Board of Governance

Welcome

Maria Haggett - Educator, Principal

It seems that our theme for the year 'Who is my neighbour?' is more poignant than ever. The question at the heart of our theme, from the parable of the Good Samaritan, challenges us to think of those beyond our inner circle. In a year where it would have been easy to wallow in our own isolation, I have witnessed students and staff show incredible care for each other in the most difficult of circumstances. They have also continued to raise awareness of what is happening more broadly and challenged us to think about the world they want to build beyond COVID. The leadership shown by our students in areas such as action for Climate Change, combatting period poverty and working towards reconciliation with local First Nations people has been nothing short of inspirational.

In another year of lockdowns, separation from loved ones and remote learning, we have never been more aware of the importance of the grace that our relationships bestow. Our teachers have longed for those incidental conversations in offices and hallways, which spark the imagination and give energy to our practice. Our students have missed each other and their teachers, and I know they long to be back in 2022 alongside each other in classrooms, Café Bene queues and in our beautiful grounds. All of this has me reflecting on what schools are. Mrs Feeney and I spent many long hours during Term 3, in the empty building that we call ‘school' - yet this is hardly what a school is. Without our students and staff, it is but an empty shell. So much of what we do is ephemeral and difficult to measure. We are more than the sum of our parts, for when we are together there is an energy that drives what we do. Though I am thankful that technology has allowed us to continue providing learning opportunities, it will never replace this energy - augment, yes but never replace.

It is with great appreciation that I acknowledge the work of the College Executive Team during 2021, particularly our Deputy Principal Mrs Julie Feeney and retiring Director of Development, Mr Tim Crowe. My thanks also to College Board Chair Mr Paul Kremer, and all of the Board Directors for going over and above to ensure the College is in a sound position into the future. Thank you also to education support staff, teachers, parents, carers and of course students for their wonderful welcome and extraordinary support in my first year at Mater Christi.