LEADERSHIP PROFILE
Meet the
Teacher
MS LEONIE RUSHBROOK
“My hopes for Ave Maria College is that every student feels that they belong and they are a valued member of our Ave family.” As the newly appointed Assistant Principal (Students and Engagement) Mrs Leonie Rushbrook has smoothly transitioned to the College in 2021, getting to know the students and families at Ave. In addition to this leadership role, Leonie also teachers Year 11 Mathematics. Leonie is passionate about ensuring all students are known and cared about, both academically and in their general wellbeing. This is a passion she has developed in her previous roles at four other Catholic schools including CBC St Kilda, De La Salle College, Genazzano College and Emmanuel College (both campuses). With a broad range of Catholic school experience, Leonie has held leadership positions including Mathematics Coordinator, Curriculum Coordinator, Member of Board, Head of School, and Campus Pastoral Coordinator. We are lucky to have such a wonderful leader and experienced educator join our College staff.
How have you found your first year at the College?
best outcomes are achieved through collaboration with the hardworking teams that I lead or am a part of. Leadership provides the opportunity to ensure that all voices are a part of any process, thus empowering all who contribute.
I have received the warmest of welcomes from the whole community. Despite all four lockdowns, the hard work of staff and families to ensure that every student was cared for was commendable. I was very proud of the wellbeing and academic support we continued to offer.
Message to the graduating class of 2021? You are all on a journey, ready and equipped to thrive in the wider community. Take your Franciscan foundations and be open to all opportunities where you can create a just and inclusive society. Challenge yourself to always to be the best version of yourself.
What inspired you to become a teacher? From a very young age I helped other students in the class with reading and Mathematics. I have always enjoyed sharing my love of learning. Seeing the smiles on faces as understanding is achieved through positive struggle continues to energise me.
What are your future hopes for Ave Maria College? My hope for Ave Maria College is that every student feels that they belong and that they are a valued member of our Ave family. Through acceptance of self and others, each person can contribute to making our College the best place to thrive and learn in.
What do you enjoy about leadership? Leadership offers me the ability to serve the community and to improve outcomes for all within that community. The
Thank you for your time Leonie.
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