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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17 Jun 2026
Try a Career Day @ CathWest Loyola Campus
Year 10, are you curious about trying a career...? Register for CathWest's 'Try a Career Day' at the CathWest Loyola Campus!
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11 Jun 2026
From Facebook
This week's Blue Mountains Gazette features an article on 'Nurturing Breath', the beautiful sculpture by Terrance Plowright that has become a landmark within our College grounds. Positioned at the heart of our campus, it contributes so much to the visual landscape of the College and serves as a daily reminder of the values we seek to nurture in our community. At the very core of the Christian world view is the belief in a God of Love who is revealed in an ongoing way through the beauty and majesty all of creation. In the ancient scriptures of Judaism and Christianity, God’s Spirit is often experienced as a gentle breeze or a wind, a great creative force - the Breath of God. Terrance Plowright’s sculpture, ‘Nurturing Breath’ reminds us that God is present in each and every one of us and that our responsibility, our mission, is to nurture that presence of God and to allow the Holy Spirit to take hold of us, and to form and shape us. We encourage our community to take a moment to read the article and discover the story and symbolism behind this remarkable piece of public art. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Blue Mountains Gazette
09 Jun 2026
From Facebook
A huge lunchtime crowd gathered in the Quad today for the latest edition of The Feed, our popular careers and pathways series. We were delighted to welcome representatives from Macquarie University and University of Sydney who spent the lunch break chatting with students about university life, study options, pathways, and future career opportunities. Both stalls were absolutely swamped, with students asking thoughtful questions and taking away plenty of valuable information about what life at Macquarie and USYD has to offer. It was also especially wonderful to welcome back Emma Hyslop (St Columba’s Class of 2023), who returned to the College as a Student Ambassador for the University of Sydney. It is always rewarding to see our graduates sharing their experiences and helping inspire the next generation of students. A sincere thank you to all of our university representatives for generously giving their time and providing our students with such informative and engaging conversations. Your support helps our young people make informed decisions about their futures, and we are incredibly grateful. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
Latest News More news
11 Jun 2026
From Facebook
This week's Blue Mountains Gazette features an article on 'Nurturing Breath', the beautiful sculpture by Terrance Plowright that has become a landmark within our College grounds. Positioned at the heart of our campus, it contributes so much to the visual landscape of the College and serves as a daily reminder of the values we seek to nurture in our community. At the very core of the Christian world view is the belief in a God of Love who is revealed in an ongoing way through the beauty and majesty all of creation. In the ancient scriptures of Judaism and Christianity, God’s Spirit is often experienced as a gentle breeze or a wind, a great creative force - the Breath of God. Terrance Plowright’s sculpture, ‘Nurturing Breath’ reminds us that God is present in each and every one of us and that our responsibility, our mission, is to nurture that presence of God and to allow the Holy Spirit to take hold of us, and to form and shape us. We encourage our community to take a moment to read the article and discover the story and symbolism behind this remarkable piece of public art. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Blue Mountains Gazette
09 Jun 2026
From Facebook
A huge lunchtime crowd gathered in the Quad today for the latest edition of The Feed, our popular careers and pathways series. We were delighted to welcome representatives from Macquarie University and University of Sydney who spent the lunch break chatting with students about university life, study options, pathways, and future career opportunities. Both stalls were absolutely swamped, with students asking thoughtful questions and taking away plenty of valuable information about what life at Macquarie and USYD has to offer. It was also especially wonderful to welcome back Emma Hyslop (St Columba’s Class of 2023), who returned to the College as a Student Ambassador for the University of Sydney. It is always rewarding to see our graduates sharing their experiences and helping inspire the next generation of students. A sincere thank you to all of our university representatives for generously giving their time and providing our students with such informative and engaging conversations. Your support helps our young people make informed decisions about their futures, and we are incredibly grateful. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
08 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Tickets for Under the Spotlight are now on sale! Don't miss out on a fantastic night of music, dance, drama and song. Running for two nights only, the production will showcase the talent and creativity of students in Years 7 to 12. Purchase tickets online: https://www.bluemountainstheatre.com.au/what-s-on/season-2026/st-columbas/
03 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Our Year 7 students have arrived at The Great Aussie Bush Camp! Full of energy and excitement, they wasted no time and are already enjoying their first round of activities. We are seeing lots of smiles and friendships being made and strengthened.
02 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Tickets for Under the Spotlight are now on sale! Don't miss out on a fantastic night of music, dance, drama and song. Running for two nights only, the production will showcase the talent and creativity of students in Years 7 to 12. Purchase tickets online: https://www.bluemountainstheatre.com.au/what-s-on/season-2026/st-columbas/
27 May 2026
From Facebook
Today we were delighted to welcome student ambassadors Malini and Ashlee from UNSW to the College for The Feed in the Quad. The girls were fantastic, chatting with a huge number of students throughout lunchtime and sharing their experiences and insights about university life at UNSW. Our students asked some excellent questions and were genuinely excited to learn more about future study opportunities and pathways. A big thank you to Malini and Ashlee for their time, energy and enthusiasm. We really appreciate you visiting the College and inspiring our students. You are welcome back anytime! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
25 May 2026
From Facebook
National Reconciliation Week is held each year between 27 May and 3 June - these dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey – the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision respectively. This week at the College, staff are wearing "I'm in" buttons and a display in the library gives students lots to explore. We have the Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Innovate RAP available, the 'How to be a First Nations Ally' booklet from Amnesty International, and information from the Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation KBHAC. We have loads of books to read and even some First Nations artists Spotify recommendations. At St Columba's we are #AllInForReconciliation #NRW2026
22 May 2026
From Facebook
Last Friday, St Columba’s proudly celebrated Book Week in the very best way — with creativity, community spirit and plenty of fun! 📚✨ Students and staff embraced the occasion with incredible costumes and enthusiastic participation in our annual Book Week Parade. From classic literary characters to imaginative creations, the effort and joy on display made the day something truly special. We also enjoyed our annual "Book Themed Cake Competition' with some incredible and delicious creations. While Book Week is often associated with primary schools, it remains a much-loved tradition here at St Columba’s. It is wonderful to see our students and teachers continue to celebrate the joy of reading, storytelling and imagination together each year. Importantly, our Book Week celebrations also support a cause close to the College community — the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. Through this annual fundraiser, we help support access to culturally relevant books and literacy resources for children and communities across remote Australia. A huge thank you to everyone who participated, donated and helped make the day such a success. 📖 Donations to our Book Week Indigenous Literacy Foundation fundraiser via the QKR App will remain open until today for anyone still wishing to contribute. The Indigenous Literacy Foundation Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
20 May 2026
Blue Mountains teenagers dominate UTA11 races on day one
Blue Mountains teenagers Lulu Green and Odin Brennan claimed the first titles of the 2026 Ultra-Trail Australia last Thursday as they battled their way to victory in the UTAII (llkm).
19 May 2026
From Facebook
⭐SAVE THE DATE⭐ St Columba's Catholic College's annual celebration of the performing arts, Under the Spotlight, will be held on the evenings of 23 and 24 June at Blue Mountains Theatre, Springwood. Join us for a night of entertainment as we showcase the talent and creativity of students in Years 7 to 12. Tickets will go on sale soon.
19 May 2026
From Facebook
Congratulations to Chloe (Y10) on her selection for the 2026 NSWCCC 16 Girls Rugby League team! We wish her all the best at the Australian Championships, which will be held in Coffs Harbour in July.
17 May 2026
From Facebook
Odin Brennan! Lulu Green! Congratulations to you both. We are so proud of you both! Ultra-Trail Australia By UTMB UTA11 winners both from St Columba's Catholic College, Springwood Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese