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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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