Term 1, Week 5

Over the past fortnight, our St Laurence’s College community has experienced both profound sorrow and deep moments of unity, faith and hope. Schools are places where life unfolds in all its fullness. Moments of celebration and success sit alongside moments of grief. It is in these times that the strength of community and the spirit of Edmund Rice become most visible.

The passing of Noah and Samuel has deeply affected our College community. As a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice Tradition, we believe strongly that no member of our community walks alone, particularly in times of loss. The compassion, care and quiet strength shown by students, staff and families over recent days have been a powerful reminder of what it means to belong to St Laurence’s College.

Walking together, our priority has been, and continues to be, the wellbeing of our young people and our staff. Staff have worked tirelessly to provide support, maintain routine and create spaces where students can talk, reflect or simply be together. Often, it is the small gestures, like checking in on a mate, sitting beside someone at lunchtime, offering patience and understanding or simply being present, that become the most meaningful expressions of care. We have many people acting in this way every day and our community is better for it. It is our hope that we all know that you are not alone at Laurie’s.

This Friday morning, our Year 7 and Year 12 students gathered for a Mass in Solidarity with invited families. The Mass was an opportunity to connect. Following Mass, there was a light breakfast, and for the students in these year levels, there were some activities. Remaining connected and open to conversation will be an ongoing part of our journey as a College.  As people of faith, we entrust God’s loving care and commit ourselves to supporting one another in the days ahead.

At the centre of all we do will be our thoughts and prayers for the Bourke and Liu families. On behalf of both these families and the College, we thank all of the community for the outpouring of support and kindness that connects us all.

Live Jesus in Our Hearts. . . Forever!

Celebrating Faith Together

Last week, we were honoured to gather as a College community for our Commencement Mass, celebrated by Archbishop Shane Mackinlay and Father Will. The Mass marked not simply the beginning of an academic year, but the renewal of our intent to provide a Liberating Education grounded in faith, Inclusive Community, justice and hope.

We were fortunate to be joined by guests from Edmund Rice Education Australia Colleges, University of Queensland, Old Boy’s, School Advisory Council Members, Old Boy's Foundation members and friends of the College.

The Mass was a fantastic celebration and it was great to hear the College in full voice for the first time this year.

Similarly, our Year 6 Leaders Liturgy was a significant moment for our Primary School. Leadership at Laurie's is understood not as status, but as service. Watching our youngest leaders accept their responsibilities with humility and enthusiasm was a powerful sign of the values being nurtured within our community from the earliest years.

Living Justice: Show Your Colours Day

Our Primary School today celebrated “Show Your Colours Day” in support of Caritas Australia. This initiative invites students to express solidarity with communities around the world while learning about justice, compassion and global responsibility. Well done to our Primary gents.

The Arts Flourish at Laurie's

We are delighted to celebrate the reopening of the newly renovated McElligott Theatre, a space that has long been central to the creative life of the College. The refurbishment ensures that future generations of Laurie's students will continue to experience the transformative power of performance and storytelling in a modern and inspiring environment.

The Arts remain a vital dimension of education at St Laurence’s College. Participation in music, drama and performance nurtures creativity, confidence, collaboration and empathy. We look forward to the use of McElligott Theatre this week.

In this spirit, we warmly congratulate the St Laurence’s students who this week performed in the Loreto College Musical. Their commitment, talent and willingness to collaborate across school communities has demonstrated both maturity and initiative. We congratulate them on their achievements and are grateful to the staff and families who support these opportunities.

AIC Sport

Best wishes to all of our teams competing against Marist College Ashgrove this weekend. May you compete with sportsmanship, humility and Laurie’s determination.

Moving Forward Together

As we continue through the term, may we remain attentive to one another, grateful for the gift of community and committed to ensuring that every young person at St Laurence’s College knows they belong.