Hundreds of Western Sydney students from Years 9 to 12 and some who recently graduated, joined teachers, parents, carers, and educators at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta for the Beyond School, What's Next? Careers Expo hosted by Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD).
The event attracted more than 25 organisations such as civil construction company Gamuda, TAFE NSW, Ambrose Early Learning School Aged Care, Mining Australia, multiple universities, Universities Admission Centre (UAC), the Australian Defence Force along with careers advisors, Registered Training Organisations, employment services, and CSPD's Teacher Scholarship team to name a few.
Whether transitioning into full-time employment, seeking further education, or sourcing a traineeship or apprenticeship, students had meaningful conversations with experts in their field to help point them in the right direction.
“That's one of the great things about being here is being able to give back to the community, meeting new friends, and making a difference to young people,” said a representative from Western Sydney University’s Student Engagement team.
“It's a great opportunity if you’re not sure what you want to do in the future. There are so many organisations here with programs and apprenticeships that you can come and apply to.”
There was something for every student, helping them explore career and study pathways they might like to consider after school.
Executive Director of Schools Jack de Groot and Director Communications & Engagement Elizabeth Scully chatted with students, parents, and exhibitors as they toured the stalls.
“It's a great opportunity for students to have conversations with employers, trade schools, universities, and lots of other training institutions that could help them with their future,” said Jack.
“It's been a great morning meeting people from all sorts of places that help students explore their passions and interests and they can also get employment as they work through a training program. You can even work for Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese as a trainee teacher while completing further studies. There are many great opportunities to explore what you want to do after school.”
CSPD’s Jarara Cultural Centre was also in attendance, presenting different opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
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Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
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24 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Today, our Year 10 students had the profound honour of spending time with three Kinchella Boys Home survivors; Uncle Bobby, Uncle Will and Uncle Terry, who generously shared their stories in a powerful truth-telling session. We express our deepest respect and gratitude to the Uncles for their courage, wisdom and strength. Their voices are vital in helping our young people understand the truth of our shared history and the importance of walking together towards healing and justice. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Gloria, Lesley and DJ for their support and guidance throughout the visit. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
24 Nov 2025
From Facebook
We are so proud to have two students representing our College at the 2025 Australian Athletics All-School Championships 4-7 December in Melbourne. Douglas Penecost (Year 9) in Discus and Tyson Verriere (Year 10) in Triple Jump To qualify, Douglas and Tyson achieved the following wonderful results; NSW Athletics All-Schools Championships Douglas - 3rd in Discuss (48.93m) and 6th in Shot Put (13.25m) Tyson - 2nd in Triple Jump (12.74m) and 6th in Long Jump (5.89m) NSWCCC Athletics Championships Douglas - 1st in Shot Put, Discus and Hurdles. He was awarded NSWCCC Age Champion for the second year in a row. Tyron - 1st in Triple Jump Good luck to both of you - we will be cheering you on from Springwood! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
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24 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Today, our Year 10 students had the profound honour of spending time with three Kinchella Boys Home survivors; Uncle Bobby, Uncle Will and Uncle Terry, who generously shared their stories in a powerful truth-telling session. We express our deepest respect and gratitude to the Uncles for their courage, wisdom and strength. Their voices are vital in helping our young people understand the truth of our shared history and the importance of walking together towards healing and justice. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Gloria, Lesley and DJ for their support and guidance throughout the visit. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
24 Nov 2025
From Facebook
We are so proud to have two students representing our College at the 2025 Australian Athletics All-School Championships 4-7 December in Melbourne. Douglas Penecost (Year 9) in Discus and Tyson Verriere (Year 10) in Triple Jump To qualify, Douglas and Tyson achieved the following wonderful results; NSW Athletics All-Schools Championships Douglas - 3rd in Discuss (48.93m) and 6th in Shot Put (13.25m) Tyson - 2nd in Triple Jump (12.74m) and 6th in Long Jump (5.89m) NSWCCC Athletics Championships Douglas - 1st in Shot Put, Discus and Hurdles. He was awarded NSWCCC Age Champion for the second year in a row. Tyron - 1st in Triple Jump Good luck to both of you - we will be cheering you on from Springwood! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
21 Nov 2025
From Facebook
The weather may have been cool this morning, but the welcome was warm for the St Columba’s Class of 2031! We’re delighted to host 250 Year 6 students from 38 primary schools - from Blackheath to Oxley Park and everywhere in between - as they join us for Orientation Day. Welcome to St Columba’s! #year6orientation #classof2031 Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
20 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Earlier this month four of our dedicated Year 9 students attend the Walk the Talk Awards night at Parliament House NSW. Women's Community Shelters addresses domestic and family violence, and our Year 9 students have learned that it takes a whole-of-community effort! Our students got to hear Hannah Tonkin, NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner, and Professor Steve Roberts from Monash University. A special thank you to Mr Born for taking the students to the awards night.
20 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Our Student Leaders spent a wonderful morning with our local Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman MP. Susan spoke with the group about leadership, life in the public eye, and the importance of remaining open to new opportunities throughout their career journeys. We are so grateful for the generous time she gave—answering all of their questions and offering thoughtful insights. She also met one-on-one with Tim, who this week was presented with the Susan Templeman Leadership in Action Award. We sincerely thank Susan for her ongoing support of St Columba’s and for investing in the leadership of our young people. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
19 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Our St Columba’s community is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Helen Redman, who taught History at St Columba’s Catholic College from 1981–2012. Helen was a gifted teacher, a generous colleague, and a dearly loved member of our community. Her warmth, wisdom, and enduring commitment to her students touched the lives of so many over more than three decades of service. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Helen’s family and all who knew and loved her, during this difficult time. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace.
18 Nov 2025
Western Sydney Catholic Schools hold the phone
Student mobile phone use will be banned across 80 Western Sydney Catholic schools from the beginning of the 2026 school year. The restriction presents a positive opportunity to enhance student outcomes, both in academic excellence and wellbeing.
16 Nov 2025
From Facebook
We are celebrating yet another OnSTAGE nomination for Audrey (who was also part of a group performance nomination), this time for her individual major work in Scriptwriting. This is a fantastic achievement - congratulations Audrey!
12 Nov 2025
From Facebook
St Columba's students Luciana and Rohan gathered with the local community at Springwood War Memorial on Tuesday to commemorate Remembrance Day. The students laid a wreath on behalf of the College to honour those who have given their lives in service. Lest we forget.
12 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Year 9 camp is off to a fabulous start! Our students are having a wonderful time challenging themselves with fun activities and spending time with their friends and teachers.
10 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Have a look at our Year 9 Elective Japanese students doing a wonderful job cooking yakisoba! This fun activity was the culmination of their unit of work on healthy eating and food habits in Japan.