"But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away."Matthew 13: 25

In our everyday lives, whether at school, at home, or out in the wider world, we are constantly faced with choices. Some are small and simple, like what to wear or what to eat. Others feel much bigger, like how we treat those around us or how we respond when things don’t go the way we hope. Recent events in the news remind us just how important decisions can be, especially when they’re made by those in positions of responsibility.

At St Bede’s, we take time regularly to talk with our students about what it really means to make a good choice. These aren’t always the easiest decisions, and sometimes they aren’t the most popular ones either. But good choices are the ones that come from kindness, fairness, and respect. They might look like a Kindergarten student sharing toys with a new friend at playtime, a Year 6 student including someone feeling left out during recess, speaking the truth even when it’s hard, or pausing to calm ourselves instead of reacting with anger when a game doesn’t go our way.

We also remind our students and ourselves, that good and bad influences can be found everywhere, even within our own hearts and minds. Just like a garden grows both beautiful flowers weeds, each of us carries strengths and weaknesses. But the wonderful thing is that every day gives us a fresh chance to learn, to grow, and to try again.

The Gospel story that includes the verse above, speaks beautifully to this idea. Jesus tells of a farmer who sows good seed in his field, but finds weeds growing among the wheat. This parable gently reminds us that good and bad often grow side by side in life. And sometimes, it’s not our job to pull out the weeds immediately, but rather to allow time for growth, reflection, and understanding.

This message fits perfectly with our school community. Children are learning how to grow, not just in knowledge, but in kindness, honesty, and resilience. They will make mistakes and sometimes act without thinking, and that’s okay. Like the farmer in the parable, our role is to be patient, nurturing, and encouraging. We are here to help every student discover their unique strengths and to support them on their journey. Whether it’s a student trying to speak up in class for the first time, a student helping lead a team, or choosing to do their best even when the work is hard, every step is a part of their growth.

As adults, we know that children watch and learn from us every day. They notice how we speak, how we face challenges, and the values we live by. Together, as a caring school community, we can guide our children toward becoming thoughtful, responsible, and compassionate individuals.

regards

Andrew

A reminder to parents of students in Years 2 to 6 that permission and payment for the Boorowa Touch and Netball Gala Day must be completed by Wednesday13 August.

Unfortunately, no late approvals will be accepted. This deadline is essential to allow time for transport arrangements and team organisation. Please ensure you give permission via Compass and finalise payment by the due date to avoid disappointment. 

Thank you for your support and understanding.

We are pleased to offer a variety of lunchtime clubs for students to enjoy throughout the week. These clubs provide wonderful opportunities for children to engage in activities that support their interests, build friendships, and develop new skills.

Our current lunchtime clubs are:

• Monday – Wriggly Activities in the Hall

• Tuesday – Mini Vinnies

• Wednesday – Dance Club

• Thursday – Bush Activities

• Friday – Chess and Board Games

We are delighted to announce that Mrs Lisa Wright and Mrs Elyse Charles will be the Kindergarten teachers at St Bede’s Primary School in 2026. Both Lisa and Elyse will continue to build on their success in 2025. We know our newest learners will thrive in their care.

We are also excited to share that Kindy-Set-Go, our preschool transition and readiness program, is now underway. This program supports a smooth and positive start to school and includes both online and onsite components.

The online component runs across approximately 20 weeks and provides weekly updates, helpful information, and simple activities designed to prepare children and families or a confident start to school life.

The onsite component begins in Term 4 and includes five special sessions with Mrs Wright and Mrs Charles. During these sessions, children will become familiar with the St Bede’s routines, explore their new learning environment, and begin forming friendships with their 2026 classmates.

We look forward to welcoming our new Kindergarten families and sharing this important journey together.

On Wednesday evening, our students celebrated the Sacrament of First Reconciliation. This was a special and prayerful occasion, marking an important step in their faith journey. We are proud of the way the children approached this moment with reverence and maturity.

A sincere thank you to our dedicated Year 3 and Year 4 teachers for preparing their classes. Thank you also to Mrs Stonham for her leadership and organisation, and to Fr Paul, Fr Rofin and Fr Daniel for guiding and supporting the children through the sacrament.

We continue to keep these students in our prayers as they grow in their understanding of God’s love and forgiveness.

A big thank you to Megan Edwards for her time and commitment in managing the St Bede’s Snow Sports Team last week. We are grateful for the support and organisation that allowed our students to enjoy such a unique and memorable experience on the slopes. Our small team had some terrific success.

We also extend our sincere thanks to Mrs Baldwin, Mrs Heggaton, and Mr Egan for their continued work with the Indigenous Garden and Yarning Circle. Their care and dedication are helping to create a space that fosters connection, learning, and respect for culture and country.

The School Choir will be leading the singing at the First Holy Communion Mass. This will be held at St. Christopher's Cathedral on Wednesday 27th August at 5.30pm.

The following students received an award in Week 2:

WALK IN LOVE AND PEACE AWARDS

PRINCIPAL'S AWARD