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

12 Nov 2025
2026 Kindergarten Orientation
You are invited to the St Canice's 2026 Kindergarten Orientation! During this time, your child will have the opportunity to meet the other students, teaching staff and explore the learning spaces. Learn more.

07 Aug 2025
St Canice's Brekky Club
All students are invited to join the St Canice's Brekky Club. Brekky Club will now run on Thursdays – 7th, 21st, and 28th August.

FACEBOOK

10 Nov 2025
From Facebook
🌿 St Canice's Café – Parent Meeting ☕ Let’s Talk Wellbeing! Join us for a cuppa and a chat with our wellbeing counsellor about navigating change and new class transitions. We’ll also be discussing plans for student wellbeing in 2026, and we’d love your input! 📅 Wednesday 19th November 🕐 1:50pm Have something you’d like added to the agenda? Please email stcanices@parra.catholic.edu.au by Monday 17th November. #StCanices #ParentMeeting #Wellbeing #SchoolCommunity #TogetherForOurKids

04 Nov 2025
From Facebook
🌟 You’re Invited Tomorrow! 🌟 Wednesday 5 November | 9:30am – 11:00am Are you interested in learning more about what St Canice’s can offer your child? We’d love you and your family to join us for our Open Day! Our caring Catholic school is a wonderful place for children to learn, grow, and thrive. With a strong focus on academic excellence and wellbeing, we’re excited to welcome new families into our vibrant community. 📅 Date: Wednesday 5 November 2025 ⏰ Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM Come along to meet our dedicated teachers, ask your questions, and discover what makes St Canice’s so special. 👉 Register now to secure your spot: https://info.parra.catholic.edu.au/open-day/stcaniceskatoomba