A Word from the Principal

Last week I was required to attend a Principal’s gathering on the East Coast.  Whilst the opportunity to gather at this busy time is difficult, it was a wonderful occasion to take some time to view the “dance” that is Term 4.  The information shared with us was around different initiatives that will unfold over the next few years.  

As part of one of the sessions, an analogy of our work as principals was that of a Ballroom dance, one being held in a most beautiful space, equipped with a balcony on which to view the dancers.  Often principals and leadership need to remove ourselves from the dancefloor and stand and observe from the balcony.  When you stand and look down at the dance, you become aware of details that you might not see if you are involved in the dancing.  This idea of changing the perspective is incredibly important for the work that we do.  Most of the time, we rush to do - rush right through the busyness of the work and sometimes this means we fail to see the details and the many intricacies involved in the steps and the interactions.

It was wonderful to meet up with my colleagues and to take the time to watch the sunrise over Maria Island.  In the moments of stillness, I was made very aware of God’s presence around me, in front of me and with me. The passage from the bible came unbidden - “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). In the “dance” of Term 4, a moment of stillness can be a luxury.

At that moment, I was very aware of God’s presence - all around me. The presence of the spirit isn’t just in the nature that we see but also in the kindness we experience. In Term 4 I see so many gifts of kindness - from staff to staff, from staff to students, from students to students…and from students to staff.  Such is the presence of God - it is in the interactions with all around us.

Taking the time to look from the balcony down over the dance floor, seeing the joy and kindness of the community, it is with some sadness that I have let the community know that I have made the decision to take leave in 2023. I have made this decision because I need to take the time to regain perspective - to step back and notice the details - before I recommence the “dance”.  To be still and present. The Catholic Education Office is working to ensure a handover and smooth transition for the incoming Acting Principal. I thank the College Leadership Team and the Board for their support and I know that this team will continue to work hard to support staff in delivering student outcomes. I look forward to returning to the College renewed and refreshed from this leave.