As Term 3 draws to a close, we look forward to coming together, staff and students, to celebrate Brigidine Day. On this day, we proudly recognise and celebrate that we are a Catholic school in the Brigidine Tradition.

St Brigid’s ministry began in Ireland in the 4th century and she has been described as “a feisty Irish saint who stood at the threshold between this world and the next, and who is an exemplar for women of feminine strength, creativity, compassion and connection to the earth”. Brigid modelled her life on Jesus and remains close to the hearts of women as an exemplar of justice and peace, reverencing the earth and sharing these gifts with all who ask. These qualities of Brigid remain an inspiration for us all at Kilbreda College.

In 1807, inspired by St Brigid, Bishop Daniel Delaney established the Brigidine Congregation. A small group of Irish women travelled around the world and dedicated their lives to the service of others. As numbers grew, so did the impact of these courageous women. Kilbreda has been blessed by the significant contribution of the many Brigidine sisters who have graced our grounds and been role models of strength and kindliness over many generations.

As we journey together as members of this ‘community of Brigid’, which is what Kilbreda means in Gaelic, may we continue the legacy of Brigid, Daniel and the Sisters of St Brigid and commit ourselves to:

learning with wonder,
living with compassion and
leading with courage,
and always acting with strength and kindliness.

During this holiday period all of our students completing VCE Unit 3/4 subjects will sit formal trial examinations, providing them with a very realistic experience of their final examinations which commence in October. This is a very important part of their preparation for their final VCAA examinations and one that I trust all students will approach seriously and learn from the feedback they receive.

We will also commence the refurbishment of our reception and administration area over the holidays.  As a result of this project, our reception areas (student and visitor), together with our sickbay facility will be relocated for the duration of Term 4. Parents and visitors to the College will access these services via Gate 4 on Como Parade West.  A letter will be sent to all families with further details before the commencement of Term 4.

Term 3 has been filled with wonderful learning opportunities for our students both within the classroom setting and through co-curricular programs and activities. I would like to acknowledge and thank our wonderful staff, both teaching and support staff, who are always focussed on providing the very best educational experience and setting for our students.

I wish all students and staff a most enjoyable holiday, filled with opportunities to participate in what brings you joy!  

Saint Brigid.
You were a woman of peace.
You brought harmony where there was conflict.
You brought light to the darkness.
You brought hope to the downcast.
May the mantle of your peace cover those who are troubled and anxious, and may peace be firmly rooted in our hearts and in our world.
Inspire us to act justly and to reverence all God has made.
Brigid you were a voice for the wounded and the weary.
Strengthen what is weak within us.
Calm us into a quietness that heals and listens.
May we grow each day into greater wholeness in mind, body and spirit.

Nicole Mangelsdorf
Principal