Religious Education (RE) is a key learning area at St Bede's Primary School. Children have short daily lessons which follow the Brisbane RE Curriculum which ties the teaching of religion with the Religious Life and Catholic Christian ethos of our school community in ways that are mindful of local contexts and the ecumenical and multi-faith realities of contemporary culture. As a community of faith, we pride ourselves on our values, pastoral care, and commitment to fostering the development of every child, challenging them to fulfil their potential in the pursuit of excellence.

Our Parish Priest celebrates multi grade and whole school Masses with the school community at a level that is meaningful and relevant to the children. This, combined with the children’s expression through song, movement, drama and art, adds colour and life to the celebration and enhances their appreciation and understanding of the Eucharist as a religious and faith experience. Our school chaplain is Fr Trenton Van Reesch.

We also celebrate the Feast of St Bede and other yearly feast days. The Feast of St Bede on 25 May is celebrated with Year 6 students organising a school fete. We also support Catholic outreach initiatives and causes through raising funds and awareness.

Catholic children are prepared for the Sacraments of Penance (Reconciliation) and Eucharist in Year 4, and Confirmation in Year 5/6. These programs are parish supported. Parents are invited to develop a better understanding of Christian life through family participation in Sacramental preparations and Parish celebrations.

St Bede’s School Prayer

God, Our Father,

You are with us as we begin this day.

May we show peace in our words and actions.

Help us to learn all we can and do our best always.

Mary, Our Mother, and St Bede help us to be considerate, courteous and cooperative.

We make this prayer through Christ Our Lord.

Amen.

Fr Trenton

Activities/discussion points:

• Join our family mass on Sunday at 9.30 (St Peter Chanel, Yarralumla)
• Identify the various churches as you travel around Canberra
• Talk about your own upbringing or school experience (if raised religious or went to a religious school)
• Talk about prayer
• Read a children's bible
• Discuss the 'uniform' that priests wear
• Talk about Jesus and God
• Talk abour Christmas and Easter