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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11 May 2026
From Facebook
Today’s Feed in the Quad was a little different, with not one, but two organisations visiting the College to speak with students about their future pathways. We welcomed Josh, Zack and Lincoln from SEDA, who shared information about SEDA’s Double Diploma program and the unique opportunities it offers students interested in sport, business and hands-on learning pathways. We also welcomed Gen and Wael from Western Sydney University, who spoke with students about everything they need to know about studying at Western — from courses and campus life to university pathways and support services. It was fantastic to see so many students engaging so positively throughout the lunchtime session, asking thoughtful and insightful questions about their future options. A big thank you to SEDA and Western Sydney University for taking the time to visit the College and connect with our students today. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
10 May 2026
From Facebook
Year 11 Health and Movement Science students were fortunate to welcome Glenbrook physiotherapist Tony Larven to St Columba’s this week as part of their Collaborative Investigation project. With more than 30 years’ experience in sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapy, Tony led an engaging practical workshop on biomechanics, giving students valuable insight into injury prevention, movement, rehabilitation and performance. Tony has worked extensively in elite sport, including more than 20 years with the Australian Olympic Canoe Slalom program and 17 seasons with the Penrith Panthers. Students greatly appreciated the opportunity to learn from someone with such a wealth of professional experience and expertise. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
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From Facebook
Today’s Feed in the Quad was a little different, with not one, but two organisations visiting the College to speak with students about their future pathways. We welcomed Josh, Zack and Lincoln from SEDA, who shared information about SEDA’s Double Diploma program and the unique opportunities it offers students interested in sport, business and hands-on learning pathways. We also welcomed Gen and Wael from Western Sydney University, who spoke with students about everything they need to know about studying at Western — from courses and campus life to university pathways and support services. It was fantastic to see so many students engaging so positively throughout the lunchtime session, asking thoughtful and insightful questions about their future options. A big thank you to SEDA and Western Sydney University for taking the time to visit the College and connect with our students today. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
10 May 2026
From Facebook
Year 11 Health and Movement Science students were fortunate to welcome Glenbrook physiotherapist Tony Larven to St Columba’s this week as part of their Collaborative Investigation project. With more than 30 years’ experience in sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapy, Tony led an engaging practical workshop on biomechanics, giving students valuable insight into injury prevention, movement, rehabilitation and performance. Tony has worked extensively in elite sport, including more than 20 years with the Australian Olympic Canoe Slalom program and 17 seasons with the Penrith Panthers. Students greatly appreciated the opportunity to learn from someone with such a wealth of professional experience and expertise. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
05 May 2026
From Facebook
We were delighted to welcome the Year 6 students and teachers from St Thomas Aquinas Primary School Springwood yesterday to visit the St Columba's Art Prize exhibition. Our visitors engaged thoughtfully with the artworks, showing great respect and curiosity throughout. It was wonderful to hear the insightful questions being asked as students explored the exhibition. A special mention to Francesca, who shared a particularly perceptive observation about 'Mano Po', an artwork by a Year 11 student from Nagle College, Blacktown South . It is fantastic seeing students from across Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese connecting through art. Thank you to staff and students from Tommies for visiting - we loved having you!
04 May 2026
From Facebook
Thanks and thanks and ever thanks to the amazing crew at Belle Property Lower Blue Mountains - We LOVE having you as our Youth Prize Major Sponsor. Thank you for your generosity and genuine enthusiasm for the St Columba's Art Prize. We could not be more grateful!
02 May 2026
From Facebook
Be like Susan Templeman MP - Visit the St Columba's Art Prize this weekend - open Saturday and Sunday 10am - 3pm. We can't wait to welcome you - straight up the driveway and through the arch into the quad.
26 Apr 2026
From Facebook
We have had a great start in Agriculture in Term 2. Our dairy cross calves for Penrith show have arrived. Students will be caring for them and preparing them for the show ring in August. On Friday we took a team of 13 students to the Hawkesbury show for the Cattle judging competition. Three year 8 students made it into the speaking final, with some great results: Frank coming 1st, Emily 3rd and Seth 5th in the 11-14 years final.
26 Apr 2026
From Facebook
We have had a great start in Agriculture in Term 2. Our dairy cross calves for Penrith show have arrived. Students will be caring for them and preparing them for the show ring in August. On Friday we took a team of 13 students to the Hawkesbury Show for the cattle judging competition. Three Year 8 students made it into the speaking final, with some great results: Frank coming 1st, Emily 3rd and Seth 5th in the 11-14 years final. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
24 Apr 2026
From Facebook
This time next week! We can’t wait until the St Columba's Art Prize opens - what about you?
21 Apr 2026
From Facebook
Congratulations to Alexander (Y12) on his selection in the NSW All Schools Cricket team. We wish him all the best as he competes in the Australian All Schools Cricket Championships next week in Maroochydore, Queensland.
15 Apr 2026
From Facebook
Congratulations Amelie (Y7) on winning a silver medal at the Australian Little Athletics Championships in Brisbane! Amelie competed against the best young athletes in Australia, finishing in second place in the under 12 girls 80m hurdles and fourth place in the under 12 girls long jump. What a fantastic achievement!
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