St Bede's Catholic College Newsletter - Edition 11 - 1 August 2025

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE – JOHN MURPHY

PRAYER

May God the Father bless us. 
May God the Son heal us. 
May God the Holy Spirit enlighten us, 
and give us 
eyes to see with, 
ears to hear with, 
hands to do the work of God with, 
feet to walk with, 
a mouth to preach the word of salvation with, 
and the angel of peace to watch over us  
and lead us at last, 
by our Lord's gift, to the Kingdom. 
Amen. 
St Bede…… Pray for us. 

STAFF NEWS

I am delighted to be back from leave that I took in the last six weeks of last term. During my leave, I did two overseas pilgrimages and some personal travel through Greece, Türkiye, Portugal, Spain, and France.

The first pilgrimage, titled ‘Footsteps of St Paul’, included visiting sites through Greece and to a lesser extent Türkiye, where St Paul established Christian communities that led to him writing his letters in the New Testament of the Bible. Included in this pilgrimage was visiting sites where the Blessed Virgin Mary, St John, and St Paul lived and died and where major historical events in world history unfolded. In addition, I visited some historical monasteries located in the most inaccessible but stunning landscapes. This pilgrimage enhanced my knowledge and understanding of the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St Paul, St John, and other saints and important figures in the development of Christianity.

The second pilgrimage, titled ‘Mary & the Saints’, visited sites through Portugal, Spain, and France where some of the Church’s most renowned saints, including St Teresa, St Dominic, St Ignatius, and St Bernadette lived, which contributed to the development of religious orders such as the Carmelites, Dominicans, Benedictines, and the Jesuits. Included in the itinerary were stays at Fatima in Portugal and at Lourdes in Southern France. Fatima was where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared on multiple occasion to the three children, Lúcia Santos and her cousins Jacinta and Francisco Marto, in 1917. Lourdes was where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared on multiple occasions to St Bernadette in 1858. To know and understand these stories, and to have joined thousands of other pilgrims in prayer, Mass, and processions, built within me and the other pilgrims a strong sense of global Church connection and an even stronger commitment to our Catholic beliefs.

The additional personal travel I did through Portugal and Spain and visiting other religious sites, including some amazing Cathedrals, Basilicas’, and Museums, also provided me with unique experiences and insights. I will be giving a presentation of these travels at an upcoming school assembly, staff meeting, and at our Term 3 Family & Community Engagement (FACE) Forum on Wednesday 20 August.

I acknowledge and thank those staff who stepped into higher order duties during my leave. These included Mrs. Amber Carter who moved from her current Assistant Principal position into the Principal position, Ms. Lauren McCafferty who moved from her current HSIE Leader of Learning position into the Assistant Principal position, Ms. Lauren Power who moved from her Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement position into the Human Society in its Environment (HSIE) Leader of Learning position, Ms. Abby O’Connor who moved from her Year 7 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement position on Fridays into the Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement position, and Mr. Lachlan Vaughan who stepped into the Year 7 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement on Fridays whilst continuing in his Wellbeing Co Ordinator role.

AFTER THE RAIN DOCUMENTARY

Just prior to my departure overseas at the end of May were the terrible floods that impacted on many regions throughout NSW, including in our own Maitland Newcastle Diocese. The extent of the flood damage was horrific and continues to impact on many people. In response to this natural disaster, the Diocese launched a Bishop’s Flood Appeal which raised over $160,000 and is being used to assist families impacted by this natural disaster. The video, titled ‘After the Rain Documentary’, captures the extraordinary response to the Bishop’s Flood Appeal. It highlights the incredible efforts of students and staff across the Diocese, including St Clare’s Taree who were on the ground helping with recovery efforts. I encourage you to view this video.

I invite parents/carers to contact the relevant Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement if any support can be provided to your children who may have been impacted by the floods. I also invite any parents/carers to make a time to confidentially meet with me and our College Finance Officer if your capacity to pay school fees have been compromised by the floods or by other factors.

HIGH POTENTIAL AND GIFTED STUDENTS

On Wednesday 23 July we proudly celebrated the graduation of students from the University of Newcastle’s High Performing Student Program (HPSP) - an extraordinary initiative that offers eligible Year 9-11 students the opportunity to study first-year university units while still in school. Students were awarded certificates for their achievements in first-year courses across Business, Mathematics, and Medical Sciences. While academic excellence was at the forefront, the ceremony also recognised the motivation, dedication, and perseverance that each student demonstrated throughout the program.

Congratulations to our students Hamish Dibley Year 9, Henry Carpenter Year 10, Olivia Taylor Year 10, Jocelyn Black Year 10, Lucy Richardson Year 10, Isabella King Year 10 and Angelique Currey Year 10, who were part of this graduation. Attached is an article from the Newcastle Herald on this story which includes some commentary from one of our Year 10 Graduates, Henry Carpenter.

PARENT ENGAGEMENT

Advanced notice that our Term 3 Family & Community Engagement (FACE) Forum is scheduled for 6.00pm on Wednesday 20 August in the College Library. These forums are optional but are an important avenue of parent engagement. Attending these meetings is a great way for families to connect and to be part of the St Bede’s community. We hope to see you at this event.

UPCOMING EVENTS 2025

Assistant Principal Report – Rebel Clark and Amber Carter

Strategies for Successful Learning

Starting the new term well is key to experiencing success throughout the term and beyond. There are some simple yet effective strategies that can be helpful in supporting students to begin the term on the right foot. 

1. Set clear goals for the term, reflect on what you want to achieve academically and personally, then write these goals down. Having clear goals provides focus and motivation, making it easier to stay on track even when challenges arise. The following article from The Conversation about strategies for setting goals is aimed at Year 12 students, however, the information is relevant to all students.

2. Organise your time wisely, and keep in mind time management is a skill that needs to be practised to master. Use a planner or digital calendar to schedule study sessions, extracurricular activities, and breaks. Prioritising tasks and managing time well prevents last-minute stress and helps maintain a healthy balance. The tips at the following link from Harvard has some excellent ideas about using planners and the power of scheduling.

3. Develop positive study habits. Break study material into manageable chunks and review regularly instead of cramming. A useful formula is: Work Accomplished = Time Spent x Intensity. This means the more intense our concentration the more work, or study, we can get done. Using effective study techniques during these periods of intense work can level up learning power. The following link has some great advice on specific study techniques that are helpful for all students.

4. Stay engaged and ask for help. Participate actively in class and, if you struggle with any topic, don’t hesitate to talk to teachers or peers, seeking support early can prevent difficulties later.  The most effective learners ask for help and develop this skill into a habit. Asking for help builds connections and can help prevent procrastination.

5. Lastly, and most importantly, maintain a healthy lifestyle with enough sleep, good nutrition, and exercise. A healthy body supports learning as it increases mental fitness and wellbeing. Reach Out is an organisation that promotes positive wellbeing for young people, and it is worth looking at the resources on the below website.

Starting the term with these habits sets a strong foundation for success and personal growth. Remember, success looks different for everyone but taking small consistent steps lead to big achievements.  

HSC Trial examinations commence on Monday 4 August and the timetable is below. We are praying our Year 12 students have clear minds and steady hands as they embark on the examinations.  

Uniform & Grooming 

We extend thanks to all the students and families that show their support for the high standards of uniform and grooming that has been set at the College. It was wonderful to see students return to school this term wearing the College uniform with pride. A high standard of school uniform is important as it promotes a sense of unity and equality among students. We are striving to ensure St Bede’s students can present themselves with a sense of pride and professionalism which shows they can meet high standards set in organisations beyond school. School uniforms are more than clothing; they are a foundational element that nurtures a sense of discipline, professionalism, and a team-oriented attitude, effectively preparing students for future academic and career success. 

Traffic Management Plan 

As a large school we understand that ensuring all members of the community arrive and depart the College safely every day is paramount and is a combined accountability that includes families, students, staff and the broader community. Developed in consultation with the relevant stakeholders, the College Traffic Management Plan outlines the procedures students and families should be aware of as you travel to and from school. 

At the beginning of the term we were contacted by a Traffic Management Officer from Maitland City Council to discuss concerns raised with council relating to the flow of traffic on and around the College site. The Traffic Management Plan is a reminder of the expectations in ensuring the safe flow of traffic. The Traffic Management Office has also indicated that over the coming weeks a ranger will be supporting them in issuing fines for traffic infringements including double parking. Please be aware of the procedures and expectations outlined in the Traffic Management Plan and follow the road rules to avoid the possibility of being issued an infringement notice. 

Catholic Formation and Mission – Andrew Slater

St Dominic’s Feast Day

The Feast of St Dominic was celebrated on Thursday 31 July. St Dominic, patron saint of Dominic House, was the founder of the Order of Preachers, better known as the Dominicans. The aim of his order is closely aligned with the Dominican House pillar of knowledge, as St Dominic wanted people to understand the truth of Christ, through gaining knowledge.

We thank all students who dressed in red and purchased a sausage sizzle or can. Your generous donations to the Mission to Seafarers are much appreciated and will help them to continue their work with the seafarers that arrive at the Port of Newcastle.

More information about St Dominic can be found in the YouTube clip below:

Year 12 Vinnies Winter Sleepout

On the evening of 22 August, our Year 12 students will be participating in the Vinnies Winter Sleepout. The Sleepout is an annual event, which allows students and school communities to get a glimpse of the realities of homelessness, on a personal level, by ‘sleeping rough’ for one night. The Sleepout encourages students to gain a deeper understanding of homelessness, raise awareness of the realities faced by people experiencing homelessness and raise funds to support Vinnies homeless services in the local community.

The QR code below will take you to our College fundraising page. All money donated will directly support people experiencing or facing homelessness in our local community.

August Mass

Mass will be celebrated in the Oratory on Friday 15 August at 8am, instead of the third Wednesday of August. This is the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary. The Solemnity, a holy day of obligation, commemorates the end of Mary’s earthly life, and her assumption, body and soul, into heaven.

Year 9 Reflection Day

The Year 9 Reflection Day will be held on Thursday 14 August onsite at the College. Students will need to bring their recess and a pen with them. A BBQ lunch will be provided.

LEARNING DOMAIN

Year 11 Leaders of Wellbeing and Engagement – Eleanor Martin and Rebecca Haines

The Final Term of Year 11

Welcome to Term 3! It has been heartening to see our Year 11 students stepping up and embracing opportunities to grow both personally and as leaders within our school community.

We would like to take a moment to praise the outstanding attendance and enthusiastic participation of our Year 11 students at the recent Athletics Carnival. Not only did they demonstrate school spirit, but many rose to the challenge of being positive role models—cheering on younger students and showing the kind of leadership we hope to see flourish in their final year. This display of initiative and encouragement ties in beautifully with our upcoming student leadership applications, which will open later this term. Now is an ideal time for you to have positive conversations at home, encouraging your child to reflect on the formal and informal leadership roles they have undertaken over the last few years to consider applying for these important positions.

From next term, they will officially become Year 12 students—beginning their HSC journey. Term 3 is the time to cement strong study habits, refine routines, and begin to take a proactive approach to workload and time management. We strongly recommend students use this time to organise their week, balance academic and personal commitments, and build momentum.

We also want to acknowledge the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in student learning. While the use of AI in classrooms has sometimes raised concerns, we believe that when used thoughtfully and ethically, it can be a valuable tool. We have been demonstrating how students can use AI to assist in building personalised study timetables around sport and work commitments, or to generate practice questions and revision activities. We encourage families to have open conversations about using AI responsibly. An over-reliance on AI—particularly for writing paragraphs or completing assessment tasks—can impact a student’s confidence and limit the development of their own ideas and creativity.

As always, thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing the growth and leadership of our Year 11 students continue as they prepare for the exciting challenges ahead in Year 12.

Digital Innovation and Learning – Sandra Hampshire

Year 10 Student Device Program 2026 

In 2020 St Bede’s Catholic College undertook an investigation into a senior device program. This investigation involved students, staff, and parents. The proposal saw universal agreement that a “Bring your own specified device” (BYOSD) was the preferred mode for both junior and senior students. We have utilised this model since 2021 and will continue to follow this in 2026. 

Our partner for the device program will continue to be Next Technologies. Next Technologies will organise a purchasing portal, finance options, etc.   

Following on from a Vendor Day that the school ICT Team attended in May, device options for 2026 are in the process of being investigated with Next Technologies. This process involves student feedback on the device options – for the 2026 device selection, we will get feedback from the Year 10 2026 cohort, as well as students from our feeder schools of St Aloysius and Our Lady of Lourdes. 

Timeline Information 

Last term, we communicated that the current timeline has been delayed due to the availability of device samples. This timeline is still currently impacted by these delays and as a result we are anticipating this information will be communicated mid to late Term 3.  

In 2025, we trialed a later delivery date for Year 10 students but found this was not suitable as students did not have their device for the start of Term 1. The projected delivery date for the Year 10 2026 device will be the last week of school holidays. This allows flexibility in payment options to ensure payment does not need to be finalised until after Christmas.  

Pricing Guidance 

In 2025 there were two options for the senior device. The lower spec model was offered at $1464 and the higher spec model was offered at $1634. This cost included the $119 Accidental Damage Protection warranty which allows for zero excess screen repairs. This price included the device, stylus, charger and a 3 Year Onsite Support and 3 Year Battery Cover (with $0 excess).  

Once the 2026 Year 10 device has been finalised, we will then communicate ordering information to families. In previous years, ordering opened in September and payment was due in January. As mentioned, the previous timeline has been shifted to ensure device delivery before the start of the school year so there may be adjustments in these dates.  

Information regarding the device program will continue to be released through the year. In the meantime, if you have any questions regarding the devices or the programs, please contact Sandra Hampshire via email at Sandra.hampshire@mn.catholic.edu.au

Languages – Jason Heffernan

Year 8 Languages students participated in an exciting and immersive cultural incursion on Thursday 24 July, presented by Lion Dance Kids. This was a valuable opportunity for all students regardless of their current language of study to continue to develop intercultural awareness and understanding, which are very important attributes to have as members of our wonderfully diverse Australian community.  

Stefan, Kelly-Ann, Andrew and Clarine from Lion Dance Kids introduced the ancient legends and cultural stories underlying lion dance, discussing the symbolism and cultural beliefs attached to this art form. They provided highly insightful explanations of the traditional percussion instruments, the role of rhythm, and the symbolism of the costumes along with energetic live demonstrations.  

Much of the session was devoted to active involvement, with students taking turns to try out the moves and control the mechanisms of the costumes themselves. Thank you to our wonderful St Bede’s students for their enthusiastic participation and thank you to Lion Dance Kids for a wonderful day of celebrating culture!  

Sport – Belinda Watts

2025 St Bede’s Athletics Carnival

Congratulations to every member of the St Bede’s Community that attended the Athletics Carnival at Maitland Athletics Centre on Friday 25 July. “School spirit” was on show with students and teachers decked out in their house colours, cheering on the races and singing their house cheers loudly and proudly. There were so many students demonstrating the “have a go” attitude and participating in numerous novelty and athletic events on the day. House Leaders you should be very proud of your efforts. It was also great to see MANY records broken on the day in both track and field events.

While our carnivals are a community event, it is important to recognise both the House Champions and the Individual Age Champions. Good luck to all students who are participating in the Diocesan Athletics Carnival on Wednesday 20 August at Glendale.

CONGRATULATIONS to our KING and QUEEN of the track

(Our fastest runners in the school)

House Scores

WINNERS -   BENEDICT  

Records Broken

12 Girls 100m - Rose Punton 14.14
16 Girls 100m - Anita Olie 13.22
14 Girls 200m - Annie Lidbury 28.05
16 Girls 200m - Anita Olie 28.17
12 Girls 400m - Rose Punton 1:14.34
16 Girls 400m - Lily Sutton 1:04.64
16 Girls 800m - Lily Sutton 2:38.78
16 Girls Long Jump - Lily Sutton 4.56m
14 Girls Triple Jump - Shelby Griffis 8.71m
14 Girls Javelin - Charlotte Gruber 18.59m
16 Girls Javelin - Laura Moir 14.51m
16 Girls Discus - Lily Sutton 19.21m
14 Girls Shot put - Shelby Griffis 9.50m
16 Girls Shot put - Eve Power 9.63m

14 Boys 100m - Phoenix Borja 12.34
16 Boys 100m - Ben Nicholls 12.06
18 Boys 100m - Chrispen Mabodza 11.72
17 Boys 400m - Harry Lidbury 53.08
16 Boys 800m - Zachary Thomson 2:09.87
13 Boys High Jump - Darcy Bendeich 1.55m
14 Boys Long Jump - Phoenix Borja 5.22m
16 Boys Long Jump - Joshua Pearson 5.44
18 Boys Long Jump - Gabriel Borja 5.87m
13 Boys Javelin - Finnian Brownlee 30.1m
15 Boys Javelin - Isaac Panton 23.44m
17 Boys Javelin - Louis Corner 30.22m
12 Boys Discus - Ethan Ross Varghese 17.32m
13 Boys Discus - Finnian Brownlee 34.82m
13 Boys Shot put - Finnian Brownlee 11.82m
18 Boys Shot put - Kale White 10.29m

NOVELTY EVENTS:

• 1st: Marian
• 2nd: Dominic
• 3rd: Benedict
• 4th: McAuley

Novelty Individual Winners:

• Best Dressed: Abigail Anderberg (Dominic)
• Lolly Jar Guess: Chelsea Dilley (Dominic)
• 1st Place Rebound Ball: Liam Bowling and Elijah Antcliff (McAuley)
• 2nd Place Rebound Ball: Addison Elbourne and Charlotte Palmer (McAuley and Benedict)

NSW All School Cross Country

The NSW All Schools Cross Country Carnival was held on the 22 July at Sydney International Equestrian Centre. Zach Thomson and Lachlan Jones both competed in the 16yr event and both improved on their previous runs considerably. This is a difficult course, and we commend them both on their efforts. Caleb Hyslop (Yr7) also competed in the Multiclass event and placed 5th, only just missing out on Nationals! Great effort Caleb. 

Zach Thomson has also qualified for Australian XC Championships in Ballarat on 23 August with a qualifying time of 20:54 at NSW XC Championship on 21 June in Nowra and we wish him all the best.

Outstanding Achievement on the World Stage!

Congratulations to Maddi Harper (Year 11), who recently represented Australia at the Asian, African & Pacific Championships held on 10th July in Himeji, Japan. Competing in the U52kg Sub-Junior category, Maddi delivered an exceptional performance and claimed first place overall.

Her achievements included:

• Silver medal in the squat with an impressive lift of 120kg
• Gold medal in the bench press with a powerful 80kg
• Gold medal and a new world record in the deadlift with an extraordinary 158kg lift

Maddi’s remarkable strength, dedication, and competitive spirit have placed her among the best in the world. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next!

SERVICE & GOVERNANCE DOMAIN

School Fees – Kylie Murray

2025 School Fee Information

Concessions on Tuition Fees are given to account holders with a current Health Care/Pension card. Please complete link below and attach a copy of your current card.

Annual Fee Payments

A reminder that if you nominated to finalise your account annually with one payment, this was due on 30 June 2025 and is now considered overdue, please bring your account up to date. Finance will be contacting these debtors directly.

Ongoing Fee Payments

Fees were billed in March and ongoing payment arrangements have been established for those paying weekly, fortnightly or monthly instalments. As per your condition of enrolment these ongoing fees are to ensure your account is fully paid by 30 November 2025.

Account Statements

Updated statements are emailed at the beginning of each month and you can also view a live balance anytime in Compass. If you are not receiving your monthly statements, please contact Finance asap.

Support

The Catholic Schools Office declares that genuine inability to meet tuition and other fees, does not exclude access to a school within the system by a child of a family genuinely committed to Catholic faith and practice.

For families experiencing genuine Financial Hardship or wishing to discuss other payment arrangements please email finance@chisholmsb.catholic.edu.au to arrange a confidential meeting.

Contact

If you require additional assistance in calculating your preferred instalment, please contact Finance. Alternatively there is a breakdown tool available in the bottom right-hand corner of your statement to show weekly, fortnightly and monthly figures to conclude by the end of November.

If you require any assistance, please contact Finance
finance@chisholmsb.catholic.edu.au

Other News

Year 12 2023 – 2024 ALUMNI

School Student Travel 2025

School student travel information for parents and students

Applications are now open for 2025 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS)

Terms of Use

Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off  in line with the Opal terms of use.

This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.

All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.

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: https://shop-williamson.com.au/