National Reconciliation Week

St Edmund’s College and Edmund Rice Education Australia are committed to a genuine spirit of reconciliation. One of the four Touchstones that guide our Edmund Rice education at the College is Liberating Education. A Liberating Education aims to “open hearts and minds… so that through critical reflection and engagement each person is hope-filled and free to build a better world for all”. We hope that our students leave the College with open minds and discernment.

At the heart of reconciliation is listening and seeking to understand. Unfortunately, active listening and a genuine desire to understand are not as prominent as they should be in our community. Often, we are hearing people voicing their view without the desire to listen to and learn from others. We encourage our students to look for deeper understanding in the world around them, ask important questions, and be confident in taking action to build a better world for all.

National Reconciliation Week aims to deepen Australians’ understanding of our shared histories, cultures and achievements and explore how we can contribute to reconciliation in Australia. It aims to provide focus and opportunity for us to work towards making a just, equitable and reconciled Australia.

National Reconciliation Week is celebrated each year in Australia from 27 May – 3 June. These two dates are significant dates in our history:

• 27 May marks the anniversary of the 1967 referendum when Australians voted to remove clauses in the Australian Constitution that discriminated against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• 3 June marks the historic 1992 Mabo decision in which the High Court of Australia recognised native title—the recognition that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ rights over their lands did survive British colonisation.

The week is preceded by National Sorry Day on 26 May. National Sorry Day was first held in 1998 and is commemorated nationally and honours and remembers the Stolen Generations.

A recent Edmund Rice Education Australia Council publication articulates very clearly the teachings of Blessed Edmund and how this hope-filled and liberating education works in our context. It provides a good example of how to approach and understand complex issues in our world.

Edmund was called to see the big picture beyond the pragmatic. He was asked to address the deeper questions, those that go beyond the immediate, to the heart and soul. He had to draw on his faith in the hope that his decisions were the right ones.

In the Christian tradition this is called ‘discernment’: the ability to look deeply into the implications of our decisions and seek ‘the good spirit’ and remove outside influences and distractions from the truth.

Edmund has passed on to us the process of discernment and we are called to be true to this challenge. Let’s consider the ‘Voice’ discussion in our community at present. We can focus on the immediate implications, the constitutional issues, the cost, even the right to have a voice.

But Edmund calls us to go deeper to a greater understanding of this decision. The deeper examination of this draws us back to understanding questions about dispossession, stolen generations, disintegrated families, and the personal cost of colonisation to our First Nations People.

If we can consider the deeper questions, examine the implications of past actions, and find the good spirit in our considerations we are more likely to make the right choice. The legacy of Blessed Edmund is an indication of his ability to discern. Our challenge is to do the same.

In the words of Pope Francis: “Discerning what is and what is not of God, we begin to see where and how to act. When we find where God’s mercy is waiting to overflow, we can open the gates and work with all people of goodwill to bring about the necessary changes.”

Edmund made decisions with a heart full of faith, hope, and love. We carry that motivation, that charism in our hearts today and pray that we may look deeper than the immediate, into the soul and spirit of our nation, our very own EREA, our families and ourselves.

Prayer for Reconciliation
God of all creation,
as we journey together in this Great Southern Land,
we pray for healing, forgiveness and unity,
creating a path of good will, with justice and compassion.
Jesus, through the power of your love, you have given us the courage, wisdom and strength to share our gifts and talents in humility.
In peace and understanding we reconcile with each other.
Creator Spirit, we come together in prayer and thanksgiving for the many blessings we have received. Allow your Spirit to wash over us and give us strength to walk together as one.
This Reconciliation Church prayer was written by a small group of Aboriginal Elder women and Reconciliation Church staff members in 2014

Ian Garrity
Acting Principal
Christus Lux Mea

Founder’s Day

St Edmund’s College celebrated our Founder’s Day on the feast of Blessed Edmund Rice, 5 May. On a beautiful sunny day, we commenced the day with a wonderful Mass attended by current staff and students and representatives from our brother and sister Catholic Colleges from across the ACT. The boys then participated in a range of games and activities for the remainder of the day. The day was a wonderful community celebration.
As we do every year, the College acknowledges the significant contribution that staff have made to the St Edmund’s Community through our Service Awards, as well as recognise outstanding service to our community by an old boy, a current student and a current member of staff through the Br Matt McKeon Faith and Service Awards. This year’s recipients are:

Br Matt McKeon Faith and Service Awards
Connor Moloney (student)
Fred Zarb (staff)
Tony LoPilato (old boy)

Staff Service Awards (10 years of service)
Samantha Brady
Julie Dachs
Margaret Maher

Staff Service Awards (15 years of service)
Anna Blore
Denzil Fox
Martin O’Rourke
Nathan Rutter
Colin Rogers

Our Charism

It is appropriate at this time of year that we reflect on the work of Blessed Edmund Rice and how his mission is lived out at the College in 2023. St Edmund’s College is one of over fifty schools across Australia, who are currently governed by Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA). Prior to 2007, these schools were previously owned and run by the Christian Brothers.

Edmund Rice was born in Callan, Ireland in 1762 and lived in Waterford as a young man. Edmund was a successful businessman and married in 1789. Following the tragic death of Edmund’s wife, Edmund deepened his relationship with God and was moved to compassion and to recognise the needs of those around him.

Many people lived in poverty in oppression in Ireland at the time. Edmund found that liberation was at the heart of Jesus’ preaching. Edmund set up a school in 1802 for boys living in poverty and provided other necessities like food, clothing and shelter for them. In addition to basic skills, Edmund educated the boys about God and the Catholic faith. His aim was to free them from their sense of hopelessness.
Other men joined Edmund in the coming years and they were professed as Brothers in 1808. By 1925 Edmund and his thirty Brothers were providing free education to over five thousand boys in twelve towns. The Christian Brothers also expanded beyond Ireland in 1825.

In 1868, Brother Ambrose Treacy and three companions arrived in Australia. Starting with very little, the Brothers eventually opened one hundred and twenty schools in Australia.
EREA continue the mission of the Catholic Church and the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice in their fifty-five schools today. Their EREA Charter guides our Colleges, it assists schools

to offer a liberating education, based on a Gospel spirituality, within an inclusive community committed to justice and solidarity.

All of our schools use the four Touchstones to guide our practices and set the direction of each College. They are the foundation of who we are and what we do, and help us to understand our mission and charism as an Edmund Rice school. The Touchstones are alive and visible in the St Edmund’s community.

Prayer for Blessed Edmund Rice
O God we thank you for the life of Blessed Edmund Rice.
He opened his heart to Christ present in those oppressed by poverty and injustice.
May we follow his example of faith and generosity.
Grant us the courage and compassion of Blessed Edmund
as we seek to live lives of love and service.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen

Ian Garrity
Acting Principal
Christus Lux Mea

The Power of Silence

Silence can be a powerful form of communication. It can convey many thoughts and emotions – calmness, tranquillity, reflection and a desire to listen to name a few. It often conveys respect, and this was on display in abundance on two occasions last week.

Each year I try and attend the ANZAC Day football match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. I was fortunate enough to experience this occasion again last Tuesday with my wife and son. The highlight of the day is never the football, even though it was a wonderful contest this year. The memorable part of the day was again the ANZAC Ceremony. There is a motorcade of veterans followed by the Observance Ceremony. This year, there were over 95,000 people in attendance.

The silence immediately following the Last Post is so powerful. It shouts respect, solidarity and gratitude for all of the men and women, and their families, who have sacrificed so much for our us and our country. It is a privilege to be able to participate in such a powerful ceremony.

ANZAC Day is a day of great significance to all Australians, and it is particularly important to members of the St Edmund’s College community because of our heritage as a war memorial school.  When the Christian Brothers made the decision to build a new school in Canberra, it was decided very early on in the process that St Edmund’s would be a memorial to all the old boys of Christian Brothers’ Schools in Australia who had given their lives in service of our country.

In 1951, parents and boys in every Christian brother’s school across the nation were asked to contribute to building the memorial. The boys were told that if each of them could contribute the cost of one brick, that would be 25,000 bricks for the new school. When we reflect on the fact that some of the very foundations of our school were paid for, through the donations of shillings from families all across Australia, it highlights why ANZAC Day is of such significance to the St Edmund’s College community and the enormous responsibility and honour that this brings.

It was so very pleasing that our boys communicated great respect, solidarity and gratitude through their silence for our service men and women during the ANZAC Ceremony that occurred on Wednesday 26 April at the College. We currently have over 100 students who are the sons of parents who are active service men and women. All of our students engaged in the ceremony appropriately and maturely, and listened keenly to the addresses that were made during the assembly.

The College was very fortunate to have Brigadier Meggitt (father of Henry) address the assembly. Brigadier Meggitt is an experienced military officer who has had extensive operational experience and been recognised with several commendations and awards. Brigadier Meggitt reflected on the ANZAC Spirit and how our boys can show courage, resilience and mateship in their everyday lives.

I would like to thank Ms Brenda Galvin, staff and students involved in preparations, and our guests from the defence forces in providing such a powerful ANZAC Ceremony. I would also like to acknowledge Will Collett for his drive and effort in getting donations to upgrade our memorial monuments and all the families that donated funds for this work.

Inclusive Community

I would like to acknowledge the work of the St Edmund’s College Old Boys and Friends Association and advertise a number of events that have been arranged for 2023. In addition to the regular opportunities for parents and carers to engage with the College including parent teacher interviews, information nights, co-curricular activities, musicals and exhibitions to name a few, the College in partnership with the Association have arranged the following social events for parents and carers this year.

Please consider attending one, two or even three of these events so that you can meet other parents and carers, staff and old boys and friends of the school community.
Further information can be found on the College website – https://sec.act.edu.au/old-boys-friends/.
Tickets for Edmums Soiree and the Blue and White Ball will be available in the next few days. You can access tickets through the link above.

Edmums Soiree – Friday 2 June at the Marion on Regatta Point
This event will be held from midday on Friday 2 June. All mothers, grandmothers and carers of current students and Old Boys are invited to attend this occasion.

Blue & White Ball  – 28 July 2023 at the Hellenic Club Woden
This is a fantastic night of entertainment for the Eddies community and gets bigger and better each year.

Heritage Round / Reunion Day – Saturday 29 July at St Edmund’s College
This event coincides with the Eddies v Marist rugby matches and is an opportunity to reflect on the heritage of the College, as well as a day that old boys are encouraged to attend and reunite. The day will commence with a Mass at 10am in the College Chapel. This will be followed by a morning tea at 11am and a tour of the College and an opportunity to watch the rugby.

Eddies Golf Day, Friday 10 November, Fairbairn Golf Club
This is a 9-hole four-person Ambrose event commencing with a complimentary lunch from 2pm and a 3pm shot-gun tee-off, followed by a presentation of prizes in the clubhouse from 5pm. No golfing experience is required, just a willingness to have fun. There will also be an informal afternoon tea and a presentation of prizes in the clubhouse commencing from about 5:00pm.

Dear Lord,
Grant that we may live each day to the full, inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Let us cast away all worries and concerns into your divine care.
Christus Lux Mea
Give us strength to confront all challenges that we face with hope and faith.
Let our community seek truth in all that we search for.
Christus Lux Mea
Let us stand for others always giving generously without counting the cost.
Blessed Edmund Rice
Pray for us
Live Jesus in our hearts
forever
Amen

Ian Garrity
Acting Principal
Christus Lux Mea

As we come to the end of Term 1, I hope that you take the opportunity to reflect on your son’s application and progress over the term. Progress reports will be released to parents in the next day or two, so parents will be able to use this additional information to engage in conversation with their son/s. I ask that all parents and carers have this conversation and congratulate their boys if they have applied themselves really well to their learning this year, and discuss strategies and goals with their sons if their application has not been as good as it should be.

There are many ways for parents and carers to be informed about their son’s progress and application. Junior School parents and carers will have direct contact with their son’s teacher, and parents and carers of Yrs 7-12 students are encouraged to look through results and feedback provided by each subject teacher in CANVAS. Parents and carers are also encouraged to attend the Parent/Teacher Interviews evenings that are happening at the start of Term 2. Further instructions about making bookings will be provided with the Progress Reports.

The dates and times of the Parent/Teacher Interviews are below:

• Junior School – Thursday 27 April (from 4.00pm)
• High School – Wednesday 26 April and Thursday 27 April (also from 4.00pm)

Experience Eddies Day and Open Day

We have begun our enrolment events for students and families enrolling in 2024. Two of these events occurred recently. They were Experience Eddies Day, which occurred on Monday 27 March, and the College Open Evening, which was held on Wednesday 29 March. Both events were well attended. The most pleasing aspect of these events was the generous contribution of our student volunteers, particularly at Open Evening. It was wonderful to see some many of our boys give up their time after school to assist us with promoting the College.   

Happy Easter

During Easter, we are reminded of the many blessings that God has bestowed upon us. We remember the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross to save us from our sins. It is a time of great joy and celebration, as we give thanks for the new life that Christ has given us, and we are reminded of the immense love and sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross.

Jesus teaches us about the power of prayer and how it can draw us closer to God during this sacred time. Our 2023 scriptural theme, “Everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks finds. Everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Luke 11:9-10), reminds us that if we ask God for anything in faith, he will always listen to us and help us in our times of need.
Our scriptural theme may be particularly meaningful to students who may feel overwhelmed by school or personal challenges, as it reminds us that we are not alone, and that God is always with us, providing us with strength and guidance.
Whilst Easter is a time of great joy and celebration, it is also a time for reflection. It is a time to give thanks for the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and to renew our faith in God. As we celebrate Easter, let us remember the importance of prayer and the many blessings that God has given us.
I wish you a safe, happy and holy Easter.

Loving God,
the resurrection of Your Son
has given us new life and renewed hope.
Help us to live as new people
in pursuit of the Christian ideal.
Grant us wisdom to know what we must do,
the will to want to do it,
the courage to undertake it,
the perseverance to continue to do it,
and the strength to complete it.
Amen

Blessed Edmund Rice                      Pray for Us
Live Jesus in Our Hearts                 Forever

Ian Garrity
Acting Principal
Christus Lux Mea

Inclusive Community

Many communities and organisations, including St Edmund’s College, celebrated and acknowledged Harmony Day yesterday. This day commenced in 1999 in Australia and is now celebrated in many countries around the world. Two key values that are the focus of the day are Respect and Inclusion.

The identity and culture of schools in the Edmund Rice Tradition are articulated through four Touchstones which are described in the Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) Charter. The four Touchstones are: Liberating Education, Gospel Spirituality, Inclusive Community and Justice and Solidarity

It seems fitting this week to reflect on our Touchstone – Inclusive Community. This Touchstone asks that ‘Our Community is accepting and welcoming, fostering right relationships and commitment to the common good’. Although we are not perfect, I believe that this is one of the strengths of our College community. We have a very rich and diverse community, and in general, we live in harmony with respect and inclusion.

The EREA Charter challenges us to be an inclusive community by welcoming and valuing all members of the community regardless of religion, race, disability, gender, sexual orientation or economic situation. More specifically, this also means that the College:

• provides pastoral care that nurtures the dignity of each person,
• demonstrates a preferential option for the poor by standing in solidarity with those who are powerless and marginalised,
• promotes social inclusion and views diversity as beneficial to a liberating education,
• acknowledges the traditional ownership and cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia, and welcomes them into its community, and
• works in partnership with the local Catholic community and Church in serving the broader mission of the whole Church.

The College embraces its diverse cultures and has had many success stories with regard to inclusion. We should; however, always reflect on how we can do better, and in this circumstance, we should continue to ask ourselves these reflective questions from our Charter.

How can we continue to seek ways of inviting every person to the table?

Does our day-to-day operations meet the diverse needs of all of our community members?

How do we overcome the challenges that prevent us being ‘open to all’.

Sometimes our mission can seem broad and complicated; however, in this case our mission as members of the College community may be able to be simplified. As a proud Catholic school, we aspire to follow the example of Jesus, as stated in John (15:12) ‘This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you’.

I would ask parents and carers to do two things this week. Firstly, talk to your son/s about how they feel at school – do they feel welcome, respected and valued. Secondly, if they do not feel welcome, respected and valued, I invite you to make contact with me to make a time to have a conversation about this. We need to continue to work on this important aspect of our work. As mentioned above, I believe inclusion is a strength of the College, but there is always room for improvement.

Prayer for Inclusion
(Andrew M. Greeley Centre for Catholic Education)
Lord, give us new strength so that we can build places of belonging.
To create a community for all to share their gifts,
To know that each of us is loved,
To help us to see the light of Christ in all that we serve.
Let us remember that each of us is loved, each of us is willed, and each of us is necessary.
May we balance mercy and justice so that we can achieve equity and access for all of Your children.
We do this in Your name.
AMEN

Blessed Edmund Rice                      Pray for Us
Live Jesus in Our Hearts                 Forever

Ian Garrity
Acting Principal
Christus Lux Mea

Dear families and friends of St Edmund’s College,

Opening Mass and Commissioning of College Leaders

My highlight of the last two weeks was the 2023 Opening School Mass and Commissioning of College Leaders that was held at St Christopher’s Cathedral on Friday 24 February. Coming together as a school community to celebrate Mass at St Christopher’s is special.

There was a strong sense of Eddies pride on display by our students. They walked down to the Cathedral on a beautiful morning and engaged respectfully in the celebration. A memorable part of the Mass was the commissioning of our 2023 student leaders. The parents presented their sons with their leadership stoles and badges to signify the important responsibility of these roles in a memorable ceremony. The College is blessed to have such quality leaders in the High School and Junior School this year. We look forward to working with them this year.

Strategic Directions 2023 – 2025

The College worked on forming its new three-year strategic directions during Semester 2, 2022. In setting its direction, the College Leadership Team and School Advisory Council looked through responses from a variety of surveys completed by students, staff and parents in the previous twelve months, met with community members and engaged in a planning day at the College on a Saturday. The outcome of this process is a new strategic document with a refined vision and mission, and five key priority areas containing a number of identified growth opportunities for the College. Below are some of the key parts to the 2023 – 2025 Strategic Directions.

Vision

To develop boys into young men of vibrant spirit and strong character through tailored learning experiences. We do this in the context of authentic, dynamic and relational Catholic educational community.

Mission

Catholic school in the tradition of Blessed Edmund Rice, we continually strive to nurture and inspire our students, challenging them to be the best they can be. We offer an innovative and liberating education, based on Gospel spirituality, within an inclusive community committed to justice and solidarity. We encourage young men to be aspirational regarding their future, to develop a social conscience, to think critically and contribute positively to a world beyond St Edmund’s.

Key Priorities and Focus Areas

1. Mission and Identity: As a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition, we recognise that spiritual and religious formation are foundational elements of our identity, reflecting the EREA Charter and Touchstones. We offer our community a lived experience of an engaged spirituality, inspired by the life of Jesus and in the tradition of Blessed Edmund Rice.
   1. Retreat and Immersion Programs
   2. Faith Formation and Service Learning
   3. Sacramental Life
2. Teaching and Learning: We engage each student in relevant and dynamic learning experiences, so they can realise their full potential in an atmosphere of high-quality teaching, through a broad and tailored curriculum.
   1. Investing in Relationships
   2. Review and Refresh Curriculum Delivery
   3. Student Self-regulation
   4. Effective use of data to the wellbeing of each community member
3. Wellbeing: The College is committed to the wellbeing of each community member (students, staff, parents and others) and provides an environment that builds and sustains dignity, respect, resilience and the capacity for quality relationships.
   1. Holistic growth and personal formation
   2. Connectedness and engagement
   3. Safeguarding Standards
4. Community: We are a welcoming diverse and inclusive community that fosters right relationships and works towards the common good of our students, staff, parents, alumni and the wider community.
   1. Statement of Eddies Pride
   2. Partnerships and pathways
   3. Parent, staff and old boys engagement
5. Stewardship and Sustainability: We aim to ensure long-term sustainability of the College in a competitive educational setting. This aim includes continuing to work towards strengthening our environmental stewardship, sustainable provision of ICT infrastructure and connectivity, and the development of responsible business and marketing plans, policies and practices for our continued growth.
   1. ICT systems and services
   2. Teaching and Learning resources
   3. Master Plan / Facilities

Staff at the College look forward to working towards these prioritise in our day to day work over the next three years. The full version of the Strategic Directions 2023 – 2025 can be found on the College website.

St Edmund’s College Prayer

Dear Lord, Grant that we may live each day to the full, inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Let us cast away all worries and concerns into your divine care.
Christus Lux Mea
Give us strength to confront all challenges that we face with hope and faith.
Let our community seek truth in all that we search for.
Christus Lux Mea
Let us stand for others always giving generously without counting the cost.
Blessed Edmund Rice Pray for us
Live Jesus in our hearts forever.

Ian Garrity
Acting Principal
Christus Lux Mea

“Everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. Everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:9-10

Dear families and friends of St Edmund’s College,

Last week saw a large number of our students experience the first of our camp and retreat events.  Year 12 students had a retreat experience in Jindabyne; Year 7 students from many different primary schools were united in their camp program at Tathra, hopefully coming back feeling more like one strong Eddies group; Year 6 had their camp at Tuross and Year 11 students had a Leadership Day at school. Year 10 students will experience their camp program later this term.

Our camp and retreat program offers a number of great benefits.  Our students have an opportunity to meet and socialise with peers from diverse backgrounds, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and develop new friendships. This helps students build communication and teamwork skills, as well as self-confidence.  Students can explore their interests, beliefs, and values in a safe and supportive space. Students grow in areas such as independence, decision-making, self-awareness, leadership and their sense of spirituality.

Camps and retreats often offer hands-on learning opportunities, such as outdoor activities or workshops, allowing students to learn new skills or explore topics in depth. Students apply what they have learned in a practical way, fostering a sense of curiosity.  Camps and retreats also provide opportunities for students to take on leadership roles, which may be through leading a group activity or supporting other students. This develops skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Year 11 and 12 can be a stressful time for many students, with academic pressures and social dynamics adding to the mix. The Year 12 retreat offers a chance to step away from the everyday routine and relax in a different environment, reducing stress and promoting mental health.

Our year-based, age-appropriate camp and retreat programs target key developmental stages. It is very important for a boys’ school to offer a staged camp and retreat program, as research tells us that these experiences are integral to the positive development of young males.  This becomes more relevant as we move further along our contemporary age and we tend to lose more of our experiences of rites of passage. Our young men are increasingly engaging in dangerous risk-taking behaviours, often feel unseen and lost and are increasing relying on the internet to make their transition during adolescence.  A strong camp and retreat program allows our boys the opportunities to see themselves as belonging to part of a tangible community, allowing them to share experiences that they would otherwise not experience in their lives and allows them to discern their relationships with each other.  The Year 12 retreat broadens this further by asking our young men to discern their place in the world, with their families and with their sense of spirituality.  The camp and retreat programs mark a journey of personal and communal growth and allows our students to experience a sense of rites of passage.  When we add to this the range of other wellbeing and co-curricular experiences offered by the College throughout the year, we end up with a rich program of rituals and experiences which should work to having our young men transition from one stage of awareness to a more enlightened state of self-consciousness and spiritual consciousness so as to achieve their full potential. I thank our students for engaging in their various programs in the way they did.  I also thank the staff for giving of their time for the benefit of our young men and for the experience of working to provide them with appropriate rites of passage.

 New Families Welcome Function

We held our annual New Families Welcome Function on Thursday evening 9 February. It was a great sign that because of larger numbers we had to move this event from the Edmund Rice Centre to the College Hall.  Many thanks to all new parents who attended this event and to all staff who attended to make our new parents feel very welcome. Many thanks also to Carlie Gibson who spoke to our new parents on behalf of the Old Boys and Friends Association, informing them of the many benefits of being a part of the Association. We had a wonderful evening of good food, drink and good company.  We trust our new families have had a positive start to the year.  We look forward to our partnership in education with them.

Experience Eddies Day and Open Evening

Our first Experience Eddies Day has been scheduled for Monday 27 March 2023.  This is for students in Years 4, 5, 6 and 7 who may be interested in joining our community in 2024.  The details for Experience Eddies Day can be found at this Facebook link.

In the same week, we are holding our Open Evening and 2024 Information Session for prospective students on Wednesday 29 March from 4.30 to 7.15 with two information sessions at 4.30 and 6.30.
Please pass on this information to any families you know of who are considering St Edmund’s for their sons.

Ash Wednesday

This week we participated in our Ash Wednesday liturgy, marking the beginning of Lent. Ashes were distributed during this liturgy.   For Catholics, ashes are a symbol of penance made sacramental by the blessing of the Church, and they help us develop a spirit of humility and sacrifice, a spirit that allows us to enter the Lenten season with an appropriate state of mind and state of heart. Often we talk about giving something up for Lent – but this can be quite a superficial thing to do, as it often does not accompany a change in our behaviour and thinking.  Many of us use Lent as a kick-starter for a diet or new exercise regimen, almost like a new year’s resolution.  Lent is much more than this.  Lent is a preparation for Easter and leads up to the Passion of Christ, so a simple focus on giving up coffee or chocolate or whatever it may be does not prepare us appropriately for this.  This kind of sacrifice is misguided. The following is adapted from a beautiful Lenten commentary by the writer Alex Basile.

Lent should be about living the Gospel every day. The Gospels are defined as the life, teachings, Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. To get to the heart of its message, we must examine how Jesus lived. We may be surprised that the actions of Jesus were consistently simple. He spent every moment pulling the lost and forgotten back into the fold. In other words, Lent should initiate our awareness of those who need the most attention. There are many people who live in our shadow that require our immediate care. The lonely need to hear the voice of compassion. The sick demand our companionship. The alienated call out for friendship. Our broken relationships need the assistance that only the love of Christ can repair.  We need the sacrifice our pride and out time to live this out.

Lent requires a redefinition of the word “sacrifice.”  We assume that the word “sacrifice” means giving something away or denying ourselves of something. Lent should raise our awareness of the things we take for granted. Our Lenten sacrifice highlights our free will. Since creation, God has left us to our own devices to choose our own path. During this season, we must reflect on what we have and what we need to change. We hear of how Christians are persecuted in other countries for their faith. In a country where we say and do as we please, are we giving Jesus and those around us all that we truly can?

Lent is time for spiritual “spring cleaning.”  What are the unwanted habits that you want to eliminate from your life? What are the certain behavioural patterns that make you less than the perfect Christian does?  The way to answer these questions is through reflection and prayer. Older Catholics speak of a type of Lent where music and television were put on hold for the season. Although this practice has faded, we must discover our own peace and quiet during Lent. The only way to reveal the interior life is through silence. Separate from the chaos and surrender to prayer. Put yourself in the presence of God and just talk to Him.

Conversion requires a complete turn in a different direction. Leave the old you behind. We need to make Lent our new beginning.  Follow the advice from Saint Teresa of Calcutta:

“As Lent is the time for greater love, listen to Jesus’ thirst… ‘Repent and believe’ Jesus tells us. What are we to repent? Our indifference, our hardness of heart. What are we to believe? Jesus thirsts even now, in your heart and in the poor – He knows your weakness. He wants only your love, wants only the chance to love you.”

Communication

We encourage all parents and carers to follow us on our social media pages, Facebook and Instagram.  These pages will provide you with a whole range of interesting information, initiatives, updates and images.

Second Hand Uniforms

It is so encouraging to see that our second-hand uniform collection has grown from literally nothing to a very well stocked collection within the last few years. I would encourage you to please consider donating pre-loved uniform items to our collection so we can continue to assist those families in need. I am aware that there are other alternatives to explore with second-hand uniforms, some of which provide you with a small financial gain, so I am very appreciative to those parents who donate their uniform items to the College to help those families and students who are struggling at this time.  Pre-loved uniform items can be left at Reception, and we would ask that uniform items are cleaned and pressed prior to being donated.

Vortex distribution

A reminder that a full edition of the Vortex will be published once every fortnight from now on. The alternate week will have a very basic edition of the Vortex outlining important dates and events.

Email to parents and carers re College leadership changes

An important email was sent to parents and carers a few days ago detailing some changes to the College leadership for the next few months.  I would urge you to please read this email if you have not yet done so.

Prayer for Ash Wednesday

(acknowledgement: jesuits.org/stories/spirit-verse-ash-wednesday/)
We forget sometimes that ashes come from fire,
that this soft black powder was once a firm green frond,
bright and vibrant before it became dry and brittle,
stiff and fibrous before a flame transformed it into dust.
Every living thing submits to change.
Let’s not fear it.
From seed to plant, palm to ash,
this bit of the earth smudged on our foreheads
was carried lovingly in the hands of the Creator.
What fires will we step into this Lent?
What new forms will our souls take
when we encounter the holy blaze of the Living God?
We are – it is true – ash to ash and dust to dust,
but whether in youth or in old age, in life or in death,
let us be assured,
we are held, and we are God’s.
Amen.

Blessed Edmund Rice, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

Joe Zavone
Principal
Christus Lux Mea

“Everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. Everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:9-10

Dear families and friends of St Edmund’s College,

I extend a very warm welcome to all of our families for the 2023 school year, and a very special welcome to all of our new families.  I trust all members of our community had an enjoyable holiday and that our students enter the new school year with a renewed sense of energy, vigour and application.

I had the pleasure of personally welcoming our new Junior School parents to the College last week. I highlighted the fact that we are a school that values communication and community, and I extend that sentiment to all our parents.  Please do not hesitate to contact the College should anything need clarification or explanation, whether it be from a curriculum perspective, a pastoral matter, a co-curricular matter or an organisational matter. I also encourage all our parents to engage with the school as much as you can, getting to know staff and other parents, and contributing to the energy and life of the College and to the positive experiences of your sons.  Please make sure that you follow the College social media pages on Facebook and Instagram, where you can easily catch up on the life of the College and celebrate our events and achievements.

I look forward to either commencing or continuing the positive relationships we have with you in being partners in the education of your son.

The focus of my address to students at the first College Assembly last Tuesday was how we all have an important part in contributing to a positive and inclusive learning culture. This includes being respectful of others (students and teachers), showing kindness, understanding and compassion, and being open to new ideas and perspectives. By being kind and respectful to each other, we can foster a positive and supportive atmosphere where everyone can thrive, whether it be in the classroom, on the sporting field, on stage, in the quad and on the ovals at recess and lunch, and outside of school.

I also extend a very warm welcome to our new members of staff and wish them every success as they work with our boys:

Pauline Carnovale            Canteen
Frederick Clark                  English
Lisa Davis                             Head of Science
Robert Dix                           Head of Treacy House / Health & PE teacher
Joachim Fatiaki                  Religious Education
Narelle Gervink                 Diverse Learning
Emma Gibson                    English / Diverse Learning
Rhys Hekimian                   Creative & Performing Arts
Von Langtry                        Canteen
Eliza Mackenzie                English / HASS / Science
Peter Marrapodi               Health & PE
Leanne Thomas                Creative & Performing Arts
Rachel Rasmussen           Head of Creative & Performing Arts

We welcome back Mrs Carmela Wilson (Head of Religious Education) and Mrs Holly Ellems (Junior School teacher) following their maternity leave.  We also congratulate Ms Ashleigh Kerin (Head of English) and her husband on the birth on their daughter born last week.

Student News

We were very pleased with the achievements of our students from the Class of 2022.  In particular, we congratulate Eric Liehne (our 2022 Dux), Joshua Wink and Samuel Greenwood for their very strong academic achievements.  Eric intends to study Computer Science at ANU; Joshua intends to undertake a Bachelor of International Security Studies at ANU and Samuel plans to study Advanced Computing at ANU.  Profiles of each of these students can be found on our Facebook page.

In the holidays we were informed of some wonderful achievements in the creative and performing arts. Congratulations to Connor Moloney (Year 12) and Daniel Isherwood (Year 12 2022) for their recognition at the Canberra Area Theatre (CAT) Awards, receiving a Recognition of Excellence in Acting for their performances in last year’s musical production of Little Shop of Horrors. Paul Oscar Brown (Year 12) was one of eight artists who has been selected to represent The Q (Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre) in 2023 as a Young Ambassador. Paul Oscar Brown was selected by actress Kate Mulvany OAM for his acting prowess and passion for theatre.

Congratulations also to BJ Darmody (Year 11) and Emmett Smith (Year 11) on their success in being selected for the Harold Matthews Cup Squad (Raiders) for 2023.

Code of Conduct for Parents and Carers

All EREA schools are expected to have a Code of Conduct for parents and carers. Parents and carers are valued members of the St Edmund’s College community, and we ask parents and carers to adhere to this Code of Conduct to help us promote positive, productive and respectful relationships within our community. This Code of Conduct applies to all parents and carers.  The Parent Code of Conduct can be found as an attachment to this week’s Vortex and will also be available on our website very soon.

St Edmund’s College fulfils its mission in partnership with parents and carers who are the first educators of their children. We recognise that parents and carers are valuable participants in our community, and we want to work in partnership with parents and carers to provide and support the safe and positive education and care of students.

St Edmund’s College comprises a wide variety of individuals who work together to help our students become confident, well-educated community members who can contribute as good citizens, co-operate with others and act reflectively and ethically. Our shared values and an understanding of acceptable behaviours enable members of the St Edmund’s College community to work together with respect and appreciation for each other.

We recognise our legal obligation to ensure the ongoing health and safety of students, staff and families within our community. We encourage parents and carers to support our educational environment that exemplifies our Edmund Rice tradition, encouraging our students to grow into the fullness of their humanity where they feel welcomed, accepted and valued.

It is a requirement that all St Edmund’s College families adhere to principles and practices as outlined in the College’s Enrolment Policy and Conditions of Enrolment, as signed by parents.

This Code of Conduct for Parents and Carers clarifies the way the College expects parents and carers to conduct themselves in their interaction with all members of the College community including but not limited to all staff, students, other parents and carers and volunteers.

Starting School

A few weeks ago, principals of a range of high schools across Canberra (including myself) were asked by The Canberra Times to provide some advice, tips and suggestions as to the successful start of the new school year for senior students (Years 11 & 12).  Below are my responses which hopefully will be of some help to you in getting the year off to a great start.

What are the common issues that senior students face?

Many seniors face a sense of uncertainty – for example, not knowing whether their suite of subjects in Years 11 & 12 will serve them well for their chosen career or their chosen tertiary studies. This is why we always suggest that students choose a package of varied subjects, not something that will lock them into a particular discipline.  Added to this is the stress of doing well.  Luckily we are slowly moving towards university entrance that is based on more of a personal profile than just an ATAR, but we still have a long way to go in this area.  I have great concerns at the end of every year when schools advertise their great ATAR scores and publish their wonderful achievements (we are also guilty of doing this) when we are also reiterating to Year 12 students that there is more to life than an ATAR.  Somehow we need to strike the right balance here.

What is your top piece of advice for senior students?

Talk, talk and talk.  Talk to your teachers about any uncertainties you have in your studies and how best to prepare for assessment tasks; talk to your wellbeing staff about how you are feeling and acquiring strategies to cope; talk to your parents and your friends about whatever thoughts you have, so you are sharing not storing.  There are so many people in school and out of school to talk and with whom to and share thoughts and feelings.  It’s amazing what talking to someone can achieve.

What qualities or habits do successful students have in common?

Successful students are not only successful in their studies, but they are also very effective in planning their time; prioritising their tasks and seeking assistance and clarification.  Most successful students also get involved in the life of the school; they add to the energy of the school and have an outlet rather than just focusing solely on their study.

Do you have a motto or saying that you live by?

If you don’t laugh, you cry.  Seeing the lighter side of life gives you a particularly good sense of wellbeing.

What do you hope your students will have learned by the end of their school career?

We have a brief statement at the College that encapsulates what we would like our students to have – a vibrant spirit, a good character and tailored learning.  Basically, having a good energy about yourself and others; being a good person and having a study pathway that suits you so you can move into any direction you wish.

Second Hand Uniforms

It is so encouraging to see that our second-hand uniform collection has grown from literally nothing to a very well stocked collection within the last few years. I would encourage you to please consider donating pre-loved uniform items to our collection so we can continue to assist those families in need. I am aware that there are other alternatives to explore with second-hand uniforms, some of which provide you with a small financial gain, so I am very appreciative to those parents who donate their uniform items to the College to help those families and students who are struggling at this time.  Pre-loved uniform items can be left at Reception, and we would ask that uniform items are cleaned and pressed prior to being donated.

 Vortex distribution

Please note that a full edition of the Vortex will be published once every fortnight from now on. The alternate week will have a very basic edition of the Vortex outlining important dates and events.

2023 Scriptural Theme

“Everyone who asks, receives.

Everyone who seeks, finds.

Everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”

Luke 11:9-10

 This is our scriptural theme for 2023. Every year we have a scriptural theme to provide us with direction and guidance throughout the year.  This year’s scriptural theme is found in Luke’s Gospel and comes after Jesus has taught the crowd how to pray the Our Father, as a response to being asked by the crowd how to pray. Jesus then continues to speak to the crowd about prayer and about having faith in God, but not just to sit around and expect God to intervene in our lives.  We need to be active and know what we are asking for in prayer – we need to ask, seek and knock, and in doing so our questions will be answered, we will find what we are looking for and we will have doors opened.

Jesus provides the crowd with a very simple explanation of prayer. I explained to our staff at our opening meeting that in 2023 we can perceive Jesus’ instruction in a more contemporary context. We are God’s people on earth, and we are the body of Christ, therefore, when people ask, they are asking help from us; when they seek, they are seeking of us and when they knock, they are knocking on our doors.  How then do we respond to this? How do we answer their pleas; how do we provide what they are seeking and what are we providing when we open our doors? Whilst these are questions that do not require an immediate answer, they are certainly questions for us to discern and contemplate.  As a Catholic community, we are a community of service, and these questions should be at the forefront of what we do and say.

I am hoping our scriptural theme will provide us with many opportunities for discussion and discernment throughout the year.

 Prayer for the Beginning of the School Year

Loving God,
We come to You today with grateful hearts and open minds,
asking for Your divine guidance and protection.
As we pray, we remember the words of Jesus in Luke 11:9-10,
where he taught us to ask, seek, and knock,
and to have faith that You will answer our prayers.
We ask that You grant us the wisdom and courage to seek Your will in all things,
and to trust in Your perfect plan for our lives.
Help us to approach every situation with humility and grace,
seeking Your guidance and direction at all times.
We also ask that You bless us with your peace and comfort,
filling our hearts with Your love and joy.
Help us to remain steadfast in our faith,
no matter the challenges that may come our way.
Thank You for Your unwavering love and support,
and for always being there for us.
We pray this in Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Blessed Edmund Rice, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

Joe Zavone
Principal
Christus Lux Mea

“Let us consider how to stir one another to love and good works.” Hebrews 10:24-25

Dear families and friends of St Edmund’s College,

As I was walking through the quad on Monday afternoon, the beautiful fragrance of jasmine came over me.  We have a great deal of jasmine growing in our garden boxes in the quad. To me jasmine is the smell of summer and in a school setting, the fragrance of jasmine often indicates the end of the school year.

It seems a lifetime ago that we were in covid restrictions during Term 1, being at school in masks and adhering to social distancing requirements for parents and visitors.  It is so nice to finish the school year in a very different environment. I would like to thank our students for another great year here at St Edmund’s.  Their energy, efforts and achievements have defined the year and continue to give us all hope and motivation for another great year.

Of course the end of school occurs during the season of Advent. Beginning the Church’s liturgical year, Advent is the season encompassing the four weeks leading up to the celebration of Christmas. The word Advent originates from a Latin word “Adventus” which means “coming” or “arrival.” In Advent, we focus on preparing for the coming of Jesus Christ in all ways, from His birth in the past to His Second Coming in the future as the Messiah. For Catholics, Advent is a meaningful season that reminds us of the reality of Jesus Christ and that He has come and He is present in our world and lives. The birth of Jesus is worth celebrating because it reveals His human side and is therefore an example of how we should live our own lives as his followers here on earth.

I would like to thank our teachers and support staff for their hard work, efforts and contributions throughout the year, and I also thank our College Leadership Team and College Advisory Council for their invaluable guidance and leadership.  Many thanks to our parent body, who continue to support the College by entrusting their sons to us and continue to partner with us in developing young men of vibrant spirit and strong character.

I wish all of our students and their families the very best for the Christmas season, and hope that all of our boys have a relaxing break, ready to another wonderful year in 2023. I very much look forward to my sixth year at St Edmund’s College.

Major Awards Years 4 – 11

Congratulations to all the award winners from Year 4 right through to Year 11 who were presented with an academic award at the Award Presentations on Tuesday.  Our teaching and learning program is at the core of what we do here at the College, and many of our students were acknowledged for their wonderful achievements in this program.

Congratulations also to the following students who were recipients of significant awards at the Awards Presentation.

Spirit of Edmund Rice, Year 4                       Oliver Winn

Spirit of Edmund Rice, Year 5                       Tyrone Lauvao

Spirit of Edmund Rice, Year 6                       Lokomalani Faupula

Italian Language Award                                 Raaghav Kaushik, Year 4

Japanese Language Award                           Matthew Bolton, Year 5

Dr Paul Kildea Music Award                         Dale Fisher, Year 6

Sportsman of the Year Award                     Brayden Kent, Year 6

Patricia Doyle Leadership Award               Max Riva, Year 6

Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award: Ben Martens, Year 10

recognises a student with strong attributes in leadership, teamwork, cooperation and values consistent with our ethos.

Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award: Liam Burke, Year 10

recognises a student who demonstrates innovation and a high level of motivation in the learning area of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).

Australian Catholic University Award: Rory Forbes, Year 10

recognises a Year 10 student who demonstrates strong character and a sense of justice

Father Joe Grealy Award: Harrison Bond, Year 8

recognises community service and acknowledges the significant contribution to others in a selfless and substantial manner.

AMPOL Best All-Arounder Award: Deveraux Tapelu, Year 11

recognises a senior student who has made an exemplary contribution to the College and wider community.

University of Canberra Diligence Award: Roy Kuchel, Year 11

recognises a Year 11 student with outstanding application to their studies and to their sporting endeavours.

Year 7 Dux: Seth Marsden

Year 8 Dux: Brayden Fowler

Year 9 Dux (tie): Reuben McBride and Patrick Barnes

Year 10 Dux : Rory Forbes

Year 11 Dux: Toby Francis

Staff Farewells

At this time of the year we have a number of staff members who leave us for a variety of reasons.

Mrs Margaret Thomas and Mr Alex Hausen will be on long service leave for Semester 1.  Ms Ashleigh Kerin and Ms Kristyl de Leon will be on maternity leave for all of 2023.  We wish Ashleigh and Kristyl the very best for the exciting addition to their families, and we wish Alex and Margaret a restful and reinvigorating extended break. Ms Leanne Gair will also be on an extended period of long service leave over the next 18 months.  We wish Leanne well as she spends time with her family in Traralgon, Victoria.

We also farewell Mr Jack Chalker-Harris, Ms Claire Devlin, Mr Nigel Palfreman, and Ms Christina Wilson who will be leaving the College. We thank these members of staff for their service to the St Edmund’s community and wish them well for their future endeavours. Whilst Mr Justin Giteau left us at the beginning of this term to take up a full-time role with the Canberra Raiders, he will be farewelled by staff later this week.  We thank Justin for his contributions to St Edmund’s and we are sure he will be a successful addition to the Raiders coaching team.

Prayer for the Second Sunday of Advent

God of timeless grace,

you fill us with joyful expectation.

Make us ready for the message that prepares the way,

that with uprightness of heart and holy joy

we may eagerly await the kingdom of your Son, Jesus Christ,

who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.

Amen.

Blessed Edmund Rice, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

Joe Zavone
Principal
Christus Lux Mea

“Let us consider how to stir one another to love and good works.” Hebrews 10:24-25

Dear families and friends of St Edmund’s College,

I received some very disappointing news last week regarding our attempts to create a safer zone for our students who cross Canberra Avenue of a morning and afternoon.  The e-petition to make Canberra Avenue a 40k school zone has been denied.  The has been an acknowledgement by the by Minister Chris Steel that students from St Clare’s College and St Edmund’s College need to cross Canberra Avenue (either by walking or riding), but no action will be taken to make it a school zone. He also acknowledged that the other streets surrounding the school are a school zone, which is of absolutely no consequence at all to those students crossing Canberra Avenue.  The only glimpse of hope is that Minister Steel finishes the response by stating that there will be a review of the traffic movements in the area (yet another one!) and that there could be consideration of other possible interventions, such as a controlled/signalised pedestrian crossing.  To use a colloquialism, I will not hold my breath waiting for that to happen.  I am disappointed and frustrated that an attempt to create a safer environment for our students to cross has been neglected.  I thank the many hundreds of parents and community members who have supported us in this campaign. I have reprinted Minister Steel’s letter below (the letter is addressed to the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly as it is the Clerk who presents the petition to the Assembly).

Response to petition from Minister Chris Steel:

Mr Tom Duncan Clerk ACT Legislative Assembly

Dear Mr Duncan

Thank you for your letter of 2 August 2022 regarding petition 18-22, requesting the reduction of the speed limit to 40km/h on Canberra Avenue between Barrallier Street, Griffith and Hume Circle (intersection of Canberra Avenue, Wentworth Avenue and Sturt Avenue, Griffith).

The ACT Government acknowledges that St Clare’s College and St Edmund’s College are located adjacent to Canberra Avenue and that some students walking and riding to school cross Canberra Avenue. Several streets surrounding St Clare’s College and St Edmund’s College are already currently designated as school zones, including parts of McMillan Crescent, Blaxland Crescent and Barrallier Streets.

Canberra Avenue is a busy arterial road that transports approximately 20,000 vehicles per day at an average speed of 60km/h. Over the past seven years, a total of 23 crashes were reported on this road section, three of which resulted in injury, and none involved pedestrians.

Given that Canberra Avenue is a main arterial route between Canberra and Queanbeyan, the current reduced speed limit of 60km/h is appropriate. Introducing a 40km/h speed limit on this road section is unlikely to be an effective measure without extensive traffic calming measures, which are incompatible with this road’s arterial function.

However, Transport Canberra and City Services will undertake an internal review of traffic movements in this area to inform consideration of other possible interventions, such as a controlled/signalised pedestrian crossing.

Sincerely
Chris Steel MLA Minister for Transport and City Services

2 November 2022

Student Leaders’ Formation Day

On Tuesday of last week we held our annual Student Leaders Formation Day with our new leaders for 2023.  The formation day focuses on students becoming aware of their own leadership skills and styles, developing these skills and applying these skills to a school setting. The afternoon session saw the Junior School leaders join the senior leaders in looking at how we can animate and strengthen the messages that arise from some of our foundational documents – the Statement of Eddies Pride, the annual Scriptural theme and the four Touchstones. My thanks to the students leaders who engaged in the day with a great positive sense, and to the staff members who worked with our leaders – Mr Michael Monagle, Ms Monica Day and Ms Bridget Cusack.

Year 12 Graduation

Last Friday’s Year 12 Graduation events were a highlight of the year.  For the first time for a few years, we could return to having the graduation events in their full style rather than a restricted event.  The three events (Mass, Assembly and Dinner) ran very smoothly and marked a significant manner in which to celebrate and farewell our Year 12 cohort. We have some unique and special traditions which take place on Graduation Day, such as presenting each Year 12 student with a graduation stole, on which is printed the name of every student in Year 12; and of course, the presentation of the Old Boys tie during the Graduation Dinner.

We also continued the “new” tradition (commenced last year) of students signalling their end of school life by ringing the bell.  This bell was a gift from last year’s Year 12 students, and is rung by students and staff when they commence their time at the College and when they leave the College.

This is how the bell was introduced to the College community last year by the 2021 College Captain, Baden Godfrey, “In Irish mythology, bells symbolise both a beginning and an ending. We, as the Graduating Class of 2021, would like to present the College with this bell, the symbol of which has a strong connection to our Irish heritage as a school and also to connects us in knowing that when something ends, another begins. For us, our time at school is formally coming to an end yet it is the beginning of the next chapter of our lives. After us, members of our community, students and staff, are invited to ring this bell to celebrate the beginning of their time here at the College and also to acknowledge the end of their time here too. So in hearing this bell, we know that even when life changes, we are always connected to the Eddies community. May this gift from the Graduating Class of 2021 ring out with shared memories and of the past, celebrations of the present and hope for the future. 

Go gcoinneoidh Dia iad siúd a chloiseann é i dtearmann a láimhe.  May God hold those who ring it in the palm of His hand.”

Major Year 12 Awards

Congratulations to the following students who were recipients of significant awards at the Graduation Dinner last Friday evening.

• The Edmund Rice Award is given to a number of students who have in their own unique and individual way contributed to the vibrant spirit and positive culture of the college. They are students who have excelled in representing the College in our community, maintained consistent academic efforts, demonstrated resilience, persistence, leadership and initiative and have lived out the values and ethos of our College founder, Blessed Edmund Rice. Congratulations to Henry Alsworth, Nicholas Coote, Will Grame, Liam Guthrie, Hunter Harlor, Wynn Hickey, Andre Jugovac, Eric Liehne, Tadgh Loadsman, Matthew McGrath, Thomas Percy, Angus Robertson-Taylor, Liam Spence, Justin Thomas, Joshua Wink

• The College Award for Vocational Studies is presented to a student who has excelled and demonstrated commitment to the field of Vocational Studies. He has achieved certification in various areas and has applied himself greatly to his work in his chosen field. Congratulations to Kye Darmody.

• The Adam Darmody Award is presented to a student in the area of Creative and Performing Arts. It is given to the student who has been an exemplary role model for younger students and a consistent member of the creative and performing arts co-curricular program through the band program, musicals and performances, and other creative and performing arts programs that the College offers. Congratulations to Daniel Isherwood.

• The Sportsman of the Year Award is presented to the student who has achieved a record of outstanding performance in their chosen sports or fields. The recipient of this award has participated in and excelled in his contributions to the College Co-Curricular Program in one or more chosen sporting fields during his time at the College. He has also represented the College at ASC level and achieved selection in one or more Australian representative teams. Congratulations to Andrew McFarlane.

• The Oldfield Cup is presented to a Year 12 student for outstanding commitment to community service. Congratulations to Daniel DeBruin.

• The Archbishop O’Brien Cup is presented to a member of the graduating Year 12 class for outstanding Christian leadership. Congratulations to Daniel Isherwood.

• The Denyse Gibbs Award is presented to a Year 12 student who has made a consistent, sustained and conspicuous effort in his senior years of studies. The award recognises personal achievement, integrity of action, the overcoming of adversity and determination to achieve self-set goals. Congratulations to Jacob Traynor.

• The Byrne Award is the College’s highest accolade presented to one of its students. It is presented to a Year 12 student for the demonstration of personal integrity and initiative within the College and its community. Congratulations to Andrew McFarlane.

• The Blue and White Award is selected by students in Year 12 and is presented to one of their peers for being an inspirational student to others. The recipient is someone who has displayed honesty, integrity, loyalty and humility throughout their time at the College. The award winner demonstrates resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Congratulations to Andrew McFarlane.

Last Day of School

A reminder that the last day of school for students in Years 4 to 9 is Tuesday 6 December.  We finish the school year by celebrating the achievements of our students in our presentation ceremonies (see important dates below).  Please note that there are no scheduled classes for the high school following the presentation of awards. Students in Years 7, 8 & 9 can leave the school premises after the ceremony (only with parental permission).  Those students who remain at school will be involved in some clean-up activities for the reminder of the afternoon.

A reminder of important dates for the rest of the year

Monday 5 December: Junior School Activity Day

Tuesday 6 December: Junior School Presentation Ceremony (9.15am); Years 7 – 11 Presentation Ceremony (11.00am)

Tuesday 6 December: last day for students in Years 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.

Prayer for the First Sunday of Advent

Loving God,
the light I choose to let into my life today is based on my trust in you.
It is a weak flame, but I so much desire that it dispel a bit more darkness today.
This week, I just want to taste the longing I have for you as I go through each day,
carrying out the responsibilities of my life and work,
facing the frustration of some difficult relationships.
Let the Advent candle for this week be my reminder today of my hope in your coming.
Amen.

Blessed Edmund Rice, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

Joe Zavone
Principal
Christus Lux Mea