As we near the end of Term 1 we are reminded that parenting is one of the most important, and often unseen, forms of love.
It is shaped by patience, sacrifice, worry, joy and countless small decisions made day after day. Parenting is rarely perfect or effortless, but it is marked by care, perseverance and deep commitment.
Within the Christian faith, parents are reminded of the importance of compassion, grace and patience in family life. “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Psalm 103:8)
To all parents in our community: your care matters and your love is seen. As a school, we are grateful to partner with you in supporting and nurturing your children. ... See MoreSee Less
Our Kirrikee Outdoor Education Centre came alive on Sunday as families gathered for the annual P&F Kirrikee Family Day in the beautiful Southern Highlands.
The day began with a peaceful service in the outdoor chapel beside the water, before students, parents and staff enjoyed a full programme of activities across the site. From high ropes and abseiling to mountain biking, billy karting and swimming, there was something for everyone to experience – along with plenty of time to relax, connect and enjoy the stunning Kirrikee surrounds.
A huge thank you to our Parents & Friends Association for organising such a special community day, and to the many families who joined us.
Head of School, Dr Julie McGonigle, said the day was an excellent opportunity for families to experience the spirit of Kirrikee together.
"What a glorious day! The outdoor chapel, the intricate den building, unhurried conversations over cups of tea, multi-age group challenges and of course perfect weather – what a special and memorable moment of community building – thank you to all the staff, students and families for making it so life-giving. Can’t wait until next time.”
Funds raised from the event will support the Penrose Rural Fire Brigade, who play a vital role in protecting Kirrikee and the wider Penrose community. ... See MoreSee Less
This weekend’s sports victories were unforgettable, but there’s another group who helped make those moments possible – our parents.
From early morning drop-offs to cheering on the sidelines, from encouraging words after tough games to celebrating the big wins, your support makes a powerful difference in the lives of our students.
School sport is about far more than the final score. It’s about resilience, confidence, teamwork and growth – and those lessons are strengthened when students know their families are behind them, every step of the way.
To all the parents and families who travelled, supported, encouraged and celebrated alongside our teams this season: thank you. Your presence, energy and belief help create the community spirit that makes St Andrew’s Cathedral School sport so special.
We are proud of our students – and grateful for the families who support them. ... See MoreSee Less
Today we were delighted to host The Big Classroom at St Andrew’s Cathedral School, bringing together educators and leaders for a full day of professional learning, focused on practical, high-impact teaching strategies.
Led by internationally respected educator Tom Sherrington, the workshop explored a range of evidence-informed classroom techniques from the Teaching WalkThrus framework – modelling strategies that support engagement, questioning, discussion and deeper learning in the classroom. Participants experienced these approaches live, with opportunities to practise, discuss, implement and explore coaching conversations that support great teaching.
With more than 30 years’ experience as a teacher, headteacher and education consultant, Tom works with schools around the world to help teachers refine their practice and build strong cultures of professional learning.
At St Andrew’s Cathedral School, we believe that great schools invest in great teachers. Professional development is central to our commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, and we are proud to host opportunities like this that bring educators together to learn, collaborate and grow.
We were happy to welcome colleagues from across Sydney for an inspiring and practical day of learning.
On Monday 9 March, we had the privilege of welcoming Mr John Fejo to spend time with our First Nations students at Gawura School and St Andrew’s Cathedral School.
Pastor John Fejo is the founder of AI First Nations, an environmental technology business that uses drones and artificial intelligence to support land and environmental management. A proud Larrakia Nation man from the Northern Territory, John is currently working with the Goondoi Rangers in Innisfail, Queensland.
During his visit, John met with Head of School, Dr Julie McGonigle, Gawura School students from Kindergarten to Year 6, our Year 11 Aboriginal Studies class and First Nations Secondary School students in Year 7 and 9.
John shared insights into his work combining environmental stewardship, technology and cultural knowledge, explaining how drones and AI can support land management and protect Country. His story demonstrated how innovation and First Nations knowledge can work together to create meaningful solutions for the future.
In addition to his environmental work, John also serves as Indigenous Wellbeing Officer and School Chaplain at Radiant Life College in Innisfail, where he continues to support young people and community through leadership and care.
We thank John for generously sharing his time, knowledge and journey with our students. His visit was an inspiring reminder of the power of culture, innovation and caring for Country 🌿 ... See MoreSee Less
Thank you to Gawura School and St Andrew’s Cathedral School for the warm welcome. It was a real privilege to spend time with your First Nations students and share a little about caring for Country through culture, technology, drones and AI.I was inspired by the curiosity, thoughtful questions and strong leadership shown by the students. Our young people are the future, and it’s encouraging to see them engaging with both cultural knowledge and innovation.Thank you again for the opportunity to connect, learn together and support the next generation of leaders. 🌿
— John Fejo
CHAMPIONS!
Saturday delivered some unforgettable moments for St Andrew’s Cathedral School sport, with multiple teams claiming premiership titles in thrilling fashion.
Basketball Three incredible ISA Grand Final wins capped off a huge season. The Junior A Girls completed a remarkable comeback to defeat previously undefeated Central Coast Grammar 21–20 in a thrilling finish. The 14B Boys battled past St Augustine’s 34–30, showing composure and teamwork under pressure. The 1st V Boys delivered one of the most dramatic finishes of the day, scoring with seconds remaining to claim a 65–64 buzzer-beater victory and secure their sixth consecutive ISA premiership.
Touch Football A huge day on the field saw several teams lift the trophy. The 1st Girls produced a dominant Grand Final performance to win 9–0, while the Junior B Girls secured a convincing 6–1 victory. The Junior C Girls fought through an intense defensive battle, eventually winning 1–0 in drop-offs after an incredibly tense finish.
From last-second baskets to drop-off tries, these matches showcased the resilience, teamwork and determination that define St Andrew’s Cathedral School sport.
Congratulations to all players and coaches on an outstanding finals series. ... See MoreSee Less
Congratulations girls! What a great result. Thank you coaches.
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women and girls around the world and recognises the ongoing work toward gender equality.
The 2026 theme, #GiveToGain, reminds us that when we give our support, encouragement and opportunities to others, we help create a world where women and girls can thrive.
At St Andrew’s Cathedral School, this commitment is reflected in our co-educational community. After more than a century as a boys’ school, we welcomed senior girls in 1999 and became fully co-educational in 2008. Today, we continue to foster a learning environment where every student is valued, supported and empowered.
This International Women’s Day, how will you Give To Gain? ... See MoreSee Less
Despite the rain, our Junior School and Gawura School leaders embraced every moment of their time at the Junior School Leaders Retreat. This was held last week at our Outdoor Education Centre, Kirrikee, in the Southern Highlands.
Across two purposeful days, the leadership team strengthened their teamwork on the high ropes, supported one another through challenge activities and gave back, by planting new trees on the grounds. Alongside the fun and adventure, they spent time planning how they will serve our school community with humility and courage throughout the year ahead.
We are proud of the way they encouraged one another, stepped outside their comfort zones and began putting servant leadership into action. We look forward to seeing the impact they will make in 2026. ... See MoreSee Less
This week, we celebrated the vibrant tapestry of cultures represented at our School, at Culture Fest. St Andrew's Cathedral School is blessed with an incredibly diverse community – with over 40 languages spoken in our Secondary School alone. This diversity is something we celebrate, with Culture Fest a chance for us to come together in a spirit of unity, appreciation and mutual respect.
Students showcased their creativity, leadership and cultural pride by running booths with interactive activities, cultural displays and international snacks. It was a wonderful opportunity to become immersed in the customs and history of different cultures while developing valuable leadership skills in a hands-on way.
As a school, we believe that every child is infinitely precious and unique, created in God’s image. Culture Fest serves as a reminder of the beauty of our differences, and the unity we share in our common humanity. We are grateful to all who made this event possible and for the incredible diversity that enriches our school community every day. ... See MoreSee Less
As we near the end of Term 1 we are reminded that parenting is one of the most important, and often unseen, forms of love.
It is shaped by patience, sacrifice, worry, joy and countless small decisions made day after day. Parenting is rarely perfect or effortless, but it is marked by care, perseverance and deep commitment.
Within the Christian faith, parents are reminded of the importance of compassion, grace and patience in family life. “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Psalm 103:8)
To all parents in our community: your care matters and your love is seen. As a school, we are grateful to partner with you in supporting and nurturing your children. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Taking family time to new heights at Kirrikee.
Our Kirrikee Outdoor Education Centre came alive on Sunday as families gathered for the annual P&F Kirrikee Family Day in the beautiful Southern Highlands.
The day began with a peaceful service in the outdoor chapel beside the water, before students, parents and staff enjoyed a full programme of activities across the site. From high ropes and abseiling to mountain biking, billy karting and swimming, there was something for everyone to experience – along with plenty of time to relax, connect and enjoy the stunning Kirrikee surrounds.
A huge thank you to our Parents & Friends Association for organising such a special community day, and to the many families who joined us.
Head of School, Dr Julie McGonigle, said the day was an excellent opportunity for families to experience the spirit of Kirrikee together.
"What a glorious day! The outdoor chapel, the intricate den building, unhurried conversations over cups of tea, multi-age group challenges and of course perfect weather – what a special and memorable moment of community building – thank you to all the staff, students and families for making it so life-giving. Can’t wait until next time.”
Funds raised from the event will support the Penrose Rural Fire Brigade, who play a vital role in protecting Kirrikee and the wider Penrose community. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Behind every moment
This weekend’s sports victories were unforgettable, but there’s another group who helped make those moments possible – our parents.
From early morning drop-offs to cheering on the sidelines, from encouraging words after tough games to celebrating the big wins, your support makes a powerful difference in the lives of our students.
School sport is about far more than the final score. It’s about resilience, confidence, teamwork and growth – and those lessons are strengthened when students know their families are behind them, every step of the way.
To all the parents and families who travelled, supported, encouraged and celebrated alongside our teams this season: thank you. Your presence, energy and belief help create the community spirit that makes St Andrew’s Cathedral School sport so special.
We are proud of our students – and grateful for the families who support them. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
The Big Classroom | Sydney
Today we were delighted to host The Big Classroom at St Andrew’s Cathedral School, bringing together educators and leaders for a full day of professional learning, focused on practical, high-impact teaching strategies.
Led by internationally respected educator Tom Sherrington, the workshop explored a range of evidence-informed classroom techniques from the Teaching WalkThrus framework – modelling strategies that support engagement, questioning, discussion and deeper learning in the classroom. Participants experienced these approaches live, with opportunities to practise, discuss, implement and explore coaching conversations that support great teaching.
With more than 30 years’ experience as a teacher, headteacher and education consultant, Tom works with schools around the world to help teachers refine their practice and build strong cultures of professional learning.
At St Andrew’s Cathedral School, we believe that great schools invest in great teachers. Professional development is central to our commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, and we are proud to host opportunities like this that bring educators together to learn, collaborate and grow.
We were happy to welcome colleagues from across Sydney for an inspiring and practical day of learning.
#ProfessionalLearning #TeachingWalkThrus #TeacherDevelopment #Education #SydneyEducators ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
On Monday 9 March, we had the privilege of welcoming Mr John Fejo to spend time with our First Nations students at Gawura School and St Andrew’s Cathedral School.
Pastor John Fejo is the founder of AI First Nations, an environmental technology business that uses drones and artificial intelligence to support land and environmental management. A proud Larrakia Nation man from the Northern Territory, John is currently working with the Goondoi Rangers in Innisfail, Queensland.
During his visit, John met with Head of School, Dr Julie McGonigle, Gawura School students from Kindergarten to Year 6, our Year 11 Aboriginal Studies class and First Nations Secondary School students in Year 7 and 9.
John shared insights into his work combining environmental stewardship, technology and cultural knowledge, explaining how drones and AI can support land management and protect Country. His story demonstrated how innovation and First Nations knowledge can work together to create meaningful solutions for the future.
In addition to his environmental work, John also serves as Indigenous Wellbeing Officer and School Chaplain at Radiant Life College in Innisfail, where he continues to support young people and community through leadership and care.
We thank John for generously sharing his time, knowledge and journey with our students. His visit was an inspiring reminder of the power of culture, innovation and caring for Country 🌿 ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
Thank you to Gawura School and St Andrew’s Cathedral School for the warm welcome. It was a real privilege to spend time with your First Nations students and share a little about caring for Country through culture, technology, drones and AI.I was inspired by the curiosity, thoughtful questions and strong leadership shown by the students. Our young people are the future, and it’s encouraging to see them engaging with both cultural knowledge and innovation.Thank you again for the opportunity to connect, learn together and support the next generation of leaders. 🌿 — John Fejo
CHAMPIONS!
Saturday delivered some unforgettable moments for St Andrew’s Cathedral School sport, with multiple teams claiming premiership titles in thrilling fashion.
Basketball
Three incredible ISA Grand Final wins capped off a huge season. The Junior A Girls completed a remarkable comeback to defeat previously undefeated Central Coast Grammar 21–20 in a thrilling finish. The 14B Boys battled past St Augustine’s 34–30, showing composure and teamwork under pressure. The 1st V Boys delivered one of the most dramatic finishes of the day, scoring with seconds remaining to claim a 65–64 buzzer-beater victory and secure their sixth consecutive ISA premiership.
Touch Football
A huge day on the field saw several teams lift the trophy. The 1st Girls produced a dominant Grand Final performance to win 9–0, while the Junior B Girls secured a convincing 6–1 victory. The Junior C Girls fought through an intense defensive battle, eventually winning 1–0 in drop-offs after an incredibly tense finish.
From last-second baskets to drop-off tries, these matches showcased the resilience, teamwork and determination that define St Andrew’s Cathedral School sport.
Congratulations to all players and coaches on an outstanding finals series. ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Congratulations girls! What a great result. Thank you coaches.
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women and girls around the world and recognises the ongoing work toward gender equality.
The 2026 theme, #GiveToGain, reminds us that when we give our support, encouragement and opportunities to others, we help create a world where women and girls can thrive.
At St Andrew’s Cathedral School, this commitment is reflected in our co-educational community. After more than a century as a boys’ school, we welcomed senior girls in 1999 and became fully co-educational in 2008. Today, we continue to foster a learning environment where every student is valued, supported and empowered.
This International Women’s Day, how will you Give To Gain? ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Bridging worlds building futures. Amen
Despite the rain, our Junior School and Gawura School leaders embraced every moment of their time at the Junior School Leaders Retreat. This was held last week at our Outdoor Education Centre, Kirrikee, in the Southern Highlands.
Across two purposeful days, the leadership team strengthened their teamwork on the high ropes, supported one another through challenge activities and gave back, by planting new trees on the grounds. Alongside the fun and adventure, they spent time planning how they will serve our school community with humility and courage throughout the year ahead.
We are proud of the way they encouraged one another, stepped outside their comfort zones and began putting servant leadership into action. We look forward to seeing the impact they will make in 2026. ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Little leaders… fantastic .. so proud
This week, we celebrated the vibrant tapestry of cultures represented at our School, at Culture Fest. St Andrew's Cathedral School is blessed with an incredibly diverse community – with over 40 languages spoken in our Secondary School alone. This diversity is something we celebrate, with Culture Fest a chance for us to come together in a spirit of unity, appreciation and mutual respect.
Students showcased their creativity, leadership and cultural pride by running booths with interactive activities, cultural displays and international snacks. It was a wonderful opportunity to become immersed in the customs and history of different cultures while developing valuable leadership skills in a hands-on way.
As a school, we believe that every child is infinitely precious and unique, created in God’s image. Culture Fest serves as a reminder of the beauty of our differences, and the unity we share in our common humanity. We are grateful to all who made this event possible and for the incredible diversity that enriches our school community every day. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook