Learning and Teaching

2021 School Year

The commencement of the 2021 school year has held many changes from eras past for St Bede’s. Prior to 2021, I have admired from afar the quality of boys’ education provided at Mentone and the character of the school; I am indeed very fortunate to be able to now experience it first-hand as a new staff member. This year, however, does present significant changes that are taking place as we speak. As the school enters a new era, St Bede’s and the education it provides will continue evolve and the community grow.

Education in the shadow of the pandemic has changed, with many educators asking us not to forget the lessons learnt through working in a remote setting. With the recent brief lockdown, our ability to smoothly transition to remote learning and back was apparent. Whilst the situation may have caused initial apprehension, as a community what was apparent was our willingness to reach out and help others. Whilst having the power to divide, I have certainly seen evidence that would suggest it has brought us closer. 

Our students too, may well have been imbued with some abilities that, whilst not intentional, have allowed them to be more resilient, self-aware and adaptable. These abilities will not just serve them well in their schooling, but will equip them to deal with a constantly changing world. Asking questions, seeking support and problem solving is required to navigate this process; as adults, we can play our part by helping them negotiate this.

In a more practical sense, St Bede’s as a school is also negotiating the transition to operating as a two-campus school. In support of this, learning and teaching at the school is to become aligned across both campuses over the course of 2021 and into 2022. The first explicit steps in this process have been taken, with Learning Area Leaders from both campuses beginning to work together and plan how this might look. In looking at the practices that serve the students across both campuses, we are in a fortunate position that allows us to utilise the best of what is on offer. 

As a result, the teaching and learning will continue to evolve as part of this process, involving all teaching staff as we bring to life the school of ‘two campuses, one community’. We certainly look forward to engaging in this process and what lies ahead.

Academic Awards 2020

Congratulations to all of the following recipients for their Academic Awards held on

Monday 1 March.  A special mention to John Freeman (Year 12) for his exceptional performance and singing of 'Mr Cellophane' from the Musical Chicago.

Brenden Mair

Deputy Principal

Teaching and Learning