Learning and Teaching

School Advisory Council:

Are you interested in becoming part of the School Advisory Council (SAC)?

The SAC meets six times annually on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. These meetings provide a valuable platform to stay informed about school initiatives, engage with fellow parents, and contribute to discussions that impact your child’s educational journey.

As we approach the end of 2024, we extend our heartfelt thanks to two of our dedicated members, Paul Bryant (Chairperson) and Mel Scott, who will be stepping down as their children move on to secondary school. We are grateful for their unwavering support and commitment to the SAC.

We also encourage you to read what our current members have shared about their experiences on the SAC.

Warm regards, 

Bernie Turner

“ I joined the school council because I am passionate about making a positive impact in our school community. One of the benefits of being part of the council is that I get access to valuable information about the scope of learning for my daughter, an inside look,   which also helps me stay informed about what’s happening in our school. I appreciate that the meetings are held outside of regular school/work hours, making it possible for me to participate as a full-time working mum. 

 Jo Herberte 

I joined the SAC to be another parent voice (not that I really speak much!), to bring forward concerning matters, gain knowledge into the workings of our school and lend support where possible.

I love that these meetings allow every member to share ideas, thoughts and information, all to make St Brendan’s do well. 

If you want to contribute a little more to your child's time at St Brendan’s, joining the SAC is a worthwhile move. You will gain a solid appreciation for what happens behind the scenes.

As my youngest child graduates next month, I wish St Brendan’s all the best.  

Mel Scott

"I joined the SAC because I liked the idea of coming together with like-minded people discussing school topics, it's also nice to be able to take feedback to the council from other parents and vice versa.

I like that the meetings are after hours so I am able to attend, the group are all so lovely and very welcoming."

Kirby Saunders

“I have 2 children at St Brendan’s, Foundation and Grade 3. Between work, sport 

commitments and life in general it’s difficult to find the time to ask questions regarding school plans moving forward re education, building infrastructure, class sizing, future initiatives and much more. The St Brendan’s Advisory Committee allows an insight to these queries and others such as future enrolments, current initiatives and their success for example the speech pathologist program. I feel valued and welcome each and every meeting. It’s nice to have ideas and input to feel connected with my children’s school growth and future plans.“ 

Jess Ryan

I joined the S.A.C. as a means of showing my gratitude to the staff at St Brendan’s for their understanding, dedication, hard work and enthusiasm towards my granddaughter and all students.

The S.A.C. are not involved in the day to day running of the school, we are a forum for discussion to provide assistance and advice on school matters to support the principal and school leaders.

At various meetings, we have discussed the Master Plan, car parking, enrolments, the new bike shed, Gaga Pit, Learning and Teaching the St Brendan’s Way and many other school related matters.

I leave a S.A.C. meeting content that my input has contributed in a small way to the benefit of both current and future students of St Brendan’s.

Trevor Gilbert

I had considered joining the S.A C some time ago, but finally made the move last year. My wife was very encouraging and thought that I would make a good Chairperson, so when I saw the email from the Principal asking for nominations I put my name forward and was accepted as the Chairman.

I have always been interested in putting my views across and interacting with a like minded group of people that always look for the best outcome for our lovely school. 

With my time on the Council coming to an end this year with my daughter moving on to secondary school, I am both sad to leave but also happy in the fact that I feel I have made a positive effect with my knowledge and contributions over the past 2 years.

For anyone considering applying for the School Advisory Council, I can honestly say that if you feel that you can make a contribution put your name forward and get involved. It will be for the benefit and not only your child/children but all the children in the school. 

Paul Bryant

In 2025, I will have 3 daughters at St Brendan’s- Macie, Ellie and Abby. I joined the School Advisor Council to be a bigger part of my children's education. Being a teacher, I found it hard to get to school for pick up, and being part of the St. Brendan's community by joining the SAC has allowed me to have a bigger insight into the school and my kids' education.

David 

Green Team News 

The sun was shining, but the wind was also blowing hard last Friday when the Green Team came together in Brendan’s Garden. We toured around the garden beds observing which seedlings had grown in the past week and we also checked to see that all the garden beds were being watered sufficiently. It was decided the pumpkins needed some extra water as well as some of the zucchinis which seemed to be struggling. We were disappointed to find that our capsicums had been dug up from the soil and we think this was done by some birds looking for worms. We all agreed it can be very challenging working alongside mother nature!

The next task the students completed in their Green Team class pairs was to plant a tomato or capsicum seedling and water it in thoroughly. It was great to see and hear the teamwork as each pair discussed the steps needed to successfully complete the planting. We have now planted 16 cherry tomato plants, so we are expecting a bumper crop of cherry tomatoes by early next year. 

The favourite job of the Green Team is always harvesting the produce. Regardless of whether the students enjoy eating the vegetable or fruit, they are always keen to help with the picking. This week, it was time to harvest our broad beans. Most students claimed they either did not like them or had never tried them. Many of the students took some home to try, hopefully they decide fresh broad beans are actually quite tasty.

Here are some photos of the Green Team in action.