Co-Curricular

Our Values, Our Standards, Our Team

“The standards you walk past are the standards you accept.”

“It takes a village to raise a child.”

These familiar sayings remind us that positive culture does not happen by chance. One challenges us to take responsibility for what we allow; the other reminds us that raising young people is a shared endeavour. Together, they ask us to consider what we expect of our boys and what we model as adults.

In my short time at St Patrick’s, I have been enthused by the value placed on the College’s policies and the commitment to putting them into practice. Our Conditions of Enrolment, referenced on page 23 of the school diary, are an important starting point. Accepting these conditions is more than completing a form, it is a commitment to a partnership between the College, students and families.

When expectations are understood, supported and followed through fairly and consistently, they build trust and belonging. When we are all in the St Patrick’s team together, the power of these standards is multiplied. They become not simply rules to follow, but habits that shape character and strengthen our community.

Sport brings these ideas into sharp focus. In some environments, arguing with officials, reacting angrily to outcomes or belittling opponents can be excused as passion or competitiveness. When such behaviour goes unchallenged, it risks becoming normalised, the standards that have been walked past and, in effect, accepted.

What is tolerated elsewhere does not determine what is acceptable at St Patrick’s College. We follow our values, not the habits of another environment. The sporting arena is not an exception to our standards, it is an opportunity to demonstrate them, particularly when emotions run high.

We can compete fiercely without being disrespectful, be disappointed without blaming an official, and celebrate without humiliating an opponent. Respect does not prevent us from questioning a decision or raising a concern. It means doing so calmly and through the proper channels. Winning matters, but how we compete matters even more.

This responsibility belongs to students, staff, coaches, parents, carers, and supporters. Our boys learn from the sidelines as much as from the pre-game talk. A composed response and an encouraging word reinforce the message that we are one St Patrick’s team. Recognising good behaviour matters too - thanking officials, welcoming teammates and applauding perseverance make our values visible.

Our crest reminds us of the values rooted in our Catholic faith and Edmund Rice tradition. Its shield symbolises strength and fortitude, its star points towards knowledge and the Heavenly Father, and its motto, Luceat Lux Vestra, calls us to “Let your light shine.” It is more than a badge of membership; it reminds us of our responsibility whenever we represent the College.

“It takes a village” does not mean responsibility belongs to someone else. Each of us has a part to play. Families reinforce expectations at home, staff and coaches apply them consistently, supporters model them on the sidelines, and students practise them in their daily choices.

Consistency is not harshness. Our boys are learning, and mistakes will occur. Clear boundaries must be accompanied by listening, fair consequences and opportunities to repair harm and grow. We can challenge behaviour without diminishing a young person’s dignity. Accountability and care belong together.

I encourage families to revisit the Conditions of Enrolment with their sons. How do we respond when a decision goes against us? How do we speak about opponents and officials? What do we do when a teammate is excluded? These conversations turn written expectations into shared understanding.

Our culture is built through small, repeated choices: the standard we uphold, the example we set and the respectful conversation we are willing to have. Our values should not change with the scoreboard, the venue, or the behaviour of others.

The standards we uphold together become the culture our boys carry forward. That is the strength of our village, the power of our team and the meaning of letting our light shine.

Lachlan Fear

Director of Co-Curricular

College Theatre Production 2027

After a sellout run of School of Rock this year we are ready to start it all again!

In 2027 the College Theatre Production will be an SPC play adaptation of the famous novel Treasure Island. 

Treasure Island is bursting with pirates, buried treasure, secret maps, sword fights, sea shanties, and unforgettable characters. Join Jim Hawkins as he embarks on a thrilling voyage across the seas, where danger lurks around every corner and not everyone can be trusted. Will the treasure be found? And who will outsmart the legendary Long John Silver?

If you've ever dreamed of sailing on a pirate ship, hunting for treasure, or playing a larger-than-life character, Treasure Island is the adventure for you. Come audition and be part of the crew!

All information in is the Audition Booklet attached or contact Ms Duff. 

Rebecca Duff

MIC Co-Curricular Theatre | Head of Performing Arts