Learning and Teaching (AP)

Supporting Student Growth and Academic Success

As we enter the heart of Term 3, the school's focus remains on learning, preparation, and celebrating student achievement.

Celebrating Academic Achievement

Our Semester 1 Awards Assembly was a wonderful celebration of student achievement and commitment. Students from Years 7 to 11 were recognised for academic excellence and their ongoing demonstration of our College Expectations: Safety, Effort, Respect, and Responsibility.

It was heartening to see so many parents, carers, and extended family members in attendance, joining us to acknowledge these student successes.

A complete list of award recipients is included later in this newsletter.

Parent–Teacher–Student Conferences (Years 7–11)

Thank you to all families who attended our recent Parent–Teacher–Student Conferences. These evenings continue to be valuable opportunities for students to reflect on their learning, engage in meaningful conversations with teachers, and set goals for improvement.

We were particularly pleased to see so many students actively participating—articulating what helps them succeed in class and discussing how they can continue to improve.

The evening also allowed us to showcase examples of student work and introduce families to the Parent Literacy Strategies and Resource Book, designed to support reading and writing at home in partnership with the College. This resource, developed collaboratively with staff, is included below.

Year 12: Trials Nearing Completion – But the HSC journey isn't over

As it is week 4, our Year 12 students are entering the final week of their Trial HSC exams—a significant milestone in their final year of schooling. We commend them for their hard work and commitment during this demanding period. Our external exam supervisor has been overwhelmingly positive about how McAuley students have approached these exams.

However, it is essential to remember that the journey is far from over. The HSC examinations still account for 50% of their final results. What happens in the next six weeks of school will be critical in shaping each student's success. These final weeks at school can make all the difference—academically and in helping students feel confident and well-prepared. We urge all students to stay focused, make the most of available support, and strive for their personal best.

When the trial exams  are returned to students, it will be essential to consider the following:

• Students must carefully review teacher feedback to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Now is the time to rework essays and responses, correct errors, and refine arguments or techniques.
• A consistent and dedicated study routine is essential—from revising notes to completing past papers under timed conditions.
• Most importantly, students should proactively seek teacher feedback and engage in ongoing dialogue about improving further.

We also have many Year 12 students completing the finishing touches on their major works over the remainder of the month, and we would like to invite the school community to acknowledge the incredible talent of our students at the HSC Showcase, which will be held at the College Library on Wednesday, September 3rd, from 4 pm to 6 pm.

Year 11: A Time for Focus and Preparation

While our Year 11 students will be away on retreat during the first part of this week, I'd like to take this opportunity to remind them—and their families—that only seven weeks remain in the Preliminary HSC Course. Thus, now is crucial for students to consolidate their learning and prepare thoroughly for the upcoming Preliminary Exams. 

We encourage all Year 11 students to continue developing a consistent homework and study routine. Proactive preparation will enhance their performance and build confidence and resilience in their learning.

Year 10: Planning for the Future

This term, our Stage 6 subject selection process continues with a significant milestone: the Future Pathways Interviews, scheduled for Tuesday, August 26th.

These compulsory interviews involve each Year 10 student and at least one parent/carer. They are essential for helping students make informed decisions about their senior study pattern and potential post-school pathways. Families are asked to book their interviews by Tuesday, August 20th (letters were sent home last Friday with instructions for the booking platform).

During the interviews, students will:

• Meet with subject specialists / Middle Leaders
• Receive personalised guidance and answers to their questions
• Review and, if necessary, adjust their current subject selection sheet

Students not returning to McAuley in 2026 are also required to attend. These students will meet with our Careers Adviser or Pastoral Care staff to explore alternative educational or work-related pathways.

Should you have any questions about the booking process, please don't hesitate to contact the College Office.

Thank you for your continued support.