As we near the end of another term and reflect on our growth through interim reports, we also prepare for the busyness of the term ahead, plan transitions for 2025, and celebrate our achievements. It seems like a relevant time to acknowledge the remarkable student leaders who make our school a vibrant and dynamic place. Leadership is not just about holding a title; it’s about making a difference, inspiring others, and growing together as a community.

Our Year 5/6 camp last week was not just an adventure at Berry Sport and Recreation, but also an opportunity for developing student leadership. Students embraced various roles, from group leaders to problem solvers, each contributing to the camp’s success.  Students stepped outside of their comfort zones, developed relationships and communication skills, considered risks and reinforced the importance of teamwork.  It was an incredibly rewarding experience for our students.  Thank you to Mrs Charles, Mr Baldwin and Mrs Johnston for your care, supervision, and time away from your own families. 

With our Stage 3 leaders away on camp, there was an opportunity for our Year 4 students to step up as leaders. Their true colours shone as they took on the daily responsibilities of their peers. They demonstrated initiative, accountability, and a strong sense of teamwork. From managing sports equipment to running assembly, their efforts were commendable. This experience not only showcased their leadership potential but also fostered a sense of community and responsibility among the students. We look forward to seeing them continue to grow as leaders.

Our student Faith Leaders recently collaborated on a statement to contribute to the Archdiocesan Assembly.  This group of Year 5 students were invited to explore the theme ‘Come Holy Spirit’, grounded in a shared understanding of evangelisation: encounter, discipleship and mission.  Our students asked:

“How can our Church support young people to spread the word of God and embrace the fire of the Holy Spirit within them to better understand and connect with their faith?”

Their response will now be shared within hubs in the archdiocese, raising up a new generation in the life and mission of the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn.  

Last week, three St Bede’s students, Georgia G (4), Oscar H (2) and Annabelle H (2) represented our school in track and field events for the ACT.  This is a huge achievement to reach this level, demonstrating persistence, skill and endurance.  These attributes are useful tools in our tool box, for life.  Congratulations on your achievements. 

Earlier this week, students celebrated another positive behaviour reward.  The Student Representative Council (SRC) nominated a talent show!  And so, St Bede’s Got Talent was born.  In just two weeks, students created, rehearsed and presented their acts to their classes. Finalists from each class then went on to the finale, in front of the whole school!  Not only did they exhibit great talent but courage, determination and resilience.  Well done to all students who embraced the challenge.

Early next term, our Year 5 leaders will begin to prepare for leadership roles in 2025.  They will present leadership speeches to their peers, design their leadership shirts and prepare to receive the light from our current leaders at the end-of-year candle ceremony.  Our Year 6 students will be attending high school orientation days, preparing for graduation and reflecting on their primary school journey through their autobiographies.  We have come so far and we still have so much to look forward to. 

I wish the St Bede’s community a safe and relaxing school holiday break.  I look forward to welcoming Mr Casey and Mrs Heggaton back from long-service leave when we return on Monday 14 October in Term 4. 

Breen Fox

Acting Principal