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.
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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03 Jul 2026
From Facebook
This week, our students proudly celebrated NAIDOC Week by taking part in a range of engaging activities that honoured the rich histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through art, storytelling, discussions, and hands-on learning experiences, students explored the importance of connection to Country, community, culture, and respect. These activities encouraged meaningful conversations and helped deepen our understanding of Australia's First Nations peoples and their enduring contributions. #cspd2026 #jarara #NAIDOCWeek
02 Jul 2026
From Facebook
🪑 The Chairs Quit! 🪑 There was quite a surprise in Stage 1 this week... the classroom chairs decided they'd had enough and quit! To persuade them to return, our students took on the challenge of writing convincing letters explaining why the chairs should come back and how they would be better cared for in the future. This fun and engaging activity gave students a meaningful opportunity to develop their persuasive writing skills while using creativity, empathy, and problem-solving. 😊📚✏️ Luckily after 2 days, with such amazing writing, the chairs were persuaded to return. The students are remembering to treat them kindly and safely. 🥰🪑 #Stage1 #PersuasiveWriting #LearningThroughFun #CreativeClassroom
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03 Jul 2026
From Facebook
This week, our students proudly celebrated NAIDOC Week by taking part in a range of engaging activities that honoured the rich histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through art, storytelling, discussions, and hands-on learning experiences, students explored the importance of connection to Country, community, culture, and respect. These activities encouraged meaningful conversations and helped deepen our understanding of Australia's First Nations peoples and their enduring contributions. #cspd2026 #jarara #NAIDOCWeek
02 Jul 2026
From Facebook
🪑 The Chairs Quit! 🪑 There was quite a surprise in Stage 1 this week... the classroom chairs decided they'd had enough and quit! To persuade them to return, our students took on the challenge of writing convincing letters explaining why the chairs should come back and how they would be better cared for in the future. This fun and engaging activity gave students a meaningful opportunity to develop their persuasive writing skills while using creativity, empathy, and problem-solving. 😊📚✏️ Luckily after 2 days, with such amazing writing, the chairs were persuaded to return. The students are remembering to treat them kindly and safely. 🥰🪑 #Stage1 #PersuasiveWriting #LearningThroughFun #CreativeClassroom
02 Jul 2026
From Facebook
A Happy birthday to all these wonderful children who celebrated their birthdays in June. We all hope they enjoyed their special day.
23 Jun 2026
From Facebook
What a wonderful community we have! 💙 Our parish, families, teachers, and students have been busily knitting squares, which Miss Mahairas has lovingly brought together to create beautiful blankets for the Vinnies Winter Appeal. Some blankets have already been donated, providing warmth and comfort to those in need during the colder months. These are our latest creations, and we couldn't be prouder of the generosity, kindness, and community spirit shown by everyone involved. #vinnieswinterappeal #cspd2026
19 Jun 2026
From Facebook
On Wednesday 17th June, the staff celebrated Ms Bentley with a gorgeous morning tea ☕️🍰 Ms Bentley has served our community with unwavering dedication, energy and enthusiasm, always striving to meet the diverse needs of all students at OLN. She has been a passionate advocate for our most vulnerable learners, ensuring they have every opportunity to thrive and succeed. Throughout her time with us, Ms Bentley has selflessly supported our students, families, colleagues and the wider school community with professionalism, compassion and care. We wish you well in your new role Ms Bentley and we hope the spirit of OLN will stay close to your heart 💗
12 Jun 2026
From Facebook
This week, Uncle Ted joined some of our students for a yarning circle, sharing stories about culture, connection, and community. 🌿 Students had the opportunity to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations about the importance of celebrating their culture. These experiences help strengthen understanding, foster pride in identity, and build deeper connections with one another. A big thank you to Uncle Ted for sharing his knowledge, wisdom, and experiences with our students. ❤️🖤💛 #olnlawson #windowintolearning #cspd2026 #jarara #yarningcircle
10 Jun 2026
From Facebook
It has come to our attention that several teachers have accidentally coordinated today’s fashion choices 😍 OLN would love to assure everyone that no notes, emails, group chats or mandatory uniform memos were involved in this occurrence - it was a pure coincidence!! Who knows what next week may bring??#ourladyofthenativity #ProudSchoolCommunity #lovewherewework
09 Jun 2026
From Facebook
**✨ A Huge Thank You! ✨** A heartfelt thank you to our very generous and supportive Parent Council for transforming one of our play areas. The students were beyond excited and filled with joy as they explored the space for the first time. Their smiles, laughter, and enthusiasm said it all! We can't wait to watch their curiosity, imagination, and cooperation continue to grow as they enjoy this wonderful new environment. 💙 Thank you for your ongoing support and generosity. It is truly appreciated! #Grateful #LearningThroughPlay #ThankYouParentCouncil #ourladyofthenativity
05 Jun 2026
From Facebook
A Happy birthday to all these wonderful children who celebrated their birthdays in May. We all hope they enjoyed their special day.
04 Jun 2026
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