students, they are in the final stages of rehearsal for their Final HSC performances next week which will be marked in Week 9.
We congratulate all our students on their creative efforts and wish them all the best for the marking process. We also need to acknowledge all of the additional support and guidance provided by their teachers especially Mr Pearce for Music and Mr Leighton and Mr Prineas for Timber. Well done to all!
Year 11 Exams
Our Year 11 students will commence their end of preliminary course exams, beginning on Friday September 12th and concluding on Friday, September 19th (Weeks 8 and 9). The students must be present for all exams and have been given a timetable for date and times for each subject. The Year 11 students are only required to attend school for their specific exams; however, students will not be allowed to leave the school in a vehicle driven by another student unless they have confirmed parental permission on the student driver contract. If a student is unable to attend an exam due to illness a parent/guardian needs to ring the school office and inform us of the absence and a doctors certificate will be required as per our Assessment Policy.  We encourage our Year 11 cohort to use the last weeks of the course ahead to seek any additional guidance from their teachers and ensure they have committed themselves to adequate preparation for this important final task of their Year 11 course. We wish them the best of luck for the exam period!

Have a great fortnight
Mrs Holgate

Religious Education Coordinator

Just as you think we are starting to slow down in Term 3, we are only speeding up with so much going on at La Salle Academy! The last few weeks have been filled with opportunities for students to grow in their faith, build leadership skills, and connect with their peers and our local community.

One of the biggest highlights this fortnight was our annual Winter Appeal Sleepout, where 31 students and 7 staff members braved the icy Lithgow night. True to its name, it was a winter’s night to remember. The group gathered in the spirit of solidarity for those who face homelessness, sleeping in the School Hall with only the bare essentials.

Despite the chill, the night was filled with warmth, fun, and school spirit. Students enjoyed a range of activities designed to help them reflect on the challenges faced by the homeless, while also spending time together in laughter and friendship. Pizza, softdrink, popcorn, and games lifted spirits, and in the early hours of the morning a movie brought everyone together once more.

A special visit from Maree Wilsmore of B.U.S.S. (Businesses United Supporting Services). She shared powerful insights about the work she and her team do to support the homeless and marginalised within our local region. Her presence reminded students that even small actions can make a big difference, and many walked away inspired to look for ways to contribute.

But La Salle isn’t slowing down. The Academy is preparing to host over 75 Year 4 students from our Catholic feeder schools for a special Retreat Day. The theme for the day is building connection and unity. This retreat will be led by the school’s Year 9 CSYMI students, who have been working hard to prepare activities, prayer, and reflection sessions. Not only will the Year 4 students benefit from a day of fun and faith, but the Year 9 students will also grow in leadership as they guide and mentor younger peers. Events like this strengthen the connections within our Catholic community and help younger students feel connected to La Salle long before they reach high school.

La Salle’s monthly Youth Mass at St Patrick’s Church, Lithgow, is another way students live out their faith. Each month, students are encouraged to take an active role in the Mass, whether through reading, singing, playing an instrument, altar serving, or bringing forward the offertory gifts. These simple but meaningful contributions allow students to shape a celebration that truly reflects the spirit of the school community.

Even for those who don’t feel confident taking on a formal role, simply being present and joining together in prayer is a way of supporting the Mass and our parish. The next Youth Masses will be held on Sunday 14th September and Sunday 12th October at 10:00am at St Patrick’s Church, Lithgow, and all students, families, and parishioners are warmly invited to attend.

Together, these events paint a picture of a school alive with energy, compassion, and a deep commitment to its Catholic mission. La Salle Academy continues to inspire its students to grow as young people of faith, service, and leadership, always striving to live out the Gospel in practical ways.

Term 3 may be drawing on, but at La Salle Academy, the journey of faith and service is only speeding up.

With warm regards,
Mrs Wilsmore-Smith
Religious Education Coordinator

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Leader of Teaching and Learning

Post- HSC Trial Examination Initiatives

Our Year 12 students have now completed their Trial HSC examinations and have returned to their normal schedule of classes. Teaching staff  now have until the end of the term to refine and develop the skills and knowledge of students to ensure they are fully prepared for their HSC examinations. During this period of time, there are many post-trial initiatives taking place within and outside the classroom. These include, completion of all content, analysis of trial performance, student reflection, timed writing practice, resource booklets and masterclasses. 

In previous years, our staff have run masterclasses for Year 12 students in the final weeks of term. This year, we have employed the services of Connect Education to facilitate masterclasses in the following subjects: English (Advanced and Standard), Mathematics (Ext 1, Advanced and Standard), Biology, Chemistry, Business Studies, Legal Studies and PDHPE.  

As Connect Education does not offer masterclasses in SOR or CAFS, our teachers have kindly offered to create masterclasses for these subjects. Thank you to Mrs Wilsmore-Smith and Ms Millar for providing students with this opportunity. 

Year 12 Masterclasses 

Connect Education provides specialised learning sessions designed to provide our Year 12 students with targeted support in key subject areas. These masterclasses are delivered by high-performing, former HSC students (Band 6 achievement across multiple subjects)  who offer in-depth explanations of syllabus content, exam structures, and high-level study strategies. The sessions often focus on areas students find most challenging, offering practical approaches to problem-solving, effective revision, and exam preparation.

These masterclasses are beneficial because they not only reinforce classroom learning but also provide students with the opportunity to engage with the content in a different context. By breaking down complex concepts and modelling responses to exam-style questions, they help students build confidence and improve their ability to apply knowledge under assessment conditions. Students also gain access to expert insights and tips that may extend beyond what is covered in the classroom, equipping them with a deeper understanding of subject requirements.

For each session, students are provided with a comprehensive resource booklet which they can use at home to supplement their own class and study notes.  The collaborative nature of the sessions creates an environment where students can learn alongside peers with similar goals, fostering a sense of support and shared purpose. Ultimately, these masterclasses not only prepare students for exams but also strengthen critical thinking, study habits, and resilience, which are valuable skills that extend well beyond their school years.

The Masterclasses are scheduled to take place in Weeks 7 and 8 of this term. The timetable for the masterclasses has been shared with students and is also attached to this newsletter. 

Yours in learning, 
Mrs Devine

Pastoral and Wellbeing Co-ordinator Year 7,9 and 11

Over the past fortnight, our school community has had plenty to celebrate when it comes to student wellbeing and achievement.

At our most recent assembly, it was fantastic to see such a large number of students recognised with Bronze, Silver and Value Area Awards. These acknowledgements highlight the effort, growth and positive contributions our students are making across their classes and the wider school community. It was particularly pleasing to see students supporting one another as their peers were celebrated, which reflects the culture of encouragement we are building together.

For our Year 11 students, this has also been an important time as they begin the process of applying for leadership positions for 2026. On Thursday, we were privileged to hear from many fabulous candidates who presented thoughtful and inspiring speeches. Themes that came through strongly included giving back to the school community through fundraising efforts, the importance of being actively involved in extracurricular activities, and a commitment to our school’s goal of working towards a culture of no judgement. Each student spoke with confidence and maturity, demonstrating the strong sense of responsibility and commitment they have towards our school community. Applicants will now move into the interview stage before selections are finalised and the leadership team is announced. We congratulate Year 11 on the way they have embraced this process and commend them for the pride and positivity they have shown throughout.

In addition, our Resilience Project lessons for Years 7, 9 and 11 have focused on the theme of connection with peers. Students have been exploring the importance of building strong, supportive relationships and how simple acts—such as checking in with a friend, including others in group activities, or practising active listening—can make a real difference to their own wellbeing and that of those around them. Staff have also recently undertaken an hour of professional development on The Resilience Project, and will begin incorporating GEM (Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness) chats as short “brain breaks” in their lessons. These strategies will help strengthen our shared language around wellbeing and provide students with simple, practical tools to use both in and outside the classroom.

We are incredibly proud of the way our students are embracing both recognition of their achievements and the ongoing development of their personal wellbeing skills.

Warm regards,
Mrs Tahni Hotham
Wellbeing Coordinator (Years 7, 9 & 11)

Pastoral and Wellbeing Co-ordinator Year 8,10 and 12

Hi all and welcome to week 6,
We are more than half way through the term and the students have been involved in many events and school activities. It’s great to see so many students getting involved and doing their best.

Year 8
This week Year 8 attended the Subject Selection evening which provided some clarity and information about their subject selections for next year. It was good to see the majority of the grade present with their parents. Students are reminded to have their subjects in by Friday
5th September. They should have received an email with the information. The process is the same as their sport selections. Last week Year 8 were visited by Constable Rachael Joyce. This was a good opportunity for students to ask questions and to hear about the consequences of bullying and social media use.

Year 10
Year 10 have been busy! In the midst of assessment tasks and subject selections, students have been involved in the TAFE Yes Day, where they attend TAFE taster courses on Fridays and the University of Notre Dame Rural Week. We had 5 Year 10 students attend the Thursday and Friday sessions at the Lithgow campus, putting on a BBQ for the students and taking part in the dramatisations. La Salle Academy can definitely say that we are proud of our students and they way in which they represented their school.

Year 12
Trials are finished for year 12. Year 12 are encouraged to take the time now to reflect on their results and to continue to work hard as they work towards their final HSC exam. On Monday, Year 12 attended a Mental Health day where they were taken to Penrith Flip Out and Scram Escape Rooms for the day. This was a great opportunity for students to relax and be with their friends post trials.

We are looking forward to the next couple of weeks and I will continue to work with parents and students to encourage healthy routines amongst the students in an environment where they feel encouraged to succeed. Please feel free to reach out if you have any concerns or questions.

Mrs Soliette Markovic
Pastoral/Wellbeing Coordinator for Year 8, 10 and 12

Library News

Celebrating Book Week 2025
Our Book Week celebrations have now concluded for 2025 and what a wonderful time we have had! A huge thank you to all of the students who participated in the events held in the library. Your energy and enthusiasm helped to make it a fabulous celebration. Thank you also to the staff who supported Book Week by contributing to our challenges and dressing in their fabulous costumes. Your efforts were greatly appreciated. All money raised from fundraising activities will go to Reading Out Of Poverty to support disadvantaged communities to access quality reading resources.

Thank you also to Cassidy. P. (Yr 10) for your amazing donations to our second hand books drive. Your generosity reminds us of the power of community and how one act of giving can spark a lasting impact.

We are finalising the list of award winners from our various activities and will be announcing these at an upcoming school assembly.

CBCA Award Winner

Laughter is the Best Ending by Maryam Master, illustrated by Astred (Astrid) Hicks

This delightful novel takes readers on a wild and funny ride as Zee, a reluctant camper, navigates a holiday camp along with a quirky cast of characters and an unexpected murder-mystery game. Master’s sharp and humorous writing strikes just the right balance between laughter and meaningful emotion, while Hicks’ lively illustrations enhance the playful narrative. It’s a modern, heartwarming adventure about friendship, identity, and finding connection in unexpected places. 

Happy Reading, 
Mrs Devine

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Finance

SCHOOL FEES FOR 2025

Account Statements were issued on Monday the 4th of August via email. The final instalment was due Friday 15th August for those paying by instalments.

Now is a good time to look over your balance and work out the weekly instalments to finalise your account by December 12th.

If you have a Payment Plan, please make sure your payments clear the account by Friday, December 12th. I strongly encourage those who have not yet set up a Payment Plan to do so, as there are only 17 weeks left in the payment plan timeline.

For anyone who may be experiencing difficulty or needing to have a discussion regarding account payments, I do encourage you to reach out so we can discuss options that may be available.

Your account is also accessible 24 hours via Compass to make payments. If you have any questions relating to your account, please let us know by contacting the school office. If you have not received your School Fee Statement via email at all, please contact the school office to ensure that we have the correct email address on our system.

Fee Billing Dates for 2025 are listed below:
Fees are generated at the beginning of the year and split into 3 instalments. Instalment due dates are as follows:* Term 1 Statement Date 28/02/2025 and instalment due date 14/03/2025* Term 2 Statement Date 9/05/2025 and instalment due date 23/05/2025* Term 3 Statement Date 1/08/2025 and instalment due date 15/08/2025.

A reminder that payments can be made by the following payment options:
• Account balances can be accessed via Compass and payments can be made on the App.
• BPay Payment References are readily available on the Fee Statements.
• Direct Debit Forms are available at the school – just call or email to enquire.
• EFTPOS is available in person at the office or you are welcome to make payment over the phone.
• Centrepay Forms are available from ServiceNSW or call / email and we can arrange one to be sent.

Please don’t hesitate to contact the office by calling (02) 6354 5100 or by emailing the school on lasallelithgow@bth.catholic.edu.au if you have any questions relating to your account or if experiencing any difficulty so we can arrange a suitable solution.

Thank you.

Kind regards,
Narelle Lee
Office Manager

All Things Attendance

It is law in NSW that all school age children must attend school every day that the school is open.
There is a direct relationship between learning success and excellent attendance.

WHY IS SCHOOL ATTENDANCE SO IMPORTANT
Regular school attendance is not just about meeting a requirement; it is a fundamental building block that sets the stage for academic growth, personal development and the pursuit of life’s opportunities.

Consistent school attendance is a key factor in preparing students for success beyond schooland in their future careers. Employers and higher education institutions value dedication and commitment demonstrated through regular attendance.

Attending school everyday helps children establish routine and develop habits of punctuality and responsibility and helps set our children up to embrace the future, valuing commitment, reliability and community.
As a parent you have a legal responsibility to ensure your child of compulsory school age is enrolled in school and attends every day.
Parents must provide the school with a valid explanation for their child's absence, usually within seven days of the first day of absence. This explanation can be via the Compass Parent portal app, phone call, email, or a written note. 
In some cases, a medical certificate may be required to explain absences, particularly if a child is absent for multiple consecutive days. 
Please remember partial attendance is included in the attendance rate. Has your child been arriving late or leaving early for appointments and could these be made well after school or earlier as to not impact on your child’s attendance and learning. Is your child always late, maybe being more organised the night before can be all it takes for your child to be arriving on time. Please be aware that school at La Salle Academy starts at 8:58am not 9am. A few minor adjustments could be made and make a huge difference to your child’s attendance at school.

We are now at the end of Week 6 – Term 3 and I ask you to see if improvement is needed in regards to your child’s attendance. Are they at the expected 90% or higher rate or are they falling behind.

Is your child having difficulties at school and you are finding it hard to get your child to school every day. Please get I touch with your child’s Pastoral Wellbeing Co-ordinator and they will be more than happy to help put in strategies and ideas to help your child attend on a more regular basis.
La Salle recognises and values the benefits of a positive home/school relationship and seeks to involve parents in developing and maintaining the strategies that support the development of positive patterns of attendance for all students. We ask parents to help us make school attendance a priority.

Mrs Kath Staines
Attendance Wellbeing Officer

Welcome from the Executive Director of Schools

Welcome to the first edition of the Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst (CEDB) Parent Engagement (PEN) Newsletter for 2025.This newsletter aims to share information with Principals, parents, carers and families within the Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst schools and will be published twice yearly.  A special thank you to the parents who have offered to be a parent engagement link, either through your P & F or your school’s Parent Reference, Engagement or Cultural Advisory Group. Please take some time to read the interesting information contained within the publication.

The PEN Newsletter includes information from the Council of Catholic School Parents NSW and ACT (CCSP). This organisation is the peak body for parents and carers of children in NSW Catholic schools. More information can be found here: CCSP. This site contains relevant information for all families in our Catholic schools in NSW and is worth taking a look around, including the CCSP Newsletter Parent Talk. This year CCSP is celebrating their 30th Anniversary with a conference on Saturday 25 October with the theme “SUPPORTING FAMILIES: WORKING TOGETHER IN A MODERN WORLD – A conference for parents and carers of children in Catholic schools in the Jubilee Year of Hope”.

More information can be found in the link below.

https://bthcathed.schoolzineplus.com/PEN?nid=57&preview=true&token=68801f80c09ad&obj_id=57

Christina Trimble

Executive Director of Schools

Activities at Headspace

NSW Police Force Academy Open Day

Youth in Aviation

Catholic Faith handbook for 2026

CCSP have recently updated the Our Catholic Faith handbook for 2026 – it’s a very popular guide to Catholicism because it’s easy to read. Resources and Links for Families: https://www.ccsp.catholic.edu.au/faith-formation

Important Information

Catholic Education Benefits All Australians

Catholic schools are Australia's largest non-government education provider, delivering choice, affordability and value for all. With the election coming up,parents might be interested in finding out more information by going to https://ncec.catholic.edu.au/2025-federal-election/ There is a great short video explaining how school funding works.

CEBD Community Charter

Announcement

Centacare programs

NSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy

NSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy | Have Your Say

Becoming a foster carer

Canteen- Flexischools App

Canteen cut off times for order are as follows:

Recess: 10am

Lunch time : 12pm 

If you are interested in helping in the canteen please call our office 6354 5100

Thank You

Regards
Leanne
Canteen Manager

We have the flexischools app for your convenience order online - See the flyers below with instructions on how to order.

School Zones Reminder

A reminder to all our parents that school zones remain in place for the safety of our children and families. School zones operate on all gazetted school days, which are all the days the school is open, even pupil free days.