From the Principal

Acknowledging our teachers​

"When we see the face of a child, we think of the future. We think of their dreams about what they might become, and what they might accomplish."

Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu

Good teaching is like that! Finding opportunities for our students to shine is very much at the essence of a good education at John XXIII College. Last Friday we celebrated World Teachers’ Day. It has been held annually since 1994, and in some places around the world it is an important opportunity to reflect on the challenges teachers face as they follow their vocation, along with challenges facing adequate levels of education for all children. In 2018 World Teachers’ Day declares through its theme that the right to education means the right to a qualified teacher.  In Catholic education this right also demands that we are clear on our ‘why’.  We are child-focused and Christ-centred.

Pope Francis, in an audience with teachers in 2015, shared this encouragement:

“Teaching is a beautiful job, as it allows you to see the growth day-by-day of people entrusted to your care… A commitment of this type may inculcate apprehension, but remember that no teacher is ever alone, his or her work is shared with other colleagues and with all the education community to which they belong.”

Last week at our College Mass, some beautiful prayers were read by our staff which celebrated the important work of teachers all over the world. Acknowledgement was also given for the great work done by our very dedicated teachers and other staff at John XXIII College.

Thank you also to our students and parents many of whom take the time to recognise the efforts and talents of our teaching staff. Positive reinforcement is important for our students and equally vital for their teachers as they guide the learning process.

Robert Henderson

Principal