The Penrith Panthers' NRL Grand Final success owes much to the football factory that is Patrician Brothers College Blacktown. A sizable portion of the Premiership winning team hails from the CEDP school, renowned for turning schoolboys into superstars.
In this special report for 9 News, Patrician Brothers coach Greg Beecroft explains how players such as Stephen Crichton and Jerome Luai showed their talent at school and not just on the football field.
Greg also highlights how Spencer Leniu showed an impressive dedication to his learning alongside developing into an elite sportsman.
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01 Feb 2025
Catholic School Open Days
We are enrolling now! Attend your local Catholic school's Open Day to find out more.
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02 Sep 2025
From CSPD Facebook
π 2025 EDUCATION MASS AND MISSION EXPO HIGHLIGHTSπ Held at St Patrickβs Cathedral on the Feast of St Monica, schools gathered in faith and unity for the annual Education Mass. βͺοΈ βοΈ This special Mass brings together students, parents, Principals, Religious Education Coordinators and Diocesan Priests from across the community to honour their shared mission within the Church. Following the Mass, the Schoolsβ Mission Expo showcased the important work of Mission Agencies within the Parramatta Diocese, highlighting the various ways schools are actively engaged in mission work. π The interactive exhibits inspired curiosity, fostered connections and deepened the commitment to living out faith through action across our school communities. π€ See more from the day - full gallery and story here! π https://www.parra.catholic.edu.au/whats-on/latest-news/2025/09/01/06/36/celebrating-faith-learning-and-mission-at-2025-education-mass
03 Sep 2025
From CSPD Instagram
π©Ή LIFESAVING LESSONS π βοΈ Students from Chisholm Catholic Primary Bligh Park students participated in the First Aid for Kids program delivered by St Johns Ambulance. This valuable initiative gave students a chance to step into the shoes of a first responder, learning how to stay calm, act fast, and help others in emergencies. πͺ π The program was a wonderful opportunity for students to receive hands-on learning about the essential and potentially life saving first aid skills. Students learnt how to:Through engaging, hands-on activities, students gained vital first aid knowledge, including how to: π€ Recognise emergency situations π Call Triple Zero (000) for help π©Ό Provide care for common injuries These are more than just classroom lessons, theyβre real-life skills that can make a big difference. π Chisholm Catholic Primary is committed to improving student wellbeing and empowering students to develop practical skills, visit their website to learn more! @chisholmcp #cspd2025 #catholicschoolsparramattadiocese #parracatholic #westernsydney #firstaid #firstaidtraining
02 Sep 2025
From CSPD Instagram
β¨OPENING NEW DOORS!β¨ The school community at Gilroy Catholic College Castle Hill marked a memorable milestone as they celebrated the official Opening & Blessing of their new Research and Creative Learning Centre! π« πThe ceremony was led by the Most Rev Vincent Long Van Nguyen, Bishop of Parramatta, and brought together a range of special guests, including representatives from CSPD, Reitsma Construction, Stanton Dahl Architects, Area3 Project Management, local and state government and the schoolβs parent council. π What a special celebration to mark the beginning of exciting new learning opportunities in these inspiring new spaces! π« @gilroycathcoll #cspd2025 #catholicschoolsparramattadiocese #parracatholic #westernsydney #openingandblessing #newfacilities
01 Sep 2025
Celebrating Faith, Learning and Mission at 2025 Education Mass
Students, parents and carers, educators and clergy from Catholic schools across the Diocese of Parramatta gathered in a spirit of unity and celebration for the 2025 Education Mass on Wednesday 27 August.
01 Sep 2025
From CSPD Instagram
In VET "we don't just learn, we prepare for the real world!"π·π¨βπ³π©βπΌ Check out some of the brilliant videosπ€©πΉ submitted by students for the CSPD National Skills Week Competition - showcasing the fantastic real world skills and experience that make VET subjects so popular.ππ Business Services, Primary Industries, Hospitality, Entertainment and so much more... there's so many wonderful opportunities helping students build their future.π§βπΎπ©βπ€π©βπ»π©βπ³ Congratulations to all the students who entered the CSPD National Skills Week Competition - the judges were impressed by the great standard of all the entries. @nationalskillsweek @carolinechisholmglenmorepark @stlukesmp @catherinemcauleywestmead @gilroycathcoll , @stjohnxxiiicatholiccollege, @mariancatholiccollege @columbasdoves, @patsblacktown @xavierllandilo @cerdon.college @santasophiacc @penolaemuplains @stclareshassallgrove @stpatsdundas Find out more about VET opportunities π link in bio. #SkillsWeek #VETinSchools #FutureReady #NationalSkillsWeek #cspd2025 #catholicschoolsparramattadiocese #parracatholic #westernsydney #vocationaleducationandtraining #tradetraining #secondaryeducationpathways #CSPD #bluemountainsnsw #parracatholic
01 Sep 2025
From CSPD Instagram
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese mourns the loss of former Executive Director of Schools Greg Whitby AM KSG. Diocese of Parramatta Bishop Vincent Long has shared a moving tribute to Greg here: https://catholicoutlook.org/vale-to-greg-whitby-am-former-executive-director-of-catholic-education/ Greg led our organisation, then known as Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta, from 2006 to 2022. He will be remembered fondly, including for his dedication to making a difference to the lives of children and young people across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains through education. Not only was Greg our leader, he was also one of our own: a graduate of St Monica's North Parramatta as well as a former Principal of Emmaus Catholic College Kemps Creek. A larger-than-life character, his championship of change and innovation was a source of inspiration. He leaves an extraordinary legacy of thought-leadership and advocacy that continues to serve Catholic schools in the Parramatta Diocese today. CSPD gives thanks for Gregβs life and leadership. He will be remembered for his courage, vision and passion, which will live on through the generations of educators he has inspired. We share our sincerest sympathies with Gregβs wife Sue, their children Matthew, Alexandra and Sophie, his grandchildren, and extended family at this very sad time. Eternal rest grant unto Greg, O Lord. May perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen. #cspd2025
31 Aug 2025
From CSPD Facebook
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese mourns the loss of former Executive Director of Schools Greg Whitby AM KSG. Diocese of Parramatta Bishop Vincent Long has shared a moving tribute to Greg here: https://catholicoutlook.org/vale-to-greg-whitby-am-former-executive-director-of-catholic-education/ Greg led our organisation, then known as Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta, from 2006 to 2022. He will be remembered fondly, including for his dedication to making a difference to the lives of children and young people across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains through education. Not only was Greg our leader, he was also one of our own: a graduate of St Monica's North Parramatta as well as a former Principal of Emmaus Catholic College Kemps Creek. A larger-than-life character, his championship of change and innovation was a source of inspiration. He leaves an extraordinary legacy of thought-leadership and advocacy that continues to serve Catholic schools in the Parramatta Diocese today. CSPD gives thanks for Gregβs life and leadership. He will be remembered for his courage, vision and passion, which will live on through the generations of educators he has inspired. We share our sincerest sympathies with Gregβs wife Sue, their children Matthew, Alexandra and Sophie, his grandchildren, and extended family at this very sad time. Eternal rest grant unto Greg, O Lord. May perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
31 Aug 2025
From CSPD Instagram
TOOLS, TALENT & TASTES OF THE FUTURE! π§ππ° CathWest Innovation College Mt Druitt was buzzing with energy as 59 enthusiastic Year 6 students from St Aidan's Primary Rooty Hill, visited for the Junior Skills Quest as part of National Skills Week! β¨ Students got hands-on experience and explored real-world learning in two of the following workshops: π§ Carpentry: sanding, varnishing and decorating boomerangs with Aboriginal-inspired designs π¨ Hospitality: blending milkshakes and decorating cupcakes - plus a St Aidan's student first-ever milkshake moment! π₯ Screen & Media: performing with green screen magic in space and ocean-themed scenes β½ Fitness: getting active with volleyball, soccer and chats with CathWest fitness students π Hairdressing: trying out curling techniques (some natural stylists in the making!) The day ended on a high with a sausage sizzle, a showcase of the green screen videos and a CathWest goodie bag! π π An unforgettable day celebrating National Skills Week, creativity and future pathways! π Ready to learn differently? Discover how CathWest empowers students through authentic, hands-on learning. Visit their website to find out more. @cathwestinnovation @staidansprimaryrootyhill #cspd2025 #catholicschoolsparramattadiocese #parracatholic #westernsydney #nationalskillsweek #handsonlearning
30 Aug 2025
From CSPD Facebook
πFORMER STUDENT HITS THE NRL STAGE!π We're thrilled to celebrate Patrician Brothers' College, Blacktown Class of 2024 graduate, Jacob Halangahu, who had officially made his NRL debut for the St George Illawarra Dragons! ππ Throughout his school years, Jacob was a standout both on and off the field - a natural leader with an unshakeable work ethic. His rugby league journey at school was nothing short of outstanding: π Debuted in the school's NRL Schoolboy Cup Team π Led the team to a State Championship title as captain in 2024 π Collected two national championships with NSWCCC π Represented the Australian Schoolboys twice - captaining the side in 2024 What an inspiring journey! π Congratulations Jacob, we canβt wait to see your next chapter unfold! π€©π
30 Aug 2025
From CSPD Instagram
π―π¦ WATER WAY TO RAISE FUNDS! π―π¦ Santa Sophia Catholic College Gables turned up the fun and soaked the staff in one unforgettable fundraising event! π More than 50 students lined up to dunk their favourite teachers in a day full of laughter, splashes and school spirit! The result? An incredible $32,000 raised for the school community during their Glowtastic Fundraiser! π π Hats off to the brave teachers who got drenched for a great cause, your dedication (and school spirit) made it a SPLASH-tacular day to remember! @santasophiacc #cspd2025 #catholicschoolsparramattadiocese #parracatholic #westernsydney #schoolfundraising
29 Aug 2025
From CSPD Facebook
π©ΉβοΈ READY, SET RESPOND! π Students from Chisholm Catholic Primary Bligh Park students participated in the First Aid for Kids program facilitated by St John Ambulance, an important initiative that equips students with the knowledge and confidence to respond in emergency situations. π€ π This hands-on learning experience gave students the opportunity to develop essential, and potentially life-saving, first aid skills. Students learnt how to: π€ Recognise emergency situations π Call Triple Zero (000) for help π©Ό Provide basic care for common injuries What a incredible way to build practical skills and gain the confidence to act in a crisis! π Chisholm Catholic Primary is committed to student wellbeing and empowering students with real-world skills that make a difference. Click here to learn more πhttps://www.chisholmblighpark.catholic.edu.au/school-life/student-wellbeing
29 Aug 2025
From CSPD Instagram
π€ FROM SCHOOL STAGE TO THE VOICE SPOTLIGHT πΆβ¨ St Paulβs Catholic College Greystanes, was thrilled to welcome back former student Joseph Vuicakau (Class of 2006), who is currently competing on this yearβs season of The Voice Australia, after impressively turning all four chairs during his blind audition! π Josephβs return to St Paulβs was a proud moment for the entire school community, who were delighted to welcome him back for the schoolβs Creative Arts Night. βΊοΈThe school shared some special footage of Josephβs performances from his student days, bringing back plenty of memories and smiles! It was a wonderful opportunity for Joseph to reflect on where his musical journey began, reconnect with his former music teacher, Mr Cincotta, and inspire current students to work hard and follow their dreams.ππ Letβs rally behind Joseph as he continues to shine on The Voice! πΊ @joseph.vmusic @stpaulscollegegreystanes #cspd2025 #catholicschoolsparramattadiocese #parracatholic #westernsydney #cspdalumni #thevoiceau
28 Aug 2025
From CSPD Facebook
π§ππ° TOOLS, TALENTS & TASTY TREATS! π§ππ° CathWest Innovation College Mt Druitt was thrilled to host 59 Year 6 students from St. Aidan's Primary School, Rooty Hill for the Junior Skills Quest as part of National Skills Week! β¨ Students got a taste of the exciting learning opportunities at CathWest by getting hands-on in two of the following workshops: π¨ Carpentry: sanding, varnishing and decorating boomerangs with Aboriginal art π§ Hospitality: making milkshakes & decorating cupcakes (one student even tried their very first milkshake!) π₯ Screen & Media: acting in front of a green screen with space/ocean themes β½ Fitness: volleyball, soccer & chats with our CathWest fitness students π Hairdressing: curling hair like pros (some serious natural talent at St Aidan's!) The day wrapped up with teachers and students enjoying a sausage sizzle, a screening of the students' media clips and a CathWest goodie bag for everyone! π What a fantastic way to celebrate National Skills Week! π π CathWest offers learning like you've never experienced before. Click here to discover how students develop real-world skills for success through relevant student-driven learning. https://cathwest.parra.catholic.edu.au/about/why-us
28 Aug 2025
From CSPD Instagram
π Join us as we head to the 2025 EDUCATION MASS & MISSION EXPO! Held at St Patrickβs Cathedral on the Feast of St Monica, schools gathered in faith and unity for the annual Education Mass. βͺοΈ βοΈ The Education Mass is a special occasion for school communities to come together with Principals, Parents, Religious Education Coordinators and Diocesan Priests to celebrate their shared mission within the Church. The Schoolsβ Mission Expo was held at the conclusion of the Mass, highlighting the work of Mission Agencies in the Parramatta Diocese and the various opportunities schools are engaged in. The interactive displays sparked curiosity, connection and a deeper commitment to faith in action across our school communities. ππ€ Thank you to all who made this day of celebration, learning and mission possible! π #cspd2025 #catholicschoolsparramattadiocese #parracatholic #westernsydney #educationmass #missionexpo
27 Aug 2025
From CSPD Facebook
π±π©βπΎπ AG CLUB IN ACTION! π±π©βπΎπ The amazing Ag Club students from Caroline Chisholm College Glenmore Park have been hard at work getting show-ready for the Penrith Show! π π₯ πΎ From feeding and grooming animals to weeding paddocks, planting crops and preparing their displays, these dedicated students have gone above and beyond to make their school farm shine.π π With show day approaching, the Ag Club canβt wait to celebrate their efforts and share their love for agriculture beyond the school gates! π π Click here to learn more about Caroline Chisholm Collegeβs unique agriculture spaces, where students gain hands-on experience in farming, horticulture, animal care and stewardship. https://www.cccglenmorepark.catholic.edu.au/about/facilities-and-resources π±π