We have just completed a term that is almost back to normal, in that we could engage in some events not possible in the previous 2 terms. We staged our first full school mass in a year on Feast Day, and we could have full school assemblies, and the boys could engage fully in our extensive co curricula programme, which wasn’t the case in the first term.

However, as with many schools, sickness has ravaged the community, and in a number of weeks during the term, we had to cover over 200 classes and on average 20% of the student body were absent at any given time. That takes its toll on any school community, on its systems, and its people, but I want to acknowledge the significant part our staff played to keep learning happening. The boys, recognizing the pressure, also played their part, by adapting well to the challenge of not having their own teacher in front of them all the time. There was plenty of give and take as the whole community responded very well.

The boys have enjoyed the freedom to fully participate in our sports and cultural programmes. Our top football, basketball, hockey, and rugby teams figure near the top of their respective competitions, but what is also heartening are the very large number of boys who take part. We have one of the highest participation rates in the country, and that is in no small way because of the excellent coordination of our sports director, working closely with a large number of volunteer parents, old boys, and staff in the respective clubs.

In the cultural sphere, our top choir has been selected alongside 12 other choirs from the South Island to participate in The Big Sing Cadenza, in Timaru in August. Our two rock bands, the Year 10 Band, The Haizys, and the Year 12 band, Fifty Toes have both progressed through to the regional finals of Rockquest. That was no mean feat, given all musical groups had to rehearse outside during the first term.

The enrolment process for next year is now underway with considerably more applicants than places, as has been the case in previous years. We encourage you to start the enrolment process if you have any family wishing to attend St Bede’s. Visit our website www.stbedes.school.nz or contact the College directly, for further assistance.

Until next month

JG Boyle