STRONG MINDS,
GENTLE HEARTS
News from Frazer Rigby
Deputy Principal
St Augustine's College Cairns
Championing young people in a digital world
Last Monday, our Year 9 students attended an inspiring and impactful presentation by guest speaker Daniel Principe. With a respectful and empathetic approach, he encouraged our young men to challenge cultural norms and become the best versions of themselves.
Daniel's thoughtful delivery of sensitive topics fostered a safe and open environment where students felt comfortable asking questions and engaging meaningfully. Despite some initial discomfort when Year 9 students from St Monica’s joined the session, the overall experience proved to be enriching and empowering.
The presentation provided valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating the complexities of relationships and sexuality in today’s digital world – helping students make informed, responsible and confident choices.
Years 8 & 9 camps
This week, our Year 8 and Year 9 students enjoyed their much-anticipated camps at Fitzroy Island and Sugarbag Station. These experiences continue to be formative highlights in the boys’ education, offering opportunities for personal development, resilience and teamwork.
A heartfelt thank you to all parents and carers for supporting your sons in preparing for camp. We are also deeply grateful to the staff who facilitated these programs, as well as those who supported activities and classes back at the College this week.
The role of parents and carers in student development
Research continually affirms the significant influence parents and carers have on their children’s development during adolescence. At Saints, we recognise and value the active role you play in your sons' education.
Your engagement reinforces to your sons that their schooling is a shared priority. As a fellow parent of three children, I also appreciate the time and dedication involved in supporting homework, assessments and the wider challenges of raising young men. Parents remain the first and most important educators in a child’s life.
College uniform expectations
Wearing the College uniform correctly reflects pride, discipline and a commitment to the values we uphold at Saints. We have recently reminded students of the importance of presenting themselves in line with college standards. We encourage you to discuss uniform expectations with your sons. Some students may require updated items such as:
- Properly fitting socks (to be worn 5cm below the knee).
- Properly fitting shorts and shirts.
If you have any concerns regarding uniforms, please contact your son’s head of year.
Haircuts and grooming
As we move through the second half of the term, please ensure your sons maintain an appropriate hairstyle in accordance with college guidelines (see p.11 of the Student Diary).
We kindly ask that haircuts are arranged proactively, rather than waiting for reminders from staff. Regular grooming contributes to overall presentation and supports the standards expected of our students.