Edmund Rice Education Australia Touchstone

Inclusive Community

As a Catholic School in the Edmund Rice Tradition, we provide pastoral care that nurtures the dignity of each person as uniquely reflecting the image of God.

R U OK? Week at St Edward’s: The Power of a Simple Question

This week, we come together as a College community to acknowledge R U OK? Week—a national initiative that encourages us to check in with one another and foster meaningful conversations around mental health and wellbeing.

Mental health challenges affect people of all ages and walks of life. In educational settings, students, staff, and families often carry invisible burdens. Stress, anxiety, loneliness, and burnout can go unnoticed unless we make space for meaningful conversations. R U OK? Week encourages us to be proactive in supporting one another, fostering a culture where asking “Are you OK?” is not just a phrase, but a lifeline.

Why It Matters

Mental health is everyone’s responsibility. By creating space for open dialogue, we help reduce stigma, build trust, and empower our community to support one another. R U OK? Week is not just about awareness—it’s about action.

Student-Led Initiatives at St Edward’s

We are proud to share that all the activities that have been planned and implemented throughout this week were developed by our Student Leadership Team, who have shown great initiative in designing a program that promotes connection, wellbeing, and support across the College.

Some of the activities include:

Monday – Kick Off

• Visual awareness campaign
• Homeroom announcements to introduce the week

Tuesday – Conversation Starters

• Homeroom discussions
• ‘Conversation Wall’ for students to share messages of support
• Roleplays and discussions in RE classes

Wednesday – Active Wellbeing

• Student-run basketball competition at lunch

Thursday – Jersey Day

• Wear yellow or your favourite sports jersey (gold coin donation)
• Table tennis competition during lunch

Friday – Reflect and Connect

• Special assembly segment to wrap up the week and reflect on its impact

Let’s Make a Difference

Whether it’s through a conversation, a shared activity, or simply showing up in support, every action this week contributes to a stronger, more connected St Edward’s community. Let’s continue to ask, listen, and support—because you don’t need to be an expert to help, just a good friend and a great listener.

2026 College Captain and Vice-Captain Announcement

On Wednesday, September 3, the College celebrated the Prefect Induction Mass. Father Vince Casey, Parish Priest from Terrigal joined staff, students, and families for a special ceremony where our newly elected prefects were formally inducted into their roles. This event also provided an opportunity to recognise the 2025 prefects for their dedication and leadership throughout the year.

During the celebration, we also announced the 2026 College Captains and Vice Captains. I am delighted to share with our community that Thomas Perham has been appointed as College Captain, with Isaac McCudden and Angus Stewart serving as College Vice Captains. Congratulations to Thomas, Angus, and Isaac on their appointments. I wish them every success in their new roles and look forward to collaborating with them and all the prefects in serving our St Edward’s community.

Thomas Perham

Isaac McCudden

Angus Stewart

Edmund Rice Education Australia: Welcoming Global Guests to St Edward’s

St Edward’s College has been privileged to host two inspiring guests as part of our commitment to global connection through Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders (EREBB).

Last week, we welcomed Samuel Karanja from Kenya, who works with the Edmund Rice Foundation. Samuel plays a vital role in supporting our annual immersion program to Kenya, helping to facilitate transformative experiences for students and staff. His visit provided valuable insights into the Foundation’s work and the impact of our shared mission in communities across East Africa.

This week, we are honoured to host Samuel Mafoko, also known as ‘Words’, from St Boniface High School in South Africa. Samuel is a passionate educator and a committed advocate for strengthening the global connections between Edmund Rice schools. His visit reflects the spirit of solidarity and shared learning that defines the EREBB network.

Highlights of Their Visits Include:

• Classroom visits and student workshops
• Cultural exchange and storytelling sessions
• Dialogue around leadership, identity, and justice
• Special presentations during assemblies and staff meetings

These visits remind us that while our schools may be separated by geography, we are united by a shared commitment to compassion, inclusion, and hope. We thank both Samuels for their generosity, wisdom, and the inspiration they bring to our College community.

Samuel Karanja Speaking to Year 7

Samuel Mafoko in a Year 12 HSIE Class