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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17 Jun 2026
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!
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24 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Our Year 10 Early Commencement Business Services students recently stepped into the professional world, completing work placements at several local businesses: MTC Future Ready Blacktown, TLE Electrical Blacktown, Zeal Services Rouse Hill, Officeworks Penrith, and Wiseberry Real Estate Richmond. These placements allowed students to apply their classroom skills to real-world scenarios, directly supporting their competency tasks for the Certificate III in Business Services and their HSC. It was great to see our students contributing so positively to these industries while balancing their school commitments, we are incredibly proud of them.
24 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Round 3: 32-0 This week we played our third game in the preliminary stage of the 2026 NRL Schoolboy Cup against the highly rated Central Coast Sports College on home soil. The game was intense from the first tackle and Central Coast lived up to all expectations in the first 15 minutes. Every metre of territory was hard earned but eventually Patties managed to breakthrough the Central Coast defence and slowly but surely gained ascendancy. The tough encounter was great preparation for the finals that start in Term 3. Thank you to our spectators for their great support, onto the quarter finals!
Latest News More news
24 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Our Year 10 Early Commencement Business Services students recently stepped into the professional world, completing work placements at several local businesses: MTC Future Ready Blacktown, TLE Electrical Blacktown, Zeal Services Rouse Hill, Officeworks Penrith, and Wiseberry Real Estate Richmond. These placements allowed students to apply their classroom skills to real-world scenarios, directly supporting their competency tasks for the Certificate III in Business Services and their HSC. It was great to see our students contributing so positively to these industries while balancing their school commitments, we are incredibly proud of them.
24 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Round 3: 32-0 This week we played our third game in the preliminary stage of the 2026 NRL Schoolboy Cup against the highly rated Central Coast Sports College on home soil. The game was intense from the first tackle and Central Coast lived up to all expectations in the first 15 minutes. Every metre of territory was hard earned but eventually Patties managed to breakthrough the Central Coast defence and slowly but surely gained ascendancy. The tough encounter was great preparation for the finals that start in Term 3. Thank you to our spectators for their great support, onto the quarter finals!
19 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Delany Cup What an incredible day of sport, community, and heritage! We were thrilled to join together with Patrician Brothers’ College Fairfield, Delany College Granville, All Saints Catholic College Liverpool, Holy Cross College Ryde, Brigidine College Randwick and special guests, Nagle College Blacktown. Played in a gala day format involving Rugby League and Soccer, every match was played in fantastic spirit with immense pride on display. It was a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the strong bonds between our colleges. Thank you to our special guests for joining us, including Br Nicholas Harsas, Br Aengus Kavanagh, Br Thomas Rice, Br Matthew Mahoney, and many of the Principals and Assistant Principals.
18 Jun 2026
From Facebook
On Tuesday the 16th of June, Patrician Brothers’ College Blacktown delivered a spectacular performance at the CSPD Pasifika FiaFia Night. The evening was a vibrant celebration of the hard work and rich diversity that defines our school community. We were incredibly proud to see our students represent their culture and the College in such a respectful manner. We extend our gratitude to St John XXIII Catholic College, Stanhope Gardens, for hosting this wonderful event, along with CSPD. Most importantly, we want to thank the students who represented us with such pride and enthusiasm. In the weeks leading up to the event, our students dedicated many lunch breaks and after-school hours to rehearsals, consistently demonstrating a deep passion for their heritage. This success would not have been possible without the tireless guidance and supervision of Mr Alan Niulesa, Ms Jane Solo, Mr Ezrah Lavemai, Mr Delahoya Manu, Mr Osa Levae, and Mr Francis Nansen. We are extremely grateful for the many hours they sacrificed to prepare the boys for the event. Finally, a heartfelt thank you to the families and friends who attended to show their support - your presence meant the world to our students.
17 Jun 2026
From Facebook
From Blue & Gold to Sky Blue! Congratulations to Roman Tuaimau, Marcellus Iakopo, Christopher Petrus, Christian Taupau-Moors and Cameron Bamblett on their selection in the NSW Under 19’s State of Origin team. Each of these young men has proudly represented Patrician Brothers’ College Blacktown with distinction, demonstrating commitment, character, and excellence at the highest levels of Schoolboy Rugby League. Their dedication has earned them the opportunity to step onto an even bigger stage and represent New South Wales. State of Origin has long been a pathway to the NRL, and we are incredibly proud to see them take the next step in their rugby league journey. Best of luck for tomorrow night's match, the Patrician Brothers’ community is proud and right behind you!
16 Jun 2026
From Facebook
34-6 Another strong win from Patrician Brothers’ Blacktown over Matraville Sports High in the Peter Mulholland Cup. We look forward to our next match against Central Coast College next Tuesday.
12 Jun 2026
From Facebook
On Wednesday evening, our Year 7 team debated against Clancy Catholic College from Hoxton Park in the first session of Elimination Finals of 2026 CSDA Debating. The team members; Emmanuel Jamieson, Morgan Leary and Fredrich Brillo made the College proud with their performance and presentation throughout the entire season and this week was no exception. Unfortunately, some of our team were unwell, and Fredrich offered to step in, not wanting the team to forfeit, even though he was not 100% himself. The boys performed very well, but in a high-quality and hard-fought debate, we went down narrowly. We commend them on their outstanding achievement of making it to the finals in their first season as debaters. Our Year 12 team has made it through the Quarter Finals, taking place on Friday 26th June. Congratulations again to all the students who have participated this season, and onto the next!
11 Jun 2026
From Facebook
On Wednesday, as part of our partnership with Western Sydney University’s PATHE program, a group of our Year 10 Pasifika students participated in career-focused workshops tailored to their interests. The day included two specialised sessions followed by an insightful Q&A panel featuring Pasifika university students and a guest graduate speaker. Alongside peers from 18 other schools, our students had the valuable opportunity to connect with fellow Pasifika youth who share similar aspirations for tertiary education and future career pathways.
10 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Last week the Australian Catholic University (ACU) held their Uni Step-Up Completion Ceremony where Domenic Gallagher of Year 12 received his certificate for completing the criminology program. Uni Step-Up provides students an opportunity to experience learning in a university environment at ACU, by completing two first-year university subjects during school holiday periods. Students undertake intensive study and complete assessments and sit exams. Students who complete the course receive an early offer into a range of courses within the course area of their program. Domenic is a member of our 2026 Student Leadership team, with specific responsibility for the Diversity and Inclusiveness - Wellbeing and Hospitality portfolio. Congratulations to Domenic and his family on this outstanding achievement, we wish you all the best in your future endeavours studying and working in the criminology and law sectors!
09 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Last week our Year 7 students visited Sydney Zoo to take part in the Classification of Living Things program, a hands-on excursion aligned with the new Science syllabus. The 90-minute interactive workshop took students through the Australian precinct and Aquarium, guided by a Sydney Zoo educator. Students explored the diversity of life and the principles of scientific classification to identify and sort species. Thermal camera technology brought animal adaptations to life in a uniquely engaging way, allowing students to observe how Australian animals are suited to their environments firsthand. Before and after the workshop, students had the opportunity to explore the Asia and Africa precincts independently. The excursion connected classroom learning to real-world scientific practice, giving students direct exposure to animal classification, adaptation, and biodiversity. The use of technology and immersive zoo surroundings made for an unforgettable learning experience.