Behind The Crest

Welcome to the first edition of Behind The Crest, a new series of student-led stories from across St Bede's College. Founded by proud Year 8 students Jimmy, Noah, Miguel, Jacob, Marcus, and Chase, Behind The Crest is designed to inspire and connect students and staff. 

This edition features a profile on Public Speaking and Debating Coordinator, Kath Flynn, as reported by the Behind The Crest team. 

Finding Your Voice: Meet Mrs Flynn

Public Speaking and Debating can be challenging, but St Bede’s English teacher Mrs Flynn is helping students become more confident, think critically and express their opinions. Mrs Flynn was inspired to teach Public Speaking and Debating because she believes in empowering young people. She wants students to build confidence and develop skills that will help them become future leaders. Mrs Flynn helps students improve by giving them opportunities to practise, try different strategies and learn from their experiences. She believes every student has the right to express their opinion and that every opinion is valuable.

From Journalism to Teaching

Teaching wasn't always Mrs Flynn’s plan. When she was in Year 10, she wanted to become a journalist and even sat a journalism cadetship test. After studying English, political science and drama, she realised she wanted to do more than share information. She wanted to help people find their voices, which eventually led her into teaching.

Life at St Bede’s

Mrs Flynn has been at St Bede’s for three years and has taught English from Year 7 through to Year 11. She particularly enjoys creative writing, public speaking and debating. One of her goals is to encourage more students to participate in the Brother Quentin Public Speaking Event. She wants students to see it as an opportunity to have a go rather than something to be nervous about. 

Mrs Flynn believes that effort is more important than grades. She encourages students to keep trying, reflect on their work and ask for help when they need it. Outside of school, Mrs Flynn enjoys playing guitar, photography, cooking, reading, travelling and going to the theatre.

Her advice to students is simple: “Be kind to yourself. Give things a go. Start it, and if you need help, ask for assistance.”

Behind The Crest