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.

Photo Gallery

Written By

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

FaceBook

25 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Today was a day full of tears, hugs, and heartfelt farewells. 💐 You will be dearly missed, Mrs Chaloner ❤️ Thank you for the memories, the care, and the love. Wishing you all the best in your next chapter — you will always hold a special place in our hearts.

19 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Yesterday, our school community gathered in faith and unity to celebrate Ash Wednesday and mark the beginning of Lent. We joined in prayer to begin our Lenten journey together as a school family. Lent is a special time in which we prepare our hearts for Easter. During this sacred season, we unite with Catholic communities throughout the world, continuing the rich traditions of the Church. As we received ashes in the sign of the cross, we were reminded that God is calling us to forgive, to be free from what holds us back, and to help bring hope and peace to others. The ashes are a powerful symbol of reflection, renewal, and God’s endless mercy. May this Lenten season be a time of growth, compassion, and faith for each member of our community as we journey toward Easter together. ✝️💜 #olnlawson #cspd2026 #AshWednesday #windowintolearning