From the Principal

Educating for a faith and hope filled future

This year I have been part of a planning committee for the Jesuit and Companion Schools’ education conference. The positive theme of ‘educating for a faith filled future’ is particularly pertinent given the global challenges of the past few years. Leaders are dealers in hope as we seek to find a better world.

This week’s focus on wellness activities at the College was also relevant. Students sharing their stories at our Secondary assembly was very powerful as we reach out to ask RUOK? Looking out for other members of our school community is a hallmark of a good school.

Sometimes there can be uncertainty and anxiety due to change. The appointment process for a new Principal is underway and earlier this week I advised staff that Mrs Jessica Bouwman, Vice Principal, will commence a new role as Vice Principal of Ursula Frayne College in 2023. I have had many excellent discussions with Mrs Bouwman over the past few years as she has contemplated her next career opportunity. We congratulate her on this appointment and acknowledge her exceptional contribution to the College in Deputy Principal and Vice Principal roles.

Recently, I have had regular discussions with our College Council Chair, Dr Courtenay Harris, and other Council members as part of our leadership succession planning. There is the possibility of an Acting Principal or Vice Principal at the commencement of next year depending on the appointment timeline and notice periods required of successful applicants. The same situation occurred in 2015 prior to my appointment and the College managed the transition superbly. If the situation arises, it will be managed equally effectively in early 2023.

There has been recent attention in the media with respect to teacher vacancies in many schools. For the most part, our College receives many applications for advertised positions which is an acknowledgment of the reputation of our students, staff and families. Our current record enrolment applications is one indicator of how John XXIII College is ‘educating for a faith and hope filled future’. 

Robert Henderson

Principal