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.
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
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
-
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.
30 Jul 2025
Little Lyrebirds Playgroup
Little Lyrebirds Playgroup is a FREE event for all little ones aged 0 - 6. Held at St Canice's Primary School every Wednesday of the school term, 9am-10:30am. Everyone is welcome.
-
30 Apr 2026
From Facebook
On Thursday, our FIAT (Faith In Action Team) gathered for the first time this term. 💛 Together, we spent time in prayer, giving thanks and reflecting on how we can continue to make a positive difference in our school community. The company was delightful, the conversations meaningful… and of course, the cupcakes were absolutely delicious! 🧁 We look forward to all that FIAT will bring this term as we continue to put our faith into action. ✨
29 Apr 2026
From Facebook
🌟 Is your child starting school in 2027? 🌟 Enrolments are now open at St Canice’s Primary School! In an exciting move to support families, St Canice’s is fee-free because we want families to choose the right education for their children without money being the deciding factor. At St Canice’s, excellence in education is at the heart of everything we do. From engaging classroom learning to enriching outdoor experiences, students thrive in a supportive and inspiring environment. 🌿 Set in a world heritage-listed location 🎶 Weekly music lessons & Conservatory of Music access 🏀 Spacious outdoor play areas, sandpits & basketball court 🤝 Strong community focus with inclusive programs St Canice’s is more than a school — it’s a place where children grow, belong, and flourish. 📞 Book a tour today: 4780 6800 📧 Email: stcanices@parra.catholic.edu.au ✨ Discover the difference at St Canice’s ✨
MORE NEWS
30 Apr 2026
From Facebook
On Thursday, our FIAT (Faith In Action Team) gathered for the first time this term. 💛 Together, we spent time in prayer, giving thanks and reflecting on how we can continue to make a positive difference in our school community. The company was delightful, the conversations meaningful… and of course, the cupcakes were absolutely delicious! 🧁 We look forward to all that FIAT will bring this term as we continue to put our faith into action. ✨
29 Apr 2026
From Facebook
🌟 Is your child starting school in 2027? 🌟 Enrolments are now open at St Canice’s Primary School! In an exciting move to support families, St Canice’s is fee-free because we want families to choose the right education for their children without money being the deciding factor. At St Canice’s, excellence in education is at the heart of everything we do. From engaging classroom learning to enriching outdoor experiences, students thrive in a supportive and inspiring environment. 🌿 Set in a world heritage-listed location 🎶 Weekly music lessons & Conservatory of Music access 🏀 Spacious outdoor play areas, sandpits & basketball court 🤝 Strong community focus with inclusive programs St Canice’s is more than a school — it’s a place where children grow, belong, and flourish. 📞 Book a tour today: 4780 6800 📧 Email: stcanices@parra.catholic.edu.au ✨ Discover the difference at St Canice’s ✨
22 Apr 2026
From Facebook
🍂 St Canice’s is back for Term 2! 🍂 As the leaves begin to change and the air takes on that crisp autumn feel, we’re excited to welcome our students and families back for another wonderful term of learning and growth. Wishing everyone a great start to Term 2! 🍁
22 Apr 2026
From Facebook
21 Apr 2026
From Facebook
Little Lyrebirds Playgroup is on tomorrow at 9am at St Canice’s! 🐦💛 We look forward to seeing you there for a fun morning of play, connection, and community.
15 Apr 2026
From Facebook
31 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Our students are on their way home from Camp Wedderburn! 🚌 Check out some more pics of the amazing adventures they’ve had along the way! From outdoor challenges to team activities, it’s been a camp full of fun, growth, and great memories. Please check your Compass Parent Portal for updates and further details regarding arrival time. We look forward to welcoming everyone back soon!
31 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Day 1 at camp has been full of fun and adventure! 🌿 Students have been busy enjoying tree climbing, team games, and making wonderful memories with their friends. Everyone is having a fantastic time and embracing all the exciting activities on offer! ⏰ Expected arrival time back at school will be confirmed later this afternoon via your Compass Parent Portal. Stay tuned for more updates! 😊
30 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Our students had an exciting time taking aim at archery today! 🏹 With great focus, determination, and plenty of encouragement from their peers, everyone gave it a go and celebrated their successes—whether hitting the target or simply trying something new. It was fantastic to see confidence grow with every shot! Camp continues to be filled with fun, challenge, and memorable experiences for all. 🌿
30 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Our students have arrived safely at camp and are already busy settling in and enjoying their first activities! 🏕️ There’s a great sense of excitement in the air as they begin this special experience together. We look forward to sharing more updates and photos over the coming days! 😊
30 Mar 2026
From Facebook
29 Mar 2026
From Facebook
On Monday, St Canice's Primary School proudly held our Annual Easter Hat Parade 🐣🎩 Students showcased their creativity with a wonderful array of colourful, imaginative and beautifully decorated hats. It was fantastic to see so much effort and enthusiasm, with each class bringing smiles to our community. A big thank you to our families for your support in helping create these amazing designs, and to our staff for organising such a joyful celebration. Wishing everyone a happy and blessed Easter ✝️🌸
25 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Our 'A for Awesome' Stage 2 Strings students were presented with their instruments, today. They have an amazing journey of musical discovery ahead of them. Look at those eager to learn faces! #LoveLiveLearn #StCanicesPrimary #stcanicesprimaryschool #cspdparramatta #captivatestringsprogram #strings #stcanicesmusic #LoveWhereYouLearn #year3strings
25 Mar 2026
From Facebook
💧 Living Water – A Holy Week Pilgrimage & Harmony Feast 💛 Today, our school community came together in a beautiful and meaningful way. Students journeyed on a pilgrimage through key moments of Holy Week, reflecting on Christ’s love and gaining a deeper understanding of the reality faced by communities around the world who walk daily for water. Following this, we gathered for our Harmony Feast, celebrating the rich diversity of our school by sharing food, culture, and connection. It was a joyful reminder of the strength found in unity and inclusion. 💛 Double Your Impact Today! Every online donation our school raises for Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion will be MATCHED, doubling the impact of your generosity. This Lent, St Canice’s Primary School – Katoomba is proud to stand in solidarity with communities experiencing poverty and hardship. Together, we can help provide access to clean water, healthcare, and safe shelter, while empowering people to build sustainable futures with dignity and hope. 💧 Every dollar truly makes a difference. 👉 Donate here: https://www.projectcompassion.org.au/fundraisers/stcanicesprimaryschoolkatoomba?utm_source=qr&utm_medium=print&fbclid=IwY2xjawQwMUVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFlUjZwNjBidjBkcVFLYVpYc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHuOuT2oSohlxYvkqA-hk-DIPhw5sgPG6z94PH1BBnw03Dsb1e9yzwWQY4pWb_aem_MYE9YV602lk4M8YHTSG8kg Thank you for standing with us this Lent — together, we can make a difference. #ProjectCompassion #CaritasAustralia #StCanices #LivingWater #Lent #MakeADifference #cspdparramatta
24 Mar 2026
700+ Unite for Project Compassion Big Water Walk
More than 700 students and staff from 23 schools across Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) came together for Caritas Australia’s Big Water Walk in support of Project Compassion. Beginning at Parramatta Park, students carried buckets of water along a 4km route, gaining a glimpse of the daily journey faced by people in developing communities, especially women and children, in search of clean water.