FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Term 4 - Week 2

Welcome to Week 2 Term 4,

For the last three days Trevor French and I had the privilege of attending the 2024 Catholic Schools NSW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Conference, hosted by our Diocese at the TREC.

What a privilege it was to attend a conference which provided a unique opportunity to advance my professional knowledge and skills, improve educational outcomes, and champion reconciliation among families and communities based on their improved understanding of culture.

I had the privilege to witness the rich cultural significance of the Aboriginal connection to land and the role it has in the spiritual, educational, cultural and economic wellbeing of all Aboriginal peoples. Our trip to Myall Creek, was both spiritual and moving.

I had the privilege of listening to authentic speakers, who displayed vulnerability and hope. Presentations ranged from Greg Inglis' story, to the culturally rich and locally responsive education of Jarjum College, Redfern.

Australia's educational history in regards to our indigenous students resonated with me throughout the conference, from cultural resistance to cultural insistence, from cultural awareness to cultural engagement. 

Monsignor Wilks summed up the feeling best - the cultural engagement and education of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students has gained "unstoppable momentum".

Have a great week.

John Clery

Principal