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Gilroy Catholic College Castle Hill

Spotlight on a Scholarship Student #1 - Teacher in the making!

26 Jul 2024

Teacher Scholarship Graduates
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.

Teacher Scholarship CSPD
Courtney O’Reilly

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

Achievements Careers Learning and Teaching

Written By

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au

  • Women's Trade Day Program at CathWest Innovation College

    07 Jul 2025

    Nexgen Women's Trade Day Program @ CathWest Loyola Campus
    Ready to explore a future in trades? We’re offering two hands-on training days designed especially for women and you can choose to attend one day or both!
    CathWest Innovation College

    07 Jul 2025

    Upskill Workshops @ CathWest Loyola Campus
    Use the Term 2 School Holidays 7 - 8 July for an opportunity to upskill for employment outcomes and develop skills in your passion area. Limited spaces are available!

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More News

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30 Jun 2025

From Facebook
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27 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Last week, our students were getting hands-on (and flour-covered!) in the Make It Bake It Challenge to celebrate National Archaeology Week! The challenge? Recreate an archaeological artifact or site using edible materials, a creative (and tasty) way to explore our ancient past! From Marie Antoinette to the Egyptian pyramids, students are connecting with history in a fun, unique and meaningful way. Because archaeology isn’t just about digging, it’s about curiosity, creativity, and understanding the stories that shaped our world. This challenge helps students engage with history beyond the textbook, encouraging research, innovation, and a whole lot of teamwork. We especially enjoyed taste-testing our delicious creations! Congratulations to Jack (Year 11) and Claudia (Year 12), who were the respective winners in our senior cohorts. #NationalArchaeologyWeek #MakeItBakeIt #HistoryYouCanEat #StudentCreativity #EdibleArchaeology

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26 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award – Practice Adventurous Journey 18th–20th June The largest group of Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award candidates from the College in many years successfully completed their Practice Adventurous Journey from the 18th to the 20th of June. Day 1 – Kayaking the Hawkesbury The journey began at the Deerubbun boat ramp in Mooney Mooney, where students carefully packed their gear into the hatches of their kayaks and received final briefings. From there, they paddled along the beautiful Hawkesbury River, navigating around the many oyster leases scattered throughout the waterway. A scenic stop for lunch at Back Beach, Fiddletown, offered a welcome break before the group continued on to Marramarra Creek in Marramarra National Park, where they set up camp before nightfall. Day 2 – Hiking Smugglers Ridge On the second day, students swapped paddles for hiking boots and embarked on a bushwalk along the Smugglers Ridge Track. The hike featured spectacular views and fascinating insights into the area’s natural and cultural heritage, making for a truly enjoyable and enriching experience. Day 3 – Paddling Home With the tides in mind, students set off early on the final morning, gliding through the morning mist as they made their way back along the Hawkesbury River to the boat ramp. From there, they returned to school, tired but proud. Congratulations to all participants on their achievement. The journey was a challenging yet rewarding experience, and a significant step towards completing the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award.

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25 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Last week, our talented Hospitality students hosted delighted College staff at recess and lunch, providing the perfect opportunity to showcase their growing skills in food preparation and service. The students created an exceptional experience, from beautifully presented food that tasted as good as it looked to warm, professional service delivered with a smile. This event not only left a lasting impression on staff but also served as a valuable learning experience for the students. It helped build their confidence and refine their skills as they move closer to their future careers in the hospitality industry. Well done to all involved!

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24 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Recently, Gilroy Catholic College Year 11 Biology students attended two Biology excursions. The first one was to Bobbin Head to learn about mangrove systems based on our topic of ecosystem dynamics, which got us to study the factors that impact a plant's change in different environments. The second one was to the Australian Museum, Botanical Gardens and a visit to Taronga Zoo to learn about biological diversity in animals and plants. The two days were very impactful and helped us to develop in-depth studies that are very important for our assessment, as well as gain more knowledge about scientific studies. Ella, Year 11.

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23 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Year 10 Sport Coaching and Year 11 Fitness students at Gilroy Catholic College recently completed the REVIVA First Aid course as part of their VET courses. The hands-on training equipped students with essential life-saving skills, including CPR, injury management, and emergency response procedures. This valuable certification not only enhances their understanding of health and safety in sporting and fitness environments but also prepares them for real-world scenarios where quick thinking and action can make a difference.

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23 Jun 2025

From Facebook
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20 Jun 2025

From Facebook
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20 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Each week throughout Terms 1 and 2, our Year 7 students are invited to give shoutouts to their peers and teachers, recognising those who have been a supportive and kind friend, helped with schoolwork, given great advice, shown excellent teamwork or sportsmanship, or made someone’s day better in some way. From these thoughtful nominations, one student is awarded the title of Champion of the Week, receiving a certificate at our Year 7 assembly and a chocolate prize in recognition of their positive impact. We continue to be impressed by the number of shoutouts we receive weekly, which highlights the strong sense of community and the value our students place on kindness and encouragement.

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19 Jun 2025

From Facebook

On Friday the 13th of June Gilroy came together to celebrate the amazing talents of our students. From singing and dancing to a ventriloquist, Gilroy's Got Talent had it all. It was more than just a showcase — it was a reminder of the talent, creativity, confidence, and community spirit that make our school so special. We celebrated what makes every student unique, and we are proud of every single performer!

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19 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Recently, Year 8 student Sasha competed in a prestigious national ballet competition. Out of more than 250 entrants, only 30 dancers were selected for the semifinals, and Sasha progressed even further, being named as one of only 10 finalists. Sasha was then awarded both an Australian Ballet School scholarship and the prestigious Nathan Coppen Award. This is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to Sasha’s commitment, discipline, and passion. Congratulations Sasha, on this wonderful achievement!

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18 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Gilroy Day – Friday 13 June | Part 3: Relaxing Lunch and Mr Whippy Upon returning to the College, staff and students were greeted by Mr Whippy vans for a special lunchtime treat. Everyone enjoyed a relaxing and enjoyable lunch before heading off to the much-anticipated “Gilroy’s Got Talent” show!

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18 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Last week, Gilroy Catholic College senior boys and girls OzTag teams competed in the Sutherland Shire OzTag regional competition. The girls played in a very competitive pool, including the top team. They gave it all they had, unfortunately missing out on finals, but were proud representatives of the College. The boys team finished the day undefeated, scoring the winning try on the buzzer in the grand final. They were crowned the Sutherland Shire Champions for 2025, earning themselves a ticket to the NSW Champions of Champions tournament on the central coast in August. Congratulations to both teams who were the embodiment of our College values.

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17 Jun 2025

From Facebook

Gilroy Day – Friday 13 June | Part 2: St Patrick’s Cathedral and Parramatta Park As shared in our earlier Gilroy Day post, the entire College community gathered for Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta—the spiritual heart of our Diocese. It was a privilege to celebrate the Eucharist in such a beautiful and significant setting. Our students demonstrated admirable reverence and participated with genuine enthusiasm, reflecting the values of our College. Following Mass, students and staff gathered across the road in Parramatta Park to share morning tea. Although the weather was crisp, the sun shone brightly, and the joy of the day warmed everyone’s spirits. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect as a community and reflect on the significance of the day in a more relaxed setting.

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17 Jun 2025

From Facebook

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