REPORT 2 0 2 3
Indigenous Acknowledgement
The St Edmund’s College community respectfully acknowledges the past and present traditional owners of this land on which we assemble, the Ngunnawal people It is a privilege to be standing on Ngunnawal country Together we acknowledge the contributions of Aboriginal Australians and nonAboriginal Australians to the education of all children and people in this country we all live in and share together
As an Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) school, we follow the formal expression of EREA’s commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education and to Reconciliation by supporting the EREA’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Educational Response (2014) for Access, Authentic Relationships, Quality Education, Education for Reconciliation, Justice and Advocacy, and Spirituality and Cultural Awareness for all students in our care
Mike Brennan
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Coordinator
College Advisory Council
The St Edmund’s College Canberra Advisory Council works collaboratively with the Principal, Leadership Team and EREA Executive to ensure faithfulness to the Charter for Catholic Schools in the Edmund Rice Tradition and quality stewardship aimed at offering the best possible learning at the College
The College Advisory Council provides advice to the Principal and has particular responsibilities for:
Faithfulness to the EREA Charter and Touchstones
Collaborating with the Principal on submissions to EREA for Strategic Planning, Budget and annual audited statements and capital works and master planning
Endorsement of major policies that are consistent with EREA
Support for the Principal in relation to compliance with EREA Risk Policy
The College Advisory Council also provides advice and support to the principal on any matters referred to by the Principal, and any significant matter that falls within its delegated responsibilities It is also represented on selection panels for some senior appointments, and participates in School Renewal and leader appraisal processes
Appointed by EREA on the recommendation of the Principal and Advisory Council Chair, Members are chosen to meet the expertise needs of the College Advisory Council, not as representatives of any body
The Principal is an ex officio member of the Advisory Council
COLLEGE ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS
John Owens (Chair)
Chris Collett
Craig Wagstaff
Wendy Brookman
Julie Fitzgerald
Deborah Clayton-Baker
Jamie Haynes
Gerard Tiffen
Principal's Report
“Let us consider how to stir one another to love and good works.”
Hebrews 10: 24-25
2022 College Scriptural Theme
During 2023 we continued to excel collectively in various sports at the College, with individual students achieving significant milestones at local, national, and even international levels We also continued providing an academic program to ensure that all of our students are given every opportunity to succeed, achieve and take any path open to them
Our performing arts program featured a captivating Cabaret performance and innovative strides in Music, Drama, and Media, while the establishment of a drum line garnered widespread appreciation As always, the annual Edmums Soiree and Blue and White Ball garnered widespread support, and I extend my sincere thanks to the vast number of our community members who attended and supported the College and the Old Boys and Friends Association in these events Heritage Day was another resounding success, beginning with the Old Boys Mass in our Blessed Sacrament Chapel and featuring a day of Rugby against Marist College The theme of our Heritage Jersey, designed by our Visual Arts teacher Peter Fatupaito, highlighted the special place of the Pacific Peoples’ culture within our College Our Old Boys and Friends Association, led by Matt De Jongh (Class of 1991) continued to strengthen the sense of community spirit with parents, old boys, and the wider community This Association has been a steadfast supporter of the College, and I thank the Committee and its members for their time, energy, and commitment
I would like to acknowledge the College Leadership Team for their support and hard work in moving the College forward during 2023, as well as our College Advisory Council for their support and guidance this year
The St Edmund’s College Foundation is actively working on formulating a philanthropy program for the College, and has worked diligently on overseeing an investment program aimed at providing financial assistance to marginalised or disadvantaged families, alleviating the cost of educating their sons. I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to the Heads of House, Heads of Faculty, teaching staff, and support staff for their daily work and invaluable contributions
Finally, I must express my deep appreciation for our students Their boundless energy and enthusiasm continually amaze me, and their unwavering commitment to the College is truly outstanding. I look forward to working with our young men every day, and I am grateful for their sense of friendship and positive relationships A special mention goes to our College student leaders for 2023 - our Vice Captains Hamish Chapman, Damian Jelfs-Smith, and Liuaki Percival, and our College Captain, Deveraux Tapelu. Their significant contributions have shaped various aspects of College life and exemplified what it means to be a true Eddies boy As we look ahead to 2024, we celebrate our 70th anniversary and proudly stand as Canberra’s oldest continuing Catholic school
Christus Lux Mea
Joe Zavone - Principal
College Profile
St Edmund’s War Memorial College was opened in 1954, During the early 1950’s the Christian Brothers took heed of the call of Catholic parents in the region for a Catholic Secondary Boys’ College. In 1954, the St Edmund’s War Memorial College opened, a first in the Australian Capital Territory The College has been educating boys for over 69 years from Year 4 to Year 12 in the Edmund Rice Tradition As part of the Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) network of schools, St Edmund’s College follows the vision of Edmund Rice:
An inclusive community, committed and supportive of its traditions;
The constant drive to educate and inspire the boys;
Cultivating a synthesis of faith and culture to foster a caring family spirit where boys can realise their full potential
These ideals gave rise to the four Touchstones that form the foundation of everything we do at St Edmunds; Liberating Education, Gospel Spirituality, Inclusive Community, Justice and Solidarity
At St Edmund’s, learning is relational and students are constantly engaged Discussions are guided by trained and experienced staff who encourage exploration and learning autonomy; empowering students to seize every opportunity to succeed We offer an extensive range of academic subjects, as well as a wide range of co-curricular options covering sporting and cultural, and social-justice interests
Our students are encouraged to strive for their very best, both individually and collaboratively This cultivates an appreciation for teamwork, builds character and develops an appreciation for the values of resilience and persistence
College Vision and Mission
St Edmund’s College is a dynamic Catholic all boys school, an inclusive educational community committed to living the message of Jesus Christ We educate and develop boys into young men according to the values and experiences of a Catholic education in the Edmund Rice tradition
Our Vision
To develop boys into young men of vibrant spirit and strong character through tailored learning experiences We do this in the context of an authentic, dynamic and relational Catholic educational community.
Our Mission
As a Catholic college in the tradition of Blessed Edmund Rice, we continually strive to nurture and inspire our students, challenging them to be the best they can be. We offer an innovative and liberating education, based on Gospel spirituality, within an inclusive community committed to justice and solidarity We encourage young men to be aspirational regarding their future, to develop a social conscience, to think critically and contribute positively to a world beyond St Edmund’s.
As a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition, St Edmund’s College aims to provide a holistic and inclusive education that integrates faith, culture and learning This is reliant on having dedicated, energised and innovative staff who strive to motivate students to achieve their potential and experience success The result is authentic, relevant, dynamic and creative learning experiences for students who are engaged, challenged and supported
Staff Profile
During the August 2023 Census, the school boasted a staff complement of 99, with a near-perfect split of 49 female and 50 male employees One principal is dedicated to our Junior Campus and one to our Senior Campus Our team consists of 64 teachers, supported by 5 specialist support teachers and 18 administrative and clerical members, while 11 colleagues look after our facilities and buildings In 2023, one male member of staff identified as indigenous
Teacher Qualifications and Professional Development
All teaching staff at the College are appropriately qualified, with several holding post-graduate degrees and multiple specialist qualifications In accordance with ACT legislation and requirements, all teaching staff have valid ACT Teacher Quality Institute (TQI) Registration or a Permit to Teach
All VET Staff have a current Certificate IV in Training and Assessing and hold the relevant qualifications and experience in the subject area they teach
In 2023, all staff participated in a range of individual and/or team professional learning opportunities as part of the College’s Professional Learning Program These were either provided externally by professional deliverers, the Teacher Quality Institute, teaching associations or internally as part of the staff Professional Learning Program
Community Development
Experience Eddies Day
Experience Eddies Day is targeted at prospective students going into Years 4 – 7 This day gives potential students to experience what it is like to be an Eddies Boy, by creating an Eddies experience for them. Throughout the day students take part in College classes including Information Technology, Food Technology, Science, Physical Education, and Applied Sciences (woodwork). Each class is run by a teacher and assisted by current students The day is set up to encourage prospective students to develop an understanding of the expectations of St Edmund’s and to begin meaningful relationships and current students and staff members If the student chooses St Edmund’s, this day can provide an effective social framework to help them transition. In 2023, Experience Eddies Day was held in both March and July.
Open Evening
The College Open Evening is held to provide prospective students and their families the opportunity to explore the College facilities, as well as meet our staff and students Current junior students acted as guides to escort visitors, with each faculty setting up an exhibition along the tour route. Food technology students made and served finger food to guests, keeping the atmosphere friendly and welcoming Each family was able to become acquainted with the aspects of the college their son/s were most interested in.
Open Evening in 2023 was held in early March
Open Evening
Edmums
The Edmums High Tea was held on a Friday in June at The Marion, to thank all past and present mums, grandmothers, and carers for the exceptional work they have done in their son’s lives The afternoon was catered, including a selection of sandwiches, pastries and cakes, as well as a small gift bag given to each attendee to take home. The afternoon was highly successful, building the relationship between the College and mother figures.
Social Media
The Community Development Office continued to have a strong presence on social media. Both Facebook and Instagram accounts were platforms that were used to engage the community with content such as co-curricular and academic celebrations, special events, and life around Eddies , as well as the ‘Throwback Thursday’ feature Our audience engagement continues to increase
Old Boys and Friends Association
The Old Boys and Friends Association plays a central role in the relationship between the College Alumni and the current staff and students. The Association helps the College to keep in touch with their history and heritage by bridging the gap between past and present The annual Blue and White Ball was held in late July, followed by Heritage Round the following day The annual Golf Day was held in December, with all events very popular with the St Edmund’s community.
Edmums High Tea
Pastoral Care
2023 has been a productive year with no interruptions to learning, providing our students with opportunities to grow, experience memorable moments, overcome challenges, and develop a sense of identity
In addition to activities, programs and initiatives that contribute to the growth and development of each child’s social and emotional development, mental health and spiritual evolution, the primary focus of the St Edmund’s pastoral program remains the holistic development of each individual to foster a sense of pride, community, and respect Initiatives focus building a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment for young minds to thrive personally and academically
Our counselling services and various intervention programs were ultimately allowed to continue thanks to Ms Sharon Harrison and Ms Philomena Burke, who started at the College in Term 3 Ms Harrison also brought with her Frank and Rosie, two beautiful therapy dogs, who have been a welcome addition to our community
Our Diverse Learning team introduced some great intervention programs this year including the Big Brother initiative, Seasons for Growth, Cool Kids as well as the gardening and Lego programs These programs target the specific needs of some of our more vulnerable students and help to build leadership and resilience in those who participate
The College community also embraced many national campaigns in recognition of various charities, causes and social awareness projects Examples include Mr MacArthur’s “switch off” initiative in March, which encouraged classes to switch off devices and power in aiming to promote reducing our energy use On 14 September, students recognised R U Ok Day, a day where we as a nation focus on checking in with mates and becoming aware of the mental health of those around us During November, many senior students and staff members grew moustaches in recognition of Movember which focuses on men’s health, in particular mental health, and awareness of prostate cancer
On 17 November members of our Eddie’s community gathered together to complete the Bridge-to-Bridge walk in recognition of White Ribbon Day, a day where we shed light on the Australian crisis of violence against women and encourage our boys to be part of ending this trend that has occurred for too long.
The Year 12 Graduation period is always a proud celebration, with the Rites of Passage Week setting in motion an incredible commemoration of this achievement This year, the week began with an Old Boys BBQ breakfast where the president of the Old Boys Association addressed the boys and presented them with their Old Boys caps, after which we joined St Clare’s Year 12 cohort for a BBQ luncheon. On the Wednesday, Brent Sanders delivered a final seminar about risk-taking and consent and on Thursday boys got together to sign shirts and finish off the day with a final liturgy together The week rounded off with House farewell speeches, which is always an emotional event, because many boys view this as a farewell to family
Finally, the formal Year 12 Graduation Day was celebrated with a series of events It started at St Christopher’s Cathedral, filled with students and families celebrating graduation Mass together Following Mass, the Academic Awards assembly was held in the College hall where the achievements of so many students were recognized At the end of the assembly, the boys were farewelled by the College community with a wonderful guard of honour In a fitting end to the day, Year 12 and their parents with members of staff, celebrated with a dinner at the Hellenic Club Here more major awards were given out to those students who have been outstanding in various areas of College life other than academic It was a brilliant way to send the Year 12 students off into their chosen pathways following life at school. The end of Year also finished off with the announcement of the Therese Kitney House Shield for 2023 This highly valued status symbol and prized award is battled over by the Heads of House and students throughout the year The award is based on competitive spirit, academic achievements and engagement and sporting success. The winning House for 2023 was Haydon House
The College is fortunate to have the commitment of the St Edmund’s staff and the involvement of the whole community Six highly competent and dedicated Heads of House commit their days to the boys in their care, and contribute enormously to the emotional and social development of our young men We eternally are grateful to the parents, families and friends who sacrifice so much to help raise these wonderful young people
Monica Day Assistant Principal – Student Wellbeing
Curriculum
Teaching and Learning
IThe relationships that students build with their teachers are the foundation of teaching and learning at St Edmund’s College When these relationships are right, teachers are not just educators; they are mentors, guides, and sources of inspiration who cultivate an atmosphere where every student feels heard, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential These relationships can then extend beyond the classroom, fostering trust, respect, and a sense of belonging that makes our school a true learning community We are blessed to have been able to welcome into this community as leaders of learning a number of talented educators We welcomed Ms Rasmussen as Head of Creative and Performing Arts and Ms Davis as Head of Science In acting roles, Mr Burke stepped in admirably as Head of English and Languages, and Ms Gibson for Ms Millar as Head of Diverse Learning while she was on leave for Term 4 Mr Masters was also new to the role of Careers and VET coordinator, in which he performed admirably and to the great benefit of the students
The 2023 school year, like any year, brought thousands of setbacks and triumphs, some small and some large, for both staff and students, but the growth of the students on the whole was distinct and remarkable. We are very proud of our graduating class of 2023 and excited for them as they embark on the next phase of their lives. We hope that they will always remain learners at heart and that they will see what they gained with us at St Edmund’s College not only as a matter of knowledge acquired or qualifications granted, but that they will cherish the gift of learning as a light for their lives and remember this gift not as one that we bestowed, but one that was greatly nurtured during their time here
Tim Bibbens
Assistant Principal – Teaching & Learning
Academic Profile
The following tables indicates the academic attainment of Year 12 students in 2023:
Naplan Results 2023 - results for Years 5, 7 and 9 students are represented below:
Co-curricular
In 2023 the College was able to settle back into a regular co-curricular routine, and we did so without missing a beat, testimony to the strong and vibrant school community we have here at Eddies Our boys were able to engage in all of what our cocurricular program has to offer, with a variety of choice that reflects a well-rounded balance of interests, passions, and something new to try With swimming and athletics carnivals, along with cross-country events on offer in Term 1, our boys could engage with a strong Eddies spirit as they represented themselves and their respective houses. Those students selected at these events went on to represent our school at regional, state, and national levels; a great achievement for not only themselves and their families but also a badge of pride for St Edmund’s to herald
This year we saw a change in faces in our Performing Arts department, with new staff members weaving their passion and magic, Mrs Rachel Rasmussen, Mrs Leanne Thomas, Mr Rhys Hekimian, along with Mr Peter Fatupaito, took the reins to lead this year’s Cabaret production; a great performance of “A Night at the Movies” It was funny, very clever, and provided all the students involved with an opportunity to showcase their diverse skills and talents. The team put an extraordinary amount of time and effort into the production, and this was certainly reflected in the quality of the performances
In addition to sport and arts, you’ll find our boys engaged in all types of science experiments, new and exciting styles of chess play Some corners have boys engaged in classic and contemporary topics in debating, or learning and immersing themselves in all that the Japanese and culture club to offer Further afield at the shores of Lake Burley Griffin or the mountains at Stromlo, our boys are enjoying various outdoor activities and experiences These opportunities allow the boys to express themselves, find joy, be creative and find exciting challenges to overcome. These examples demonstrate the strong and diverse cocurricular program St Edmund’s offers, along with building strong relationships with fellow students, staff, and an amazing community of volunteers A massive thank you must go out to all of our staff and volunteers who engage, assist and lead parts of our co-curricular program, all with the focus of adding to the rich culture here, a community within which our boys feel welcomed and safe I truly look forward to what we can develop from this year and grow within our co-curricular program for 2024 and beyond, especially leading into our 70th year
Thank you to everyone who invests their time, passions, expertise, and efforts in our boys in this space.
Lee Boswell Co-curricular Manager
Service -
Social Justice
Our scriptural theme for St Edmund’s College in 2023 was “Everyone who asks, receives Everyone who seeks, finds Everyone who knocks the door will be opened ” Luke 11:9-10 This scriptural passage animated the EREA touchstone of Gospel Spirituality. The point of this is to bring the word of God to our community, in a way that is easy to understand and accessible for all Throughout the year we used this as a point of reflection and as a tool to animate our core mission as a Catholic school which is to make Christ known and loved.
Sacramental Program
The Sacramental Program was further strengthened in its third year with one Baptism and thirty-eight students making either their Reconciliation, First Holy Communion or Confirmation
Our retreats were held at each year level and our students really enjoyed being together and learning about faith and their place in the world Retreat Program
Social Justice
We continued to raise awareness and funds for our Social Justice partners in Caritas, HOME in Queanbeyan, Karinya House and St Vincent De Paul
Br Matt McKeown Faith and Service Awards Recipients - Founders Day 2023
Congratulations to the following recipients:
Student- Connor Moloney
Staff- Fred Zarb
Old Boy- Tony LoPilato
I would personally like to thank Carmela Wilson Head of Religious Education Department and Bridget Cusack our Religious Education Coordinator for the Junior school who have a huge support to the school in so many ways in 2023 To Fr Chris Eaton MGL, for his support in the Sacramental life of the school, his support is unwavering, many thanks.
Let us keep praying for our students, staff, families, and wider world
Michael Monagle
Assistant Principal - Mission and Identity
Enrolments
As at Census date 2023, there were 812 boys enrolled in the school Below is a breakdown of enrolments by year group:
Student Retention
102 students completed Year 10 in 2021. Of these, 86 completed Year 12 in 2023, suggesting a retention rate of 84%
Characteristics of the Student Body
·All male
Non-selective
Approximately 37 8% of the student population in 2023 reported being Catholic
·Students are aged 8 to 18 years
4 31% of the student population is Indigenous
Attendance
Junior School
Year 4, 5 and 6 rolls are marked twice a day by the class teacher, once after morning assembly and once after lunch.
Students who arrive late, sign in at the Junior School Office If students arrive late or depart during the day, this is entered into the College’s absence management system by the junior school administrator
An explanation from parents / carers is required for every absence, in accordance with the College’s Attendance Policy All unexplained absences are followed with SMS communication to parents on the day of the absence, with parents able to respond with options via text to explain the absence.
Senior and High School
Year 7 to 12 rolls are marked in the morning in Tutor Groups and on a period-by-period basis
Students who arrive late, sign in at the Student Services Office Students are not permitted to leave college grounds during the day unless they have written parental permission or are granted permission by their Head of House, Assistant Principal (student wellbeing) or the Deputy Principal
The student services administrator also manages student departures during the day
The attendance rates of each year group is provided below:
Parents are asked to contact the College on the morning that the student is absent If an absence remains unexplained, parents / carers are contacted by SMS. Parents are able to respond via SMS with three options to explain their son’s absence If a response is not received, it is expected that a note explaining the absence will be provided the day the student returns to the College
Income and Expenditure
During 2023, 94% of the Colleges income was derived from Fees and Levies (48%) and Federal Grants (37%), followed by ACT grants (9%) The remaining 6% was generated via alternative sources such as the College Building Fund, Interest earned, and other grants obtained.
The largest expenses were in Employee costs (71%), Operating expenses (15%) and Depreciation (9%), while Faculty costs, Maintenance, Co-Curricular expenses and other costs constituted approximately 5% of all 2023 expenses
Registration
St Edmund’s College is registered as a School for students in Years 4 to 12 at 110 Canberra Avenue Griffith ACT.
The period of Registration is 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2025
Members of the community can obtain a copy of the most recent registration report from the College’s Compliance and Administration Manager, Leon Grobler at lgrobler@sec act edu au
Spirit. Strong Character. Tailored Learning
Vibrant