We’ve reached the final newsletter of the year, and what a huge year we’ve had!  Looking back on our year, there are so many things that we can be very proud of! I’d like to mention 4 of my highlight, aligned with our 4 school values:

Stewardship - We have so many wonderful ‘green’ initiatives here at St Benedict’s, but one that stands out to me was our EcoFest organised by our 5/6 Turtles.  They did such a good job of organising a wonderful event, which showcased not just the work they have done in helping the environment, but the work that EVERY class has done, AS WELL AS what members of our community are doing to sustain our natural environment.

Community - Our P&F have done a wonderful job in organising many wonderful community events.  Even casting our minds back to the floods at the start of the year, they were instrumental in the sausage sizzle provided to all students on their first day back.  One event that I didn’t get to but hear was a hit was our Burgers by the Billabong, supported beautifully by our families. I look forward to the great work our P&F are sure to do next year!

Love - I see our students and teachers show a great love and support for one another every day, it’s something special about our school.  I wanted to share a story however about one small action with has stuck with me. At the Mission Market Stalls a boy was lent some money from a friend ($2).  He went a spent $1.50, and with the last 50c he had, he bought a chocolate for his friend to say thanks. I just thought it was very touching and a very genuine act of love.

Learning - Learning is what we do best at St Benedict’s.  I’ve been fortunate to teach music and drama this year, and I loved working with some of our older students to prepare poems and group dramas for the Eisteddfod.  I was very proud of the students who were able to get up and show off the things they have learnt.

Of course, this is only a very brief snapshot, but I truly believe we can be proud of the community we are building at St Benedict’s.

I would urge everyone if they are able to attend some of our events in the last week, including our End of Year Liturgy on Monday and O Holy Night Christmas Carols event on Wednesday night.

I wish you all a very happy and holy Christmas break, and look forward to seeing you back in 2020!

Have a great week and God bless,

Nick