STRONG MINDS, 

GENTLE HEARTS

News from Frazer Rigby

Deputy Principal

The Philosophy Behind What We Do Beyond the Classroom

At St Augustine’s, we are deeply committed to the holistic development of our young men: spiritually, emotionally, physically and socially. Our school camps and retreats are a vital part of our educational approach, offering students meaningful opportunities to grow, reflect and connect in ways that the traditional classroom cannot always provide.

 

Recently, our Year 10 students travelled to the striking outback landscape of Chillagoe, where they were challenged to push beyond their comfort zones. In this remote and awe-inspiring environment, they engaged in experiences that nurtured resilience, teamwork and independence. These boys learned, firsthand, the value of perseverance, mateship, and shared responsibility, all while embodying the Marist values of presence, simplicity and love of work.

 

Meanwhile, our Year 11s gathered at the tranquil setting of Lake Tinaroo for their annual retreat, with a specific focus on preparing for leadership in 2026. As these young men move into their senior roles, the retreat provided an important space for reflection on what it means to lead with integrity, compassion and service. Through guided discussions, quiet contemplation and shared experiences, students were encouraged to examine their personal values and begin shaping the legacy they wish to leave as future leaders of the College.

 

These formative experiences reflect the heart of our Marist tradition – building community, nurturing faith and shaping young men of character. Camps and retreats are not simply extra-curricular activities; they are powerful rites of passage that help anchor our students in purpose and direction.

 

We sincerely thank our dedicated staff for their guidance and accompaniment on these events and our families for supporting the significance of these important moments in the lives of our students.

 

Collecting your son after school

Boys are often left waiting either in the College grounds or outside the school until 5pm or later. Please note that supervision is only provided on Scott Street until 3:40pm. There is no supervision provided in the College grounds for day students after school.

 

Please make suitable arrangements for your son to be picked up or met by 3:45pm if they do not have supervised school commitments beyond that time. Alternatively, students may do their homework or study in the Gildas Centre until 4:45pm Monday to Thursday and until 3:30pm on Friday.

 

The boys have been advised that while waiting for parents or carers, they must respect the local community and the College by following the guidelines below:

  • Sit quietly and keep the footpath clear.
  • Do not play ball games, specifically handball. 
  • Do not swear.
  • Do not use laptops.
  • Wear your uniform neatly with socks up and shirt                                                               tucked in.

     

Cerise and Blue

The College’s annual Open Night gives prospective members of the Saints community an opportunity to come and see the way we do things. Cerise and Blue is on Tuesday 26 August, from 4:30-6:30pm. All students in Years 7, 8 and 9 are expected to attend in full college uniform.