From the Principal

Dear Parents, Carers and Members of the St Augustine’s College Community,

As we reach the midpoint of Term 1, it has already been a vibrant and event-filled start to the year at St Augustine’s College. There is a wonderful sense of energy across the school, and it has been pleasing to see our students embracing the many opportunities available to them. Our Year 7 camp this week is a fantastic experience, allowing students to build friendships, grow in independence and strengthen their connection to the College community. Our Outdoor and Environmental Studies camp students also demonstrated resilience, teamwork and courage as they challenged themselves in outdoor environments. Alongside these experiences, we have enjoyed a range of excursions, interschool sports and our recent swimming carnival, which showcased tremendous House spirit, participation and encouragement. Thank you to our staff who generously give their time to ensure these opportunities are possible for our students.

As a Catholic community, we have also entered the sacred season of Lent. Our Shrove Tuesday gathering was a joyful community occasion, bringing families, students and staff together in hospitality and connection as we prepared our hearts for this important season. On Ash Wednesday, we gathered reverently as ashes were distributed, marking the beginning of Lent and calling us to prayer, reflection, service and renewal. Lent reminds us that growth often comes through small, intentional acts of kindness, generosity and forgiveness. May this season inspire us all to deepen our faith and strengthen our relationships with one another.

Following conversations with members of our School Advisory Council and parents, I would also like to again clarify what Magnify Sandhurst is and what it means for St Augustine’s College. Magnify is our evidence-informed, science of learning school improvement initiative. It focuses on how the brain learns, the effective teaching of literacy, the implementation of a low-variance, knowledge-rich curriculum, and the creation of calm, predictable and positive classrooms. In simple terms, Magnify provides us with the tools, programs, professional learning and system-wide support to improve student growth - both academically and from a wellbeing perspective. It is about strengthening consistency across classrooms and ensuring every student has the best possible opportunity to succeed.

We are also excited to see the commencement of our new Senior School building project, with an article featured in this week’s Kyabram Free Press. It is wonderful to see this significant development beginning to take shape and to witness the continued investment in the future of Catholic education in Kyabram. As works begin, please note that the entrance to the construction site is via Tulloh Street. We ask families to avoid this area where possible, particularly over the coming weeks as concrete trucks and construction vehicles will be accessing the site. The safety of our students, families and staff remains our priority and we appreciate your cooperation.

Looking ahead, the busy pace of Term 1 continues with our Foundation Stay Back, Year 12 Retreat, school photos, school sports excursions and NAPLAN, along with a long weekend for good measure. These opportunities continue to enrich student learning and community life.

Finally, I would like to thank families for your ongoing support and partnership. We greatly value open and respectful communication. As a reminder, if concerns arise, please contact your child’s Teacher Advisor (TA) in the first instance, followed by the relevant Community Leader if required. We ask that all conversations are approached with respect and trust as we work together to support each student’s growth and development. Staff are available during working hours; however, as they are often teaching, planning or in meetings, please allow up to 48 hours for email responses.

Thank you again for your continued support of St Augustine’s College. It is through strong relationships between school and home that our students truly flourish.

Warm regards, 

Tim Campbell

Principal