Principal's Message
College Captains 2019
The process for selecting our College Captains for next year has now concluded.
Congratulations to the following young men who have been chosen by their peers to lead our Community:
College Captain: Jonathan Clark
College Vice Captains: Nicholas Grech
Lachlan Kerr
Blake O’Leary
We wish Jonathan, Nicholas, Lachlan and Blake well with the ACC Leadership Launch this week and with the year to come. The election of the House Captains and Vice Captains is currently taking place.
College Board
The Board met last week for its final gathering of the year. I commend the work of the Board to our College Community. The Director’s each take on a significant responsibility with the governance of our school and do so with competence and good grace. They have the interest of the College at heart. A particular thank you goes to Anthony Brinkley (Chair) and Stephen Gallagher (Deputy Chair) for their collective efforts.
The Board is currently in the process of creating a Strategic Plan to guide the College in the years to come.
Flying Start
The College has now moved into the 2019 academic year. Given that some of our 2018 Year 12 students only finished their final exam (Italian) last Wednesday, it does seem like a quick turnaround. The advantage of such a system is that it allows students to know their class groups, teachers and locations well before they return in the New Year and understand the expectations required of them. It also gives the College the opportunity to ensure all the necessary supports are in place for our boys.
Parents and Friends Association
Well done to our Association who hosted a parent breakfast on Tuesday for those parents experiencing Flying Start in Years 10, 11 and 12. A particular welcome was given to our St James, East Bentleigh families who join us in Year 11. It was a fine initiative that allowed some of our new families the opportunity to meet those who have greater experience with the College.
Music on the Lawn
Whilst we did intend to have this event outside on College grounds, the weather intervened meaning that we adjourned to the College Sports Centre. The quality of music, support from the large audience and the recognition of the students who played, all remained. It was telling that the audience formed a semi-circle around the performers as this was indicative of how a Community supports their own. Well done to our staff and students on a fine night of music.
Student Trips
We wish all students and staff who are attending the upcoming Italian and Indian trips a safe journey and a wonderful experience. Such ventures require considerable planning, trust and teamwork. We look forward to following the progress of both groups over the next two weeks.
India Trip 2018 departs Saturday 1 December link below to follow all the fun.
https://indiaoutreach2018.wordpress.com/
Italy Trip 2018 departs Saturday 1 December link below to follow their fun.
https://stbedesinitaly.wordpress.com/
40 Year Reunion
Many classmates from the 1978 group attended this function last week. Amongst the group were current staff members along with a number of former teachers who also made the effort to be there. It was a lively night that was full of memories and good humour.
End of Year
As we move towards the end of year, I wish to thank the St Bede’s Community for the welcome I have received in my first year as Principal. I have very much appreciated the warmth, advice and support that I have experienced.
May the Lord look down on all of us with good grace as we share the joy and hope that the Christmas season brings. On behalf of the staff of the College, I wish your family well over the summer break and look forward to working with you once again as we seek to support our young men in the year to come.
A happy and holy Christmas and New Year to you and your family.
Per Vias Rectas
John Finn
Principal