Co-Curricular
Together We Achieve More
It is with great excitement that I introduce myself as the new Director of Co-Curricular at St Patrick’s College, Strathfield. After two rewarding years at The Armidale School in regional New South Wales, I am delighted to return to Sydney and join the St Patrick’s community.
My time in Armidale was both professionally and personally enriching. The Armidale School’s strong sense of community, commitment to service and emphasis on participation provided countless opportunities to work alongside outstanding students, families and staff. Whether supporting sporting teams across regional NSW, celebrating achievements in music and the arts, embracing outdoor education experiences or witnessing the unique camaraderie that develops within a boarding school environment, I saw first-hand the power of co-curricular involvement to build confidence, resilience and character in young people. These experiences reinforced my belief that every student benefits when they are encouraged to contribute, engage and belong.
I warmly welcome all students and families back for Term 3 and congratulate everyone who participated in holiday activities and representative opportunities over the break. In particular, I acknowledge the students and staff involved in our immersion programs to Papua New Guinea and Central Australia. These experiences reflect the spirit of service, learning and community that sits at the heart of a St Patrick’s education and embody the values we seek to foster in our young men.
My values of effort, engagement and inclusivity align strongly with the EREA Touchstones, particularly Liberating Education, Justice and Solidarity and Gospel Spirituality. These values are reflected in the way we approach co-curricular life at St Patrick’s College. Our vision is centred on fostering teamwork, camaraderie, school pride and competition, creating environments where students can challenge themselves, support one another and develop a genuine sense of belonging. Through co-curricular participation, students learn lessons that extend well beyond the sporting field, stage or activity itself, building character, resilience and lifelong friendships.
As Helen Keller famously said,
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
This sentiment captures the strength of our College community and reminds us that our greatest achievements are often realised when we work together in pursuit of a common goal.
I am looking forward to our collective spirit being on display at next week’s Back to Breen Day, a wonderful celebration of our College history, spirit and community. If you see me on the sidelines over the coming weekends, please do not hesitate to introduce yourself and have a chat. I look forward to getting to know many more students, families and supporters of the College.
To all students and families travelling for sporting commitments this weekend, particularly those heading beyond Sydney, I wish you safe travels and every success. As always, please remember that when representing St Patrick’s College, we do so with pride, humility and respect. Our conduct, both on and off the field, should reflect the values of the College and the privilege of wearing the Blue, Black and Gold.
As we begin this new term together, I encourage every student to embrace the opportunities that co-curricular life provides. Whether through sport, performing arts, music or service, success is built through participation, commitment and the willingness to support others. I look forward to celebrating the achievements, friendships and experiences that will make this term a memorable one for our College community. Thank you for the warm welcome I have already received. I am excited to work alongside students, families and staff as we continue to build a vibrant, inclusive and thriving co-curricular culture at St Patrick’s College.
Lachlan Fear
Director of Co-Curricular