Nagle College Launches New STEM Scholarship for Future Innovators

Nagle College Blacktown has announced the launch of the “Christine Howe STEM Academic Scholarship”, a new opportunity designed to support and inspire young women passionate about STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

Students enrolling in Year 7 from 2026 are eligible to apply for the scholarship, which reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to excellence in learning within a supportive Catholic community.

Recipients of the scholarship will not only receive either a full or partial discount on College tuition fees, but will join the specialised “Lumen Mathematics” class. Students in this class are selected for their exceptional skill in numeracy and are provided with advanced programs and enrichment opportunities that nurture curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skills. Both the scholarship and Lumen Class aim to open pathways for girls to explore STEM fields with confidence, preparing them for future study and leadership in a rapidly evolving world.

Deborah Scollard, Interim Principal, says the scholarship embodies the College’s mission to educate the whole person in the tradition of Nano Nagle, an Irish Catholic education pioneer known as the “Lady of the Lantern.”

“Students are encouraged to let their light shine by using their gifts and talents to make a difference in their communities and beyond. The scholarship also highlights our belief here at Nagle, that every child deserves the chance to thrive, regardless of circumstance,” Deborah said.

“By supporting excellence and opportunity in STEM, the College continues its proud legacy of empowering young women to shape the future with faith, purpose and compassion.”

Applications are now being accepted for the Christine Howe STEM Academic Scholarship.

Express your interest and find out more

ABOUT CHRISTINE HOWE OAM

A brilliant mathematician, Christine Howe OAM excelled throughout her early studies, completing a Masters of Education at the Australian Catholic University, as well as a Bachelor of Science (Honours) at the University of New South Wales where she received the University Medal and the coveted RJ Webster Prize for the best undergraduate thesis.

After beginning her own education at St Monica’s Primary North Parramatta, Christine’s career in secondary teaching also commenced locally in 1984 when she began work at Parramatta Marist High School. In 2001, she was appointed Principal of Caroline Chisholm College Glenmore Park, where she served for more than a decade and graduated over 1000 students.

Christine progressed to a series of senior leadership roles within Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese, most recently working as Director Learning and Deputy Executive Director. Christine was recognised in the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours, receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her service to secondary education.

Portrait photo of Christine Howe OAM
Christine Howe OAM

Written By

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

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06 Apr 2026
From Facebook
To all St Oliver’s Stemgineers! What perfect weather to start getting creative. I am looking for a STEM mascot and I’d love your help. Using materials you find around the house, try building a robot 🤖 I have shared some ideas in the photos below. I can’t wait to see what you have made when we return to school. Mrs Iovannella

02 Apr 2026
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This morning, our school community gathered for a beautiful and prayerful Holy Week liturgy. Thank you to all the families who were able to join us. Your presence brought so much joy to the children, and it was wonderful to share this sacred moment together.