Deputy Principal

Catholic Schools NSW Behaviour and Diverse Learning Symposium

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Catholic Schools NSW Behaviour and Diverse Learning Symposium, held last week in Sydney. One of the keynote speakers was Tom Bennett OBE, an international education expert and author of Running the Room: The Teacher’s Guide to Behaviour, who spoke compellingly about the importance of calm, respectful, and predictable learning environments in schools. 

Tom Bennett’s message strongly affirmed the work we continue to do at St Patrick’s College, through our behaviour curriculum, Shining the St Patrick’s Way. A key idea from his presentation was that behaviour must be taught deliberately, just like any other part of learning. When expectations are clear, consistent, and explicitly taught, classrooms become places where students can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. 

At St Patrick’s, Shining the St Patrick’s Way clearly sets out what respectful and responsible behaviour looks like inside and outside the classroom. Within classrooms, our Enter–Engage–Exit routines provide students with clarity, structure, and a strong sense of purpose. These shared expectations help create calm, focused learning environments that reduce anxiety and protect valuable learning time. 

Beyond the classroom, the same principles guide students in the playground, when moving around the College and when representing St Patrick’s in the wider community. In every context, behaviour expectations are grounded in dignity, respect, and responsibility. 

Importantly, this work is most effective when school and homework in partnership. Consistent messages between parents and the College give students confidence and clarity about what is expected of them. When expectations are reinforced both at home and at school, your son is far more likely to internalise the values that underpin positive behaviour. 

As Tom Bennett emphasised, high expectations and strong relationships go hand in hand. Holding students to clear and consistent standards is not about control or punishment; it is an act of care. In our Catholic context, Shining the St Patrick’s Way reflects our commitment to forming young men who understand how their behaviour affects others and who are equipped to contribute positively to their communities. 

We encourage all families to engage with Shining the St Patrick’s Way and to regularly discuss these expectations with their sons. Together, through a strong partnership between home and school, we continue to build a culture where learning is protected, behaviour is taught, and every student is supported to flourish. 

I encourage all our families to take the time to go through Shining the St Patrick’s Way with their son so we can work to get the best outcomes for him.

Adrian Byrne

Deputy Principal