Principal's Message

Dear Parents,

2024 PRINCIPAL CONFERENCE

Together Leading Learning

Nau mai, haere mai, greetings and welcome!

Last week I had the privilege of attending the Trans-Tasman Principals Conference in New Zealand with principals from all over New Zealand and Australia, including principal colleagues from Sydney Catholic Schools. The conference, took place in Ōtautahi, Christchurch and brought together educational leaders focusing on the theme TOGETHER Leading Learning.

The te reo Māori phrase accompanying the conference title, Tau Mai! Tau Tahi!, underscored the cultural significance of hosting this event in Ōtautahi, Christchurch. The conference delivered an inspiring programme with many opportunities for learning, networking, and making meaningful connections. 

One of the incredible speakers was Gilbert Enoka, the New Zealand All Blacks Rugby Union Coach and a leading Mental Skills Coach. Not only has he managed an elite sports team, he has made a huge impact on the mental health industry, providing skills to help people improve their performance at an individual and collaborative capacity. He spoke of the challenges and hurdles that we face in our daily lives, how to manage stress and how he incorporates his philosophies into his daily life. Gilbert emphasised the importance of leading with compassion, honesty, initiative, and trustworthiness, and fostering a love of learning and curiosity. 

" To handle yourself, use your head.

To handle others, use your heart"

Gilbert Enoka

Iain Taylor was another inspiring speaker who has been teaching for 37 years, with 34 years as a leader. He is a published author on intentional school transformation and turnaround. He shared his experience of innovative, flexible learning programmes, and how property, the physical environment, the energy and the environment of a school, can contribute to more effective student engagement, happiness, learning and achievement. 

Another notable speaker at the conference was Sophie Renton, a social researcher and generational expert who brought a wealth of knowledge and passion to her presentation. She discussed factors disrupting the future of education, the importance of leading thriving intergenerational teams, and the development of leaders. Sophie emphasised that understanding the context in which leaders operate today is crucial for mapping the path forward.

I have come back feeling motivated and inspired, ready to continue to support our students’ education with fresh perspectives for the future.

Kia haumaruto noho - Keep safe

Kia atawhai - Be kind

CONGRATULATIONS TO MRS SMITHSON

I am thrilled to announce that Mrs Smithson has been appointed as the St Aidan's substantive Religious Education Coordinator as Miss Birchall has decided to continue her teaching career in Newcastle. The St Aidan's community joins me in congratulating Mrs Smithson on her appointment.

Have a blessed, safe and relaxing break with your loved ones.

Rachel Baker

Principal 

Have a lovely week.

God bless.

Rachel Baker 

Principal

For more information about St Aidan's Catholic Primary School please visit our website http://stamaroubra.syd.catholic.edu.au