Stella Newsletter

Entertainment and Library news...

Entertainment News

Exciting Industry Opportunities for Entertainment Students

Students enrolled in the Entertainment Industry course in Years 11 and 12 made the most of incredible real-world work placement opportunities earlier in the year—gaining valuable hands-on experience while still at school. From setting the vibe as DJs at College carnivals and welcome evenings to supporting school productions and working behind the scenes at the iconic Sydney Royal Easter Show, our students have stepped into dynamic roles that bring classroom learning to life.

These experiences not only build practical skills but also allow students to network and form connections within the industry, laying a strong foundation for those considering a future in entertainment once they finish school.

We are immensely proud of the professionalism, enthusiasm, and talent our students have shown as ambassadors for the College. Below are some of their reflections on what has already been a rewarding and inspiring year.

Mitchell Smith, Theatre Manager and Teacher of English, Drama & Entertainment

Catherine B (Year 12)

Working at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in the entertainment sector was an unforgettable experience, especially being part of the Street Parade team. I helped coordinate the performers, ensured smooth transitions between the movements and acts, and assisted with timing and crowd interaction. What I loved most was being surrounded by such high-energy creativity every day — the music, costumes, and excitement from the audience made it feel magical. It was exciting to be behind the scenes of such a major Sydney event and to see how much teamwork and planning goes into making everything run smoothly. It was a privilege to be part of something so iconic and vibrant.

On one of the evenings, I had the incredible opportunity to observe the Main Arena show from 7.00–9.00pm, where I listened in on the comms and watched the team of professionals run the event in real time. It was eye-opening to see how much coordination and precision goes into every cue — from lighting and pyrotechnics to live announcements and performer timing. Hearing the live communication between the director, tech crew, and stage managers taught me so much about how large-scale productions are run. It was inspiring to learn directly from experienced industry professionals and speak to them in such a high-pressure, fast-paced environment after the event.

Lucy O (Year 12)

In my time doing work placement for Entertainment, I have had many positive experiences and have gained many social skills and entertainment skills over the course of my work. For work placement hours, I worked at that Sydney Royal Easter Show. I don’t regret doing it as I had so much fun working with new people and experiencing working in a high energy work environment. Over the course of the four days I worked at the Easter Show, I got to experience the pleasure of working with new students of my age and with experienced professionals. I also made new friends and strengthened my previous friendships. Entertainment work placement is fun and educational as you make new connections and learn new skills to help you in the entertainment industry such as learning how to tie cables, operate sound and lighting systems and learning about WHS regulations. I have had an overall positive experience through work placement hours and I highly recommend putting yourself out there and learning something new.

Zoe A (Year 11)

Since starting Year 11 Entertainment, I have grown positively and in numerous ways. Whilst I have had previous experience within the inner workings of entertainment throughout my time at this school, the ability to further my skills has helped increase my confidence greatly. Working at both the Swimming and Athletics Carnivals has given me opportunities to test and apply my knowledge in a safe and controlled environment with people I trust and can rely on. I appreciate all the opportunities I have been given and cannot wait to extend my knowledge within the Entertainment Industry!

    Library News

    Read for Your House and the Classics Challenge

    Thank you to our Academic Prefect and House Leaders for visiting their House groups to inspire reading for their house colours and promoting Read for Your House and the Classics Challenge.

    Congratulations to Term 1 winner of Read for Your House – MacKillop. In a close race, MacKillop pipped Noonuccal by two books!! Go get them this term Noonuccal!!

    Thank you to our House Leaders including Erin H (Wood), Stella T (Smith), Jade G (Noonuccal), Jemima M (Egan).

    Wondering what to read?

    Pinterest recommendations from students (with links to Goodreads) are available for parental/daughter chats by clicking the image below.

    PINTEREST: Suggested by our Stella Maris Community