Western Sydney Catholic school students top NSW in Studies of Religion

Mikaylah Dimech from Bede Polding College Windsor first in NSW for Studies of Religion II.

In an outstanding achievement, two students from Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CPSD) have earned First-in-Course honours for Studies of Religion I and Studies of Religion II in the 2024 HSC exams.

Genevieve Sing from Gilroy Catholic College Castle Hill, placed first in NSW in Studies of Religion I and Mikaylah Dimech from Bede Polding College Windsor first in NSW for Studies of Religion II. This remarkable accomplishment highlights the students’ dedication and passion for faith and academic studies and reflects the high standard of excellence in Religious Education within the Parramatta Diocese.

The accomplishment of Gilroy student, Genevieve, is impressive on another level as she sat the exam as a Year 11 accelerated student. Principal of Gilroy, Cheryl Merryweather, expressed her pride and that of the whole college community.

“Genevieve is part of our Year 11 accelerated Studies of Religion cohort and has shown exceptional commitment to her studies. Genevieve has earned this well-deserved recognition through her hard work. Her success is an inspiration for our community!” she said.

For Bede Polding graduate, Mikaylah Dimech, the news came as a big surprise but has reinforced her commitment to learning.

“It was really surprising to receive the news but it was such a great feeling,” Mikaylah said. “It just goes to show that if you try your best and work hard, you will get the results.”

Mikalya has received early entry to UNSW to study Law/Commerce next year and thanked her teachers for making Studies of Religion II interesting and engaging.

Bede Polding Principal, Greg Malone congratulated Mikaylah on her dedication, acknowledging the support of her great teachers.

“We are extremely proud of Mikaylah for her achievements in the HSC. She is an extremely hardworking student who left no stone unturned in her pursuit of excellence,” he said.

She was consistently working with her teachers to improve her understanding and responses. Mr Brendan Lazaroo and Mr Joshua Rodricks-Testa are highly experienced, talented and dedicated teachers who know their students well and what they need to do to improve.

“They tailor their lessons to meet the needs of each and every student to make sure learning is engaging, relevant and purposeful,” he said.

Mark Smith, CSPD’s Executive General Manager - Mission highlighted the exceptional support and teaching of Religious Education within CSPD.

“Congratulations to Genevieve and Mikaylah for their outstanding academic achievements. This is a credit to their diligence and application to academic rigour and excellence,” said Mark.

It is a credit to the expertise and commitment of their current Studies of Religion teachers and to their Religious Education teachers over their entire schooling, who helped to build their foundational knowledge and understanding.

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese congratulates Mikaylah and Genevieve on their incredible achievements.

Photo of the First in Course presentation.

Written By

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

13 Aug 2025
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