The buzz is back! It was wonderful to welcome our new Year 7 students on Monday morning, along with our returning Year 9, 11, and 12 students. There was a mix of nerves and excitement in the air. A big thank you to our Welcoming Community Group for organising the morning tea for our new Year 7 parents.

We then welcomed our Year 8 and 10 students back on Tuesday, where they were also informed and inspired to embrace this year's theme 'Lean In'. We anticipate many great opportunities for our students at St Bernard’s this year and encourage them to lean in to every challenge, embrace the opportunities and make 2026 a great year!

Today, we gathered to celebrate our Opening College Mass. It was wonderful to have Fr Bernie Lane, an old collegian of St Bernard's, as our celebrant, as he spoke of the Gospel's lessons of care and duty. We were also honoured to welcome special guests from EREA and the School Advisory Council.

The celebration ended with a community address from our College Principal, Dr Michael Davies, who welcomed our new Year 7's and congratulated all our students on a great first week. 

It was wonderful to see our newly minted 2026 College Captains taking an active role in various parts of the Mass, already leading by example. As always, our talented musicians enhanced the celebration with their beautiful performances.

As we embark on this new academic journey, we are committed to living out our touchstones: providing a liberating education, grounded in gospel spirituality, within an inclusive community dedicated to justice and solidarity. Both Fr Bernie and Dr Davies emphasised our theme for 2026: to 'Lean In' to challenges and opportunities.

We look forward to a successful and fulfilling year ahead, united in our mission and values.

Farewell and Blessings for Mr Luke Rochford

A bittersweet moment at our Opening Mass today as we farewelled Mr Luke Rochford. Many students and families know Luke as a dedicated and attentive teacher, but he has also been exploring a deeper vocational calling.

Luke will be leaving our school to continue his journey toward the priesthood, entering the seminary to complete his formation and training. While we are sad to see him go, we are immensely proud of his courage, faith, and generosity in answering this call.

During the Mass, Fr Bernie Lane offered Luke a special blessing, acknowledging his service to our community and praying for God’s guidance as he begins this next chapter.

We thank Luke for everything he has brought to our school and community, and he leaves with our gratitude, prayers, and full support!

Our Year 12 Student Leaders returned to Santa Monica over the weekend for another enriching Leadership Camp.

The boys engaged in team-building challenges, coaching workshops, cooking, raft-making, and racing, in a weekend filled with learning and camaraderie. 

It was wonderful to welcome back Hayden, our 2025 College Captain, as he generously provided his time and learnings from his year at the helm.

A special acknowledgment to Ms Tran, Ms O’Neill, Mr Blevins, Mr Tinsey and Mr Sweeney - their commitment and generosity facilitated a truly transformative weekend for all.

This unforgettable experience provided our student leadership team with a wonderful opportunity for growth and some fun before embarking on a significant year leading our community at St Bernard’s.

We're excited to announce our next free networking event (and first for 2026!)

St Bernard’s College warmly invites parents and alumni working in the Legal and Finance sectors to this exclusive networking evening on Thursday, 26 February. 

Join us in the relaxed setting of the Peter Hogan Boardroom for drinks, canapés, and meaningful conversation with like-minded professionals. For our young alumni aspiring to a legal or financial career, this an excellent opportunity to ask questions, build connections and gain insight from professionals in our community.

We're delighted to welcome Patrick O’Brien (Class of ’81) as our featured guest speaker, who is highly accomplished in both the legal and finance sectors.

Register for this complimentary event here: https://www.trybooking.com/DJGAH

A reminder that our House Athletics Carnival will be held on Thursday 12th February 2026 at the Essendon Campus. This whole-school event is always highly anticipated!

Nagle House are the reigning champions - can they hold on to the crown?

Further information, including a timetable for the day, will be communicated in the coming days.