Principal News
I write to you from Cairns, at the Catholic Education Conference.
On Sunday, I joined 15 other Principals on a retreat at the Mercy Sisters retreat. We explored Pope Francis teaching on Laudato Si, and the impact that Humans are having on the Natural World. It centred on understanding that past, how our world has evolved. It was deeply spiritual and most important really prompted me to reflect on how our students get to experience the natural world. I look forward to bringing some of that back.
On Monday, I spent a day with Juan, and welcomed to KUKU YALANJI LAND
Juan invited us into his parents home, taught us his family's story, a story that involved missions and a baby hidden in a tree to ensure that she was not taken away. Juan’s story was beautiful in how he wanted to explain his story, understand the pain this causes and how he believes we can move to a better future, through understanding the connection to country First Nations people have.
He then took us out to the mud flaps where he taught us how to throw a spear and then took us out to find mud crabs. Just listening to him and how he understood the natural world. No text books, just learning through exploring and listening to his elders. His respect for family, pride in his story and commitment to the land will caused me to reflect on these cornerstones, and how I demonstrate these.
The conference yesterday centred on Synodality, with Vatican representatives speaking of the importance of coming together in mission. This is something we as a school are committed to, finding a way for our school and parish to come together in mission to provide hope and joy for our community.
Today I have heard from the federal minister for education, Jason Clare. He outlined and echoed challenges known in education but pushed that things aren’t all bad. He spoke of Fr Chris Riley, who left the legacy as “when you die, what you have done for yourself dies with you, what you do for others, lives on.” This really challenges how we can impact our students and their lives, we are so privileged to be able to
leave a lasting legacy. Our obligation is to make it positive.
Dr Steve Consentino, a family engagement went deep and challenged how we support our families. He spoke of the humanity in supporting families and students, not an event. That brings complexity, but also, great joy. His summary of what he has learned in schools, do well, be safe, be loved.
The privilege I have to attend these sessions inspire me to seek constant improvement to provide a school where this mantra can come to fruition.
Paul Sharp
Principal