Current Edition | Term 2, Week 3

As I return to the College community following a period of leave and the privilege of attending the Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders (EREBB) Congress in Argentina, I do so with a deep sense of gratitude, reflection and hope. To have the opportunity to gather with educators and leaders from across the global Edmund Rice network was both humbling and inspiring. Animated by the theme of “walking in the footsteps of Pope Francis” and the importance of encounter, the Congress was an opportunity to explore and collaborate around the character that defines an Edmund Rice School.

During his time as Pope, Pope Francis consistently reminded us that authentic leadership begins not in status or position, but in relationship. His call to “go to the margins” and to genuinely encounter others resonates deeply with the Edmund Rice charism and with the mission of St Laurence’s College. Across the week in Argentina, there was a strong sense that Catholic education, when lived fully, is about creating communities where people are known, valued and challenged to become their very best selves. A message certainly lived at Laurie’s.

This week’s Blessed Edmund Rice Feast Day Mass provided a wonderful opportunity for our community to celebrate the life and legacy of the man whose vision continues to shape our College so profoundly, and who was at the centre of the Congress I have just mentioned. Our young men participated with great reverence and pride, and I thank all staff and students who contributed to such a meaningful liturgy. 

Returning has afforded me an opportunity to re-encounter the many great things across our College with a renewed outlook. One component of the Learning and Teaching team that continues to grow and impress is the work our staff do in their Professional Learning Teams. The commitment of our staff to continuous improvement and collaboration for better learning outcomes for students is commendable. The Professional Learning Teams are engaging deeply in evidence-informed practice, data analysis, curriculum refinement and the sharing of effective pedagogical strategies. The culture of professional growth and shared practice across the College is something of which we should all be proud.

It is also a significant week for the College community as we officially bless our new facilities at Runcorn, this Saturday (Tomorrow). The development of these facilities marks an important step forward in the growth of our sporting and community precinct and reflects our commitment to providing outstanding opportunities for our students.

Over the last few seasons, across all sports, training and fixtures have been inhibited by the deteriorating latent conditions of some of the fields. This week, we will open the new fields with new drainage, new turfing, renovated function centre, new grandstands, new scoreboard, new fencing and improved surrounds. While there is still some work to be done, Saturday will mark a step in the future direction of improved consistency of access and overall facilities for the College.

I thank all those who have contributed to bringing this vision to life, especially Mr Nick Lieschke and Mr Steve Latter from the College and Mr Matt Roache (Old Boy) from Greenspace 4D, who oversaw the project.

Aligning with the opening of the new fields at Runcorn, I wish to acknowledge the significant work undertaken by the staff from different AIC Colleges who have contributed to the AIC working committee for the establishment of a new Code of Conduct for staff, students, players and parents. In an increasingly complex sporting and educational environment, clear expectations around behaviour, respect and sportsmanship are critically important to the success of our competition and the formation of our young men. I would ask all families to familiarise themselves with the updated AIC Code of Conduct. A link can be found here.

This Sunday, we celebrate Mother’s Day, an occasion of enormous significance within our community. For our young men, Mother’s Day provides an important opportunity to pause and acknowledge the extraordinary women who nurture, guide, support and sacrifice so much for their families each and every day. Mothers, grandmothers and mother figures play an immeasurable role in defining young men. In a world that can often move too quickly, Mother’s Day reminds us of the importance of gratitude, presence and love for those who are important to us. On behalf of the College community, I extend sincere thanks and blessings to all mothers and caregivers within our Laurie’s family.

I also acknowledge the multiple Mother’s Day events held across the College this week and thank both the staff involved in the organisation of these events and the mothers who attended.

Over the last month or more, Brisbane has been impacted by changing rail and bus timetables and some limited access to services. At times, the College’s response to transport issues has needed to be swift and responsive. I would like to thank all families for their understanding of the fluidity to transport and sports training that has been required and may be required in the near future.

Best of luck to all teams competing for the College in Chess, Football and Rugby this weekend and I warmly invite all staff, students and members of the community to Runcorn to help celebrate the blessing of the upgraded facilities.