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
-
![CathWest Innovation College]()
24 Jun 2025
Try a Career Day @ CathWest McCarthy Campus
Year 10, are you curious about trying a career...? Register for CathWest's 'Try a Career Day' at the CathWest McCarthy Campus!![CathWest Innovation College]()
01 Jul 2025
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!![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!
Instagram | Gilroy
More News
12 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Gilroy Catholic College Year 9 student Ashton, competed at the Gymnastics State Championships last weekend and won his division, making him the Level 7 Trampoline State Champion. He will go on to represent NSW at the National Championships on the Gold Coast in July. This is a wonderful comeback story for Ashton. He had a complicated knee injury which kept him out of action for two years, only returning to training in February this year. Congratulations on this amazing achievement Ashton!
12 Jun 2025
From Facebook
In the third module of the Interfaith Dialogue Program, students from Gilroy Catholic College and the Australian Islamic College took part in meaningful visits to both Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Kellyville and the Auburn Gallipoli Mosque. Facilitated by Catholic Mission, the Interfaith Dialogue Program promotes cooperative interactions among people of different religions, faiths, and spiritual beliefs. The program is designed to foster mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration, with the broader goal of encouraging peace and tolerance in our diverse society. These visits provided students with the opportunity to experience the sacred spaces, practices, and perspectives of both Catholic and Islamic traditions. Through open dialogue and shared experiences, students gained deeper insights into each other’s beliefs and values—laying the foundation for lasting interfaith friendships and a more harmonious future.
11 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Last week, the Gilroy Catholic College Silver Duke of Edinburgh students attended a route planning session for their upcoming Adventurous Journey, Route planning involves detailed preparation and consideration of various factors, including the journey's purpose, location, duration, and potential risks. Students are required to create a plan that addresses navigation, time management, and safety, ensuring the team is prepared for the challenges ahead.
11 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Music students and members of the Gilroy College Choir travelled to St Patrick's Cathedral Parramatta to rehearse Mass music repertoire in preparation for the Gilroy Day College Mass.
10 Jun 2025
From Facebook
06 Jun 2025
From Facebook
This week the Rotary Club of Castle recognised Chalon Robinson as the recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award for her exemplary service to students, staff, and the wider Gilroy Catholic College community. Chalon has contributed meaningfully to the school over many years, initially in her role as Year Coordinator and, more recently, as the Instructional Leader – Positive Behaviour. In both positions, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to student wellbeing, academic engagement, and the development of positive, inclusive learning environments. For her deep commitment to student support, her collaborative leadership, and her ongoing contribution to staff development and school culture, we congratulate Chalon Robinson on receiving the Rotary Club of Castle Hill Excellence in Teaching Award.
06 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Last week, Gilroy Catholic College Years 7–9 girls competed in the PDSSSC Football Gala Day. The team played exceptionally well throughout the tournament, winning all of their group stage matches taking them to the Grand Final. They emerged victorious, securing a 2-0 scoreline! Throughout the day, the girls displayed exceptional teamwork, determination, skill, and a fantastic attitude and are now set to represent PDSSSC at the NSWCCC Knockout Competition! Congratulations on this great achievement girls!
04 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Congratulations to Gilroy Catholic College Year 10 student Alyssa, who has been selected in the 18s NSWCCC Netball team, playing above her age group. This is a fantastic achievement, well done Alyssa!
04 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Recently, Gilroy Catholic College Year 11 Physics students attended an excursion to Luna Park as part of a depth study covering the Kinematics and Dynamics modules. Students experienced centripetal and centrifugal forces, friction, gravitational and kinetic energy, reflection, refraction and inelastic collisions while riding iconic attractions such as the Rotor, the Dodgems, the Big Dipper and the Ferris wheel. The tasks completed by students during the day will be used as part of their next assessment.
03 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Gilroy Catholic College Year 12 student Nathan recently represented the Parramatta Diocese at the 18 years trials for NSWCCC Rugby League. He successfully made the NSWCCC team and is the first Gilroy student to make this team. Congratulations Nathan, on this tremendous achievement!
03 Jun 2025
From Facebook
Gilroy Catholic College ILPB students are making a difference! 💙 As part of their commitment to giving back, they’ve been busy making sandwiches and writing heartfelt, positive messages to include in care packages for those experiencing homelessness. In partnership with St Vincent de Paul, our students are learning the power of kindness, empathy, and community. #ILPB #GivingBack #Vinnies #KindnessInAction #StudentWellbeing
02 Jun 2025
From Facebook
02 Jun 2025
From Facebook
On Tuesday and Wednesday last week, four Gilroy Catholic College Students represented the Parramatta Diocese at the NSWCCC soccer championships and selections. Alec - Year 12 Angelina - Year 12 Kahtia - Year 12 Mila - Year 9 Alec and the Parramatta Blue team put in a strong effort, coming away with 2 wins and 2 losses, finishing third in their pool. Angelina has represented the diocese for 4 straight years, and emerged as a leader of the squad, with her positive attitude and encouragement of other players. Kahtia finished as the leading goal scorer and demonstrated the important role she played in the team. Mila Stribl, one of the younger players, played with determination and a can-do attitude. The girls team narrowly missed the grand final and with the contribution of our girls, it was Parramatta’s best result in a number of years. Congratulations to all four students! #bettertogether
30 May 2025
From Facebook
We were thrilled to welcome Lauren Carter, Senior Planner from The Hills Shire Council, for a special Lunch and Learn session with our students this week! Lauren generously shared her career journey into the world of urban planning, giving us an inspiring look at what led her to the profession, what she loves most about her job, and what a "typical day in the life" really looks like. Her kindness, honesty, and thoughtful answers to our students’ questions made a real impact, helping spark interest in one of the most important (and sometimes overlooked!) careers shaping our communities. Thank you, Lauren, for your time and insight — we’re so grateful! #CareersInPlanning #LunchAndLearn #PathwaysInAction #UrbanPlanning #StudentOpportunities #CareerInspo #thesydneyhills
29 May 2025