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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26 Jun 2026
From Facebook
⚽ St Canice’s joined the rest of the nation today as we proudly cheered on our mighty Socceroos in their World Cup clash against Paraguay! Students came together dressed in green and gold, enjoying the excitement of the match and showing plenty of Aussie spirit as we supported our team. 💚💛 A special thank you to our wonderful Stage 1 students who prepared some delicious themed treats for everyone to enjoy as part of the celebration. ✨ What a fantastic way to come together, celebrate sport, teamwork and national pride. Go Socceroos! 🙌 #GoSocceroos #WorldCupSpirit #StCanices

24 Jun 2026
From Facebook
⚽💚💛 Go Australia! World Cup Fever at St Canice’s! 💛💚⚽ This Friday, St Canice’s is excited to cheer on Australia as they take on Paraguay in the World Cup Soccer Match! 🔥 Our students will be watching the first half of the match in their classrooms as we come together to support the Aussies. Students are invited to wear a splash of green and gold to show their team spirit! 💚💛 To make the celebration even more special, our wonderful Stage 1 students will be preparing a fun treat for everyone to enjoy. ✨ We understand that big events can feel different for every child, so there will also be a quiet space available with alternative craft activities for students who would prefer a calmer environment. 🎨🌈 It’s shaping up to be a fantastic day of fun, community spirit, and cheering on the Socceroos together! #GoAustralia #WorldCup2026 #StCanicesKatoomba #SchoolSpirit #GreenAndGold #CSPD