Student Stories, Achievements & Community News

Student Stories

Vocal Showcase: The 80s

Our recent Vocal Showcase: The 80s was another big success. From Rick Astley to Bon Jovi, our Voice students from the Instrumental Music Program presented a high-energy event which had everyone singing along. 

Each student researched, practiced and prepared their own piece for the one-off event, accompanied at the event by a professional band. Vocal Ensembles Captain, Liam C loved the whole journey

"The 80s Vocal Showcase was one of the most exciting experiences I've ever had at school as a musician. They are a highlight of each semester and a demonstration of all my hard work; challenging me to go outside of my comfort zone. Thanks Mr Downing, Ms McCormick, Ms Allan and the AV team for giving us such a fun and enjoyable night."   

European History Tour Highlights

As part of their VCE History studies, a group of our Year 11s have enjoyed a fantastic two-week adventure to some of Europe's most significant cities and sites. 

Across Turkey, Poland, Germany, Belgium and France, the group has experienced many immersive highlights that have enriched their learning. 

Haiga Sophia and Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

"After a buffet breakfast at the hotel we hopped on the bus on the way to the Hagia Sophia. The sheer size and detail of the place was incredible – from the massive domes to the beautiful mosaics, it was easy to see why it’s such an iconic site. Learning about its history as both a church and a mosque gave us a deeper appreciation of how much this place has seen over the centuries. It was powerful to stand in a place that has meant so much to so many people throughout time.

 

After that, we made our way to the Grand Bazaar, which was a totally different kind of experience – chaotic but amazing! The colours, the smells, the sounds – it was like stepping into another world. We got to browse through everything from spices and sweets to carpets and jewellery. Some of us even tried our hand at bartering (with mixed results), but it was all part of the fun. After some shopping and purchases we stopped at a restaurant for a late lunch. The doner kebabs were delicious. Then we hopped back on the bus and went back to the hotel to end another awesome day." Caidan M

Krakow and Aushwitz-Birkenau, Poland

"Today we explored Krakow and visited Wawel Castle, a historic and beautiful site full of Polish history. We got to see Saint Mary’s Basilica, which was one of the most beautiful locations of the trip so far.

Lunch was at a pop-up market that just happened to be on today. We enjoyed some great food and spent the last of our Polish Zloty on souvenirs.

In the afternoon, we took the bus to Auschwitz, where we experienced the confronting but necessary weight of World War II history. The loss of human life was overwhelming and had an impact on all of us. We spoke about the quote by George Santayana that said "Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it". We finished with a prayer about remembering the families of those who lost their lives." Harry A

Flanders and Passchendaele, Belgium

"Our first activity of the day was stocking up on healthy and nutritious foods as advised by Mr Borella, which we would eat later at our picnic lunch. We then went to Polygon Wood where we were lucky enough to do an interactive activity through the forest where the Anzacs fought in World War I.

During this we had to work as a team to figure out directions and special codes to find our way through the forest and to the beautiful cemetery where we finished our adventure. We then had our lunch just outside the museum which is where we headed next. This museum had so much interesting information and items from the war like uniforms and guns and especially artillery shells from the battle of Passchendaele. We also had the chance to walk through a real underground bunker and a recreated trench. It was so amazing to see with our own eyes what we have studied and read in our textbooks at school, and gives us a new perspective and understanding of what it would’ve been like during the War. 

When we arrived back at the hotel, a nice pasta dinner was waiting for us followed by a movie put on by Mr Cracknell about Hill 60 which we will visit tomorrow."

Tom G

ANZAC Day Services

Thank you to our students and staff who represented the College at ANZAC Day Services to honour those who have fought and those who have fallen. 

In Mentone, our College Drumline led the Dawn Service parade to the RSL. 

At Bentleigh RSL, Year 8 students Lucas A-L and Francesco L delivered poems with solemn respect.  

On behalf of the Bentleigh RSL, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for St Bede’s College student’s attendance and participation in this year’s ANZAC Day commemorations. 

 

Both Francesco and Lucas did a fabulous job of reading the poetry at the ceremony and their presence and involvement significantly enhanced the solemnity and spirit of the day. We are deeply appreciative of your commitment to honouring our veterans and their sacrifices. 

 

It is through the dedicated efforts of individuals like yourself and organisations such as St Bede’s College that we can continue to uphold the traditions and significance of ANZAC Day for our community and future generations. Thank you once again for your valued contribution. We hope to have the pleasure of your involvement in future events.

 

Yours sincerely,

Dr Mark Schröffel 

Bentleigh RSL President

Representing My Great-Grandfather on ANZAC Day - March To The Shrine  

Xavier K (Year 8) had the honour of representing his Great-Grandfather at the March to The Shrine of Rememberance on ANZAC Day. 

"Marching in the ANZAC Day March was a deeply moving experience, filled with pride, reverence, and a profound sense of connection to history and country. Whether you're a veteran, current service member, descendant, or supporter, each step taken in the march is a tribute to the resilience, courage, and a spirit that define the ANZAC spirit. Banners held high, medals worn over hearts, and faces marked with emotion reflect the personal and collective stories carried forward through generations. The march isn’t just a ritual, it's a living legacy that binds Australians and New Zealanders together, reminding everyone that freedom and peace were won years ago. As the national anthem plays and the Last Post echoes through the air, there’s a shared moment of reflection, a communal respect that transcends age or background, uniting all in respect and remembrance.

 

I’m incredibly proud to have represented my great-grandfather and the legacy he left behind. Knowing that he served in the Signals Division during World War II, working tirelessly behind the front lines to ensure communication and coordination in some of the most critical moments of the war, fills me with a deep sense of respect and admiration. His courage and technical skill are traits I strive to carry with me in my own life. He stood as a vital link in a vast chain of people working toward a free world. Representing him meant honoring the values he stood for."

Celebrating Student Achievement

Congratulations to Tomas P who has been appointed 2025 Public Speaking and Debating Captain. Tomas has been a mainstay in our DAV Debating team and recipient of Best Speaker Awards across the competition, along with winning the ANZAC Public Speaking Competition last month. 

Public Speaking and Debating Coordinator, Leah Oirbans says the appointment is very well deserved. 

"Tomas approaches public speaking and teamwork with intelligence, drive, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His ability to bring out the best in himself and his teammates is truly remarkable, and his dynamic presence ensures he always captures the attention of the room. As our Public Speaking and Debating Captain for 2025, Tomas has stepped up as a role model and mentor, sharing his expertise in crafting arguments, leaving impact and giving insightful guidance to younger students." 

Congratulations to Fraser L and Tom J and (Year 8) who represented Victoria in the Australian Athletics Champtionships, and to Cooper B (Year8) competed in the Little Athletics Victoria Stawell Gift (400m).

Fraser

U15 Men's 400m - 6th - 53.05

U15 Men's 800m - 5th - 2:03.26 (PB)

U15 Men's Triple Jump - 8th - 11.56m

U15 Men's Long Jump - 8th - 5.74m 

Tom

U15 Men's Shot Put - 4th - 14.43m (PB)

Cooper 

400m Sprint (Finals)

Congratulations to Year 8s Christian B and Hudson M, and Year 9s Eoin J and Marcel I on winning their relay event at the 2025 Victorian All Schools Road Relay Championships this weekend. 

Competing against 35 schools, our students represented the College spectacularly, taking first place in the Under 16 Boys' 4 x 3km event at Princes Park in Carlton. Their race has been described as gutsy, gritty, determined and exciting. 

Big shout out to the boys' teammate Hugo M (Year 8), who couldn’t compete last minute due to injury, but dedicated his morning to joining the boys and being their number one coach, mentor and timekeeper. 

Well done Christian, Hudson, Eoin, Marcel, Hugo and our gratitude to their families and to Coach Gavin Brown for their support.

Congratulations to Year 12 students Jett K and Campbell G who have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to ACC Cricket Senior (35 over) 2025.

Jett was very influential with both the bat (178 run @ 44.5) and ball (10 wickets @10.5) throughout the season. He was selected both as ACC Most Outstanding Performer and in ACC Team Of The Year. 

Campbell was also selected in ACC Team Of The Year. Campbell made an impact with both bat (96 runs @ 16) and ball (11 wickets @ 11.3) this year. 

Have A Student Story To Share? 

Have a great achievement you'd like us to share?

Simply get in touch with our team at marketing@stbedes.catholic.edu.au