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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Latest News More news
01 Jul 2025
From Facebook
๐ Today at school we celebrated culture through dance! ๐๐บ South Asian Cultural Dance Workshop facilitated by the talented Avani ๐โจ Students had the chance to learn traditional moves and embrace the vibrant rhythms of South Asian culture ๐ถ๐ A huge thank you to Avani for sharing her passion and energy with us โ what a fantastic way to connect, move, and celebrate diversity! ๐
30 Jun 2025
From Facebook
๐งต๐ฉโ๐ณ TEXTILES UPDATE! ๐จโ๐ณ๐งต Our talented Year 7 Textiles students have been hard at work designing and making aprons as part of their latest project! ๐จโ๏ธ The design brief challenged them to create an apron suitable as PPE for use in the kitchen โ a practical and creative task that required them to follow the full Design Process, from initial ideas through to evaluation. While most of the class is nearly there, three students have already finished their aprons right on time โ check out their amazing work in the photos attached! ๐๐๐ These aprons wonโt just sit on a hanger โ theyโll be put to good use in Year 8 Food Tech next year! ๐ณ๐ฅ So proud of the effort and creativity shown by all students so far โ canโt wait to see the rest completed! ๐
27 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Students from the ACU Ubuntu program attended the ACU Blacktown Campus. They have engaged in an 8 week academic skills program to support them with successfully accessing the ACU Step Up Program next year. These University outreach opportunities are thanks to Carol Allen and Youssef Taouk, who continue to find opportunities to advocate for Sudanese and Refugee communities. We thank them for their tireless work and look forward to seeing the impact this program has on the future aspirations and self-efficacy of our young people.
26 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Congratulations Savannah Tofaeono on your selection for the Australian Schoolgirls Rugby League Trials taking place in Townsville. Savannah is one of St Agnesโ very own talented Rugby League players. Her progress over the past few years has been incredible, and what she has accomplished in the world of Rugby League is truly inspiring. Savannahโs accomplishments on the field are impressive. She has been a key player for the St Agnes Rugby League team in the Panther Trophy competition over the past few years. Last season, she played a major role in helping our U16s girls team win the tournament despite playing one player short in every game, all while she was just 15 years old. This year, Savannah has participated in several representative trials, earning selection for the Parramatta Diocese team and subsequently the NSWCCC side. To help Savannah out on this huge achievement to get her to Townsville, we are asking for donations in the form of a gold coin or via the QKR App. So give generous if you can. Good luck Savannah!!! We are all cheering for you.
26 Jun 2025
From Facebook
โจ๐Congratulations Savannah Tofaeono on your selection for the Australian Schoolgirls Rugby League Trials taking place in Townsville. ๐ Savannah is one of St Agnesโ very own talented Rugby League players. Her progress over the past few years has been incredible, and what she has accomplished in the world of Rugby League is truly inspiring. Savannahโs accomplishments on the field are impressive. She has been a key player for the St Agnes Rugby League team in the Panther Trophy competition over the past few years. Last season, she played a major role in helping our U16s girls team win the tournament despite playing one player short in every game, all while she was just 15 years old. This year, Savannah has participated in several representative trials, earning selection for the Parramatta Diocese team and subsequently the NSWCCC side. To help Savannah out on this huge achievement to get her to Townsville, we are asking for donations in the form of a gold coin or via the QKR App. So give generously if you can. Good luck Savannah!!! We are all cheering for you.
26 Jun 2025
From Facebook
๐ง๐ Bubble Tea Fundraiser Success! ๐๐ง Weโre thrilled to share that our recent bubble tea fundraiser was a huge success! ๐ฅณ Thanks to your incredible support! ๐ And a special shout-out to our amazing volunteers!
26 Jun 2025
From Facebook
๐โจ Support Our St Agnes Superstars! โจ๐ Weโre so proud to have 3 amazing students, Nate, Savannah, and Mia, representing St Agnes as they prepare for the Sploove and Spliced Showcase in Arizona! ๐ To help make this exciting opportunity possible, the dance company is holding a special fundraiser, and weโd love for you to show your support. Every contribution will go towards helping Nate, Savannah, and Mia shine on stage as they compete overseas. Letโs rally behind them as a community and help them take this well-earned chance to the next level! Tickets are available on the link below.
25 Jun 2025
From Facebook
On the 12th of June, our school captains Angela and Ethan, alongside our Mission Leader Ruby, had the privilege of attending the LIFTED Leaders Bishopโs Breakfast. The morning featured an engaging keynote speaker who explored the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence on both society and faith. It was a valuable opportunity for our students to connect with other school leaders, members of the Catholic Church, and Jack De Groot, Executive Director of Schools. Through meaningful dialogue and shared insights, our student leaders came away inspired and empowered to lead positive change within our school and across the wider diocese
24 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Year 7 HSIE just wrapped up their deep dive into Ancient Rome and China! ๐๏ธ๐ From virtual museums to self-directed projects, they explored emperors, inventions, and everything in between. Super proud of the curiosity and creativity they brought to every lesson!
24 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Project Elevate; the ๐๐ซ๐๐ 10-week Adult Learn to Swim program that is being held at Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre commencing Term 3. Classes are limited and have a minimum attendance requirement.
23 Jun 2025
From Facebook
๐งฑ Year 12 Construction โ Concreting in Action! On 5 June, our Year 12 Construction students at St Agnes Catholic High School rolled up their sleeves and got hands-on with a concreting project for the school garden beds. As part of their Set in Stone unit, students applied skills from their courseworkโmeasuring, levelling, and pouring concreteโto create slabs that will be used by the Environmental Committee. The weather held out, and the teamwork was fantastic. A great example of classroom learning coming to life!
20 Jun 2025
From Facebook
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