Courtney (far left) with some of her scholarship friends at the 2024 launch
With applications for the CSPD Teacher Scholarship Program now open, we thought it was the perfect time to check in with our 2024 scholarship recipients. Get to know some of our future teachers through our series of Q&A profiles over the coming weeks.
Courtney O’Reilly, Macquarie University, Bachelor of Secondary Education (RE & English)
Which schools (primary & secondary) did you attend?
I went to Mary Immaculate Primary Quakers Hill and then St John XXIII Stanhope Gardens for high school.
Why did you decide to study teaching?
People had always told me I would make a really good teacher, but it was having amazing English teachers in Year 11 & 12 that actually made the decision for me, because I wanted to inspire kids the same way those teachers inspired me.
What advice would you give to students who are thinking about applying for a CSPD Teacher Scholarship?
Do it! My friends and I all applied without too many expectations because this was new at the time and we all got in. It has been nothing but helpful. I know we are all so grateful for this opportunity.
What has been the best thing about being part of the scholarship program?
The associate teacher opportunities have been incredible. We are able to support the teachers and work with students at schools alongside 3rd year prac students. I’ve been able to run masterclasses with kids, mark and give feedback to some students’ short answer questions, and been given so much insight into what teaching is really like in such a short amount of time. It has been amazing.
Courtney O' Reilly
Have you had any practical teaching experiences or placements? If so, what do you enjoy most about working with students?
Yes, I have been lucky enough to get a job back at my old school, where I am getting heaps of exposure to teaching which has been awesome. I think what I enjoy most about the practical teaching experience so far is in the 10 weeks that I have been there, I can actually see students grow with certain content and skills which truly makes me feel so proud of them and excites me for the future.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of your studies?
Hanging out with friends, working and binge watching Wentworth!
What is your favourite memory from your own school experience?
Pilates with my favourite teacher before one of my practice exams to “destress”. Honestly it was the most fun and random experience ever!
Learn more about the CSPD Teacher Scholarship Program and apply for 2025
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
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10 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Congratulations to Olivia Hanlon who has been recognised by Zonta Club of The Blue Mountains and awarded the Deadly Futures scholarship for Year 12. Well done Liv! And thanks to the wonderful Sandra McMurtrie and all of the Zonta Club who support our women and girls. You can find out more about the work of Zonta by heading over to their Facebook page. Be sure to give them a 'like' and support their work where you can! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
10 Dec 2025
From Facebook
This morning Year 9 were treated to a presentation by Australian Olympian, Joshua Katz. Josh spoke of his journey with Judo, about setting goals and rising up to overcome disappointment. His presentation, part of the fantastic #OlympicsUnleashed program, inspired us all to set some goals and give them our best shot. Thanks Josh for sharing your story with us! Australian Olympic Team Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Judo Australia
Latest News More news
18 Dec 2025
Catholic schools across Western Sydney celebrate HSC success
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) is celebrating another outstanding year of Higher School Certificate (HSC) results as students from 22 secondary schools receive their results.
10 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Congratulations to Olivia Hanlon who has been recognised by Zonta Club of The Blue Mountains and awarded the Deadly Futures scholarship for Year 12. Well done Liv! And thanks to the wonderful Sandra McMurtrie and all of the Zonta Club who support our women and girls. You can find out more about the work of Zonta by heading over to their Facebook page. Be sure to give them a 'like' and support their work where you can! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
10 Dec 2025
From Facebook
This morning Year 9 were treated to a presentation by Australian Olympian, Joshua Katz. Josh spoke of his journey with Judo, about setting goals and rising up to overcome disappointment. His presentation, part of the fantastic #OlympicsUnleashed program, inspired us all to set some goals and give them our best shot. Thanks Josh for sharing your story with us! Australian Olympic Team Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Judo Australia
10 Dec 2025
From Facebook
We are incredibly proud to celebrate two of our outstanding students who have been recognised with NSW CCC Blue Awards for their exceptional achievements in sport. Keeden Harrison (Cross Country) and Nikolas Selby (Water Polo) have each demonstrated remarkable skill, leadership, determination, and sportsmanship throughout 2025. Their success at state and national levels, along with the integrity and commitment they show in representing our College and NSW Catholic Schools, is truly inspiring. Congratulations to both Keeden and Nikolas on this prestigious honour - a well-deserved recognition of their hard work and excellence in their respective sports. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
05 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Fifteen of our students headed to Bucklands Nursing Home this morning with Mr Badman, Mr Silvestrini and Nicky to share some Christmas cheer through song. Our Japanese exchange student, Ryoka, brought an extra touch of magic by gifting residents beautiful origami Christmas decorations - she hand-made more than 100! - along with crocheted stars lovingly created by staff and students. This is our third year visiting Bucklands to sing carols, and it’s a tradition that continues to bring so much joy to the residents. Our students absolutely love the experience too and always come away feeling uplifted and inspired. A heart-warming morning all round. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
04 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Did you catch this story in the Blue Mountains Gazette a couple of weeks ago? Since then, two of our incredible Year 7 students, Elsie Watson and Lucy Roberts (along with another friend), have powered through their goal of swimming 82 kilometres, twice the length of the Gaza Strip, in a remarkable act of solidarity and compassion. We are so proud to share that the girls have now completed every one of their kilometres and have raised an extraordinary $4,720 to support children in Gaza through UNICEF. Their determination, empathy and quiet leadership are truly inspiring. Congratulations to these young women for showing what can be achieved when courage meets kindness. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
04 Dec 2025
From Facebook
From 10 December 2025, some social media platforms will have to take steps to prevent Australians under the age of 16 from having an account. The age restrictions are intended to keep young people safe from digital harm. For many teens under 16, losing access to their social media accounts will be a challenging change and some young people may struggle to manage the period of transition. ReachOut Australia has put together the following guide to help families better understand how this change may affect teens' emotions and wellbeing, and to suggest some ways to support them. https://assets.ctfassets.net/qr4fhhcghyn4/4yyfkHRWvYgWp2pWFQwvzW/3a2c444404c7c35cd96ceb9e0e279355/Parents_Guide_to_SMMAR.pdf
02 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Yesterday our Year 12 Music 1 students immersed themselves in a full day of focused preparation for the HSC year ahead. They joined students from 14 other schools across the diocese for an HSC workshop, hosted by CAPTIVATE at Marian Catholic College, Kenthurst. The day began with a session on aural skills and performance practices. Students then moved into specialised workshops focusing on the elective strands: Composition, Musicology, and Performance. It was a highly productive and inspiring experience, filled with opportunities to connect with peers from across the diocese, share works in progress, receive valuable feedback, and gather new ideas as the students step confidently into their HSC year.
02 Dec 2025
From Facebook
St Columba’s band, The Bowerbirds, were crowned champions of this year’s CAPTIVATE Battle of the Bands competition! The pop four piece joined other bands from the Parramatta Diocese for the annual competition, held this year at Patrician Brothers College, Blacktown. Each band played two songs, showcasing incredible depth of talent and stage presence. The Bowerbirds delivered vibrant renditions of “Wannabe” by the Spice Girls and “HOT TO GO!” by Chappell Roan. Their strong camaraderie, evident passion for music, and polished professionalism combined to produce a standout performance. As the 2025 winners, each member of The Bowerbirds received a $50 gift voucher, and the band’s name will be engraved on the CAPTIVATE trophy. Congratulations to The Bowerbirds on a stellar achievement! We are already looking forward to the 2026 competition and are excited to see which bands will next represent St Columba’s.
01 Dec 2025
From Facebook
This weekend, our incredible Year 10 student Ellie Taylor showcased her talent, determination and school spirit on the big stage and we couldn’t be prouder! On Saturday, Ellie proudly represented St Columba’s at the NSW All Schools Championships at the Sydney International Regatta Centre. Wearing the St Columba’s zootie, she powered through challenging high-wind conditions to claim 1st place in the Division 1 Year 11 Schoolgirl event. Then on Sunday, rowing for her club Nepean at the NSW Sprint Championships, Ellie delivered a phenomenal performance, placing 1st in her single, double and quad events. Ellie’s dedication, resilience and passion for rowing are truly inspiring. The entire St Columba’s community is so proud of her sensational achievements. Congratulations, Ellie! You are a star on the water and a wonderful ambassador for our College! #StudentSuccess #RowingExcellence Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
28 Nov 2025
From Facebook
After a Baseball tournament in Canberra, Ryder Hall of Year 7 was selected in the Ozball's 2025 Aussie Baseball Team as a pitcher and shortstop. Throughout the year, he has represented Australia in two World Series tournaments in America. We are immensely proud of Ryder's hard work and dedication. #baseball Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
28 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Great to see our students out in the big, wide world exploring possible careers for the future. Well done Billy and thanks Merrick Property Group for supporting our students!