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17 Feb 2026
From Facebook
⭐ PENOLA 2026 OPENING MASS 🙏 Today, we gathered as a community for our Opening Mass, grounding our year in faith, unity and purpose 🙏 Together, we thanked God for the gifts He gives us and dedicated the year ahead to Him in gratitude and love. In our Catholic tradition, Christ is the light of the world, and we are reminded to awaken and allow His light to shine within us. As year candles were lit by student representatives and leaders, we were reminded that we walk this journey together, united as one Penola community. We offered a special blessing for our Year 7 students and new staff, praying that they feel welcomed, supported and guided as they begin this new chapter. Thank you to Fr Johnson Joseph CRS for leading us in prayer, and to our families and staff whose presence and preparation made the celebration so meaningful. As we begin 2026, may the light of Christ guide our learning, shape our character and strengthen our commitment to live with courage, compassion, hope and integrity. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
17 Feb 2026
From Facebook
🥞 SHROVE TUESDAY 🥞 Today we celebrated Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent, with plenty of delicious pancakes and community spirit 🥞 Proceeds from the day will support the important work of Caritas Australia. Thank you to our staff and students for helping make the celebration possible, and to our families for their generous support! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
13 Feb 2026
From Facebook
⭐ WELCOMING NEW STAFF FOR 2026 ⭐ As our College community grows, we are delighted to welcome several new staff members to Penola Catholic College. Each brings valuable experience, fresh perspective and a shared commitment to supporting both the learning and wellbeing of our students. Their expertise strengthens our mission to provide a faith-grounded education where every young person is known, supported and encouraged to strive for excellence. We warmly welcome (from L to R): Miss Tatiana Hou, Science Teacher Mr Tony Wilkinson, Science Teacher (Physics) Mr Bill Little, Science Teacher (Physics) Mr Michael Laws, Diversity Teacher Mrs Rachel Maxwell, TAS Teacher Mr Craig Adams, Leader of Learning TAS Mrs Crystal Primmer, Religious Education Teacher Mrs Donica Marks, Mathematics Teacher Together, they join a dedicated team committed to forming strong habits of learning, fostering curiosity and guiding students with courage, compassion, hope and integrity. We look forward to the knowledge, energy and care they will bring to our Penola community in 2026.
13 Feb 2026
From Facebook
⭐ 2025 HSC DUX ASSEMBLY 🎓 This week, we proudly acknowledged our 2025 College Dux, Sophie, who achieved an outstanding ATAR of 95, at a special assembly with our Year 10, 11 and 12 students. Sophie’s outstanding HSC results reflect more than academic success. They speak to perseverance, discipline and a deep commitment to her learning. As our Principal, Mrs Peta Sparkes, reminded students, “HSC success takes dedication, commitment, and the daily choice to keep showing up, even when it’s hard. Gifts alone don’t create success. It is up to you to work hard, to stay focused, and to choose habits that help you grow.” Reflecting on her own journey, Sophie shared that success came from building a consistent routine that balanced commitment with wellbeing: “When you have a routine and you are consistent with your study habits, but you also make time for the things that make you happy, for sport, for the gym and for your friends, you can still do very well while having good balance.” She encouraged our senior students to lean into the support around them, reminding them to “do the practice papers, ask the questions, and always put your hand up if you don’t know something. Your teachers want your success as much as you do. They are always there to help you.” Her words remind us that excellence is built day by day through steady effort, strong habits and the courage to seek support. We are incredibly proud of Sophie, not only for her exceptional results, but for the integrity and humility she has shown throughout her time at Penola. Her achievement reflects what is possible when faith, perseverance and purpose guide learning. Congratulations, Sophie! We are proud to honour your achievement and the example you set for our community. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
10 Feb 2026
From Facebook
🥞 SHROVE TUESDAY 🥞 Shrove Tuesday falls on Tuesday 17 February 2026. In honour of this occasion, we are offering pancakes for sale to support Caritas Australia. Please pre-order through the Qkr! App by 5:30pm on Sunday 15 February 2026.
10 Feb 2026
From Facebook
⭐ FIRST WHOLE SCHOOL ASSEMBLY 2026 ⭐ It was a meaningful moment to gather as one Penola community as we began the 2026 school year 🙏 Together, we welcomed new students and staff and recommitted ourselves to our vision of learning together, striving for excellence, and living out our values of courage, compassion, hope and integrity. We look ahead with confidence, trusting in God’s grace as we grow, learn and serve together 💛📘
10 Feb 2026
From Facebook
⭐ YEAR 7 MEET & GREET ⭐ On Tuesday 17 February, the College will host the Year 7 Meet & Greet - a special event for Year 7 families. This is a great opportunity for Year 7 students to introduce their parents/carers to their teachers in an informal setting. The event will begin at 5pm and conclude by 6pm. Please RSVP by 12pm on Monday 16 February via CompassTix.
10 Feb 2026
Choosing a School: A Guide for Parents
Choosing a school is a big moment. Right up there with choosing a pram, a first pet or agreeing to sign your child up for weekend sport for the next decade. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but take a breath. This guide is here to make the process feel lighter, clearer and a lot less daunting, so you can feel confident you’re asking the right questions and find a school that truly fits your child for any grade.
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