St Bede's Catholic College Newsletter 4 - 28 March 2024

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE – JOHN MURPHY

PRAYER  

Lord Jesus, 
by your passion and resurrection, 
you brought life to the world. 
But the glory of the resurrection 
came only after the sufferings of the passion. 
You laid down your life willingly 
and gave up everything for us. 
Your body was broken and fastened to a cross, 
Your clothing became the prize of soldiers, 
your life ebbed slowly but surely away, 
and your Mother was entrusted to the beloved disciple. 
Stretched out on the cross, 
deprived of all earthly possessions and human aid, 
you cried out to your Father that the end had come. 
You had accomplished the work given you, 
and you committed into His hands, 
as a perfect gift, 
the little life that remained to you. 
Lord, take hold of me with your love, 
and let me offer myself to the Father with you,  
so that I may rise with you to eternal life. 
Amen 
St Bede … Pray for us. 

BUILDING UPDATE

In exciting news, we will begin the process of moving into our fourth and final building, the Marian Building, next week. Student tours and inductions will occur with the building expected to be fully operational be the end of the week. Our first full College Assembly will occur in the new basketball court/auditorium on Thursday 11 April, the last student day of the term. With the building project having commenced back in 2017, our first College Assembly will be a significant occasion for our school community. We look forward to having parents/carers walk through our wonderful new building at any of the information evenings and Parent Forums.

STAFF NEWS

It is with much pleasure that I announce the appointment of Mrs Kelly Pearson as Temporary Assistant Principal for Term 2. This appointment is to cover Mrs South’s substantive position as Assistant Principal as she steps into the Acting Principal’s position while I am on long service leave next term.

Mrs Pearson has been with us as a teacher and LOWE since the start of 2022 and has excelled as both a teacher and leader. Mrs Pearson will bring to the position a strong educational background, experience, and commitment to upholding our high standards, care of our staff and students, and driving the various strategic, learning, wellbeing, and faith initiatives that we embrace as a school community. Mrs Pearson is passionate about getting the best outcomes for our students and will bring her own gifts and perspectives to the Executive Team. Within her portfolio, she will have specific responsibilities for overseeing Years 8, 10, and 12 and the English, HSIE (Humanities), Creative Arts, Languages, and Religious Studies Facilities.

I am also pleased to announce that Ms Kim Dickson has been appointed as the Gifted Education Mentor K-12 Project Officer for St Bede’s Chisholm. Commencing next week, Kim will work on Tuesdays. Ms Dickson has delivered inquiry-based learning at Hunter Valley Grammar School for the past 19 years. She has international teaching experience and has implemented writing enrichment programs for high potential and gifted students. Kim holds a Bachelor of Education and is a professional educator with vast experience and expertise in delivering differentiated curricula catering to diverse learning styles and the individual needs of students. Ms Dickson has a passion for high potential and gifted education; and has a genuine desire to assist staff and students to achieve excellence in all that they pursue.

We look forward to Ms Dickson working with our gifted students and staff throughout the remainder of the year.

Name: Kim Dickson

Family background:    

I come from a family where love and togetherness are cherished above all else. Familial bonds are deeply rooted within our family. As a mother blessed with three daughters, I strive to pass on a sense of unity and strength to my own children.

My hopes and dreams in coming to St Bede’s:    

At St Bede's, my hopes and dreams are to immerse myself in the vibrant community. I aspire to mentor and guide learners, equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and passion to excel in their academic, emotional, and spiritual journey.  

Teaching Qualifications:    

I have a Bachelor of Education (Primary) degree obtained in 1994 from the University of Newcastle. 

Teaching Experience: 

I began my career in Perth in 1995, where I honed my teaching skills. Transitioning to London in 1997, I embraced the dynamic energy of the English Curriculum. I have spent the past eighteen years at Hunter Valley Grammar School where I was a gifted and talented writing specialist, nurturing young writers and empowering them to express their unique voices with confidence and clarity.

Personal Interests/Passions:    

I enjoy reading historical fiction, getting lost in the vivid worlds of the past. Writing is my passion and creative outlet, where I can craft my own stories and let my imagination roam free. On sunny days, you will often find me at the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the calming sound of the waves. 

Advice to Students:    

Make kindness a priority in your interactions, for it not only enriches your own life but also creates a ripple effect of positivity in the world around you. 

EASTER

I take this opportunity to wish our community a happy and Holy Easter. Easter is a time for us to reflect on the significance of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ in bringing us eternal life. This is the cornerstone of our faith and serves to remind us of the everlasting love God has for us. The very purpose of Catholic schooling is built upon our belief in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour and that we model our practices upon his teachings. I encourage students and families to attend an Easter service at one of the local parishes. We will have an Easter Liturgy here at school next Tuesday 2 April. The invitation to attend these Catholic Church services is for everyone, irrespective of your religion. Below are the times and locations of services within our local area.

UPCOMING EVENTS 2024

Assistant Principal Report – Emma South and Amber Carter

Concerning student use of social media platforms 

It has been brought to the College's attention that a number of St Bede's students are involved in a SnapChat group chat, which has explicit and violent content. 

In keeping with our child protection obligations, these incidents are reported to the Office of Safeguarding who have asked to ensure parents and carers are aware of the risks associated with their child's use of social media platforms and the potential exposure children may have to explicit content. Additionally, they have advised that students, parents, and carers are able to report the threats to the Police and the eSafety Commission. eSafety is Australia's independent regulator for online safety. They educate Australians about online safety risks and help to remove harmful content such as cyberbullying of children, adult cyber abuse and intimate images or videos shared without consent. 

Further, please know that there are services at the College that are available to students should they require support to report explicit and violent content on social media platforms. Students, parents, and carers can reach out to their child's Homeroom teacher or Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement if they would like to access support to make a report to the eSafety Commission.  

Please also see the following links for some information for you to consider.

It is of vital importance that our students are aware that photographing or filming of other students, a teacher, or any staff member by a student/s or distribution of these images without the individual’s specific permission will be viewed as a severe breach of college expectations and may result in disciplinary action. 

If you have any questions or wish to discuss any of the above further, please do not hesitate to contact us at the College. 

Year 7 2025 Parent Information Evening 

On Tuesday 26 March, we welcomed over 200 new prospective members to our school community as those seeking Year 7 enrolments for 2025 spent the evening with us. A presentation from the College Executive sharing our Learning and Wellbeing focus was followed by a tour, where we took enormous pride in highlighting the wonderful facilities available to our students. The enrolment process will continue over the coming weeks as the image below clarifies.

Year 12 Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews 

Thank you to all Year 12 families who joined us on Thursday 21 March to discuss learning progression and areas for growth of those completing their HSC year at St Bede’s. There was good attendance at the evening and the conversations had were very much focused on the opportunities and challenges ahead, and ensuring our students have the skills and strategies to do their very best moving forward. We look forward to continuing this exciting learning journey together. 

Student Leave Procedures  

Leave will ordinarily not be granted for, or during, scheduled school examination periods, as these assessments play a crucial role in a student's academic progress and HSC performance. In cases where families anticipate a compelling need for leave during assessment periods, we request that they submit a written request to the principal. Furthermore, if deemed necessary, families are encouraged to schedule an appointment or engage in a discussion with the Principal or Assistant Principal to outline the extenuating circumstances. It is essential that this appointment is arranged at least ten school days before the intended absence from school to ensure due consideration and appropriate planning. This approach helps us maintain the integrity of our academic program while addressing the unique needs of our students.  

Please note that leave forms are no longer required where intended leave is less than ten school days. Should leave become a necessity, families are requested to submit an attendance note through Compass. We ask parents/carers to be aware of student’s formal assessment responsibilities in their request for leave submission and in any case where the student is absent, an Illness/Misadventure form needs to be completed and submitted.   

Where leave for a duration of ten or more school days is intended, parents are required to complete the Application Form - Extended Leave or Exemption, which can be found on the Compass. This form must include a detailed explanation for the extended leave request. This form must be completed and submitted to the school at least ten school days before the intended period of travel. Upon approval from the principal, the school will issue a Certificate of Leave, allowing for the necessary absence.  

We wish all in our community a safe and happy Easter! We hope you enjoy a relaxing, faith filled and joyful long weekend with good company and cherished traditions.

Catholic Formation and Mission – Andrew Slater

St Benedict’s Feast Day 

On Tuesday, the College celebrated the Feast of St Benedict, patron saint of Benedict House. It was so wonderful to see so many students dressed in yellow. Mrs Shaw and the Benedict House Leaders ran a dodgeball competition during Break 1, and a Kahoot during Break 2. Thank you to all students and families who generously donated to Project Compassion. Our support of Project Compassion is vital to the work that Caritas carries out with disadvantaged people around the world.  

Stations of the Cross 

aMeN Camino 

The aMeN Camino is a Maitland Newcastle Diocesan Pilgrimage which started in 2019. It is a five-day pilgrimage, which involves about 100km of walking, starting at St John’s Chapel in Maitland and concluding at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Further information is available in the attached flyer.  

LEARNING DOMAIN

Year 10 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement – Alanna Bohatko  

Year 10 are to be congratulated for their energetic start to the year as we near the completion of Term 1. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with this cohort this term, getting to know students I have not yet had the opportunity to teach. I am inspired by many of these students, their resilience and passion.  
 
Participation in sporting events and extra-curricular activities has been high throughout the term and in our last year meeting we celebrated the achievement of many Year 10 students in soccer, mathematics and chess competitions. On Monday I was able to distribute multiple Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement Awards. We have focussed on policy, particularly that of assessment and the procedures. I thank students and families who have been proactive in this making the process very smooth. If you have any questions regarding compass, attendance, or procedures, please reach out to our amazing homeroom team.   
As these last few weeks are filled with assessment and feedback, I hope students continue learning up until a well-deserved holiday. Early Term 2 we will focus on Stage 6 with more information to come.  
 
I wish everyone a safe and happy break after the next few busy weeks.  

Morpeth ANZAC Day March – 25 APRIL

Students, families, and staff from St Bede’s are invited to attend the Morpeth ANZAC Day March and Commemorative Service on Thursday, 25 April 2024. 

The march commences at 10:45am from Campbells Store, Corner of Tank and Swan Streets, Morpeth. Students and staff are welcome to march behind our school banner. Students are required to wear formal uniform (no sports uniform). We are asking that staff and students gather near Miss Lily's Lollies at 10:30am ready to start the march at 10:45am. It would be wonderful to have many of our students attend this special Commemorative Service. 

The Commemorative Service commences at the Cenotaph, corner of Swan and Northumberland Streets, Morpeth at 11am. 

Harmony Day – Abby O’Connor and Bree McCabe

Students at St Bede’s celebrated Harmony Week last week! ​​This is an exciting week which recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. 

The 2024 theme for Harmony Week was “Everyone Belongs.” Our daily prayers served as a reminder about the importance of inclusiveness, respect, and a sense of belonging for everyone.​ 

Wellbeing Leaders created a display to educate students on the diversity of our college community. Many of our St Bede’s families and students have roots in various countries, traditions, and cultures. Students became more aware that many members of our college community speak a language other than English at home! Our rich diversity was represented through a vibrant display of flags and fun facts, as well as a Harmony Day video. In this video, students shared their thoughts on the importance of Harmony Day. Some students and staff also shared a range of cultural celebrations and traditions their family's practice.  

On Wednesday, the canteen served a range of food from locations around the world. Menu items included burritos, sushi, spaghetti and meatballs, butter chicken with rice, and buffalo wings. On Thursday, students competed in our Harmony Day Kahoot, testing their knowledge of this important day and our diverse college community.  

A prayer for Harmony: 

Dear Lord,
We seek your guidance and blessings as we gather to celebrate our differences and similarities.
Help us to see the light of love in each other's hearts, regardless of race, religion, or background.
Grant us the wisdom to listen with open minds, speak with kindness, and act with compassion towards one another.
May we learn from one another's stories, share in each other's joys and sorrows, and build bridges of understanding that unite us as one human family.
As we celebrate this week dedicated to harmony, let it serve as a reminder that true strength lies in our ability to respect and honour the uniqueness of every individual.
In your name, we pray for harmony to reign in our hearts, our communities, and our world.
Amen.
St Bede, pray for us. 

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Sport – Lachlan Vaughan

 Chess

The St Bede’s Chess Team competed in the NSW Junior Chess League’s Country Secondary Schools Competition on Wednesday the 20th of March away from home against Maitland Christian School (MCS). The team of four; Pushkar Neravetla (10HRM4), Tommy Mella (12HRM1), Srikar Neravetla (8HRM4) and Samuel Griffin (10HRM7) were supported by reserves of Toby Burg (9HRM5), Max Hartigan (10HRM5) and Syed Ahmed (10HRM8). Year 8 student, Srikar Neravetla, won his match convincingly against a Year 12 student from MCS, while Pushkar, Tommy and Samuel all lost in close end games which were see-sawing affairs that could have gone either way. Falling short in a hard-fought 3-1 loss, the team should be buoyed by their efforts against an experienced outfit from MCS who managed to come 4th in the Hunter region last year. Fortunately, St Bede’s have another chance in the second-place competition for round 2 which will be held later this term against Maitland Grossman High School.

Diocesan Senior Soccer Knockout

Last Thursday was a day of fierce competition and thrilling football action as our very own St. Bede's boys and girls football teams showcased their skills at the Senior Soccer Gala Day held at Speers Point. Facing off against formidable opponents including All Saints College, St. Mary’s Gateshead, and St. Pius X, our teams displayed grit, determination, and remarkable sportsmanship throughout the event.

The girls started the day with an electrifying match against a strong St. Pius X team. Though they fought valiantly, St. Pius X emerged victorious. Undeterred, our girls continued to demonstrate resilience and passion in every subsequent game, with the unwavering support of their fellow teammates cheering them on from the sidelines. Despite their youth, the girls have displayed remarkable skill, determination, and resilience throughout the tournament. They have not only demonstrated what we are capable of but have also set a high standard for excellence that other schools would be wise to take note of. As our team continues to mature and develop, their potential knows no bounds. Let this be a warning to our competitors: St. Bede's is a force to be reckoned with, and we are only getting stronger.

Meanwhile, the boys kicked off their campaign with a great showdown against All Saints College. Despite a display of skill and teamwork, the boys went down to some exceptional strikes on goal. Despite facing tough opponents in every match, they never backed down, showing remarkable determination and perseverance. The culmination of the day's intense battles brought us to a nail-biting showdown in the final game: a rematch against All Saints College for the coveted 2nd place spot. With adrenaline pumping and determination ablaze, our boys unleashed their full strength, leaving everything on the field in pursuit of victory.

In a heart-stopping display of skill and grit, both teams battled fiercely, each refusing to concede an inch of ground. Every pass, every tackle, every shot was met with thunderous cheers from the sidelines as supporters urged our boys forward.

As the clock ticked down and tensions soared, it became clear that this match would be decided by sheer willpower and determination. And in a breathtaking climax, our boys surged ahead, defying the odds to emerge triumphant.

A reminder that St Bede’s Catholic College is a member of the NSWCCC. Updated information and a detailed list of all individual and team pathway events/carnivals can be found on the below link.

Upcoming Events: Term 1 2024 

SERVICE & GOVERNANCE DOMAIN

School Fees – Kylie Murray   

School Fees 2024 

All statements have been issued at the start of March. Please familiarise yourself with the terms at the bottom to be in line with your terms of enrolment. School fees are expected to have commenced with a first payment made by the end of March unless you have nominated one annual payment. If you need assistance in calculating a regular payment plan, please contact finance. 

Event on Compass: 2024 Fee Settlement Options 

Please check your compass events to see if this outstanding to be completed, reminders are being sent weekly and there are still many families who are yet to complete this requirement from the CSO.  

Note: If you are using the compass app, please go down to the bottom right-hand corner click more, select open in web browser, then go up to events to have the multiple-choice option. 

Health Care /Pension Card 

Reminder if you have a Health Care/ Pension Card you must submit a new form for 2024. Please complete the pdf and return to Finance along with a copy of your card (front and back).  

For any families experiencing genuine financial hardship, we encourage you to contact your School Finance Officer to discuss and develop a payment plan as appropriate. 

Please email finance@chisholmsb.catholic.edu.au for any queries.

Other News

Canteen

Volunteer Registration Link The Federation of P&F Associations: invitation to Webinar by Karen Young - 9th April

You are invited to attend an online event on Tuesday 9 April with internationally respected child development expert and author, Karen Young. Karen will be speaking on the topic ‘Behaviour, Big Feelings, and Self-Regulation’, providing parents and carers with valuable insights and practical strategies to support their children and teenagers.

This event is free for all parents and carers to attend and is brought to you by Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle’s peak parent body, the Federation of P&F Associations. If you cannot attend the webinar at the designated time, you are encouraged to still register, as a recording of the event will be available to you on demand, for one week after the event.

Volunteer Registration Link

School Student Travel

Hunter Academy of Sport Indigenous Identification Day 2024

Williamson International – Uniform Queries

All uniform queries are to be directed to Williamson International.

Williamson International Contact Details:

Phone: 1800 815 571
Email: greg@williamson.com.au

Online Uniform Orders: