St Brigid

St Brigid's School

Special Character

St Brigid's School is a Catholic school which is fully integrated into the state system. The school is owned and governed (via representatives on the Board of Trustees) by the Catholic Bishop of Dunedin. All resourcing for the staffing and running of the school is provided by the State.

The Catholic character of the school is often referred to as the "special character" of the school. We strive to uphold and maintain this in all aspects of the school - in respect for all individuals, relationships with one another and in living the teachings of Jesus Christ. A reflection of this is the way in which the older children look after the younger children. Any new children and their families are very quickly made to feel welcome.

Saint Brigid

The school takes its name from Saint Brigid. She is regarded as the second Patron Saint of Ireland. Saint Brigid lived in the fifth century and founded the Abbey of Kildare. Her symbol is the sprig of oak. You will notice this portrayed in our school crest along with the Celtic Cross. The school's motto FIAT LUX IN MUNDO is 'Let there be light in the world' (Christ our Light). At the beginning of every school year we plant a tree in the school grounds in celebration of Saint Brigid's Day which is on the 1st of February.

Values

Each term the school focuses on one particular value which reflects the special character of the school and enhances relationships within our school community. These values include Respect, Self Motivation, Co-operation, Forgiveness, Responsibility and Acceptance.

Children seen by teachers and peers to be living these values are presented with a certificate of acknowledgement. Each fortnight two particularly deserving children are presented with a special values badge at school assembly.

Sacramental Programme

The sacramental programme is Parish/School based and is facilitated by the Parish Priest and the school's Director of Religious Studies. Parent meetings are held to assist parents and children taking part in the programme.

Parish Community

Father Gerard Aynsley is the Parish Priest for the South Dunedin Pastoral Area. This includes the churches of St Alphonsus, St Bernadette's, St Brigid's and St Patrick's. Father Gerard can be contacted at 26 Forbury Road, Dunedin.

Click here to visit the Parish Website.

External Review of Special Character

The New Zealand Catholic Education Office conducts a review of all Catholic Schools every three years to verify that appropriate systems are in place to deliver the Catholic Special Character dimensions. The following are extracts from our most recent review:

"St Brigid's School, Dunedin, is a well performing Catholic School. It is strongly supported by the parishes of St Brigid's and St Alphonsus, its Board of Trustees and school families."

"The school is a positive and encouraging place of learning."

"Children are taught to take responsibility for themselves and to care for others. They are also encouraged to be aware of social justice issues."

Young Vinnies

The Young Vinnies is a group affiliated to the St Vincent De Paul Society and is for young people who wish to commit their time, and talents to helping others. This group meets during school time and is actively involved in helping others in the community.

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