Student Wellbeing

ICAN PROGRAM - 2022

St Bede's College recently took part in the I CAN Network, which runs across both Mentone and Bentleigh East Campuses. This is the second year the program has run, and involved a group of students ranging from Year 7 to 11.  

The I CAN Network is Australia’s first social enterprise founded by people with autism, who run a mentoring program to empower people on the spectrum. They promote an ‘I CAN’ attitude, and inspire their peers "with the ‘awe' in awe-tism". 

The suite of mentoring programs is delivered to groups of students on the spectrum across primary and secondary schools, universities, TAFEs and other workplaces. 

The programs' point of difference is that it is delivered by mentors - typically people at university or TAFE or a young professionals - who are, themselves, on the spectrum.

At the Mentone Campus, students participated in eight sessions of ICAN, as well as taking part in a virtual expo. The sessions delivered a series of modules designed to develop participants’ leadership and communication skills. 

Outcomes of the program for participants include an increase in self-acceptance, social connection, optimism and self-confidence. 

It is our hope that St Bede's College can offer this program to our students again in 2023. For more information regarding the I CAN Network, please following the link below -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feDmUIpTFAw&t=111s 

After-School Safety

St Bede’s College is committed to ensuring students are as safe as possible.  This commitment extends beyond the school gates and outside of the hours of 8.40am until 3.15pm.

If one of our students does something to help another member of the community, we may hear about it. We have received wonderful accounts of our students helping senior citizens on the bus and helping lost or confused Primary School children find their way. 

Conversely, if our students engage in behaviour that is harmful or dangerous we are very likely to hear about it, and the expectation is that the College act to prevent a reoccurrence.

Most reports made to us are regarding alleged incidents that occur after school finishes for the day. The safest habit for students to form is to go home immediately after school. 

Bike Safety

Students who ride a bike to school must always wear a suitable helmet and obey the road rules. The streets around the College are very congested with vehicle and pedestrian traffic and they must be wary of this.

We ask that parents discuss after school arrangements including transport, estimated home arrival time and any planned activities with their children. 

Mark Jones

Deputy Principal - Students