We are delighted to share the inspiring achievements of our exceptional Social Justice Action Group (SJAG) here at St Bede’s. Comprising of dedicated volunteers from Years 3 to 6, this dynamic group of around 20 children has been making waves with their impactful initiatives aimed at making our world a better place.

One of their recent foci, promoting Project Compassion, saw them rallying the entire school community together. Through their efforts, which included baking delicious treats for everyone to enjoy, and the overwhelming generosity of our school community, we are thrilled to announce that they successfully raised an impressive $985!

But their commitment doesn't stop there. The SJAG members meet regularly to brainstorm and discuss ways to contribute positively to our school community. Recently, they crafted heartfelt 'hearts of prayer' for each class, serving as a poignant reminder to students to keep those less fortunate in their thoughts and prayers. These beautiful tokens of empathy now adorn our corridors, filled with prayers from every child in the school for Project Compassion.

Furthermore, a select group of students seized the opportunity to attend a Mini Vinnies afternoon session, where they engaged with peers from other schools to explore avenues for social justice action. It was an enlightening experience for them, as they delved into the various ways, they can contribute to making a difference right here in Canberra, learning about the invaluable services provided by St. Vincent de Paul.

This year SJAG has decided to continue with an initiative started by the Year 6 students last year by sharing with the school, 'Wise Words for the Week.' Starting in Term 2, they will share thought-provoking quotes based on values and the teachings of Jesus during morning assemblies, offering pastoral support and encouragement to their peers.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the SJAG team for their remarkable fundraising efforts thus far, and we eagerly anticipate our next focus: the St. Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. Stay tuned for more details on how you can join us in making a difference.

Together, let us celebrate the power of compassion, empathy, and action exemplified by our outstanding Social Justice Action Group. They are truly shining stars within our school community, lighting the way towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Mrs Dwyer and Miss Mead

Social Justice Action Group Teachers

Wow, what a busy few weeks for sports at St Bede’s. 

On Friday last week we had 17 swimmers attend the South Weston Swimming Carnival at Stromlo Leisure Centre.  With 31 individual entries, we had 23 PB’s and a number of students who will go through to the ACT Championships in May at the AIS.  Well done to all our amazing swimmers and I will let you know once I received the ACT Championships list.

On Wednesday this week our whole school participated in the Cross Country.  The weather really turned it on for us and a fabulous day was had by all.  There were some great results and some champion efforts with lost shoes, extra laps and lots of cheering.  Well done to Polding House for winning the Cross Country House Championships and to all our amazing runners. 

In the coming weeks, I will announce those who have made it through to the South Weston Regional Cross Country to be held at Mt Stromlo in May. 

Upcoming SSACT team trials:

Australian Football (12&U Boys Team)

School Sport Australia Championship: 4 to 10 August, Geelong. Trial information: In addition to attending trials, interested students must register via the SSACT website here: School Sport ACT Australian Football

Trial 1 – Sunday 5 May, 10:00am-12:00pm (Hughes Oval 101 & 102)

Trial 2 – Sunday 12 May, 10:00am-12:00pm (Hughes Oval 101 & 102)

Trial 3 – Invitation only (more information to follow)

Contact: christopher.farmer@act.gov.au

Rugby League (12&U Mixed Team)

School Sport Australia Championship: 3 to 9 August, Canberra.

Trial information: In addition to attending trials, interested students must register via the SSACT website here: School Sport ACT Rugby League

Trial 1: Saturday 4 May, 1:30-4:30pm

Trial 2: Saturday 11 May, 1:30-4:30pm

Trial 3: Saturday 18 May, 1:30-4:30pm (by invitation only)

All trials held at Kaleen District Playing Field (Ground 1) - Fields 124 and 125. Wear a numbered jersey and put jersey number in the “preferred position” section along with the preferred position. Contact: kieran.russell@cg.catholic.edu.au

Softball (12&U Girls and 12&U Boys teams)

School Sport Australia Championship: 12 to 17 October, Cairns QLD.

Trial information: In addition to attending trials, interested students must register via the SSACT website here: School Sport ACT Softball

Trial 1 – Tuesday 2 April, 4:30-6:00pm (boys and girls teams)

Trial 2 – Thursday 11 April, 4:30-6:00pm (boys and girls teams)

Trial 3—Wednesday 8 May, 4:30-6:00pm (boys team only)

All trials held at Hawker Softball Centre. Bring your own softball kit. Catchers bring own catching gear. Shin pads and mouth guards required.

Contact: kate.greeney@ed.act.edu.au (Girls) or debra.sayers@ed.act.edu.au (Boys)

Tennis (12&U Boys & Girls Team)

 School Sport Australia Championship: 17 to 24 August, Darwin.

Trial Information: Students who wish to be considered for selection must compete in the 12&U Tennis Championships to be held on Friday 10 May at Canberra Tennis Centre, Lyneham.

Entries for this event must be organised through School Sport Coordinators and players must have an Australian Ranking and relevant tournament experience. An invitational trial will be held after this event on Wednesday 15 May.

Interested students also need to register for selection via the SSACT website here: School Sport ACT Tennis Contact: margaret.mccaskie@daramalan.act.edu.au

Golf (18&U Boys & Girls Team, 12&U Boys & Girls Team)

School Sport Australia Championship: 18 to 23 August, Canberra.

Trial Information: Students who wish to be considered for selection must compete in the 12&U and 13&O Golf Championships to be held on Monday 6 May at Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club (entries for the event organised through School Sport Coordinators).

Interested students also need to register for selection via the SSACT website here: School Sport ACT Golf Contact: chris.jones2@ed.act.edu.au

The 12&U Golf Team will also be selected from this event but notified later.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with me.

Yours in sport

Elyse Charles

Elyse.charles@cg.catholic.edu.au

The following students received an award in Week 11:

WALK IN LOVE AND PEACE AWARDS

PRINCIPAL'S AWARD