In Term 1, the Year 8 Visual Arts students completed a unit on Portraiture where they participated in the Santa Sophia Archie Competition.
The students were given the task to create a portrait of an influential person to show recognition for their influence and to express their identity. Many of the students chose their family members, sport icons and various celebrities.
This project was a reflection of the Archibald Prize held by the Art Gallery of NSW every year.
The Archibald Prize is an open competition for all Australians, awarded to the best portrait, 'preferentially of some man or woman distinguished in art, letters, science or politics'. Year 8 had the privilege of seeing the exhibition this year, and for a lot of students this was their first time to the Art Gallery!
The students enjoyed seeing an array of amateur and established artists showcasing their best work. The portraits brought up some great discussions about what constitutes an artwork to be considered fine art, and how artists show the inside of a person on the outside. It was a privilege to be able to show the students where their work might be displayed one day! During the day the students also visited the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Santa Sophia Catholic College
www.santasophiaboxhill.catholic.edu.au
Latest News More news
30 May 2025
From YouTube
In this first issue of our e-Newsletter for Term 2, 2025, join us as we delve into the following highlights: 1️⃣ Introduction & Recent Events Dr Chris Hayman and Mark De Vries discuss the election of Pope Leo XIV during this Jubilee Year. 2️⃣ From the Classroom Meet Miss Estelle Fragale, our PDHPE teacher and Australian Futsal Representative, who recently competed in the 2025 AFC Women's Futsal Asian Cup. 3️⃣ Student Spotlight Year 8 student Beau Krebs is interviewed by CAPA teacher Mrs Natasha Swan about his musical achievements. Stay informed, inspired, and connected with our Santa Sophia community through this engaging newsletter! 0:00 Intro and Recent Events 1:40 Dr Chris Hayman and Mr Mark De Vries discuss the exciting news of our newly elected Pope Leo XIV 3:55 From the Classroom: Miss Estelle Fragale and Mr Dermott Morgan 8:50 Student Spotlight: Mrs Natasha Swan with Year 8 student Beau Krebs
29 May 2025
From Facebook
An early start for an exciting adventure to Canberra with our Year 6 students! 🇦🇺🚌 A big thank you to all our amazing parents for the early drop-off yesterday morning. First stop: the Old Parliament House – Museum of Australian Democracy, where students learned about the design and purpose of our nation’s capital. 🏛️ The day continued with fun and learning at the National Electoral Education Centre and the Royal Australian Mint. So many valuable insights and great memories made! ✨ #Year6Camp #CanberraAdventures
29 May 2025
From Facebook
Our Year 11 Ancient History students spent the day exploring the Chau Chak Wing Museum at Sydney University! 🏺📚 They had the opportunity to engage with a fascinating range of artefacts and deepen their understanding of topics connected to their Historical Investigation. A valuable and inspiring experience bringing history to life! 🏛️✨
28 May 2025
From Facebook
Year 9 students had a fabulous first day at camp! The sun was shining for this afternoon’s activities which included canoeing, standup paddle boarding, archery, bike riding and rock climbing.
28 May 2025
From Facebook
💼🎨 Careers Breakfast: Banking, Finance & Visual Communication On Tuesday 20 May, students took part in a Careers Breakfast exploring opportunities in Banking and Finance and Visual Communication. They heard from a Regulatory Reporting Senior Manager at Macquarie Bank, who shared insights on building a career in finance using the ABCDE approach: A – ATAR B – Build skills C – Choose a course D – Deliberately network E – Engage in internships & grad programs Students also learned about career paths in Visual Communication, including designing billboards, websites, VR games, and more. They explored degree transfer options and unique opportunities through UTS, including intensive international units. A big thank you to Jennifer and Tamsyn for inspiring our students and supporting their career journeys! 🌟
28 May 2025
From Facebook
Last Friday we celebrate ‘Our Lady Help of Christians’ Liturgy which was led by our Kindergarten students ✝️ Their families were then invited into the kindergarten classrooms where they joined their children in a mini Geography lesson and drew a picture of a special place 🏠 Kindergarten also taught their parents how to play one of their favourite maths games 🎲
27 May 2025
From Facebook
Well done to our Bill Turner boys on a great win over Kingswood! ⚽ Despite tough weather conditions, the team showed incredible skill and spirit to come away with a 5–2 victory. Best of luck in the next round, boys — we’re behind you all the way! 💪🔥 #BillTurnerCup
27 May 2025
From Facebook
Exciting news from The DaVinci Decathlon! Our talented Year 5 and Year 6 students proudly represented our school at the Da Vinci Decathlon — an academic competition designed to challenge and inspire students in areas like engineering, mathematics, code breaking, poetry, art, philosophy, and more. With over 200 teams competing, this was our first time attending, and we couldn’t be prouder of the results! A huge congratulations to our Year 5 team, who took home first place in the Legacy section — an incredible achievement and a testament to their creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. 👏🏆 Well done to all our students who took on the challenge with enthusiasm and determination. We’re so proud of you! 🌟 #SantaSophiaCatholicCollege #DaVinciDecathlon #LegacyWinners #AcademicExcellence Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
26 May 2025
From Facebook
Our K–2 Athletics Carnival was a day full of fun, energy, and house spirit! 🏃♂️🎉 Students gave it their all in activities like javelin, egg relay races, running races, parachute games, and Rob the Nest. Even our amazing parents joined in the fun with a race of their own! Smiles, laughter, and team spirit were everywhere—what a fantastic day! 💛💙❤️💚 More photos to come 📸 #SantaSophiaAthleticsCarnival #SantaSophiaSport #HouseSpirit Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
26 May 2025
From Facebook
Last week, our talented debating students competed in the 6th and final round of the CSDA Debating Competition against Loreto Normanhurst. We’re incredibly proud of all our teams, with special congratulations to our Years 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 teams who brought home well-earned victories! 🏆👏 Well done to all students involved — your confidence, critical thinking, and teamwork continue to inspire us! 💬✨
23 May 2025
From Facebook
Year 11 took part in the RYDA Road Safety Program at Homebush, exploring what it means to be active, responsible road users. 🚗💡 Through six engaging sessions—including real-life scenarios, expert presentations, and hands-on activities—students learned about driver fatigue, speed and stopping distances, truck blind spots, driving laws, and safety features in modern vehicles. A standout moment was hearing from an inspiring car crash survivor, reminding us all of the power of safe choices behind the wheel. A powerful and eye-opening experience for all involved. 👏
22 May 2025
From Facebook
Year 8 had an amazing day at their Spirituality Day this week! They were led by the Youth With a Mission team who engaged the students in meaningful activities on gratitude and trusting in God's plan for us all. The day was filled with games, quiet reflection and deep conversations, allowing the students to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and each other. ✨