Mountains students making a difference

Blue Mountains primary schools Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese 23

In a wonderful example of community spirit and togetherness, students from four Blue Mountains primary schools came together recently for a special Mountains Encounter retreat focusing on what they’ve done and can do to help ensure everyone in society has equal rights, opportunities and is treated fairly.

Students from the Faith In Action (FIAT) teams at St Finbar's Primary Glenbrook, St Thomas Aquinas Primary Springwood, St Canice's Primary Katoomba, and Our Lady of the Nativity Primary Lawson gathered at St Finbar's for the afternoon retreat which, over the past few years, has brought considerable benefits to both students, their schools and the wider community.

Students reflected on what they’d learnt throughout the year and their involvement in social justice initiatives such as Project Compassion, food drives and volunteering for Vinnies and Jesuit Refugee Services.

Blue Mountains primary schools Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese 24

Mountains Encounter, overseen by Lauren Maund, Director of Catholic Identity and Mission, aims to strengthen bonds among students while offering them opportunities to explore their faith through various enriching activities. Students took part in team-building exercises, faith formation workshops, and reflections centered on the Advent season. The main message was to encourage students to embrace their roles in carrying forward Christ’s mission of service and unity.

One of the highlights of the event was the traditional sausage sizzle dinner where students got to share a meal while learning about each other and their different communities in the Blue Mountains.

The retreat was more than just a gathering, it was a demonstration of how schools in the Blue Mountains are living out their faith through action. Their dedication to social justice and building community proves that living your faith can make a real difference in our world.

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Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au

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27 Mar 2026
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We are incredibly proud to share that one of our talented Stage 3 students has been selected to attend the Diocesan Football Trials! ⚽👏 This is a fantastic achievement Blair and we wish you the very best of luck as you enjoy this exciting next step — we know you will represent our school with pride and a great big smile. Congratulations 🌟⚽️

24 Mar 2026
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Last Friday our school was a sea of orange as we celebrated Harmony Day! 🧡 As a Catholic school, we are guided by our values of love, respect, and inclusion, which were beautifully reflected throughout the day. Our students proudly wore orange to show that everyone belongs and took part in a special activity by creating and planting handprints - symbolising unity, respect, and the strength of our diverse community growing together. We are so proud of our students for embracing kindness, inclusion, and celebrating what makes each of us unique. Together, we continue to build a school where every voice is valued and everyone feels they belong. #HarmonyDay #EveryoneBelongs #CelebrateDiversity