Principal's Message
Mission and Vision
Over the course of the past few months we have been working with staff, students and the Board
(a number of whom are parents) in looking at the Mission and Vision of St Bede’s College. There are a few reasons why this is a valuable exercise. Firstly, it enables a conversation around what we believe are the essential aspects of our school and we learn from one another as we listen to other people express their thoughts. The students were particularly interesting to listen to from their perspective. Secondly, it gives a sense of purpose in discovering that numerous words and phrases correlated between individuals and groups and this eventually formed the basis for the final wording. Thirdly, it provides the bedrock for any future strategic planning and master planning. It was very clear that there is a collective sense of pride when talking about our College.
All of the above has led to the wording that you see given below this section of the newsletter.
Old Collegian Reunions
We have had two reunions of late. These were for the Classes of 1988 and 1998. It is always so encouraging to listen to these men who appreciated their time at the College and have gone on to work in such diverse areas. The common theme was one of gratitude. Both groups were pleased to hear of recent happenings and to view the very different facilities that now exist on-site. A number of these men now have sons who will be making their own pathways through St Bede’s in the years to come.
VRQA
The visit by the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) has taken place. We are pleased to advise that the College has been re-accredited in all areas. Part of this visit also incorporates a section on Child Safety (Safeguarding) compliance. This is the number one priority for the College and incorporates our practice, protocols and policies. Along with ensuring that we are compliant, we also seek to look at new and better ways to work with students, staff and families in this area of wellbeing.
Year 12
Our Year 12 students are reaching a conclusion to their secondary studies. The VCAL cohort have their final Mass and school day on 20 September with the entire year level finishing on 19 October with a formal assembly. The Valete Mass and Dinner is to take place on 23 October. We wish all of these young men well as they finish the year in a focused, respectful and happy manner.
Primary School Visit
103 Year 3 students from St Louis de Montfort primary school came to St Bede’s recently as part of a Science visit. These students had access to our specialist rooms along with some impressive experiments organised by our staff. The children also had the opportunity to have a tour of our grounds. This type fn interaction has mutual benefits for both schools. Thank you to Mr Brendan Fordham for coordinating.
Indonesian “Idol”
We recently invited a number of Secondary Colleges to join us for a Concert in our Auditorium which was given by Indonesia Idol winner, Michael J. and his band. We were also joined by the Indonesian Consul General and her staff. It was an interesting and exciting way to promote Indonesian as a language to students.
Well done to Ms Astrid Dux for her organisation.
Parent / Teacher Interviews
The final set of interviews for the year occurred last Thursday. The five afternoons and evenings allocated throughout the year hope to give families the opportunity to attend and discuss their son’s learning. We have had a very strong attendance rate at these interviews and thank parents and guardians for their support and interest in learning. There was even a tinge of sadness from some Year 12 parents who recognised that it was the last of 13 years of interviews.
Activities
Some recent happenings:
Our senior Chess team came second on countback at the recent ACC Tournament.
Our C2 debaters (the younger boys) have made it to the final 16 in the State and debate this week
Our Year 10 Public Speaking Competition has been of a very high quality
The Year 9A ACC Basketball Team plays in the Grand Final this week
Congratulations to all students involved in these activities.
St Vincent de Paul Society
We are making a concerted effort to support “Vinnies” by collecting food and other items and by supporting the “Vinnies Sleepout”. This takes place on Friday of this week and will involve around 30 volunteer students who will sleep in a very different setting to their normal rooms at home. This is to highlight the needs of the homeless for whom the St Vincent de Paul Society advocates so passionately.
Per Vias Rectas
John Finn
Principal