“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”    1 Thessalonians 5:11

As we start Term 4, our staff have been reflecting on what makes our school such a special place. Yes, we have wonderful learning programs, dedicated staff, and energetic students, but what truly sets St Bede’s apart is the way we treat one another. Each day, I am reminded that our community is built in the everyday moments of kindness and respect that our students show.

Just last Monday, I watched a Year 6 student pause their own game at recess to help a Kindergarten child tie their shoelaces. On Wednesday, a group of Year 3 students noticed a classmate sitting alone and invited them to join their handball game, without being prompted. These moments may seem small, but they are the building blocks of a culture where everyone feels seen, included, and valued.

Respectful relationships aren’t just about being polite, they stem from empathy, understanding, and recognising that every person is created in the image of God. Whether it’s working fairly in group projects, waiting our turn to speak in class discussions, showing good sportsmanship during PE, or checking in on a friend who seems upset, these actions shape a safe, loving, and faith filled environment where everyone can thrive.

The scripture verse above speaks to what we strive to live each day at St Bede’s. When we encourage and “build each other up,” we are following Christ’s example of love, compassion, and service. Our school doesn’t just aim to educate minds, we nurture hearts. Every kind word, every respectful conversation, every time we choose inclusion over exclusion, we are living out our mission as a Catholic community grounded in Christ’s love.

As we journey through the term, I encourage every student, parent, and staff member to ask themselves, How can I build someone up today? It may be a smile, a kind word, a helping hand, or simply choosing to speak with care even when we disagree. In Kindergarten, respectful relationships might look like using gentle words when sharing toys. For our Year 2 students, it may involve listening carefully when a friend is speaking. In Year 4, kindness could be shown by offering help to a peer who is struggling with their work. By the time students reach Year 6, it means stepping into their roles as leaders, being positive role models for younger students, and leading with compassion and fairness. Across every grade, these everyday actions form the fabric of our school community.

As we move ahead into the remainder of Term 4, let us continue to foster a community where kindness is a habit, respect is a given, and care for others becomes second nature. 

Regards

Andrew